In this day and age where our screens hold the power of our vision, younger people have become more prone to wearing glasses. Most people think that certain diets or exercises can improve your vision and give clarity, however, experts disagree.
Dr Parul Sharma, Director & HOD, Eye Care, Ophthalmology, Max Hospital, Gurugram, told IndiaToday.In, that while some exercises may help with eye muscle coordination or relaxation, they don’t address underlying vision issues or improve visual acuity significantly.
“Vision is primarily determined by the shape of the eye and the health of its components like the cornea, lens, and retina. So, relying solely on diet or exercises to enhance vision is indeed a myth,” said Dr Parul Sharma.
While there is no specific diet or exercise regimen to directly sharpen vision, maintaining good eyesight involves adopting healthy habits.
Reduce screen time
Dr Sharma suggested that prolonged exposure to digital screens can strain the eyes and lead to symptoms like eye fatigue, dryness, and blurred vision.
Taking regular breaks from screen time allows the eyes to rest and refocus, reducing strain and minimising the risk of developing digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome.
“The 20-20-20 rule is a helpful guideline, suggesting taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes of screen use,” said Dr Parul Sharma.
Prioritise rest
Dr Dheeraj Gupta, Senior Consultant, Ophthalmology, Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram said that the best way to improve your eyesight is giving it enough rest.
“Ensure your eyes get sufficient rest by aiming to sleep for 7 to 8 hours each night. If sleep is elusive, try to keep your eyes closed to promote relaxation,” said Dr Gupta.
Balanced diet
Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining overall eye health. Certain nutrients, such as vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for eye health.
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) have developed a new method to detect antibiotic-resistant, disease-causing bacteria.
Antibiotic resistance remains one of the biggest challenges for medical researchers as bacteria E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus – have caused over a million deaths and the numbers are expected to rise.
In a new study published in ACS Sensors, the team of researchers detailed the development of a rapid diagnosis tool that uses a luminescent paper-based platform to detect the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
“Generally, the doctor diagnoses the patient and gives them medicine. The patient then takes it for two to three days before realising that the medicine is not working and goes back to the doctor. Even diagnosing that the bacteria is antibiotic-resistant from blood or urine tests takes time. We wanted to reduce that time-to-diagnosis,” Professor Uday Maitra, Department of Organic Chemistry, IISc, said in a statement.
The bacteria use two techniques to evade antibiotics. In one, it evolves, and can recognise and eject the medicine out of its cell, and the other way is by producing an enzyme called β-lactamase, which hydrolyses the β-lactam ring – a key structural component of common antibiotics like penicillin and carbapenem – rendering the medication ineffective.
The IISc and JNCASR team devised an innovative method for detecting antibiotic-resistant bacteria using a supramolecular hydrogel matrix containing biphenyl-4-carboxylic acid (BCA) and terbium cholate (TbCh). Terbium is known for its luminescent properties, making it useful in fluorescence studies and other applications.
When BCA is linked to the antibiotic’s cyclic [β-lactam] ring, the hydrogel emits green fluorescence upon UV light exposure.
The fluorescence remains masked until the presence of β-lactamase enzyme, found in antibiotic-resistant bacteria, unmasks the sensitiser BCA, leading to green emission.
To make the technology affordable, the team collaborated with Adiuvo Diagnostics to create the Illuminate Fluorescence Reader, a portable device with a paper-based hydrogel.
This cost-effective solution successfully detected antibiotic-resistant bacteria in urine samples within two hours during initial tests with healthy volunteers.
The researchers now plan to collaborate with hospitals for further testing on patient samples.
Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day is observed annually on February 14 to spread awareness around CHDs or congenital heart defects which are present at birth and can range from mild to severe. These heart defects can affect the structure of a baby’s heart and the way it works. From impacting the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, developmental delays, to long-term health risks such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and stroke, congenital heart defects can cause a range of health issues. In India, approximately 2 lakh children are born with congenital heart disease every year. Around one-fifth of these suffer from critical heart disease.
Congenital defects can occur due to genetic factors, environment factors like exposure to toxins, mother’s diet and health condition or certain medications taken during critical periods of foetal development which could impact formation of organs and systems in the unborn baby.
Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day date
Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day is observed on February 14 every year. The day is promoted extensively by various organizations, including the Paediatric Congenital Heart Association and the American Heart Association, to raise awareness about congenital heart defects and advocate for affected individuals and families.
Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day significance
Congenital heart defects need to be addressed immediately. Early detection and treatment enable improving prognosis and reducing complications for individuals born with congenital heart defects (CHDs). Heightened awareness around congenital heart defects and advocacy efforts can help increase funding for research and driving advancements in treatment options.
Types of congenital heart defects
Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV): Bicuspid aortic valve is a congenital heart condition characterised by the aortic valve having two cusps instead of the typical three, potentially leading to valve dysfunction and other cardiac complications.
Ventricular septal defects (VSD): Ventricular septal defects are congenital heart abnormalities characterized by an abnormal opening in the wall that separates the heart’s lower chambers, leading to mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood.
Atrial septal defects (ASD): Atrial septal defects are congenital heart defects characterized by an abnormal opening in the wall between the heart’s upper chambers, leading to the mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood.
While some heart defects can be treated easily, others may require surgical intervention or other treatment. Children with CCHD need surgery or treatment within their first year of life to survive and lead a healthy life.
Over the last few years, one of the most debatable topics in cancer research has been whether regular exercise can significantly lower cancer risk.
The answer has remained complicated. However, a recent study, published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine, offered a glimpse of how regular physical activity affects the risk of prostate cancer, one of the top ten most common cancers in India.
Researchers from Sweden showed that men with cardiorespiratory fitness improved by 3% or more annually over five years and, on average, were 35% less likely to develop prostate cancer than men whose cardiorespiratory fitness declined by 3% annually.
Cardiorespiratory fitness is a measure of how well the heart and lungs deliver oxygen to the muscles during exercise.
The men took at least two fitness tests, which involved pedalling on a stationary bike and estimating the volume of oxygen they used during vigorous exercise based on their heart rate.
A higher volume indicated a greater fitness level. The tests were done years apart though the exact gap varied by participant.
According to the co-author of the study, Dr Kate Bolam, “Men who are generally more health-conscious are also good at going to the doctor when they are called for their prostate cancer screening tests.”
Increased testing results in more diagnoses, even for men whose cancers may never advance. Prostate cancer cells can coexist in the prostate throughout one’s lifetime without posing a threat.
Therefore, many men who don’t undergo testing and don’t exhibit symptoms might remain unaware of their prostate cancer.
The researchers recommended finding an activity that is enjoyable, and starting with it immediately. The physical activity could be playing with children or grandchildren, going for a walk or joining a recreational sports league.
Consistency is key, which is why it’s important to find activity that doesn’t feel like a chore.
“Everyone has a chance to do something that’s really cost-efficient here to decrease their risk of prostate cancer,” Dr Bolam said. “And that’s something that is wholly in our control .
Dental health, a seemingly ignored department in the world of hygiene, helps in maintaining our overall well-being. Toothaches which refer to pain in or around your tooth can cause disruptions in your everyday activities.
Some might experience minor toothaches from gum irritation, but there are cases of severity that need professional dental treatment.
In many ways, though rare, toothaches can be indicators of infection in the mouth that can spread to other parts of the body, including the brain and the bloodstream.
However, the cause of toothache varies from person to person. On National Toothache Day, understand the possible reasons and expert-backed solutions for toothache.
REASONS FOR TOOTHACHE
Dr Bhumika Madan, Senior Consultant in Dentistry at Aakash Healthcare, said that the most common types of toothaches result from tooth decay due to cavity formation, brought about by erosion of enamel by bacterial acid.
“Maintaining oral hygiene-brushing twice daily, daily flossing and using fluoride toothpaste are important in decay prevention. Limiting intake of sugary and acidic foods can prevent aches,” Dr Bhumika Madan told IndiaToday.In.
Tooth Injury
If you’ve been biting hard foods or engaging in sports without proper mouth protection, then injury-induced toothaches can be experienced.
Precautionary measures such as using mouthguards during contact sports and refraining from biting on hard objects can mitigate the risks of harming your teeth.
Dr Bhumika Madan advised that a quick dental check-up after getting injured can help evaluate the extent of the damage. Corrective actions can then be taken to reduce the pain.
Gum Disease
Gum disease, an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth, causes massive discomfort. Consistent oral care such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings, can prevent gum disease.
Bruxism
Toothaches resulting from bruxism, an activity in which teeth grinding or clenching is witnessed, can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and tooth sensitivity.
You can the toothaches from bruxism by managing stress, avoiding stimulants before bedtime, altering sleeping positions, and using mouthguards.
Bruxism can lead to TMJ dysfunctions (Temporomandibular joint dysfunction) a condition that connects your jaws joints and the surrounding muscles. Jaw clenching and teeth grinding during high-stress periods can lead to tooth discomfort as well pain in area connecting the jaw to the skull.
SOLUTIONS FOR TOOTHACHE
There are numerous methods to make sure the pain subsides. This ranges from prescription drugs to natural cures. However, nothing tops maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent dental issues.
Rinse with salt water
An effective way to ease pain and reduce inflammation is to rinse your mouth with salt water.
Medication for pain relief
Acetaminophen and ibuprofen, two over-the-counter pain medications, can help reduce toothache pain and discomfort. Make sure to take medication as directed by your dentist.
Pain management gels
Over-the-counter pain management gels are available and can be applied to the affected area. If the pain persists even after applying it for two days, it is time to see a dentist.
Cold compress
A cold compress can make the affected area less painful and reduce swelling.
Annual dental examination
Annual dental visits are a good way to stay ahead of any potential pain and discomfort. Remember that dental health is vital for physical fitness, so don’t ignore it.
Women with hormonal imbalances linked to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), complex menopause and excessive weight gain during pregnancy are likely to develop obesity with elevated levels of blood sugar and cholesterol. These are the findings of a study, published in Cell Metabolism, which advocates screening of these markers early on in a woman’s reproductive span.
According to Dr Richa Chaturvedi, Senior Consultant, Endocrinology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, the study has made it clear how important it is to address hormonal imbalances, which can be done easily with early life lifestyle corrections and medication.
Why are women with PCOS at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and cholesterol?
This is because of hormonal imbalances. In PCOS, women have higher-than-normal male hormone (androgen) levels, which can interfere with ovulation, impacting menstruation cycles, and disrupt glucose and insulin metabolism, which can eventually trigger diabetes.
Unregulated, hormone fluctuations and imbalances in the early years of menstruation can worsen menopause symptoms later in life, lead to excessive weight gain during pregnancy which may persist in later years, increase bad cholesterol and so on.
That’s why it is important for women with reproductive health issues to watch out for insulin resistance and inflammation early so that they can avoid chronic diabetes and cardiovascular diseases later.
Which hormone marker is most bothersome for women with PCOS?
PCOS involves higher levels of testosterone levels, which can directly contribute to insulin resistance. This means cells in the body become less responsive to the effects of insulin. To compensate, the pancreas starts overproducing insulin in an effort to lower blood sugar. Over the years, all that excess insulin stresses out the pancreatic beta cells that make it, and they can eventually become damaged or exhausted. Once these beta cells fail, insulin production drops and blood glucose levels start to spiral, resulting in Type 2 diabetes.
How does hormonal imbalance impact belly fat?
The higher testosterone and other hormonal fluctuations of PCOS encourage visceral fat accumulation, what we call belly fat. This releases fatty acids and inflammatory compounds that worsen insulin resistance and increase the diabetes risk even further.
Detecting and managing the early warning signs, like elevated testosterone and blood sugar levels, are crucial. Lifestyle interventions targetting insulin sensitivity and weight management are much-needed.
What are some of the major reproductive milestones that can impact a woman’s long-term health?
1. Onset of puberty/first period: An early period cycle (before age 12) signals faster maturation and hormone changes, which increase risks of reproductive cancers and chronic diseases later on.
2. Pregnancy: Excess weight gain during pregnancy makes it harder to lose weight afterwards and raises risks of gestational diabetes/high blood pressure. These increase chances of developing Type 2 diabetes and heart disease post-pregnancy.
3. Perimenopause/menopause: Hormone shifts leading up to menopause may indicate higher risk of heart disease or osteoporosis over time.
4. Conditions like PCOS or endometriosis: These reproductive health disorders involve hormone imbalances that can trigger wider inflammatory and metabolic changes. They raise risks of numerous health issues down the road.
So what signs and symptoms should women look out for?
Watch out for shifts in menstrual cycles, such as cycles shortening or lengthening dramatically or becoming irregular after previously being regular.
The development of many new and intensified premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms can also signal changing hormone patterns. Rapid weight gain that is difficult to control, excess facial or body hair, severe acne or thinning scalp hair may indicate PCOS.
Worsening reproductive symptoms over time, such as a progression of cramping and pelvic pain or the observation via ultrasound of small ovarian cysts, warrant medical attention as well.
Maintaining high productivity at work isn’t just about efficient planning and execution but also about a structured and healthy diet that can fuel your body right and keep it energised for long hours. Indulging in processed foods and high-calorie sugary treats can provide a temporary high but can cause energy crash in later hours. Not giving enough thought about what you are eating in a day, can drain your energy and diminish your productivity. There is no dearth of easy-to-make and healthy snacks that can help you stay focussed as well as provide sustained energy. The ideal workplace snacks must include probiotics, protein, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, healthy fats and complex carbs to nourish your body.
“Balancing a busy 9-to-5 lifestyle can often lead to neglected meals and compromised health. Don’t let a packed schedule drain your energy. Kickstart your day with the right fuel for maximum productivity. From buttermilk’s hydration to the energy boost of bananas, discover how these simple, nutritious choices can transform your workday,” writes Nutritionist Lovneet Batra in her recent Instagram post.
HEALTHY 9 TO 5 SNACKS
Batra shares a list of healthy foods you can munch or consume when the hunger pangs strike.
1. Buttermilk
When to have: Mid-morning, around 10-11 am
Benefits and nutrients: A natural probiotic, rich in whey protein, buttermilk keeps energy levels high and stable, satisfies hunger, and promotes optimal hydration
Why it works: Buttermilk helps counteract the dehydration often neglected during busy work hours
2. Mint tea
When to have: Post lunch, to avoid the afternoon slump
Benefits and nutrients: Mint tea aids digestion and combats acidity, which can be exacerbated by excessive consumption of tea or coffee
Why it works: Mint tea provides a refreshing lift and supports gut health, crucial for maintaining focus and preventing discomfort
3. Banana
When to have: Mid-morning or as an afternoon snack
Benefits and nutrients: Banana maintains mental alertness and physical energy. It is packed with potassium and natural sugars
Why it works: Offers a quick, nutritious energy boost without the crash, supporting sustained concentration and performance
4. Roasted chana
When to have: Perfect for mid-afternoon or as a pre-lunch snack
Benefits and nutrients: High in fibre and protein, roasted chana supports sustained energy levels and satiety
Why it works: A healthy, crunchy snack and keeps you full, stabilizes blood sugar and preventing overeating
5. Pistachios
When to have: Ideal for later-afternoon snack
Benefits and nutrients: Loaded with healthy fats, protein and antioxidants, pistachios support heart health and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Why it works: A guilt-free treat that satisfies your hunger while providing essential nutrients for long-term health.
Incorporate these foods into your 9-5 lifestyle for enhanced energy and focus, and overall health. Remember small changes can lead to significant benefits in how you feel and perform at work, adds Batra.
In winter, practicing Yoga can be particularly beneficial for managing insomnia and sleep disorders. The cold weather and shorter days may disrupt sleep patterns for many individuals, making it essential to adopt strategies that promote relaxation and better sleep.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa, suggested some straightforward and practical yoga poses and techniques to help alleviate insomnia and improve sleep during the winter months –
Start by kneeling on the mat, sit back on your heels, and extend your arms forward with your forehead resting on the ground. This pose helps to calm the mind, relieve stress, and gently stretch the spine, promoting a sense of relaxation conducive to better sleep.
1 .Child’s Pose (Balasana):
Start by kneeling on the mat, sit back on your heels, and extend your arms forward with your forehead resting on the ground. This pose helps to calm the mind, relieve stress, and gently stretch the spine, promoting a sense of relaxation conducive to better sleep.
2. Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani):
Lie on your back and place your legs up against a wall, keeping your arms by your sides. This pose promotes blood circulation, relaxes the nervous system, and is known for its calming effect on the mind. It’s particularly helpful for individuals dealing with insomnia.
3. Corpse Pose (Savasana):
Lie flat on your back with your arms by your sides and palms facing up. Close your eyes and focus on your breath. Savasana helps in releasing tension from the body and calming the mind, preparing you for a restful sleep.
4. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana):
Sit with your legs extended in front of you and hinge at your hips to reach for your toes. This forward bend stretches the spine and hamstrings, promoting a soothing effect on the nervous system. It is beneficial for easing stress and anxiety.
4. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana):
Sit with your legs extended in front of you and hinge at your hips to reach for your toes. This forward bend stretches the spine and hamstrings, promoting a soothing effect on the nervous system. It is beneficial for easing stress and anxiety.
5. Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana):
Sit comfortably and use your right thumb to close off your right nostril. Inhale through the left nostril, then close it with your right ring finger. Open and exhale through the right nostril. This pranayama technique helps balance the left and right hemispheres of the brain, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
Lie on your back, bringing the soles of your feet together and allowing your knees to fall open. This pose opens the hips and groin, releasing tension from these areas. It’s a gentle pose that encourages relaxation and can be beneficial for individuals with sleep disorders.
7. Deep Breathing (Pranayama):
Practice deep, rhythmic breathing to calm the nervous system. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a moment, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this process several times, focusing on the breath and letting go of any tension.
8. Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana):
Stand with your feet hip-width apart, hinge at your hips, and reach for the floor. This forward bend stretches the entire back of the body, promoting relaxation and relieving stress. It also helps calm the mind and improve focus.
Remember to practice these Yoga poses and techniques consistently to experience their full benefits. Incorporating them into your routine, especially during the winter months, can contribute to better sleep and overall well-being.
The viruses in the gut are crucial in the stress management
The researchers saw a change in the composition of viruses in the gut of chronic stressed mice
Personalised medicine for stress-related disorders might become possible in the future
While viruses are typically viewed as harmful to health, a subset of viruses residing in the gut might play a crucial role in stress regulation.
According to a new study, this discovery contributes to the growing body of evidence indicating that interactions between the gut and the brain influence human behaviour.
This research potentially paves the way for treatments targeting viruses within our bodies for stress-related conditions
While previous studies have primarily focused on the changes in gut bacteria composition in response to stress, this new research sheds light on the “virome,” an area that has been largely unexplored in understanding its interaction with bacteria and its impact on stress-related health and diseases.
Dr Nathaniel Ritz from the APC Microbiome Ireland research centre at University College Cork emphasised the potential of targeting the virome to alleviate the effects of stress.
The study, led by Ritz and his colleagues, specifically focused on a subset of viruses known as bacteriophages, which infect and replicate alongside bacteria.
Chronic social stress exposure in mice resulted in alterations in the composition of both the viruses and bacteria in their guts. Subsequent experiments involved harvesting viruses from the faeces of unstressed, healthy animals and transplanting them into mice subjected to chronic social stress.
The findings, published in Nature Microbiology, suggested that these transplants reduced stress hormone levels and mitigated depression- and anxiety-like behaviours in the mice.
While further research is required to determine the potential benefits of virus transplants for humans with stress-related conditions, this study provides early evidence that gut viruses are involved in stress response, and manipulating them could hold therapeutic promise.
Professor John Cryan, who led the research at APC Microbiome Ireland, said that the variability of virome composition in individuals, suggests that personalised medicine approaches for stress-related disorders might become possible in the future.
He highlighted the crucial role of some viruses in keeping harmful bacteria in check, especially during stressful periods.
Cervical cancer, a significant health concern for women in India, is primarily caused by high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
This cancer forms in the cervix, the entrance of a woman’s uterus to the vagina. When a high-risk HPV enters the cervix, via sexual contact, it can cause dysplasia, the growing and spreading of abnormal cells.
Fortunately, the advent of HPV vaccines has provided a powerful tool in the fight against this disease. In India, several vaccines are available to prevent HPV-associated cancers and genital warts.
Dr Tanaya Narendra, known as ‘Dr Cuterus’ on social media, spoke about the importance of taking the HPV vaccine.
“More than 90% of all cervical cancer cases are linked to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), and since 2006 we’ve had a vaccine against HPV. A simple shot can protect you from the second most common cancer in Indian women, why not take it?” Dr Tanaya Narendra told IndiaToday.In.
CERVICAL CANCER VACCINES, COSTS AND AGE GROUPS
The most well-known vaccine is Gardasil 9, which offers protection against nine types of HPV that are responsible for a majority of HPV-related cancers.
The vaccine is approved for use in both males and females aged 9 to 45 years. As of the latest information, Gardasil 9 is priced at Rs 10,850 per dose in India.
Another vaccine, Gardasil, targets four strains of HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18, and has been licenced for use in India since 2008. It is commercially available for Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000 per dose.
Cervavac is the first Indian-made HPV vaccine by the Serum Institute of India. Approved for girls and boys aged between 9 and 26, Cervavac is priced relatively lower than its international counterparts, with a two-dose vial available for Rs 4,000, making it Rs 2,000 per dose.
This vaccine has shown high efficacy in preventing HPV infection, precancerous lesions, and cervical cancer, particularly against HPV types 16 and 18.
HPV VACCINATION IN INDIA
The Indian government has taken steps to make these vaccines more accessible. States such as Punjab, Sikkim, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra have announced free HPV vaccination programs for school girls in specific districts as part of pilot projects.
Moreover, the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) recommended the introduction of the HPV vaccine into the universal immunization program, targeting adolescent girls in the 9-14 age group with routine introduction at nine years of age.
While HPV vaccines are recommended for boys and girls starting from the age of 9, the ideal candidates for vaccination are those who have not yet been exposed to the virus, typically before they become sexually active.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced, during her interim Budget 2024-25 speech in Parliament, that the government encourages girls aged 9 to 14 to get vaccinated against cervical cancer.
