Dementia: Brisk walking cuts down risk by more than 50%, finds study

 (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news)

01. Dementia can be prevented by making some lifestyle changes

Dementia is a syndrome that leads to deterioration in cognitive function. It is an umbrella term which includes a number of health ramifications that affect memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capacity, language, and judgment.

The seventh leading cause of death among all diseases, dementia can be prevented by brisk walking, a study has found and has generated a new hope around the management and treatment of this health complication.

02. ​What does the study say?

A new research study published in the JAMA Neurology, has found a link between daily step count and incidence of dementia.

"The findings in this study suggest that accumulating more steps per day just under the popular threshold of 10 000 steps per day and performing steps at higher intensity may be associated with lower risk of dementia onset," the researchers of the study have said.

03. The study was based on more than 78,000 adults

This cohort based study was done on 78,430 adults in the UK of which 35040 were male and the rest were females.

The study took into account incidental steps which is less than 40 steps per minute, purposeful steps which is 40 steps per minute and peak 30 minute cadence which is mean steps per minute recorded for the 30 highest, not necessarily consecutive, minutes in a day.

04. What is the ideal step count?

As per the researchers, brisk walking between 3,800 and 9,800 steps is ideal to reduce the risk of dementia.

The study found that participants between the ages of 40 and 79 years of age who walked 9,826 steps daily were 50% less likely to develop dementia within seven years.

The researchers also found that people who walked with purpose, which covered 40 steps per minute, could actually reap the most benefits with just 6,315 steps. These people could cut down the risk of dementia by 57%.

People who walked 3,800 steps per day reduced the risk of dementia by 25%.

“It is a brisk walking activity, like a power walk,” study coauthor Borja del Pozo Cruz, an adjunct associate professor at the University of Southern Denmark in Odense, Denmark, and senior researcher in health sciences for the University of Cadiz in Spain told CNN.

05. ​It's a godsend for sedentary individuals

Usually people who have a sitting-mode life hesitate to embark on the walking journey with the apprehension that walking is then beneficial when the step count goes above 10,000 steps.

Debunking this myth, the researchers have given a new reason to start walking. Walking just 40% of the 10k steps rule, can drop the risk of dementia by 25%. The more you walk, the lower is your risk for dementia.

06. ​Prevalence of dementia

As per the WHO estimates, currently more than 55 million people live with dementia worldwide, and there are nearly 10 million new cases every year.

According to a Lancet study, about 153 million people will have dementia by 2050. The study has said that potential risk factors like smoking, obesity, and high blood sugar might drive the health complication in 7 million of these cases.

"We estimated that the number of people with dementia would increase from 57·4 (95% uncertainty interval 50·4–65·1) million cases globally in 2019 to 152·8 (130·8–175·9) million cases in 2050," the Lancet study says.

07. ​Symptoms of dementia

The common symptoms of dementia are:

·      forgetfulness

·      losing track of time

·      feeling lost even in familiar places

·      confusion

·      difficulty in communication

·      requiring assistance even for doing basic chores

·      behavioural changes

·      difficulty in walking

08. Walk can also be an indicator of dementia

Did you know that walking style is a potential indicator of the onset of dementia. A research study has found that people above 65 years of age who walk 5% slower or more each while also showing declining cognitive function are more likely to develop dementia.

The study published in JAMA Network is based on a group of Americans over 65 and Australians over 70 years of age. The participants were observed for 7 years and during this time they were asked to take cognitive tests and were assessed.

From BP to BMI, these 5 numbers determine your heart health

  (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news)

01 Heart diseases claim millions of lives annually worldwide

The heart is one of the most delicate organs of the body and is associated with the highest risk. Very often we come across terms like heart attack, cardiac arrest, blockage, cardiac attack and similar terms.

02 We love from the heart, but we neglect it the most!

Heart is the most talked about human body organ. Be it literature, poetry, a narration or a tale, we do talk about our heart, but when it comes to taking care of it we either lack proper knowledge or else ignore it completely.

Heart is the organ that keeps the body running. Without a healthy heart, it is almost impossible for a human body to function properly.

So if we can love from the heart, we should love the heart too!

03 ​Blood pressure

Among the 5 vital numbers which determine heart health, the first ranker is the blood pressure number. Medically, blood pressure is the force of the blood against the arteries. A typical blood pressure number comprises a systolic number and a diastolic number. Depending on the blood pressure of an individual it can be determined whether the person is having a high blood pressure or a lower blood pressure. The normal blood pressure is 120/80.

A blood pressure more than the normal range is considered to be lethal for the heart. It poses a greater risk for the heart as such high blood pressure puts a strain on the heart and the arteries while pumping the blood. This may weaken the heart in due course of time.

04 ​Body mass index

Yes, the weight and body mass index of an individual is directly related to heart health. This is the reason why health experts always advise us to keep a check on our weight and not let it cross the threshold.

A body mass index of more than 25 is considered to be overweight and needs to be brought under control in order to ensure a normal heart health.

05 ​Blood sugar level

You wonder how blood sugar level affects your heart? High blood sugar level damages the blood vessel and the specific nerves which help in the functioning of the heart.

Due to high blood sugar level a patient is also likely to develop conditions like high blood pressure which further elevates the risk for heart.

 

IIT Madras researchers develop AI tool for ‘Personalized Cancer Diagnosis’

 (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news)

At the same time when cancer is claiming close to 2 million lives globally and is accountable for one in six deaths, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT Madras) have come up with an AI-backed tool to predict cancer-causing genes.
Known as PIVOT, this tool has been created by a group of researchers led by Prof. Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean (Global Engagement) and Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, Dr. Karthik Raman; Associate Professor, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences and a Core Member, Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (RBCDSAI), and Ms. Malvika Sudhakar, a Research Scholar, an official statement says.

How does PIVOT function?

The AI prediction model has been built for three different types of cancer including Breast Invasive Carcinoma, Colon Adenocarcinoma and Lung Adenocarcinoma.

10 big dilemmas when it comes to spotting COVID symptoms

The researchers claim, the mechanism behind the prediction of cancerous genes is based on a model that utilizes information on mutations, expression of genes, and copy number variation in genes and perturbations in the biological network due to an altered gene expression.

 The tool is based on a machine learning model that classifies genes as tumour suppressor genes, oncogenes or neutral genes. The tool was able to successfully predict both the existing oncogenes and tumour-suppressor genes like TP53, and PIK3CA, among others, and new cancer-related genes such as PRKCA, SOX9 and PSMD4, an official statement from the institute says.

 Cancer is an uncontrolled growth of cells that can occur due to mutations in oncogenes or by tumor suppressor genes or both. Since all mutations do not necessarily result in cancer, therefore, it is important to identify genes that are causing cancer to devise appropriate personalized cancer treatment strategies, the researchers have said.

 "Although there are tools available to identify personalized cancer genes, they use unsupervised learning and predict based on presence and absence of mutations in cancer-related genes. This study, however, is the first one to use supervised learning and takes into account the functional impact of mutations while making predictions," the institute has said.

 The team is also working on a list of personalized cancer-causing genes that can help in identifying the suitable drug for patients based on their personalized cancer profile, the institute adds.

 

Summer nutrition tips for people suffering from diabetes

 (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news)

Improper hydration affects the blood sugar level

Summer puts many off their health tracks. Due to the heat waves, people often resort to having lots of fluids; what disturbs the health pattern of many is the consumption of carbonated drinks and unhealthy processed foods to quench the thirst and hunger pangs.

In many other cases, people are not able to compensate for the loss of water which happens due to the heat and get dehydrated.

Improper hydration affects the blood sugar level to a large extent and this is why diabetics need to watch their diet during the summers.

Sweet juices should be avoided

It is difficult to avoid a glass of fruit juice when you are outside in the heat. But you need to understand that having sugar loaded drinks will bring you a temporary respite from heat, but it won't give you the nutrition that your body needs. Juices are devoid of fibres too.

It is advisable to carry a bottle of water when going out during summer season.

Eat more fibres

Diabetics are specially advised to include more fibre in their food. This is because fibres slow down the release of sugar into the bloodstream and will prevent blood glucose spikes.

Eating fibre rich food will also keep you full and prevent cravings.

Mangoes should be eaten in moderation

As per a health journal, "mango contains natural sugar, which can contribute to increased blood sugar levels. However, its supply of fiber and antioxidants may help minimize its overall blood sugar impact."

Therefore, if you are diabetic person, you need to consume mangoes in moderation.

Avoid eating too much mango at a time.

Keep yourself hydrated

Always carry a water bottle with you. Keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. Dip in water content is sure to impact the blood sugar level.

Hydration keeps the blood sugar level low and flushes out extra toxins from the bloodstream.

​Check the glycemic index (GI) of foods

Since this is the season of mangoes, you need to be careful with the rate of consumption. Mangoes should be definitely eaten in moderation, and so will other foods. Before eating any fruit, do not forget to check the GI level.

Try variation in foods

Try to have more variations in your food. Instead of having the same platter, tweak it a bit to allow more water-rich food to get into your body.

For example, you can replace your evening snacks with a bowl full of cucumber or slices of watermelon. Since 90% of these fruits are composed of water, it is very beneficial to have these in your diet.

​What else should you do during the summer?

If you use insulin, store it in a cooler place. You should also keep your glucose meter and test strips at normal temperature. Heat can damage these.

 

Foods that induce happiness and improve mood

  (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news)

Organic foods are not scientifically engineered to match your taste

Food is known to put a tremendous impact on the overall mood of a person. A happy, satisfied, filled and healthy stomach is as important as a functioning brain for a human being. Hence, one should not just eat food for the sake of survival; instead one should focus on having healthy food.

As per Clinical Neuroscientist Psychiatrist, Daniel Amen, "One of the seven neuroscience secrets to happiness is to enjoy the real happy foods (and beverages) that will make you feel better, not just in the moment but for the long run."

Experts say feel-good or comfort foods like pizza and ice cream give you only a moment of happiness. But, foods which are actually embedded with nutrients that trigger the happiness chemicals and hormones of the body will have a long term lasting happiness.

Organic foods are not scientifically engineered to match your taste, they grow with nutrients loaded within them which deal with the human body mechanism in a health-improving manner.

Seasonal fruits and berries

Organic colorful fruits and berries have a colorful impact on the body as well. These foods are extremely rich in antioxidants which are vital for human health. Moreover, fruits and berries and also vegetables which are seasonal, are grown organically and are not fed with pesticides and other plant growth medicines.

Healthy oils

Oil is often seen as a culprit when someone's health deteriorates. It has never been seen in a good light when it comes to good health. Many times we have been advised against consumption of oils in order to keep our heart healthy. But contrary to all these beliefs, Dr Amen suggests having oils which are healthy. Healthy cooking oils are those which are rich in antioxidants, and have not been ripped off their original mineral contents through a high refinement process.

Eggs

Eggs are considered to be a mood boosting food. Experts say eggs are loaded with choline which helps produce neurotransmitters and hence improve mood. As per a report: "Eggs deliver B-12, folate, protein and healthy fat—all of which are very important in terms of brain function. The yolk is packed with carotenoids, giving it its yellow color, and recent studies at Harvard have linked carotenoids to optimism."

​Foods with low glycemic index

Foods with high glycemic index are known to induce sleepiness as these cause abrupt variations in the blood sugar level. These foods spike the blood sugar level and then crash it unlike foods with low glycemic index. It is therefore advisable to eat foods with low glycemic index in order to have a healthy body and a positive mind.

​Dark chocolate

The impact of dark chocolate on a person's mood is known to all. The sugar in the dark chocolate elevates the mood promoting hormone serotonin in the body, thus improving the overall mood of the person. The sugar facilitates the release of insulin which produces the feel good chemicals known as endorphins which are known to induce euphoria kind of feelings in a human being.

First Aid for Heart Attack everyone should know

   (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news)

Heart attack is a medical emergency

A heart attack is a medical emergency. If you see someone closeby getting a heart attack you should be aware of the first aid treatments that need to be given so that the chances of fatality for the concerned person is cut down till hospital assistance is available.

In places where medical assistance takes time to arrive, first aid knowledge is like godsend.

For medical emergencies like heart attack one should have a clear idea about the symptoms.

Symptoms of heart attack

Symptoms of heart attack vary and are difficult to understand at that particular time due to the panic associated with it. Commonly, when heart attacks occur people feel terrible chest pain like a pressure, or a tight squeeze or fullness in the heart. The pain is often in the centre of the chest.

Pain is also felt in the jaw, shoulder, arms, stomach and also in the back. "This pain happens because a blockage stops blood getting to the heart muscle. The pain will not ease with rest," says the British Redcross Society.

The person will experience breathlessness, weakness and numbness usually in the left arm.

The person would also faint and sweat a lot during a heart attack.

First aid treatment during heart attack

Soon after you see symptoms of heart attack in an individual do not wait for a moment and start acting. You need to remember that every second counts in such a medically critical situation.

Call emergency number

The first and foremost step is to call the emergency number for ambulance services. Even though first aid treatment will be given, the person still needs to get medical assistance as soon as possible.

Help the person sit down

Soon after you have done the medical emergency call, help the person to sit down comfortably. Sitting eases the strain on the heart. Experts have also said that sitting down reduces the chances of collapsing due to the attack.

Talk to them

Till the time medical assistance arrives, speak to the person gently. Give the person hope that everything will be alright and medical help is on its way.

  Give CPR

If the person loses consciousness, in the meantime, give CPR. "If the person isn't breathing or you don't find a pulse, begin CPR to keep blood flowing after you call for emergency medical help. Push hard and fast on the center of the person's chest in a fairly rapid rhythm — about 100 to 120 compressions a minute," say experts at MayoClinic.

Bottomline

While first aid treatment can delay or in many cases prevent adversities, it is always wise to seek medical help as soon as possible. Do not postpone the hospital visit once you feel okay. It is very essential to get checkups done at the right time so that medical treatment starts early.

Viral: Doctors chant Dhanwantari mantra before surgery; here's why

  (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news)

 The video of a group of doctors, in green “surgery” outfits, chanting Dhanwantari mantra is going viral. 8-10 doctors can be seen in the video chanting the mantra.

The video has been shared by the Twitter account @SheetalPronamo and is said to be from Kumareswar hospital in Karnataka. The video says the doctors chanted the mantra before the operation of a patient.

"Doctors chanted Dhanwantari mantra at Kumareswar hospital in Karnataka before Operation. Benefits of mantra- Whenever the mantra is chanted, its divine energies touch you & work on your body, mind & soul with a healing touch," reads the tweet.

Dhanwantari mantra holds religious significance in Hinduism and is for Lord Dhanwantari who is considered to be the Father of Ayurveda medicine. It is believed that chanting Dhanwantari mantra alleviates human sufferings and promotes prosperity. Mantra chanting has prime importance in Hinduism. The word mantra comes from two words: man which means mind and tra which means release. Chanting mantra increases self awareness, lessens stress, give calm to the inner self, brings in a more positive outlook in the person.

Dhanwantari mantra:

Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaaya Dhanvantaraye Amrita-kalasha HastaayaSarva-amaya Vinashaaya Trailokya Naathaya Dhanvantri Maha-vishnave Namaha.

While many people have praised the doctors for upholding the traditions, many others have questioned how a video was recorded inside an operation theatre.

"Thanks for sharing. It is Amazing to know that such pious prayer is chanted before the operation . Doctors know that they treat but HE who heals," says one Twitter user.

 "Chanting of Mantra is good but this video frm OT is wrong & not a professional ethic," says another.