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Health News

What are the 8 Factors Causing You Wrinkles?

We are aware that wrinkles are ridges, folds, or creases in the epidermis of the skin. As we become older, they naturally develop. It is however perfectly normal to have wrinkles on your skin. As we age, our skin normally becomes drier, thinner, and less elastic. However, it may be concerning if you start to wrinkle before your time. First of all let's understand why we get wrinkles, their causes and their prevention from the experts: Sunlight Exposure Wrinkles are primarily brought on by the sun. UV radiation from sunlight can penetrate the deepest layers of skin and break down collagen, which makes the skin less flexible. Wear sunscreen that is suited for your skin type whether you are inside or outside, whether you are driving or just relaxing by the window. Given the previous weather, SPF 30 or higher is recommended. The sun's indirect rays might also lead to wrinkles. People who work in the sun are more likely to get early wrinkles. Wrinkles may be avoided by donning clothes that cover the skin, such as long sleeves or a hat. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption Smoking often reduces the blood flow to the skin, accelerating skin ageing. Skin is dried out by alcohol. As a result, the skin loses strength and flexibility. Wrinkles start to develop as the skin begins to sag. So for the sake of your skin, give up drinking and smoking. Squinting Squinting and particularly active facial movements like furrowing your brows and frowning can also contribute to wrinkles. When you squint, your facial muscles stiffen up. Dr Karuna Malhotra, Cosmetologist and Aesthetic Physician from Cosmetic Skin Clinic, New Delhi said "As a result, your skin cells become squeezed and lose their suppleness. Many individuals have a tendency to squint. But you may change this negative behaviour and stop wrinkles from forming by making conscious efforts." Stress is a Key Culprit Dr Sandeep Babbar, Medical Director and Dermatologist from Revyve Skin, Hair and Nail Clinic, Faridabad explained "As we age, the body produces less collagen, and stress also decreases collagen production and can cause inflammation. Collagen loses flexibility and rigidity as it ages, making it less effective at promoting skin regeneration and wound healing. Both a loss of flexibility and persistent brow furrowing brought on by stress can cause wrinkles. Stress can also cause wrinkles to emerge because high amounts of the stress hormone cortisol can break down the collagen and elastin in the skin." Dry Skin If you have dry skin, you are more likely to have wrinkles. People with dry skin produce less sebum, the skin's natural moisturiser, which acts as a barrier to shield your skin from the whims of the climate. Regularly moisturise at least twice a day to prevent wrinkles because doing so prevents dryness, which reduces the likelihood that wrinkles will appear. Lack of Sleep Lack of sleep makes skin healing more difficult. The skin's ability to retain moisture is compromised, as well as the pH level. All of this causes insufficient collagen formation, which speeds up the development of wrinkles. Excessive Cosmetic Use Your skin can benefit from cosmetics, but overusing them could have the opposite effect said Dr Karuna Malhotra. They could cause rashes, edoema, clogged pores, and other unfavourable outcomes. All of them can delay the onset of wrinkles by reducing the production of collagen and sebum. Food Deficiencies On the other hand, dietary deficiencies wreak havoc on your skin, causing breakouts, rashes, dry skin, wrinkles before their time, etc. If you don't get enough vitamins, your skin may start to show it by becoming dry, pigmented, dull, or overly oily. Your face and body show the effects of the food you eat. Include vitamins C, D, B, E, and K in your diet; these nutrients are crucial for maintaining healthy skin. "People may go for a variety of treatments to get rid of wrinkles. Making lifestyle adjustments like moisturising, using sunscreen, eating a good diet, being less stressed out, exercising regularly, giving up smoking, and drinking less alcohol can help you delay or prevent wrinkles. For deeper wrinkles, a person can also require procedures like microdermabrasion, botox, fillers, chemical peels, facelifts, etc" said Dr Sandeep Babbar. (Agency) Read More►Protecting Mental Health While Pregnant
Health News

Lifestyle Changes Help to Prevent Kidney Diseases: Experts

By making changes in lifestyle, kidney diseases cannot only be prevented but also controlled in their early stages, said experts. Himanshu Verma, Head of the Department of Nephrology at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital, said in his presentation that the process from kidney disease to kidney failure happens in five stages. "But it is possible to completely overcome the disease in the first and second stages. For this, first of all, it is necessary to have awareness among the patients so that the disease can be identified in the initial stage itself." According to him, keeping the body mass index (BMI) between 20-25, walking 30 minutes a day and at least five days a week, changing lifestyle, and reducing the consumption of pain-relieving medicines, among other precautions, are effective in controlling the disease in the initial stage. Patients with diabetes and high blood pressure would be at the highest risk of kidney disease. "This risk can be much higher for people over 60 years of age with any of these diseases." The experts also talked about alternative treatment methods of ayurveda like Neeri KFT, a traditional ayurvedic polyherbal formulation that has been found to be effective in regulating functions of at least six genes variants causing kidney dysfunction. In concluding remarks, Sanchit Sharma, Executive Director, of AIMIL Pharma, said the nine-day-long program experts discussed extensively how to avoid kidney diseases and how to manage them. "This discussion shows that no standards can be fixed to prevent the disease but a dynamic approach needs to be adopted," he said. Studies have warned that the prevalence of chronic kidney disease in India is on the rise among those dealing with chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Read More►Debunking 5 Common Diabetes Myths
Nirog Health Tips

5 Natural Herbs That Help

Sleep is your body's natural way of healing itself. Good quality sleep prepares you for a productive day ahead. You need 7 to 9 hours of sleep to feel relaxed and rejuvenated, but sometimes getting quality sleep can be difficult. Sleep experts at Eachnight.com have revealed how natural herbs can help those who may struggle to drift off at night. This research has been medically reviewed by Dr. Nayantara Santhi. How Can Herbs Promote Sleep? Natural herbs contain powerful sleep-enhancing properties for a night of restful sleep. They can calm your nerves and soothe your senses, providing adequate sleep. Sleep deprivation is often due to a hectic lifestyle, anxiety, and stress. Stress affects the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin, but taking some herbal supplements can compensate for this loss. Some natural herbs are high in tryptophan, an amino acid improving the synthesis of serotonin. Increasing serotonin levels offsets the chemical imbalance causing the most common sleep disorder, insomnia. 5 Best Herbs to Try Lavender The anti-depressive, sedative, and calming properties of lavender help you sleep better. Studies show lavender herbs can relax your nerves, reduce anxiety levels, and stabilize mood disorders. Reduced stress, anxiety, and a positive mood promote daytime wakefulness and more sustained sleep at night. Typically, lavender is used via sprays or inhaled. Chamomile Chamomile is an ancient medicinal herb known for its relaxing effects. Modern-day studies prove the efficacy of chamomile. It reduces anxiety, soothes your nerves, and eases insomnia. One study, for example, found that women who had given birth and struggled to sleep experienced less sleep inefficiency and depression when drinking chamomile tea at night for two weeks. The presence of nerve-relaxing flavonoids in chamomile tea makes it a popular tranquilizing drink. You can feel chamomile's soothing effect even by inhaling its aroma. Valerian The roots of the valerian herb are often used to treat insomnia, restlessness, and anxiety in patients. Valerenic acid in the valerian roots inhibits the breakdown of the neurotransmitter GABA. This induces better quality sleep. Valerian works on the principles of anti-anxiety medicines, promoting deep sleep. Valerian is available in many stores and usually comes in the form of tablets. Passionflower Passionflower contains nerve-relaxing flavonoids, which help you to de-stress and sleep better. This tropical flower tastes good and is commonly used in many herbal, over-the-counter sedatives. Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb commonly used to combat insomnia, as studies have shown it's effective at improving sleep onset latency and quality of rest. The real sleep-promoting compounds of Ashwagandha are found in the leaves of this plant-tri ethylene glycol works to eliminate feelings of stress or anxiety, induce calmness, and help you fall asleep easily. Ashwagandha ultimately acts like a sedative, so it's a great alternative to anxiety medications or OTC sleep aids since it works with your body to naturally bolster your sleeping habits. Ashwagandha can be bought as capsules that are ingested. How to Use Herbs for Sleep Herbal Tea Make some herbal tea by adding 1 tsp of herbs to a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 20 minutes, then strain and drink it. You can drink two to three cups of herbal tea in a day. Essential Oils Add herb-flavored essential oils to your warm water bath at bedtime to feel a calming effect, inducing sleep. Massage herb-infused oil mixed with olive, grapeseed, or coconut oil on certain parts of your body such as your forehead, neck, chest, wrist, chest, hands, or feet. Your skin may be sensitive to an undiluted essential oil, so diluting it reduces the chances of a reaction. Aromatherapy Inhale the fragrance of natural herbs through aromatherapy candles. Supplements Consume herbal extract supplements, available over the counter in pharmacy stores. Read the dosage instructions on the label to know how much to take per day. A spokesperson from Eachnight.com commented, "Sleep disturbances occur when the normal processes of waking and/or initiating sleep do not happen. This can occur because of a combination of genetic, environmental, sleep habits, and other psychobiological factors. If the pattern of sleep disturbances continues over time, these factors can create a vicious cycle of ongoing sleep problems with consequences in our waking lives. As they say, sleep health is as important as diet and exercise for our well-being. Most natural herbs have a long history of use for the treatment of insomnia. These herbal medicines were being prescribed by physicians since ancient times as natural sleep aids. Modern-day studies and research have supported the efficacy of taking these herbs for a great night's sleep, so any of these options can be a good fit. Although many herbs are harmless and have no side effects it is worth talking to your doctor before making any drastic changes." (agency). Read more►Quick Fix Your Congestion and Sore Throat with Ayurveda
Yoga and Fitness

5 Healthy Ingredients for Fitness Enthusiasts

Fitness enthusiasts are always on the lookout for ingredients to help boost their fitness journeys. While chemical supplements are widely available in the market, the goodness of ayurvedic ingredients does not usually get the attention it deserves. Ayurveda is a centuries-old Indian healthcare practice. It aims to maintain health and wellness by balancing the mind, body, and spirit, and it focuses more on prevention than treatment. To accomplish this, it takes a holistic approach that encompasses nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments. Ayurvedic herbs and spices play a significant role in this approach. They are believed to give a range of health advantages, including better digestion and mental health, and actually protect your body from sickness. Here are 5 Healthy Ingredients for Fitness Enthusiasts Shared by Dr. Kriti Soni, Head of R&D, Kapiva 1. Ashwagandha  Originally from India, ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a little woody shrub. Its roots and berries are used to make a well-known Ayurvedic medicine. It is classified as an adaptogen, which means it is believed to help your body cope with stress more effectively. Cortisol is a hormone that your adrenal glands create in response to stress, and studies have shown that ashwagandha lowers cortisol levels. Fitness enthusiasts can benefit from it to relieve stress-both physical and psychological. Ashwagandha may also improve muscle growth and blood sugar levels. 2. Shilajit ​It is an ingredient that has been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicinal practices to treat a wide range of ailments. It is abundant in minerals and contains a major compound known as fulvic acid. While working out, fitness enthusiasts lose essential electrolytes that aid in regulating water balance, muscle contractions, nerve impulses, and metabolism by sweating. Shilajit is rich in certain mineral content, which has the ability to replace these electrolytes, thus maintaining physical performance and endurance. 3. Triphala  Triphala is an Ayurvedic cure made from the three medicinal fruits listed: Amla (Emblica Officinalis, or Indian gooseberry) Bibhitaki (Terminalia Bellirica) Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula) According to research, Triphala may lessen arthritic inflammation and prevent or slow the spread of several cancers. Furthermore, Triphala is also beneficial for improved digestion and oral health. Fitness enthusiasts may benefit largely from including Triphala in their diet, as it can promote overall health and well-being. It acts as a colon toner and helps in strengthening and toning the tissues of the colon. As a result, it helps manage weight. 4. Turmeric Another well-liked Ayurvedic treatment is turmeric It is the ingredient that gives curry its characteristic yellow color. Its primary active ingredient, curcumin, is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Test-tube research suggests that it might be just as effective as other anti-inflammatory medications, if not more so, and without any of their negative effects. Additionally, turmeric may aid in the prevention of heart disease in part by enhancing blood flow, just as effectively as exercise or other prescribed drugs. 5. Cardamom Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) is known as the "queen of spices," and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine since ancient times. According to research, those with high blood pressure may benefit from using cardamom powder to lower it. There is evidence that inhaling cardamom essential oil may improve the body's ability to absorb oxygen when exercising. Ayurvedic studies suggest that adding cardamom may lower blood pressure, improve breathing, and heal stomach ulcers. However, more human study is required before definitive conclusions can be drawn. Ayurvedic herbs and spices have been an integral part of traditional Indian medicine for centuries. An increasing amount of scientific evidence supports their many proposed health benefits, including protection against type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Thus, adding small amounts of these ingredients may help both flavors your meals and boost your health. That said, large doses may not be suitable for everyone, so make sure to seek advice from your healthcare provider before adding Ayurvedic supplements to your fitness regimen. (Agency). Read more►Yoga And Pranayama Help Ease Panic Attacks
Nirog Health Tips

5 Lifestyle Tips for Pre-Diabetics to Stay Healthy

For many people in India, especially those in the older age groups, diabetes is a lifestyle condition that they live with on a daily basis. However, diabetes is becoming more common in younger age groups as well, raising issues of public health. After China, India is the country with the second-highest prevalence of diabetes, with an estimated 77 million individuals - or roughly 1 in 11 Indians - having the disease. Pre-diabetes is a condition or stage that precedes diabetes, where the body's blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. The National Urban Diabetes Survey estimates that our nation has a startling 14 per cent prevalence of pre-diabetes, commonly known as borderline diabetes. Due to the absence or minimal visibility of symptoms, many people in their 30s and 40s may be pre-diabetic without even being aware of it. If diabetes runs in your family, you are at an increased risk of developing it yourself. Nevertheless, by making dietary and lifestyle changes, pre-diabetes may still be somewhat reversed and treated. Here are some precautions and tips one can be mindful of to stay healthy as a pre-diabetic: Move About More Sitting is the new smoking. A sedentary lifestyle is known to increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Regular exercise and workouts approved by a trainer or doctor help manage pre-diabetes by lowering blood glucose levels. Moreover, being active can improve insulin sensitivity throughout the body. It can also help you manage your weight which is crucial to not slip into diabetes. Try brisk walks, jogs, and runs and gradually move to more aerobic exercises such as dance and biking/bicyling. Weight Management Did you know that being overweight, or having a body mass index over 25, can increase one's risk of developing type 2 diabetes? If you are diagnosed for pre-diabetes, gradually losing 5-10 per cent of your body weight can significantly improve your chances of delaying or reversing diabetes prevalence. Ask a trainer to help you focus on your midsection for belly fat, as a large waist circumference is known to put a person at an increased risk of diabetes. Keep Stress at Bay Stress can make you sick, but it can also make you pre-diabetic, or at least make your condition worse. An imbalance of stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline - known for the fight or flight response - can trigger blood glucose levels to shoot up and remain high. Make time for adequate rejuvenation on your schedule, and make sure to not pressure yourself to work like a machine. Make time for laughter and time with friends and family. Schedule time for walks, gardening or other hobbies that help you decompress. Watch What's on Your Plate Consider the composition of your meals. Is there an adequate balance between protein, carbohydrates, fats and necessary vitamins and minerals? For a healthy portion, pre-diabetics should fill half of their plate with non-starchy vegetables and leafy greens, and the rest with healthy carbohydrates, whole grains and lean protein. Stocking up on fibre will ensure satiety without raising blood sugar. Snack on nuts and fruit, even if they seem to be sugary. One must remember they have natural sugar. Avoid Drinking Your Sugar Added sugars must be avoided at all costs to avoid escalation into diabetes. Sweetened beverages can spike blood sugar levels and provide little nutritional diversity, such as protein. This includes energy drinks, soft drinks and any syrups or liquid desserts. Research says that substituting one daily serving of a sugary drink with low-calorie alternatives such as water, coffee, or tea is linked with a 2-10 per cent lower risk of diabetes. (Dr Vivek Srivastava, Senior Vice President, Zeon Lifesciences)  
Food and Nutrition

4 Mistakes You Make While

Fruit is great for weight loss because it is low calorie, high fibre, and water content. Fruit is nature's quick snack and is a great source of vitamins and other elements that help maintain a healthy diet. Fruit has vitamins and minerals that the body needs in abundance. According to Dr. Archana Batra, a dietician and a certified diabetes educator, "Many people consume fruit wrongly, which might cause more harm than benefit if not corrected." She also shares a list of mistakes one makes when eating fruit. Combining fruit with anything else- Fruit breaks down faster than any other food. When combined with other foods, it can cause the formation of toxins in the body known as ama. This is due to the fact that food pairing can slow down digestion. Fruit must stay in the stomach for as long as the heaviest food takes to digest, making nutrient absorption difficult. It begins to ferment in the digestive juices, which is usually toxic and may raise the possibility of illness and other health conditions. It is therefore preferable to consume it separately. Fruit at nighttime- It is best to avoid anything 2-3 hours before going to bed because it interferes with the digestive system. This holds true for fruit as well. Fruit consumption right before bed has a high chance of disrupting sleep because it releases a lot of sugar, which spikes energy levels when the body should be resting. At night, our ability to absorb and assimilate nutrients is significantly reduced. In addition, eating fruits late at night may cause acidity symptoms. Fruit should be consumed as an evening snack and no later than that. Drink water immediately- Not only children but also adults, are frequently observed drinking water immediately after eating fruit. Drinking water after eating fruit can cause the pH level of the digestive system to become unbalanced, especially consuming fruit with a high water content like watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, orange, and strawberry. This is because fruit with a lot of water in it can change the pH balance by reducing the acidity of your stomach. Experts warn that doing so can result in serious illnesses such as diarrhoea or cholera. You are not eating the skin- When it comes to vitamins and antioxidants, the peel is frequently the best part. Apple peels, for example, are high in fibre, vitamin C, and A. Eating the skin may even be the key to lowering your risk of obesity and cancer, according to research. (N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe)