by admin | Feb 8, 2025 | health, health and exercise, health benefits, medicine and healthcare, mental health
While taking a nap is an easy method to rejuvenate yourself during the day, apart from choosing caffeine and comparable choices, studies have shown that it offers significant advantages, notably for cardiovascular health.
Sleeping frequently correlates with enhanced cognitive abilities and increased vitality, yet Dr Mohamad Imran Idris, a neurologist at Sunway Medical Centre, underscores the significant impact of taking short daytime rests in lowering the likelihood of heart ailments.
LONG-TERM BENEFITS OF NAPPING
Diet and exercise commonly stand out as the cornerstones of cardiac wellness; however, keeping consistent sleep patterns may prove equally vital. Prolonged investigations monitoring both habitual siesta-takers and those who do not nap across many years indicate that individuals who regularly take short sleeps exhibit a reduced likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases, says Dr Imran.
“In cohort studies where investigators tracked participants over a period of five to six years, it was observed that individuals who frequently took naps had a lower likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases than those who did not,” he explained.
This indicates that naps can do more than just rejuvenate the body; they might also assist in sustaining healthy blood pressure levels, decreasing stress, and improving cardiac function gradually.
COGNITIVE ABILITY AND GENERAL MENTAL WELL-BEING
Dr Imran further mentioned that taking a nap concurrently aids both the heart and the brain, as decreased stress from sleeping assists in maintaining cardiac health, along with numerous other advantages.
Power naps can enhance your memory retention and boost your capacity to learn, which makes them beneficial for both immediate and future brain performance.
In an experiment, subjects had to commit a set of 100 words to memory. A portion of them took a siesta afterward, whereas another segment remained active. Subsequently, later in the same day, both groups were presented with a fresh batch of words to absorb.
“The findings indicated that individuals who took naps performed better when acquiring a new set of information, demonstrating that sleep can boost memory retention and learning abilities,” he stated.
However, remember that napping needs particular timing to be advantageous. According to Dr Imran, napping too near to your bedtime might lessen “sleep pressure,” making it harder for you to fall asleep at night or potentially causing insomnia.
“He cautioned that you ought to steer clear of taking long afternoon naps as they might disrupt your normal sleeping pattern,” he warned.
Rather, the perfect nap ought to fall within the timeframe of 1pm to 4pm, coinciding with the natural dip in your body’s alertness levels. It should also be kept short, about 20-30 minutes, to avoid slipping into deeper stages of sleep that could result in you feeling drowsy upon waking.
Dr Imran assures individuals with pre-existing conditions like heart disease, dementia, or a past stroke that napping can still be advantageous for them.
“For individuals dealing with heart conditions, stroke, or even dementia, an appropriately timed nap can enhance general health instead of causing damage, provided they do not suffer from insomnia,” he explained, noting that people with insomnia wouldn’t gain advantages from taking a nap.
TAKING UP NAPS AS A ROUTINE
Taking naps can be a crucial practice when done correctly, aiding heart health and enhancing brain function over time, apart from serving as a method to increase energy levels. Instead of viewing them as signs of idleness, these rests should be integrated into a wholesome daily routine.
Next time you experience that afternoon slump, try taking a brief nap. An appropriately timed nap does more than boost your energy; it serves as a straightforward method to enhance both cardiac and cognitive health over the long term.
by admin | Feb 1, 2025 | brain health, health, health advice, healthcare and medicine, medicine and healthcare
A widely-used pain reliever might enhance memory and intellect, according to a recent study.
Ibuprofen, which serves as an anti-inflammatory used to alleviate headaches, toothaches, back pain, and cold symptoms, might also enhance reaction speeds according to researchers.
The advantages for health are so substantial, they argue, that the pills can be as beneficial for cognitive function as reducing hypertension.
Nevertheless, using acetaminophen, a widely used analgesic, had an adverse impact and might potentially impair memory function.
The University College
London
A study examined the cognitive impacts of widely used medications on approximately five hundred thousand individuals in the UK.
Scientists discovered that medications utilized for alleviating pain and inflammation,
osteoarthritis
Heart disease, asthma, allergies, and hypertension could potentially yield the most significant benefits.
The non-prescription pain reliever paracetamol and the prescribed antidepressant fluoxetine showed the highest negative impacts on memory and problem-solving abilities.
Researches indicate that their findings merely hint at an association between the medications and these side-effects, without definitively proving that the drugs are the direct cause. However, they emphasize that all new drug trials ought to examine the possible impacts on the brain, enabling physicians to select the most suitable medication options for their patients.
Martin Rossor, the lead author of the study and a neurologist, stated, “Commonly prescribed medications could have substantial impacts on cognitive functions. Since these drugs are frequently utilized and often cause negative cognitive outcomes, it would be wise to incorporate regular assessments of mental abilities during clinical tests.”
Very few studies have explored the impact of widely used drugs on cognition. A challenge here lies in the fact that these substances are commonly consumed by elderly individuals who usually take multiple medicines simultaneously. This makes it difficult to pinpoint exactly what could be responsible for any observed effects.
Any negative impacts on cognitive function might also mistakenly be blamed on getting older.
The research, supported by the charitable organization The Health Foundation, analyzed health records of approximately 540,000 individuals ranging from young adults to those up to 73 years old. This investigation encompassed details regarding their medications along with their performance in assessments gauging aspects such as response speed, recollection capacity, logical thinking capabilities, and puzzle-solving aptitudes.
The performance of individuals taking the medications was contrasted against those not using the drug.
The findings, reported in the journal Brain And Behaviour, indicated that individuals using any of ten commonly prescribed medications outperformed those not taking these drugs in various assessments.
Pain relievers such as aspirin, codeine, and diclofenac—which is also called Voltaren—proved beneficial.
Omega-3 triglycerides, utilized to address heart conditions; glucosamine for osteoarthritis; atorvastatin for reducing cholesterol levels; omeprazole for managing heartburn; lansoprazole as an anti-indigestion medication—all these showed advantages when taken alongside individuals who were consuming a multivitamin.
The medication amitriptyline, used for treating migraines, was also associated with the most adverse effects.
Read more
by admin | Jan 29, 2025 | food and drink, health, health benefits, healthy eating, medicine and healthcare
This exemplifies French culinary traditions, yet goes beyond that… The herb provides various health advantages to those who partake in it.
In the kitchen, laurel has emerged as an essential component for adding zest and enhancing the flavor of meals. Throughout history, particularly during Roman and Greek eras, this herb symbolized tranquility, prosperity, triumph, and eternal life. Additionally, in traditional healing practices, it is recognized for alleviating conditions like arthritis, gastrointestinal issues, and infections, along with soothing an agitated psyche.
A Mediterranean treasure
As
TF1 info
Highlights that the laurel tree, or Bay Laurel, is an evergreen shrub indigenous to the Mediterranean region. Besides containing essential nutrients like iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, along with vitamins A, B, C, D, and vital minerals beneficial for overall wellness, the laurel exhibits calming effects alongside antiviral and antifungal characteristics. During wintertime when you have a common cold or bronchitis, using this herb may help cleanse your airways and alleviate throat irritation. Issues such as bloating, excessive gas swallowing, or sluggish digestion can also benefit from incorporating laurel into your regimen. For those suffering from joint and muscular discomfort due to arthritis, laurel serves as a powerful aid in mitigating these symptoms’ severity. Furthermore, dried bay leaves enjoy recognition for promoting relaxation, making them perfect for managing anxiety and sleeplessness.
For consuming, dining, and sharing
Do not confuse noble laurel or bay leaf with oleander and cherry laurel (both toxic), which should not be eaten. Noble laurel or bay leaf can be enjoyed when steeped in hot water to make an infusion using just a few leaves. Additionally, you may integrate this herb into cooking; think of incorporating it into a flavorful bouquet garni or grinding it into a dried powder. Furthermore, it’s available as an essential oil intended for massage purposes, particularly useful for relieving pain such as muscle soreness, but ensure you blend it first with some carrier oil before application, according to the recommendation.
TF1
info.
Be cautious: laurel is not advised for pregnant women, nursing mothers, or children younger than seven years old. Additionally, be wary of potential allergic reactions if your skin is prone to sensitivity.
(MH with AsD – Source: TF1 Info – Image: Unsplash)
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by admin | Jan 26, 2025 | fitness, health, health & fitness, health and exercise, healthcare and medicine
Increasing your fitness level prior to significant surgery might reduce the risk of postoperative complications by half, according to a study.
The study also revealed that patients who proactively got ready for scheduled surgeries through exercise and better nutrition generally experienced faster recoveries.
In the Canadian study involving 15,684 individuals whose medical records were reviewed, participants who adopted healthier behaviors—referred to as prehabilitation rather than post-operative rehabilitation—experienced fewer complications within a month following their procedures and reported an improved quality of life.
Scientists found that boosting physical activity prior to surgery, whenever feasible, might decrease the likelihood of complications by half. Additionally, maintaining a nutritious diet—especially one high in proteins—was linked to reducing the risk by 38 percent.
It was unexpectedly discovered that one of the most efficient ways to decrease the length of hospital stay following surgery is providing patients with access to psychological support. This involves clinicians discussing in detail what to anticipate during the recovery phase.
When combining all three factors — exercise, a nutritious diet, and therapy — the likelihood of experiencing post-operative complications decreased by 36 percent.
Proactively getting ready for significant surgery might also reduce the duration of recovery in the hospital.
Individuals who increased their physical activity and received emotional backing spent approximately 2.5 less days in the hospital compared to those who didn’t.
Combining exercise and healthy eating was associated with 1.22 fewer days.
Up to 44 percent of NHS patients in the UK experience complications following significant surgeries such as internal hemorrhaging, infections, and strokes.
Dr. Daniel McIsaac, who led the research and works as an anesthetist at Ottawa Hospital, stated: “Preparation programs before surgery might be advantageous for adult patients.”
The researchers are now set to explore the impacts of customized prehabilitation exercises, like emphasizing leg strength prior to knee surgery.
Read more
by admin | Jan 23, 2025 | almonds, health, healthy living, nutrition, nutritionists
Among the most beneficial nuts, almonds, pistachios, and walnuts stand out for their array of advantages, making them excellent additions to your diet.
According to
Healthline
, nuts are veritable hubs of nutrition, abundant in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, beneficial fats, and proteins. Research mentioned by
Health.com
suggests that consuming nuts could aid in lowering the chances of developing diabetes, heart disease, and specific types of cancer.
Let’s take a detailed look at nine of the most nutritious nuts you should consider adding to your diet.
1. Almonds
An ounce (28 grams) of roasted almonds contains 170 calories, with 15 grams of fat, 6 grams of protein, and 3 grams of fiber. They also include vital nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.
Vitamin E aids in safeguarding cells against oxidative harm and supports both immune system functionality and cell-to-cell communication. Research indicates that almonds could assist in decreasing LDL (low-density lipoprotein), which is considered bad cholesterol, along with reducing inflammation, thus enhancing cardiac and gastrointestinal well-being.
2. Pistachios
Pistachios contain fewer calories and less fat compared to numerous other types of nuts, offering 159 calories, 13 grams of fat, and 6 grams of protein for each ounce. These nuts are abundant in vitamin B6 as well as antioxidants such as lutein and flavonoids. Such nutrients aid in lowering blood pressure, boosting metabolic processes, enhancing immune system performance, and maintaining good cardiovascular health.
3. Walnuts
Pecans stand out due to their significant content of ALA omega-3 fatty acids, offering 2.57 grams per ounce. Additionally, they include vital minerals such as copper and manganese, aiding in maintaining brain health and bolstering the immune system.
Studies indicate that consuming walnuts may help decrease LDL cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and triglycerides, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease.
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A mix of various nuts in a bowl. Stock image by Pexels
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4. Cashews
An ounce of
cashews
includes 157 calories, 12 grams of fat, and 5 grams of protein. These also serve as an excellent source of vitamin K, magnesium, and manganese—nutrients crucial for maintaining strong bones.
Research indicates that cashews could potentially enhance blood pressure and triglyceride levels; however, additional studies are required for confirmation.
5. Pecans
A single ounce of pecans contains 201 calories, 21 grams of fat, and 3 grams of fiber, as well as zinc and manganese. Zinc aids in immune system support, promotes wound healing, and assists in DNA synthesis.
Pecans might also aid in enhancing cardiac health by reducing LDL cholesterol levels.
6. Macadamia nuts
An ounce of Macadamia nuts includes approximately 204 calories, 21.5 grams of fat, and 2 grams of protein, as well as vitamins like B1 and minerals such as manganese. Studies indicate that these nuts may aid in reducing LDL cholesterol, triglyceride levels, and blood glucose levels.
7. Brazil nuts
Brazil nuts are a great source of selenium, as one ounce provides 989% of the recommended daily intake. This mineral aids in thyroid function and DNA synthesis; however, they should be eaten in moderation to prevent excessive consumption.
These nuts are abundant in vitamin E and magnesium, nutrients that assist in regulating blood glucose levels and blood pressure, maintaining proper nerve function, and boosting energy creation. Furthermore, they exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics.
8. Hazelnuts
An ounce of hazelnuts contains 178 calories, with 17 grams of fat and 4 grams of protein. These nuts are abundant in vitamin E, manganese, magnesium, and health-promoting phytochemicals. Such nutrient content can contribute to reducing LDL and overall cholesterol levels while providing anti-inflammatory advantages.
9. Peanuts
Although botanically classified as legumes, peanuts share a nutrient profile akin to tree nuts. Each ounce of peanut contains approximately 7 grams of protein and includes polyphenol antioxidants along with folate. This latter nutrient is particularly crucial during pregnancy for promoting healthy fetal and placental growth.
Peanuts might also lower the chances of developing cardiovascular diseases and strokes; however, this advantage doesn’t apply to peanut butter.
by admin | Jan 23, 2025 | adhd, adult adhd/add, chronic conditions and diseases, health, healthcare and medicine
Individuals who receive an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood might face a reduced life expectancy compared to those without this condition, as suggested by a recent study that has been described by certain specialists as “remarkable”.
According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), ADHD is a disorder marked by constant fidgeting, trouble focusing, and impulsive behavior, typically identified in kids younger than 12 years old.
In a world-first
study
In the study, over 30,000 adults from the UK who had ADHD were compared to more than 300,000 individuals without ADHD.
The study relied on de-identified primary care data spanning from the year 2000 through 2019.
The research revealed that males with an ADHD diagnosis lived 4.5 to 9 fewer years than those without the condition, whereas females with ADHD experienced a reduction of 6.6 to 11 years in their life span when contrasted with individuals who were not diagnosed.
The research appeared in the British Journal of Psychiatry on Thursday.
‘Deeply concerning’
Josh Stott, the lead researcher of this new study and a professor specializing in ageing and clinical psychology at University College London, expressed deep concern over the finding that certain adults with ADHD “aren’t reaching their expected lifespan.”
“People with ADHD possess numerous strengths and can excel when provided with appropriate assistance and therapy. Nonetheless, these individuals frequently find themselves without adequate support and are at higher risk of encountering stressful situations and facing social isolation, which adversely affects their well-being and self-worth,” he stated.
The researchers warned that adult ADHD frequently goes undiagnosed, which might lead the study to overstate the decreases in life expectancy. They also emphasized that additional studies are necessary.
Kevin McConway, an emeritus professor of applied statistics from the Open University in the UK, who wasn’t part of the study team, stated that he found the research “impressive” yet noted that it still didn’t address numerous crucial queries.
“Despite some statistical uncertainties, the projected variations in lifespan between individuals identified as having ADHD versus those who aren’t seem quite substantial,” he noted, emphasizing that the crucial issue now is figuring out how we should address this.
He stated that this relies on whether ADHD led to the decreases in life expectancy, adding that the study is observational and emphasizing that the “complex interplay of various elements that could be intertwined is bound to be intricate”.
Support and treatment needed
According to the research findings, the decreased lifespans are probably due to “changeable risk elements and unfulfilled assistance and healthcare requirements” associated with both ADHD and various mental and physical health issues.
Philip Asherson, a professor of molecular psychiatry at King’s College London who wasn’t part of the research team, commented in a statement that although the exact reasons for premature deaths remain unclear, “ADHD is linked to increased incidences of smoking, obesity, heart conditions, as well as various types of cancers.”
“ADHD is being more widely recognized as a significant issue in adults linked to adverse health outcomes,” he stated, although he also noted that there is restricted availability for diagnosing and treating this condition.
For example, the latest research revealed that only one out of every 300 adults throughout the duration of their investigation received an ADHD diagnosis. According to the scientists, this figure corresponds to approximately one-ninth of what they estimated as the probable actual count of individuals living with ADHD derived from survey data.
“Asherson further noted that until this issue is tackled, the reduced life expectancy highlighted in the study will probably persist.”
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