Aarogya India, Pakyong (2025)

24/04/2025

Guwahati Scientists Create Eco-Friendly, Low-Cost Device to Detect Cholesterol Early

A group of researchers from the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, has developed an innovative and eco-friendly optical sensing platform to detect cholesterol levels. This new technology offers a low-cost solution for early diagnosis of serious health issues such as heart disease, hypertension, atherosclerosis, venous thrombosis, myocardial infarction, and even cancer.

The research team, led by Prof. Neelotpal Sen Sarma (Retired Professor), Dr. Asis Bala (Associate Professor), and Nasrin Sultana (DST INSPIRE Senior Research Fellow), has crafted this sensitive platform using silk fibre integrated with phosphorene quantum dots. They embedded this material within a cellulose nitrate membrane, transforming it into an efficient electrical sensing tool for cholesterol monitoring.

According to the Ministry of Science & Technology, the device is designed to help spot early warning signs of multiple life-threatening conditions, improving chances of timely intervention.

Their findings have been published in the Nanoscale journal, a prestigious publication of the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Cholesterol, a vital lipid produced by the liver, plays a key role in human health. However, an imbalance can lead to serious complications. There are two main types of cholesterol: LDL (low-density lipoprotein), known as 'bad' cholesterol because it can build up in artery walls, and HDL (high-density lipoprotein), or 'good' cholesterol, which helps remove LDL from the bloodstream. Maintaining a healthy balance between the two is essential.

This breakthrough platform could pave the way for affordable, eco-friendly diagnostic tools in healthcare, especially beneficial for early-stage disease detection.

21/04/2025

Never Take These Medicine Lister Below After Their Date of Expiry - Share and Save Someone's Life

Antibiotics: Antibiotics should always be taken as prescribed and they should never consumed after they reach their expiration date. Winn explained that certain types, such as tetracyclines, can degrade so much that if they are consumed past the expiration date, they may lead to kidney damage. He also warned that you should never have extra antibiotics. Always complete the course of your antibiotics as it may increase the risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that is harder to treat.

Heart medications: Heart medications such as nitroglycerin lose their potency over time. So, taking these medicine after they reach their expiration date can cause complications among people with heart conditions.

Insulin: If you take insulin after expiration date, it can be very dangerous. “Those with Type 1 diabetes rely on insulin to help regulate their blood sugar on a daily basis. Once expired, it may not work effectively and can cause hyperglycemia, which can lead to some very serious complications,” Winn told The Post.

EpiPens: Experts often warn against using EpiPens beyond their expiration date as it can be fatal. “If the medication begins to degrade, it may not be able to provide the life-saving effect needed if someone is experiencing an anaphylactic shock,” he said as quoted by The Post.

15/12/2024

Guava Leaves: A Secret to Healthier Hair

Guava leaves are more than just a companion to the delicious fruit—they’re packed with vitamins and antioxidants that can work wonders for your hair. Boiling guava leaves to create a nourishing hair rinse has gained popularity as an effective, natural remedy for stronger, healthier hair.

How Guava Leaf Water Benefits Your Hair

1. Strengthens Hair Follicles
Guava leaf water nourishes and strengthens hair follicles, reducing hair breakage and brittleness. This simple home remedy helps you achieve stronger, denser hair strands naturally.

2. Reduces Hair Loss
Rich in vitamins B and C, guava leaves help minimize hair fall. Vitamin C supports collagen production, which strengthens the scalp and hair roots, effectively reducing hair loss.

3. Improves Scalp Health
Boiled guava leaf water works as a clarifying rinse, removing impurities and excess oils from the scalp. A cleaner scalp helps combat dandruff, itchiness, and clogged follicles, creating a healthier environment for hair growth.

4. Enhances Shine and Softness
Packed with antioxidants, guava leaf water restores life to dull hair, leaving it shiny and smooth. It’s a natural way to achieve lustrous, soft locks without harsh chemicals.

5. Promotes Hair Growth
Antioxidants in guava leaves promote cell regeneration, supporting hair growth. Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) highlights guava leaves’ potential to accelerate natural hair growth when used regularly.

How to Use Guava Leaf Water for Hair
1. Boil a handful of guava leaves in water for 10-15 minutes.
2. Let the water cool and strain the leaves.
3. Apply the guava leaf water to your scalp and hair, massaging it in gently.
4. Leave it on for 30 minutes or rinse off as desired.

Incorporate this easy remedy into your hair care routine to strengthen and revitalize your strands. Try guava leaf water today for stronger, shinier, and healthier hair!

04/11/2024

Chewing guava leaves is a traditional practice believed to offer a variety of health benefits, thanks to the high concentration of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and other beneficial substances they contain.

Here are some of the potential health benefits:

1. Supports Digestive Health
Guava leaves contain compounds that can help soothe the digestive tract, potentially alleviating symptoms like diarrhea, stomach pain, and constipation. The leaves' antibacterial properties may also inhibit harmful microbes that contribute to digestive discomfort.
2. Promotes Oral Health
Chewing guava leaves can help reduce oral bacteria and prevent gum inflammation due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves may also help with bad breath, relieve toothaches, and even prevent gum disease when used regularly.
3. Helps Control Blood Sugar
Some studies suggest that compounds in guava leaves may help regulate blood sugar levels by inhibiting the absorption of certain sugars in the digestive system. This could be beneficial for people with or at risk of diabetes.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Effects
The leaves contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the body. This can be beneficial for people with inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
5. Supports Heart Health
Guava leaves may help lower cholesterol levels and improve blood lipid profiles, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. Their antioxidant properties may also help protect the heart from oxidative damage.
6. Helps with Weight Management
The leaves may aid weight management by helping to regulate blood sugar and reducing carbohydrate absorption, potentially preventing unnecessary fat storage. Additionally, they may help curb appetite when chewed before meals.
7. Rich in Antioxidants
Guava leaves are high in antioxidants, which can help neutralize free radicals in the body. This may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and protect skin cells from damage, promoting healthier skin.
8. May Relieve Menstrual Pain
Traditionally, guava leaves have been used to help relieve menstrual cramps due to their muscle-relaxing effects. Drinking guava leaf tea or chewing the leaves may help soothe menstrual discomfort.
9. Improves Skin Health
With their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, guava leaves may help reduce acne and skin irritation when applied directly or chewed. They contain compounds that can help clear impurities, improve skin texture, and promote a natural glow.
10. Boosts Immune System
Guava leaves contain vitamin C and other immune-boosting nutrients that may help support immune health. Regular consumption could strengthen the body's defenses against common infections.
Usage Note:
While guava leaves offer many benefits, they should be consumed in moderation. It’s best to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

31/10/2024

Goosegrass, also known as Eleusine indica, is a wild herb commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions.

It is valued in traditional medicine for its numerous health benefits. Here are some of its notable health benefits:

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Goosegrass contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for treating ailments like arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

2. Antimicrobial Effects: It has natural antimicrobial properties that help combat bacteria, fungi, and viruses, making it useful in treating minor infections.

3. Kidney Health: Goosegrass is often used as a natural diuretic, helping to flush out toxins and prevent kidney stones. It is also thought to support overall kidney function.

4. Digestive Health: Consuming goosegrass may aid in improving digestion, reducing bloating, and alleviating symptoms of constipation due to its mild laxative properties.

5. Blood Sugar Regulation: Some studies suggest that goosegrass might help in regulating blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

6. Detoxification : As a diuretic, goosegrass aids in detoxifying the body by promoting urination, which helps flush out toxins and cleanse the body.

7. Skin Health: Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can make it useful in treating minor skin issues like rashes and infections.

8. Pain Relief: Traditional medicine often uses goosegrass to alleviate mild pain and discomfort, especially related to inflammation and muscle aches.

Before using goosegrass for medicinal purposes, consulting a healthcare provider is advised, especially for people with existing health conditions or those taking medications.

28/10/2024

Corn silk, the silky threads found on ears of corn, is often discarded, but it has been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits.

Here are some of the key health benefits associated with corn silk:

1. Diuretic Properties

Corn silk is a natural diuretic, which means it helps increase urine production. This can help flush out excess fluids and toxins from the body, potentially reducing bloating and aiding in the management of conditions like kidney stones, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and high blood pressure.

2.Supports Kidney Health

By promoting urine production, corn silk may help prevent kidney stones and support overall kidney function. It may also reduce inflammation in the kidneys and urinary tract, which can be helpful for individuals with certain kidney conditions.

3.Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Corn silk contains various plant compounds, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, that have anti-inflammatory properties. These can help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially alleviating conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

4.Blood Sugar Regulations

Some studies suggest that corn silk may help regulate blood sugar levels. It can enhance insulin production and improve the management of blood glucose, which could be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes.

5.Rich in Antioxidants

Corn silk is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which help protect the body against damage from free radicals. This may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers.

6.Digestive Health

The fiber content in corn silk may aid in digestion, relieve constipation, and promote a healthy gut environment.

7.Supports Heart Health

The potassium in corn silk can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels, while its antioxidant properties may reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems by preventing oxidative stress.

8.Potential Weight Loss Aid

As a natural diuretic, corn silk can help reduce water retention and bloating, which may contribute to temporary weight loss.

9.Skin Health

When applied topically, corn silk extract can help soothe skin irritations, rashes, and minor wounds due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

How to Use Corn Silk
Tea: Corn silk tea is a common way to consume it. Simply boil dried corn silk in water and drink the tea.

Supplements: Corn silk is available in supplement form, such as capsules or extracts.

Topical Application: For skin issues, corn silk extracts can be applied directly to the skin.

Corn silk is generally considered safe, but it may interact with certain medications or conditions (e.g., diuretics or potassium-sparing drugs). Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or natural remedy.

11/05/2024

Harvard Study Spanning 30 Years Reveals Link Between Ultra-Processed Foods and Premature Death

A comprehensive 30-year study conducted by Harvard University has uncovered alarming connections between regular consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and premature death.

Following 114,000 participants over three decades, the research highlighted the risks associated with UPF consumption, which includes ready-to-eat meats, sugary beverages, dairy-based desserts, and heavily processed breakfast items.

Ultra-processed foods are characterized by additives and ingredients uncommon in home kitchens, often high in saturated fats while lacking essential nutrients and fiber.

Published in BMJ, the study's findings underscore the dangers of UPFs. Those who frequently consumed ultra-processed meats faced a staggering 13% higher risk of premature death during the study period. Similarly, individuals with diets rich in sugary and artificially sweetened beverages experienced a 9% increase in the likelihood of early mortality.

In total, diets abundant in ultra-processed foods correlated with a 4% higher chance of death over the study's average 34-year follow-up. The research identified specific causes of death, including cancer, heart disease, respiratory diseases, and neurodegenerative conditions.

This study emphasizes the necessity of limiting the intake of certain ultra-processed foods for long-term health benefits. Further research is warranted to refine UPF classifications and validate these findings across diverse populations.

Previous studies have also linked UPFs to various health issues, including cancer, mental health disorders, type 2 diabetes, and premature death. In Western countries, UPFs constitute a significant portion of daily dietary intake, reaching up to half of total food consumption.

To counteract these concerning trends, experts advocate for prioritizing unprocessed and minimally processed foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole animal products. These nutrient-rich options, comprising approximately 30% of the typical UK diet, offer essential nutrients without the detrimental additives found in ultra-processed alternatives.

This research underscores the urgency of public health initiatives aimed at reducing reliance on ultra-processed foods for improved overall health and longevity.

09/05/2024

Restrict sugar, salt, avoid protein supplements: ICMR's new dietary guidelines

ICMR has released a new set of dietary guidelines, saying that around 56.4% of the total disease burden in India is because of unhealthy diet habits.

Around 56.4% of the total disease burden in India is because of unhealthy diet habits, says ICMR.

Get fatty acid intake from nuts, oilseeds and seafood instead of cooking oil, as per ICMR's new dietary guidelines.

The research body urged people to "avoid protein supplements" for building body mass.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) released a set of dietary guidelines for Indians on Wednesday.

According to the guidelines to meet the requirements of essential nutrients and prevent noncommunicable diseases in the country, around 56.4% of the total disease burden in India is because of unhealthy diet habits.

The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) under the apex health research body, that revised the guidelines after 13 years, said that healthy diets and physical activity can reduce a substantial proportion of coronary heart disease (CHD) and hypertension (high blood pressure) and prevent up to 80% of type 2 diabetes.

"A significant proportion of premature deaths can be averted by following a healthy lifestyle," it said.

The 148-page report, which contains 17 guidelines, recommends decreasing the use of cooking oil and instead getting fatty acids through nuts, oilseeds and seafood.

The institute added that the high consumption of highly processed foods that contain sugars and fats, along with a lack of physical activity and limited access to diverse foods, have led to micronutrient deficiencies and overweight issues in the country.

Among the many guidelines, the body recommended restricting salt intake, consuming oils and fat in moderation, doing proper exercise and minimising sugar and ultra-processed foods. It said that Indians should consume 20-25 grams of sugar a day, since it comes from natural carbohydrates.

The Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs), led by Dr Hemalatha R, Director, ICMR-NIN has undergone several scientific reviews.

Dr Rajiv Bahl, Director General, ICMR, said, "I am pleased that these guidelines have been made very relevant to the changing food scenario in India with addition of practicable messages and suggestions on handling food safety choosing minimally processed foods, importance of food labels and physical activity."

The NIN has also urged people to "avoid protein supplements" for building body mass as well. It stated that prolonged intake of large amounts of protein powders or consumption of high protein concentrate has been associated with potential dangers such as bone mineral loss and kidney damage.

Research findings indicate dietary protein supplementation is associated with only a small increase in muscle strength and size during prolonged resistance exercise training (RET) in healthy adults.

Protein intake levels greater than 1.6g/kg body weight/day do not contribute further to RET-induced gains.

It also stated that sugar should be less than 5% of total energy intake and a balanced diet should provide not more than 45% calories from cereals, and millets and up to 15% of calories from pulses, beans and meat.

The rest of the calories should come from nuts, vegetables, fruits and milk. Total fat intake should be less than or equal to 30% energy, the guidelines said.

Courtesy India Today

11/03/2024

Amazingly Magical Health Benefits Of 'Roasted Chana' (Roasted ChickPeas)

Dry-roasted chickpeas, a popular munching snack in India, have stood the test of time. Whether it's a travel companion or a workplace nibble, roasted chana offers both delectable taste and nutritional goodness, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

1. Abundant Protein Content:
Numerous studies affirm chickpeas as a prime protein source. Even after roasting, their nutritional profile remains intact. Protein is vital for cell repair and growth, especially crucial for children, adolescents, and expectant mothers.

2. Weight Management Support:
Roasted chana boasts significant dietary fiber content. Research published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that fiber intake aids weight loss by reducing meal frequency and overall food intake. High-fiber foods promote satiety, aiding digestion and preventing constipation.

3. Diabetic-Friendly Snack:
With a low glycemic index (GI), chickpeas are a boon for diabetics. Foods with a low GI have minimal impact on blood sugar levels, making roasted chana an ideal snack option for managing diabetes.

4. Bone Health Booster:
Rich in manganese and phosphorus, roasted chana contributes to robust bone health. Studies cited by the NCBI highlight the role of these minerals in preventing bone-related ailments like osteoporosis and joint discomfort.

5. Cardiovascular Benefits:
Loaded with manganese, folate, phosphorus, and copper, roasted chana supports cardiovascular health. Phosphorus, in particular, enhances blood circulation, promoting heart wellness.

Indulge in roasted chana whenever the craving strikes, knowing you're nourishing your body with goodness.

02/02/2024

What Is Cervical Cancer ?
Model-actor Poonam Pandey died due to cervical cancer on Friday at the age of 32.

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed in women in India and accounts for 10% of all cancers in women.

It is now the eighth most commonly occurring cancer globally and the ninth leading cause of cancer death, with 6,61,044 new cases and 3,48,186 deaths that happened in the last year, as per the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix, which is the lower, narrow end of the uterus (womb), that connects to the va**na. Before the cancer appears in the cervix, the cells go through changes known as dysplasia, in which abnormal cells start to grow and spread more deeply into the cervix and then to the surrounding areas.

It is caused when a person has a sexually transmitted infection by a Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Although in some cases, the virus is removed by the body's immune system, in other cases, if the virus is an HPV 16 or HPV 18 - two of the most high-risk viruses - the chances of cervical cancer jump.

HPV is a group of 200 related viruses. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), nearly all sexually active people are infected with HPV at some point in their lives. While most HPV infections don't cause cancer, some types of infections can persist.

SYMPTOMS OF CERVICAL CANCER

Experts caution that in many cases, cervical cancer might not show apparent signs in the early stages.

However, as the infection spreads and abnormal cells grow, the symptoms begin to show in the form of unusual va**nal bleeding, including post-coital bleeding, bleeding between periods or after menopause, watery or foul-smelling va**nal discharge, and pelvic pain, especially during in*******se.

HOW TO DETECT CERVICAL CANCER?

A simple pap test can detect cancer cells in the cervix. This test can also detect abnormal cells that might change and become cancerous.

Testing for cervical cancer should begin as early as 21 to 29 years along with screening intervals ranging from three to five years, based on results.

IS CERVICAL CANCER PREVENTABLE?

Cervical cancer is a preventable and curable disease. It can be managed and cured effectively if it is detected early.

The best way, however, to prevent cervical cancer is by getting vaccinated. HPV vaccines are safe and crucial in preventing this type of cancer. India's first HPV vaccine called Cervavac was launched in January 2023. It targets four types of HPV infections.

TREATMENT FOR CERVICAL CANCER

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cervical cancer is treated in many ways, which include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during the Budget 2024-25 speech in Parliament on February 1, announced that the government encouraged the vaccination for girls aged 9 to 14 against cervical cancer.

18/10/2023

Powerful Health Benefits Of Jau (Barley) For Liver , Kidney , Diabetes, Detoxification Of Body

When it comes to weight loss, there is no single food or exercise that can help you get rid of unwanted fat from the body.

The combination of the right food and exercise is the most effective way to lose weight.

There are numerous small things that can speed up your weight loss process and one such ingredient is barley water.

Rich in fiber, barley is counted under the category of whole grains like oats and whole wheat. Barley is quite healthy and is considered good when you are on a weight-loss mission.

Nutritional value:
Barley is a major cereal grain and is a nutritional powerhouse. Half a cup of cooked barley contains:
Calories: 96
Fat: 1 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Carbohydrate: 22 g
Protein: 2 gDietary Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 2 mg
Manganese: 1 mg

It is true that barley water is high in calories, but very low in fat content. The fiber content in the barley water helps in easy digestion. It can make you fuller for a longer period and prevent you from getting indulged in unhealthy snacking, which is necessary when you are watching your weight.
Other health benefits of barley water
1. Lowers cholesterol
Drinking barley water every day helps to keep your cholesterol level in control. The antioxidant properties of barley water help to get rid of free radicals from the body, which keeps you healthy.

2. Controls blood sugar level
Barley water can also control your blood sugar level. This drink is quite beneficial for people suffering from diabetes.
3 Rich in vitamins and antioxidants
Barley water is rich in vitamins and antioxidants that enable healthy cell growth. It is packed with folate, iron, copper, and manganese.

How to prepare barley water
Ingredients:
Barley pearls -1 cup
Water -1.5 litres
Lemon juice -2 tablespoon
Honey -1 tablespoon
Cinnamon stick -1

Method:

Step 1: Add half cup Barley pearls in a pan. Now add 1.5 litres water and cinnamon stick in it and then let it boil.

Step 2: Let the pan be on simmer for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Turn the gas off and let the barley water cool for a while.

Step 4: Strain this concoction and add lemon juice and honey in it for flavour. Your Barely water is ready.
You can make it in large quantity and store in your refrigerator.

How to have it
To reap maximum benefits, drink barley water at least two times a day. You can have this drink anytime.

26/09/2023

The Next Pandemic: Disease X Is Deadlier Than COVID-19, Could Kill 50 Million People

A new book by two vaccine experts has warned that the world is not prepared for the next pandemic, which could be caused by any of the millions of unknown viruses lurking on our planet.

The authors claim that such a pandemic could kill 50 million people, just like the Spanish Flu did a century ago. Kate Bingham, the former chair of the UK Vaccine Taskforce, and Tim Hames, a former journalist and political adviser, have co-authored a book titled The Next Killer: How to Stop the Next Pandemic Before It Starts.

In an excerpt published in the Daily Mail, they explain how viruses are the most abundant and diverse life forms on Earth, and how many of them pose a threat to humans.

"There are more viruses busily replicating and mutating than all the other life forms on our planet combined. Not all of them pose a threat to humans, of course – but plenty do," they write.

They say that scientists have identified 25 virus families, each containing hundreds or thousands of different viruses, any of which could evolve to cause a pandemic.

They also warn that viruses could jump from animals to humans and mutate dramatically, as seen in the cases of Ebola, HIV/AIDS and Covid-19.

The Loming Danger Of Disease X
The authors' warning echoes the World Health Organization (WHO), which has also alerted the world of the possibility of an "inevitable" next pandemic, dubbed "Disease X".

The WHO coined the term in 2018, a year before the Covid-19 pandemic struck the world. It is among the WHO's "Blueprint list priority diseases" that could cause the next deadly pandemic and includes Ebola, SARS and Zika.

"Disease X represents the knowledge that a serious international epidemic could be caused by a pathogen currently unknown to cause human disease," the WHO said. The Blueprint list highlights infectious diseases for which we lack medical countermeasures.

Some public health experts believe that the next Disease X will be zoonotic, meaning it will originate in wild or domestic animals, then spill over to infect humans, as Ebola, HIV/AIDS and Covid-19.

The Need For Pandemic Preparedness
The authors argue that the Covid-19 pandemic, which killed some 20 million people globally, was not the worst-case scenario.

They point out that the virus had a relatively low fatality rate compared to other viruses such as Ebola, bird flu and MERS.

They say that the world cannot rely on luck to avoid the next pandemic, which could be much more deadly and contagious.

"The point is that the vast majority of people infected with the virus managed to recover. Ebola, on the other hand, has a fatality rate of around 67 per cent.
Bird flu is not far behind at 60 per cent. Even MERS hit 34 per cent. So we certainly can't bank on the next pandemic being easily contained," they write.

They call for urgent action to improve the world's pandemic preparedness, such as investing in vaccine research and development, strengthening health systems and surveillance, and enhancing global cooperation and coordination.

They say that the next pandemic is not a matter of if, but when, and that the world must be ready to face it.

Aarogya India

24/04/2025

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