Fitness - Loneliness and health - Loneliness in elderly

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Loneliness and elderly health Home > Loneliness and health - Loneliness in the elderly
Loneliness among elderly people has been connected to poor health, higher morbidity and mortality. Such feeling in the elderly may raise the potential for certain health risks including depression, suicidal tendency, increased stress, decreased memory, altered brain function, depressed immunity, high blood pressure and heart disease.

The meaning of loneliness

Loneliness may be defined as a lasting emotional state of estrangement, a feeling of being misunderstood, a feeling of rejection by others and lack of social partners for desired activities. This feeling often occurs in adolescents and aged people. However it is transient in adolescents. In elderly, it can lead to social isolation and reduced contacts with other people.

Loneliness and health of elderly

In the news release "Loneliness Linked to Serious Health Problems and Death Among Elderly" on June 18, 2012, Leland Kim (Senior Public Information Representative of University of California, San Francisco) informed that

Loneliness in elderly

"Loneliness — the unpleasant feeling of emptiness or desolation — can creep in and cause suffering to people at any age. But it can be especially debilitating to elderly and may predict serious health problems and even death, according to a new study by UCSF researchers ( Carla Perissinotto, MD, MHS et al)." The study found that only 18% persons above sixty years lived on their own. 43% of the elderly people surveyed suffered from loneliness. The study concluded that among the participants who were older than 60 years, it was a predictor of functional decline and death.

Regarding the health of people living in isolation, Michelle Mitchell, Charity Director General of Age UK said: "Living in isolation and loneliness is a stark reality for too many people in later life, and feelings of loneliness can have a significantly adverse effect on physical and mental well-being."

Causes of loneliness

Death of a life partner or a close friend, lack of companionship, chronic illness and lack of friends are the most common causes of seclusion. Lack of companionship and emotional support can cause elderly to internalize negative feelings which can compound the sense of isolation and affect their health. This feeling can affect both, mental and physical condition of the elderly people.
There is a well-established relationship between loneliness and aging. Natural aging process brings about a number of changes in a person. Decreased functional ability and efficiency impacts the health. The following aging related afflictions cause poor self-rating of health and seclusion:

• Decreased cardiac output
• Diminishing ability to respond to stress
• Loss of bone density
• Loss of muscle strength and size
• Decreased lung capacity
• Decreased gas exchange
• Degenerative diseases of joints
• Increased response time to stimuli
• Impaired vision
• Impaired hearing
• Cognitive decline
• Cognitive impairment
• Sleep disturbances
• Higher fatigue levels
• Decline of functional ability
• Reduced cerebral circulation affecting balance.

Coping with loneliness

With higher longevity coupled with reduced birth rates, the proportion of aged people in the population is increasing throughout the world. Immediate nationwide measures are required to reduce seclusion and isolation. Loneliness can be alleviated to a certain extent by activities, like reading, gardening, handcraft, light housework, television watching, keeping pets, attending social gathering or taking part in voluntary work.

Support from family and friends, regular contact with family, family involvement in their care and deep, engaging communication between the family members have immense positive effects in coping with loneliness. Forming groups to check the status of health of the elderly in the communities and neighborhood and involving young people in their care can go a long way towards mitigating their health problems and loneliness.

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References:
1. Leland Kim on June 18, 2012. Loneliness Linked to Serious Health Problems and Death Among Elderly. http://www.ucsf.edu/news/2012/06/12184/loneliness-linked-serious-health-problems-and-death-among-elderly.
2. Archana Singh and Nishi Misra. Loneliness, depression and sociability in old age. Ind Psychiatry J. 2009 Jan-Jun; 18(1): 51–55.
3. Age UK. Published on 28 September 2012 12:01 AM. http://www.ageuk.org.uk/latest-press/over-a-third-of-older-people-feel-lonely/

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Horseradish roots - Horseradish juice - Health benefits

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Horseradish juice - Health benefits

Home > Celery nutrients - Celery juice health benefits > Horseradish root juice health benefits

Horseradish roots and their juice have high nutritional value and immense health benefits. The horseradish plant belongs to Brassicaceae family, and species Armoracia rusticana. Horseradish is a perennial plant. It grows up to five feet (1.5 meters) and has long, white, tapered roots. Its edible medicinal roots and their juice are traditionally known for many health benefits. It is one among the cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts) known to contain glucosinolates. Glucosinolates are precursors to antimicrobial and antitumor compounds like allyl isothiocyanate and indoles.

Intact horseradish roots do not have any aroma. When the roots are cut or grated, a glucosinolate (sinigrin) present in the juices from the damaged cells is degraded by the enzyme myrosinase into a mustard oil (allyl isothiocyanate). Allyl isothiocyanate has a typical pungent odor. On exposure to air and heat, the cut roots loose their pungency and become dark with unpleasant bitter taste. They are mixed with vinegar to keep their quality and health benefits.

Picture of horseradish roots.
Image attribution: Anna reg

Health benefits of horseradish

• Traditionally horseradish roots and their juice are being used as medicine for treating a number of health conditions and ailments.
• In herbal medicine, horseradish juice is used for treating sinusitis, bronchitis and urinary tract infections.
• Its juice is used as rubefacient and rubbed on skin to stimulate blood circulation below the skin for relieving pains.
• Another health benefit is that its juice is a diuretic.
• Culinary benefits include use in sauce, salad and soup preparations.
• Horseradish is rich in vitamin C and also contains selenium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus.
• It also has dietary fibers, particularly soluble fibers.
• Glucosinolates, sinigrin and gluconasturtiin (phenethylglucosinolate), present in root juice impart many medicinal health benefits to horseradish.
• The extracted glucosinolates in fully developed roots contain 83%  sinigrin and 11% gluconasturtiin.

Antimicrobial health benefits of horseradish
Research studies have substantiated the use in herbal medicine for antimicrobial health benefits. Goos KH, Albrecht U and Schneider B. in their research studies compared treatment benefits of the herbal drug containing horseradish root juice with standard antibiotics. They found that herbal drug containing horseradish displayed a clear advantageous safety profile and benefits when compared with standard antibiotics in treating acute sinusitis, acute bronchitis and acute urinary tract infection.

Further it is found that horseradish root juice inhibits the development of antibiotic resistance by bacterial biofilms and multidrug-resistant bacteria. Jakobsen TH et al (Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.) found in their research studies that iberin, an isothiocyanate produced by horseradish exhibited the highest activity in blocking the bacterial communication, also known as quorum sensing (QS), which is essential for development of drug resistance in bacteria.

Antitumor effects and health benefits
Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) present in horseradish roots and its juice has antitumor properties. Zhang Y. (Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA) in his research studies "Allyl isothiocyanate as a cancer chemopreventive phytochemical" concluded that "Bioavailability of Allyl isothiocyanate is extremely high, as nearly 90% of orally administered AITC is absorbed.  Overall, Allyl isothiocyanate exhibits many desirable attributes of a cancer chemopreventive agent, and further studies are warranted in order to elucidate its mechanism of action and to assess its protective activity in humans." Hence there is a great possibility of horseradish roots juice having a greater role as a cancer preventive agent.

Horseradish should not be consumed in excess as it can irritate the gastrointestinal tract. People with peptic ulcers and children below four years should avoid horseradish juice.

The enzyme horseradish peroxidase, present in the root juice has extensive research benefits in molecular biology and biochemical research fields.

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Research references:
1. Jakobsen TH, Bragason SK, Phipps RK, Christensen LD, van Gennip M, Alhede M, Skindersoe M, Larsen TO, Høiby N, Bjarnsholt T, Givskov M. Food as a source for quorum sensing inhibitors: iberin from horseradish revealed as a quorum sensing inhibitor of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Appl Environ Microbiol. 2012 Apr;78(7):2410-21. Epub 2012 Jan 27. PMID: 22286987
2. Zhang Y. Allyl isothiocyanate as a cancer chemopreventive phytochemical. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2010 Jan;54(1):127-35.
3. Goos KH, Albrecht U, Schneider B. (Repha GmbH, Biologische Arzneimittel, Langenhagen.)Efficacy and safety profile of a herbal drug containing nasturtium herb and horseradish root in acute sinusitis, acute bronchitis and acute urinary tract infection in comparison with other treatments in the daily practice/results of a prospective cohort study. Arzneimittelforschung. 2006;56(3):249-57. PMID: 16618018

Current Daily Health News and Tips topic:
Horseradish roots juice health benefits.

Source of horseradish roots image: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kren_Verkauf.jpg (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) - Health benefits of cloves

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Health benefits of cloves

Home > Spices for diabetes > Health benefits of cloves

Cloves and their essential aromatic oil have immense health benefits and therapeutic values. The binomial name of clove tree is Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merrill & Perry and its synonyms are Eugenia aromatica (L.) Baill and Eugenia caryophyllata. Syzygium aromaticum tree is a native of Maluku islands in Indonesia belonging to order Myrtales and family Myrtaceae. They are now primarily cultivated in Southeastern Asia (Indonesia, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) and East Africa (Zanzibar, Tanzania and Madagascar).

Cloves are actually dried flower buds of Syzygium aromaticum and are used in cuisines all over the world. These unopened flower buds of Syzygium aromaticum with many health benefits, have long calyx bearing four sepals and a small ball of unopened petals. They are harvested when they are about one cm. long  and are ripe red in color. Syzygium aromaticum trees are probagated by seeds having very short viability and are to be planted soon after the ripening of the fruit.

Indonesia is the leading grower of Syzygium aromaticum cloves and much of the produce is used domestically. Much of the Syzygium aromaticum clove production in Indonesia is used in "kreteks", very popular aroma cigarettes. Bulk of Indian use of cloves is in their cuisine and in their traditional systems of health care and medicines. As they are dried buds, they can be stored and used through out the year.

Image of dried cloves
(Syzygium aromaticum)

Active components and nutrients in Syzygium aromaticum cloves
The active components having health benefits are in its clove oil, which is nearly 15% of weight of the dried flower buds. Eugenol is an aromatic compound present in the oil giving cloves their very strong aroma and spicy taste. Eugenol constitutes nearly 80% of the oil. Eugenol acetate (10%) beta-caryophyllene (5%) and triterpene oleanolic acid are the other chemical components present in clove oil. The oil of Syzygium aromaticum is highly potent irritant and should be diluted with other vegetable oils before therapetic use.
The cloves of Syzygium aromaticum also have health benefits of containing minerals like potassium, manganese, iron and selenium. Presence of vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B 1 (thiamin), riboflavin and vitamin C add to its immense health benefits.

Health benefits of cloves in traditional medicine
In traditional medicine of India and China, Syzygium aromaticum cloves occupy an important place, providing health benefits by anagesic, antiinflammatory and dental anesthetic activities. Its other traditional benefits are ant and mosquito repelling properties. Traditional benefits of dried flower buds of Syzygium aromaticum are as follows:

• general analgesic,
• antiinflammatory agent,
• anti-microbial health benefits,
• mouth freshener,
• toothache and headache reliever,
• rubefacient for arthritis and rheumatism,
• reliever of flatulence,
• reliever of diarrhea, stomach and bowel ailments,
• carminative health benefits,
• antiemetic,
• aphrodisiac and
• natural anthelmintic.

Antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral health benefits of Syzygium aromaticum cloves.

• Bacteria: Eugenol, the main constituent of Syzygium aromaticum oil, exhibits broad spectrum antibacterial activities against Gram-positive, Gram-negative and acid-fast bacteria.
• Virus: Tellimagrandin II, an ellagitannin, found in Syzygium aromaticum flower buds is found to show anti-herpesvirus properties.
• Eugeniin, a new ellagitannin isolated from cloves, is found to have anti-herpesvirus properties.
• Fungus: Eugénia Pinto et al in their study "Antifungal activity of the clove essential oil from Syzygium aromaticum on Candida, Aspergillus and dermatophyte species" have found that clove essential oil, obtained from Syzygium aromaticum showed remarkable anti-fungal and inhibitory activity against all tested strains of Candida, Aspergillus, clinical dermatophytes, fluconazole-resistant strains and American Type Culture Collection strains.

Uses of cloves of Syzygium aromaticum in dentistry
Considering the benefits of Syzygium aromaticum, in many dental products cloves are being included. The use of cloves in relieving toothache is a well known home remedy. When a bud of clove is pressed on the site of pain, there is relief due to its numbing local-anesthetic effect. Further its antimicrobial and antinflammatory activity reduces the infection and related inflammation in the tooth. Chewing a clove gives the health benefits of bad breath control and reduction of microbial load in the mouth.

Antioxidant and anti-diabetic health benefits of Syzygium aromaticum flower buds
Nangle MR, Gibson TM, Cotter MA and Cameron NE in their study "Effects of eugenol on nerve and vascular dysfunction in streptozotocin-diabetic rats." (Planta Med. 2006 May;72(6):494-500.) found that 'aspects of both vascular and neural complications in experimental diabetes are improved by eugenol, which could have potential therapeutic implications for diabetic neuropathy and vasculopathy'.



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Current Daily Health News & Tips topic:
Health benefits of cloves (Syzygium aromaticum or Eugenia aromatica).

Image by Brian Arthur (GNU Free Documentation License)
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:ClovesDried.jpg

References:
1. Eugénia Pinto, Luís Vale-Silva, Carlos Cavaleiro and Lígia Salgueiro. Antifungal activity of the clove essential oil from Syzygium aromaticum on Candida, Aspergillus and dermatophyte species. Journal of Medical Microbiology. J Med Microbiol November 2009 vol. 58 no. 11 1454-1462.  
2. Debjit bhowmik, K.P.Sampath Kumar*, Akhilesh Yadav, Shweta Srivastava, Shravan Paswan,
Amit sankar Dutta. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry. Vol. 1 No. 1 2012. Recent Trends in Indian Traditional Herbs Syzygium Aromaticum (cloves) and its Health Benefits.

Back pain from heavy backpacks - Prevent back pain in children

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Back pain from heavy backpacks

Home > Knee pain remedies > Prevent back pain in children - Back pain from heavy backpacks.

Back pain is becoming a common health problem in children and carrying heavy backpacks increases the risk many fold. To prevent the risk of chronic back pain, children must be taught not to get backpacks heavy and also shown the correct way of carrying them. Any persistent back pain complained by children, even without lifting anything heavy, should be evaluated by medical professional, as it could be due to some serious health issue with muscles or vertebrae in the back or internal organs.

Health risks in carrying heavy backpacks

Initially the back pain due to strain of back muscles could be of short duration, which can be resolved with rest and reduced activity. Apart from straining the muscles of the back, neck and shoulder, carrying heavy backpacks prevents proper development of still-forming bones and muscles in children. Carrying heavy weight can put unnatural heavy stress on the young vertebral column and rib cage. Prevent distortion of the natural curve of the middle and lower back as otherwise it can lead to chronic pain and scoliosis.

Illustration of lumbar region
lower back pain

There are conflicting views by the medical community to prevent the possibility of development of back pain in children due to carrying heavy backpacks. Our common sense should prevail and we have to prevent the risk and pain involved in their carrying disproportionate amounts of heavy weight.

What experts say about heavy backpacks.

American Chiropractic Association (ACA), an association of health care professionals concerned to diagnosis treat and prevent of disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system, has offered certain tips and advice on the use of heavy backpacks by children at http://www.acatoday.org/content_css.cfm?CID=65.

Skaggs DL el al, (of Children's Orthopaedic Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, and the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA), in a population-based study of a sample of 1540 school-goers aged 11-14 years, have arrived at certain findings. They found that back pain is associated with use of a heavy backpack and that it is more prevalent in younger children and in girls. Their carrying heavy weights seemed to be directly proportional to the likelihood of back pain.

Paloma Rodríguez-Oviedo et al in their short research report (2011) concluded that carrying heavy backpacks increases the risk of back pain and possibly the risk of back pathology. The prevalence of school children carrying heavy backpacks is extremely high. Educational activities should be implemented in this age group to prevent them from carrying heavy weights.

Tips to prevent back pain in children from heavy backpacks.

• Backpack must not be heavy and the overall weight of the backpacks must not exceed the 10% of the body weight of the children.
• Heavy backpacks make the children to bend forward to support the weight on their back instead of shoulders.
• Weight must be evenly distributed on both the shoulders by proper strapping.
• Multiple dividers help in keeping the books in place prevent abrupt shifts disturbing the balance.
• Placing heavy books closer to the back distributes the weight to shoulders.
• A padded back is more comfortable and prevents poking by notebook edges, pens, pencils and rulers.
• The straps must be adjustable, padded, wide and placed apart to prevent pinching or squeezing of the shoulder or neck region.
• Tight and narrow straps dig into shoulders and neck, pinch nerves and prevent proper blood circulation.
• Both the shoulder straps should be used to prevent disproportionate shift of heavy weight to one side.
• Carrying the bag by hand or using one shoulder strap can lead to posture problems and scoliosis.
• Children must be encouraged to wear waist belt, as it helps in even distribution of weight.
• The correct size of the bag is of importance to prevent stuffing and making it heavy.
• Low hanging backpack makes the user to lean forward shifting the weight to back.
• It should be strapped so that it does not hang more than 3-4 inches below the waistline.

Although roller packs are comfortable, they become a bother while lugging them on stairs and also can become a tripping hazard to other students. Introduction of e-textbooks and educational software may reduce the burden and prevent back pain in children by not requiring to carry heavy backpacks.


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'Daily Health News and Tips' current topic:
Prevent back pain in children due to heavy backpacks.

References:
1. American Chiropractic Association (ACA) topic on how to prevent carrying heavy weight by schoolgoers. (http://www.acatoday.org/content_css.cfm?CID=65).
2. Skaggs DL, Early SD, D'Ambra P, Tolo VT, Kay RM. Back pain and backpacks in school children. J Pediatr Orthop. 2006 May-Jun;26(3):358-63. PMID:16670549.
3. Paloma Rodríguez-Oviedo1, Alberto Ruano-Ravina2,3, Mónica Pérez-Ríos2, Francisco Blanco García4, Dorotea Gómez-Fernández1, Anselmo Fernández-Alonso1, Isabel Carreira-Núñez1, Pilar García-Pacios1, Javier Turiso5. Short research report. School children's backpacks, back pain and back pathologies. Arch Dis Child doi:10.1136/archdischild-2011-301253.

Celery Nutrients - Health Benefits of Celery Juice

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Health benefits of celery juice

 Home > Barley grass juice health benefits > Celery nutrients and juice health benefits

Celery and its juice have immense nutritional value and many health benefits. Celery belongs to the family Apiaceae (aka Umbelliferae) and species Apium graveolens. It is a biennial vegetable having a life cycle of two years, grows up to one meter in height and has pinnate to bipinnate leaves. In celery the leaves are carried on long green stalks joined at the bulbous root.

The green leaves, stalks and bulbous root are rich sources of vitamins, dietary minerals, dietary fiber, antioxidants and other nutrients giving many health benefits.

Nutrients in celery and its juice

     As per the USDA Nutrient Database, 100 grams of raw celery has 95 gms of water and the other nutrients making up the remaining 5%. Celery in dry flakes form gives 319 kcl energy and contains:

Protein	11.30 gms
Total lipid (fat)	2.10 gms
Carbohydrate	63.70 gms
Total dietary fiber	27.80 gms
Sugars	35.90 gms

Mineral nutrients

Calcium	587.00 mg
Iron	7.83 mg
Magnesium	196.00 mg
Phosphorus	402.00 mg
Potassium	4388.00 mg
Sodium	1435.00 mg
Zinc	2.77 mg

Vitamin nutrients

Vitamin C	86.50 mg
Thiamin	0.44 mg
Riboflavin	0.50 mg
Niacin	4.64 mg
Vitamin B 6	0.46 mg
Folate, DFE	107.00 mcg
Vitamin E	5.55 mg
Vitamin K	584.20 µg
Vitamin A	1962 IU

     Celery and its juice contain very high amounts of nutrients like vitamin K which benefit us in blood coagulation. Vitamin K also has a vital role in metabolic pathways in bone and other tissues. Celery is a good source of Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B5 and vitamin B6. Among minerals nutrients celery and its juice contain good amounts of potassium, Calcium, magnesium, manganese and sodium. The high content of nutrients like dietary fiber gives health benefits like lowering of glycemic index and blood sugar.

Image of celery plant
https://commons.wikimedia.org
User:Popolon (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Health benefits of antioxidants in celery juice

     The major antioxidants in celery juice are vitamin A, vitamin C and coumarins. The juice also contains antioxidant flavonoids like apigenin and luteolin. During the biochemical metabolic processes in the human body free-radicals are formed which cause oxidative stress to body and can start chain reactions inside the cells causing damage or death of cells. Antioxidants inhibit oxidation of other molecules by neutralising the free-radicals and extend many health benefits. Oxidative stress contributes to development of many diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, osteoarthritis, diabetes and neurodegeneration.

Hypertension lowering health benefits

The phthalides (sedanenolide and 3n-butylphthalide) present in celery, especially its seeds, are found to be effective in the treatment of high blood pressure. Phthalides show anti-hypertension effects by  relaxing the wall muscles of arteries, improving microcirculation and reducing the body fluids. Further celery also contains phytochemical nutrients known as coumarins. These phytochemicals show anti-hypertension activity.

Illustration of capillary microcirculation

Fluid and electrolyte balance health benefits
     The presence of good amounts of nutrients like calcium, potassium and sodium in celery juice helps in maintenance of  water-electrolyte balance. Electrolytes like calcium, potassium and sodium play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis within the body. These nutrients are important for  regulating muscle, heart and neurological functions, maintaining fluid balance, acid-base balance and oxygen transport.

Anti-cancer health benefits
     The coumarin compounds present in celery juice are reported to have anti-cancer activity. Other health benefits reported for coumarin compound nutrients include anti-HIV, antiseptic, pain relief, anti-arrhythmia, anti-inflammatory, bronchodilating, anti-osteoporosis and anti-lymphedema effects.

Allergies and anaphylactic shock due to celery juice?
     Like peanuts, celery and its juice also has some allergens which can trigger severe allergic reactions sometimes leading to anaphylactic shock. Its seeds have the highest amount of allergens followed by roots and then stalks. Unlike peanut allergy which is most prevalent in United States, allergy to celery is most prevalent in Central European countries. However health benefits of juice outweigh possible allergies.

     After a workout celery juice is a perfect health drink as it benefits the body by replacing lost eletrolytes, especially nutrients like sodium.


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Health tips - Exercise and summer - Exercising in the heat

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Exercise in summer heat Physical health definition > Health tips for exercising in the summer heat

Is it safe to exercising in the summer heat?

Yes. With cautious planning one can safely exercise in the summer heat. Uncontrolled increase in body's temperature is the greatest danger  we should avoid. It is worth noting that summer itself is stressful to most of us. Adding the stress of exercising during summer has synergistic stress effect on the heart and also on the body's cooling mechanism. A high body temperature affects the brain function and the drive to exercise. Hence a carefully planned exercise regimen is necessary to cope with the temperature stress as well as exercise stress.

Image: Cool exercise
in summer heat

Heat acclimation tips

You have to acclimate your body to exercise in summer so that your heart is not stressed much. Initially a short aerobic exercise bout of 10-15 minutes or less must be attempted. Gradually increase it to 30-60 minutes per session over a period of 10-15 days. By this gradual acclimation, at a given exercise intensity heart rate as well as body core temperature decreases whereas the sweating and cooling rate increases. The relative loss of electrolytes in the sweat also decreases with acclimation. Without acclimating even healthy persons may become stressed. Please note that the beneficial effect of acclimation will be lost and there will be rapid de-acclimation, if a person discontinues exercising in heat conditions for 3-4 weeks period. Then this person has to acclimate himself all over again.

Ideal time for exercising in the summer

If the ambient temperature is above 90°F and the humidity is above 60%, it is better to curtail exercise to protect yourself from injury.

• According to the heat stress index of The American Council on Exercise, under normal circumstances there is no harm in exposure at a temperature below 80°F (27°C).
• Fatigue is possible with prolonged exposure at 80–90°F (27–32°C).
• Heat cramps and exhaustion are possible at 90–105°F (32–41°C).
• Cramps and exhaustion is likely and  heatstroke is possible 105–130°F (41–54°C).
• At a temperature over 130°F (54°C) heatstroke is imminent.  

It is better to beat the summer by having the session in the early morning or late in the evening in summer.

Humidity and summer
Sweating cools your body by taking away the heat from your skin during evaporation. When the weather is humid and the air is already near saturated with moisture the sweat remains on the skin as it cannot evaporate. In such a situation the body temperature keeps increasing during exercise and stress may result.

Dress for exercising in the summer
Wear minimal, loose-fitting, lightweight and water absorbing clothing while exercising in summer. Tight-fitting thick clothing impermeable to water will hamper the evaporation of sweat and subsequent cooling of the skin and cause heat injury. Light-colored clothing reflects the sun rays away. Though head helps in cooling the body, it can also increase temperature in sun exposure. If the exercise is outdoor, wear loose-fitting hat to protect yourself from summer sun.

Stay hydrated while exercising in the summer heat

As a daily routine, thirty minutes before start of exercise make sure that you are sufficiently hydrated by taking copious amounts of water. Avoid drinks containing caffeine or alcohol  as they dehydrate you. During the session, for every 15-20 minutes take a break to drink water. At the end of the session drink fluids till the thirsty feeling ceases. If the session extends beyond 60 minutes consider drinking sport drink to replace lost electrolyte salts in the sweat.

Dangerous side effects of overdoing in summer

Hyperthermia denotes a bunch of body-temperature-related illness caused by high temperature of the body. If the body temperature goes beyond 100°F and if the humidity is also high, there is always the danger of hyperthermia. The balance between the heat made by the body and that it loses, goes haywire.

In such a situation a person may suffer heat syncope with symptoms like light-headedness, dizziness and fainting. Resting in a cool place, drinking water and putting legs up may relieve the symptoms.

Some people suffer cramps with raised body temperature in summer. These cramps are painful tightening of muscles of legs, arms or stomach. Resting in a cool place and drinking water may relieve the cramps.

Heat exhaustion shows symptoms like thirsty feeling, dizziness, weakness, nausea and lack of coordination. There may be profuse sweating and the skin may feel cold and sticky. The pulse rate may go up. Stop exercise immediately. Resting in a cool place and taking lots of fluids may correct the condition. If the condition persists take immediate medical help. If immediate action is not taken this may lead to heat stroke.

The symptoms of heat stroke are fainting, confused behavior, dry skin, rapid or slow pulse, staggering and leading to coma. In such a situation immediate hospitalization and medical aid is required. Please remember that it is a life-threatening situation.

To summarize, following the above health tips can keep one safe while exercising daily in the summer heat.

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Current topic:
Health tips for exercising in the summer heat



References:
1.The American Council on Exercise; www.acefitness.org
2.National Institutes of Health — Heat Illness; www.health.nih.gov/topic/HeatIllness 

Daily health news - Diesel engine exhaust causes cancer - IARC

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Diesel engine exhaust causes cancer WHO > Diesel engine exhaust fumes and health effects like cancer

IARC, considering the health effects of diesel engine exhaust fumes on humans, has classified it as carcinogenic to humans (cancer causing). The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), is the cancer research and monitoring arm of the World Health Organization (WHO). On June 12 2012, IARC, after a week-long meeting of international experts on carcinogenic health effects of diesel engine exhaust fumes, has made a press release announcing the classification of diesel engine exhaust as carcinogenic to humans. The classification was announced from Lyon, France, after considering the scientific findings on the health effects and cancer-causing potential of diesel exhaust fumes.

Now diesel fumes find a place among other known listed items with carcinogenic effects like tobacco smoke, solar radiation, UV radiation, mustard gas, chronic infection with Hepatitis B/C virus, postmenopausal estrogen therapy, formaldehyde, ethanol in alcoholic beverages, asbestos, benzene, arsenic and arsenic compounds.

An illustration of typical
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Earlier in 1988, IARC had classified diesel exhaust fumes as "probably carcinogenic to humans". The review of the classification was recommended in 1998. The requirement of the review was further re-emphasized by findings of US National Cancer Institute, published on March 6, 2012 on 'Heavy Diesel Exhaust Linked to Lung Cancer Deaths in Miners (https://www.cancer.gov/).
The research findings are from the 'Diesel Exhaust in Miners Study' (DEMS) taken up in 1992 by jointly by National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
The study was done on non-metal miners and it revealed that the increasing exposure to diesel engine fumes had serious health effects and risk of death from lung carcinoma increased with increased exposure.
In everyday life most of us get exposed to these diesel engine fumes either through occupation or through the ambient air.
Diesel engine fumes contain obnoxious gases and fine particles of carbon surrounded by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) that enter the body through mouth and nose and leave a coating of deposits in the lungs.
Though the human body removes these particles by coughing, The effects of continuous exposure to these deposits causes cancer.

The results of this study are important not only to miners but also to millions of workers working in environments heavy with diesel engine fumes, people living in very congested cities, people working in underground transit systems and people exposed to traffic snarls for considerable time.

Now that the adverse health effects are known, it is time for enforcing environment guidelines for engine exhaust fumes.
Introduction of more efficient engines and machinery with low diesel exhaust emissions, improved ventilation of closed work places and use of appropriate respiratory protective equipment will go long way in reversing negative health effects caused so far by diesel engine exhaust fumes and protect ourselves from lung cancer.

Daily health tips - Amla fruit - Amla juice - Health benefits

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Nutrition, Health & Wellness

Amla juice health benefits Physical health > Amla fruit and juice health benefits

> Amla fruit and its juice have immense nutritional value and many health benefits. Amla aka Indian gooseberry, belongs to Phyllanthaceae family and  species Phyllanthus emblica (syn. Emblica officinalis). It is a deciduous medium size tree with edible fruit. The fruit are hard and spherical in shape with six vertical stripes or furrows. The unripe fruit are light green in color whereas ripe fruit are light greenish yellow. Amla fruit is fibrous and tastes slightly bitter, astringent and very sour. Amla is consumed as such or its juice, powder or pickle is prepared and consumed.
Image of Indian gooseberry - Amla fruit
Phyllanthus emblica
Health benefits of amla fruit juice
Health benefits of amla fruit are in its juice which is very rich in vitamin C (ascorbic acid), and antioxidants like ellagitannins, polyphenols, ellagic acid, gallic acid and flavonoids. The presence of these contribute to its antimicrobial, antiviral, cholesterol lowering, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, hypoglycemic, hypotriglyceridemic and anticarcinogenic health benefits. To reap the full health benefits of amla fruit it must be eaten raw or its juice must be consumed.

Antimicrobial health benefits of amla fruit juice
Many bacterial strains have been found to be eliminated by amla fruit juice. In an investigation focussed on the effects of amla juice and aqueous decoctions on bacteria like Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, K. ozaenae, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, S. paratyphi A, S. paratyphi B and Serratia marcescens, a very potent antibacterial activity was observed. (Saeed S, Tariq P.,
Department of Microbiology, University of Karachi, Pakistan PMID: 17337425). Saini A et al (Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India / PMID: 19001683) reported that health benefits of long term feeding of amla extract is protection against respiratory tract infection induced by Klebsiella pneumoniae. Oral fungal infections by Candida albicans and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections have been treated successfully with amla fruit juice.

Possible positive role of amla juice in alleviation of  rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis
The amount of bone tissue is controlled by osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Osteoblast benefits bone tissue health by matrix formation whereas osteoclasts remove the matrix by bone resorption. In rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis there is bone destruction and loss involving osteoclasts. In vivo amla extract and juice were used to induce programmed apoptosis (cell death) of mature osteoclasts successfully without altering the process of osteoclastogenesis. Induced cell death of osteoclasts may benefits health by interrupting  rheumatoid arthritis complications leading to skeletal and joint destruction. The apoptosis of osteoclasts may prevent and reduce osteoporosis. (Letizia Penolazzi et al, https://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/8/59,(CC BY 2.0),  PMCID: PMC2587459)

Antitumor effects and health benefits
Amla fruit juice is found to inhibit tumor growth and to help in killing the malignant cells. Research studies were conducted to find out the potential anticancer and antitumor effects of amla aqueous extract (juice). The results suggest that amla extract exhibits antitumor activity, reduces the tumor numbers and volume, induces apoptosis of tumor cells and inhibits invasiveness. Amla juice possibly has a function as chemopreventive and antiinvasive agent. (Ngamkitidechakul, C., Jaijoy, K., Hansakul, P., Soonthornchareonnon, N. and Sireeratawong, S. (2010), Antitumour effects of phyllanthus emblica L.: Induction of cancer cell apoptosis and Inhibition of in vivo tumour promotion and in vitro invasion of human cancer cells. Phytother. Res., 24: 1405–1413. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3127/ PMID 20812284)

Antidiabetic effect
Research results have confirmed that aqueous fruit extract (juice) of P. emblica has a sinificant hypoglycemic activity. This antidiabetic activity further contributes to hypotriglyceridemic effects. (Shamim A. Qureshi, Warda Asad and Viqar Sultana, 2009. The Effect of Phyllantus emblica Linn on Type - II Diabetes, Triglycerides and Liver - Specific Enzyme. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 8: 125-128).

Cataract prevention in diabetics and health benefits
The secondary complication in diabetes like cataract are brought about by Aldose reductase (AR). The tannoids present in amla inhibited and prevented aldose reductase activation and reduced osmotic stress. (Suryanarayana P et al, Biochemistry Division, National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad, India /PMID: 15031705)

Health benefits in prevention of heart diseases
The antioxidants present in amla fruit extend health benefits by bringing down the levels of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and neutralizing the free -radicals, the primary causes of hypertension and heart diseases. Oral administration of amla fruit juice significantly benefits in  hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol levels). Hence its juice benefits as an effective agent for prevention of atherosclerosis. (Kim HJ et al, Institute of Natural Medicine, Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Japan, PMID: 16521700). The total serum cholesterol and its lipoprotein fractions were decreased in normal and hypercholesterolaemic men when amla was included in their diet. (Jacob A et al, Department of Foods and Nutrition, Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi, India / health benefits PMID: 3250870)

Considering the health benefits, Amla fruit is also used in hair care products and its juice is recommended in many beauty recipes.

Topic on interesting health benefits :
Loud music - Hearing damage and loss
Image attribution: en.wikipedia.org/L. Shyamal/(cc-by-2.5)

Daily health tips - How to stop chocolate cravings?

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How to stop chocolate cravings? For most of us chocolate is irresistible and it is almost impossible to stop chocolate cravings. Understanding its beneficial and adverse effects on health makes it easy to control or stop the cravings.

Some facts about chocolate

This sweet cocoa product is made from the seeds of the cacao plant, native to South America. The mature seeds are fermented and dried. After cleaning they are roasted and the shell is removed to get cocoa nibs (pieces of kernel). Pure and rough form is obtained by grinding the cocoa nibs into cocoa mass. This is also called chocolate liquor as it is liquefied and molded for various uses. This liquor is also processed to make cocoa solids and cocoa butter.
Baking chocolate: This is the raw and pure form without other ingredients or sugar, containing varying proportions of cocoa solids and cocoa butter. It is the starter for various other forms.
Sweet chocolate: This is the most consumed form and made from cocoa solids, cocoa butter, sugar or sweeteners, oils or fat and other flavoring agents. This is the form for which many people develop cravings.
Milk chocolate: This has cocoa solids, cocoa butter, sugar and milk in it.
White chocolate: This form contains, cocoa butter, milk, sugar. Cocoa solids are not added to it.
Sugar is the main ingredient making, otherwise bitter tasting, raw chocolate edible. This added sugar leads to many health problems. In fact dark chocolate, having minimal sugar and cocoa butter has many health benefits.

Tips on how to stop chocolate cravings?

Nutrient mineral cravings: It is rich in magnesium and if an individual has nutritional deficiency of magnesium, he may develop cravings for its source.
Women during periods lose considerable amount iron from their body and they develop chocolate cravings as it has considerable amounts of iron in it.
In such cases taking supplements containing magnesium or iron will satiate the desire.

Sugar cravings: Actually it may be sweet cravings, possibly due to hormonal imbalances in serotonin and insulin.
In such cases consult a doctor for treatment of the disorder. Unhealthy dieting, sipped meals and energy starvation also trigger desire for sweets which our mind may associate with chocolate. Consult a dietitian for your food schedule.
Mood boosting: Chocolates contain some amounts caffeine phenylethylamine and anandamide.  These chemicals give the feeling of well being and euphoria.
As these have mood boosting effects, loneliness and boredom may trigger the cravings. Keep yourself in positive mood and make yourself  busy with interesting activities. Going in for mood boosting activities and entertainment will make you oblivious of this sweet.
Underlying psychological issues: Individuals lacking love, and self-confidence may try to find solace with their sweets. Analysis of these deeper emotions with a help of a counsellor may do lots of good.

Chocolatesimage credit: eszter - Flickr

Have a partner in quitting: If a close friend or a family member is also inclined to stop chocolate cravings it becomes much easier as both of you can plan your actions and guide one another.
Brisk walk: In some studies it was found that a brisk walk or exercise for 15 minutes can reduce the desire.
Resisting the temptations may not be easy but very much possible. Condition your mind and focus on all its possible negative impacts on your health. Then it gets easier to stop chocolate cravings.


Related daily health tips:
Tips for losing weight without starving
Tips for preventing muscle cramps
Current topic: Tips to Stop chocolate cravings

Soft drinks and health effects

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Soft drinks and health effects Soft drinks consumption is being associated to many health problems like heart diseases, obesity, type 11 diabetes, tooth decay, nutritional depletion and low nutritional levels. Soft drinks can be equated to liquid candies, and the first victim of their frequent consumption is tooth.
The high levels of carbohydrates and simple sugars present in them tend to ferment in oral cavity and affect the dental health by the formation of dental plaque and tooth decay. Further, most of the soft drinks are acidic in nature due to the ingredients used and also due to carbonating them.

When soft drinks are carbonated with carbon dioxide they turn acidic due formation of carbonic acid. The quantity of carbonic acid is directly proportionate to the amount of pressure of carbon dioxide over the liquid. Tooth decay
Slow sipping of these beverages (acidic in nature) over a period of time can affect dental health by eroding the tooth enamel and causing cavities. Drinking soft drinks through a straw must be preferred as the beverage gets swallowed from the rear end of the mouth giving less exposure to teeth.

Chronic consumption of these beverages has been found to give rise to health problems like low potassium levels (hypokalemia). There is a possibility of more excretion of calcium and lowered intake of calcium when these drinks are consumed frequently leading to loss of bone density.

Unless fortified with nutrients, these drinks are very low in vitamins, minerals, proteins, essential fatty acids and essential amino acids required for general health. Soft drinks deliver high food energy and calories and frequent consumption can give rise to obesity, diabetes and related cardiac health problems.

Physical health definition

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Physical health definition The definition of health by WHO states that "It is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity".
In the definition of physical health it can be stated that "it is an important part of the overall well-being of a person. It includes fitness, agility, cardiovascular condition, endurance, muscular strength etc."

It is a state of complete well-being in which a person is totally fit to perform his daily routine activities without any hindrance. This description is very broad and covers every aspect of outward activities by our body and also perfect performance of our internal organs.
Physical health
Our outward activities like, walking, running, seeing, hearing etc. must be fine tuned and normal. Our internal organ systems and their activities must be perfect and normal in a state of fitness.

Hence another definition of physical health may be stated as "a way to maintain our well-being and fitness with activities which enhance our overall well-being by sufficient exercise and right type of nutrition."

Social health definition

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Social health definition In the definition of health, the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasises the three aspects of physical, mental and social well being.
Hence the definition can be 'a resource for everyday life, not the objective of living. It is a positive concept emphasizing personal and collective resources, as well as physical and mental capacities.' It is also 'a way to remove health disparities.'

Healthcare inequality (also called health disparity in some countries) refers to growing gaps in quality of healthcare and its access across ethnic, racial, gender and economic groups. There are population-specific differences in the presence of disease, well being, or access to healthcare.

Another definition is 'methods to lessen the effects of social determinants on the well being of individuals and societies. These determinants with ramifying effects are the social and economic conditions that shape the health of communities, individuals, and jurisdictions as a whole.

These conditions determine whether one will remain healthy or become ill. These determinants are about the quantity and quality of a variety of resources that a society makes available to its members. These determinants also decide the extent to which a individual possesses the personal and physical resources to satisfy needs, identify and achieve personal wishes and aspirations, cope with the environment and face exigencies (a broader definition of social health).

Public health definition

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Public health definition

Definition in wikipedia

The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting well being through the organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private, communities and individuals." (definition in wikipedia)

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_health

Definition in Wiktionary

The science and practice of community hygiene; includes preventive medicine, health education, sanitation and environmental safety

en.wiktionary.org/wiki/health

Definition in Medterms medical dictionary

The approach to medicine that is concerned with the health of the community as a whole.

It has been said that: "Health care is vital to all of us some of the time, but public health is vital to all of us all of the time." (definition in medterms medical dictionary)

www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp

This science is divided into fields like biostatistics, environment, social behaviour, epidemiology, occupation and epidemiology.

This public service has two distinct characteristics. The first characteristic deals with preventive rather than curative aspects.

The second characteristic deals with population-level, rather than individual-level of issues.

Now the focus of this social service is to prevent rather than treat a disease through surveillance, follow up and monitoring of cases and the promotion of cleanliness.

In addition, in most cases treating a disease can be vital and important to preventing its spread to others, such as during an outbreak of infectious epidemic.

It is also equally important to protect a community from contaminated food or water sources.

Vaccination programs and distribution of medical face masks are examples of public health measures.

Mental health definition

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Mental health definition

Mental health is an important, essential and integral constituent of health.

The WHO definition states: "Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."

Hence on the basis of the above definition, we can redefine mental health as a state of complete psychological well-being and not merely the absence of psychological disabilities or disorders.

WHO definition

The WHO defines as "a being of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community".

Emotional wellness is not only the foundation for individual well-being but also foundation for the effective functioning of a community.

Psychological wellness is a positive attribute which contributes to emotional well-being, creativity and capacity to take on the challenges of life.

At any point of time, wellness of a person's mind is determined by many biological, psychological and social factors.

Persistent stress and socio-economic pressures affect the emotional well-being of individuals and communities.

Hence its definition is more than the mere absence of a mental illness or disorder.

Education, culture, physical health and society can have great impact on the mind and health of a person.

World health organization (WHO) definition

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WHO health definition

WHO's definition

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

Preamble to the Constitution of this World Organization as adopted by the International Health Conference, New York, 19-22 June, 1946; signed on 22 July 1946 by the representatives of 61 States (Official Records of this World Organization, no. 2, p. 100) and entered into force on 7 April 1948.

The correct bibliographic citation is:

The Definition has not been amended since 1948.

In 1986, the WHO, in the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion, said that it is "a resource for everyday life, not the objective of living. It is a positive concept emphasizing social and personal resources, as well as physical capacities."

What is health? - The definition of health

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The definition of health

Definition of health

The state of being hale and sound, in body and mind and being in the state free from physical disease or pain.

WHO (World Health Organization )

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
http://who.int/about/en/

Merriam-Webster Dictionary

The condition of being sound in body, mind, or spirit; especially : freedom from physical disease or pain.
merriam-webster.com/dictionary/

The Free Online Dictionary - Definition

1.The overall condition of an organism at a given time.

2. Soundness, especially of body or mind; freedom from disease or abnormality.

3.The state of being bodily and mentally vigorous and free from disease
thefreedictionary.com/

Princeton University-WordNet

1.A state of wellbeing free from disease
2.The general condition of body and mind
http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn

Wikipedia - Definition

Health is the general condition of a person in all aspects. It is also a level of functional and/or metabolic efficiency of an organism, often implicitly human.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/

Fruit facts - Dates health benefits - Dates nutritional values

Dates fruit nutrition facts → Facts about dates fruit and palm → Health benefits of dates fruit

Dates fruit have been the staple food for centuries in the West Asian, Mediterranean and North African regions of the world, giving health benefits to the populations in the region.This fruit is a good food source having high nutritional value contributing immense health benefits. Dates are easily assimilated producing energy in a short span of time.

Dates fruit uses and benefits

It is consumed as such and also used in various culinary preparations enhancing their nutritional values.
Dates fruit is chopped or made into paste or syrup and used in candy bars, cookies, cakes, jams, jellies, breads, puddings and cereals enriching their nutritional value.

a bunch of raw dates (enlarge)

Nutritional values and medicinal and health benefits of dates fruit

The high content of sugars like fructose, glucose and sucrose makes it a power house giving instant energy.
This fruit is rich in essential minerals like, potassium, calcium, iron, sulphur, phosphorus, copper and manganese.
It contains fairly high amounts of vitamin B complex, giving health benefits by helping in the regulation of metabolism, boosting of immunity, maintenance of blood glucose levels and cell regeneration.
The high fiber content improves health by giving a laxative effect in the intestine.
The soluble fiber in dates fruit helps in the control of diabetes by regulating the blood sugar levels.
The soluble fiber gives health benefits of lowering LDL ( low density lipoprotein - bad cholesterol).
The high potassium and low sodium content in them helps in the reducing hyper-tension and blood pressure.
Dates are found to have high levels of antioxidants and polyphenols, which give health benefits like protection from cancer and heart ailments.
The high tannin content make them useful in the intestinal troubles, functioning as astringent and detersive.
Continuous use of them has been found to help in building up of friendly bacteria in the digestive tract and in keeping the intestinal pathogens in check.
Dates help in weight reduction, weight gain and in the getting relief from constipation due to its high fiber content.
In various forms like decoction, syrup and paste gives health benefits controlling cough and throat ailments.
It is found to relieve fever, edema and abdominal health problems.
The gum from the trunk is used to treat urino-genital ailments and diarrhea.
For both adults and children, taking this fruit helps in the speedy convalescence.
They are believed to give health benefits like strengthening the uterine-wall during pregnancy.
Dates fruit has been found to give health benefits to pregnant women by helping in easy delivery and in reducing bleeding after delivery.

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Fruit facts: Apple health benefits

Apple fruit facts → Nutrition facts → Facts about health benefits
Apple fruit being packed with antioxidants and fibre is of immense health benefits.

Facts about apple health benefits for the digestive system

Apple fruit is a rich source of both soluble and insoluble fiber.

Pectin is the predominant soluble fibre in this fruit.

It contains 1-1.5% pectin. Pectin is also useful both against diarrhea and constipation.

The non soluble fiber in it by holding water facilitates movement of food in the alimentary canal and cleanses the colon. It also provides the bulk in the intestine and prevents constipation.

All these health benefits are achieved when raw fruit is eaten with skin.

Facts about apple health benefits in cancer and heart disease

Pectin found in this fruit benefits us in removing and preventing cholesterol deposits on the walls of the blood vessels.

This fruit is rich in flavonoids and also contains vitamin C and E and other antioxidants.

The flavonoids are plant products and function as antioxidants. Apart from antioxidants like vitamin C and E, these flavonoids also help in free radical scavenging and protect our body tissues from oxidative damages.

Most of the heart health problems like atherosclerosis and cancer are caused probably due to the uncontrolled free radical activity.

Being low in sodium it is an ideal low sodium food for people suffering from hypertension.

In another study conducted it was found that women consuming at least one apple a day had 22% of reduced incidence of heart disease when compared to those who do not eat it.

Studies at various places have shown that cancer incidence, especially of colon and lung is reduced by 20% and 40% respectively on consumption of this fruit.

Facts about apple health benefits in post menopause

This fruit is a good source of trace mineral boron. Boron is required for healthy bones.

Experiments have shown that boron intake (3mg/day) reduces the calcium excretion in postmenopausal women by 44% and also activates vitamin D and the hormone estrogen.

Regular eating of this fruit gives health benefits of preventing and treating osteoporosis, common in postmenopausal phase of life.

Facts about apple health benefits for weight-loss

One of the important facts about Apple fruit is that it is very poor in fats and cholesterol and helps in weight-loss.

The complex carbohydrates in it give sustaining energy and apple is an ideal snack with health benefits of adding very less calories.

The fibre content in the apple gives a filled feeling and the health benefits of stopping people from over eating regular food.