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Breakups can be terrible experiences. Bad breakups often involve disruption of your everyday life and a lot of discomforts. Most people are aware that breakups can mess up your mental health, but are not aware of the physical aspects of it. Yes, breakups can affect your physical health. The following are some of the ways in which a breakup affects the physical health of a human being: A Rise in Heart Rate The human body has an instinct called fight or flight. It is an evolutionary response that human beings have developed. It essentially means that in a situation perceived as a threat, the brain either decides to fight it or to run away. A bad breakup triggers a similar response. The activation of the fight or flight instinct makes the body release many different types of hormones. This can create hormonal imbalances in the body. This can lead to a rapid rise In heart rate and also cause tremors. Pain There are studies which show that emotional pain suffered due to a breakup is processed by the brain in a similar way as physical pain. During brain scans of people who had recently been through breakups, it was observed that the same part of the brain lights up and responds which is associated with physical pain. Common forms of pain include: Chest pain Muscle soreness Neck Pain Headache Stomachache Essentially any part of the body can be affected by emotional pain. Digestive Problems When a bad breakup occurs, the human body releases stress hormones whose purpose is to help in getting through these difficult times. However, excess production of these stress hormones can cause problems. One stress hormone which is released is known as cortisol. One of the functions of cortisol is to divert blood supply to the body parts which are suffering from pain. Cortisol diverts the blood supply from the digestive system to these parts. The lack of blood in the digestive system gives rise to a host of stomach problems. The common stomach problems are: Stomach cramps Loss of appetite Credits: Pexels Captions: Breakups can trigger digestive problems such as stomach cramps. Lack of Immune Response The immune system of the body can also be affected by a breakup. The stress which one suffers from can diminish the working capacity of the immune system. Moreover, stress hormones such as cortisol also affect its functioning. This lack of immune response makes the body more susceptible to acquired infections. The commonly observed infections are: Diarrhoea Cold Credits: Pexels Caption: A weak immune system makes the body more susceptible to diseases such as common cold. Insomnia and Other Sleeping Problems Insomnia is a condition where the sufferer has difficulty falling asleep. One of the most common things which occur due to a breakup is insomnia. In the aftereffects of a breakup, the body undergoes chemical changes involving neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. These chemical changes are abrupt and cause significant changes. They give rise to various sleeping problems including insomnia. Some of the other problems can be a difficulty In falling asleep, nightmares and decrease in sleep time. Cravings The human brain processes a breakup as a rejection. This feeling of rejection causes many mental health problems such as doubting your self-worth and mood cravings, but one physical symptom of feeling rejected is cravings. Cravings are the body’s response to being rejected. Fulfilling food cravings provides satisfaction which is missing after a bad breakup and that is why most people are adamant to fulfil their cravings. Credits: Pexels Caption: Icecream is a common food craving. Alt Text: A person holding an icecream cone. Takeaway While breakups can affect your physical health, most of these conditions are short-lived. They usually resolve on their own in a short time. To deal with breakups, you need a positive attitude. If you are having difficulty in dealing with it then visiting a therapist can be helpful. In case any of the above mentioned physical conditions last for more than a week then you may need treatment and you should visit a doctor.

Dietary supplements are used by people all over the world to meet the nutritional requirements of their bodies that they are unable to get from their daily food consumption. Many dietary supplements are taken as part of a healthy lifestyle, but some are used to reduce the risk factors of certain chronic diseases, or to reduce discomfort caused by certain drugs or conditions, or to simply improve their quality of life. Dietary supplements can be used safely within certain dosage guidelines. However, taking them excessively can be toxic to your health. Excessive use of dietary supplements may cause people to suffer from unforeseen side effects, illnesses, or drug interactions from dietary supplements. Below mentioned are 10 supplements and their toxic effects which results due to excessive consumption. 1.  Iodine Supplements Iodine is a mineral that is naturally present in some foods, added to others and also available as dietary supplement. It’s important to get enough Iodine in the diet as it regulates various hormones, helps in the growth and development of the fetus, maintains thyroid health and so on. If you lack in Iodine, your doctor may recommend Iodine supplementation. Caption: Iodine containing capsules Credits: pixabay Alt tags: Iodine supplement Excessive consumption of Iodine may result in Feeling of vomiting Mild to moderate Diarrhea Fever Burning sensations in the throat and mouth Pain in the stomach In severe cases can result in Coma due to Iodine Toxicity.. 2.  Vitamin A Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin and is required for the proper development and functioning of our eyes, immune system, skin. Caption: Vitamin A capsules Credits: pixabay Alt tags: Vitamin A Excessive consumption of vitamin A may cause: Bone resorption and inhibit its formation, Osteoporosis Hip fractures Headache, nausea, and vomiting. Hypertriglyceridemia Skin irritation, erythema Teratogenic effects like craniofacial, cardiac, thymic, and central nervous system abnormalities. 3.  Vitamin C Vitamin C supplements are most commonly used to boost the immune function and prevent oneself from cold and flu. It is also used in treating Scurvy. Caption: Vitamin C capsules Credits: pixabay Alt tags: Vitamin C Excessive consumption of Vitamin C may cause: Nausea and Vomiting Diarrhea Heartburn Abdominal pain due to cramps. Severe Headache Inability to sleep 4.  Vitamin D Vitamin D is used to treat and prevent bone disorders such as rickets, osteomalacia. It is also given as a supplement to pregnant women. Caption: Vitamin D capsules Credits: pixabay Alt tags: Vitamin D Too much Vitamin D can cause Harmful levels of calcium in the body Fatigue loss of appetite Increased thirst Dysuria Mood swings In rare cases may cause allergic reactions leading to rash and itching 5.  Vitamin E Vitamin E supplements are considered good for the heart and are used to prevent coronary heart disease,  prevent inflammation, support immune function, promote eye health, and also helps lower the risk of cancer. Caption: Vitamin E capsules Credits: pixabay Alt tags: Vitamin E Excessive use of Vitamin E may cause: Nausea Diarrhea Abdominal pain Excessive tiredness Fatigue Severe headache accompanied by blurred vision, Rash In severe cases, it may also increase the chances of Prostate cancer in men 6.  Vitamin B12 Credits: pixabay Alt tags: Vitamin B12 capsules Vitamin B12 is an essential supplement used to treat anemia and promotes proper function  of the brain, nerves, and blood cells. High doses or mega consumption of Vitamin B12 may cause Acne and rosacea Mild diarrhea Itching and skin rash Headache Pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure in rare cases. 7.  Vitamin B6 Vitamin B6 plays an important role in maintaining the health of the nerves, skin, and red blood cells. Caption: Vitamin B6 capsules Credits: pixabay Alt tags: Vitamin B6 Excessive consumption of Vitamin B6 may cause: Stomach pain loss of appetite Headache Tingling sensation Drowsiness 8.  Omega-3 Or Fish Oil Omega-3 fatty acids have numerous health benefits on both body and mind. It is widely used to improve the heart function. Caption: capsules containing fish oil Credits: pixabay Alt tags: omega-3 fatty acids Excessive intake of Omega-3 fatty acids may cause: Decrease in blood pressure/ Hypotension Blood thinning excessive bleeding Increased risk of bruising and bleeding due to injury 9.  Probiotics Probiotics have been used to treat bowel problems such as diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, improves brain gut axis, and urinary tract infections. Caption: Probiotics Credits: pixabay Alt tags: Probiotics Excessive consumption of Probiotics may lead to Brain fogginess and disorientation, as well as rapid belly bloating. 10.              Digestive enzymes Digestive enzymes like lipases , proteases, amylases and nucleases  help break down the foods and aid in digestion. Caption: Digestive enzymes in a capsules Credits: pixabay Alt tags: Digestive capsules Excessive consumption of Digestive enzymes may cause: Dependency Disrupted intestinal balance Increase the risk of arthritis Altered absorption of nutrients

What is the One Meal a Day Plan? One meal a day is a type of intermittent fasting which involves fasting for about 23 hours including the time you spend sleeping. The remaining one hour is where you need to eat and assimilate your favourite food. Why Should I Consider A One Meal Day Plan? Many people have reported that following the one- meal- a day diet has benefited them in various ways. Some of the benefits of following the OMAD diet include: It helps lose weight rapidly You can count on your calories easily Keeps you active all day, Keeps you away from “afternoon sluggishness,” and provides a feeling of fullness for longer periods. It also lets you choose your favourite food dinner. Well! The benefits sound quite interesting! But are you a good candidate for one meal day diet plan? Let’s see! Before opting for an OMAD plan, go through its benefits, risks and various other factors and decide whether it is suitable for you or not. 1.  Diet freedom in OMAD doesn’t mean you skip your micronutrients When you are fasting for the entire day to eat that one meal during your dinner time, you should make sure you consume those essential calories, vitamins and nutrients to fuel up your body for the next day. So, exercise caution! Do not end up munching crackers or drinking alcohol in your OMAD diet. Gym lovers may find it hard to follow OMAD Fasting for the entire day is extreme. While following an OMAD diet, you may not notice any serious loss of strength in the initial days, but gradually your energy becomes low.  In such a case, thinking of hitting a gym may make you lethargic due to reduced strength. Not good for children, people with diabetes or other metabolic disorders. The OMAD diet can be extremely dangerous for children or young adults, as it may hamper the growth and development of children.  People who are suffering from diabetes, hypoglycemia, obesity, or metabolic rate issues, should avoid following OMAD as it can cause severe complications. What Science Has to Say About OMAD? Caption: Man researching on various things Credits: pixabay A Research study has shown that extended fasts which included just ingesting water in a 2 day period are linked to decreased rates of diseases, such as cancer and diabetes. However, water-only fasting for prolonged periods can be difficult and extreme which could cause adverse effects including malnourishment and dysfunctions Intermittent fasting boosts the body’s resistance to disease by strengthening the immune system. Another research study has claimed that fasting for 18 to 20 hours a day can regulate the blood sugar levels, blood pressure and cholesterol levels in the body. Should I Follow a One Day Meal Plan? Eating once a day is not for everyone. People can react to it differently depending upon their weight, type of metabolism, age and disease conditions if any. Some people have great results turning OMAD into a lifelong commitment, while some may observe physical weakness, fatigue, binge eating or trouble focusing. So, it’s recommended to discuss with your primary care provider before opting for one meal a day plan.

Obesity is becoming an uncontrolled rampant problem in India affecting people of all ages around the world. Overeating, sedentary lifestyle, and physical inactivity may lead to the storage of surplus energy in the body as fat. In the past few decades, the prevalence of obesity and overweight has increased, causing various health problems such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and several types of cancers. Research studies have also reported that people who are overweight are associated with certain psychosocial problems, such as depression and anxiety disorders. In tandem with the higher incidences of obesity and overweight, it has been found that an increase in food portion sizes could be one possible reason behind it. What is Portion Control? Portion control is a key method to help you shed that extra fat easily. If you control your portion size then you can easily control your weight. The portion size of food is defined as the amount of food you choose to eat at one time whether in a restaurant, canned/packaged form, or food that you prepare in your kitchen. Understanding the right portion size for you and abiding by it can prove to be a successful weight loss program. Portion control is the magic key to losing weight and helps maintain a healthy weight. How Portion Control Can Help You Lose Weight? Caption: serving small portion of food on a plate Credits: pixabay Alt tags: food on plate Research studies have shown that people when offered with larger food portions tend to eat more and become overweight. Irrespective of the type of food or diet you are taking, it is important for you to identify the correct portion size. A correct portion size of food on your plate allows you to know exactly how many calories, carbs, sodium, or fats you’re eating. This can not only help build good eating habits but will also set up healthy goals helping you overcome your excessive weight. Let’s see how portion control can help you lose weight: Keeping control of your portion size sets a daily norm and guides you to consume the right amount of food. It controls your hunger or satiety center, and provides a degree of fullness. So, the next time, if you feel like eating a larger portion of your meal your brain can alarm you not to! Consuming small portion sizes throughout the day rather than eating one larger unit can boost your metabolism rate and help you lose weight. It is also found that people eat less when food is divided into smaller units. Portion size may seem small if served on a large plate and the degree of ‘plate emptiness’ may cause meal termination by an individual. However, if small portion sizes are served on a small plate it looks more appealing and steers individuals to judge portions differently. So, it’s recommended to eat your portion of food on a small plate. Portion control helps people change their behaviors of consuming food mindlessly which initiates a greater desire to eat. For example: Watching television, chatting on your mobile phone, listening to the radio are some of the factors that typically lead to mindlessly eating larger amounts of food than intended. In such a case, portion control may help you eat only the desired amount of food. Portion size helps make healthier choices available to people and sets the options as a default. It also helps regulate, restrict, or eliminate certain food choices.

A kidney transplant is the transfer of a healthy kidney from an individual into the body of another who has little or no kidney function. The major role played by the kidney is to filter out waste products from the blood and convert them to wee. If the kidneys lose this ability, waste products start accumulating, which is potentially life-threatening. This loss of kidney function is referred to as end-stage chronic kidney disease or kidney failure and is the most common reason for undergoing a kidney transplant. Most people who need a kidney transplant can undergo one, regardless of their age, taking into account: They are well enough to withstand post-effects of the surgery The transplant is going to have a good chance of success The person is willing to accept the treatments required after the transplant –and attending regular follow-up appointments People who require a kidney transplant, but don’t have a suitable living donor, usually have to wait for long until a suitable deceased donor kidney becomes available. The transplant procedure must be carried out as quickly as possible for the transplant to have the maximum chance of success. After the medical team has confirmed the kidney is fit, you will be given the general anesthetic and taken to the operating theatre. The Operation The kidney transplant procedure involves 3 major steps: An incision is made in your lower abdomen, through which the donated kidney is put into place. Your kidneys are usually left where they are unless they are causing problems such as pain or infection. Surrounding blood vessels are attached to the blood vessels of the donated kidney. This is to provide the donated kidney with the blood supply needed to function properly. The tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder, the ureter, of the donated kidney is connected to your bladder. Caption: Doctors performing kidney surgery Credits: af.mil       Alt tags: Kidney surgery A small plastic tube called a stent is inserted into the ureter to ensure a good flow of urine initially. This is usually removed 6 to 12 weeks later during a minor procedure known as a cystoscopy. When the kidney is properly in place, the incision in your abdomen will be closed with surgical staples or stitches. Although the procedure may sound very simple and straightforward, it is a very demanding and complex surgery that takes a lot of time to complete. After The Operation Once you have recovered from the effects of the anesthetic, you will likely feel some pain at the site of the incision. Painkillers are usually provided. After the operation, you will immediately begin treatment with medication that is designed to prevent your immune system from rejecting the new kidney. Caption: Doctor monitoring the patient post-transplant surgery                                                  Credits: Flickr                               Alt tags: Close monitoring Transplanted kidneys begin functioning immediately, especially if they come from a living donor, although sometimes they may take a few days or weeks to function properly. In this case, you will require dialysis during this period. Most patients are discharged in about a week, but you will need to attend frequent appointments at the center, so your kidney function can be assessed and tests can be done to check how well your medications are working. For the first month after the surgery, 2 to 3 appointments a week are necessary. However, over time, your appointments will become lesser. After a year, as long as you do not have any serious issues, you may only have to attend the center once every 4 to 6 months. After the surgery, you will be able to return to work and other daily chores within a few months, provided you make good progress. The success rate for kidney transplants in India stands at 85-90%. The hospitals in India are built to world-class standards and can take into account a large number of people. Wait Time For A Kidney Transplant India follows a strict procedure for organ transplants. International patients have to travel with a kidney donor to India, who must be a blood relative or spouse. As such, the wait time for scheduling a kidney transplant surgery cannot be promised, as it may vary depending on the condition of the patient. Once the patient has undergone a successful kidney transplant, the doctors monitor their condition in the hospital for a few days. Post which, they will advise the patient to discharge from the hospital while closely monitoring for the next few weeks. Once the doctors are fully satisfied with the progress, they will let you know whether it is safe enough to travel back. Cost for Kidney Transplantation in India When it comes to any surgery or transplant, the costs can sky-rocket depending upon the availability of organs and donors. However, in India, the costs are almost one-third of what it generally costs in the US and Europe, with the same or better treatment quality. The total kidney transplant cost in India ranges between USD 15,000 to 25,000 including the cost of a stay, food, etc. As of now, kidney transplant costs between Rs. 5-6 Lakh in private hospitals. And post-treatment, the monthly cost comes up to Rs. 15,000 with the lifelong medicines costing approximately Rs. 10,000 per month. #KidneytransplantcostinIndia #KidneytransplantinIndia

Magnesium is one of the most important minerals that our body requires in large amounts. This is because magnesium is involved in more than 300 chemical reactions in the body. Most importantly, this mineral is responsible for muscle contractions and maintaining a strong immunity. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of magnesium is around 400-420 milligrams per day for adults. If a person is suffering from deficiency symptoms like muscle twitches, fatigue, mental disorders, high blood pressure etc, a blood test must be conducted in order to check the levels of magnesium in your blood. In order to maintain a regulated amount of magnesium in your diet, magnesium-rich foods must be consumed. They include: Roasted almonds Spinach Bran flakes Potatoes Kidney beans Unrefined grains Tofu Dark chocolate Banana Fatty fish Benefits of Regulated Intake of Magnesium The following events take place in your body when the required amount of magnesium is present: Alt tag : broken bone Caption: prevent fractures 1)   Bone health improves Magnesium is responsible for strengthening and improving bone formation by enabling small mineral crystals in the bone structure to increase in density. In addition, calcium ions are one of the main components of bones are it’s absorption is facilitated with the help of magnesium ions. Thus, one can say that calcium ions require the presence of magnesium ions in order to be effective. If magnesium ions were absent, calcium ions would start to accumulate in other places like the small tissues, bones and arteries and become toxic. Credit: flickr Alt tag: person using black blood pressure monitor Caption: controls blood pressure 1)   Controls blood pressure and cardiovascular health The rate or force at which your heart pumps blood that flows in the blood vessels is known as blood pressure. The blood vessels in your body are capable of contracting and relaxing like others muscles. The flow of magnesium ions helps the muscles relax and the calcium ions help the muscles contract. This is because magnesium acts as a natural calcium ion blocker into muscles. Thus, the combination of the two promotes heartbeat, blood flow and blood pressure. In short, magnesium is able to control or prevent high blood pressure by allowing cardiac muscles to relax properly. As a result, it decreases the risk of heart conditions like heart attacks and heart blockages. Magnesium ions also possess anti-inflammatory properties that will prevent blood clotting in the arteries, veins, or any blood vessels of the heart. Credit: pexels Alt tag : woman in purple top eating pizza Caption: improves digestion 1)   Improves digestive health Magnesium is also responsible for the relaxation in the muscles and peristaltic movements of the digestive tract which improves digestion. It maintains the PH of the stomach acid to advance stools through intestines and promote healthy bowel movements. This is why low levels of magnesium and constipation are linked  because if you think of it, the entire digestive tract is just one huge long muscle. Credit: pixabay Alt tag : inhaler breath asthma Caption: fights asthma 1)   Fights Asthma Magnesium is often used to control muscle spasms of the bronchitis and help lungs breathe easier. As a result, symptoms of asthma can be controlled with magnesium and is often used during emergencies in the ERs. They include chest tightness, insomnia,  shortness of breath, uncontrollable coughing and wheezing. Credit: Pixabay Alt tag : Diabetes Blood sugar Diabetic Caption: protects against Diabetes 1)   Protection against diabetes The levels of sugar in the blood is controlled by a hormone known as insulin which is released from the thyroid gland. Once insulin is released, the cells respond or interact with insulin by the help of receptors present on the surface of these cells. To get a clearer understanding, the receptors are like entry gates or channels through which substances enter the cell and they are highly specific. Magnesium ions are responsible to aid the entry of insulin through these receptors. Thus this means that if the magnesium levels in your blood were low, then the body cells would be unable to utilize the insulin produced effectively. As a result, the blood sugar levels would not be kept in check and the levels would increase. The condition in which there is an increase in blood sugar levels is known as diabetes and this specific type of diabetes in which cells become insulin resistant is known as Types 2 Diabetes. Credit: pexels Alt tag: woman sleeping Caption: cures insomnia 1)   Aids to insomnia and depression problems Since Magnesium ions block calcium ions, it helps the body muscles relax. As a result, the mind would be able to relax and will eventually prove the quality of sleep by allowing you to fall asleep faster. It is also known to regulate the production of hormones like melatonin and binds to GABA receptors. This is important as it induces sleep by regulating the sleep cycle and is often used as a dietary supplement to cure jet lag or sleeping disorders like insomnia. In addition to melatonin, magnesium ions also help regulate the release of other brain hormones and reduces secretion of specific stress hormones. Thus, if magnesium levels were low, it could lead to several mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Some evidence has also linked the regulation of menstruation hormones with magnesium ions which could cause premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are considered good for your overall health, especially for your digestive system. Our body is full of bacteria, both good and bad, and probiotics are loaded with such good bacteria that boosts your gut health. Apart from pharmas, you can also find them in food stores. Why are Probiotics Important? Probiotics help treat and prevent some illnesses related to digestion, immunity, brain function, and heart function. How Probiotics Help Promote Health and Well-being? Some of their health benefits are listed as below: 1.   Brain function It has been reported that people who consume probiotics perform better. Research studies have elucidated that probiotics can help fight brain disorders like stress, depression and anxiety. Probiotics modulates the responses which cause stress by influencing the neurotransmitters in the brain. Stress increases the levels of cortisol hormones in the body and probiotics consumption is found to decrease the same, improve attention span in, and manage emotions. 2.   Heart function Probiotics have also shown to promote heart function where it prevents the heart from coronary artery disease. The mechanism behind this includes reduced cholesterol levels, interference with cholesterol absorption from the gut, and direct cholesterol assimilation. Probiotics also help lower blood pressure by lowering the levels of blood lipids and increasing Vitamin D levels. 3.   Migrain Peoplewith migraine show an increased amount of inflammatory mediators in the bloodstream and an altered brain-gut axis. Probiotics strengthen the gut and brain function by decreasing the inflammatory mediators. Thus, help limit the frequency, duration, and severity of migraine headache attacks. 4.   Diarrhoea The beneficial effects of probiotics for diarrhoea are attributed to its inhibitory effects on diarrhoea causing pathways. Probiotics also tend to boost the function of the immune system and help fight against various microorganisms causing diarrhoea, and produce substances that can directly inactivate the viral particles. 5.   Psoriasis People with psoriasis often have higher amounts of inflammation-causing bacteria in their intestines. Probiotics can modify and strengthen the systemic immune system by stimulating your body’s T-cells and can have a positive impact in controlling, or even preventing, chronic inflammation caused by psoriasis.

Any form of exercise or physical activity is beneficial to the body. It helps maintain a healthy body weight, psychological health, regulates metabolism, and even reduces the risk of chronic diseases. One of the best forms of exercising is hiking. It offers you cardio, fitness and mental benefits while presenting to you a beautiful view to enjoy, appreciate or even get inspired. Infact, there’s quite a number of people who go hiking just to enjoy the magnificent view and fresh air and less for the intent of improving health and fitness. Here’s all the reasons why hiking is so beneficial: ●     Time flies when you’re hiking! A lot of people underestimate the power of a beautiful view that will instill a feeling of happiness and peace in a person. When this happens, the body releases a hormone known as dopamine which is known to increase efficiency and reduce effort. Once the person has their “game face” on, after some time, the workout seems to be less tiring and will increase their motivation. This is because once a person gets into their zone it’s almost like their reflex action and suncon mind takes charge. It’s similar to when you’re driving and reach a destination but have vague memories of your journey. Moreover, the phrase “time flies when you’re having fun” is justified in this case. When you’re hiking, especially with your friends, the process is enjoyable to you and as a result, time passes by quickly. This is because the human brain has a finite amount of attention span but when we focus on something fun and enjoyable, we tend to pay less attention to the passing of time and thus making the moment seem like it passed by quicker than it usually would. Another distraction that we focus on is the trail itself. Typically, trails are unpredictable and hiking would require a high attention span. Credit: pexels Caption: Hiking increases brain function ●     Increases brain function, creativity and mental satisfaction Speaking of attention spans, hiking is also known to increase your brain function. This is because the mind has to constantly be aware and adapt to your surroundings when you go on a hike. Every step on a stony slope or every footing before a climb has to be a calculated one in order to ensure maximum safety. Moreover, constant navigation and motivation to reach the destination also acts as a driving force that keeps your mind working and thus increasing brain functions. In addition, the wideness and seemingly never ending beauty of nature space tends to inspire ideas by letting your mind wander into the depths of randomness and creativity. Some studies have confirmed the positive connection between creativity and natural experiences. This is why many scientists and philosophers preferred to be in open spaces in nature. When you hike, your brain produces BDNF, a topic factor which is responsible for nerve growth, maturation and maintenance of nerve cells. Thus, when BDNF is increased it promotes activity of the cranial neurons and also affects mental health. Lastly, the mental satisfaction that you will feel when you reach the destination point or site is one of the most liberating feelings in the world. When you look back at the trail you journeyed, your body will relax, ease out and release happy hormones as a natural response. As a result, you will feel blissful, peaceful and satisfied. Credits: pexel Caption: Toned lower body ●     Tones the lower body and increases stamina Hiking fitness Hiking is a more enjoyable form of cross training. It increases stamina, tones your legs and core. This is because navigation, walking or climbing up trails requires your abs and lower body strength to work in order to stabilize your body. The additional weight of your backpack also contributes as resistance and forces your body muscles to work more.and thus strengthens it. Moreover, hiking up hill on mountains in a way is similar to doing lunges or bench step ups during gym workouts but in this case doing them in a continuous and more efficient manner, over and over again. Going downhill, on the other hand, offers a lot of resistance on your glutes and quads in order to stabilize your body from falling and rolling down. Thus, the combination of going uphill and downhill is bound to significantly increase your lower body strength and tone your muscles. As your muscles strengthen, your stamina increases, and eventually you’ll be able to easily venture out on longer and harder hikes. In conclusion, regardless if you are a star athlete or just a beginner, you’ll burn anywhere around 500-900 calories in just an hour. Credit: pexels Alt tag: hiking happiness Caption: Destress ●     Improves lifestyle Besides making you physically stronger, hiking is also known to improve your quality of life and wellbeing. With the  majority of the population having a desk job and increased social pressure, there is a constant feeling of stress and uneasiness. Hiking serves as a  temporary escape from this reality in order to destress. Nature offers these relief measures and it’s calming effect decreases blood pressure and cortisol levels in your body. The excessive walking required during a hike is also known to improve sleep quality at the end of the day and helps you recharge and reconnect. As a result, it reduces any risk of anxiety and depression. One would typically find themselves jolly and energetic the next day. Lastly, the disconnect from the rest of the world due to unavailable signals and connection problems with technology, you will find yourself interacting with nature and appreciating its simplicity. A person will also find themselves to be more respectful towards mother nature and hold themselves accountable for any action that might compromise it’s purity. Credits: pexels Alt tag : hiking with friends Caption: Bonding ●     Great for bonding! Hiking not only helps you connect with nature but also with you fellow hikers. It could be your family, friend or any loved one. Lack of internet connectivity, will also increase your interaction with one another. In addition to that, you will also find yourselves relying on each other on safety or any such related problems. This increases or creates a sense of bonding and teamwork among each other and you will feel more connected to your fellow hikers by the end of the hike. Credit: pexels Alt tag: hiking trails Caption: Find trails around you Finding Trails Around You Luckily for us, India is known as a hiker’s paradise. There are numerous areas and trails with different difficulty levels that a person can pick out. Some of the popular trails are : Roopkund, Uttarakhand Great Lakes, Jammu and Kashmir Pin Parvati Pass, Himachal Pradesh The Karla Caves and the Bhaja Caves, Maharashtra Several walking trails in Matheran, Maharashtra You can also find more trails around you here.

The novel coronavirus or COVID-19 is awful news. It has already infected 5,128,492 people and killed 333,489 globally (as of this writing). Different sources estimate the mortality rate for COVID-19 at roughly 2% to 4%. However, this is variable as the virus rages on. Certainly, the world has been through other epidemics that were much worse. For example, the 1918 Spanish Flu infected approximately 500 million people and killed more than 50 million globally. However, weighing the impact of one virus against another is nor exactly fair game. Several variables are involved, such as the mode of transmission, virus infectivity, host defence mechanisms, and even weather. Nevertheless, it’s informative to put the present outbreak into a sort of perspective. Coronaviruses Coronaviruses are a huge family of enclosed RNA viruses that mostly infect mammals and birds. In humans, they can induce mild infection in the upper respiratory tract, such as slight cough, but also more serious lower respiratory tract infections that can manifest as pneumonia, bronchitis, or some severe respiratory illness. Let’s take a look at 5 other viruses that in their ways, are more dangerous than Covid-19. 1.  MERS Covid-19 isn’t the only coronavirus. MERS or Middle East Respiratory Syndrome was caused by a rare but deadly coronavirus first found in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Since then, MERS has infected 2,502 people and caused 861 deaths worldwide, according to the  WHO. As we know, that’s just a fraction of the cases reported for Covid-19. However, the difference is in the mortality rate. MERS had an estimated mortality rate of 37.2% compared with that of 2% to 4% for COVID-19. Similar to Covid-19, MERS-CoV () infection showed symptoms of cough, fever, and shortness of breath. Unlike Covid-19, MERS coronavirus infection usually stems from camels. No vaccine or specific treatment is currently available for MERS coronavirus. 2.  Hepatitis According to a WHO report, viral hepatitis lead to an annual 1.34 million deaths globally in 2015. Although casualties due to other infectious diseases have reduced, casualties due to viral hepatitis have only increased, by approximately 22% since 2000. While five types of viral hepatitis exist, such as hepatitis A, D, and E, hepatitis B and C are responsible for 96% of all hepatitis linked deaths. Most of these deaths are caused by primary liver cancer and chronic liver disease. Caption: Global distribution of Hepatitis B. Credits: Commons wikimedia An estimate of 4.4% of the world’s population or 325 million people have viral hepatitis. Also, 1.75 million new cases of hepatitis C alone occur every year. Despite effective antivirals for hepatitis C and a vaccine for hepatitis B, only some people with viral hepatitis get diagnosed due to limited access to affordable hepatitis testing. According to the WHO, only 20% with hepatitis C and 9% of people with hepatitis B have received a diagnosis. Therefore, treatment reaches only a few of those infected. 1.  Ebola Currently, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is fighting the world’s second-biggest Ebola outbreak on record. According to the WHO, 3,462 have been infected and 2,262 people have died since the epidemic was first declared in August 2018. Ebola is rare, however, it has a high mortality rate of nearly 50% (this rate has ranged from 25% to 90% in previous outbreaks). The 2014 to 2016 outbreak in West Africa was the biggest Ebola epidemic to occur, 11,308 died and 28,610 people were infected. No proven treatment has been able to combat the virus, however several immunological, blood, and drug therapies are in development. Few vaccines have been identified to help control the spread of the Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Guinea. 1.  HIV/AIDS According to the WHO, at the end of 2018, nearly 37.9 million people globally were diagnosed with HIV. In 2018, 1.7 million people were newly infected and 770,000 people died from HIV-related causes. According to the WHO, since the virus was first identified, nearly 32 million people have died globally as a result of HIV. HIV has become a manageable chronic health disease. For example, 54% of children and 62% of adults living with HIV are receiving antiretroviral therapy, the primary treatment for HIV. However, in the US, of the estimated 1.1 million Americans living with HIV, nearly 1 in 7 or 14% of them don’t know it and need to be diagnosed. At the same time, more than 38,000 new HIV cases occur in the US every year. 1.  Influenza Although Covid-19 has inflected a great deal of damage and concern, there’s a more deadly and widespread virus going around, namely, influenza or the flu. H1N1 influenza virus.              Credits: Commons wikimedia According to a new estimate, influenza globally causes nearly 3 to 5 million cases of severe illness and nearly 290,000 to 650,000 casualties every year. Based on a recent report from CDC, in the United States, a minimum of 22 million people were victims of the flu in the 2019-2020 season and about 12,000 died from it. Although there’s no vaccine or treatment for Covid-19 like there is for influenza, Covid-19 has warranted extensive containment procedures and a high level of caution. Which virus truly is a threat? The one we tend not to be afraid of and the one we are all familiar with is truly a threat. The fallout of each epidemic largely depends on circumstances such as how fatal and contagious it is, how hygienic people are when we catch it, and when a vaccine or cure becomes available.

Positivity is an asset that can help you in many ways. It can change your attitude towards problems, relieve stress and even boost productivity. Embracing positivity is not easy but it’s always worth it. And on that note, here are 11 quotes that may help you find what you’re looking for.

Performance anxiety is defined as the fear of failing a task usually in the presence of other people. It makes you doubt your ability to perform a task. Performance anxiety can severely affect your mental health and prohibit you from performing tasks that you are good at. It is commonly called stage fright. Activities that commonly trigger performance anxiety issues: ●Public speaking ●Stage performances ●Exam performance ●Sexual activities ●Competition ●Sports These are a few examples of activities associated with performance anxiety. It can be triggered by any activity. Causes of Performance Anxiety Performance anxiety is primarily caused by stress and pressure. Performing a task in front of others can be a stressful affair for some people. This pressure along with the stress of achieving desirable results triggers performance anxiety. Symptoms of Performance Anxiety These symptoms usually appear just before the activity has to be done but, in some cases, they can persist for longer durations as well. ●Increased pulse rate ●Trembling and shivering ●Excessive sweating ●Breathing difficulty ●Blurred vision ●Nausea ●Vomiting ●Dry mouth ●Loss of consciousness Treatment for Performance Anxiety ●Therapist: Some therapists are trained in treating anxiety disorders. Regular therapy sessions are beneficial in overcoming performance anxiety. Therapy is considered the best medication for anxiety. Credits:Pexels Caption: Consulting a therapist can help overcome performance anxiety. ●Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: This therapy helps in changing behaviour patterns. It focuses on using self-help strategies to overcome problems. ●Medication: Propranolol is used to treat performance anxiety. Other anti-anxiety medications such as alprazolam are also used. Medications are not widely used to treat performance anxiety. They are only used in severe cases. Tips to Deal with Performance Anxiety The performance anxiety cure lies in changing your ways and overcoming the fear of failure in performance. The following activities can help in dealing with performance anxiety: ●Practice: Practicing makes you better and boosts your confidence in your abilities. The more your practice the better your chances of overcoming performance anxiety. ●Positivity: A positive attitude can significantly help with performance anxiety. Shift your focus from what could go wrong to what could go right. Achieving the desired result should be your motivation. ●Back Your Ability: Have faith in your ability to do well. Self-doubt is one of the biggest factors that cause performance anxiety. Avoid self-doubt and focus on self-motivation. ●Meditation: It is widely accepted that meditation can help in solving performance issues. Start with meditating once a week and increase as per your convenience. Credits: Pexels Caption: Meditation calms a person down which allows them to deal with performance anxiety. ●Support Groups: A comfortable environment can help you overcome the problems. Joining support will help you see that you are not the only one suffering from this problem and the problem can be fixed. ●Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle improves the way you feel about yourself. This can help with performance anxiety. ●Start small: Start by performing in front of friends and family. Gradually increase the number of people. ●There is Always Another Chance: Performance anxiety is caused by the pressure we create on ourselves because we are worried about failing. Believe that there will always be another chance and that even this time it goes wrong, you can do it again. Anxiety Attacks The sudden overwhelming onset of symptoms of anxiety is known as an anxiety attack. Performance anxiety can trigger anxiety attacks. Anxiety attacks can be severe. How to Deal with Anxiety Attacks? If you are suffering from an anxiety attack, you should do the following activities: ●Medication: Medications such as benzodiazepines can help in treating anxiety attacks. However, these medications should only be treated if prescribed by the doctor to take during an anxiety attack. Self-medication should not be done. ●Acceptance: Accept that you are having an anxiety attack. This will help you in realizing that the attack is temporary. ●Relax: Start an activity that relaxes you and calms you down. The activities can vary among individuals, but common examples include breathing exercises and stretching. ●Use Your Imagination: Picture yourself in a scenario where you are happy. It could be something from your past or it could be imaginary. Understand the concept of picturing a happy place and imagine yourself there. This technique can help you in calming down. ●Light Exercise: Exercise is helpful for some people but keeps the exercise light as there can be shortness of breath in some individuals. ●Find What Works for You: How to control anxiety attacks depends on the individual. Some people find drinking chamomile tea helpful while others prefer a glass of cold water. Understanding what works for you is an essential aspect of controlling anxiety attacks. Credits:   Pexels Caption: Light exercise can help in dealing with an anxiety attack. Takeaway Performance anxiety is a common condition and most people suffer from it at a certain point in their life. If performance anxiety is causing you problems and affecting the things you want to do then you should try activities that help with it. There are treatment options available for performance anxiety. Therapy is very effective in helping people overcome performance anxiety. The cure for performance anxiety is to have faith in yourself and overcome the fear of failing. #Bestmedicationofanxiety #Howtocontrolanxietyattacks #Howtodealwithanxietyattacks #Performanceanxietycure

A migraine is a condition which is characterised by severe throbbing headaches often accompanied by other symptoms. Patients suffering from migraines require treatment every time they suffer from an episode. Taking medication is helpful but it has side effects. Moreover, medication does not always help. To increase the treatment options available to you, here are some alternative cures for migraine. Homoeopathy Homoeopathy is defined as a pseudo-scientific system of medicine. It involves the use of highly diluted substances which are designed to cause the body to heal itself. Treating migraine with homoeopathy has been successful. There are various homoeopathic medicines available which help in treating migraine. A homoeopathic doctor would ask you to describe your symptoms and prescribe medication accordingly. One thing to ensure is that no self-medication practices are followed. Only take homoeopathic medications which are prescribed to you. The treatment is chosen based on the severity and duration of the migraine. Homoeopathy drugs which are used are belladonna, Nux vomica, and sepia. Migraine Oil A migraine oil is an essential oil which can be applied topically and helps in reducing migraine pain. Essential oils are highly concentrated liquids that have a pain-relieving effect. Apply these oils after mixing them with carrier oils such as coconut oil. When you are suffering from migraine, apply migraine oil to your head by massaging it gently. Migraine oils have been very effective in reducing pain caused by migraine. The following essential oils are used as migraine oils: •Lavender oil •Peppermint oil •Rosemary oil •Chamomile oil There are marketed preparations also available for migraines which include a combination of essential oils. Massage There are studies which show that a massage can release endorphins and relieve stress. This can help in reducing the frequency of migraines. Relaxation helps in decreasing the severity of migraine. Regular massage sessions can bring long term relief from migraine. Stress relief which comes from a massage and other relaxation techniques is helpful in patients suffering from a migraine. Acupuncture is an alternative system of medicine which originated in China. The principle behind acupuncture is to maintain the flow of energy. An acupuncturist uses needles at pressure points which help in reducing pain. There have been clinical trials which have tested the effectiveness of acupuncture as a treatment for migraine. The results have been mixed but some studies report a 50% reduction in the frequency of migraine because of acupuncture. It is worth trying. Acupuncture is available as migraine medicine in India. Acupuncture is used to treat migraines.        Credits: Pixabay Ginger Ginger is widely believed to be a superfood that has many health benefits. Migraines are often accompanied by nausea. Ginger tea helps in reducing nausea. Ginger root also blocks prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are responsible for contracting muscles and causing a headache. This gives ginger the ability to alleviate a headache. It is advised that 2-4 gm of ginger intake should be done daily. Other herbs which can be used are: •Butterbur •Feverfew Topical Paste Application of topical agents can help in dealing with a migraine. Topical agents are applied on the forehead. These agents act directly on the skin and provide relief from migraine symptoms. The commonly used paste is nutmeg paste. Making the paste is very simple. Just mix nutmeg powder with water and apply. It provides instant relief. Yoga for Migraine Yoga is an activity which improves blood flow, reduces muscle tension, and promotes overall wellbeing. It uses meditation, breathing and body postures to improve the health of a person. A study titled Effect of Yoga on migraine: A comprehensive study using clinical profile and cardiac autonomic functions shows that yoga provides relief from migraine. The study concludes that yoga is a complementary technique that helps in treating migraine. It is believed that yoga helps with anxiety and it releases tension from migraine trigger areas. Yoga helps with the frequency, duration and intensity of the migraine. Credits: Pexels Caption: Yoga is used as a cure for migraine Migraines can be triggered by different types of foods. These foods can vary among people, but you can notice a pattern when it comes to yourself. Some foods and beverages which can trigger migraines are: •Alcohol •Beans •Dried fruit •Chocolate •Cheese Credits: Pexels Caption: Cheese can cause migraine •Pickled fruit •Sour cream •Yoghurt Diet changes also include additions to your diet. Migraines have been linked with a deficiency of magnesium. Magnesium is taken through the diet. The following foods are rich in magnesium •Peanut butter •Cashews •Sesame seeds •Eggs •Oatmeal Takeaway Migraines are serious conditions that can cause a lot of pain and discomfort to the patient. The alternative cures for migraine are essential to finding the right combination of treatment. The ideal treatment should be one which involves more than one form of treatment but has the most effective response. Migraine medicine in India includes drugs as well as all of the above mentioned alternative treatments. #Migrainehomoeopathy #MigrainemedicineIndia #Migraineoil #yogaformigraine