"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#Obesity

Good News

Unlocking Health Potential: Novel Molecule Offers Hope in the Fight Against Obesity and Osteoporosis

Scientists in Australia have made a significant breakthrough in the search for effective treatments targeting obesity, osteoporosis, and inflammatory diseases. Researchers at the Victor Chang Cardiac Institute have identified a small molecule that plays a crucial role in regulating sensors responsible for various bodily processes, including touch sensation in nerve cells.   The molecule, which interacts with PIEZO ion channels, has the potential to pave the way for the development of peptide-based drugs. By modulating the activity of these sensors, scientists believe it will be possible to combat obesity and bone diseases like osteoporosis more effectively.   Lead author Dr. Charles Cox explains that the identified molecule acts as a switch that enables the regulation of these widely expressed sensors throughout the body. This breakthrough discovery opens the door to a range of potential applications in the future.   The researchers employed cutting-edge cryo-electron microscopy to unravel how the protein binds to PIEZO ion channels. With its identification, scientists can now explore modifications and advancements in peptide-based therapeutics.   Dr. Cox and his team anticipate that boosting the activity of these channels could strengthen bones, help prevent osteoporosis, and even aid those already suffering from the condition. Furthermore, the molecule shows promise in combating obesity, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, by triggering the brain to feel satiated earlier.  

23 Aug 2023
Good News

Positive Reads

Why Do We Snore?

Snoring is a common problem that affects people of all ages and genders. It is caused by a variety of factors, including nasal congestion, obesity, and sleep position. However, the most common cause of snoring is the collapse of the airway during sleep. When we sleep, the muscles in our throat and tongue relax, causing the airway to narrow. This can lead to snoring as the air struggles to pass through the narrowed airway. In some cases, the airway can become completely blocked, leading to a condition called sleep apnea. Obesity is another common cause of snoring. People who are overweight or obese are more likely to snore because they have excess fat around their neck and throat. This fat can put pressure on the airway, making it more difficult for air to pass through. Nasal congestion is another common cause of snoring. When the nasal passages are blocked, it can make it difficult for air to pass through, leading to snoring. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, colds, and sinus infections. Adding more to it, sleep position can also play a role in snoring. People who sleep on their back are more likely to snore than those who sleep on their side. This is because when we sleep on our back, our tongue and soft palate can fall to the back of the throat, blocking the airway. It is important to address the underlying cause of snoring in order to find a solution that works for you. If your snoring is caused by a medical condition, it is important to seek medical attention to address the underlying problem. In addition, lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and sleeping on your side, can also be effective in reducing snoring.

21 Jan 2023
Positive Reads

Wake Up Early and Shine Before the Sun Does

The early bird gets the worm. It is also said that the first step to winning is waking up early. Waking up early has its benefits. Here are a few of them: Improved Cognitive function People who get up early typically have a higher concentration and are more alert and enthusiastic throughout the day. Success and getting up early could go hand in hand. According to a 2010 study, morning people are more aggressive and goal-oriented, have superior problem-solving abilities, and perform better in school, eventually enrolling in top-tier universities and securing well-paying jobs. Improves the Quality of Sleep Consistently getting enough sleep helps your body heal by enhancing your immune system, emotions, and basic cognitive functioning. Getting up early makes it simpler to go to bed early, and maintaining regular sleep and wake hours controls your circadian cycle and promotes deeper night time sleep. Time to Spare for Breakfast You can prepare a balanced and healthy breakfast if you get up early. A filling breakfast increases your propensity to choose healthier snacks later in the day, potentially lowering your risk of weight gain and obesity. Time for Morning Workouts Starting your day off on the right foot by working out in the morning when you're feeling the most energized is beneficial for both your physical and mental health. Waking up early makes time for the morning workouts. Better Mood and Mental Health Early risers have a more positive outlook than people who stay up late. They are found to be happier, more conscientious, and more upbeat people. Female early risers also have a significantly lower risk of mental diseases like depression or anxiety. So now, you have reasons enough to wake up early and welcome the sun!  

8 Nov 2022
Positive Reads

Obesity a Challenge

In India, obesity is showing an increasing trend. An obese person is one who is overweight and has excess body fat. It is the abnormal accumulation of body fat than the ideal body weight. It gives rise to many health problems like diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea among many others. The branch of medicine that deals with the study and treatment of obesity are called Bariatrics. One of the major causes of obesity is the change in diet from healthy food to junk food. There is no doubt that a  person's diet affects his overall health. The surge in fast food joints and restaurants has increased the consumption of fast food or junk food among people. Junk food refers to food that is high in calories, but low in nutritional value. They taste delicious and people are tempted to gorge on such food.  The rise in income of the people has led them to lead an unhealthy lifestyle. People can now afford to go to restaurants very often. Families choose to go to restaurants because they are convenient, but at what cost?  Spare your body of the oil-rich curries and rotis made of maida and opt for healthier food.  People also have irregular eating habits because of the stress and pressure of work. One must always follow regular eating hours. Allowing your body to go hungry because of the work deadlines and then later binge eating will only make the body store fat leading to obesity. Parents can always choose the diet for their children. Making the kids aware of the ill effects of eating chips, fries, soft drinks and other such unhealthy foods will deter them from eating such food and enable them to choose wisely that food that is good for their overall development. Workshops can be held in schools to educate children about healthy eating habits. Another major cause of obesity is a sedentary lifestyle. With technology coming into our homes, children are hooked to televisions, mobiles and play stations. Parents should encourage their children to play sports and other outdoor games. Lack of physical activity makes a child dull and susceptible to illness. Schools should make the student's participation in sports compulsory and large playground should be made mandatory in schools to create interest and enthusiasm in children for football, hockey basketball and such other sports.  Sitting for hours, working on their laptops, also make people prone to various diseases including obesity. A daily routine incorporating at least half an hour of vigorous exercise should be made and followed religiously. One needs to take time out from their hectic schedule for yoga or exercise as they help our body to remain fit and healthy, unlike those who don't exercise and become obese.  Obesity is an evil that is spreading its hood in our society and can be easily overcome by inculcating strict discipline in our lives towards our food and exercise.

15 Feb 2019
Positive Reads

Global Inspirations

Vending Machines in America to Provide Healthy Options to Counter Obesity Problems

Obesity is a growing problem all over the world which leads to other ailments like diabetes, heart disease and more. Taking note of the increasing cases of obesity in the US due to unhealthy eating habits, its vending machines will offer healthy snack options from January 1. The National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) recently announced that they are committed to public health and will substantially increase the percentage of “better for you”  options across all of the nation’s vending machines. The National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) NAMA represents nearly 1000 member companies including many of the world’s leading brands that make popular snacks. It serves snacks and beverages every day 24/7 through nearly four million vending machines across the country. NAMA has now collaborated with Partnership for a Healthier America and the Alliance for a Healthier Generation—two nonprofits dedicated to curbing obesity rates in the US in order to meet the growing demands of people for healthier snack options. ‘Better for you’ Options NAMA has decided to increase the percentage of “better for you”  options to its customers from January 1st across all of the nation’s vending machines. Under the commitment which is to be implemented over the next three years, one-third of all snacks will meet at least two recognized public health standards. Greg Sidwell, NAMA Chair, said that they will continue to collaborate with public health partners and encourage food manufacturers to support this important initiative through new products that meet the commitment. This initiative to offer healthy snacks in vending machines will go a long way in curbing obesity among the people. Image Source: CBS News

4 Nov 2019
Global Inspirations

New Study Shows Obesity Is Linked To Gene Mutation

A study led by the researchers at Imperial College London in the UK has revealed that obesity can be caused due to mutations in a gene. According to the researchers, a study of the genetic causes of obesity, and related conditions could be incredibly valuable in finding ways to treat them. They believe this new finding will offer new treatment possibilities in the fight against the global epidemic.There are some drugs available or being tested, but knowing what specific mutations cause obesity allows scientists to create drugs that target them specifically.

11 Jan 2018
Global Inspirations

Archives