Latest news with #VitaminD
Time of India
9 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Bhumi Amla: What we need to know about this Kidney stone breaker plant
Image: Canva Nature has the answer to all of our problems, we just need to find what suits us the best. Known by its scientific name, Phyllanthus niruri, Bhumi Amla is a herb that has been used in traditional medicine for ages. This little plant, well known for breaking kidney stones, has many other health advantages. Bhumi Amla is a part of the Euphorbiaceae family and is native to tropical places, including the Amazon rainforest, Southeast Asia, Southern India, and China. It can reach a height of 30-40 cm. Here are the characteristics, advantages, and everything we need to know about this amazing plant. What are its nutritional and therapeutic benefits? Bhumi Amla is full of essential nutrients and therapeutic properties that make it a strong herbal remedy. Its nutritional profile includes: Proteins and vitamins: It is rich in crude protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K. Minerals: It contains significant amounts of sodium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, and zinc. These nutrients contribute to its wide-ranging health benefits, including its use in treating bronchitis, urinary problems, anaemia, leprosy, and asthma. Bhumi Amla is also effective in managing diabetes, chest pain, ulcers, and skin ailments. What is the healthiest way to have almonds? How does it help in breaking kidney stones naturally? One of the most celebrated benefits of Bhumi Amla is its ability to manage kidney stones. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Research has shown that the extract of Phyllanthus niruri inhibits the formation and aggregation of calcium oxalate crystals, which are the primary cause of kidney stones. It not only prevents the growth of these crystals but also alters their shape and texture, making them easier to pass. This claim has been mentioned in a research published in the US National Library of Medicine. The study states that Bhumi Amla or Phyllanthus niruri treatment significantly decreased the mean stone size. Bhumi Amla helps reduce urinary calcium levels, which is beneficial for individuals with hypercalcemia and hyperuricemia. By lowering excess uric acid and calcium, it prevents the recurrence of kidney stones, providing significant relief to patients. How to use Bhumi Amla Bhumi Amla can be used in various forms, including juice, decoction, powder, and topical paste. For kidney stone prevention and liver protection, a daily decoction or juice of the herb is recommended. Topical application of Bhumi Amla paste can help treat skin ailments and increase the speed of wound healing. How To Know If You Have Kidney Stones? Expert Explains Symptoms & Signs One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Time of India
14 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Menopause is not just hot flashes—it's a full-body reboot nobody talks about
Menopause refers to the stage of women's life which marks the end of her reproductive cycle and is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without mensuration. While being a natural biological transition, the timing of its onset is influenced by a variety of factors such as genetics, lifestyle, nutrition, environmental exposure and socio-economic conditions. According to studies, Indian women tend to reach menopause nearly five years earlier than women in many Western countries. While the global average age is around 51 years, Indian women typically experience it around the age of 46 or 47. A major reason for this could be nutritional deficiencies particularly among women from low-income and rural backgrounds. Chronic undernutrition and lack of micronutrients like iron, calcium, and Vitamin D are known to impact hormonal balance and accelerate ovarian aging. Hitting menopause early carries significant implications on women's health. Though inevitable, menopause is surrounded by silence. It is spoken of only in the form of jokes regarding hot flashes or referrals to "the change." Yet, menopause involves deep physical, emotional, and social transformation that have the potential to significantly affect a woman's quality of life. Like other issues of reproductive health, heightened awareness and early treatment are necessary. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Try This Homemade Bariatric Drink to Burn Belly Fat While You Sleep Hollywood News | USA Click Here Undo Talking about menopause in a holistic way can also serve to break down gendered health inequalities. As with infertility, where women get the blame and stigma—menopausal women are usually misunderstood, disregarded, or medically ignored. These are gendered trends that reinforce inequality, lower dignity, and undermine long-term health. Understanding the unspoken side of menopause For many, menopause conjures up feelings of embarrassment, hot flushes, mood swings and sleep disturbance. It is something uncomfortable, private, and seen as a "women's issue". There is societal stigma and taboos associated with menopause that affect a woman's ability to openly talk about it, seek information and healthcare services. This lack of openness doesn't just affect personal spaces, it extends into professional settings as well. Even in urban workspaces, it is not seen or recognised as a workplace issue. Even now, a recognition that menopause is a diversity and inclusion, and a business issue has not sunk in. Research has shown women experiencing perimenopause and menopause-related symptoms have often been misdiagnosed as suffering from mental ill-health or other conditions, and have also at times been misjudged as having attitude issues, lower engagement at work, lowered aspirations etc. This in turn has led to t heir lower motivation with higher intention to quit their job when wrongly assessed. Although few women change with hardly any symptoms, most suffer life-affecting ramifications that extend past unpredictable cycles. Typical but underdiagnosed symptoms are: Mood Disturbance: Irritability, depression, and anxiety caused by hormonal changes. Cognitive impairment: Trouble concentrating, memory lapses, and "foggy" mind. Sexual function problems: Vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and decreased libido. Metabolic alterations: Weight gain, increased risk of diabetes, and elevated cholesterol. Bone and cardiovascular health risks: Estrogen deficiency accelerates the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. The physiology of menopause: What's actually happening to the body At the core of menopause is a natural decline in ovarian function. The ovaries slowly decrease production of estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that cycle the menstrual cycle and underpin many other bodily systems. The hormonal transition derails the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, which regulates reproductive function. The loss of estrogen specifically has far-reaching consequences: Thermoregulation: Estrogen is crucial in the regulation of temperature. Its decrease impacts the hypothalamus, resulting in hot flashes and night sweats. Vaginal tissue: Decreased estrogen leads to thinning, dryness, and reduced elasticity of the vaginal lining, causing pain and discomfort during intercourse. Declining estrogen levels during menopause can lead to reduced bladder tone and contribute to urinary incontinence. Estrogen helps maintain the health of the lining of the bladder. Bone metabolism: Estrogen retains bone density by regulating osteoblast (bone-forming) and osteoclast (bone-resorbing) activity. Its deficiency hastens bone loss, making osteoporosis more likely. Cardiovascular system: Healthy cholesterol and blood vessel elasticity are supported by estrogen. Post-menopausal women have increased risks of atherosclerosis and heart disease. Neurotransmitters: Estrogen affects serotonin and dopamine—neurochemicals of mood and cognition. Deficiencies in these can result in emotional instability and memory problems. Appreciation of these physiological shifts emphasizes the value of hormone surveillance, nutrition counselling, and preventive health tests in women in midlife. Modalities such as bone density scans, lipid panels, and psychiatric evaluations need to become routine during and after menopause. Menopause requires a holistic, proactive management approach. One of the most common treatments for menopause-related symptoms is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT supplements the body with estrogen, either alone or in combination with progesterone, and helps to alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Studies also suggest that early use of HRT can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, as well as offer potential cardiovascular benefits. For women experiencing severe menopausal symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life, HRT can offer substantial improvements in well-being and daily functioning. There are two main types of hormone replacement therapy (HRT): estrogen therapy and combination therapy. Estrogen therapy involves taking estrogen alone, which is typically prescribed in a low dose and can be administered through various forms such as pills, patches, gels, vaginal rings, creams, or sprays. This option is usually recommended for women who have had a hysterectomy. On the other hand, combination therapy, also known as estrogen-progesterone therapy (EPT), includes both estrogen and progesterone (or a progestin) and is necessary for women who still have a uterus, as progestins help reduce the risk of uterine cancer. Combination therapy is available in pills, patches, and sometimes in IUDs. Your healthcare provider will recommend the best option based on your symptoms and medical history. Addressing the often-overlooked struggles of menstruation, reproduction, and menopause calls for a multi-pronged approach. Normalizing menopause through sustained media content — including expert voices and real stories — can drive awareness, tackle stigma, and reach women beyond just those nearing midlife. Preventive care must replace reactive treatment. Healthcare providers should initiate early conversations on hormonal health and well-being from the mid-30s, helping women prepare for this life stage. Workplaces, too, must integrate menopause into DEI and wellness policies, with flexible work options, sensitized leadership, telehealth access, and insurance support as key enablers. Dr Surbhi Singh, Cosmetic Gynaecologist, Beau Monde clinic, GK 1 One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Experts say vitamin D deficiency shows in your skin and legs - here are 6 signs
The NHS has said that around 1 in 6 adults in the UK have low levels of Vitamin D - and this can lead to a variety of skin and leg symptoms Vitamin D, often dubbed the sunshine vitamin, is crucial for our bodies. It's instrumental in everything from maintaining bone health to bolstering immune function. The NHS has revealed that approximately 1 in 6 adults in the UK suffer from low levels of vitamin D, which can result in rickets, bone pain and disabilities. In the UK, the majority of our vitamin D intake comes from sunlight on our skin during the spring and summer months, as dietary sources of vitamin D are scarce. The current guidance suggests all adults and children should consider taking a daily supplement of 10 micrograms of vitamin D between October and March. Certain at-risk groups are advised to contemplate taking a supplement all year round. However, uptake is minimal with only 1 in 6 adults reporting taking a daily supplement. This deficiency can manifest itself in various ways, particularly on the skin and legs. What you might brush off as mere itching could actually be a sign of a vitamin D deficiency. Identifying these symptoms early can lead to swift treatment. Here are six primary signs of Vitamin D deficiency that can appear on the skin and legs. Delayed wound healing. If you're lacking in vitamin D, you may observe that wounds take longer than usual to heal. This nutrient is vital for skin cell regeneration and wound repair. Research has revealed that Vitamin D is crucial for the creation of compounds necessary for new skin tissue growth, meaning that if you're experiencing persistent cuts, grazes, or sores, or they become infected easily, it could be a sign of low Vitamin D levels as your body's ability to heal is compromised. Chemist 4 U has issued advice saying: "If you have a wound that won't heal, see your doctor. Whilst a vitamin D deficiency could be at fault, it's best not to make assumptions. Slow wound healing can also be a symptom of an infection, poor circulation or even diabetes." Suffering from itchy skin? A lack of Vitamin D can lead to dry and itchy skin, which might result in conditions such as eczema or psoriasis due to the vitamin's role in skin moisture and health maintenance. The Nutritionist warns: "Dry, itchy skin is often a sign of a vitamin D deficiency. As vitamin D is created through skin exposure to the sun and cholesterol in the skin, in the winter months, when sunlight exposure is less, people often experience dry, itchy skin attributing it to the cold weather. However, a vitamin D deficiency might be a more likely cause." They further explain that in severe cases of vitamin D deficiency, coupled with other factors, autoimmune conditions like eczema and psoriasis can develop, highlighting the importance of early detection of symptoms. To combat this, one can include vitamin D-rich foods such as oily fish, eggs, and organ meat in their diet. Additionally, topical vitamin D oils can be applied to areas with significant redness and itching if that's identified as an underlying issue. Watch out for eczema-like symptoms. There might be more to Vitamin D than just bone health – emerging studies suggest it could be a combatant against eczema. Experts delve into the vitamin's possible connections to the skin condition, with lower levels of Vitamin D potentially leading to worse bouts of eczema due to its role in managing inflammation and bolstering the skin's defences. The National Eczema Society warned: "There has been some research into whether low levels of vitamin D trigger the development of eczema, and if taking supplements can improve symptoms. A key clinical review in 2015 proposed a link between eczema and lower levels of vitamin D, and found that vitamin D helped protect the skin barrier and suppress inflammation." They added, "A 2018 systemic review found that children under 18 with low vitamin D levels had more severe eczema, with 67% seeing improvements after taking vitamin D supplements." Moreover, a study featured in the British Journal of Dermatology uncovered that infants were less likely to develop atopic eczema in their first year if their mothers consumed 25mcg of vitamin D each day from the second trimester until birth. However, claims about Vitamin D's influence on the onset of atopic eczema still need stronger proof. "Nevertheless, supplements may be beneficial. Only a very small amount of sun exposure is required to build vitamin D levels, but the UK climate provides enough sunlight only six months of the year. For that reason, NHS guidelines recommend that everyone in the UK should consider taking a vitamin D supplement from October to April, and that those at high risk of not getting enough, including all children aged 0–4 (except for babies drinking more than 500ml of formula milk every day) should take it every day, all year long." Dull skin. The Centre for Surgical Dermatology who has flagged dull skin as a sign of trouble, remarking: "Symptoms of deficiency may include dry, dull, or flaky skin. Vitamin D plays a vital role in skin cell growth and repair, making it essential for healing wounds or recovering from skin conditions like acne and eczema. When your skin cells regenerate efficiently, it helps maintain a smooth, radiant complexion, even during the harsh winter months." They also note that while dry, dull, or flaky skin could indicate a lack of vitamin D, other factors such as dehydration, a poor diet, or insufficient sleep could contribute too. Leg pain. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to muscle weakness and bone pain, which might be why you're struggling with everyday activities like climbing stairs or getting up from a chair. This lack of vitamin D can cause leg pain, and in severe cases, it may result in bowing of the legs in children (known as rickets) or bone deformities. If your muscles feel weak and you're experiencing bone pain in your legs, especially when pressure is applied to your shins, it could be a sign that your vitamin D levels are low. Yale Medicine warns: "When vitamin D levels are low and the body isn't able to properly absorb calcium and phosphorus, there is an increased risk of bone pain, bone fractures, muscle pain, and muscle weakness. In older adults, severe vitamin D deficiency (levels less than 10 ng/mL) may also contribute to an increased risk of falls." Excessive sweating. One of the early signs of vitamin D deficiency is excessive sweating. It is often an overlooked sign. Excessive sweating, particularly on the head and face, is an early sign. Vitamin D plays a role in regulating sweat gland activity, and a deficiency can lead to overactive sweat glands. Dr Stephanie Barrett said: 'It doesn't sound attractive and it probably doesn't feel it either. Sweating from the head is a classic first sign of vitamin D deficiency. Excessive sweating not in line with the temperature or any other related conditions should be investigated as it could be an increase of vitamin D is needed.'
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
A Study Has Revealed The Biggest Risk Factors For Getting Early Dementia, And Knowledge Is Power
A recent study by the University of Exeter and Maastricht University published in JAMA Neurology has identified some of the factors that can lead to early cases of dementia ― some of which may surprise you. The data analyzed the behaviors of over 350,000 participants younger than 65 across the United Kingdom to evaluate young-onset dementia, which occurs before age 65. The researchers found there are 15 common issues that can contribute to the early development of the condition. A few have to do with genetics and other elements outside our control, but many others are modifiable. The study is meaningful to experts because it 'looks at young-onset dementia risk factors in a way that has only been done in late-onset dementias previously,' according to Dr. Kevin Bickart, an assistant professor in neurology at the University of California Los Angeles Health's David Geffen School of Medicine. The study features 'a very large sample that was prospectively followed from healthy baseline to a dementia diagnosis with lots of data collection.' Here's what to know: The biggest risk factors for young-onset dementia: Related: "This Has Taken Me Years And Years And YEARS To Figure Out": This Woman's Clever Way To Tell If Someone Is Your Real Friend Is Being Called The Most Accurate Thing Ever Related: 25 Eye-Opening Confessions From A Trauma Therapist That Changed The Way I Think About Mental Health The large-scale study looked at 39 possible risk factors and determined that 15 of them made the biggest difference when it came to developing dementia before the age of 65. Those include: Social isolation Lower formal education Lower socioeconomic status Carrying two copies of the APOE gene (a marker that influences Alzheimer's risk) Vitamin D deficiency Hearing impairment Alcohol use disorder No alcohol use (abstinence) Depression High C-reactive protein levels Lower handgrip strength (physical frailty) Orthostatic hypotension (a form of low blood pressure) Stroke Diabetes Heart disease Although some recognized risks are out of many people's control ― like being a carrier of the APOE gene or your socioeconomic status ― others can be managed through lifestyle changes. What you can do to lower your risk of early-onset dementia. Overall, the study results are consistent with what medical experts have been advising patients for years. Dr. Arman Fesharaki-Zadeh, an assistant professor of psychiatry and of neurology at the Yale School of Medicine, recommended three 'lifestyle measures' that folks may want to consider when trying to lower their risk of young-onset dementia ― starting with physical exercise. 'An active daily exercise practice can have far-reaching benefits, which include enhanced neurocognitive function,' Fesharaki-Zadeh said, adding that physical activity can boost neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons and synapses), vasculogenesis (the creation of new blood vessels) while also providing inherent mood benefits. Next, focus on eating nourishing foods. Fesharaki-Zadeh championed a Mediterranean-based diet, mentioning its well-documented benefits. 'Such dietary practice, which includes food groups such as green leafy vegetables, olive oil, salmon and blueberries, is rich in vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, as well as antioxidants ― all neuroprotective factors,' he explained. Fesharaki-Zadeh recommended cognitive, mood and social stimulation to keep your mind sharp. For cognitive stimulation, this could look like learning a new language or attending a seminar, listening to music or dancing. Basically, anything that engages your mind will help it stay healthy. Mood stimulation, on the other hand, relates to stress reduction practices, 'such as mindfulness and yoga,' Fesharaki-Zadeh said. As for social stimulation, it's pretty simple: Try to connect with other humans face-to-face and actually talk to them as much as possible. 'In the era of pandemic and now post-pandemic, quality social connections should increasingly be encouraged and practiced,' Fesharaki-Zadeh said. While these habits don't cover the whole list of dementia risk factors, they are a pretty solid article originally appeared on HuffPost. Also in Goodful: Therapists Are Revealing The Moments That Made Them Break Their "No Judgment" Rule, And I'm Honestly Speechless Also in Goodful: 19 "Garbage" Modern Trends People Refuse To Partake In Despite Their Popularity Also in Goodful: Medical Professionals Are Sharing "Mundane" Things That Actually Make So Many People Sick
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
5 signs of Vitamin D deficiency seen on skin and legs
Vitamin D deficiency, affecting a significant portion of the population, can manifest through various signs on the skin and legs. Slow wound healing, itchy or dry skin, and a dull complexion may indicate insufficient levels. Leg pain, muscle weakness, and excessive sweating, especially on the head, are also potential indicators, highlighting the importance of early recognition and intervention. Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, is essential for our body. From bone health to immune function, this nutrient plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. Despite its importance, vitamin D deficiency affects approximately 1 billion people. In some populations, the deficiency rate is almost 50%. This deficiency can manifest in various ways, particularly on the skin and legs. What you may think of as a mere itching on the skin could be a sign of vitamin D deficiency. Recognizing these signs early can help with timely intervention. Here are five key signs of Vitamin D deficiency that can be seen on the skin and legs. Slow wound healing A person with a vitamin D deficiency may find that the wounds take longer than usual to heal. This nutrient is crucial for skin cell regeneration and wound repair. Research shows that Vitamin D enhances the production of compounds necessary for forming new skin tissue. If cuts, scrapes, or sores linger or become infected easily, it could reflect insufficient Vitamin D levels, as the body's healing processes are compromised. Itchy skin That persistent itching on the skin, which you may assume is a reaction to a lotion or cream, could actually be something else. One of the most noticeable signs of Vitamin D deficiency is persistently dry or itchy skin. This nutrient supports the skin's barrier function and helps it retain moisture and protect against irritants. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 1 Tasse am Morgen! Ihr Bauchfett verbrennt den ganzen Tag! Apotheke Regional Undo However, when the vitamin D levels go down, the skin may become rough, scaly, or prone to conditions like eczema. Studies suggest that low Vitamin D levels impair the skin's ability to repair itself, and lead to chronic dryness, where skin is often thinner. Dull skin Yes, that's right. Vitamin D deficiency can manifest as dull skin or unusually pale skin. This is because adequate Vitamin D is crucial for maintaining a healthy complexion and overall skin well-being. This nutrient influences melanin production, which affects skin tone and vitality. This symptom is often subtle but can become more pronounced in individuals with limited sun exposure or darker skin tones, who are at higher risk for deficiency. Pain in the leg If you struggle with climbing stairs or rising from a chair, it may be time to check your vitamin D levels. Severe vitamin D deficiency can manifest in the legs through various symptoms, including bone pain, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, bowing of the legs (rickets in children) or bone deformities. Due to this weakness in the muscles, one may find it difficult to climb stairs or rise from a chair, and bone pain may be felt in the legs, particularly with pressure on the shins. 7 Most common signs of Vitamin C deficiency Excessive sweating One of the early signs of vitamin D deficiency is excessive sweating. It is often an overlooked sign. Excessive sweating, particularly on the head and face, is an early sign. This nutrient helps regulate sweat gland activity, and low levels may disrupt this balance, which leads to unusually sweaty skin. While sweating is normal, profuse or unexplained perspiration, especially in cooler conditions, could suggest a deficiency, especially when paired with other symptoms. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
