Health - The Purbottar

01 Dec

Meghalaya Is Concerned About Rising HIV/AIDS Cases

Sonakshi SarkarHealth

The Meghalaya health department is alarmed by the rising number of HIV/AIDS cases, with over 10,000 individuals testing positive, including 500 children, particularly in the East Jaintia Hills district, which has the highest infection rate. Many affected children come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, highlighting social challenges amid this health crisis. The main transmission cause has been linked to unprotected heterosexual activities, compounded by individuals' reluctance to seek testing, which delays the detection and treatment of cases. Dr. K.L Iawbor from the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS) emphasized the need for collective action to combat the virus, aiming for an HIV-free…

25 Nov

Post-pregnancy health habits can prevent heart disease

Banasree SarkarHealth

Women who develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy may face higher risks of heart disease later in life — but a new study shows that this risk can be significantly reduced through healthy lifestyle habits. Researchers tracking over 4,300 women with a history of gestational diabetes found that those who consistently maintained five key habits — staying at a healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and drinking alcohol in moderation — lowered their risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 86%. Remarkably, over nearly three decades of follow-up, none of the women who followed all five habits…

20 Nov

Study links lifestyle to lower heart disease in mothers

Banasree SarkarHealth

Women who develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy may face higher risks of heart disease later in life — but a new study shows that this risk can be significantly reduced through healthy lifestyle habits. Researchers tracking over 4,300 women with a history of gestational diabetes found that those who consistently maintained five key habits — staying at a healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and drinking alcohol in moderation — lowered their risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 86%. Remarkably, over nearly three decades of follow-up, none of the women who followed all five habits…

12 Nov

Discover the advantages of flaxseeds for hormonal balance

Banasree SarkarHealth

Hormones are vital chemical messengers controlling bodily functions like metabolism, growth, reproduction, sleep-wake cycle, and mood. Hormonal imbalances can lead to hormone-related conditions, some temporary and others chronic. Diet plays a significant role in restoring hormonal balance, with certain foods rich in beneficial compounds promoting overall health. Some hormonal imbalances may require medical treatment, while others may be temporary. Flaxseeds are a rich source of protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, essential minerals, and vitamins, which are essential for hormonal balance due to their high content of lignans, which support estrogen metabolism and reduce gut inflammation. These phytoestrogens, particularly beneficial for…

31 Oct

Henna compound found to reverse liver scarring

Banasree SarkarHealth

A natural dye long prized for its use in body art and hair coloring may soon find a life-saving purpose in medicine. Scientists from Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered that natural henna, or Lawsonia inermis, contains pigments that could effectively treat liver fibrosis — a chronic and potentially fatal liver disease caused by long-term damage. Liver fibrosis occurs when scar tissue builds up in the liver following repeated injury or inflammation, often linked to excessive alcohol use or conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). If left untreated, the disease can progress to cirrhosis, liver failure, or even liver…

28 Oct

Doctors explain the real science behind popular weight-loss injections

Banasree SarkarHealth

In the age of social media transformations, diabetes drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro have earned near-mythical status among those chasing rapid weight loss. Promoted as “miracle injections” that silence hunger, shrink waistlines, and even reset metabolism, these medications have become viral staples of glow-up culture. But behind the glossy before-and-after photos and trending hashtags lies a less glamorous reality: once you stop taking the drugs, the weight often returns. Experts call it the rebound effect — and it’s rooted more in biology than behavior. How Ozempic and Mounjaro Work:Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) weren’t created as slimming shots. They were…

16 Oct

Exercise isn’t just for muscles—it’s for minds

Banasree SarkarHealth

For years, scientists believed adult brains couldn’t produce new neurons. But research over the past three decades has proven otherwise. A process called hippocampal neurogenesis—the creation of new brain cells—occurs in adults, particularly in the hippocampus, a brain region tied to memory, learning, and emotion. And one of the most effective ways to trigger this process? Exercise. The Brain-Boosting Power of Movement:Not all exercise benefits the brain equally. The type, intensity, and frequency of activity—and whether it involves cognitive engagement—can make a big difference. One proven method is dual-task walking, which combines movement with mental challenges like counting backwards or…

06 Oct

Seeds Can Encourage Hormonal Balance

Banasree SarkarHealth

Hormones are vital chemical messengers controlling bodily functions like metabolism, growth, reproduction, sleep-wake cycle, and mood. Hormonal imbalances can lead to hormone-related conditions, some temporary and others chronic. Diet plays a significant role in restoring hormonal balance, with certain foods rich in beneficial compounds promoting overall health. Some hormonal imbalances may require medical treatment, while others may be temporary. Flaxseeds are a rich source of protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, essential minerals, and vitamins, which are essential for hormonal balance due to their high content of lignans, which support estrogen metabolism and reduce gut inflammation. These phytoestrogens, particularly beneficial for…

22 Sep

Few healthy ways to start losing weight with Chia

Banasree SarkarHealth

Chia seeds a superfood rich in nutrients like fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids essential for weight loss. Combine chia seeds, almond milk, mixed berries, and maple syrup for berry chia pudding. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight. High in fibre and protein, it's a low-calorie breakfast or snack option. Chia seed smoothie is a delicious and energizing combination of chia seeds, unsweetened coconut water, frozen banana, mango chunks, and lime juice. It provides fiber, protein, and natural sweetness, making it a great addition to any diet. Chia seed scrambled eggs are a nutritious breakfast meal that provides fiber, healthy…

15 Sep

Not just flavor: these 8 desi ingredients could save your liver

Banasree SarkarHealth

Traditional Indian desi foods like bitter gourd, turmeric, garlic, and amla are rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and essential nutrients that support liver function, flush out toxins, and regenerate liver cells. These foods also enhance bile production, reduce fat accumulation, and fight oxidative stress. When combined with a balanced lifestyle, desi foods can act as natural tonics for optimal liver health. Amla, rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, aids in liver detoxification and regeneration. Consuming raw amla, juice, or candy regularly promotes detoxification. Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, reduces inflammation and fat accumulation. Garlic, rich in sulphur compounds and…