BOSTON A family history of dementia is by no means an absolute indictor of a future dementia diagnosis, according to a new study from Boston University. Researchers say that both family history and cardiovascular health influence an individuals chances of developing dementia.

So, people who are worried about dementia potentially being in their future due to genetics can mitigate their risk by focusing on cultivating a strong and robust cardiovascular system.

At the same time, however, these findings represent a bit of a double-edged sword. People who are both genetically inclined toward dementia and neglect their cardiovascular health are putting themselves in an especially precarious position regarding their cognitive future.

The study gives weight to the notion that while much of ones traits and proclivities can be traced to genetics, were all still very much in charge of their own future. Nothing is predetermined.

Regarding the studys findings, the presence of dementia-associated common gene variants alone were found to potentially double a persons risk of dementia. However, if that same person is in strong cardiovascular shape that dementia risk is cut in half.

Researchers say the effects of both genes and cardiovascular health on dementia risk are additive. This means either of those factors can solely raise or lower a persons dementia risk.

Just because you have a high genetic risk of dementia doesnt mean that you cant lower your risk by adopting a healthier lifestyle, says study lead author Dr. Gina Peloso, assistant professor of biostatistics at BUSPH, in a release.

Data on 1,211 people was used for this study. That information was originally collected as part of the Framingham Heart Study.That study single longest-running cardiovascular disease study performed in the United States. The project started in 1948, and the 1,211 people included in this study are the children of the original Farmingham study participants. Genetic data, cardiovascular health information collected between 1991-1995, and dementia screening results from sessions held starting in 1998 are all included in the analysis.

Ultimately, the studys authors found that people with a high dementia genetic risk score were 2.6 times more likely to develop dementia. Researchers zeroed in on a genotype, APOE 4, specifically linked to the condition. The genotype is found in 10-15% of the general population.

To gauge each persons cardiovascular health, the American Heart Associations seven components of cardiovascular health was used. Those components include: physical activity, cholesterol, healthy diet, blood pressure, smoking status, blood glucose, and weight.

The results are quite clear. The study shows that adults with strong cardiovascular health were 55% less likely to develop dementia.

We have long maintained that genetics is not destiny, that the impact of your family history and genetic risk can be lowered by healthy lifestyle choices. This is true for persons with low genetic risk and also for persons with high genetic risk of dementia, so it is never too soon and never too late to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle, concludes senior study author Dr. Sudha Seshadri, founding director of the Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimers and Neurodegenerative Diseases at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

The study is published in Neurology.

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Dementia run in the family? You can lower your risk by keeping a healthy heart - Study Finds

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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:The unhealthy food habits coupled with the sedentary lifestyle of Keralites could prove fatal as the state braces for the Covid-19 case peak. Citing global studies that being obese doubles the risk of hospitalisation and increases the risk of dying due to Covid-19, the state health department has stressed the need for adhering to a healthy lifestyle.

The department also says that the young population should exercise extra caution as obesity is prevalent among them. To corroborate the same, it points out that of the young Covid patients admitted in ICUs, obesity has found to be the villain.

Intensive Care Unit and ventilator admissions are increasing in the state. It is obvious that the elderly and those with comorbidities might need ICU or ventilator care. But now, young patients also need ICU admission and of them, a majority are found to be obese, said an officer of the health department.

When asked about this, Dr Bipin Gopal, state nodal officer for non-communicable diseases, said, Obesity is a problem and it is prevalent among the young generation. It is one of the triggering factors that could worsen the Covid-19 condition.

An intensive care specialist at a government medical college hospital said, Excess weight might result in other diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and a weakened immune system. This can make these individuals more vulnerable to Covid-19.

Earlier, the Public Health England, an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care in the United Kingdom, had stated that people with excess weight were at greater risk of needing hospital admission or intensive care. It was also found that people with obesity and Covid-19 were twice as likely to end up in the hospital and 74 per cent more likely to be admitted to intensive care. They were also more at risk of dying of Covid-19.

In the light of the study, the UK government released a new national strategy for tackling obesity. A similar strategy should be followed by the state. We have this eat right campaign. But it will have to be strengthened. People should be made aware of the need to stick to a healthy and nutritious diet, said the specialist.

At the same time, a section of the health officials said the state government should immediately roll out a campaign with the message lose weight to beat Covid-19.

Recently, Finance Minister T M Thomas Isaac in a social media post said ICU/ventilator admissions are on the rise in the state. Citing the condition at Government Medical College Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, the minister said there are two categories of admissions at the ICU -- the elderly and youngsters who are obese. The minister who tested positive for Covid-19 and was treated at the MCH was discharged on Tuesday.

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Lose weight to beat Covid-19, follow healthy lifestyle, say experts - The New Indian Express

Updated: September 19, 2020 9:24:02 pm

By Pooja Bhargava

In the era of Instagram and Snapchat, theres a lot of information available online that may not always be the solution to all your kids problems. Fad diets like keto, paleo, and military diets are taking social media by storm and they seem to be very appealing to young individuals who put a premium on physical appearance. These diets are often short-term solutions and they end up having long-term adverse effects. Hence, now more than ever, we need to help our children understand what it means to lead a healthy lifestyle.

As a parent, you pass more than just your genes to your children. Kids tend to pick up your habits from an early age, both good and bad. Hence, it is important that you set an example for your young ones by following a disciplined routine and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. When healthy habits are instilled early on in ones life, it becomes part of a lifestyle routine and goes a long way in ensuring a happier, healthier, and disease-free life. Here are a few habits that I have inculcated in my kids.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, is an adage I have personally lived by. It not only helps kids to kickstart their day with good energy levels but also teaches them to stick to regular meal times and teaches them the importance of having a routine. It is important to teach kids the value of being armed with good discipline as it always lends a better perspective towards life. Following the bodys biological clock also helps to keep chronic diseases at bay and ensures that your kids avoid late nights and drowsy mornings. Having a balanced and nutritious breakfast goes a long way in promoting an overall healthy lifestyle.

Read| Teach your kids healthy nutrition practices at an early age

With the pandemic-induced lockdown now having tied kids to their screens, it is extremely important for them to get enough exercise. Kids today arent playing outside as they used to; FIFA, Angry Birds, and Call of Duty have become the norm as opposed to Hide and Seek, Kick the Can, and Catch and Cook. It is important to get your kids out the door and ensure that they are exercising in some way or another for at least an hour everyday. Being physically active from an early age ensures that your kids have improved academic scores and are actively engaged in sports. The endorphins released when you exercise help fight academic stress and emotional distress. Playing a sport also teaches kids how to deal with lifes highs and lows from a young age and it also helps to enhance their social skills.

Make your kid read 10 minutes every day before going to bed. Let them choose what they like to read. Strong reading skills are essential to building a well-versed vocabulary. Make reading a fun activity so that they view it as a treat and not a boring chore. Ingraining the habit of reading reaps high returns in the long run as books will always help kids learn and add to their body of knowledge.

Creating a bond with your child and making them comfortable with confiding in you is one of the most rewarding experiences. Assigning dinner as a family meal is an easy way to go about this. This makes it easier to ensure that everyone is eating nourishing meals together. You can use dinner as an opportunity to have a conversation with your kids about their day; discuss films, literature, politics or whatever it is that excites you and them. Make it a point to take an interest in their interests even when they are something you never imagined being interested in! And lastly, be open-minded and understanding of the changing times, this ensures that they are comfortable reaching out to you when they are in need of help.

Theres nothing better for your kids routine than eight hours of uninterrupted sleep. Poor sleeping patterns can cause a decrease in the release of growth hormones, hence, affecting the development of bones and other cells and tissue. It also negatively affects immunity levels, leads to forgetfulness, and lack of concentration. Sleeping early and developing a daily routine that isnt interrupted on weekends will only do your child good in the long run.

Read| How to make sure your child is getting enough sleep

Kids must be taught the importance of basic hygiene from a young age. Practices such as brushing twice a day, flossing your teeth, washing your hands before and after each meal are simple and effective routines to keep illnesses at bay. It is essential that we teach our young kids the importance of being clean and well-groomed. Inculcating these habits from childhood will help kids have healthy teeth, good skin, and good gut health!

Raising emotionally healthy kids ensures that they do not look to food for comfort and prevents them from resorting to alcohol and drugs as a coping mechanism in their later years. Teach them to embrace all kinds of emotions because they have a right to their feelings. Allow them to release emotions such as anger and sadness in a healthy way from a young age. Teach kids the value of habits such as journaling and meditation; this could help them develop a good sense of judgment. Talking to them about anger management techniques can help them understand when to walk away from fraught situations. Allow them to cry and talk about their feelings as it helps teenagers deal with their sadness. Showing emotion must always be encouraged and not suppressed.

Raising a child comes with its ups and downs. Hopefully, my advice helps make your journey easier.

(The writer is a health coach, holistic nutritionist and fitness expert.)

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7 lifestyle habits to teach your kids - The Indian Express

Like it or not, eating for two isn't a license to eat twice as much as usual. Use healthy lifestyle habits to manage your pregnancy weight gain, support your baby's health and make it easier to shed the extra pounds after delivery.

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to pregnancy weight gain. Appropriate weight gain for you depends on various factors, including your pre-pregnancy weight and body mass index (BMI). Your health and your baby's health also play a role. Work with your health care provider to determine what's right for you.

Being overweight before pregnancy increases the risk of various pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes, high blood pressure disorders of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, and the need for a C-section.

Work with your health care provider to determine what's best in your case and to manage your weight throughout pregnancy.

If you're underweight before pregnancy, it's essential to gain a reasonable amount of weight while you're pregnant. Without the extra weight, your baby might be born smaller than expected.

Gaining too much weight during pregnancy can increase your baby's risk of health problems, such as being born significantly larger than average (fetal macrosomia). You might also be at increased risk of pregnancy-related hypertension, gestational diabetes, prolonged labor and the need for a C-section or delivery before your due date. Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can also increase your risk of postpartum weight retention and increases your risk of blood clots in the postpartum period.

Your baby might weigh in at 7 or 8 pounds. That accounts for some of your pregnancy weight gain. What about the rest? Here's a sample breakdown:

Larger breasts: 1 to 3 pounds

Larger uterus: 2 pounds

Placenta: 1 1/2 pounds

Amniotic fluid: 2 pounds

Increased blood volume: 3 to 4 pounds

Increased fluid volume: 2 to 3 pounds

Fat stores: 6 to 8 pounds

In the first trimester, most women don't need to gain much weight which is good news if you're struggling with morning sickness.

If you start out at a healthy or normal weight, you need to gain only about 1 to 4 pounds in the first few months of pregnancy. You can do this by eating a healthy diet no extra calories are necessary.

Steady weight gain is more important in the second and third trimesters especially if you start out at a healthy weight or you're underweight. According to the guidelines, you'll gain about 1 pound a week until delivery. An extra 300 calories a day half a sandwich and a glass of skim milk might be enough to help you meet this goal. For women who are overweight or have a BMI of 30 or higher, the guidelines suggest a weight gain of about 1/2 pound a week in the second and third trimesters. Try adding a glass of low-fat milk or an ounce of cheese and a serving of fresh fruit to your diet.

Your health care provider will keep a close eye on your weight. A dietitian also can help. Do your part by eating a healthy diet and keeping your prenatal appointments. To keep your pregnancy weight gain on target, your health care provider might offer suggestions for boosting calories or scaling back as needed.

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What's healthy pregnancy weight gain? | Feeling Fit - yoursun.com

Orthorexia is an eating disorder that is characterized as an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating.

It often involves restricting certain food groups and over emphasizes "clean eating" to a point where it interferes with quality of life.

It is difficult to estimate how many people have orthorexia as there is currently no formal diagnostic criteria.

Here is what you need to know about orthorexia from common symptoms to how it's treated.

People develop orthorexia when they obsessively fixate on "healthy eating." While deciding to pursue a healthy lifestyle isn't bad, people with orthorexia become compulsive and inflexible with their eating.

Unlike other eating disorders, orthorexia is usually not motivated by weight concerns or body image issues, says Meghan Windham, a registered dietitian at Texas A&M University.

Orthorexia often starts because a person wants to improve their overall health by taking control of the foods they eat. For many, this means turning to fad diets that restrict certain food groups or promote specific eating patterns. Windham says following these types of diets can quickly become obsessive, even if they don't start out that way.

People with orthorexia tend to be concerned about the quality of the foods they eat, rather than the amount of food that they eat. Food concerns can vary among individuals with orthorexia. For example, some may restrict major food groups such as dairy or gluten while others may be fixated with only consuming raw foods.

Orthorexia is not considered an official mental health condition by the DSM-5 the manual used to diagnose mental illnesses. One reason for this is because symptoms of orthorexia tend to overlap with other conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, anorexia, and other avoidant/restrictive food intake disorders (ARFIDs).

If left untreated, orthorexia can progress and lead to lasting mental and physical health consequences and may even take the form of other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa or bulimia, says Paula Quatromoni, DSC, RD, an associate professor and chair of the Department of Health Sciences at Boston University.

Like most eating disorders, the signs and symptoms of orthorexia are mental, behavioral, and physical. Orthorexia presents differently in individuals, so symptoms may vary from person to person.

Mental, or emotional symptoms, of orthorexia tend to be similar to those of other eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). These include:

Behavioral symptoms are some of the earliest signs of an eating disorder. According to Windham, those associated with orthorexia include:

People with orthorexia are at a higher risk of developing micronutrient deficiencies because they tend to restrict certain food groups. This can lead to physical symptoms if the deficiency is left untreated.

Here are some common micronutrient deficiencies in people with orthorexia and their corresponding physical symptoms:

These obsessive and compulsive behaviors around food choices can impede on a person's social life. "Some people find it easier to compulsively stay at home, rather than socialize to have complete control over theirfood environment, which quickly becomes a really isolating way to live," says Quatromoni.

It is important to try to recognize when someone needs help with orthorexia sooner, rather than later. "The longer someone has been in the trenches with this, the greater the health risks, and the longer the road to recovery will be," says Quatromoni.

It can be tricky to tell if someone has orthorexia or if they are just a healthy-eater. Windham says healthy eating has progressed to orthorexia when, "your food intake is governed by strict rules, rather than day to day choices."

According to Quatromoni, here are some signs that may indicate a person is developing orthorexia:

Early identification and intervention can help people with this disorder have the best possible outcomes in recovery.

If you are worried that someone you know may be experiencing these symptoms, here is some advice on how to approach them about your concerns, says Lauren Smolar, the director of programs at the National Eating Disorders Association.

"Oftentimes the symptoms we see in people with orthorexia are extensions of underlying psychiatric conditions or they are triggered by psychological stressors," says Quatromoni.

There are certain factors that place some people at higher risk of developing orthorexia. These include:

Orthorexia is treated with a combination of nutrition counseling and therapy. "It's important to work with a dietician to correct nutrient deficiencies and restore physical well being, as well as a mental health professional to treat the psychological side of this disorder," says Quatromoni.

"Nutrition counseling can help people with orthorexia relearn what a healthy plate looks like," says Windham. Nutrition counseling is education-based and can help people with orthorexia re-incorporate food groups they are scared of and understand the benefits of a varied diet.

Meanwhile, therapy can help people with orthorexia understand underlying mental health issues and stressors that may be driving their rigid food behaviors. If people are also suffering from anxiety or OCD, they may be prescribed medication to treat those conditions.

Read more about finding the best treatment options for eating disorders.

If you are concerned your healthy eating habits have become disordered or started to impede on your quality of life, you should seek help from a dietician, therapist, or contact the National Eating Disorders Helpline. "Even if you don't meet any official diagnostic criteria you are still deserving of care to help you work through the concerns you have about your behaviors," says Smolar.

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How to recognize the symptoms of orthorexia and get the help you need - Insider - INSIDER

Greece is popularly known for its beautiful islands, friendly people and most importantly, delicious foods. Locals are known to live long lives full of energy. Their diet is so popular that it is followed internationally by all cultures and loved by all for its positive health benefits.

Diet trends come and go, but the Mediterranean diet is one that is set to stay due to its wide range of ingredients to enjoy and the lack of limiting restrictions imposed by other diets.

It is a diet is that is easy to follow and incorporates fresh and flavoursome ingredients, packed with delicious herbs, vital vitamins and minerals which are needed to support a healthy lifestyle.

The Mediterranean diet is one of the most healthy diets in the world, seen more as a lifestyle, shedding negative connotations around the word diet.

What to expect to eat whilst enjoying this diet

The Mediterranean diet is not as strict as others, permitting a wide variety of foods that can be enjoyed and making it easy to follow. The diet promotes the consumption of foods that are high in Omega-3s and healthy fats, such as;

Individuals following this diet should reduce their intake of foods that contain:

The diet encourages healthy eating of foods that are made with fresh ingredients rather than processed foods that will damage an individuals gut health.

Here are 5 benefits that make the diet a must-try:

Good for your heart health

The Mediterranean Diet is most popularly known to benefit heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. This is due to the Omega-3 packed ingredients that are encouraged to be eaten whilst following this diet.

Good for your brain

A day of food packed with heart-healthy ingredients also has fantastic benefits for your brain health. The mediterranean diet may help prevent memory loss in the long term as well as reduce the risk of Alzheimers and other types of cognitive decline. About 60% of your brain is made of fat, half of that being made of Omega-3. Not getting enough of this fatty acid is linked to learning impairments, as well as depression. Fortunately, the Mediterranean diet is packed full of healthy fatty foods to be enjoyed daily.

Help with depression and anxiety

As briefly stated above, the amount of Omega-3 your body consumes has an impact on an individuals emotions which can lead to someone feeling depressed or happy. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to improve moods and can be found in items such as fatty fish. The Mediterranean diet also includes grains such as Quinoa which have been found to include flavonoid which is known to have a significant anti-depression effect.

Its good for your gut

The Mediterranean diet promotes consumption of a wide variety of fruits and vegetables which are known to improve healthy bacteria and overall provide positive effects on gut health. It also helps reduce inflammation and emphasises fibre-rich foods.

People with arthritis may benefit from this diet

The diet includes ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties, therefore following this diet may eliminate symptoms of Arthritis. For example, bananas are high in Magnesium and potassium that can increase bone density. Minerals such as Magnesium are also known to alleviate arthritis symptoms.

Overall, the Mediterranean diet is a stable diet that can be enjoyed by all. The diet encourages eating fresh and nutritious ingredients that provide a variety of health benefits as well as eliminating foods that will result in health issues, weight gain and other negative implications. Many individuals choose to follow the Mediterranean diet and have more success in being able to stick to it in the long term as the meal options to choose from are so much wider in comparison to other diets.

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The Mediterranean Diet And Why You Should Consider It - Greek City Times

To the extent possible one should try to adopt the practice of having early and light dinner. (Representational image: IE)

ByBhuvaneswari Ravindran

Ayurveda recommends that good food habits have to be followed up with a healthy lifestyle and exercising. In these lock down days, when we are stuck at home, engaged in indoor activities only, most people are forced to follow a sedentary lifestyle, with little or no physical activity. Most important routine that we should adopt is having a fixed time for waking up. Morning hours being the most energetic and fresh time, getting up early gives a good kick start to an active day.

Exercising daily for at least half an hour, on an empty stomach, is important. Breathing exercises like Pranayama help in managing respiratory ailments, improve immunity, lower stress and enhance the quality of life and are recommended even for people suffering from COVID-19. Maintaining hygiene of the body and surroundings is important.

Take a bath preferably twice a day, in room temperature water, depending on climatic conditions. Taking bath immediately after exercise is not recommended.

Ayurveda on importance of early dinner and good sleep

To the extent possible one should try to adopt the practice of having early and light dinner. While talking of early dinner, I remember the advice given by Padma Shri P.K. Warrior of Kottakkal Arya Vaidyasala that we should emulate birds, who take their dinner much before sunset and retire to their nest early.

Good sleep is a sign of good health. Our routine should be that of early to bed and early to get up and not sleeping during day time. These healthy lifestyle routines are easily adaptable and with proper food intake, we can sure build up our immunity level to fight the Virus.

With so much gloomy news floating around us, the Doctors concluding advice is worth emulating STAY HOME STAY SAFE encourage and transmit only positive thoughts. Those of us who are at home and with family, let us fully utilise this Stay Home time, spending more quality time with family, doing things which give pleasure to our mind. Meanwhile let us also pause can we be of some help to those around who are away from family or those who are trying hard to make both ends meet?

The long-drawn fight against Coronavirus is on in right earnest and there is no reason why we should choose to be the losers.

The author is Director (Retd.), Ministry of Home Affairs, New Delhi and Formerly Joint Development Commissioner (Special Economic Zones), CSEZ. Views expressed are the authors own.

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COVID-19: Ayurvedas emphasis on healthy food habits and good sleep - The Financial Express

Studies have found that more men are dying from COVID-19 than women, and women tend to have stronger immune systems than men.

Thats why Dr. Michael Lutz of Birmingham, founder of the MIU Mens Health Foundation, is encouraging men to take charge of their health. The foundation is hosting free drive-through screenings from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26 at 770 W. State Fair Ave., Detroit.

This is an opportunity for those who are delaying their health care services to start them in a very safe environment, said Lutz. Its also a chance to kick off a healthier lifestyle for those who may have been ignoring it. Our screenings save lives, and we have the most in-depth blood screening panel available at a free health event.

Services include vital screenings, a bloodwork panel, flu vaccinations, COVID-19 nasal swab and antibody testing, as well as HIV testing. All tests are offered without participants leaving their vehicles. These free tests will be provided in partnership with Wayne State University Physicians Group and are comprehensively valued at more than $500.

The event provides men age 18 or older with an assessment of their current health and screenings for some of the most treatable diseases. Attendees will learn how to live a healthy lifestyle and will receive information about mens health topics and advances in health care.

Early detection is the single most important aspect of treatment and recovery, said Lutz.

All attendees will receive a box of food courtesy of Gleaners Community Food Bank, containing fresh produce, lean protein and shelf stable items. For those attending on foot, bagged lunches will be provided, courtesy of Jack Aronson and Jacks Roadside BBQ.

More than 100 volunteers and licensed health professionals will operate 10 covered tents where the screenings will take place. They are trained to practice current health safety standards and will be wearing personal protective equipment. Participants are also required to wear face masks.

To reserve a spot, text MHE 2020 to 483-55 or visitTheMensHealthEvent.com. Email questions toinfo@miumenshealthfoundation.org. Detailed descriptions of all blood tests and screenings are available atmiumenshealthfoundation.org/screening-details. Men who choose to participate in the blood screening tests will receive a copy and explanation of their results by text or mail.

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Free men's health screenings held on Sept. 26 - The Oakland Press

The fountain of youth: fact or fiction? We all have that one friend or family member who never seems to age. They still move about with a teenagers agility, their energy exceeds that of the energizer bunny, and they seem to be virtually pain-free. However, our own morning grunts and groans tend to get louder as we increase our aspirin intake just to survive.

Health and wellness is a multi-trillion dollar a year industry. It seems like everyone on the planet is emptying their wallets, searching for the secrets to a healthy lifestyle. Multiple visits to doctors or health care practitioners mean numerous bills. Not only that, but how many times have you received conflicting information from different professionals?

Ryan Maxwell saw his family struggle with health growing up. They bounced around from specialist to specialist but were never able to attain long-term change. Maxwells entrepreneurial spirit started to show as he began formulating a plan to bridge this gap in the wellness industry from a young age. The future result was a fully integrated health model, Fluid Health and Fitness.

Fluid Health and Fitness concentrates on total wellness, including proper body movement, exercise, and nutrition. Maxwell has seen the benefits of whole wellness firsthand from his clients in their 70s, 80s, and 90s who now engage in life without restriction. Maxwell says that Making my health a priority even in small ways now has vastly changed the course of my future.

Maxwell is a firm believer that knowledge is essential to building and keeping a healthy lifestyle. First and foremost, you have to know what you want from a healthy lifestyle and why you want to change. If you dont know your why, it will be hard to adapt to the how. Once someone has a full understanding of why they are doing something, it is easier to stay motivated. Long lasting results then come from your own bodys education, the knowledge on how to apply what you know, and the support to be consistent.

Of course, there are times when Maxwell runs into clients that are resistant or hesitate to change certain aspects of their life for overall health. In this case, it is essential to provide a greater awareness of health and life choices and the consequences that can come with them. All of our nutritional choices may not have immediate effects. But knowing that your choices today can influence your future can push you enough to make a change for the better.

Starting a virtual training program has further filled the void of striving for a healthy lifestyle while stuck at home. This virtual resource connects those at home to stay healthy and have all of the specialists they need in one spot. The response to Fluid Health and Wellnesss virtual program has been incredibly positive. This virtual training allows clients to connect with the trainer personally and communicate with the group. Therefore a client receives virtual community support, which would otherwise be lacking with other virtual programs.

Today, Maxwell continues to help clients improve their overall health by offering a whole wellness approach both in-person and virtually. Your body is designed to move and live free. Once you restore your body to its original working order, the benefits will be endless.Opinions expressed here are the opinions of the author. Influencive does not endorse or review brands mentioned; does not and can not investigate relationships with brands, products, and people mentioned and is up to the author to disclose. VIP Contributors and Contributors, amongst other accounts and articles, are professional fee-based.

Dr. Jay Feldman is an Osteopathic medical doctor, speaker, and serial entrepreneur. He is the founder of several successful companies such as Otter Public Relations, Instelite, and REX Fitness. In addition to running multiple businesses, he hosts the Mentors Collective Podcast where he teaches the secrets to business success and creating freedom. He maintains a strong social media presence with over 200,000 followers. Dr. Feldman was recently named International Business Times Top Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2020

Published September 19, 2020

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How Ryan Maxwell Filled a Void in the Wellness Industry - Influencive

Physicians and public health experts know that older adults are more susceptible to the flu than those in other age groups. We also know the health of Black Americans is worse than that of almost all other groups for not only flu, but for chronic conditions and cancer. These are two examples of health disparities, or health gaps when demographic groups show differences in disease severity.

As we analyze the latest data from the COVID-19 pandemic, a more complete picture on infections, hospitalizations and death rates has emerged, along with new conversations about health disparities. The COVID data underscore what social scientists, epidemiologists and other public health researchers have long said: It is not enough to look at a lump sum of data about any health issue, including COVID-19, and think we have the full picture.

By disaggregating the data that is, breaking the data down into subgroups, like age and race we can learn how to make the most of our limited resources. Do that, and we can better strive for a more equitable society and increased entry to a healthy lifestyle for all Americans.

As a practitioner and scholar at Mississippi State University (sometimes we call ourselves pracademics), I am driven by compassion and science. Now, with the recent advent of faster and faster access to more and more data, collecting and analyzing disaggregated information data about gender, ethnicity, disability and neighborhoods, along with age and race has become one of the biggest components of public health practice.

Early in the pandemic, as the virus reached Mississippi, its state Department of Health began reporting numbers each day. To be able to assess case and mortality rates, I linked data with the census reports of Mississippis population.

I quickly found this: The percentage of African Americans who got COVID-19 was higher than that for whites; the percentage of African Americans who died from it was also higher than that for whites. But among all people, whites were more likely to die from COVID-19 if they got it.

I was curious the rates would change direction between races. Because I was examining total population data not data disaggregated by setting I thought there might be something about a particular setting or subpopulation that was driving that odd finding. Maybe it was a specific part of the state or a certain sector of the workforce? Maybe it had something to do with long-term care facilities? That last question would be an important one.

After breaking down the data across settings, and looking at just the rates for people living in the community versus those living in a long-term care or nursing home facility, it all began to make sense. I found the unusual change in the datas direction resulted from the long-term care populations being overwhelmed with cases. In Mississippi, our long-term care residents are more likely to be white. The relationship between race and COVID-19 mortality is different between the community and long-term care facilities.

From a statistical perspective, disaggregation is important. It gives us the backing we need to demonstrate the complexity of the relationship between factors like race and COVID-19 infection and mortality rates.

The case in Mississippi tells us that if we dont disaggregate the data, we would have an incorrect picture of whats happening with COVID-19. We would have probably patted ourselves on the back for not having such bad racial disparities after all. But a deeper dive into the data shows that racial disparities persist. And when we look at long-term care facilities, we find problems of a different sort.

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My experience in exploring COVID-19 cases is specific to Mississippi. We need to replicate this nationally, and with other subpopulations, including K-12, college and university settings, residential care facilities and prisons. We must also bring representatives from these populations to the table and engage them in the decision-making process. Furthermore, the data should drive our advocacy for resources at the local, state and federal levels. More than ever before, we must rely on science to guide us in responding to COVID-19 and future public health crises.

As society eventually recuperates from COVID-19, we must not lose sight of the lessons it has taught us. Our data must be granular enough so we can know how each subpopulation is handling not just COVID-19, but chronic disease, cancer, injuries and gun violence. Then, and only then, can we improve our decision-making on health issues and make sure access to public health services and clinical care is available for everyone.

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How a new way of parsing COVID-19 data began to show the breadth of health gaps between Blacks and whites - The Conversation US

For a fourth time, a member of Vicksburgs medical community is poised to take the top leadership position with the Mississippi State Medical Association.

Vicksburg pediatrician Dr. Geri Weiland was elected the associations president-elect in August. She becomes association president in August 2021 and will join three other Vicksburg doctors who have held the associations top post.

Drs. Briggs Hopson Jr., Randy Easterling and Dan Edney have each lead the association.

A former resident of Pascagoula, Weiland is a graduate of LSU and the University of Mississippi Medical School and has been practicing at Merit Health River Region since 1983. She was serving as the associations first female speaker of the house in more than 150 years before becoming president-elect.

Im not the first female president, but the fourth Vicksburg president, which I think is another testament to Vicksburgs involvement in organized medicine, she said.

Weiland said her election is an honor and a little scary because its a commitment for a lot of work. Ive been in a leadership position for over 11 years as the vice speaker and speaker, but this is going to be a little bit different to be the spokesperson for the organization.

As president-elect, her primary responsibilities will involve trying to stay up with the associations projects and its goals. She will also be observing association President Dr. W. Mark Horne.

I have a year to learn, she said.

Outside of its work involving public awareness of COVID-19 and assisting medical practices affected by the virus, Weiland said the associations emphasis usually involves its legislative agenda and staying on top of things important to the physicians in the state.

Its mostly about trying to improve the health of Mississippians, Weiland said. A lot of times if you want that to happen you can do it through public service announcements, but you really have to work with the Legislature to get those things done that you hope will help Mississippians.

As president, she said, I feel like I want to promote health for Mississippians and see that we stay strong on vaccinations. Id like to promote healthy eating, healthy lifestyles, vaccinations; all those things are important to me.

As a pediatrician, to me, I realize if you dont get children interested and young people interested in a healthy lifestyle and avoiding those things that are not healthy for you. Its hard to do as an adult, Weiland said. I feel like I have lived long enough to have watched vaccines work. The medical community eliminated smallpox in the world. When I started my practice, polio was eliminated in the U.S. Ive seen it work. I know the importance of it.

Dr. Weiland is married to Michael Weiland Sr. Together they have a son, M. David Weiland Jr., who along with his wife, Courtney, have a son, Charlie.

M. David Weiland Jr., is a pediatric cardiologist at University Medical Center.

John Surratt is a graduate of Louisiana State University with a degree in general studies. He has worked as an editor, reporter and photographer for newspapers in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. He has been a member of The Vicksburg Post staff since 2011 and covers city government. He and his wife attend St. Paul Catholic Church and he is a member of the Port City Kiwanis Club.

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Vicksburg physician set to take top spot with state's medical association - The Vicksburg Post - Vicksburg Post

Highlights

Weight loss has always been at the centre of every health-related discussion. Shedding some extra kilos not only helps us fit in our favourite outfit but also does wonders to our overall health. Moreover, it may help decrease the risks of several lifestyle-related diseases. In the current scenario (on-going Coronavirus pandemic) when we all have curtailed our outdoor activities, many people have been complaining about weight gain. If you happen to be one of them, then this article is just for you!

Food and drinks play an important role in weight management. As per experts around the world, what we consume on a daily basis share a symbiotic relationship with a healthy lifestyle and weight loss. Although a proper weight loss journey needs time and dedication, there are some detox drinks that help speed up the process. One such example is of detox water made with healthy kitchen spices like black pepper(kali mirch) and clove (laung).

As per Macrobiotic Nutritionist and Health Practitioner Shilpa Arora ND, "Black pepper is loaded with a compound called piperine. It is known to accelerate metabolic performance and lowers the rate of fat accumulation in our body."

Also Read:6 Amazing Black Pepper Benefits: More than Just a Spice

Cloves contain eugenol that is known to promote digestion and speeds up metabolism. Good digestion is one of the key factors for effective weight loss.

Also Read: Including Clove And Cinnamon In Green Tea May Help You Shed Extra Kilos

For the unversed, our digestive tract is dubbed to be responsible for absorbing the nutrients from food. Hence, any issue in the system may create a problem in our weight loss journey.

Drink this black pepper and clove detox water early in the morning and give a healthy start to the day. But always remember, moderation is the key!

1 glass water

4 black pepper

2 cloves

Step 1. Soak the black pepper and cloves in water over-night.

Step 2. Next morning, boil the water and strain it.

Step 3. You may add some lemon and pink salt to the water to immune-health and stamina.

Eat healthy, stay fit!

(Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)

About Somdatta SahaExplorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day.

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This Black Pepper And Clove Detox Water May Aid Weight Loss And Digestion - NDTV Food

When it comes to Hollywood stars and other celebrity figures, it can be easy to forget that they are people like everyone else. Sure, they have unparalleled fame and wealth (must be nice), but they also have issues with their families, have been in bad relationships, and struggled with health problems. No more so is that evident than in the recent and untimely death of Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman, who passed away on Aug. 28 from colon cancer at just 43 years old. And Boseman was not alone in his struggle with cancer among the Hollywood community. In fact, many famous figures we all know have dealt with serious, life-threatening medical conditions over the yearsoften while their careers were thriving. Thankfully, in many cases, the outcomes are not always as tragic as Boseman's sadly was. With that, here are some of the biggest celebrities who battled cancer and won. And for more on a health condition diagnosed in a number of iconic artists, check out Celebrities Who Are on the Autism Spectrum.

Ben Stiller credits the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test with saving his life. While the American Cancer Society recommends that men at average risk for the disease start getting screened at age 50, Stiller was 46 when his doctor recommended he get tested. And it's a good thing he did. The actor was subsequently diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014 and then underwent surgery three months after to remove the tumor. He has been cancer-free ever since.

"The bottom line for me: I was lucky enough to have a doctor who gave me what they call a "baseline" PSA test when I was about 46," Still wrote in an essay he published online in 2016. "I have no history of prostate cancer in my family and I am not in the high-risk group I had no symptoms." The comedian added: "If he had waited, as the American Cancer Society recommends, until I was 50, I would not have known I had a growing tumor until two years after I got treated." And for more on another famous figure's battle with a life-threatening illness, check out 4 Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer Alex Trebek Wished He'd Known Sooner.

While she was having success on screen as the lead in Veep, the hilariously irreverent HBO series that showcased her comedic abilities perhaps even better than her breakout role as Elaine on Seinfeld, the late 2010s were a hard time for Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Her father died in September 2016 and year later she was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer, which led to a brutal six rounds of chemotherapy and a double mastectomy. The outcome was positive and Louis-Dreyfus is currently cancer-free, but she's still a bit hesitant to accept that as the end of her story. "I'm still working it out, to be honest with you," she told Vanity Fair in August 2019. "I'm glad I got through it, but there's a part of me that's still a little frightened, you know?" And for more on this particular disease, check out 17 Subtle Signs You May Have Breast Cancer.

In 2008, while promoting the film Deception, Scottish actor Ewan McGregor was encouraged by his doctor to have few suspicious moles on his face looked at by a specialist It turns out at least one of them was concerning enough to be removed and turned out to be skin cancer. The Trainspotting and Star Wars star is fine now, but cautions people to have any odd looking or new moles looked at by a dermatologist immediatelyespecially those who have a similarly fair skin tone.

"You have to be careful if you're pale-skinned and spend any time in the sun," McGregor told the BBC in 2008 following the incident. "I went to see a specialist who thought they were better to be removed, and indeed he was correct." And for more on this often subtle, but serious disease, check out 27 Skin Cancer Facts Doctors Wish You Knew About.

Like Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Christina Applegate, star of Netflix series Dead to Me, underwent a double mastectomy after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008. Since then Applegate has been cancer-free and founded the Right Action for Women, an organization that helps at-risk women pay for MRI screenings and testing, she told Today in 2017. In addition to living a healthy lifestyle, in order to help prevent the cancer from returning, Applegate also made the decision to have her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed.

Veteran broadcaster Robin Roberts is one of the most inspirational figures for people battling cancer. As an award-winning journalist and longtime anchor of ABC's Good Morning America, Roberts established herself as a familiar face and trustworthy news source in homes across the country. But after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis in 2007 and then, just five years later, finding out she had a rare blood disorder called myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), Roberts came to represent something even more personal and powerful, handling her excruciating battle with illness with a kind of grace and resilience that continues to inspire millions to take control of their own health.

When asked how she was doing in a 2018 interview with Cure magazine, Roberts said: "Strong like bull! I'm not one of those people who use the word "remission," but I'm grateful that at this point there is nothing detectable. I get my regular checkups, and I just love that I feel like myself again. It took quite a few years." And for more helpful health information delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.

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Celebrities Who Battled Cancer and Won - Best Life

Menopause is an inevitable phase in a woman's life when menstruation stops after ovarian activity loss. Dt Roopshree Jaiswal, Consultant Nutritionist & Dietician, Motherhood Hospital, Indore explain how women can maintain their health post-menopause.

Menopause is the phase that most women look forward to. No more monthly periods means no more running after sanitary napkins, no more period cramps and definitely no more cancelling all those adventure activities because you have your period. Freedom at last! This long-awaited freedom comes with a little extra effort to be taken from our side to ensure we stay as healthy as always.

The one thing that every woman knows is that menopause means the end of your period struggles, but little do we pay attention to all that comes with it. Once a woman reaches menopause, she also undergoes several other changes like fluctuating moods, hot flashes, problem falling asleep, weight gain, frequent urge to urinate, vaginal dryness, a lowered sex drive and a higher risk of bone fractures. This is not only because of menopause but also driven by various other factors like age and existing health conditions and lack of a healthy nutrition plan in place.

#1 Increase your calcium intake

As you age, your bones become more fragile and there is calcium deficiency. The chances of you having to endure a fracture are higher. The best way to keep this under control is by increasing your intake of calcium. Calcium also increases the strength of your teeth avoiding loose teeth and encouraging stronger gums. It is advisable to increase the intake of calcium-rich food. A glass of warm milk at night and a bowl of yoghurt coupled with green leafy vegetables, soya chunks, cheese and fish or meat can be a good source of calcium and must be incorporated in meals.

#2Iron rich food

Iron-rich food will greatly help in improving your blood flow, especially after menopause when blood is more stagnant in your body. Lean red meat, poultry, fish, eggs, leafy green vegetables, nuts and enriched grains are great sources of iron. It is generally recommended that you manage to incorporate at least 3 servings of iron in a day.

#3Physical exercise

After menopause, it is common to see a drastic weight gain in most women. This weight gain is caused due to the lowering of estrogen levels in your body. Physical exercise at this age comes with several benefits to the heart, stabilises blood pressure, diabetes and even improves your mood. Fun activities like walking, jogging, swimming, biking and even dancing will help to improve your health.

#4 Dietary fibre

Age always brings with it several complications. Your body gets older and the digestion process becomes more difficult. The more you simplify the digestion process for your body, the easier it becomes. The simplest method of doing this is by including fibre rich food in your diet. Choose whole-grain breads and cereals over-processed food. Fresh fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamins and nutrients and can be easily processed by your body. Cut back on highly processed food and high-fat food, this will ensure sane cholesterol levels.

#5 Hydrate

The most important thing during any phase in life is to keep yourself hydrated. You have heard every doctor say it in every appointment possible, showing how important it is to keep yourself hydrated. Especially post-menopause when your body goes through so many hormonal changes and fluctuating mood, hydration is mandatory. Drink plenty of water, preferably carry a bottle of clean water everywhere you go. Alcohol is not considered hydration. In fact, it does the very opposite and dehydrates your body. So, make sure you drink plenty of water before laying hands on that bottle of wine. A glass of water half an hour before and after food will also aid digestion.

Menopause can come with mood swings and so many physical and emotional fluctuations. But the more you pay attention to your nutrition. the lesser complications you have to worry about. With all these tips in mind let us not forget to maintain a healthy lifestyle even post-menopause and enjoy the period of free life!

ByDt Roopshree Jaiswal, Consultant Nutritionist & Dietician, Motherhood Hospital, Indore.

ALSO READ:Here's why women should stay healthy before and after pregnancy explains Dr Anu Vij

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5 Things to include in your daily routine to maintain your health post menopause - PINKVILLA

Arthritis is the most common joint disorder in the United States, and knees are often the first joints affected by the condition.

One study found that in people above age 60, more than 10 percent of men and 13 percent of women had symptoms of arthritis in their knees.

OTC and prescription pain medication can offer relief, but are frequently associated with side effects. These side effects include kidney damage and heart problems.

Almost 20 percent of Americans report some degree of knee pain, according to figures published in 2006 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Pain can range from mild stiffness to levels that are nearly disabling.

Recent studies have found that turmeric, a flavorful spice popular in India, may help relieve joint pain. The spice is popular in Ayurvedic medicine, but is mainly used in food in the United States and not as a medication.

Experts say that there is increasingly clear evidence that the active ingredient in turmeric may have health benefits.

It is widely believed that curcumin, which is the active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. And for this reason, its frequently used as a supplement by many people to help with joint symptoms, Dr. Nagendra Gupta, FACP, CPE, an internist at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital, told Healthline.

A study published in the medical journal Trials compared the effectiveness of turmeric to that of an anti-inflammatory drug called diclofenac.

The randomized trial gave 139 patients with knee pain either a 500-milligram (mg) capsule of curcumin three times a day or a 50-mg diclofenac pill twice daily. Scientists found that both groups experienced significant pain relief.

Curcumin has similar efficacy to diclofenac but demonstrated better tolerance among patients with knee OA. Curcumin can be an alternative treatment option in the patients with knee OA who are intolerant to the side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the study authors wrote.

In another study, published this week in the Annals of Internal Medicine, researchers at the University of Australia in Tasmania assigned 70 participants, over age 40, with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and swelling diagnosed by ultrasound, to receive either 1000 mg per day of turmeric or a placebo.

After 12 weeks, the randomly controlled placebo trial found that an extract of turmeric was more effective than a placebo in reducing knee pain in people with knee osteoarthritis.

Those taking turmeric reported significantly less knee pain at the end of the study, according to the standardized questionnaire.

Researchers emphasized that more research is needed, and the only limiting factor of their study was the small number of participants.

This research also received funding from Natural Remedies PVT Ltd, a company that offers Ayurvedic medicines and herbs.

While this may indicate a conflict of interest, previous research also supports this spices effectiveness for pain relief.

Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) is a frequently used spice in South Asian foods like curries, and it can add a warm orange or yellow color to meats and rice dishes. It also has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine.

The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, and research finds that it has a surprisingly wide range of beneficial properties.

Curcumin, unlike some NSAIDs, has also been determined to be nontoxic. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, taken in excess can cause symptoms that include convulsions, coma, and acute renal (kidney) failure.

Experts say that given turmerics known health benefits, including it in meals is best.

Eating turmeric with fats or oils can improve absorption.

Turmeric however, specifically the phytonutrient curcumin, has so many health benefits, so definitely incorporating turmeric into meals would be ideal as part of an overall healthy lifestyle plan, said Reema Kanda, RD, a clinical dietitian at Hoag Orthopedic Institute.

Incorporating turmeric into meals that contain fats and oils or black pepper will enhance absorption.

Kanda emphasized that the quality of the turmeric powder can also affect bioavailability. She also said, You want to be sure the turmeric powder is free of contaminants that are often found when making powders.

She added that many studies have utilized turmeric extracts over turmeric powder, which has higher amounts of curcumin. Because of that, the studies recommended extracts for therapeutic use for health benefits such as improving in joint pain.

Theres strong evidence that eating the Mediterranean diet may provide significant knee pain relief in people with OA.

Researchers reviewing three different studies found that people with symptoms of arthritis had an improved quality of life after starting the Mediterranean diet.

According to the study, the Mediterranean diet may benefit OA because of its anti-inflammatory properties, tendency to reverse metabolic syndrome (a risk factor of diabetes), and reduce obesity.

Researchers say the diet is also rich in polyphenols (plant compounds), which can prevent inflammation and cartilage destruction, and this could also be why it shows benefit.

While there is no specific diet that works as a cure for arthritis, various studies have shown that a Mediterranean diet can help fight the inflammation associated with arthritis and slow the disease progression, said Gupta.

As always, getting the right dosage is key to staying healthy. While turmeric may help joint pain, more is not always better.

Consuming large amounts of turmeric can have side effects.

Subjects in a 2006 small dose-response study reported a range of adverse reactions from using 500 mg to 12,000 mg of curcumin daily, although the researchers found overall participants tolerated the high levels of the spice.

Of 24 participants, seven reported side effects that included headache, diarrhea, and skin rash. All but one of the people with side effects were taking over 4,000 mg of turmeric.

Turmeric is also high in oxalate, a chemical that in large doses can combine with calcium to create kidney stones.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is generally recognized as safe. However, the FDA has previously warned that turmeric from Bangladesh contained excessive levels of lead, which can adversely affect health.

Studies have shown that turmeric can have strong anticoagulant effects, which could affect how blood-thinning drugs work in the body.

If you want to try using turmeric to treat joint pain, its always a good idea to speak with your doctor first to make sure it wont interact with medications youre already taking.

Joint pain, especially in the knee, due to arthritis affects about 1 in 10 older Americans.

Research finds that an ingredient in the spice turmeric can significantly reduce knee pain in people with osteoarthritis but it wont improve swelling or change cartilage.

Although considered safe by the FDA, there is strong evidence that turmeric can interact with blood-thinning drugs, and the agency has warned that turmeric imported from Bangladesh has shown high levels of lead.

More:
Want to Take Turmeric for Arthritis Pain? Here's What to Know - Healthline

SINGAPORE - Madam Ahsathiamal Subramanian, 65, has diabetes. The diagnosis two years ago means she has all five risk factors for metabolic syndrome, which puts her at serious risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease and stroke.

Over the years, she has also been found to have hypertension, high triglyceride levels, low levels of good cholesterol and excess fat around the waist as she is overweight, the four other risk factors.

A diagnosis of metabolic syndrome requires one to have three of the factors.

The retiree is one of many seniors in Singapore who have metabolic syndrome.

A study conducted by researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine's Department of Medicine showed that metabolic syndrome affected almost one in two people aged 65 and above, with a higher prevalence in women than men above 70 years old.

Eight in 10 women above the age of 85 were found to have the syndrome.

The study, which took place between April 2015 and August 2016, evaluated 722 participants in Singapore aged 65 and above.

The findings were published in Dove Medical Press, a publisher of peer-reviewed scientific and medical journals, in July this year.

Associate Professor Reshma Merchant from NUS Medicine, who was one the leads in the study and authored the paper, said: "With ageing, there is increased prevalence of chronic diseases, higher fatty tissue and lower muscle mass which puts older adults at a higher risk of getting metabolic syndrome. A sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise or manual work also puts them at an increased risk."

In Madam Subramanian's case, a hectic work life, including a punishing daily shuttle between Telok Blangah where she lives and Johor Baru where she was a vice-principal at a primary school, gave her a false sense that she was active.

In fact, she had often felt giddy and could not stand up for too long without feeling faint. When she consulted a doctor about her giddy spells 20 years ago, she was found to have hypertension.

There are also ethnic differences in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, with more than one in two Indians suffering from the condition as compared with one in three Chinese and one in two Malays.

Prof Merchant said there may be a genetic influence on how fat is distributed in different ethnic groups.

"Indians and maybe Malays tend to have higher body fat or abdominal obesity even at a normal range of body mass index. Abdominal obesity or increased visceral fat in Indians is a marker of the presence of insulin resistance, which are risk factors for hypertension, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease... Metabolic syndrome can develop after a prolonged state of insulin resistance," she said.

Insulin resistance means the body does not use insulin efficiently to lower glucose and trigly-ceride levels.

Prof Merchant, who is the head and senior consultant at the National University Hospital's Division of Geriatric Medicine, said: "In insulin resistance, the insulin receptors which act as the doorman guarding glucose entry into the cells become desensitised. As the insulin released in response to meals is not so effective, the body initially produces more insulin which can cause higher blood pressure, blood fats, inflammation, blood clotting, and fat storage in the body."

If left unaddressed, the arteries can be damaged, leading to stiffness, calcium deposition and plaque formation.

The NUS researchers also found a weaker hand grip strength among seniors to be an indicator of metabolic syndrome.

Adjunct Assistant Professor Samuel Chew, senior consultant at Changi General Hospital's Department of Geriatric Medicine, who read the findings of the study, said the components which make up metabolic syndrome such as the loss of sensitivity to insulin may be a result of poor muscle health.

"This is because muscles are a major contributor in the regulation of glucose metabolism in the body. Healthy muscles release and enhance the functioning of hormones and other mediators of glucose metabolism."

Prof Merchant noted that the loss of muscle mass and strength due to ageing, also known as sarcopenia, is associated with a two-fold increased risk of metabolic syndrome.

Madam Subramanian, who has two daughters aged 34 and 27, said that her "muscles are not as strong as before" and she has been feeling aches and pains in her shoulders when she carries heavy things.

The good news is that metabolic syndrome is reversible. The key to doing so is weight loss and exercise, which work together to lower blood pressure and cholesterol and help improve insulin resistance.

Prof Chew said lifestyle and dietary changes are important to improve and manage the condition.

Madam Subramanian has been exercising regularly by doing zumba, low-impact aerobics and yoga and taking brisk walks in the park.

She also takes part in a physical exercise programme called Healthy Ageing Promotion Programme For You (Happy), which helps seniors improve their mental well-being, memory, functional ability and strength through various exercises.

This has helped her lose 4kg over two years. She has also managed to bring her blood pressure down to a normal level and is maintaining a healthy level of sugar intake by watching her diet.

"I believe I have to continue to keep myself active so that the aches don't set in," she said.

Retiree Ng Moy Loang, who has hypertension, low levels of good cholesterol and is overweight, also takes part in the Happy programme.

"It's important for seniors like us to be physically active so that we can avoid health problems. Regular exercise has helped to increase the levels of my good cholesterol and lower my high blood pressure," said the 69-year-old, who was a production planner in a printing firm.

The mother of three daughters aged 42, 39 and 26 also tries to keep to a healthy diet of less saturated fats and more fruit and vegetables.

Prof Chew said regular aerobic exercise of moderate intensity for at least 30 minutes every day has been shown to improve blood pressure, lipid profile, insulin sensitivity and reduce adverse cardiovascular outcomes associated with metabolic syndrome.

He also advised seniors with the condition to do resistance exercises at least twice a week to enhance muscle health.

Prof Merchant cautioned against consuming sugary food and drinks and processed food. Instead, she advised adopting a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meat, skinless poultry and non-fried fish, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products.

She also highlighted the importance of going for a medical check-up annually to screen for diabetes, and high blood pressure and cholesterol.

A study done by researchers from Tulane University in New Orleans found that people with metabolic syndrome are more likely to have worse Covid-19 outcomes.

The study explored the individual effects of obesity, hypertension and diabetes on Covid-19 severity and compared them with their combined effect in patients with metabolic syndrome.

The research, published in peer-reviewed medical journal Diabetes Care, showed that Covid-19 patients with metabolic syndrome were more than three times more likely to die than those without it. They were also nearly five times more likely to be admitted to an intensive care unit or require a ventilator.

Said Prof Merchant: "In the current climate, it is important for people to strengthen their immune response by exercising regularly, drinking enough water and maintaining a healthy diet of fruit and vegetables."

She also stressed the importance of practising social distancing and good personal hygiene habits.

EXERCISES TO HELP MANAGE METABOLIC SYNDROME

A sedentary lifestyle leads to a loss of muscle mass and an increase in fatty tissue. This may cause reduced muscle strength and reduced sensitivity to insulin in the body, which is associated with a higher risk of developing met
abolic syndrome.

Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise is essential to prevent and manage metabolic syndrome. Ms Lim Jiamin, a senior physiotherapist at Changi General Hospital, shares five exercises that seniors can do.

1. Stand an arm's length away from a wall or a sturdy support surface.

2. Raise the left leg to 90 degrees and punch forward with the right hand.

3. Continue with the opposite side. Repeat alternating sides.

Tip: If this is challenging, hold on to a sturdy surface instead of punching forward, and progress gradually.

1. Sit on a sturdy chair with an armrest and cross your arms across your chest.

2. Ensure that your knees are bent at 90 degrees.

3. Push off to stand up straight.

Tip: If this is challenging, you may push with your hands on the armrest of the chair and progress gradually.

1. Stand close to a wall or sturdy support surface.

2. Step sideways to the right with your right foot and punch to the ceiling with the left hand.

3. Continue with the opposite side. Repeat alternating sides.

Tip: If this is challenging, hold on to a sturdy surface instead of punching upwards, and progress gradually.

1. Stand one arm's length away from the wall and place your palms flat on the wall at shoulder height and width apart.

2. Keep your back straight.

3. Bend your elbows and lean your body forward while keeping your heels on the ground.

4. Slowly push yourself back until your arms are straight while keeping your elbows relaxed.

Tip: If this is challenging, stand closer to the wall and progress gradually.

This is one of the easiest forms of exercise. Aim to walk at least 10,000 steps daily. You may consider jogging or running, or climbing stairs to add variety and challenge. You may also try cycling or swimming, which are easier on the knees.

Ensure regular breathing throughout your exercise. You should stop exercising and consult a medical professional if you experience pain and discomfort. Consult a medical professional for advice if needed.

Link:
Metabolic syndrome, which increases the risk of heart disease, affects one in two seniors here - The Straits Times