lifestyle
Adenovirus: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnose, Prevention, Cure
As the world recovers from the devastating blow of Covid 19, another virus is shaping up to be a looming threat. We are talking about Adenovirus of the family Adenoviridae. This virus has been on the rise in India, especially in West Bengal. This life-threatening virus causes prolonged flu-like illness in children. As the cases rise, now is a better time than ever to understand the symptoms, causes, preventions and treatments of Adenovirus.
What is Adenovirus?
Adenovirus belongs to the wider Adenoviridae family. The virus itself is relatively small compared to its other family branches. What’s surprising here is that Adenovirus has over 50 different types of mutations which affect the human body, especially children in different ways.
Adenoviruses are non-enveloped with double-stranded DNA that acts as their genetic material. The non-enveloped structure helps them to survive outside a host body for an extended period.
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The most common illness caused by Adenovirus includes respiratory infections, conjunctivitis, and gastrointestinal infections. Sometimes the effect of Adenovirus can get compounded. A person with a weakened immune system like an HIV AIDS patient or someone undergoing chemotherapy might fall severely ill due to Adenovirus.
How Does Adenovirus Transmit?
Adenoviruses are highly contagious and can use several different means of contamination. It spreads from one person to another through bodily fluids like urine, saliva, and blood. The infected person needs to be quarantined as soon as they show symptoms of prolonged flu combined with a weakened immune system. There are several ways through which Adenovirus can get into a healthy person.
- If a carrier of Adenovirus sneezes or coughs in front of a healthy person, they might get infected with respiratory droplets.
- If a healthy person comes in contact with any surface previously used or touched by the contaminated person.
- If there is any form of physical contact. Especially around the eyes, mouth, or nose.
- Sexual contact with an infected person can also cause Adenovirus to spread. It often leads to secondary genital infections.
- Using the same utensils as used by the infected person.
Read More: Workplace stress affecting women in Bangladesh needs attention
Symptoms of Adenovirus
The symptoms of Adenovirus differ from variant to variant. Depending on the variant a person contracts, they might notice different symptoms which are completely unrelated to one another. Sometimes the symptoms can even get compounded.
The general symptoms include.
- Cough, fever, runny nose, and chills. These are signs of bronchitis-related Adenovirus infection.
- A sore throat, stuffy nose, and swollen glands might be indicators of respiratory Adenovirus infection.
- Barking cough, trouble, and noise while breathing
- Otitis media
- Pneumonia
- Diarrhea, vomiting, headache, and stomach pain
- Meningitis
- Infection of the urinary tract
- Swelling around the eye
Read More: 11 Home Remedies for Cough in Kids
Among these symptoms, persistent fever and swollen eyes are serious signs of aggravated Adenovirus infection in children. Contact the pediatrician as soon as possible in such cases.
How to Diagnose Adenovirus?
Adenovirus infection can be diagnosed in several ways. All of these involve lab tests and some of which are pretty common due to the similar diagnostic procedure to Covid 19.
Viral culture
Viral culture is the traditional way of detecting the presence of viruses in body fluids. A sample of the patient's bodily fluid, such as blood, urine, or respiratory secretions, can be collected and checked whether there is the presence of Adenovirus in the body.
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Happiness Hormone: Ways to Boost Dopamine
Happiness is an emotion that all people strive to experience. It's a feeling that can consume people’s minds and bodies, making them laugh, cry, and even infect others with positive vibes. However, the science behind this sensation is far from simple. Complex chemical reactions occur within human bodies to induce those moments of joy and elation, and it's not just the balance of different hormones that affect mental health. The role of 'happy hormones' is equally vital in shaping the emotional state. In this article, we'll unveil the secrets of boosting dopamine secretion in your body, so you can unlock a world of happiness and contentment.
Dopamine: The Happiness Hormone
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in the regulation of various cognitive and physiological processes, including movement, motivation, reward, and pleasure. It is produced in several parts of the brain, including the substantia nigra, the ventral tegmental area, and the hypothalamus, and is involved in complex interactions with other neurotransmitters, including serotonin, norepinephrine, and acetylcholine.
Dopamine's role in human happiness is complex, as it is involved in both positive and negative emotional states. While dopamine is responsible for generating feelings of pleasure, satisfaction, and reward, it can also be involved in negative emotions such as fear and anxiety. This is because dopamine is also involved in the processing of aversive stimuli, such as pain and punishment, and is thought to play a role in the motivation to avoid these unpleasant experiences.
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Low levels of dopamine have been linked to mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and addiction. Conversely, high levels of dopamine have been associated with conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, which are characterized by mood swings and hyperactivity. However, the relationship between dopamine and these conditions is complex and still not fully understood.
There are several ways to increase dopamine levels naturally, including engaging in activities that are pleasurable and rewarding, such as listening to music, exercising, and spending time with loved ones. A healthy diet that includes foods high in tyrosine, an amino acid that is a precursor to dopamine, can also help increase dopamine levels.
Workplace stress affecting women in Bangladesh needs attention
Nuri (35) starts her day at 6 am throughout the week. After cleaning the home, making breakfast, and preparing tiffin for her husband and children, Nuri starts for office at 7:30 am. After returning from the office, she has to do chores like cooking, feeding the kids, serving food to family members, cleaning dishes, etc. She goes to sleep after 1 am. She never gets a single day for rest throughout the week. Inadequate sleep and the regular pressure of maintaining work-life balance are pushing her into depression.
Samira (28) commutes to the office every day by public transport. As her office does not provide any transport facility, it is a regular hassle to reach office on time, commuting through the overwhelming traffic jam of Dhaka city. While riding heavily congested public transport, Samira feels worried about physical molestation and harassment. She also feels insecure while returning home from work in the evening. These regular anxieties are hampering her performance at work.
Farin (25) works in a private company in Dhaka city. At her workplace, while protesting unwanted flirting and intimidation, she has been threatened by a senior male colleague. Though she got support from her female colleagues, the office management has more or less ignored the issue. As her company lacks an effective HR department, she didn’t get the scope to file a formal complaint. Furthermore, she has faced judgemental comments from senior colleagues on her “choice of clothing”. She has developed stress-related insomnia.
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When Afrin (40) joined a marketing agency with a female boss, where close to 80% of the workforce are also women, she expected a safe environment. However, her professional growth has induced jealousy among some colleagues. Though she works hard and often goes the extra mile to achieve the sales targets, her male colleagues label her success as a product of “flattery and favoritism”. She finds the environment demotivating.
Mahin (32) is a working mother with an 18-month-old son. As her office has no day-care facility for children, she finds no alternative but to leave her son with a relative or domestic worker during her office hours. Sometimes she feels stressed at work when her child is unwell. Though she looks after her son before and after work, her in-laws often talk about her “negligence” in maternal duties – directly and indirectly putting pressure on her to leave her job and stay home. The constant stress and disagreement at home are taking a toll on her mental health.
These scenarios are not uncommon for working women in Bangladesh. Women going through anxieties over maintaining a work-life imbalance should not ignore their mental and emotional well-being.
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Why do women feel more stressed at work?
Common sources of work-related stress for Bangladeshi women include:
Sexual harassment: Many institutions and organizations lack strict policies against sexual harassment. Therefore, some people take advantage and tend to harass their female colleagues.
Intimidation: Some men consider themselves superior to female colleagues at work. They often tend to intimidate and dominate their female colleagues at the work, even though no involvement is required.
Unsafe work environment: Sometimes male colleagues tend to make vulgar insinuations to women colleagues. Though it is not direct harassment, women feel abused and insecure.
Prejudice: At work, many professional women go through judgemental attitudes from colleagues and office management for their choice of clothing, ways of living, marital status. Single mothers, and unmarried women are the worst victims of such prejudices.
Read More: Protecting Your Child’s Mental Health: 10 Tips for Parents
Gender discrimination in pay: From entry-level to high positions, women working in different sectors of Bangladesh often experience discrimination in pay. It discourages many bright women from succeeding in their careers.
Professional jealousy: Many women professionals achieve rewards, increments, and promotions at work. However, in some cases, instead of getting encouragement from colleagues they have to go through taunts and negative comments. Such actions are demotivating.
Lack of strong female leadership: Attaining gender equality in the workplace is a challenge. However, there is a clear line between female empowerment and female leadership. In many workplaces, female professionals are leading the organizations, but the rights of all women in said organizations are not ensured.
Insecurity in transport: In Dhaka city, availability of public transport is quite inadequate compared to the population. Though the government has marked some seats for women in public buses, those are very scarce compared to the number of women commuters. Sometimes women experience pushing and physical molestation while on crowded public transport. Many working women cannot afford private transport in Bangladesh.
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Work-life balance: In Bangladesh, women mainly have to carry out the domestic responsibilities of cooking, cleaning, child-rearing, and other chores at home. Generally, men get to relax after work. On the other hand, women bear the pressure of reaching home on time and doing the chores. Men rarely help in cooking, cleaning, or looking after children. Thus, working women are always racing to maintain the balance between work and home.
Raise Low Blood Pressure: What to Eat, Drink, Avoid
Low blood pressure or hypotension refers to a reading of blood pressure under 90/60mmHg. It results in insufficient blood flow and therefore poor delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the heart, brain, kidneys, and other organs of your body. It does not cause symptoms most of the time, but you may need treatment if it occurs frequently. You can increase your low blood pressure by taking and avoiding some foods and drinks. We are here with a list of the best and worst foods and drinks for low blood pressure patients.
Symptoms of low blood pressure
Some people with low blood pressure have no symptoms. However, the general symptoms of low pressure include:
-dizziness or lightheadedness
-nausea
-fainting
-dehydration and unusual thirst
-blurred vision
-fatigue
-rapid, shallow breathing
-cold, clammy, and pale skin
-depression
-lack of concentration.
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Causes of low blood pressure
Low blood pressure can be short-term or long-term and it can be a result of the following causes:
-aging
-prolonged bed rest
-certain medications
-side-effects of high blood pressure medications
-diabetes
-pregnancy
-heart problems
-endocrine problems
-severe infection
-severe allergic reaction
-neurally mediated hypotension
-nutritional deficiencies
-diet
-stress
-vigorous exercise.
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Best food and drinks for low blood pressure diet
Raisins
Raisins are great for reducing hypertension and successfully managing low blood pressure also. Just soak about 10-12 pieces of raisins in water the whole night and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach. Besides, you can take raisin-soaked water.
Spirulina: Health benefits, doses, uses, and side effects
Spirulina is the biomass of cyanobacteria or blue-green algae. It has three species namely Arthrospira platensis, A. fusiformis, and A. maxima. Arthrospira is cultivated around the world and is used as a dietary supplement or whole food. It is used as a food source in some parts of Mexico and Africa. Both humans and animals can consume Spirulina. Let’s find out the health benefits and side effects of Spirulina.
10 amazing health benefits of spirulina
Rich in many nutrients
Spirulina grows in fresh water and salty water also. It is packed with protein, numerous types of vitamins and minerals, healthy polyunsaturated fats, antioxidants, C-phycocyanin, and beta-carotene.
From 1 tablespoon or 7 g of dried spirulina powder, you will get protein: 4 g, thiamin: 14% of the Daily Value, riboflavin: 20% of the DV, niacin: 6% of the DV, copper: 47% of the DV, iron: 11% of the DV. It also has suitable amounts of magnesium, potassium, and manganese. Moreover, Spirulina is rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.
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If you can experience oxidative damage, it can harm your cells and can drive chronic inflammation, which ultimately contributes to cancer and other diseases.
Spirulina is an amazing source of antioxidants. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Spirulina can protect against oxidative damage.
The main active component of spirulina is called phycocyanin, which is an antioxidant. It gives spirulina its unique blue-green color. Phycocyanin can fight free radicals and block the production of molecules that promote inflammation, providing impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Fights allergies
Nowadays, many people are suffering from health issues like irritations of allergies that mostly happen due to dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and many more. The most common symptoms of allergies are a stuffy nose, watery eyes, or itchy throat.
Some studies on animals have shown that spirulina helps to stop the release of histamine, which is mainly responsible for symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Studies on Human also show that spirulina consumption improved symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, nasal itching, and nasal discharge when compared to the placebo group.
Detoxification arsenic
The problem of chronic arsenic toxicity is present worldwide, especially in India, Bangladesh, and Taiwan, where citizens are consuming a high level of arsenic in their drinking water.
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The effects of arsenic toxicity can be ruinous including abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. When the affected patients took a spirulina extract that is incorporated with zinc, they experienced a 47% decrease in arsenic in their bodies.
Besides, the chlorophyll available in spirulina helps remove toxins from the blood and strengthens the immune system also.
Lowers blood pressure
Phycocyanin is a pigment that is found in the spirulina and can lower blood pressure. According to Japanese researchers, consuming blue-green algae changes endothelial dysfunction in metabolic syndrome and helps lower blood pressure.
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Lower cholesterol
Many risk factors are related to an increased risk of heart disease which causes death. Spirulina can lower total cholesterol, and LDL (bad) cholesterol, and help increase HDL (good cholesterol). A study shows that spirulina can notably improve these markers in people with metabolic syndrome and related disorders.
Anti-cancer properties
Although it needs more studies, some proof says that spirulina has anti-cancer properties and it can reduce cancer occurrence and tumor size. Spirulina’s effects on oral cancer have been extremely well studied.
Fights anemia
Anemia is a condition that happens due to the reduction in hemoglobin or red blood cells in your blood. The main causes of anemia include nutrient deficiencies, genetic disorders, and chronic inflammation.
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Especially, in older adults, anemia may lead to prolonged feelings of weakness and fatigue. A study shows that spirulina supplements can increase the hemoglobin content of red blood cells and improve immune function.
11 Home Remedies for Cough in Kids
When a child is coughing constantly, it is a thing of concern for the parents. Usually, a child's cough is nothing to worry about as it can be caused by a common cold that happens by changes in seasons and weather. However, try to avoid a cough suppressant for your kids without consulting a doctor, as it is not safe for them. Instead, you can try some safe, natural home remedies for cough for children. These tips can help a sick child feel relaxed.
11 Ways to Treat Your Kid’s Cough Naturally
Honey
According to research honey is better than medicine for relieving coughs. Honey also helps a sick kid sleep better. However, honey is safe and better for children aged 1 and older. Kids also love to take honey as it tastes good. Dark honey like buckwheat works best because it's higher in antioxidants.
But if it becomes difficult to find buckwheat honey, you can take any natural honey. Natural honey is also great for its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can go a long way in soothing a sore throat.
Remember, you need to give ½ teaspoon to children who are ages 1 to 5 years and 1 teaspoon to kids ages 6 to 11. If your child won't love to take honey directly, you can add it to warm water, herbal tea, or warm milk. But make sure you avoid this remedy for kids under 1.
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Chicken Noodle Soup
It is an old folk remedy: Studies have shown that chicken soup has anti-inflammatory elements and its warm temperature can soothe sore throats. Besides, it acts as a vaporizer and helps to release mucus in the nasal passages which ultimately can relieve a stuffy nose.
You will get the magic in the soup that comes from the perfect balance of electrolytes, which help keep your kids hydrated. Moreover, the protein and carbohydrates available in chicken soup are a perfect meal for anyone who feels icky. Your lovely kids can feel like a warm hug with a bowl of chicken soup.
Stay Hydrated
Make sure the kid drinks enough water to help prevent dehydration.
Warm liquids is an excellent cough remedy for toddler because they thin out mucus and makes it easier to cough up. Besides, liquids pacify a raw throat and keep your little one hydrated and happy.
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Researchers at the Common Cold Center at Cardiff University have shown that hot drinks are the most effective at soothing cold and flu symptoms.
Hot drinks may relieve symptoms including runny nose, cough, sneezing, sore throat, chills, and fatigue. On the contrary, a warm or room temperature drink had fewer benefits they can relieve a runny nose, coughing, and a sore throat temporarily.
However, cold drinks are also helpful because they can numb a sore throat while helping to hydrate at the same time. But avoid drinking ice-cold juice as they are highly acidic the acidity increase discomfort in the throat.
Cool-mist humidifier
You can keep a cool-mist humidifier in your kid’s room to help unfasten chest and nasal congestion. It is a great remedy for nighttime coughing. USA’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says a cool air humidifier is used unitedly with other treatments like rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and consuming honey.
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When other properties won't cure the cause, a humidifier will surely help your little one feel a little better, especially at night when coughing may be worse.
Salt water gargle
One of the most natural and simplest kid’s cough remedies is salt water gargle. Just mix a half teaspoon of salt with eight ounces of water, then give your child to gargle the solution. It eases the throat irritation that often comes with coughing. But this should only be given to older kids.
Salt water helps the tissue in the upper respiratory tract tend to become inflamed from excess mucus and fluids, causing coughing and soreness.
14 Top Anti-aging Foods to Look Younger
According to biological science, the aging process occurs as an impact of the aggregation of a huge variety of molecular and cellular damage over time. It leads to a subtle decrease in physical and mental capacity. Moreover, the process of aging grows the risk of disease and ultimately leads to death. The process of aging can't be stopped but delayed. For instance, certain foods have natural anti-aging nutrients. Therefore, foods can greatly affect the fitness, appearance, quality of life, and risk of disease in human beings. Check here 14 anti-aging foods that can help you stay young.
What are the benefits of an anti-aging diet?
Anti-aging foods of course have a wide range of health benefits. Nutritious foods are full of vitamins, minerals, Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, protein, and fiber that a human body needs to perform basic functions. Without getting enough of them, you may notice the signs of aging. A few of the benefits you can expect when you eat anti-aging foods are as follow:
-Healthy hair;
-Stronger nails;
-Slim figure;
-Reduced risk of diabetes and heart disease;
-Better circulation;
-Lower blood pressure;
-Hydrated, glowing skin.
Read More: Top Traditional Bangladeshi Foods You Must Try
14 Most Effective Anti-aging Foods for Young Skin
Extra virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil is amazing and the healthiest oil on earth. It has healthy fats and antioxidants that help you to reduce inflammation and oxidative damage caused by an imbalance of free radicals in the body.
A diet that is rich in olive oil can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and certain types of cancer, and the monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) available in olive oil ( about 73%) may help reduce skin aging.
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Bonnell Vs Pocket Spring Mattress: Which is the Best for Good Sleep?
A good night's sleep is essential for a healthy and productive life, and the right mattress can play a crucial role in achieving that. A comfortable and supportive mattress can help alleviate back pain, promote good posture, and improve the quality of your sleep. With so many types of mattresses available, it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you. Let's discuss the differences between Bonell and Pocket Spring mattresses and pick the best mattress for better sleep.
Key features of Bonnell Spring Mattress
Hourglass-shaped Springs
Bonnell spring mattresses consist of a series of hourglass-shaped springs that are connected to one another by a wire frame. The design of the springs allows them to compress and expand as weight is applied to the mattress. The interconnected springs provide a stable and supportive foundation that can distribute weight evenly across the mattress, creating a comfortable sleeping surface.
Balanced Weight Distribution
The interconnected design of the Bonnell springs allows them to work together to distribute weight evenly across the mattress. As pressure is applied to one area of the mattress, the springs compress, and the weight is transferred to the surrounding springs. This creates a stable and supportive sleeping surface that can prevent pressure points from forming on the body.
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Firm Sleep Surface
Bonnell spring mattresses are known for providing a firmer sleep surface than other mattresses. The interconnected design of the springs creates a stable foundation that resists sinking and provides support to the body. This can be beneficial for those who prefer a firmer sleep surface, as it can help maintain proper spinal alignment and prevent back pain.
Affordable Mattresses
Bonnell spring mattresses are generally more affordable than other types, such as memory foam or latex mattresses. The traditional design of the Bonnell springs is simpler and requires fewer materials, which can keep the cost of the mattress down. This makes Bonnell spring mattresses a popular choice for those who are on a budget.
Durable
Bonnell spring mattresses are known for their durability and longevity. The interconnected design of the springs provides a stable and supportive foundation that can withstand regular use over a long period of time. In addition, these mattresses typically have a thicker gauge wire than other types of mattresses, which makes them less prone to sagging or losing their shape over time.
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Kid’s zone of Ekushey Book Fair abuzz with little book lovers
With only four days left of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair in Dhaka, children flocked to the fair, especially at the Kid’s corner on Friday.
Parents thronged Bangla Academy premises with their kids like every weekly holidays during ‘Shishu Prahar’-special hours designated for the children from 11 am to 1 pm.
Popular puppet show Sisimpur’s characters including Haloom, Ikri, Tuktuki and Shiku welcomed the children to stage that was decorated colourfully.
Top Traditional Bangladeshi Foods You Must Try
Bangladeshi cuisines are defined by the country’s tropical geography and diverse array of influences, from Persian to Indian. Especially, the traditional foods of Bangladesh whizz with the richness of spices, versatile flavors, aromatic qualities, and mesmerizing tastes. Here are some of the best traditional Bangladeshi foods that you shouldn't miss.
Most Popular Breakfast Dishes to Try in Bangladesh
Panta Bhaat (Water Rice)
This dish is popular in Bangladesh as well as Eastern India. Panta Bhaat or water rice is prepared from fermented rice and people eat it with mustard oil, onions, chilies, or an aloo bharta. Research has shown that panta bhaat is in micronutrients and so it keeps the body cool during the hot and humid summer months.
In rural regions of Bangladesh, the farmers eat Panta Vaat before going to work. This food gives them the energy to work throughout the day even if on hot weather days. This food is poplar in urban areas too.
The portion of ingredients depends on the individual's precise choice. The recipe can vary by region also.
Read More: Panta Bhat: The Amazing Health Benefits of Water Rice
Luchi and Alur Dom
Generally made for puja, this dish is a favorite breakfast for a lot of Bengalis. Luchi is one type of deep-fried puri that is prepared just using flour, a pinch of salt, and oil. Alur dom is a spicy seasoning. It is made with potatoes and spices including chili powder, turmeric, and garam masala. Serve with hot luchi and every Bengalis love to enjoy this dish, especially the Hindu community.
Moglai Porota
Moglai porota or paratha is traditionally famous. It is filled with mutton or chicken and is a wrap made with seasoning, flour, and beaten eggs. It is a perfect breakfast dish that can keep you full till your next meal.
Nehari
The word “Nihar” comes from the Arabic word, “Nahar” meaning “morning”. The Nawabs in the Mughal Empire took this dish as a breakfast item after their morning prayers. Nihari now becomes popular in almost all Asian countries, especially in Bangladesh. The main ingredients are the paya of cow, goat, and lamb. This dish is served with paratha or roti.
Read More: Easy Chicken, Beef and Mutton Nihari Recipes Everyone Will Love.