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High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major risk factor for several chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. While medication is often necessary, experts say that lifestyle changes—especially dietary choices—can play a critical role in managing blood pressure levels. Factors such as stress, excessive salt intake, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption are all known to increase blood pressure. However, a healthy diet can help counteract these effects and support cardiovascular health. According to a report by Asianet News, cardiologist Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj has identified four specific foods that can help naturally lower blood pressure when included regularly in your diet. Avocado Avocados are rich in potassium and magnesium, two minerals essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure. “Potassium helps balance sodium levels in the body and reduces strain on blood vessels. Eating avocados in your daily diet, whether in salads, smoothies, or as a spread, can help lower blood pressure naturally,” says Dr. Bhojraj. Avoid coffee on empty stomach: Weight coach Banana Bananas are well-known for their high potassium content, which contributes to vascular health. “Bananas can help control blood pressure. Their high potassium content helps relax blood vessels and reduces stress on the cardiovascular system,” Dr. Bhojraj notes. Leafy Greens Leafy greens are a rich source of nitrates, which help improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure. “Leafy greens are rich in nitrates. They improve blood flow and ultimately lower blood pressure. So include a variety of leafy greens in your diet,” he advises. Garlic Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which has been shown to have cardiovascular benefits. “Garlic compounds like allicin help relax blood vessels and improve circulation, which can lower blood pressure over time,” says Dr. Bhojraj. Experts recommend combining these dietary choices with other healthy habits to effectively manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of serious health complications.

With recent layoffs across tech firms, media outlets, and even government agencies, concerns over job security are understandably on the rise. Losing a job can be overwhelming, with effects that ripple through your personal, emotional, and financial life. But experts say there are practical steps you can take to reduce stress and stay focused on your next move. “A layoff can feel deeply personal, but it’s not a reflection of your worth or contributions. In the U.S., our work is so closely tied to our identity,” said financial therapist Lindsay Bryan-Podvin. Here’s what experts suggest to help you manage both your finances and emotional wellbeing after losing a job: Pause to process your emotions Job loss often triggers a mix of emotions — from anger and sadness to shock or even relief. Experts say it’s important to acknowledge these feelings before jumping into your next steps. “Acknowledge and normalize that they're going to feel a range of emotions, whether it's anger or sadness,” Bryan-Podvin explained. Giving yourself time to sit with those emotions can help you approach your next steps with more clarity. Assess your financial position The first practical step is reviewing your finances, said career coach Marlo Lyons. Revisit your budget to identify areas where you can cut expenses, at least temporarily. If your employer offered a severance package, understand how long that money will support you. It’s also important to apply for unemployment benefits as soon as possible, Lyons advised. The payout may not match your previous salary, but it can help cover essential expenses during your job search. The U.S. Labor Department offers resources on how to apply. Your job doesn’t define you Being laid off can damage self-esteem, but Bryan-Podvin encourages people to list the qualities that contribute to their value beyond work — what she calls a “non-financial asset list.” “If I were doing a non-financial asset list on myself, I might say I’m a pretty good partner and a fun aunt,” she shared. How to stay safe during heat waves – and heat stroke warning signs to watch for This simple exercise, she said, reminds people that their self-worth extends far beyond their paychecks. Rework your spending habits According to Jesse Mecham, founder of the budgeting app YNAB, job loss requires a more intentional approach to every dollar you spend. “In a layoff, it becomes even more imperative that you treat every dollar with more attention than you have in the past,” Mecham said. His advice: Assign every dollar a specific job — whether it’s rent, groceries, or building savings. Bryan-Podvin added that adjusting your lifestyle should come with some self-compassion. Budgeting cuts can affect enjoyable activities, but remind yourself this is temporary. Be cautious with credit cards Relying too heavily on credit to get by during unemployment can backfire, experts warn. “If getting a new job takes them a little longer than they thought, that credit card has just become an anchor for them,” Mecham said. Instead of using credit to maintain your usual spending habits, focus on cutting costs wherever possible. Use community resources Look for community aid programs that can provide relief during tough times. Food banks, utility assistance, and temporary hardship programs can help bridge the gap, Bryan-Podvin noted. The government’s USA.Gov website includes a benefits finder to help identify programs you may qualify for. Indians mark International Yoga Day with mass sessions Job hunt with intention When you’re ready to job search, Lyons suggests taking a moment to reassess your professional goals. If you plan to stay in the same field, make sure your resume highlights what you can bring to future employers, not just what you’ve done in the past. “You want to show the employer what you can do, what unique value you can bring to that particular job that no other candidate can bring because of your previous experience,” Lyons explained. Networking is also key. Reach out to past colleagues via LinkedIn, attend industry events, or earn new certifications to enhance your profile, she added. Stick to a daily routine Creating structure in your day can ease anxiety and help you stay motivated, Bryan-Podvin said. She recommends setting aside specific times for meals, exercise, and job searching. Without a routine, unemployment can feel disorienting, especially if the layoff was unexpected, she added. Bryan-Podvin also emphasized the importance of avoiding isolation and leaning on friends, family, or support groups for encouragement during this period.

Olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil, is widely regarded as a healthy addition to the diet. Known for its high content of monounsaturated fats (MUFA), vitamins E and K, and powerful antioxidants, olive oil offers a range of health benefits, including protection against inflammation and oxidative stress. According to Swati Sandhan, the chief dietician at Jupiter Hospital in Pune, the health properties of olive oil make it beneficial in preventing various lifestyle diseases, including heart problems, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and certain types of cancer, as reported by asianet. The antioxidants found in olive oil play a key role in helping to protect the body from heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Just one teaspoon (about 5 ml) of olive oil contains approximately 40 calories and 4.6 grams of fat, the majority of which is heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, or MUFA. Avoid coffee on empty stomach: Weight coach Additionally, olive oil is rich in essential vitamins such as vitamin E and vitamin K. Olive oil also contains phenolic compounds that are known to help reduce the risk of heart disease. However, experts caution that overheating olive oil can destroy its antioxidants and potentially turn it harmful. Health experts recommend consuming up to two tablespoons of olive oil daily for maximum health benefits. For the best quality, choose brands labeled "cold-pressed" and "extra virgin," as these indicate that the oil has been produced using minimal processing, preserving its nutritional value. Incorporating olive oil into your daily diet could provide significant health advantages, but as with all oils, moderation is key.

Every spring for about two weeks, the strong, sweet aroma from my two lilac bushes by the front gate draws compliments from mail carriers, delivery folks, and anyone passing by. On breezy days, the scent drifts to the front door or even inside if the windows are open. Few flowers can match that level of fragrance. Some never had it, and others have lost it over time due to breeding efforts focused on size, appearance, resilience, and disease resistance — often at the cost of scent. Today, many carnations, violas, and even some modern roses lack the fragrance they once had. But if you're looking for flowers with a truly captivating scent, there are still great options that will delight your senses. How to pick the most fragrant flowers Not all lilacs smell the same. One of the most fragrant varieties is the dwarf Korean lilac, Syringa meyeri ‘Palabin’, which thrives in zones 3–7. Other strongly scented choices include Syringa x Josee (zones 2/3–9), Syringa vulgaris ‘Krasavitsa Moskvy’ (Beauty of Moscow, zones 3–7), and Syringa vulgaris ‘President Lincoln’ (zones 3–7). For a memorable, sweet scent and striking blooms, consider magnolias. The southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is known for its large, fragrant flowers and grows well in zones 7–9. The sweet bay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana), which is more cold-tolerant, suits zones 5–10. Another option is the Texas lilac, or chaste tree (Vitex), which blooms in midsummer with purple flowers and a pleasant aroma. It’s best for zones 6–9. Old-fashioned roses — the heirloom varieties untouched by modern breeding — may only bloom once per year, but their deep, classic rose fragrance makes them worth growing. Look for types in the tea, gallica, damask, and alba groups for the most powerful scent. Among vines, star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is a standout. This evergreen vine produces starry white flowers with a heady fragrance and is perennial in zones 7–10. In colder areas, grow it in a large container that you can move indoors for winter. Common jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is unrelated but equally fragrant. For early spring fragrance, plant Dutch or common hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis) in the fall near your entrance (zones 4–8). Sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) — unrelated to edible peas — are beloved annuals with an intensely sweet aroma. Other fragrant annuals include heliotrope (a tender perennial in zones 9–11) and flowering tobacco (Nicotiana), though scent strength can vary by variety. When choosing plants, follow your nose!   

Acclaimed Bangladeshi printmaker Tarek Amin’s second solo exhibition ‘Echoes of Existence’ is currently ongoing at the prestigious Spitalfields Studios Gallery in London, United Kingdom. The exhibition was inaugurated on June 20 and was joined by several guests of honour including Councillor Kamrul Hussain, Councillor for Whitechapel, Cabinet Member for Culture & Recreation, London Borough of Tower Hamlets; renowned academic and leading British Asian writer in the UK Dr Manzu Islam; prominent actor-singer Shampa Reza; former Director of Human Development Report Office and Poverty Division, UNDP.and economist-writer Dr Selim Jahan; poet and storyteller Shamim Azad, and David Lee Morgan, a performance poet and musician who has won the London, UK, and BBC Slam Poetry Championships. Mamitha on whether Jana Nayagan is Vijay’s last film as he enters politics Tarek Amin is a prominent printmaker from Bangladesh, whose works have been widely exhibited both nationally and internationally. With a focus on experimental print techniques and expressive visual storytelling, Tarek’s art explores themes of existence, resilience and the complexities of human life. His latest exhibition ‘Echoes of Existence’ presents a diverse collection of more than 60 artworks, showcasing the artist’s exploration across multiple mediums, including woodcut, sketch, acrylic and etching. Known for his evocative visual language and masterful craftsmanship, Tarek Amin’s works have earned him a significant place in the contemporary art scene of Bangladesh. Kuberaa: Dhanush’s Political Thriller Marches On With Its Elegant Box Office Journey This exhibition invites viewers to contemplate the transient nature of life and the layered stories embedded in Tarek’s works. His distinctive approach to printmaking, combined with a bold and experimental use of techniques, offers a profound reflection on human experiences, memory and identity. At the Spitalfields Studios Gallery, London - the exhibition will run until June 27. Arrangement of the exhibition was conducted by East London Academy of Art.  

The refrigerator, a crucial kitchen appliance, plays a vital role in preserving cooked and leftover food. However, not all refrigerator shelves serve the same purpose. According to a report by asianetnews, the temperature varies across the compartments of a fridge with the top shelves generally colder than the bottom. As a result, specific foods are best stored on particular shelves to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Some items should not be placed on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator, especially cooked foods. If these foods are currently stored there, it is advisable to move them immediately. Leftover FoodLeftover food should never be kept on the bottom shelf of the fridge. It is best stored on the top shelf, where the temperature is more stable and cooler. Boiled EggsBoiled eggs should not be stored with uncooked eggs, as this can lead to spoilage. "It is best to store eggs, whether shelled or not, in the top compartment of the refrigerator. This will help them stay fresh for up to a week," the report states. MAHA report on children’s health highlights harms of ultraprocessed foods Boiled MeatFully cooked meat is best stored on the top shelf of the fridge. While uncooked meat can go on the bottom shelf, it should always be kept separate from other food items. HerbsTo keep herbs fresh, place them in a glass of water and store them on the top shelf. It is also important to change the water daily. Ready-to-Eat FoodsPre-packaged ready-to-eat foods should not be stored on the bottom shelf. "It is best to store them at the top of the refrigerator," the report advises. Following these simple food storage tips can help extend freshness and reduce the risk of contamination.

For many people, summer is their favorite season, a time for cookouts, beach trips and other outdoor activities. However, summer also brings the risk of dangerously high temperatures and humidity. In the U.S., hundreds of people working or playing outside – even those who seem healthy – succumb to heat-related illnesses each year. Older adults and people in areas that historically haven’t needed air conditioning tend to see the highest rates of illnesses during heat waves, as Chicago saw in 1995 when at least 700 people died in a heat wave. Even in places where heat is recognized as a dangerous health threat, people can be caught off guard as the thermometer creeps higher, on average, each year. In some cases, dangerous heat can arise quickly. In 2021, a young family died of heat stroke on a California trail after setting out for a hike when temperatures were still in the 70s Fahrenheit (low to mid 20s Celsius). I study health risks in a warming climate as a professor of public health, and I’ve seen heat become a growing concern. Here are some of the key warning signs to watch for when temperatures rise – and ways to keep cool when the heat and humidity get too high. Signs of heat-related illness to watch for Heat-related illnesses occur across a spectrum, and mild heat stress can quickly progress to life-threatening heat stroke if a person is exposed to dangerous conditions for too long. Mild forms of heat-related illness include heat cramps and heat rash, both of which can be caused by extensive sweating during hot conditions. Cooling the body and drinking cool fluids can help. When heat-related illnesses progress into heat exhaustion, the situation is more serious. Heat exhaustion includes symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, feeling weak, thirst and getting a headache. Heat exhaustion is a signal that the body is losing its ability to maintain a stable core temperature. Immediate action such as moving to a cool, ideally air-conditioned space, drinking liquids, loosening clothes and applying wet cloths are some of the recommended steps that can help keep heat exhaustion from progressing to the most dangerous form of heat-related illness, heat stroke. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. At this point, the body can no longer maintain a stable core temperature. A body with heat stroke can reach 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher rapidly, and that heat can quickly damage the brain, heart and kidneys. Typically, someone suffering heat stroke has exhausted their reserves of sweat and salt to stay cool, so sweating eventually stops during heat stroke. Their cognitive ability fails, and they cannot remove themselves from danger. Heat stroke can cause seizures or put someone into a coma as their core temperature rises. If the condition is not treated immediately, and the core temperature continues to rise, heat stroke becomes fatal. Because heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, addressing heat-related illnesses before they progress is vital. How to tell when the heat is too high Heat risk isn’t just about temperature – humidity also increases the risk of heat-related illnesses because it affects how well sweating will cool the human body when it gets hot. Instead of just looking at temperature when planning outdoor activities, check the heat index, which accounts for heat illness risk associated with temperature and relative humidity. It doesn’t take very high temperatures or very high humidity for the heat index to enter dangerous territory. However, the heat index is still a conservative measure of the impact of heat on humans, particularly for outdoor workers and athletes at summer practices. This is because temperature measurements used in weather forecasting are taken in the shade and are not exposed to direct sunlight. If someone is outside and exposed to the direct sun, the actual heat index can be as much as 15 F higher than the heat index chart indicates. A more sophisticated measurement of heat effects on human health is what’s known as the wet-bulb globe temperature, which takes into account other variables, such as wind speed and cloud cover. Neither takes into account a person’s physical exertion, which also raises their body temperature, whether working at a construction site or playing soccer. Tips for staying safe in a heat wave How can you stay cool when heat waves set in? The answer depends in part on where you are, but the main points are the same: Avoid strenuous outdoor activities in high temperatures if possible. If you start to feel symptoms of heat-related illnesses, drink fluids that will hydrate you. Find shade, rest, and use cool, damp cloths to lower your body temperature. If you see signs of heat stroke in someone else, call for medical help. Be careful with fans. Fans can be useful if the temperature isn’t too high because they wick sweat away from the body and induce evaporative cooling. But at very high temperatures, they can accelerate heat buildup in the body and lead to dangerous conditions. If indoor temperatures reaches 95 degrees or higher, using fans can actually be dangerous and raise the risk of heat-related illnesses. Find a cooling center, library or community center where you can get inside and rest in an air-conditioned space in the hottest hours. In places such as Phoenix, where high temperatures are a regular hazard, cooling centers are typically opened in summer. Northern cities are also opening cooling centers as heat waves occur there more frequently than they did in the past. Urban areas with a lot of pavement and buildings – known as heat islands – can have temperatures well above the city’s average. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink plenty of fluids, and don’t forget about the importance of electrolytes. Heat-related dehydration can occur when people sweat excessively, losing water and necessary salts from the body. Some sports drinks or rehydration fluids restore electrolytes and hydration levels. Older adults and people with disabilities often face higher risks from heat waves, particularly if they can’t easily move to a cooler environment. Communities and neighbors can help protect vulnerable populations by providing cooling centers and bottled water and making regular wellness checks during high heat. Summer can be a season of fun. Just remember the risks, keep an eye on your friends and neighbors when temperatures rise, and plan ahead so you can beat the heat.   This is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.

The path to sustainable weight loss depends not just on what we eat, but also on our daily habits—particularly those followed right after waking up. According to a weight loss coach, adopting the right morning routine can significantly influence metabolism, energy levels, and fat-burning potential throughout the day, as reported by Hindustan Times. Here are five key actions to incorporate into your morning: 1. Start with hydration Drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up helps rehydrate your body after several hours of sleep. “Proper hydration helps kickstart metabolism and supports overall bodily functions, including fat burning,” the coach said. For added benefits, one can try apple cider vinegar (ACV) water or water infused with soaked and boiled cumin (jeera), fennel (saunf), or fenugreek (methi). 2. Move your body Engaging in some form of physical activity in the morning—be it a brisk walk, a jog, yoga, or a short workout—can help increase your metabolism. “Morning physical activity helps rev up your metabolism and increases calorie burn throughout the day,” the expert noted. 3. Prioritise a protein-rich breakfast A high-protein breakfast is essential to keep hunger at bay. “A breakfast high in protein keeps you full longer, curbs unnecessary cravings, and stabilises blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of overeating later in the day,” the coach said. Suggested options include eggs, Greek yogurt, tofu, or protein smoothies. Dhaka Flow's 2nd Annual Youth Wellness Fest wraps up in high spirits at EWU 4. Sip smartly on coffee or tea Though coffee offers focus and stress-relief benefits, it should not be consumed first thing in the morning. “Avoid having it first thing in the morning or on an empty stomach. Instead, pair it with your breakfast,” advised the coach. For those who prefer alternatives, green tea is recommended for its antioxidant benefits. 5. Skip the sugar Sugary breakfasts can derail fat loss goals. “Avoid sugary cereals, pastries, and sweetened beverages,” the expert warned. Instead, opt for whole, nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, oats, and whole grains to maintain steady energy levels and support weight loss efforts. By making these small but impactful changes, individuals can align their mornings with their fat-loss goals.

The human body needs protein. Proteins carry out countless functions inside cells and they are vital for the growth, repair and maintenance of muscles, bones and skin. And with food companies rolling out high-protein versions of a huge range of foods, including milkshakes and granola bars — and even pancakes and popcorn — you might be tempted to think you need to add more to your diet. But nutritionists say that if you are getting enough food, you are probably getting enough protein. “Adding protein to foods is very beneficial — for the profits of that food,” said Federica Amati, nutrition lead at Imperial College London and head nutritionist at the health science company ZOE. “It is not based on health, it is not backed by science.” The amount of protein you need depends on your age, weight and personal nutritional needs and it is especially important for children and older adults to make sure they eat protein-rich foods. Here’s what to know about how much protein you need and how to ensure you're getting it from the best sources. Protein is so critical that your body knows how to make it Protein is a macronutrient, or a basic kind of food like fat or carbohydrates that your body needs to function. There are thousands of proteins, assembled from smaller molecules called amino acids — most of which can be made by the body. “Because protein is so important, our body has adapted really well to making sure that it can reassemble and change the building blocks of these amino acids to make sure we have what we need, as long as we’re eating adequate amounts of food,” Amati said. MAHA report on children’s health highlights harms of ultraprocessed foods Still, the body can't make all the amino acids, so some must come from food. If you aren't starving, you are probably getting plenty of protein The World Health Organization recommends that healthy adults get about 0.4 grams of protein per pound of body weight (0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight). That's roughly 60 grams for men and 50 grams for women per day, based on body weights of 165 pounds (75 kilograms) for men and 143 pounds (65 kilograms) for women. In most rich countries, the average adult gets far more, Amati said. Protein deficiencies are mostly seen in malnourished people on subsistence diet in poorer countries, she said. Bridget Benelam, a nutritionist with the British Nutrition Foundation, said it was important to get protein from different foods, like dairy, fish, beans, nuts, vegetables and meat. She said studies suggest vegetarians and vegans have lower protein intake than meat and fish eaters, but that their average protein levels are still OK. Having some protein at every meal is also a likely a good idea. “It appears to be better for preserving muscle function if you have some protein throughout the day, rather than just having it all in one meal,” Benelam said. Protein can be found in a huge range of food Plant-based sources of protein include foods such as beans, lentils, peas, nuts, seeds, tofu, tempeh and meat substitutes. Fish, meat, poultry, eggs and dairy foods such as milk and yogurt are also good sources of protein. Amati said that proteins from animal-based sources may be easier for the body to break down compared to plant-based proteins, which tend to have more fiber. “If you eat a piece of beef, you’re getting protein and things like zinc and iron, but you’re also getting more saturated fat,” she said. In comparison, Amati said eating protein-rich foods like chickpeas or beans also provides the body with fiber, something that's lacking in most of our diets. You probably don't need to buy products with added protein “Unless you have a specific health issue that requires you to have more protein, most people in countries like the U.S. and the U.K. do not need more,” said Benelam of the British Nutrition Foundation. Amati, of Imperial College London, said people should scrutinize the ingredient list of protein-enriched products to make sure they aren’t loaded with sugar and fat. For people trying to build more muscle, she recommended a more direct solution: exercise. “If you’re worried about your body composition and muscle strength, you have to lift (heavier) weights and give your body a challenge,” Amati said. “Eating a protein bar is not going to help.”

From public parks to picturesque beaches, tens of thousands across India participated in mass yoga sessions on Saturday to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga. People in various Indian states gathered to perform stretches, breathing exercises, and traditional yoga poses. Military personnel also joined the celebrations—practicing yoga on naval ships in the Bay of Bengal and even in the extreme altitudes of the Siachen Glacier in the Himalayas. Countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia also planned similar observances. “I feel that yoga keeps us spiritually fit, mentally fit and helps us manage stress. That’s why I feel that people should take out at least 30 minutes every day for yoga to keep themselves fit,” said Rajiv Ranjan, who attended a yoga session in New Delhi. Yoga, one of India’s most recognizable cultural exports alongside Bollywood, has become a soft-power tool under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has promoted it globally as India steps into a more prominent role on the world stage. In 2014, Modi successfully lobbied the United Nations to declare June 21 as International Day of Yoga. This year’s theme was “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” Modi performed yoga in Visakhapatnam, a coastal city in southern India, where a large crowd had gathered. “Yoga leads us on a journey towards oneness with world,” he said as he joined others on colorfully arranged yoga mats for breathing drills and poses like backbends. “Let this Yoga Day mark the beginning of Yoga for humanity 2.0, where inner peace becomes global policy,” he added. Government officials, ministers, and military officers also shared images of themselves performing yoga poses on social media. In New Delhi’s Lodhi Gardens, a diverse crowd of participants followed instructions on stage as they practiced together. “Yoga for me is like balancing between inner world and outer world,” said Siddharth Maheshwari, a startup manager who took part in the event.