Five more deaths were reported from dengue in 24 hours till Wednesday morning, raising the number of fatalities from the mosquito-borne disease in Bangladesh to 427 this year. In the recent fatalities, one was reported in the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), one in the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), one in Barishal Division (outside of the city corporation) and two in the Khulna Division (outside the city corporation). During the period, 1,034 more patients were hospitalised with viral fever, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Of them, 187 dengue patients were admitted in hospital under Dhaka North City Corporation while 160 were hospitalized in Dhaka South City Corporation. A total of 83,154 dengue cases have been reported since January 1, 2024. Last year, 1,705 people lost their lives due to dengue, making it the deadliest year on record. The DGHS recorded 321,179 dengue cases and 3, 18,749 recoveries last year.  

BRAC, in collaboration with the BRAC Institiute of Educational Development (BIED) and 'Neeramoy', a digital healthcare platform, has introduced a mental health hotline called 'Moner Jotno'. This initiative provides free, confidential tele-counselling for individuals -- particularly young people and adolescents -- experiencing anxiety, panic, or emotional distress. The hotline offers immediate support, creating a safe and welcoming space for callers to share their emotions and experiences, so they no longer have to suffer in silence. The launch comes at a critical time, as mental health challenges in Bangladesh are on the rise, particularly among young people. A recent study revealed that 73.5 per cent of school-going adolescents in Bangladesh experience symptoms of stress to varying degrees. According to The Lancet Psychiatry, there is also a severe shortage of mental health professionals in Bangladesh, with fewer than one psychologist available per million people. The 'Moner Jotno' hotline is available every day from 12 pm to 2 am, including holidays, and can be accessed by calling 09643262626 or through the Neeramoy Patient app on both Android and iOS platforms. Over 70 trained psychologists and psychosocial counsellors from BRAC are providing the service, ensuring that callers receive professional, empathetic support, said a press release. Each session lasts around 20 minutes, with the option of a 10-minute extension if the caller's distress is severe. The service offers a single session per call, focusing on immediate emotional relief without follow-up obligations, while maintaining strict confidentiality throughout.

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked the 17th on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 121 at 9:20am this morning (November 12, 2024). Today’s air was classified as 'unhealthy for sensitive groups’, according to the AQI index. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. Pakistan’s Lahore, India’s Delhi and Vietnam’s Hanoi occupied the first, second and third spots in the list, with AQI scores of 781, 304 and 194 respectively. Read more: Dhaka’s ‘unhealthy’ air quality persists The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon. As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked the 35th on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 97 at 9am this morning (November 11, 2024). Today’s air was classified as 'moderate’, according to the AQI index. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. Pakistan’s Lahore, India’s Delhi and Vietnam’s Hanoi occupied the first, second and third spots in the list, with AQI scores of 560, 358 and 206 respectively. The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. Read: Dhaka’s ‘unhealthy’ air quality persists The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon. As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

Winter's cozy appeal often tempts us to indulge in comfort foods and stay indoors, making it harder to keep the extra kgs off. With colder weather and lower motivation to stay active, cravings for rich, hearty meals increase. However, winter doesn’t have to mean weight gain—by following simple, effective strategies, you can maintain or even improve your fitness throughout the season. Why is it Difficult to Lose Weight in Winter? Unlike summer, people love to stay indoors during the colder months. Winter lifestyle often leads to the ignoring of regular exercise and diet. Let’s consider the key reasons why it is hard to maintain or lose weight during the winter season. Lower Activity Levels Shorter days and colder weather often reduce outdoor activities. For many people, winter means fewer walks, less jogging, and a reduction in sports or activities that require leaving the warmth of home. This drop in activity naturally affects calorie expenditure, leading to a slower metabolism and, consequently, potential weight gain. Read more: 10 Delicious Quinoa Recipes for Weight Loss Comfort Food Cravings During the colder months, we crave warm, filling foods high in calories, fats, and carbs. These cravings are not just psychological—your body uses more energy to keep you warm, which can cause you to crave denser, more energy-rich foods. Reduced Sunlight Exposure Winter’s reduced sunlight can lower vitamin D levels, affecting mood and leading to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) for some. SAD often causes fatigue, sadness, and carb cravings, reducing motivation to exercise and eat well. Low energy and mood make it harder to maintain fitness and balanced nutrition during the season.  Changes in Metabolism Colder weather triggers the body to maintain its internal temperature, which can slightly increase the human body’s metabolic rate. However, this increase is inadequate to offset higher calorie intake from comfort foods. Instead, our bodies may go into a mild "hibernation mode," where metabolism slows as activity decreases, making weight loss a bit more challenging. Read more: Delicious Oatmeal Recipes for Weight Loss Tips to Avoid Winter Weight Gain Though people want to live a more relaxed lifestyle during the colder months, following some strategies can prevent gaining extra pounds. Stay Active Indoors When outdoor exercise feels less appealing, find ways to keep moving indoors. There are countless ways to stay active at home, from following online workout videos to using home fitness equipment. You can try online classes in yoga, dance, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT).  Create a home gym setup with resistance bands, dumbbells, or kettlebells. You can also incorporate bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups that require minimal space. Staying active at home burns calories and keeps your mood and energy up during those winter days. Read more: 10 Best Teas for Weight Loss Set Winter Fitness Goals Sometimes, all it takes is a goal to keep you focused. Setting specific, achievable goals like improving strength, running a certain distance, or completing a workout challenge can provide motivation. Winter is a perfect time to work on endurance, flexibility, or strength, as these can be developed indoors with minimal equipment. Embrace Seasonal Vegetables and Light Comfort Foods Winter foods do not have to be heavy to be comforting. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, along with leafy greens like cabbage and spinach, are winter staples that are both nutritious and satisfying. Try making lighter versions of classic comfort foods, like soups and stews with plenty of veggies, lean proteins, and low-sodium broths. Practice Mindful Eating Mindful eating is all about slowing down and truly savouring each bite, which can help reduce overeating. In winter, many people tend to eat more out of boredom or to seek comfort. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to hunger cues and avoid eating in front of screens. Try to focus on each meal, chew thoroughly, and consider portion sizes. Read more: Healthy Weight Gain Strategies: Add pounds fast safely, naturally Choose Snacks Wisely Smart snacking can prevent winter weight gain by curbing cravings and stabilizing energy. Choose high-protein, high-fibre options like yoghurt with apple slices with peanut butter. These snacks keep you full and help avoid unhealthy choices later. Stick to small portions and avoid sugary snacks that lead to quick energy spikes and crashes. Control Your Stress Managing stress, especially during the winter season, can help prevent weight gain. High stress increases cortisol, a hormone that can lead to weight gain and cravings for junk food. To keep stress levels low, try techniques like exercise, meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. These methods help control cortisol and reduce the likelihood of overeating unhealthy foods. Boost Your Vitamin D Levels Lower sunlight exposure in winter can lead to a drop in vitamin D, which plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system and mood. You can boost vitamin D by spending a few minutes outside when the sun is out, even on colder days. Try including vitamin D-rich foods like fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy. Consider discussing supplements with a healthcare provider. Read more: Postpartum Weight Loss: How to lose baby weight fast after pregnancy Stay Hydrated It is common to drink less water in winter because the cold weather may make you less thirsty. However, hydration is just as essential in winter as in summer. Water helps keep metabolism running efficiently and prevents overeating, as thirst is sometimes mistaken for hunger. You should carry a water bottle around, and drink herbal teas for warmth and hydration without added calories. Prioritize Sleep Adequate sleep is essential for weight management because it regulates hormones that control hunger and appetite. Short winter days may disrupt sleep cycles, but try to maintain a regular sleep schedule. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to keep energy levels balanced and reduce cravings for sugary or high-carb foods. Make Exercise a Social Activity Staying active can be more fun with friends or family. Look for local winter sports or try virtual workout challenges with friends. Many gyms also offer winter workout programs or challenges that can help you stay consistent. Making fitness a social commitment adds accountability, increasing the likelihood of sticking to your routine. Read more: 5 Healthy Winter Soup Recipes for Weight Loss Plan Your Meals Ahead Meal planning can help you avoid impulsive food choices that are high in calories. Prepare meals for the week, focusing on balanced nutrition and portion sizes. If you have healthy, ready-made meals at hand, you are less likely to reach for high-calorie options. Keep Meals Balanced with Protein and Fiber Winter meals often have plenty of carbs but lack protein and fiber, both essential for feeling full and managing weight. Protein boosts metabolism and reduces appetite, so aim for 25–30 grams per meal from sources like meat, poultry, fish, beans, and quinoa. Fiber also supports fullness and prevents overeating. Include fiber-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and nuts to help maintain balance and control calorie intake during festive meals. Do not Skip Workouts It can be tempting to skip workouts when it is dark and cold outside, but consistency is key. Even short workouts, such as a 20-minute HIIT session, can be effective. Maintaining a regular exercise routine will keep your metabolism running and help offset any extra calories from winter foods. Read more: How to Lose Weight without a Strict Diet or Heavy Exercise Final Words Winter weight gain is avoidable with proactive habits. By recognizing winter’s triggers and making mindful choices, you can stay active, eat well, maintain balance, and lose extra pounds. Relish seasonal treats without derailing your health goals. With the right approach, you can enjoy the cold season feeling energized and motivated. Embrace winter, stay mindful, and prioritize your health throughout the season. Read more: How Does Fat Leave the Body When We Lose Weight?

Play is not just a fun pastime for kids; it is essential for their overall development. Through play, children explore the world around them, experiment with ideas, and build crucial skills that will set them up for success in life. This comprehensive guide delves into the multifaceted benefits of play for a child's cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development. Cognitive Development Enhancing Creativity Play stimulates a child's imagination, allowing them to explore new ideas and scenarios. Activities like building with blocks or creating stories foster creativity by encouraging problem-solving and critical thinking. In this way, young children develop social skills, learn to express emotions, and build confidence. These experiences provide a safe space for experimenting and learning, laying the foundation for innovative thinking and cognitive growth throughout their lives. Problem-Solving Skills Through play, kids encounter challenges that require problem-solving. Engaging with puzzles, board games, and make-believe scenarios helps develop their critical thinking skills and ability to find solutions. Read more: How to Teach Students to Accept and Overcome Academic Failures These activities also teach patience, persistence, and adaptability. Additionally, play enhances memory and cognitive flexibility, allowing children to approach problems from various angles. This hands-on learning prepares them for real-life situations, fostering resilience and a proactive mindset. Language Development Engaging in play, especially with peers, encourages young children to communicate effectively. They learn new words, sentence structures, and conversational skills, enhancing their language abilities. Play also teaches kids to listen, share ideas, and negotiate, which are crucial for social interaction. Through storytelling, role-playing, and collaborative games, a child can expand their vocabulary and understanding of language nuances, building a strong foundation for future communication and literacy skills. Boosting Memory and Attention Span Games that require concentration and recall, such as memory cards, help improve a child's memory and attention span. These activities challenge young children to remember patterns, sequences, or instructions, thereby enhancing their cognitive abilities. Read more: Sibling Bullying and Abuse: Reasons, Types, Signs and Prevention Engaging in such games, kids learn to focus for extended periods, sharpen their observation skills, and develop strategies for retention. This mental exercise supports academic learning and promotes effective learning habits and problem-solving skills.

Xinji has a reputation for producing smart wearable products. Xinji’s latest smartwatch Cobee CA1 is now available in Bangladesh. The smartwatch has a unique look and features. It can be a great tool to monitor your health. Let's look at its key features, pros, cons, and price. Key Specs of Xinji Cobee CA1 Design Xinji Cobee CA1 presents a 3D curved surface to add a sense of uniqueness to the overall design. The built-in watch faces are designed to adjust with the 3D curved surface. Together they make the watch surface look elegant. The 47 mm 41 mm 11.6mm body is made with durable titanium aluminum alloy. However, the back is made of durable plastic. The entire phone weighs only 34.7g.  On the right side of the watch, there is a crown wheel button. It can work as a button but doesn’t have the functionality to work as a wheel. A speaker and a microphone are placed on both sides of the back of the watch. The smartwatch comes in two color variants- Black and Green. Read more: Xiaomi Redmi Turbo 3 Review: A New Contender in Performance-oriented Smartphones Display The Xinji Cobee CA1 has a 1.96-inch Super Retina AMOLED display with a 410 by 502 resolution. It shows high-quality graphics. The touch response and refresh rate feel right. Users can scroll through and use the UI without getting any lags. The brightness level is sufficient to comprehend everything clearly on the watch, even in broad daylight. Features Sports modes: Xinji claims to install more than 100 sports modes to help you train and prepare yourself for the big win. Comfort Strap: The Cobee CA1’s liquid silicon strap is meant to provide users with the expected comfort. The design of the belt complements the structure of the frame.  Read more: Motorola Moto G34 Review: A Budget-friendly 5G Phone with Powerful Processor Health Monitoring: The Cobee CA1 watch has high-performance body recognition sensors. These sensors enable comprehensive health monitoring, empowering you to track your well-being and fitness progress effectively. IP68 Waterproof Rating: The Cobee CA1 smartwatch has an IP68 waterproof rating, ensuring protection during swimming or rain. It's suitable for various situations and weather conditions. However, it's not recommended for diving, hot water showers, or saunas.

To maintain the health of skin and hair, it is essential to take regular care in every season. The heat waves during summer months cause sweating and dehydration. Understanding how to protect and nourish the skin and hair can help you to minimise damages caused by sun heat. This article will explore effective tips to keep your skin and hair healthy, glowing, and protected during the warmer months. Skincare Tips for Summer  . Hydration is Key Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is important to stay hydrated from within. Proper hydration helps maintain skin elasticity and suppleness, preventing it from becoming dry and flaky under the summer sun. It also keeps you safe from heat stroke caused by the scorching summer heat. Cleansing and Exfoliating You should cleanse your skin twice daily to remove sweat, dirt, and sunscreen buildup. It is also necessary to exfoliate regularly to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells. It can promote a smoother and more radiant complexion. Read more: Collagen Supplements: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage Lightweight and Non-Comedogenic Products It is highly recommended to opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturisers, serums, and sunscreens that won't clog pores or feel heavy on your skin. Try to look for products labelled "non-comedogenic" to prevent breakouts. Introduce Antioxidants It would be beneficial to incorporate antioxidant-rich skincare products into your routine to combat free radical damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants. You should look for ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract. Sun Protection It is crucial to apply sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Reapplying sunscreen every two hours is equally important, especially if you are swimming or sweating. Read more: How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Customised Skincare  Not every person has same type skin. Customising skincare routine acording to the specific type and condition of skin can help to avoid rashes and other skin related issues. It is vital to tailor your skincare routine to suit your skin type. If you have oily skin use oil-free water-based products, hydrating products for dry skin, and use gentle, non-irritating products for sensitive skin.  Use Sun Protection Clothes and Acessories Experts suggest to wear lightweight and breathable clothing during extreme hot weather. It would be wise to choose light-cloured and cotton fabric made clothes to stay safe from heat exhaustion. Besides choosing summer-freindly outfits, you need to use protective acessories like umbrellas, hats, and sunglasses for added protection.  Read more: Korean Skincare Routine: 10 Skincare Hacks Healthy Eating It is very important to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids to nourish your skin from the inside out. You should limit your sugary and processed foods intake, which can contribute to inflammation and breakouts.

In pursuing a healthier lifestyle, the choice between Ramadan fasting and traditional dieting holds significance. Both practices impact health and eating habits, but which one emerges as the more beneficial option? Let's embark on a journey exploring the nuances of these two approaches and their impact on well-being. Benefits of Month-long Fasting during Ramadan . Holistic Detoxification Ramadan fasting goes beyond the typical notion of dieting for weight loss. It involves a unique detoxification process where the body undergoes a thorough internal cleansing. The fasting period allows organs to rest and rejuvenate which promotes optimal functioning and contributes to overall health. Mindful Eating and Discipline Unlike conventional dieting, which solely focuses on restricting calories, Ramadan fasting instils a sense of discipline and mindfulness in eating habits. The structured nature of fasting encourages individuals to be more aware of what and how much they consume. Thus, Ramadan fosters a healthier relationship with food in the long run. Read more: Healthy Sehri Meal Recipes for Ramadan Fasting Spiritual and Emotional Well-being Ramadan fasting is more than just a physical practice; it is deeply rooted in spirituality. The act of fasting is not only an exercise for the body but also for the mind and soul. This spiritual dimension contributes to emotional well-being and enhances a sense of inner peace, gratitude, and resilience. Community Support and Bonding One of the distinctive aspects of Ramadan fasting is its communal nature. Individuals come together to fast and create a supportive environment beyond personal discipline. This sense of community support and bonding provides emotional strength and motivation, elements often lacking in individualistic dieting journeys. Sustainable Lifestyle Changes Month-long fasting during the holy Ramadan encourages a holistic approach to health that extends beyond the month of fasting. The discipline and mindful eating habits cultivated during Ramadan can translate into sustainable lifestyle changes. This helps individuals maintain a balanced and health-conscious approach to nutrition throughout the year. Read more: Ramadan Fasting with Diabetes: Best foods for Sehri and Iftar Balanced Nutritional Intake While dieting may sometimes lead to nutrient imbalances or deficiencies, Ramadan fasting emphasises a balanced nutritional intake. The pre-dawn and post-sunset meals, suhoor and iftar, are carefully planned to include a variety of food groups which ensures that the body receives essential nutrients. Improved Digestion The intermittent fasting pattern during Ramadan allows the digestive system to rest and function more efficiently. This can lead to improved digestion, absorption of nutrients, and a reduction in digestive issues, contributing to better health. Controls Blood Sugar During Ramadan fasting, insulin sensitivity can improve, lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes. When cells become unresponsive to insulin, insulin resistance can develop – a precursor to diabetes. Fasting prompts the body to use stored glucose for energy, reduces glucose levels, and enhances insulin sensitivity.  Read more: Healthy Iftar Meal Recipes for Breaking Ramadan Fasting Promotes Weight Loss Fasting aids weight loss by regulating portion sizes and cutting calorie intake. However, it is crucial to avoid overeating after fasting periods to maintain progress. Sustaining healthy eating habits and exercise during non-fasting hours is vital for lasting weight loss. Ramadan fasting offers a chance to reset eating patterns and foster healthier food relationships.  Good for Cardiac Health Ramadan fasting positively affects heart health by decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing inflammation, and enhancing blood circulation. This minimises the risk of heart disease and stroke. Those with existing heart conditions should seek medical advice before fasting, ensuring it aligns with their health needs. Improves Brain Function Ramadan fasting boosts cognitive performance and brain function notably by elevating the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This protein fosters brain cell growth and survival, heightening memory, learning, and mental clarity.  Read more: Ramadan Fasting Benefits: Impacts on health when you fast for 16 hours Increases Growth Hormone Secretion During Ramadan fasting, the body's growth hormone secretion is naturally enhanced. Research indicates that fasting increases human growth hormone (HGH) levels. This hormonal surge supports metabolism, aids weight loss, and promotes muscle growth, contributing to health benefits during the fasting period.  Could Extend Longevity Examining periodic fasting's impact on the human gut, a study observed an increased diversity of beneficial gut bacteria, notably Christensenella species linked to longevity. Additionally, researchers identified heightened sirtuin levels, proteins crucial for metabolic regulation and longevity. Further research is essential to grasp fasting's longevity effects and identify optimal fasting protocols. Reducing Cancer Risk  The American Cancer Society Journal suggests intermittent fasting could aid cancer treatment and prevention by reducing tumour growth and chemotherapy toxicity in certain cases. However, they stress the necessity for more robust clinical trials and advise cancer patients to undertake intermittent fasting within clinical settings. Further research is imperative to comprehensively understand fasting's impact on cancer.  Read more: 10 Healthy Iftar Drinks for Breaking Ramadan Fasting

If you find yourself reaching for a snack in the dead of night, you are not alone. Midnight cravings are a common occurrence, often driven by various factors that go beyond simple hunger. It involves a complicated interaction and psychological and physiological factors. Let's dive into the intricacies of late-night snacking, exploring the reasons behind it, its impact on health, and practical ways to curb those midnight urges. Reasons for Midnight Snack Cravings Unbalanced Meal Schedules Unbalanced meal schedules wreak havoc on the body's internal rhythm, causing a disconnection between hunger signals and actual meal times. When meals are irregular, the body, accustomed to a routine, may erroneously interpret these fluctuations, triggering nighttime hunger pangs. This disruption becomes a significant factor in midnight snack cravings. Hormonal Fluctuations Fluctuations in cortisol and ghrelin levels are pivotal in orchestrating hunger and satisfaction. They play a role in nocturnal cravings. Elevated cortisol, known as the "stress hormone," intensifies at night, prompting desires for sweet or fatty treats.  Simultaneously, heightened ghrelin is the "hunger hormone." It amplifies your appetite during the nocturnal hours and fuels the urge for midnight snacks.  Read more: 5 Yummy Homemade Pizza Recipes for Kids Inadequate Daytime Eating Skipping meals or inadequate calorie intake triggers heightened evening hunger. In the absence of sufficient daytime nourishment, the body enters "starvation mode" and slows metabolism to conserve energy. This often results in intense late-night hunger, particularly if dinner is skipped or kept light.  Stress and Emotional Eating Stress induces cravings for comfort foods, rich in sugar, fat, and salt. Elevated cortisol levels during stress can increase appetite and desire for unhealthy foods. While these provide momentary pleasure, long-term consumption may contribute to weight gain and other chronic health issues.  Dehydration  Sometimes, thirst may be misconstrued as hunger, prompting unnecessary snacking. Dehydration can send signals to the brain resembling hunger, even when food is not required. Maintaining adequate water intake throughout the day aids in distinguishing thirst from hunger and diminishes the likelihood of late-night snack cravings. Read more: 10 Healthy Iftar Drinks for Breaking Ramadan Fasting