health
Which Vitamins are Essential for Women?
Vitamins are integral for women's health. They actively maintain overall well-being, regulate vital bodily functions, and avert diverse health complications.
These nutrients play pivotal roles, supporting immunity, nurturing organs, and ensuring optimal functionality. Together they promote women's health and vitality.
6 Essential Vitamins for Women
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays a critical role in women’s health. It actively supports vision, fortifies the immune system, and nurtures reproductive health. It is also essential for maintaining healthy skin. This vitamin is abundantly found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
Actively incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into the diet ensures an adequate supply of Vitamin A. It actively fosters robust immunity, aids in cell regeneration for healthy skin, and contributes significantly to preserving optimal vision. Thus it helps ensure women’s overall well-being.
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Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 stands as an indispensable element for women. It contributes to energy production, neurological functions, and red blood cell formation. Meats, fish, dairy products, and fortified cereals serve as rich sources and ensure a substantial intake of Vitamin B12.
This vitamin is vital for sustaining nerve health, supporting cognitive functions, and aiding the production of red blood cells crucial for oxygen transport. Its active presence in the diet is pivotal for women for fostering vitality, ensuring neurological well-being, and maintaining the body's essential functions.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C serves as a pivotal nutrient for women. It helps with collagen formation, bolsters immunity, and promotes skin health. It is abundantly found in citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being and enhancing immune responses.
Read more: Vitamin C: Where to Found and How Much to Consume
It also supports collagen synthesis, fortifies skin integrity, aids in wound healing, and safeguards against infections.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D stands as one of the most necessary nutrients for women. It is great for bone health, immunity function, and mood regulation. Exposure to sunlight and the consumption of fortified foods such as fatty fish, eggs, and fortified dairy products ensure adequate Vitamin D levels.
This vital nutrient plays a pivotal role in maintaining strong bones, supporting the immune system's resilience, and regulating mood patterns. It can help to prevent Vitamin D deficiency diseases like osteoporosis. Actively incorporating these sources into the diet and sunlight exposure actively facilitates optimal Vitamin D levels.
Read more: Different forms of Vitamin D: Benefits, sources of Vitamin D1 vs D2 vs D3
Vitamin E
Vitamin E serves as a potent antioxidant. It shields women's cells from damage. This vitamin is abundantly found in nuts, seeds, spinach, and avocados. Vitamin E stands as an essential nutrient for women's health.
Its role as an antioxidant actively safeguards cells from harmful free radicals, supports skin vitality, and counteracts oxidative stress. Including these nutrient-rich foods into the diet ensures an ample supply of Vitamin E. It also protects women's overall health, preserving cellular integrity, and fortifying against the detrimental effects of oxidative damage.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K stands as a significant nutrient for women. It assists in blood clotting, bone metabolism, and heart health. Foods such as spinach, broccoli are rich in Vitamin K. It plays a significant role in supporting bone health and blood clotting mechanisms.
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By actively incorporating these Vitamin K-rich foods into the diet, women can ensure their safety from different Vitamin K deficiency issues. It also participates in blood coagulation, aids in wound healing, and supports optimal bone density. Its role in regulating calcium aids in bone metabolism, while also contributing to heart health. All together it plays a vital role in women's overall health.
Closing Lines
Maintaining a balanced intake of vital vitamins and minerals is crucial for women's health and well-being. Actively incorporating a diverse range of nutrient-rich foods aids in sustaining optimal health across life stages. This practice actively supports bodily functions, fostering resilience and promoting wellness in women.
Read more: Zinc: Health Benefits, Food Sources and Daily Requirements
International Healthcare Expo 2023 kicks off on Sep 28
The three-day ‘Bangladesh International Healthcare Expo 2023’ is going to kick off from September 28 with the aim to exchange knowledge in health and new ideas among physicians at Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Convention Hall of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Medical University (BSMMU) in Dhaka.
This information was revealed at a press conference at Nasrul Hamid auditorium of Dhaka Reporters Unity on Monday morning. One ‘Suvidha International and Empathy Solutions’ is organising the expo.
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Murad Hossain, proprietor of the organizing firm, read out the written statement of the conference.
He informed that representatives of over 30 hospitals from Bangladesh, India, Iran, Turkey, Thailand and Malaysia will participate in the expo which will continue till October 30.
At least 10 workshops on eight health issues will be held during the expo and a quiz session will also be followed by each workshop, he said.
The winning doctor of each quiz session will get a chance to train free of cost in any out of the six participating countries, the owner said.
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A total of 17 physicians will be honoured with commemorations, he added.
Dalip Kumar Chopra, director of Empathy Solution, said the object of the expo is to exchange knowledge among the participating countries.
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Directorate of Health Services’ former Director General Prof Dr. Shah Monir Hossain is the chief advisor of the expo while Foundation of Health Care and Wellness Promotion (FHCWP), Health Tourism Development Centre of Islamic Countries (HTDC), Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Service Expert Promotion Council of India (SEPCI) are international associates of the expo.
Plastic Pollution: Harmful effects on human health and environment
Plastic pollution has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time, posing significant threats to both human health and the environment. As we observe World Environment Day today (June 5, 2023), it is crucial to shed light on the harmful effects of plastic pollution and raise awareness about the urgent need for action. This global observance serves as a timely reminder that the choices we make today have far-reaching consequences for the well-being of our planet and future generations.
Harmful Effects of Plastic Pollution on Human Health
Plastic pollution has become a major environmental concern in recent years, and its impact on human health is a growing area of research. Here are some of the harmful effects of plastic pollution on human health.
Exposure to Microplastic
Microplastics, small plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have infiltrated various aspects of our lives, including our food and water sources. These tiny particles are found in high concentrations in the oceans, freshwater bodies, and even the air we breathe. Seafood, such as fish and shellfish, often contain microplastics due to their ingestion of plastic debris in the marine environment. As a result, when we consume these contaminated seafood, we unknowingly ingest microplastics.
Read more: Effects of Air Pollution on Unborn Children, Neonates, Infants
Microplastics can accumulate in our bodies over time, causing potential harm. These particles can pass through the intestinal wall and migrate to other organs, leading to inflammation, tissue damage, and disruption of normal cellular functions. Some studies suggest that microplastics may also have the potential to transport harmful chemicals and pathogens, further exacerbating health risks.
Top 10 Healthy Seeds to Eat
Nutrition plays significant roles for a human’s overall health and mental well-being. Adding seeds to one’s regular diet have numerous health benefits. Let’s discuss different types of seeds and their respective health benefits.
What Are Seeds?
All flowering plants reproduce through seeds. In simple words, a seed is the tiny, round or oval, hard component of a plant that works as the starting point of a new plant. More scientifically, a seed is a small embryonic ‘plant’, surrounded by a protective layer called the seed coat with certain reserved nutrients. In an appropriate environment, each seed has the potential to develop into a new plant.
How Seeds are Different from Nuts, Grains, and Beans
While many confuse seeds, nuts, grains, and beans; they are all different types of plant-based foods with unique characteristics. Though they share some similarities in terms of their nutritional content, they have differences.
Seeds are the reproductive parts of plants with high protein like chia seeds, sesame seeds. They are rich with healthy fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals.
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Nuts are the fruits of certain trees like almonds, peanuts. They are generally high with healthy fats, protein, fiber and various vitamins and minerals.
Grains are actually the seeds of grasses such as wheat, rice. They are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, minerals and some essential vitamins.
Beans are the edible seeds of legume plants, such as lentils, kidney beans. Beans are nutritious with protein, fiber, various vitamins and minerals.
Each of these foods has unique properties that make them valuable additions to a healthy and varied diet.
Read More: Best and Worst Foods for Brain, Memory, Focus
How to Eat Seeds
Seeds are known as nutritional powerhouse. They are not just delicious and easy to consume but also convenient for people of all ages. Thus, just having proper digestion is not sufficient. It is vital to ensure that these nutrients are absorbed effectively by the body.
The next question that arises is the appropriate way to consume seeds. Eating them raw is the only way to derive nutrition from the seeds. It expands to soaked, ground or mashed particularly when added with other foods.
It is suggested to soak seeds overnight before consumption. Although soaking provides numerous benefits, the most significant is the removal of phytic acid found on them. Overnight soaking is the most effective method for this.
When selecting seeds, raw and unsalted varieties are recommended. Seeds, coated or roasted, or with added sugar coatings must be avoided.
read more: Natural Sweeteners: 7 Healthy Alternatives of Refined Sugar
10 Healthiest Seeds
Seeds may be small in size, but when it comes to nutrition it is packed with vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. This tiny powerhouse can provide the energy needed for the day ahead. In fact, seeds can be nutritious yet satisfying and a delicious filling snack. Here are the 10 healthiest seeds with benefits to boost overall health.
What's Hair Transplant and What are the Most Popular Methods?
Who doesn’t love a head full of healthy, smooth, and shiny hair? Losing a few strands of hair every day is normal, but many experience severe hair loss. People of different age groups and genders can go through hair fall problems for diverse reasons. Excessive hair fall may lead to thinning hair, bald patches, and even baldness. Thanks to advancements in medical science, those suffering from baldness can now regain their hairline. Let’s take a look at the causes of hair loss and effective hair transplant solutions.
Common Causes of Hair Fall
An individual can experience excessive hair fall for different reasons. Here are the most common ones:
Genetics
Family history plays a crucial role in determining hair health. If one’s parents or grandparents experienced hair loss, one may be genetically predisposed to the same condition.
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Hormonal changes
Hormonal imbalances caused by pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders, or other health conditions can cause hair fall. Hormonal changes can cause hair follicles to shrink, resulting in thinner hair or bald patches.
Stress
Chronic stress can cause an increase in the hormone cortisol, which can affect the hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss.
Nutritional deficiencies
A lack of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, vitamin D, or biotin, can lead to hair loss.
Medications
Certain medications used to treat health conditions like cancer, depression, arthritis, or high blood pressure can cause hair fall as a side effect.
Read More: Best Foods for Hair Growth: What to Eat, Drink and Avoid
Excessive use of hairstyling products
Frequent use of heat styling tools, tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails, and chemical treatments like coloring or perming can damage the hair shaft and cause hair fall.
Medical conditions
Health conditions like scalp psoriasis, alopecia areata, or fungal infections can cause hair loss.
What is Hair Transplant?
Hair transplant is a surgical procedure that involves moving hair follicles from one part of the body, typically the back or sides of the scalp, to a balding or thinning area. The procedure is primarily used to treat male pattern baldness, but it can also be used to restore hair loss due to injury or burns. The transplanted hair follicles are usually harvested in groups of one to four hairs and transplanted into tiny incisions made in the recipient area. Over time, the transplanted hairs grow and blend in with the existing hair, creating a natural-looking hairline.
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10 Energy Healing Methods: Which One is Right for You?
Energy healing manipulates the "energy fields" of the human body to promote balance. Whether seeking relief from pain or enhancing overall well-being, energy healing can help. It's an alternative therapy used for centuries across different cultures. Believing that the human body has an energy system, several types of energy healing methods are practiced around the world. Each kind of energy healing bestows unique benefits. Let’s explore 10 energy healing methods.
10 Popular Energy Healing Methods
Yoga
Yoga is a centuries-old practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, meditation, and the chakra system to promote holistic healing and wellness. Various forms of yoga exist that focus on energy healing, such as Kundalini, Iyengar, and Vinyasa.
Kundalini yoga emphasizes the awakening of energy within the body, Iyengar yoga emphasizes proper alignment to promote energy flow, and Vinyasa yoga uses movement and breath to enhance the flow of prana, or life force energy, throughout the body.
Read More: Which Type of Yoga Should You Try?
Yoga first originated almost 5000 years ago in ancient India. It can provide numerous benefits, including reduced stress, improved flexibility and strength, and enhanced mental clarity and focus. However, it is important to approach yoga with caution and consult with a qualified teacher, as certain postures and practices may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health conditions or injuries.
Reiki
Reiki is a form of energy healing that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. It is based on the concept that there is a universal life force energy that flows through all living things, and when this energy is blocked or disrupted, it can cause physical or emotional distress.
During a Reiki session, the practitioner uses their hands to channel this energy into the recipient's body, helping to remove any blockages and promote balance and harmony. The benefits of Reiki can include relaxation, emotional release, and an overall sense of well-being. There are minimal risks associated with Reiki, as it is non-invasive and gentle.
Read More: What is Reiki? Does It Really Work?
Massage
Massage is a popular and ancient form of energy healing that uses various techniques to manipulate the body's energy and promote relaxation. The origins of massage can be traced back to ancient China, Egypt, and India. During a session, the therapist uses their hands and sometimes other tools to apply pressure to different parts of the body, helping to release tension and improve blood and lymphatic circulation.
Massage has been shown to have numerous benefits, including reducing stress, easing muscle pain, and improving sleep quality. It is generally considered safe, but certain conditions may require caution or avoidance of massage, such as deep vein thrombosis or infectious skin diseases.
Reflexology
Reflexology is an energy healing practice that utilizes specific pressure points on the feet, hands, and ears to stimulate healing. Practitioners believe that these pressure points correspond to different organs and systems in the body, and by applying pressure, energy can flow freely and balance can be restored. Reflexology was invented in Egypt and was practiced from 2500 BC.
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Reflexology can promote relaxation, improve circulation, and reduce stress and anxiety. Some individuals may experience discomfort or soreness during a session, and reflexology is not recommended for individuals with foot injuries or certain medical conditions.
Craniosacral
Craniosacral therapy is an alternative healing technique that involves a gentle touch approach to assess the movement of fluids surrounding the central nervous system. This therapy is designed to relieve stress, tension headaches, and neck pain by targeting the areas that are causing discomfort. It is believed that craniosacral therapy can also help restore balance and promote wellness after experiencing traumatic injuries.
The origin of this practice can be traced back to osteopathy and cranial osteopathy, which was developed by Andrew Taylor Still. He invented it as a way to remove restrictions in human skulls in a toxic-free way. The main benefit of craniosacral therapy is its ability to provide relief from chronic pain without invasive procedures or medications.
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However, as with any therapy, there are risks involved, such as potential side effects or adverse reactions. It is important to consult with a qualified practitioner before undergoing this therapy.
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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Bangladesh almost self-sufficient in treatment of heart diseases: PM Hasina
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday said the country’s health sector has witnessed significant progress despite various limitations over the last 14 years.
“Bangladesh is now almost self-sufficient in cardiac care. Bangladesh has the capacity to treat 95 to 98 percent of cardiovascular diseases as skilled manpower, modern technology and equipment are available here in the country,” she said.
The premier said this in a video message aired in the 3rd International Scientific Conference arranged by Bangladesh Cardiovascular Research Foundation (BCRF) in the city.
She also opened the two-day conference being held at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel.
Hasina said healthcare has now become much more accessible and reached the doorsteps of common people.
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“As the country's cardiologists and doctors provide better medical services to the patients in the country, the people of the country are benefiting and thus (the country’s) foreign currency is being saved,” she said.
She said work is underway to set up a full-fledged pediatric cardiac unit in Dhaka for better treatment of pediatric cardiac patients in the country. “Plans have been taken to extend such facilities to other government hospitals as well,” she added.
To increase the scope of pediatric cardiac treatment, the scope to produce pediatric cardiologists has been enhanced as a full-fledged pediatric cardiology and pediatric cardiac surgery unit was set up at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, said the PM.
A 500-bed world-class 'Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Research Institute' has been established in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, she said.
The premier stressed the need for focusing on preventive measures regarding cardiovascular diseases as the number of cardiac patients is on rise in the country.
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“The number of cardiac patients is increasing day by day in the country due to various reasons including diet, lack of physical work, smoking and excessive diabetes. Along with the development of cardiovascular disease care, we also need to pay attention to preventive measures,” she said.
PM Hasina said cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death in Bangladesh and all over the world. According to the World Health Organization, some 17.9 million people die every year in the world due to cardiovascular diseases.
“About 27 percent of total deaths in Bangladesh are caused by cardiovascular diseases. At present, 10 children per thousand are suffering from cardiovascular diseases in the country. One in five young people in Bangladesh is at risk of heart disease,” she said.
Focusing on her government’s steps for the development of the health sector, the PM said it has taken a plan to build a medical college in every district. The number of medical colleges rose to 115 now from 50 ones in 2009, while the number of MBBS course seats went up to 10,789 from only 2,050 in 2009, she said.
She said her government will build a medical university in every division and four medical universities have already been set up.
Pointing to the participants, their participation in the 3rd Scientific Conference has created a unique opportunity to share knowledge and experiences among cardiac specialists.
New prog “Welcome Corps” launched enabling Americans to sponsor refugees
The US Department of State, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services, has launched the Welcome Corps, a new private sponsorship program that will enable Americans to sponsor refugees arriving through the US Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), directly support their resettlement, and make a difference by welcoming these new neighbors into their communities.
This program invites Americans to be partners and guides to refugees as they build new lives in the United States and help them realize their full potential.
“In the face of unprecedented global displacement, the United States will continue to lead the international community in humanitarian response, including refugee resettlement,” said US Department of State Antony J. Blinken on Thursday.
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By launching the Welcome Corps, he said, they build on a proud tradition of providing refuge and demonstrate the spirit and generosity of the American people as we commit to welcoming refugees in need of their support.
“In the program’s first year, our goal is to mobilize at least 10,000 Americans to step forward as private sponsors and offer a welcoming hand to at least 5,000 refugees from around the world,” Blinken said.
The Welcome Corps will build on the “extraordinary response” of the American people over the past year in welcoming our Afghan allies, Ukrainians displaced by war, Venezuelans, and others fleeing violence and oppression.
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The Welcome Corps is the boldest innovation in refugee resettlement in four decades and it is designed to strengthen and expand the capacity of the USRAP by harnessing the energy and talents of Americans from all walks of life desiring to serve as private sponsors – ranging from members of faith and civic groups, veterans, diaspora communities, businesses, colleges and universities, and more.
Broilers chicken not harmful to health: Minister
There is no health risk in eating broiler chicken as it contains antibiotic and heavy metal residues far below the maximum tolerable levels in meat, said Agriculture Minister Abdur Razzaque on Thursday.
Broiler chicken meat, bones and composites mainly contain small amount of two antibiotics (oxytetracycline and doxycycline) and three heavy metals (arsenic, chromium and lead), which is not unusual and is far below the maximum tolerable level, he said referring to a research report.
He was speaking at a press conference revealing the outcome of the research on whether there are antibiotics, heavy metals and other elements harmful to human health in broiler chicken meat at the secretariat.
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He said broiler meat available in supermarkets has lower levels of antibiotics and heavy metals than those in farms and kitchen markets.
Campaigns in various newspapers and social media show that broiler meat contains antibiotics, heavy metals and other harmful substances that are harmful to human health. For these kind of misleading information, a misconception has been created among public about broiler meat leading to less consumption of broiler meat, said Razzaque.
“As a result, the broiler industry faces a great loss which we have seen during the Covid-19 outbreak in 2020. Consumption of nutritious broiler meat was reduced in the early stages of the disease outbreak," added the minister.
If the demand for broilers can be increased, it is possible to increase the production by making full use of the existing farms and infrastructure in the country, said the agriculture minister, urging all to popularise broiler meat among people.
So, the broiler chicken market will grow rapidly, the establishment of the poultry meat processing industry will increase, employment will be created and a large amount of foreign exchange will also be earned through exports, he said.
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"Besides, campaigns and public awareness should be created on the consumption of broiler chicken to build a healthy nation, meet the demand for meat and create employment."
Speaking at the press briefing, Fisheries and Livestock Minister SM Rezaul Karim said the government is trying to modernise the poultry sector and provide government support for its development. “We have also requested NBR (National Board of Revenue) to give duty concession on import of poultry feed.”