United News of Bangladesh

Residents at The Terraces, a retirement community in Los Gatos, California, are rediscovering adventure and connection through virtual reality (VR) technology. Many of the seniors, most in their 80s and 90s, are unable to travel far but can now explore distant places, dive into oceans, or experience thrill-seeking activities like hang-gliding—all from the comfort of their chairs. The VR programs, curated by Massachusetts-based Rendever, aim to enhance cognitive function and foster social bonds. During one session, residents paddled along with dolphins in a 3D underwater simulation. Another virtual hot-air balloon ride left participants gasping with excitement. Some residents even revisit childhood neighborhoods through VR, evoking cherished memories. “It’s not just seeing it again; it’s the memories it brings back,” said 84-year-old Sue Livingstone. Adrian Marshall, community life director at The Terraces, noted that VR often becomes a conversation starter, encouraging residents to connect over shared experiences. Research shows VR can improve memory, reduce isolation, and strengthen intergenerational relationships when used thoughtfully. Doctors recommend belly laughs two to five times a week for health benefits Rendever, which received a $4.5 million NIH grant, plans to study ways VR can reduce social isolation for seniors at home and their caregivers. Experts emphasize that while VR is not a replacement for traditional activities, it provides a meaningful and engaging avenue for seniors to socialize and enjoy new experiences. Residents at other retirement communities, such as the Forum in Silicon Valley, also use VR to revisit past travels and experience nature or performances. For Bob Rogallo, living with dementia, a virtual hike through Glacier National Park brought joy, while 93-year-old Almut Schultz delighted in a virtual music performance and playful puppy interactions. Source: AP 

Melanin Bee arches her back like a stretching cat and lets out a series of forced, exaggerated laughs that soon turn into genuine giggles as she kicks her feet with delight. She is practicing “Laughasté,” a comedic yoga routine she created that traces its roots to laughter clubs first established in India in the 1990s. “It’s about being comfortable with awkwardness,” said Bee, a Los Angeles comedian and speaker. “Once you do that, you find a silliness within that leads to involuntary laughter.” Medical experts say laughter offers more than stress relief. Dr. Michael Miller, a cardiologist at the University of Pennsylvania, compared it to exercise. “Like we recommend physical activity at least three to five days a week, you should belly laugh at least two to five days weekly,” he said. Laughter promotes heart health, boosts immunity, and triggers endorphins, natural painkillers that also improve mood. The modern study of laughter, or gelotology, began in the 1960s. Research has shown that even simulated laughter provides health benefits, including lowering stress hormones, blood sugar levels, and chronic pain, according to Jenny Rosendhal, a medical psychology researcher at Germany’s Jena University. Laughter yoga, which combines intentional laughter with deep breathing and gentle stretches, has proven especially effective for people experiencing depression or illness. Laughing yoga founder Dr. Madan Kataria in Mumbai created structured exercises that encourage participants to laugh for no reason, using movements and sounds to engage the diaphragm. “It’s about activating your laughter muscles and removing mental inhibitions,” Kataria said. “The real, childlike laughter follows naturally.” Source: AP 

Visiting a doctor can be stressful at any age, with patients often forgetting symptoms, medications, or questions until after leaving the office. Preparing ahead is key to making the most of the time with a healthcare provider. Dr. Sarah Nosal, president of the American Academy of Family Physicians, said even doctors struggle to remember everything they want to discuss with their own physicians. She advises patients to bring a written list of symptoms and questions, prioritizing the most urgent concerns at the top. “Once you leave the office, you can lose that time,” Nosal said. Primary care doctors play a central role in overall health. They not only provide preventive care such as vaccinations and screenings, but also monitor chronic conditions, detect emerging health problems, and coordinate referrals to specialists. “Knowing a patient over time helps me recognize what’s normal and what’s changed,” Nosal explained. Preparation should start at home. Young adults may need help recalling medical history, including past surgeries, hospitalizations, and vaccinations. Updating family health history — such as incidences of diabetes, stroke, or early-onset cancer — can guide preventive care. Indonesia’s first giant panda cub squeals and squirms in new park footage Patients should also document all medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements, as these can interact. Checking whether recent lab results or records from other providers have been sent to the doctor is also important. Nosal recommends keeping a running list of questions before the appointment. Specific details about symptoms or health concerns, including mental and sexual health, should be included and presented early during the visit. Patients can share these lists via patient portals or check-in forms. Asking questions repeatedly is encouraged. Patients should understand the rationale behind a diagnosis and next steps, and it is often helpful to bring a friend or relative to take notes. “Whether you are 20 or 85, you will not remember everything from your medical visit,” Nosal said. Source: AP 

Whenever I feel overwhelmed — or not nearly enough — I bake a pie. Pie is how I mark milestones: meeting someone new, returning from an inspiring trip, solving a tough problem, or simply trying to create a sense of home. That habit eventually led to my cookbook “50 Pies, 50 States,” a culinary project shaped around learning about America through pies inspired by each state’s people and regional ingredients. When it came to pumpkin pie, the choice was obvious: Illinois. Nearly 85% of the canned pumpkin used nationwide comes from the state, and pumpkin pie is officially its state dessert. But I wanted something more creative than a traditional version. Then the idea landed: blend classic pumpkin pie with Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza — a tall, fork-and-knife affair baked in a skillet. The result is a towering deep-dish pumpkin pie that feels as ambitious as a Chicago skyscraper. The crust is the trickiest part. I always brush mine with an egg wash — one whole egg, one extra yolk, and two tablespoons of milk or water whisked or blended smooth — for a golden finish. Don’t rush the dough; keeping it chilled is key. And here’s a pro tip: prepare the filling a day ahead so the custard sets more firmly. Deep-Dish Pumpkin PieMakes one 9-inch pieTotal time: 6 hours (1 hour active) IngredientsCrust Enough all-butter pie dough for a double-crustEgg washPumpkin Filling 1 cup granulated sugar1 cup packed brown sugar2 tbsp cornstarchSpices: ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves1 tsp kosher salt¼ tsp black pepperTwo 15-oz cans pumpkin purée2½ cups heavy cream6 beaten eggsEquipment 9-in. springform pan (minimum 2½ in. deep)Parchment paperDirectionsMake the filling: Mix all dry ingredients. In another bowl, combine pumpkin, cream, and eggs, then blend in the dry mixture. Chill at least 2 hours or overnight. Blind-bake the crust: Heat oven to 425°F. Roll out dough with a 1-inch overhang and press it into a greased, parchment-lined springform pan. Freeze 1 hour. Prick with a fork, line with foil, and fill with pie weights. Bake 30 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely with weights in place. Fill and bake: Reduce oven to 400°F. Remove weights, brush with egg wash, and fill with chilled pumpkin mixture. Bake 45–50 minutes, rotating every 15 minutes, until mostly set with a slight wobble in the center. Tent edges with foil if browning too quickly. Cool at least 4 hours before unmolding. Serve with whipped cream — ideally while watching The Last Dance about Michael Jordan and the 1997 Chicago Bulls. Source: AP

When Shilpa Gajarawala began experiencing intense hot flashes, sleepless nights and brain fog, hormone therapy wasn’t an option. The 58-year-old physician assistant from Jacksonville, Florida, had survived breast cancer — and that history put standard hormone treatments off the table. “For two years, I tried to kind of power through,” she said. But specialists say women like Gajarawala don’t need to endure these symptoms. Although many rely on hormone therapy to ease menopause, new federal label changes may lead more women to consider it. Still, a large number avoid the treatment, and doctors advise others to steer clear due to conditions such as severe liver disease, or histories of heart attack, stroke, blood clots or hormone-sensitive breast cancer. For them, experts say a wide range of lifestyle changes, nonhormonal medications and other strategies can offer relief. “The key here is that there’s something for everybody,” said Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director at the Menopause Society. “There’s always a solution.” Lifestyle changes Doctors say exercise doesn’t directly eliminate menopausal symptoms, but it can contribute to weight loss — and even modest reductions in weight have been linked to fewer hot flashes and night sweats. They recommend a mix of aerobic exercise such as walking or running, along with strength training to slow bone loss. Diet also plays a role. Emerging research shows a “plant-forward” diet rich in vegetables and soy and low in oil may reduce hot flashes, Faubion said. While the reasons are not fully understood, some experts believe the benefit may be tied to weight management. Physicians also suggest avoiding common triggers, including caffeine and alcohol. Eating well and staying active help curb rising midlife health risks, such as heart disease and diabetes, which are influenced by the sharp decline in estrogen during menopause. “It’s important that we focus on maintaining cardiovascular health,” said Faubion, noting the need for adequate sleep, stress management and smoking cessation. Prescription medications Several nonhormonal prescription drugs have shown promise. Certain antidepressants can ease hot flashes and mood disturbances. Oxybutynin, a drug commonly used for overactive bladder, may also reduce hot flashes while helping with frequent urination — another common menopausal complaint. A newer entrant, Veozah (fezolinetant), works by targeting the part of the brain that regulates body temperature and blocking the source of hot flashes. Another nonhormonal drug, elinzanetant — sold as Lynkuet — was recently cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and works similarly, blocking two nerve-system molecules instead of one. 5 simple lifestyle changes that may help slow biological ageing: Experts However, the medications carry risks. Veozah includes a warning about rare but serious liver injury. Lynkuet can cause fatigue and trouble staying awake. Oxybutynin may lead to dry mouth or incomplete bladder emptying. Some antidepressants can cause weight gain, although generally at higher doses than those used for menopause. “There’s no medication out there that’s entirely free of risk,” said Dr. JoAnn Manson of Harvard Medical School. Other approaches Nonhormonal over-the-counter options — such as lubricants — can help with vaginal dryness. Cognitive behavioral therapy has proved useful in helping women cope with hot flashes by reducing their psychological impact. Clinical hypnosis may also help, with moderate evidence suggesting fewer and less severe hot flashes, Manson said, though more research is needed. Dr. Juliana Kling of the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine said women should not feel they must simply endure menopause. “I would implore women to have that conversation ... about what treatment might be beneficial for them,” she said. Gajarawala has since changed her routine: she avoids red wine, walks 10,000 steps daily, practices tai chi and uses an extended-release antidepressant. “It’s been a significant improvement,” she said. Source: AP

Your “biological age” may say more about your health than the number of years you have lived. While chronological age counts your birthdays, biological age reflects how well your body’s systems are functioning — and how long you are likely to live. With modern epigenetic testing, people can now estimate their biological age at home using a simple saliva sample. The results often reveal how diet, exercise, sleep and habits like smoking or drinking influence the pace of ageing. Experts say the encouraging news is that healthy choices can lower biological age, giving people more control over their long-term wellbeing. Longevity specialists Dr Sophie Shotter and Nadine Baggott outline five lifestyle habits that can help slow the ageing process: 1. Stay active and keep a youthful mindset Exercise is one of the strongest protective factors against age-related decline. Even a few minutes of daily physical activity — such as brisk walking or varied body movements — reduces the risk of serious illnesses. According to The Independent, exercise affects DNA methylation, a process that regulates genes linked to ageing signs like wrinkles and greying hair. 2. Choose healthier foods Diet plays a major role in chronic disease and biological ageing. A study cited in the report found that nearly 2,700 women who adopted healthier eating habits for 6–12 months lowered their biological age by an average of 2.4 years. Experts recommend meals rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, lean proteins, fish and healthy fats to support cell repair and reduce stress on DNA. 3. Prioritise adequate sleep Consistently getting about eight hours of sleep helps the body repair DNA, restore hormonal balance, reduce inflammation and clear cellular waste. Proper sleep lowers the risk of age-related conditions including diabetes, heart disease, cancer and dementia. 4. Avoid harmful habits Smoking, vaping and excessive alcohol consumption significantly accelerate ageing. The report notes that smoking can age the lungs by more than four years and airway cells by nearly five years. These habits damage DNA, increase inflammation and put extreme stress on cells. 5. Manage stress effectively Chronic stress disrupts hormonal responses and weakens the immune system, which can accelerate biological ageing. Experts say practising emotional regulation and stress-management techniques can add years to healthy life. Research also indicates that external factors — such as loneliness, harsh climates, pollution and living conditions — influence how quickly people age. Their impact varies depending on genetics, level of exposure and overall lifestyle. With inputs from NDTV

Speakers on Tuesday said ensuring the availability of vitamin-fortified and safe edible oil is now a pressing need to nurture a healthy and productive generation. The speakers said this at a workshop for journalists titled ‘Vitamin-Fortified Safe Edible Oil for All: Progress, Challenges, and Way Forward’, at the BMA Bhaban in Dhaka. The workshop was organised by PROGGA (Knowledge for Progress) and the National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh, with participation from 23 journalists from print, television, and online media. They said the sale of edible oil in open drums violates government regulations and poses risks to public health. Although Vitamin ‘A’ Enrichment in Edible Oils Act, 2013 exists, most oils in the market does not contain any vitamins or contain less than the mandated amount, they said. A study by ICDDR, B found that 65% of edible oil in the market is sold in drums, of which 59% does not contain any vitamin A, and only 7% meet the legal standard for vitamin content. The speakers said these non-food grade, hazardous drums are often used previously to store chemicals, engine oil, or industrial products. These drums also do not provide information about the oil’s source or quality, allowing adulterated or substandard oils to enter the market easily. T They called for strengthened coordinated monitoring by the Ministry of Industries, BSTI, the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection, and the Food Safety Authority to ensure safe, vitamin-fortified edible oil. The speakers also pointed out that vitamin A deficiency rises the risk of childhood blindness and maternal mortality, while vitamin D deficiency is associated with greater risk of rickets, loss of bone density, cardiovascular disease, and various non-communicable diseases. Fakir Muhammad Munawar Hossain, Former Director (Deputy Secretary), Operations and Laboratories Department, Directorate of National Consumers' Right Protection (DNCRP); Mustak Hassan Md. Iftekhar, Consultant, National Heart Foundation Hospital & Research Institute; Dr. Ashek Mahfuz, Portfolio Lead for Large Scale Food Fortification (LSFF) and Value Chain, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), among others, were present. The key presentations were delivered by Dr. Aliva Haque, Program Officer and Md. Hasan Shahriar, Head of Programs, PROGGA.

Nearly 80 percent of strokes are preventable through lifestyle modifications and controlling high blood pressure, quitting smoking, avoiding unhealthy diets and staying physically active, said experts. The experts said this at the International Stroke Conference 2025 held on Sunday at Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), marking a significant milestone in advancing stroke awareness, prevention and treatment. They urged community-level interventions and called for integrating stroke education into schools, workplaces, and even urban planning. Speakers said that a new era for acute stroke care and the development of next-generation neurointervention services conference can raise public awareness, enhance prevention and ensure modern stroke treatment in Bangladesh. With the theme of “Transformation of Acute Stroke Care and Development of Next Generation Neurointervention Services in BMU,” the scientific session highlighted innovative approaches to emergency stroke treatment and advanced neurointervention technologies. Experts emphasised that stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability in Bangladesh — yet most cases are preventable. Organised by BMU’s Department of Neurology, the event took place at Shaheed Dr. Milon Hall. BMU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Md. Shahinul Alam attended the programme as the chief guest while Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Prof. Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Azad presided over the session. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Md. Shahinul Alam said the International Stroke Conference would open a new horizon in stroke management. “With the support of foreign experts, BMU aims to ensure state-of-the-art stroke treatment facilities in Bangladesh. Their participation today reflects a strong commitment to advancing modern neurological care in our country,” he said. Other speakers highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, prevention strategies, and the need for integrated stroke management. Experts said despite progress in medical science, public knowledge about stroke remains alarmingly low. Millions in Bangladesh still fail to recognise early symptoms, leading to treatment delays and preventable deaths, they said. Recognising some early signs including face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty can save both life and brain, they said. Speakers later emphasised the need to align Bangladesh’s stroke management guidelines with international standards, expand data sharing, and strengthen global training programs. Sustainable progress in stroke prevention and care is impossible without global collaboration, they said.

High-protein foods are often associated with weight loss, but some popularly marketed protein-rich items may actually contribute to weight gain due to their high fat and carbohydrate content. In an October 23 Instagram post, online nutrition coach Justin Gichaba highlighted five such foods that can add to belly fat instead of supporting fat loss. Peanut butter – Often considered a protein powerhouse, peanut butter is actually high in fat, which significantly increases its calorie content. While it provides some protein, the accompanying fats can outweigh its benefits. Beans – Though beans are thought to be protein-rich, they contain a large amount of carbohydrates alongside their protein, which may hinder weight loss if consumed in excess. Quinoa – Despite being marketed as a high-protein grain, quinoa is primarily composed of carbohydrates. Its protein content is relatively modest and should not be relied on as a main protein source. Nuts – Almonds, cashews, pistachios, and other nuts are packed with fat along with protein. The high fat content limits their effectiveness as a primary protein source. Granola – Even varieties labeled “high protein” are typically rich in carbohydrates and fats, which outweigh the protein content, potentially impacting fat loss goals. Gichaba cautioned, “If you rely on any of these five foods as your main protein source, losing fat will be extremely difficult, and in some cases, you may even gain weight.” Source: NDTV

Dr Saurabh Sethi, an AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford-trained gastroenterologist, has shared three easy-to-prepare drinks that he often recommends to his patients suffering from fatty liver disease — a growing health concern linked to poor diet, lack of exercise, and excessive alcohol or processed food intake. In a short video posted on Instagram on Sunday, Dr Sethi highlighted that while medical treatment and lifestyle changes remain essential for managing fatty liver, simple dietary additions can also make a significant difference. 1. Beetroot juice Dr Sethi said beetroot juice is rich in betalains — antioxidants that protect liver cells and reduce fat buildup. He advised moderation due to its natural sugar content, suggesting one glass a few times a week to support liver health. 2. Coffee Coffee, he noted, can lower the risk of fatty liver and liver fibrosis. Dr Sethi recommended choosing organic coffee without sugar, adding that natural sweeteners like honey, monk fruit, or stevia can be used — but without erythritol additives. 3. Green tea Green tea, he said, contains catechins such as EGCG that have been shown to improve liver enzymes and reduce fat accumulation. Drinking a few cups weekly can help maintain liver function while providing a mild caffeine boost. “These drinks are backed by science and clinical experience. They can help reduce liver fat, improve digestion, and support overall liver health,” Dr Sethi wrote in his post. He added that maintaining liver health does not require complicated detox regimens or expensive supplements. “Sometimes, the simplest daily choices — like what you drink — can make the biggest impact,” he said. Source: NDTV