Monday 16 March 2020

Corona – fight till the end.

https://anushveda.com/blog-posts/
There is a need to look at some statistics which point out to certain measures that can be taken to curtail the spread of the corona virus. We have
There are currently 169,719 confirmed cases and 6,518 deaths from the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak as of March 16, 2020. The analysis given below is compiled upto march 16th.

China has reported 80886 cases to date and 3213 deaths, total recovered cases 67,758. Germany has reported 5813 cases and 13 deaths. South Korea has reported 8236 cases and 75 deaths. While Switzerland Has reported 2217 cases and 14 deaths, the UK has figures of 1391cases  and 35 deaths and Norway  1256 cases  and 3 deaths.
Weekly case trends indicate a very strong rise in cases in week 3 and week 4.

America
wk 1 - 4
wk 2 - 105
wk 3 - 3713
total deaths-69

France 
wk 1 - 12
wk 2 - 191
wk 3 - 653
wk 4 - 5423
total deaths- 127

Iran
wk 1 - 2
wk 2 - 43
wk 3 - 245
wk 4 - 4747
wk 5 - 13938
total deaths-727


Italy
wk 1 - 3
wk 2 - 152
wk 3 - 1036
wk 4 - 6362
wk 5 - 24747
total deaths -  1809

Spain
wk 1 - 8
wk 3 - 674
wk 4 - 6043
total deaths- 292



India 

Week 1 - 3
Week 2 - 24
Week 3 - 105
total deaths-02

The reason for a sharp rise in cases after 15 days of inception or first case could be manifold. Such as the late reaction of governments to respond proactively to the corona scare and societies all across countries not being fast enough in terms of isolation and quarantine, individuals being not alert and responsive enough. We can safely state that although social media is erupt with virus news across all platforms much of which is misleading, by and large television, radio and the internet have facilitated an across the spectrum communication about the virus and dos and donts which has been fast and quick to reach every home and ear. In a nutshell social gatherings in markets, malls, public transports, offices, camps etc has to be brought to a halt and self isolation be the way forward for the prescribed period of 14 days in affected cases and indefinitely for those trying to prevent acquisition of the virus. Handwashing and masking become all the more necessary.    

The Indian scenario

As per the weekly trends, next two weeks are crucial for India. Its Game on. If we take adequate precaution and break the chain then we can tide the Corona virus outbreak else we are facing a catastrophe of sorts due to the sheer numbers and casual systems that India has. Especially for the elderly population vigilation needs to be top bracket.
India has done well so far in its fight to contain Corona Virus. Now we are in stage 3 in which Virus spreads through social contacts & in social gatherings. This is the most critical stage wherein number of confirmed cases spread exponentially day to day. As in Italy it jumped from 300 to 10,000. If India is not able to manage this stage for next 3 to 4 weeks then we could have confirmed cases not in Thousands but in Lakhs. This is why march last week and first two weeks of April are extremely crucial. The authorities have done well by shutting most events & public gatherings  till 15th April. Section 144 is also being imposed selectively and thoughtfully. Pre emptive camps are being setup such as the border security force camp in Delhi which can house 4000 inmates as one of the many. There seems to be close co ordination between governments and intra departments to mobilise all resources at hand. However the actual answer lies with all of us as individuals and as responsible family members, citizens and constituents of the Indian society. We need to act with discipline and recognise the enormity of the situation.

For example, just because schools are closed avoid getting that compulsive travel & Holiday bug. Holidays will come next year too ! Marriage functions, Birthday parties etc can wait. Next 30 days will be most crucial in medical History of India. Take all precautions while at home & while outside for any important work. Precaution should  not be coupled with panic. It is a chosen path most prudent opinions will suggest.
Responsibility means getting prompt check up done in case of any symptom reflecting. Helping others around in the circle of friends, neighbours, colleagues with inputs and experience sharing. Bringing sensitivity amongst circle of influence.

Work from home could be associated with doing things in the house which were only a yearning too. Its time to be telling bedtime stories to kids. Little do we know that we ourselves are part of a bed time story to be told in future !

Statistics are picked up from worldometers.info.

#coronaindia


Sunday 15 March 2020

COVID 19

https://anushveda.com/covid-19/
CORONA VIRUS SYNDROME - The covid 19 virus has wreaked havoc amongst the entire world communities. As we write this more than 4000 people have already succumbed to it world wide with the most hectic damage being done in China, Italy and Iran. The impact on health of people is far reaching. It has a tendency to consume and affect people with lower immunity especially the very young and old. Those who have strong immunity may not get it themselves but could become potential carriers themselves and that is what is happening. In such a scenario the protocol to be followed is the most extreme one. We need to first of all get away from the natural thought process of "it can't happen to me,'. Well as we have seen it can happen to anyone anywhere anytime. It is a very scary scenario and one which calls for immediate and complete measures to be taken by us all at a family and individual level.
Personal hygiene factors as being highlighted everywhere need to be adopted as a daily routine protocol. This includes frequent handwashes, face washes, if outside home then use alcohol based sanitizers, avoid outside food as it has had many hands touch it before it has reached you, self isolate yourself as much as possible. If in a gathering avoid close proximity or physical contact. Wear clean and fresh clothing and keep surroundings disinfected. It goes without saying that avoid mass gatherings or crowds. If imperative then use mask. If you are not well you need to wear mask. If you are well then also you need to wear a mask to stay that way. As the epicentre of the pandemic spreads from China westwards towards Europe the situation as being reported from China indicates stabilisation. The effects of quarantine protocols being followed and symptomatic treatments being given to the affected lot seems to be gradually show signs of beating the virus. For those having to go to work, offices and establishments should use their own means of transport, avoid eating in office groups, avoid close facial interaction and keep disinfecting your hands. A conscious effort has to be made to ensure that hands don't touch the face. If individual protocols are followed then society, communion, group, mass union protocols will automatically take shape. Mental discipline has to come into each one of us to do what is to be done and to change our life styles as the need of the hour suggests. It is not very complicated after all. Human kind has faced much worser episodes of mass impact and while no doubt this is an international emergency as no land patch or country is not affected by it, the resources at the disposal of societies and governments is huge and proactive measures need to be put in place where the spread is just begun. Countries need to copy the Chinese containment model and not be taken unawares such as in the Italian case. We in India as it is are susceptible to deep impact of the virus as the infrastructure might just not be able to bear the load as in India numbers are always huge due to the population density and size. However all stakeholders seem to be well abreast of the situation till now.
If we don't know how to treat the virus then atleast we make full use of what we know. So let's all get together and beat the virus. We have to else..... Oh well there is no else here. It has to be played like a zero error game.


Monday 10 April 2017

Science of Ageing

In the words of  Aldous Huxley, "The knowledge that every ambition is doomed to frustration at the hands of a skeleton have never prevented the majority of human beings from behaving as though death were no more than an unfounded rumour."
While many search for the proverbial mountain of youth, the mass quest has been hovering around the question why do we age at all ? What is it in our bodies in the shape of continual chemical processes or biological protocols that causes us to grow old. There are a plethora of internal and external factors such as diet, exercise or environmental stress and they all contribute to cell damage and affect the rate of ageing, but the truth is that we have a biological clock buried deep within our genetic make up. This clock can only run for so long, in other words we are programmed to die.
Our bodies are made up of trillions of cells, countless perhaps, which are constantly dividing and each time it happens the cells make a copy of their DNA as well or replicate themselves. This DNA is tightly packed into structures called chromosomes. Characteristics and genetics passed on down the generations or racks of sets of chromosomes is dependent on these structures. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes. While the DNA replication isn’t quite perfect it skips over the end of each chromosome or at ends is a kind of incomplete process. To protect against important DNA information from being cut out due to this incompletion or imperfection of the process of replication, chromosomes are equipped with “telomeres” on their ends which are essentially meaningless repeat of DNA, something similar to temp files being created while working on a system which  we can afford to loose.  However, each time these cells divide and replicate, these “telomeres" become shorter and shorter until eventually they are entirely stripped away at which point the cell ceases to divide further and eventually dies. In the absence of this shortening of telomeres life could have been eternal and never ending.
Some organisms such as flatworms have the capability of regenerating unlimited telomeres hinting capability to be actually immortal, however disease, infection and environment equals them out with the rest of us. This suggests that aging is related to biological and environment factors. Why don’t our cells replicate telomeres. Ultimately this replication limit actually helps to prevent diseases such as cancer, which is the uncontrollable growth of cells and evasion of cell death.
The point at which a cell stops replicating is known as cellular “senescence.” The causes of senescence and possibilities of delaying or avoiding altogether is the basic tenets of all researches world over.
Human cells can replicate approx 50 times in their lifespan and once it is reached the cell gradually begins to loose it’s function and die, displaying age related characteristics. This also helps to explain why life expectancy is a trait which is inherited down generations through genes, since parents and generations further gave us the length of our telomere and the traits of a timeframe as well in which the entire cycle of a chromosome or cell or telomeres would be run.


Gerontology emerged as a science in late 19th century and seeks towards attaining answers and extensions. Technological innovations have increased life expectancy as better sanitation, clean water, effective prescriptive drugs availability and better medical and health services have all contributed to increasing life expectancy worldwide. However still we are able to see a global inequality in terms of infant or at birth mortality rate which is a cause of worry still, both in developing and done with nations.
Ageing has been studied and gazed upon by all cultures and civilizations. Immortality has been longed for by all generations and compared to salvation or moksha. Ranging from Indian mythology to Chinese folklore, mentions of immortality are rampant across times prestine, There are abundant  chinese medicine which stake high claim on ageing slowing medications and potions for enhancing longevity. In the West ageing has been approached through evaluations done scientifically as exhibited in the studies and works of eminent authors and researchers. One such study by Christopher Hufeland, a German physicist, refers to “protocol for life style and diet to increase life expectancy.”
As the population of the modern world entered old age and experienced degenerative old age related diseases, demand for anti-ageing options increased and the anti ageing industry grew in leaps and bounds with it’s cart of offerings. The growth happened similar to alternate medicine, where the segment has thrived on using scientific principles and fundamental theories symbolically and in an ambiguous, opportunistic way, to present their case and at the same time lay no claims on proven experiments which authenticate their claim. In the garb of rationale reasoning that science offers and yet maintaining distance from clarity, these products continue to grow  and the segment world wide has contributed each year to the GDP. Whatever may be the case the population needs a remedy.
Government released articles make profound mention of anti ageing products and the industry and state the anti-ageing consumer industry to be a sizeable one, full of all types of products at all price levels catering to all segments, such as yoghurt based potions, enema regimens, cell injections, magnetic devices, skin creams, herbal elixirs, glandular extracts, hormonal therapies, vitamin supplements, fad diets and exercise programmes. These products offer anti-oxidants to neutralize oxygen-free radicals; chelators to bind heavy metal ions such as copper and iron; dehydroepiandrosterone to rejuvenate the immune system, improve brain function and relieve stress; growth hormone to increase muscle mass and function; retinoic acid to decrease skin wrinkling, and many more. The grandeur of promises being made have been strongly objected of late by the scientific community due to the lack of experimental and clinical data to support effectiveness of the drugs and especially their high side effects.
Karin Knorr Cetina (page S76 )  cite the issue of consumer exploitation on anti ageing as a segment shrouded with an aura of science. “The use of human frailty for commercial exploitation is also singled out as a deplorable characteristic of the present-day anti-ageing medicines and market” as quoted from works tabled by McConnel & Turner. 
1881 onwards Gerontology found itself being investigated concertedly by nations. (Juengst et al 2003) categorise mainly three parts or directions being followed by  research work on ageing, mainly “compressed morbidity”, decelerated ageing” and “arrested ageing”.
Compressed Morbidity aims at preventing old age related disease, a paradigm relating to intervention in ageing processes at the molecular level to slow the process down. This desire or thought relates thus to life span increase. It is also the most fundamental or conventional one.
Decelerated ageing aims to slow down all fundamental cellular processes of the human body so as to raise the average life span and life expectancy levels overall.
Arrested ageing the most ambitious of all seeks to cure ageing by separating and doing away with all the remnants of damage caused by metabolic processes so as to be able to constantly maintain the vitality and bodily functions.
While the US and France have planned studies on ageing and further research on compressed morbidity approach, basic science has already established that life is a form of metabolism and has its own set of causes and effects, waste effects, lay byes.
These waste products accumulate to degenerate the form physiologically and biologically, slowly weaken and then die. These changes are the main course of research by modern life scientists with focus on how to control the damage caused by these side effects of life that cause ageing.
Mauron, Bruce, McConnel & Turner, in their study on anti aging make an observation on the intended life extension seeking projects that their consequence would result in “ life of the poor remaining 'short and brutish', while the rich could look forward to an extended enjoyment of their privileges.”
Authors such as Halldor Stefansson have argued that, contrary to the wear and tear of inanimate objects, aging in higher organisms is not primarily the result of damage to irreplaceable body parts. Certainly, molecules and cells can suffer from damage akin to wear and tear. Complex biological systems are dynamic and have the ability to repair and regenerate their damaged components. Even for components that cannot be replaced, like mammalian teeth, their degeneration can be seen not just as mechanical senescence but as limitations of the genetic program. There are differences in interpretation of aging changes which influence the way different researchers interpret the essence of aging; as discussed elsewhere, some authors see aging as genetic in nature while others see it as a build-up of damage counteracted by genetically-regulated mechanisms. Nonetheless, it is clear now that aging has a strong genetic component and it is not merely wear and tear.
At present, it appears that the only way of significantly extending human lifespan is with
Caloric restriction. However, there are a number of factors, which seemingly can improve
lifespan. Since ancient times, humans have been concerned with developing and preserving youthful
vigor, stopping the running age clock, and extending lifespan. Today there is a great progress in
understanding the aging process in attempt to delay it. Harmone replacement therapy (HRT) has emerged as the new science and therapy for many disease preventions including ageing. The therapy entails using
popular and easily obtainable hormones: estradiol, testosterone, DHEA, thyroid hormone,
melatonin, growth hormone, and progesterone to control or regulate harmone levels in the body which further impact the risk of diseases such as cardiac,cancer,process of ageing etc. Many of the benefits of using these hormones are equivocal thus far, but we are seeing an increasing number of studies which, at least, recommend these hormones as viable therapies to slow down the aging process, to stop the development of agerelated diseases, and to stay vital and fit in the second half of life.

In the Indian context life extensions have been claimed by many gurus and yogis who underwent rigourous penance and meditation and attained a higher form of existence with slowed metabolism and control over aging. These ascetics were known to eat or drink almost neglible and even control their breathing to slow down the demands of the body and impact longevity. The concept although stemming out of spiritual realms has it’s roots embedded in the very scientific principle of slowing down the metabolic rate of the body thereby preserving the telomeres from getting stripped faster.
By adopting a more practical and do able approach to extension of life spans, meditational practices, organic eating without a coat of insecticide sprays, abstinence from life shortening vices such as smoking and drinking and leading a simple stress free existence, we have a better chance of surviving longer and see the sun shine on our eightees and ninetees and on our progeny too.

The quest for immortality however shall continue within our curious minds as we remain unquenched. As King Crimson says it “ confusion will be my epitaph, as I crawl, cracked and broken.”
As the great rock kings The Rolling Stones sum it all up aptly in their song “ Time waits for no one and it won’t wait for me.”
#Extracts #HeartDisease #Atherosclerosis #alternateMedicine #herbs #cholesterol #BlockedArteries #ginger #garlic #appleciderBenefits #angioplasty #bloodpressure #Lemon #Antioxidants

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Friday 20 May 2016

Whey Proteins- The way to go

Whey is a protein, a mixture of globular proteins isolated from whey, the liquid material created as a by-product of cheese production. Milk contains two primary sources of protein, the caseins and whey. After processing occurs, the caseins are the proteins responsible for making curds, while whey remains in the shape of a liquid.
Whey protein exists in 4 types - concentrate (WPC), isolate (WPI), hydrolysate (WPH) and Native Whey. Concentrates are little low on fat content  and cholesterol  and higher levels of bioactive compounds and carbohydrates. Isolates are usually lower in bio activated compounds as well — they are 90%+ protein by weight. Like whey protein concentrates, whey protein isolates are mild to slightly milky in taste. Hydrolysates are whey proteins that are predigested and partially hydrolyzed for the purpose of easier metabolizing, but their cost is generally higher. Native whey protein is the purest form of whey protein, extracted from skim milk and not as a by product of cheese production.

Whey, essentially a protein complex, is a modern day nutrient and food, with lots of health giving and curing properties. Whey’s ingredients include lactoferrin, betalactoglobulin,alpha-lactalbumin, glycomacropeptide, and immunoglobulins. These exhibit a plethora of immune-enhancing properties. Also whey is capable to act as an antioxidant, antihypertensive,antitumor, hypolipidemic, antiviral,antibacterial, and chelating agent. The property of whey to be able to intracellularly convert amino acid cysteine to glutathione, a potent intracellular antioxidant gives it the name of a healer.
Numerous clinical trials vouch for the healing or curing properties of Whey for multiple diseases such as cancer, HIV, hepatitis B, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and as an antimicrobial agent and an infant colic and immune builder. Whey protein is also useful as a performance enhancer in exercise.
Milk constituents have become functional foods having a noticeable impact on health. Whey, a by-product of cheese and curd manufacturing, is a popular dietary protein supplement purported to provide antimicrobial activity, immune modulation, improved muscle  strength and body composition, and to prevent cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
Processes such as microfiltration, reverse osmosis, and ion-exchange,have resulted in development of several different finished whey products.
Each whey product varies in the amount of protein, carbohydrates, immunoglobulins, lactose, minerals, and fat in the finished product which determine its category according to the application desired out of it.
Whey needs to be evaluated here to understand briefly what Whey is made up of.  First of all it has sufficient amounts of Amino Acids and in higher concentrations than vegetables or soy or corn which are the other sources of proteins, specifically leucine, important for tissue growth and repair. Leucine has been identified as a key amino acid in protein metabolism.
Whey proteins are rich in sulfur containing amino acids cysteine and methionine. With a high concentration of these amino acids, immune function is enhanced through intracellular conversion to glutathione.
Lactoferrin, an iron-binding glycoprotein, is a non-enzymatic antioxidant found in whey. However, the concentration in most commercial whey protein powders is only 0.35-2.0 percent of total proteins.
An immunoglobulin (Ig) is an antibody or gamma-globulin. There are five classes of antibodies – IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM. IgG constitutes approximately 75 percent of the antibodies in an adult.
Beta-Lactoglobulin represents approximately half of the total protein in bovine whey, which has the potential to modulate lymphatic responses.
Alpha-Lactalbumin alpha-Lactalbumin is one of the main proteins found in human and bovine milk. It comprises approximately 20-25 percent of whey proteins and contains a wide variety of amino acids, including a readily available supply of essential and branched chain amino acids.  Lactoperoxidase Whey contains many types of enzymes, including hydrolases, transferases, lyases, proteases,and lipases. Capable of destrying many bacteria.
Glycomacropeptide (GMP) is also referred to as casein macropeptide. GMP is a protein
present in whey at 10-15 percent
 and is a source of essential amino acids .
Whey protein has been clinically studied of late although with limited trials to date on it’s various effects on a host of health conditions, from cancer to cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.It has been found useful in the treatment and regulation of many critical diseases and syndromes, some of which are briefly touched upon here.
Cancer- In a study published by Keri Marshall, ND MS, clinical trials on tumour subjects on various stages of malignancies have indicated that Whey protein concentrates are effective in the prevention and treatment  of cancer. Glutathione stimulation is thought to be the primary immune-modulating mechanism. The amino acid precursors to glutathione available in whey are thought to increase  glutathione concentration in relevant tissues and stimulate immunity.
Some researchers also believe the iron-binding capacity of whey may also contribute to anticancer potential, as iron may act as a mutagenic agent causing oxidative damage to tissues.  
In a recent clinical trial, 20 patients with stage IV malignancies (one bladder, five breast, two prostate, one neuroblastoma, one ovarian, one gastric, three colon, one mesothelioma, two lymphoma,two non-small cell lung, and one osteosarcoma) received a combination of 40 g/day nondenatured whey protein concentrate. After six months there were 16 survivors, all of whom had significantly higher NK function and higher mean haemoglobin and hematocrit levels. All patients noted having an improved quality of life during the course of the study.
Hepatitis Whey proteins affect patients with Hepatitis B or C. It hs been clinically seen through open and closed clinical studies that whey subjects responded better to controlling the disease.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Patients with HIV have Glutathione deficiency . Therefore to increase cysteine, and ultimately glutathione, several studies have been conducted on the use of whey proteins in HIV-positive individuals. Both studies note an improvement in quality of life with increased exercise and whey protein intake.
Antimicrobial Lactoferrin in the whey helps redue infection against many viruses including E coli and increase the immunity to fight off invasions.

Cardiovascular Disease CVD It has been established beyond doubt in science that high fat intake increases the risk of CVD, which is also is linked to a number of other factors, such as age, genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and alcohol intake, quality of dietary fat must be taken into consideration.
Several studies have found milk intake and milk products lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of hypertension, significantly impacting HDLs to increase and triglycerides to decrease thereby creating an ideal environment in prevention of CVD.
Exercise Whey protein supplements, including purified alpha-lactalbumin liquids, having high protein and BCAAs content help enhance performance and tolerance levels.
Obesity a serious problem the world over is being tackled with whey, thought to be an attractive source of dietary protein. Whey protein isolates can be as high as 95-percent protein, after the removal of fat and lactose, and contain valuable minerals and vitamins. Whey has made a significant commercial impact in the weight-loss industry for its protein content alone. The essential and non-essential amino acids in whey act as substrates for protein synthesis and may improve body mass index in individuals participating in exercise programs.
Osteoporosis- Milk has been proposed as a nutritional food that aids in the prevention of osteoporosis due to its bio available calcium content. Milk basic protein (MBP), a component of whey, has the ability to stimulate proliferation and differentiation of osteoblastic cells as well as suppress bone resorption. Similarly whey helps in repair of Gastrointestinal lesions and controlling disorders.
Building Muscle Tissue- Protein powder is a favourite supplement of muscle building regimens with high-quality protein. Shakes are consumed by athletes and sports drinks are galore. The modern day concepts rely heavily on this trait of protein supplementation on which the gym and body building industry thrives. However, is is advised to consume the supplement according to need and in moderation and under medical advise and supervision.
Basic Knowledge on whey- There are various types of protein powders and ideal choice has to be arrived at by each user. Choice should not be based on “promises” made in an advertisement or packaging, product or label. All Products advertise on their benefits on labels and packaging such as undenatured whey protein which for example is next to impossible as manufacturing laws require it to be pasteurized. This may rob the product of it’s effective ingredient however we need to have basic knowledge of whey protein so that we can differentiate.
Similarly cold filtered protein powder on labels could be mythical as the actual filtering process that concentrates the whey into the final percentage of protein (typically +80%) has nothing to do with the fact that most manufacturers who “cold filter” their whey are still flash pasteurizing it at the highest possible temperature beforehand. Why? Because it only takes fifteen seconds to flash pasteurize whey and it takes fifteen minutes to pasteurize it at the lowest heat levels. So you can produce more whey if you only take 1/60th of the time at this stage of processing.
Products may exhibit that they are 100% hydrolyzed where as if that is the case powder would be inedible as broken down (hydrolyzed) protein will not be bound together. The immunoglobulin is bound to the fat globule and as such fat stripped protein may be deficient in it’s properties.

Protein bars sometimes may be under-dosing the protein and overstate the amount on the label. Although powders are better, they're still under-dosed in a lot of cases. They may contain carbohydrates far in excess of what the label states.
Most protein powder comes from a very few manufacturers who source it from the same regions and with same raring techniques which are obviously commercially driven processes. Products may be in thousands boasting a plethora of unique properties but sourcing is almost uniformly same for all commercial brands.
A US Consumer Report July 2010 Article indicated the most popular brands of whey protein in the US had high concentrations of heavy metals including lead, arsenic, and cadmium which can cause permanent damage to the nervous system, kidney, and promote cancer when accumulated in high concentrations.

Consuming the required amount only and not excessively is important and a doctor is the best one to establish that. Excessive amounts can lead to weight gain, kidney problems and increased cholesterol, according to the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The University of California Los Angeles reports that the human body can absorb and utilize a maximum of 0.91 g of protein per pound of body weight per day. Similarly McKinley Health Center in the US recommends 20 g to 25 g of protein powder per day for the average active adult.


Side Effects of Whey Protein- Those building muscle could gain weight with using whey as a supplement as it has added sugars and carbohydrates or some may even have fat. Since all this comes in liquid form intake it may not satisfy the solid meal deficiency resulting in eating more than required which could increase body weight. Especially builder protein or gainer protein for lean bodies is to be avoided for normal physiques and hence it is important that labels are read carefully before usage to understand the body type for which product is designed.
Whey protein can worsen a kidney stone health condition and even cause them although this is not conclusively proven. Whey protein eaters are advised to add a sufficient fibre cntent to their diet.
It is therefore very important that a normal balanced whey consumption regimen is adopted which contains fat and carbohydrates as well, consumed alongwith a normal meal diet. Having too much of protein shakes or a heavy protein imbalance can cause upset bowels and irritable digestive tract.
Weak protein digesting people can switch to other proteins asuch as rice, soy and hemp which do not contain lactose and are easily digestible.
In some cases people with genetic history of gout have been associated with increased symptoms of the disease with whey protein intake. In case amino acids are not digested or used up, the body organs which filter them out such as the liver and kidneys could be put under tremendous pressure resulting in organ damage. It is therefore advisable not to exceed daily prescribed intake of protein both in powder or shake form. Protein shakes can be high in calories, so if you're not exercising, they can contribute to weight gain. Whey is a natural by-product of cow’s milk, and, in powdered form, one of the most popular fitness supplements available. There’s nothing inherently risky about whey protein by itself, but following a diet that’s very high in protein for an extended period of time entails risks, especially if you’re not trying to build muscle. Before you make whey a regular part of your eating plan, get the go-ahead from your doctor.
As a sports drink protein supplements should be had in the range 0.5-0.7.5 grams of protein per pound body weight daily for casual exercise cases and 0.6-0.9 grams per pound of body weight in case of professional athletes.
The active precursor in amino acids glutathione can also be increased by following a regular exercise regimen and eating fresh fruits and vegetables although green vegetables when cooked almost entirely loose the precursor property.
Chemicals, toxins and sugar also decrease glutathione levels rapidly.
Milk thistle herb is a rich source of silymarin which may prevent glutathione depletion in the liver.
Curcumin a concentrated form or extract of turmeric is also known to increase glutathione levels.
All in all our own sagacity is more important as to what we require and desire as sometimes some compelling desires can be time and health wasters.
Disclaimer: Information contained in this write up is for education and awareness purposes only and for non commercial use. It is not to be used as a medical advice or prescription. Readers desiring consumption of whey must consult their medical practitioner before consumption.

Some of the information or content herein including are extracted from articles of various authors and researchers, including University of Maryland Health Centre and studies published by Keri Marshall, ND MS. 

Wednesday 13 April 2016

Eye to Eye – No cosmetic approach shall repair them!



Eyes are the most important constituents of the face. Not only do they define overall beauty and personality of the being but also express emotions and moods. They enable us to see the world and everything around us. Unfortunately they don’t come as spares in our tool kits.
Accentuating the eyes with mascara, eye shadow, Kajal or Kohl and liner to make them look bigger is a trait every woman has. However not so many are meticulous when it comes to wiping these accentuators off in the evening, carefully following the instructions for removal and following them by the book. This is essential because overnight applications of liners,kajal and mascara can result into blocking the tear ducts causing dry eyes or in some cases even damage the cornea by penetrating into the eyes from the corners. In general longer applications of foreign material on delicate areas such as the eyes can cause irritation, infection and allergies or cause blepharitis. In general various adverse effects may occur in the form of acute toxicity, percutaneous absorption, skin irritation, eye irritation, skin sensitization and photosensitization, subchronic toxicity, mutagenicity/ genotoxicity, and phototoxicity/photoirritation.

Generally eye cosmetics are friendly and safe to use. The products list out the ingredients on the packaging and label although more diligently in the US and developed countries and not so much in India due to lax laws and implementations. Cosmetic products generally come in small packs making reading even more difficult. Careful buying of cosmetics needs to be done, avoiding products which have mercury, lead and parabens which are extremely harmful and hazardous. Safe buying is to be adopted which includes branded products and in case of any problems during application you need to discard the product. Using products beyond their validity and keeping them for longer durations since all are expensive products can result into serious eye problems. In such cases bacteria and fungi grow within the gels and liquids which when applied shift their home into our eyes causing havoc. Similarly cosmetics application and removal methods are also as important, for example application on the inner lining of the lid shall ensure inner seepage causing damage to the eyes.
Another option to circumvent the problem of chemicals in eye products is to try out natural herb based products which are authentic although no product whether herbal or otherwise should be used beyond expiry.
Dr. Louise A.Sclafani, OD, FAAO has some candid observations listed on www.healio.com. According to him, “As eye care professionals we should not avoid the topic of cosmetics and lid hygiene because we are afraid of insulting our patients because if we don’t comment on what we see when they are being tested, they assume that all is well.” He further suggests introducing eye make up one by one into routine so that effects and reactions of each can be clearly noticed. He strongly suggests that eye cosmetic make up should never be shared with anyone no matter how intimate as this results in communication of eye infections. He further says,” do not top off mascara with water or be too aggressive on eye lashes with curlers which can cause damage to delicate follicles and respect the eye mucosal line as the meibomian gland can get blocked, resulting in dry eyes.”
Dr. Louise A.Sclafani recommends removal of make up daily before sleeping usually with soap and water, which she says may not be always effective. She recommends using branded soft lid and eye scrubs for removal and even baby oil which is an amazing application for the job in hand.
“For soft contact lens wearers, patients should put on makeup after putting in their soft contact lenses. For gas-permeable lens wears, the opposite is true,” Dr. Sclafani said.
Make up residue or particles tend to enter the eye and disrupt the tear film, causing discomfort and irritation. This is since cosmetics are applied very near to the ocular surface or on the lid margins, giving them ample opportunity to enter the eyes due to rubbing or other reasons. These residual foreign bodies tend to stick on the tear film or even on the surface of contact lenses or cornea, disrupting the tear film stability and function.
Meibomian gland ducts thicken and get keratinized due to prolonged exposure to retinoid which is an ingredient of anti aging and acne products. It causes degeneration and necrosis of meibomian gland acinar cells, peri-acinar fibrosis and decreased lipid content of meibomian tissue.  Similarly US FDA approved Latisse (Allergan) applied on the eyelashes for hypotrichosis a condition of abnormal hair patterns - predominantly loss or reduction was found to be responsible for increased frequency of conjunctival eyelid hyperaemia which is excessive supply of blood to the eye lids also called engorgement. 
The most feared adverse effect of mascaras is that of infection, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa corneal infections, which can permanently destroy visual acuity, due to multiple reuses of applicator and reinsertions into the tube between uses.
Some south Asian, middle eastern countries and parts of Africa are still using old and outdated formulations which include ingredients in cosmetic products suchas  lead-compounds and preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride, thimerosol and chlorhexidine. All products containing such heavy metal or compounds are extremely harmful and need to be avoided at all costs.
Products linked with cosmetics have been put to scrutiny and analysis for rate of formation of bacteria and contamination causing organisms and a related study found 30% products affected after 90 days. Once the product has been opened and if being used by more than one user, it is a potential bacteria rearing place. Although preservatives slow bacteria formation they are short spanned and their effectivity diminishes over a period of time.
Contact lens users need to take precautions of cosmetic application in such a way that the lens surface remains free of residual accumulation which not only will bllurr vision but also cause irritation and infection. For users wearing lens regularly, daily disposable lens are recommended as they are more hygienic and do not have to undergo daily cleaning with solutions which is not foolproof if not done properly.
Therefore it is important that knowhow on the use of cosmetics is spread by opticians, cosmetic retailers and manufacturers on the product itself. Patients coming for medical treatment need to be educated on the cause of their disease without any prejudices.Users must be properly told as to where all cosmetics are not to be applied in the eye areas.
The US government on it’s official FDA website warns users of the dangers of using substandard or persistetnt use of Kohl or Kajal as it may contain lead and cause lead poisoning. This is since kohl is made up of lead ( lead sulphide) and some brands may contain excessive percentage of lead apart from other ingredients used in it’s commercial manufacture such as aluminum, antimony, carbon, iron, and zinc compounds, as well as camphor and menthol.
Lead poisoning or exposure to excessive amounts of lead in the environment is particularly harmful for children as they can absorb lead from their surroundings. It can cause a host of diseases such as anemia (iron deficiency), kidney related diseases and neurological disorders. Prolonged exposure to lead can impair learning capability and behavioural patterns.
India which is a major producer of kohl needs to be particularly careful as culturally kohl is used to accentuate children’s eyes and kohl is widely used by all communities both in rural and urban India. It needs to be mentioned here that US FDA had banned kohl or it’s use as a commercially available cosmetic or it’s manufacture.
From a dermatologist’s point of view, cosmetics may be grouped as: (a) skin-care cosmetics (cleansing agents, moisturizing agents, etc.), (b) hair-care cosmetics (shampoos, hair colorants, styling agents, etc.), (c) face-care cosmetics (facial foundations, powders, eye shadows, mascara, lipsticks, etc.), (d) nail-care cosmetics (nail varnishes, paint removers, etc.), (e) fragrance products (deodorants, aftershaves, perfumes, etc.), and (f) ultraviolet (UV) light screening preparations. Skin cleansing agents remain on the body for a very short period of time and rarely cause significant adverse reactions, however, perfume and others constituents may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Moisturizers increase the hygroscopic properties of the skin; however, high concentration of these substances may cause irritation and exfoliation.
Dr. P. K. Nigam, Professor and Head, Department of Dermatology and STD, Pt. J. N. M. Medical College, Raipur in a study on effects of cosmetics on skin and body parts and organs states- Ochronosis is a common adverse effect of HQ (skin lightening/depigmenting agents, hydroquinone) characterized by progressive darkening of the area to which the cream containing high concentrations of HQ is applied for many years. ëBlack hennaí tattoo is a chemical stain due to p-phenylenediamine (PPD), in the form of commercial hair dye mixed into the henna paste. Addition of this artificial dye stains the skin in much shorter duration, an hour or less. Adverse reactions to PPD can include stinging sensations, with an erythematous rash, swelling, blisters, and surface oozing. There have been several reports in the literature of immediate allergic (and also anaphylactic) reactions on using henna dyes. Most cases have sneezing, runny nose, cough, and shortness of breath instead of skin reactions. Adverse effects to sun-screening agents may result in irritant, allergic, phototoxic, or photoallergic reactions, and caused not only by the active constituents but also by the additives such as fragrances and stabilizers. Benzophenones are probably the most common sensitizers, while dibenzoylmethanes, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), and cinnamates may cause photoallergic dermatitis.[8] The allergic reactions associated with deodorants/antiperspirants and fragrances are usually caused by fragrance or other ingredients. Fragrance can enter the body through lungs, airways, skin, ingestion, and via pathways from the nose directly to the brain and can cause headaches, irritation to eyes, nose, and throat, dizziness, fatigue, forgetfulness, and other symptoms. Fragrance is the number one cause of skin allergic reactions to cosmetics. As much as 15% of the general population may find fragrance a lower airway irritant and as much as 10% of the general population may have skin allergy to fragrance. Fragrance in the air can cause airborne contact dermatitis. Coumarin, methyl eugenol, and others are suspected carcinogens. Some phthalates are suspected hormone disrupters.
 Shampoos and conditioners have only a brief contact with the skin and are not a common cause of cutaneous irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. However, eye irritation can be a problem. Possible sensitizers in shampoos include formalin, parabens, hexachlorophene, triclosan, and fragrances. Matting of scalp hair is most commonly a sudden, usually irreversible, tangling of scalp hair resulting from shampooing.
 Hair straightening (relaxing) with pressing oils and heated metal combs or round tongs may be associated with hair-shaft breakage and scarring alopecia. Hair removal techniques may partially account for allergic and photoallergic reactions. The adverse effects of shaving include skin irritation, cuts in the skin, ingrown hair (pseudofolliculitis), etc. The active ingredients in hair bleaches are hydrogen peroxide solutions that oxidize melanin to a lighter colour.
The adverse reactions may occur to one of the primary constituents of the cosmetic formulation or contamination or procedural misconduct.

Cosmetics and personal-care products may contain ingredients whose safety is unclear or which are known to pose health risks. Adequate testing or research has not been done on chemical combinations which are being used. Notwithstanding the commercial nature of issue, it is advisable to be prudent in choice, application and duration of use of all such products. Necessary precautions and routines need to be adhered to and most of all awareness needs to be spread around amongst whatever community groups one has access to. It is seldom that an occurance least expected happens despite all non possibilities however we should never extend our luck too far!

Monday 28 December 2015

Health Care Burden in India-Neck breaking

Health Care is a difficult proposition in India. The agony of having to visit a hospital not withstanding, the ridiculous costs which ensue once securely on hospital bed is a bewildering experience.
The structure of health care sector consists of independent, privately-run hospital and health care centers.Private health care centers accounts for the major share. Nearly 63% of the total spend is accounted by the private health care sector.
Foreigners visiting india as medical tourists may be fine because for them it is still cheaper services but for the Indian middle and lower class it is simply not affordable.
Population ageing is increasing rapidly in India which means more and more rush at the hospital gates. India a country with a large population has a large number of people now aged 60 years or more. The 60+ age group has increased three times in the last 50 years and continues to do so.
Census 2001 concluded that older people were 7.7% of the total population, which increased to 8.14% in census 2011. In sheer numbers the population over 60 years in  2021 shall be 133.32 million. The increases in the elderly population are the result of changing fertility and mortality regimes over the last 40-50 years. Not only old age but lifestyle-related chronic diseases resulting from urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, changing diets, rising obesity levels, and widespread availability of tobacco products all are adding upto the rush.

There is a dual burden of disease to tackle. Urban India is witnessing a surge to the top in terms of incidence of Lifestyle related diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, COPD etc and the Urban Poor and Rural India are struggling with Communicable Diseases such as tuberculosis, typhoid, dysentery etc. Rural India is also seeing a higher occurrence of Non-Communicable Life-style related diseases. Lack of Infrastructure and Manpower especially in rural areas adds to the chaos.
The pressure of sheer numbers is showing on the hospitals too. India is just not equipped enough to manage patient influx both in the government and private hospitals. The shortage of qualified medical professionals is another burning issue.
India’s ratio of 0.7 doctors and 1.5 nurses per 1,000 people is significantly lower than the WHO average of 2.5 doctors and 3.5 nurses per 1,000 people. Paramedical staff is also short on supply. Basically trained medical HR base falls far short of the requirement.
In case you want to get your patient admitted in a PGIMER or an AIMS the waiting is huge and you have to be a string puller to get accommodation. It is half the battle won. Even the influential people need to be in queue as their number is also staggering.
Roughly 8% of older Indians are confined to their home or bed. The proportion of such immobile or home bound people rose with age to 27% after the age of 80 years. However, very little effort has been made to develop a model of health and social care to take care of the patients. Lack of vision and responsibility has created a void. 
Institutions such as Helpage India are dots in the ocean trying to provide nursing and medical care by reaching the sick both in urban and rural areas on mobile units which in itself is challenging.
On-site services offer doctor consultation, diagnosis and detection/testing,                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         medicines and home visits. Even specialist doctors are available. Team includes doctor, pharmacist, paramedic and patient facilitator, co ordinated by a qualified social worker.

Costs - Elderly patients who are unwell consume 13% of the family income annually on health including medicines. 65 years and above consume 21%. Even as India boasts of being the largest manufacturer of generic prescriptive drugs, still the healthcare expenses work out heavy.
The rate of increase of cost of healthcare has been a steady double the pace of growth or inflation in general. Increased house hold out of pocket expenditure on health has become the 2nd major cause of indebtedness in rural population, next to agriculture.

 Total health care spending is projected to rise at an annual rate of over 12 percent, from an estimated $96.3 billion in 2013 to $195.7 billion in 2018.
The average hospitalization cost in India is INR 24500 in urban and 15000 in Rural areas calculated for the year 2014.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) amongst old people are the main culprit causing disability and a pocket drain. Cancer treatment, joint replacements, heart surgery, neurosurgical procedures, dental implants, kidney dialyses or transplants are some of the richer man’s game only.
Highest hospitalization expenses incurred are in places such as Delhi INR 34750 with 45% people using public and 55% private hospitals. Assam tops the list with hospitalization expenses at INR 47050 with 51.5% using public and 48.5% private hospitals. States such as UP,Haryana,Madhya Pradeh and Karnataka are just little behind Delhi figures.
The high costs of healthcare also acts as a deterrent for poor people to visit medical centres with alacrity with such delays leading to further complicating the health of people. In urban India even basic
Heart surgeries can cost anywhere between 1.5 lacs to 3.00 lacs and with high medical cost inflation it could double in 5-6 years. India as a topper in heart ailment globally has a huge heart cost to deal with.

However Healthcare still remains low as an expenditure item in India. Expenses are just 4.5% of GDP a figure much lower than USA 15.70% of GDP and UK 8.2% .

The scenario is tailor made for foreign direct investment to flow in which is in fact picking up rapidly. In healthcare FDI is allowed upto 100%. There is a tax holiday for 5 years for hospitals springing up in rural areas. The sector will be bolstered with capital
investments, technology tie-ups, and collaborative ventures across various segments, including diagnostics, medical equipment, hospitals, and education and training.

Healthcare thus is already one the fastest growing service sector in India.

Still India’s public health care system remains bad. The whole map is characteristic of  under funded and overcrowded hospitals, clinics and inadequate rural coverage. Reduced funding by the Indian Government has been attributed to in excusable failures of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MHFW) to exhaust its annual fund allocation despite increasing demand.

In such a situation urban Indians are adopting to health insurance or plans. These options offer cashless facilities against hospitalization and treatment including 30 critical illnesses and 80 surgical procedures, covering a large spectre of private and well equipped medical facilities.

The private sector has evolved a multi-dimensional approach to increase accessibility and penetration. It is tackling the issue of Lifestyle related diseases with the development of high-end tertiary care facilities. Also new delivery models such as Day-care centres, single specialty hospitals, end-of-life care centres, etc. have emerged.
The Public Sector is keen to continue to encourage private investment in the healthcare sector11 and is now developing Public – Private Partnerships.
Both sectors have also undertaken initiatives to improve functional efficiencies in the form of
Accreditations, Clinical research, outsourcing of non-core areas, increased penetration of healthcare
insurance and third party payers.


Silver Lining- Mass media has emerged as a  great medium to educate and spread awareness on health fitness and disease awareness. Current generation is much more aware and health conscious and wants to avoid medical situations at all costs perhaps the only way to save on costs.

People by and large have been affected by the health wave and practices such as Yoga, Alternate medicine such as naturopathy, Ayurvedic medication such as herbs and extracts, nutrition in foods, health supplements and life style changes have suddenly assumed meaning and visibility.

Morning parks are much fuller than previously or is it because of the sheer number game which India enjoys and sulks in at the same time.

There is greater stress on public hygiene and sanitation. The Government is also running a project to this effect and with fervour. Clean the Ganga type of projects also share a common objective apart from ecological ones. All such projects if implemented on ground can bring about radical changes in atleast the communicable disease incidence in rural and semi urban areas, although there is no internationally comparable metro in India as well in terms of cleanliness and infrastructure.

The effect of of all health sector reforms have improved the overall scenario from dismal to hopeful.
Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs) increased from 22,699 in 2006 to 24 448, Sub Centres (SCs) from 146,026 to 151 684 and Community Health Centres (CHCs) from 3910 to 5187 in
2013. Number of government hospitals and beds have not shown much advances in numbers except in 2012.
Average coverage of rural population by Sub Centres is 5,624 against the standard of 3,000-5,000, by PHCs 34,876 against the standard of 20,000-30,000 and by CHCs 173,235 against the standard of 80,000-120,000 indicating that at least there are enough health care centres to serve the population although they are grossly uneven in distribution.

International models and practices need to be adopted to increase throughput of the whole medical machinery, be it at any level. India has a complex structure of government institutions right from planning to implementation stage. The scenario needs to be that of adoption of internationally successful models and protocols rather than create magic out of a box with overnight fixes.

It is baffling as to why nothing affects us until it sticks in our throats like cancer.


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