Category: body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis

10 facts to know about the MTHFR gene 🙌

by drjurisharma, posted in Blog, body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, healing, health, life, MTHFR, gene mutations, genetic mutations,, wellness
  1. MTHFR, Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, is an enzyme found in human chromosome 1,located exactly in the short arm. It plays a significant role in folate and homocysteine (amino acid) metabolism. Studies have shown that individuals with MTHFR deficiencies can have hyperhomocysteinemia
    with homocystinuria.
  2. Research in the past decades has shown that this enzyme plays a key role in homocysteine metabolism. The deficiency of this enzyme is an inborn error of folate metabolism, which is quite
    rare. Yet, several studies have identified this variant as the most common cause of
    hyperhomocysteinemia and a risk factor for many disorders connected to defective homocysteine
    metabolism.

3.Genetic deficiency of MTHFR is rare, but around 50 cases have already been identified worldwide. Symptoms in such individuals are seizures, developmental delay, neurological impairment, gait dysfunction, and a very high level of homocysteine in urine and plasma. Genetic testing of the gene mutation can be done on a saliva swab and blood sample.

4.Genetic mutations are inherited and acquired from the parents. There are 2 forms of mutations that can occur on the MTHFR gene – C677T and A1298C. If one such variant is present, one is less likely to have health issues but if both variants are present, then the individual is likely to have serious health problems.

Depression

5.Health issues associated with people who have two variants of the MTHFR gene are :
Homocystinuria
Alopecia areata
Spina bifida
High blood pressure
Depression or bipolar disorder
certain cancers
Miscarriages

Pregnancy

6.MTHFR affects pregnancy: Research has shown a link between MTHFR gene variants related to repeated miscarriages. It is important to test for MTHFR gene mutation in women who have suffered unexplained recurrent miscarriages or delivered babies with neural tube defects. Extra folate supplementation and blood thinning administration can be useful to prevent such miscarriages.

7.Diagnosis of MTHFR variant cases is done by testing blood samples and saliva swabs in individuals with a very high level of homocysteine in urine and plasma and vitamin deficiencies of folate, choline, vitamin B12, B6 and riboflavin. MTHFR mutation variant people may not have health issues and can be treated by preventive measures of supplementation of folate and vitamin B and lifestyle changes like a nutritious balanced diet, sleep, exercise and avoiding smoking.

Down’s syndrome

8.Babies and children born with MTHFR mutation variants may present with symptoms within the first year of birth. Such children may have ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), autism, impairment of sleep, mood disorder, hyperhomocysteinemia, vitamin, folate deficiency, pediatric stroke, spina bifida and Down’s syndrome.

9.Having gene variants is common in the human population. This particular MTHFR variant gene is common in some ethnicities like in Hispanic individuals. Hispanic races have commonly the MTHFR C677T variant. People with such variants are able to process all types of folate. Research shows that 400mcg of folic acid daily can raise the blood folate level irrespective of whether you are MTHFR genotype.

10.Folate and vitamin B are naturally found in many food sources which should definitely be part of the daily diet. Legumes, leafy greens, citrus fruits, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, bananas, avocados and nuts are rich in folate and should be consumed regularly to have normal levels of folate and promote healthy cell division irrespective of gene mutations.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

New Year wishes, 2025 🙌

by drjurisharma, posted in body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, celebration, healing, health, life, New year, 2025, peace, happiness, love, joy, anger,, New Year, wishes, health, healing, happiness, positivity, fitness, self healing, wellness
‘ Let your hopes, not your hurts shape your future’ Martin Luther King, Jr

It’s time to letting go of whatever that give us pain, hurt, sadness, anger, regrets and guilt as the year comes to an end. 

Grateful that another 365 days are approaching to renew ourselves with positive energy, change, optimism and peace which may uplift us in this life’s journey. 

Wishing to all my lovely, fellow bloggers, may this New Year 2025 bring immense happiness, peace and favorableness to all of us.

Have a wonderful and blessed year ahead.

Peace and love 🙏

10 facts to know about Ghee (clarified butter) 🙌

by drjurisharma, posted in Antioxidant,anti inflammatory, immune boosting, anti cancer, body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, brain, butter,dairy,inflammatory,disease,cancer,gut health,, butyrate, Food, Ghee, gut health, gut bacteria, hormones, Gastrointestinal, GI tract, healing, health, herb, mental health, wellness

Research has shown that Ghee is a powerhouse of anti-oxidants, healthy fats and vitamins. For centuries, it has been used traditionally in Middle Eastern and Indian culinary traditions. In Ayurvedic medicine, it has been used extensively as a remedy for various ailments.

  1. There are various dairy sources of Ghee, such as cows, buffaloes, goats, and camels. But the best source of Ghee is the cow’s ghee depending upon the fatty acid composition. Ghee is a rich source of Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), linoleic acids, omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids and phospholipids. Research has shown that these fatty acids have the most potential benefits of anti-oxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties and are excellent sources of fat for brain health.
  2. According to Ayurvedic literature, the health benefits of Ghee depend on the manufacturing process, the source of dairy from which it was made, age and phase of the ghee. Cow’s ghee has the highest nourishing and health benefits. Buffalo ghee can be a good source of building a physical and muscular physique. Goat’s ghee has respiratory benefits whereas camel’s ghee has digestive properties.
  3. Research says that grass-fed ghee is more nutrient-dense than grain-fed ghee. Cow ghee has different varieties. Garlic grass-fed ghee is a superior quality ghee which has higher therapeutic benefits. Grass-fed Cultured Organic ghee is from grass-fed milk which is of premium quality and has several health benefits. A2 Organic ghee contains A2 protein and is purest in terms of quality which has no traces of GMOs, antibiotics or steroids. Another variety is lime grass-fed ghee which has good taste due to lime flavour.

4.Cognitive health benefit: The most important benefits of ghee are cognitive health, the overall brain wellbeing. Though limited research has been done so far, studies show that SCFA, omega-3 fatty acid, and linoleic acid in ghee show a significant role in improving memory, intellect and brilliance. Ghee helps in the management of diseases like epilepsy, ageing cognitive issues,depression, anxiety and insanity.

5.GI health: SCFAs found in ghee play an important role in enhancing digestive health. Butyrate found in ghee feeds the gut microbiome and enhances the gut immune system, improves digestion, and helps to strengthen intestinal wall integrity. Ghee has been used for centuries to treat abdominal disorders, peptic ulcers and improvement of appetite.

6.Respiratory health: According to Ayurveda, A2 ghee plays a significant role in lowering
symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, sore throat, fever, bleeding disorders and other respiratory issues A2 ghee is combined with herbs like Malabar Nut are used as herbal medicines to heal respiratory issues by Ayurvedic experts. It acts as a natural expectorant in case of colds and coughs.

7.Other ailments where ghee has been used by Ayurvedic Medicine to treat issues like abscesses, boils, liver issues, hernias, vaginal pain and other reproductive problems. It is also used for topical application for a calm relaxing skin massage. In some Ayurvedic cleansing techniques, ghee message is used to release toxins from fatty tissues and treat osteoarthritis, and insomnia.

8.Since ancient times, ghee has been a natural remedy for various issues. It was used as a
natural moisturizer, bath oil for skin, remedy for gums, and teeth when gargling with ghee, to stop nose bleeding, and to treat minor cuts and burns.

9.Butter and ghee have similar fat contents and nutrients. But for people who have problems in the digestion of dairy products, pure ghee is comparatively better as they have no or less quantity of protein than butter.

10.Ghee has been slowly emerging as a healthy cooking choice because of its various nutritional benefits and better absorption of nutrients from foods and vegetables. Recent studies show that ghee is cholesterol-friendly as it can help to increase good cholesterol over bad cholesterol. However, due to its high fat content, it has to be used in moderation. When consuming ghee daily, the person has to undergo regular physical activity and exercise to digest the fat properly and enjoy the benefits. According to health experts, consuming 2-3 teaspoonfuls of ghee can bring overall health benefits and be heart-friendly.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

10 tips of eating healthy🙌

by drjurisharma, posted in body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, detoxification, vegetable,, Fresh, local, produce, healing, health, skin, cancer, anti inflammatory, plant, nature, medicine, herb, wellness

Eating healthy is easier and cheaper… Eating healthy isn’t complicated or fussy. In fact , it is the easiest option if we make it a way of life, a …

10 tips of eating healthy🙌

Butyrate is the latest buzzword! Is it just a hype or the reality? 10 facts 🙌

by drjurisharma, posted in body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, brain, butter,dairy,inflammatory,disease,cancer,gut health,, butyrate, dairy, curd, yogurt, detoxification, vegetable,, Food, gut health, gut bacteria, hormones, Gastrointestinal, GI tract, healing, health, life, Science, wellness
Butter is a rich source of butyrate

1.Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid (SFCA) released during the fermentation of dietary fibres by the gut microbiome. It plays an integral part in supporting gut health and overall well-being. It is an energy source for colonocytes which meet about 70% of their needs. Evidence has shown that this SFCA has tremendous health benefits ranging from immunity support, lowering inflammation, preventing cancers and fighting ageing. Hence, it is the latest buzzword, doing rounds in social media and among advertisers.

2.Recent studies have clearly shown that butyrate plays an important role in both the host and microbial functions in gastrointestinal health. It is a crucial energy source for colonocytes. An optimal level of butyrate promotes and maintains a healthy microbiome level, reduces inflammation, and supports colonocyte functions. It has protective actions against certain intestinal diseases like inflammatory bowel diseases and colon cancer.

3.Butyrate has been shown to prevent the process of inflammation in the gut which can be caused by pathogens, the body’s overreaction (allergic reactions) and oxidative stress. Chronic inflammation in the gut occurs when the gut’s immune system is constantly fighting against these pathogens and free radicals causing the immune health to be weakened. Eating a considerable amount of fibres causes to production of an optimal level of butyrate which helps in protecting against this inflammatory process.

Dietary fiber is a good source of butyrate

4.Studies have shown a great impact of butyrate on obesity. Butyrate is found to lower body weight and decrease lipogenesis in the liver and adipose tissues. It increases fatty acid oxidation and prevents fat accumulation in the body thereby reducing obesity. Butyrate is produced by the fermentation of dietary fibres, so it suppresses the food intake and reduces body weight and fat mass.

5.Animal and cell studies have shown that butyrate increases insulin sensitivity, helps in reducing weight gain, and obesity and promotes weight loss. It helps in maintaining blood sugar levels.

Dairy products

6.Another significant property of butyrate has been shown in research that it promotes cell differentiation. Normally, our cells have the ability to change into any specific type of body cells required like liver cells, heart cells, intestinal cells or blood cells. If the cells are not properly differentiated, then, abnormal growth or tumour appears. Butyrate is found to promote cell differentiation.

7.Studies have shown that butyrate plays an important role in the brain-gut connection. It helps in increasing Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), removes toxic byproducts from the brain and prevents brain fog. It promotes neuroplasticity and improves rapid eye movement sleep by 70%.

8.Butyrate helps to regulate the blood pressure level. Studies show that the level of butyrate inversely corresponds to the blood pressure level. A higher butyrate level gives a lower blood pressure level while low butyrate may lead to the rise of high blood pressure.

Leafy veggies

9.Sources of butyrate are :
Dietary fibres like vegetables like garlic, onion, tomatoes, beans, peas, leafy vegetables, broccoli. Fruits like bananas, apples, pears, kiwis.
Whole grains like brown rice, oats, wheat, barley, rye and pulses, legumes.
Dairy sources like milk, cheese, butter, and ghee.
Others like dark chocolate, seeds, nuts, and seawood.
Butyrate supplements are available in the form of sodium, calcium/magnesium butyrate but need to be used as per supervision as they may interfere with other medication.

10.It is important to know that consuming full-fat dairy products like butter, Ghee, cheese, and milk are rich sources of butyrate. However, consuming these products can cause the risk of elevating the level of cholesterol in the body as they are rich in saturated fatty acids too. Therefore, the risk of cardiovascular diseases and obesity may rise. So, the key point to be noted while consuming these products is having them in moderation along with lots of dietary fibre and plenty of water can benefit and maintain the balance.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

5 facts to know about goosebumps 😨

by drjurisharma, posted in body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, healing, health, mental health, muscle, body, skin, goosebumps, fear, excitement, nervousness, Uncategorized, wellness
  1. What are goosebumps? It may sound weird as though it is related to geese. But there is nothing to do with geese. Actually, it is a sympathetic nervous system reaction where the tiny muscles (arrector pilli muscles) flex the skin causing the hair follicles to stand. In medical terms, it is called horripilation or piloreaction. It is a fight or flight response to the body’s reaction to the state of fear or excitement. It is a physiological response of the body and not, usually a medical issue.
  2. The arrector pilli muscles (APM) are tiny muscles that connect the hair follicles with the skin. Goosebumps occur when these muscles flex and pull the hair follicles upright. Normally in an individual, when goosebumps appear, it can be either in response to cold temperature, fear or a strong emotional reaction. Sometimes, it can be related to medical issues like brain disorders, epilepsy, and keratosis pilloris, a skin disorder.

3.Goosebumps are associated with other symptoms in different situations and medical-related conditions.
For the case of :
*Hypothermia, Cold temperature, along with goosebumps, you may experience shivers, pale skin and the urge to be in a warm place.


*Strong emotional responses like fear, nervousness, excitement, sexual desire, and thrilling response: The body reacts with goosebumps, fasting heart rate, fast breathing, tears, and chill.

*In case of an epileptic seizure, along with goosebumps, there can be other symptoms like a confused state, lips smacking, swallowing, and finger motions. In the case of skin conditions like keratosis pilloris, there may be skin patches.


4.Adrenaline: It is this hormone which the body releases from adrenal glands during a fight or flight response which causes goosebumps. Intense emotional responses cause the body to release adrenaline which in turn stimulates the flexing of the tiny muscles of the hair follicles and causes the skin hair to erect. Often people get goosebumps while watching a horror movie, in nervousness, experiencing stressful events.
Dopamine, another chemical which the brain releases while experiencing pleasurable experiences like listening to a good piece of music, receiving rewards, surprises or awe moments, can cause goosebumps too.


5.Rigor mortis: When a person dies, the ATP, adenosine triphosphate which provides energy to muscles and cells suddenly stops, so the cells die and muscles are stiffened causing rigor mortis. As a result, the arrector pili muscles of the dermis are stiffened too, causing the skin to trigger goosebumps.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

10 facts to know about constipation 👐

by drjurisharma, posted in body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, constipation, bowels, colon, bowel movements, bowel disease, deep fried food, detoxification, vegetable,, emotional health, french fries, gut health, gut bacteria, hormones, Gastrointestinal, GI tract, healing, health, mental health, milk, dairy, curd, yoghurt, muscle, body, Science, stomach, abdomen, intestines, wellness
  1. According to medical terminology, constipation is when a person has irregular bowel movements, usually less than three times a week. Normally, a person with regular bowel movements has stool elimination three times a day to three times, a week. Constipation has been the most common gastrointestinal issue affecting millions of people daily.
  2. Normally, the food passes through the large intestine, and the water is absorbed in the colon while forming the faecal matter or stool. Then, the stool formed in the colon is pushed down to the rectum by muscle contraction. If the muscle contraction in the colon is prolonged, by the time, stool reaches the rectum, more water is absorbed making the stool too hard to pass. Passage of the dry hard stool becomes very difficult causing constipation.
  3. The most common causes of constipation are: Lack of movement, lack of exercise, stress. Lack of fibre in the diet.
    Not drinking enough fluids.
    Changes in dietary habits, pregnancy, traveling, ageing. Medications.
    Irritable bowel syndrome.
    Anal fissure.

4.Common symptoms of constipation:

Pain abdomen.
Painful bowel movements.
Feels uncomfortable or bloated.
Bowel movement less than 3 times a week.

5.Generally, constipation is relieved by switching the diet to more fibrous food, more intake of fluid, and exercise. However, if the person is not relieved of the symptoms despite these above- mentioned measures and maybe, there is a history of blood in stool, episodes are more frequent, then, it is necessary to seek medical attention.
Diagnosing constipation is based on medical history, a physical examination which covers an anorectal examination, barium enema, and colonoscopy.

6.Constipation is usually treated by diet and lifestyle changes.
Lifestyle changes include regular exercise, more intake of fluids in the daytime, giving enough time for daily bowel movements.
Dietary intake of at least 20-30 grams of fiber daily, including whole grains, fruits like bananas, pineapple, papaya, oranges, apples, kiwis, berries and vegetables, is recommended.
Changing the existing medication if any.
If the above measures don’t work, then laxatives are prescribed.

7.Certain risk factors which may lead to constipation:
*Mental health issues: Due to depression and stress-related issues leading to unhealthy diet, irregular meal timing, anti-depression medication, lack of exercise, and eating disorders.
*Old age causes weakening of the muscle lining so sluggish bowel movements.
*Pregnancy causes the bulky uterus to press against the intestinal wall making it harder to defecate.
*Eating lots of refined food, junk food and not eating enough fibre causes hard stool. *Medications like iron pills, antacids, blood pressure medicines, allergy medicines, anti- depressants.
*Diseases: Stroke, paralysis, Parkinson’s disease, diverticulitis, multiple sclerosis, irritable bowel disease, colon cancer.

8.Constipation commonly occurs in most cases due to dietary changes or lack of physical activity. The condition is resolved usually by changes in diet and lifestyle. But, it can be a warning sign and may require immediate medical attention when:
there is severe cramping pain with sudden onset of constipation.
Blood in stool.
Loss of weight.
Severe pain with bowel movements. Constipation is for a prolonged period.

9.Generally, dietary and lifestyle changes can prevent constipation : Drinking 3-4 glasses of water every day.
Adding vegetables and fruits to your diet every day.
Routine physical activity and exercise is a must.
Eating Probiotics such as curd, yoghurt or kefir daily. Avoiding processed food, processed meat, and fried food. Drinking less alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
Not ignoring the urge to poop.

10.There are several different laxatives available, just for your information.
Osmatic laxatives like milk of magnesia cause softening of stool.
Stimulant laxatives increase the speed of bowel movements to help the stool to move through. Lubricant laxatives like mineral oil lubricate the intestine and help to slide the stool along the colon.
Saline laxatives are used as enemas to empty the bowel.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

Are popcorns 🍿 healthy ? 9 facts 🙌

by drjurisharma, posted in body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, deep fried food, eyes, Food, glutathione, antioxidant, gut health, gut bacteria, hormones, Gastrointestinal, GI tract, healing, health, popcorn, Science, skin, cancer, anti inflammatory, plant, nature, medicine, herb, stomach, abdomen, intestines, Uncategorized, wellness
  1. Popcorns are corn kernels which get popped when heated. Today, across the world, this has become the most popular snack amongst all age groups. Corn is the oldest grain which has been consumed for over 5000 years. It has been popular due to its easy availability and low cost. As far as health point of view is considered, it is a whole grain food, rich in fibre, low in calories and dense in nutrients.
  2. Studies show that popcorn is high in fibre and contains many vitamins and minerals. Important nutrients in popcorn are vitamins B1, B3, B6, iron, potassium, manganese, zinc, copper and phosphorus. Many studies also show that it is rich in polyphenols which are potent antioxidants. Polyphenols reduce the risk of damage by free radicals, diabetes, and heart disease and improve gut health. Popcorn is gluten-free so it can be a healthy option for people with gut issues.

3.Since, it is high in fibre and low in calories, it can help in weight loss. Eating a cup of popcorn which is around 30 calories can relatively be more beneficial in terms of fibre and nutrient content than any other popular snack. Also, it can give the feeling of fullness and curb your hunger for quite some time. Therefore, eating in moderation of popcorn can be very useful in the process of weight loss in an overweight individual.

4.Popcorn contains antioxidants Zeaxanthin, beta carotene and lutein which are very essential to eye health. These antioxidants can slow the age-related macular degeneration of the eyes, lower the damage caused by blue light and overall improve the eyesight.


5.Other health benefits of yellow popcorn are :
*Boost the metabolism and energy production due to the presence of vitamins B, B3, B6 and folate.
*Popcorn contains niacin which helps to reduce depression naturally.
*Phosphorus, and manganese present in popcorn help to support bone health.
*Popcorn can combat tumour cells due to the presence of ferulic acid.
*It can reduce the level of bad cholesterol and prevent the risk of heart disease.
*It can slow down the process of ageing as it helps in free radical damage.
*It can add iron (28 gm of popcorn containing 0.9mg of iron) to the diet and reduce anaemia. *It can control blood sugar as it has a low glycaemic index and helps in diabetics.

6.Air-popped popcorn is healthiest. Unsalted popcorn, unflavoured is healthier than those with an excess of oil, butter, sugar, caramel, and salt. Microwave popcorn bags which are pre-packed contain the chemical perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and sometimes, trans fat which are harmful to health.


7.Popcorn added to diet in moderation can prove to be safe and beneficial to health. But it may have side effects on certain individuals. Some individuals can have allergic reactions to popcorn like swollen face, and breathing difficulty which may require urgent medical attention. People with digestive diseases and inflammatory bowel disorders can have flaring-up symptoms when consuming popcorn.


8.Popcorn is the ideal choice for adding to your diet in moderation. You can definitely enjoy popcorn daily, as long as you stick to one cup per day without any butter, salt, sugar, or artificial flavors. This will provide a healthy dose of whole fiber content, making it the most nutritious snack option for your diet.

9. Yellow corn which is organically grown, non-GMO, is best for regular consumption. Popcorn which is popped from such type of high-quality corn, air popped with no added flavours is ideal and provides immense health benefits. Rich in phytonutrients, vitamins, and minerals, whole grain fibres can help to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, obesity, diabetes and many malignancies.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

Are canned food healthy? 10 facts 🙌

by drjurisharma, posted in body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, canned food, detoxification, vegetable,, Food, healing, health, life, Science, Uncategorized, wellness


1.Canning is a method of packing food in air tight containers to last longer period of time. It can last from 1-5 years depending upon the kind of food preserved. 3 steps which include canning are processing the food by cleaning, peeling and slicing. Next step is packing them in air tight containers and lastly, heating or thermal sterilization of those containers to kill harmful bacteria and germs.


2.We often hear that canned food and vegetables are not good enough. Though the fact is true that having freshly picked or buying fresh produce vegetables from the farmer’s market is best. While canned food and vegetables are fine as long as it is not used daily. Canning restores nutrients and is easy and handy to use. They can be kept in the freezer for days when the availability of fresh produce is low.


3.Some studies show that canning restores the high nutrients of the food. Since canning involves heating, heat releases more antioxidants from food like tomatoes and corn. So, certain nutrient levels like antioxidants are increased. However, some water-soluble vitamins like C and B can get damaged due to the heating process. In general, canned food is good enough as comparable to fresh and frozen food.


4.Commercial canning and food packaging involves a chemical named BPA (bisphenol-A). Studies do show that the BPA in cans do get mixed with the food that has been preserved. Certain studies show that BPA can be linked to heart disease and type 2 diabetes. But, more studies are required to prove the hypothesis. Sometimes, bad and unhygienic canning can lead to contamination by harmful bacteria like botulism. So, it is important to avoid canned food which is damaged, leaked or cracked.


5.Preservatives, salt, and sugar can be used to enhance the flavours of the canned food. The high salt content can risk to people with high blood pressure while sugar preservatives can be an issue in the case of diabetic people. Therefore, it is very important to read the labels and ingredients list before buying a canned product. Before using canned food, draining and rinsing the food is necessary so that the excess salt or sugar is released.

6.Canned meat, chicken, and seafood are handy sources of protein with vitamins and minerals. Usually, the shelf life is 2-5 years depending upon the product. They might contain extra sodium or salt while canning. So, the food needs to be drained completely to remove the excess salt before consuming. Depending upon the brand to brand, reading the label and the ingredients lists before purchasing, the canned meat and seafood can be used as a healthy and filling source of protein and vitamins as when necessary.


7.The most important aspects of using canned food in our diet are knowing the brand, a reputed brand, buying the product from a known store and the ingredient lists. The most crucial risk factors can be spoilage, damaged or leaked cans, BPA exposure, the potential for quality variation, environmental impacts, high sodium content, lack of freshness and nutrient loss.

8. In spite of some of the risk factors, there are still a lot of advantages of canned food and are widely being used worldwide. They are concentrated food, handy to use, safe and can be stored for a long time at a room temperature. They are usually protected from contamination of micro- organisms, insects, pests and pollutants. They are available throughout the year and can be consumed instantly.

9.The disadvantages are important to note too. Nowadays, apart from BPA, several preservatives are used in canned food like nitrites, sulfites, potassium, sodium benzoate, and BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole 320) which can be hazardous to health. So, it is very essential to read the labels and ingredients list while buying a canned product. Already mentioned about the risk of botulism if the canned food container is leaked or damaged.

10. Yes, canned food is easy, quick, handy and affordable. Not all canned products are bad and can provide the necessary nutrients for health when consumed. When food availability is low, or when you are travelling, canned food is convenient to use. Having canned food, only whenever is required and never using it regularly is recommended. Eating fresh produce or frozen vegetables is a far better option than having a canned product which might prove detrimental to health in the long run as harmful preservatives do often get mixed with the canned food.

Thanks for reading.

Peace and love 🙏

10 facts about Cheilitis or chapped lips 👄

by drjurisharma, posted in body, health, lifestyle, dietary, exercise, herbs, water, liver, stroke, cancer, hepatitis, healing, health, life, physical therapy, pain, body aches, spinal,, Uncategorized, wellness
  1. Chapped lips are common and can happen any time of the year irrespective of season. When lips are dried, cracked and feel tight, they are called chapped lips or Cheilitis. As the skin on the lips contains no oil glands, they are thinner and more sensitive, hence chapped lips are common. Most of the time, it is common in dry winter, or excessive sun exposure, dehydration or excessive licking.
  2. Cheilitis or chapped lips is inflammation of the lips and can be of different types depending on the sources.
    Due to allergic reaction called contact cheilitis.
    For sun exposure called actinic chelitis.
    Reaction to certain drugs like retinoids causes drug induced cheilitis. Fungal infection of the mouth causes angular cheilitis.
    Herpes infection causes infective cheilitis.
    Persistent painless swelling of the lips causes granulomatous cheilitis. Frequent licking of the lips causes exfoliative cheilitis.

3.Certain risk factors which can cause cheilitis are nutritional deficiency of vitamin B12 and iron, certain medical conditions like thyroid disease, autoimmune conditions like Lupus erythematosus, Sarcoidosis, Crohn’s disease, dermatitis and allergic reaction to cosmetics. Metabolic diseases like diabetes, certain irritants, climatic effects and oral candidiasis can cause cheilitis.

4.Diagnosis: Chapped lips are common and temporary. When lips are cracked, swollen, or tight, then, they are called chapped lips or cheilitis which can be easily diagnosed visually. A long-term occurrence of chapped lips may be required for medical attention. Usually, an allergy test, blood work and sometimes a biopsy are required for a proper diagnosis. Bleeding is common from cracked lips which can be easily managed by a lip balm or ointment. If bleeding is frequent, then medical attention is necessary for the diagnosis of the underlying cause.

5.Treatment:Whenever chapped lips appear, it is important to apply lip balm immediately, so that it will heal faster and leave no scope for infection. Wearing lip balm regularly will heal the lips faster within a week. When bleeding occurs from cracks, cuts, or sores from the lips, there is pain and irritation. In that case too, continuously applying lip balm, ointments like petroleum jelly, glycerin or mineral oils like castor oil can be used for healing which may take longer. Lip balm needs to be hypoallergenic, moisturizing and with sunscreen SPF preferably.

6.Crevices: People with more skin creases, either anatomically or due to ageing, are more prone to developing cheilitis. This is because saliva from the mouth can accumulate in the lip crevices, leading to inflammation and cheilitis. Elderly individuals, smokers, those with sensitive skin, and ill- fitted dentures, and people who drool during sleep are also prone to cheilitis. Additionally, individuals with Down syndrome have a higher likelihood of developing cheilitis.

7.Symptoms of cheilitis of any type can have common characteristics like: *Dryness
*Cracked or fissures
*Peeling
*Itching *Redness *Bleeding
*Pain or irritation

8.Medication: Apart from lip balm, vaseline, petroleum jelly and glycerine, there are certain medication options for different types of cheilitis.
*For contact cheilitis, topical corticosteroids and emollients like Vaseline can be used.
*For angular cheilitis, topical antifungal and antiseptic ointments are used. *For Drug induced cheilitis, firstly discontinuing the use of the drug and applying emollients can be useful.
*For actinic cheilitis, applying topical corticosteroids is useful.

9.Prevention:
Preventing frequent licking of lips.
The routine habit of applying either petroleum jelly, lip balm, beeswax, or lip products with SPF (zinc oxide).
Staying hydrated in hot summer and using a humidifier in cold dry climates.
Avoid irritants like fragrance, allergens, and food that can irritate.
Breathing through the nose rather than the mouth.
Covering face and lips in dry windy weather.

10.Products: Since the market is flooded with various lip products, many people are allergic or sensitive to certain products. While trying a new lip balm, if there is burning or tingling, it is important to stop using the product immediately. Common irritants used in lip products are flavouring agents, fragrances, menthol, camphor, lanolin and many more. The best product for chapped lips has been the age-old petroleum jelly or the glycerine.

Thanks for reading 😊

Peace and love 🙏