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Silent Sunday 🍂
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Category: life
10 facts to know about the MTHFR gene 🙌
- 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. - 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.
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
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.
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.
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Peace and love 🙏
Silent Sunday🪻
Peace and love 🙏
New Year wishes, 2025 🙌
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 blackheads 🙌
- Blackheads are a type of acne that is common regardless of age group. They are tiny bumps formed on the skin due to clogging of hair follicles, either due to dirt or excess oil deposition on pores. The sebaceous (oil) glands are located all over our body, and they release oil to keep the skin hydrated and prevent drying. Blackheads are formed when these glands are blocked due to excess oil, dirt, pollutants, or the buildup of dead cells.
- Blackheads appear as black or dark spots in the skin and can be easily identified. They can appear all over the body but are most commonly seen on the face, nose, cheek, chin, neck, and back. Studies show that blackheads can appear at any age but are found to appear commonly during adolescence, menstruation, stress, or a positive family history of acne.
- Studies show clearly that acne and blackheads appear when there is an overproduction of sebum or oil from the sebaceous glands. These sebaceous glands are on the surface of the skin, all over the body. When the pores of the skin surface are blocked due to deposits of dead cells, dirt and excess oil, the pores appear as comedones. When the comedones are opened and the clogged plug becomes oxidised, they appear black or grey in colour hence the name blackheads.
4.Research shows that there are various factors responsible for blackheads as such:
- Hormonal changes during adolescent years, during menstruation, pregnancy, and taking birth
control pills. - Certain drugs like corticosteroids, lithium, androgens.
- Production of excess oil or sebum in the body.
- Improper skin hygiene causes a build-up of bacteria and dirt on the skin.
- Low levels of vitamin B and vitamin D can cause acne and blackheads.
- Abnormal formation of keratin, the protein that is present in skin, hair and nails.
- Genetic predisposition.
5.Blackheads and Sebaceous filaments might look similar on the skin but they are completely different. Sebaceous filaments are normal appendages on the surface of the skin through which sebum travels from the sebaceous glands to the skin surface. They keep the skin hydrated. Whereas blackheads look dark or grey spots on the skin which has plugs on the surface. They are open, dark bumps due to dirt and oil deposits.
6.Whenever blackheads or pimples appear, what people commonly do is that they squeeze them which is completely a wrong idea. This may have the risk of:
- Infection.
- Painful acne.
- Redness and inflammation.
- Leaving a permanent scar.
7.Blackheads can be effectively prevented, and you can achieve clear skin with the right approach Some of the common ways which can be done to prevent acne and blackheads are:
- Double cleansing method: First, remove the dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin with an oil-based cleanser. Followed by washing the face with a water-based cleanser or mild facewash.
- Use facial scrubs regularly to exfoliate the skin and remove the dead cells: A gentle brush, fruit scrubs, and sodium tetraborate decahydrate granules are some less abrasive scrubs which
can be used. - Oatmeal scrubs are effective exfoliative and anti-inflammatory agents suitable for the skin.
- Pore strips are adhesive strips that are put on the skin and pulled away removing the dirt and excess oil. But, they should be used once or twice a week.
8.Common treatments which can be applied to treat blackheads are:
- Firstly, squeezing or using some self-removal methods should be completely avoided. These methods are more harmful and worsen the skin condition, leaving a permanent scar.
- Over-the-counter topical lotion or cleanser can be used: Salicylic acid, Azelaic acid (wheat, barley, other grains naturally contain azelaic acid), Benzoyl peroxide and Retinoids.
- Tea tree oil is an effective topical agent.
9.If blackheads are persistent or there is skin irritation and inflammation, Dermatologist treatments are necessary. Oral antibiotics, prescription-strength topical agents, chemical peels, microdermabrasion and laser therapy can be used depending on the skin condition.
10. Blackheads, as such are not a serious condition and usually go on their own with routine skin hygiene. Yes, some people suffer from blackheads throughout life. Routinely washing the face with mild face wash, cleansing and moisturizing are necessary. Daily removal of make-up and cosmetic agents at the end of each day is mandatory before following the routine skin cleansing methods. An important tip of the day is keeping your hands away from your face always.
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Peace and love 🙏
Diwali wishes 2024 🪔
We keep moving forward in life because that’s the only option left with us. We may meet new challenges and new obstacles on our path. In this festival of light, may the Divine show us the path, lead us through darkness and protect us in this journey of life and self discovery.
Dear readers, wishing you and your loved ones, a prosperous, joyful and healthy Diwali 2024.
Thanks for reading.
Love and light 🙏
Taming the monkey mind….5 facts 🙌
‘Monkey mind’, yes, that’s what the Buddhists called our wondering mind. The more you try to control, the more it wanders. This is the nature of the human mind. It can never remain still. During the day, whenever, we try to be still, the mind races ahead to the future or returns to the past in some old memories. Our mind is always thinking of something or another. Distractions like tasks, jobs, people around, day-to-day stress, entertainment, and social media, all add up to the flickering nature of the mind. Therefore, let’s explore why our mind behaves this way and how we can try to control it, if at all, it’s possible:
1.A wandering mind is quite a normal behaviour and characteristic in nature. The attention shift of the mind from one thought to another is involuntary before even we notice it. In a monotonous daily activity of a boring nature, like studying, in the classroom in case of a student, or doing daily chores, it can happen voluntarily.
2.Studies show that the mind wonders mainly for two reasons: Either the work or activity, we have been doing is not engaging and monotonous and another reason can be that facing obstacles or hard task causes worry and anxiousness.
Sometimes, Scientists, link the wandering nature to creativity, explorative and intuitive mind. However, this becomes problematic. In those times, when we are supposed to be working, we lose focus and attention or think in bed when we are supposed to sleep. Oftentimes, the mind is either daydreaming, imagining things, anxious thoughts worrying about the future or replaying some old memories, stuck in some emotional thoughts.
3.What can be the possible causes of a wondering mind?
*Anxiousness and worrying mind.
*Boring and repetitive activities.
*External distractions like our mobile phones and other gadgets, people around, noises, social media.
*Internal distractions like stress, anger, hurt, sadness. Physical discomfort like fatigue, pain, hunger.
*People with attention deficit disorder have a hyperactive mind.
4.Self-awareness: How can I realise that I have a wondering mind?
Firstly, being aware of your own mental state. Most of the time, if you find yourself, overthinking, worrying, and ruminating thoughts.
Your mind is often, exhausted, being engaged in unproductive thoughts, unable to find solutions to problems or losing your spontaneous problem-solving ability.
Being self-aware, in such a state of mind, can help us to bring about change in our mental state.
5.Taming a wondering mind can be a very difficult task. But, with practice and consistency, everything is possible.
a)Meditation is an effective tool. Again, meditation is’nt easy. Perhaps, sitting still in a quiet place, trying to focus the mind is a hardest task. Focusing on breathing is a commonest method. Other methods can be, focusing or imagining an object like sun, moon, or the ocean. Using a guided mediation or listening to nature sounds, chanting of mantras can be effective.
b)Journaling is a powerful tool to clear the mind. Noting down daily thoughts, thoughts related to job, loved ones, family, future goals, holiday plans, emotional pain, feelings of old memories can be very useful to clear the mind clutter. Writing down can self-help to acknowledge the bothering thoughts and refocus the mind to concentrate on the task at hand.
c)Physical activity like going for a walk, physical movement of the body, legs and hands, watering your balcony plants, spending time in nature, light exercises can be very helpful to reset the mind. Playing an instrument, or listening to a music piece can be rejuvenating to refocus the mind too.
d)Sleep and adequate rest are necessary to clear the mind clutter. Getting a proper goodnight sleep and following a daily sleep routine is mandatory. Making a conscious effort to keep away from our mobile phones, social media distractions, caffeine free, emotional disturbing thoughts, 2-3 hours prior going to bed, can give an adequate sleep.
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Peace and love 🙏
Butyrate is the latest buzzword! Is it just a hype or the reality? 10 facts 🙌
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Peace and love 🙏
Wordless Wednesday 🙌
Peace and love 🙏
Sunday musings 🙌
Happy Sunday everyone!
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Peace and love 🙏
3H:health,happiness,healing 