Lifestyle

New Delhi, June 16 (IANSlife) It might be scary to get diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or worse, kidney failure. However, experts suggest that if you find the disease in its early stages, certain steps can be taken to prolong kidney function. According to an estimate, nearly 850 million individuals worldwide are estimated to have kidney diseases due to several causes. The two main causes of kidney failure are diabetes and blood pressure.

Although renal transplants and kidney dialysis are the two most common treatment options for kidney failure or chronic kidney disease, they have their own side effects. The kidney may get rejected by the patient's body during a transplant or there may be chances of infection during dialysis. When it comes to natural and safe treatment for kidney diseases, Ayurveda has always been an exceptional way.

Here are some Ayurveda tips to keep your kidneys healthy and rejuvenate as well as strengthen the renal system:

Stay hydrated: You can significantly lower your chances of developing kidney disease by consuming plenty of fluids as it can help kidneys in clearing sodium, urea, and toxins from the body. At the same time, it is crucial to avoid excessive consumption of fluids as it can cause side effects, forcing the kidneys to over-function filtering the excess toxins. You can maintain a healthy fluid intake of at least 1.5 liters of water per day.

Kidney detox: According to Ayurveda, periodic cleansing of kidneys can be done with the help of certain powerful Ayurvedic herbs. Diuretic herbs like Parsley, Gokshur, Varuna, Punarnava, and Celery aid in flushing out the kidneys and urinary tract, while reducing toxin levels in the body. You can also consume herbal tea by boiling any of these herbs in 2 cups of water and steeping for 15 minutes.

Follow a balanced and nutritious diet: To ensure that your kidneys are in good health, and you maintain an ideal body weight, you should follow a balanced and nutritious diet comprising of fibrous fruits and vegetables. In addition, avoid processed or fast food and reduce your salt intake. Instead of a high-protein diet, opting for a low-calorie diet would be wise as the former could increase the burden on kidneys. Consuming superfoods like grapes, apples, blueberries, garlic, and cabbage would also ensure healthy kidneys. To remove toxins and prevent the formation of kidney stones, amla juice is strongly recommended.

Control blood pressure & sugar levels: High blood pressure, along with diabetes, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular diseases, raises the chances of kidney damage. Only a few people are aware that high blood pressure is the most common cause of kidney damage, as it is mostly linked to a stroke or heart attack. Regular check-ups to understand or know the status of your kidneys can help in preventing or reducing the chances of kidney damage.

Ayurveda has been found to be an exceptional way to promote kidney health in the long run as it naturally treats the doshas (imbalances) in the body. For instance, Ayurvedic herbs and treatment fixes the imbalance of pitta (fire energy) levels in the body, and heals the kidneys in a natural way, as opposed to allopathy medicines which have several side effects. In some cases, Ayurveda treatment has also enabled kidney patients to stop dialysis.

--IANS
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By Pawan Gupta
New Delhi, June 16 (IANSlife) June, a month filled with warmth and sunshine, brings with it two exquisite birthstones that captivate the hearts of those born during this time: the radiant pearl and the enchanting moonstone. These gems have long been revered for their beauty, symbolism, and timeless appeal. Let us delve into the captivating world of June birthstones and explore the magic they hold.


The Radiant Pearl: A Testament to Elegance and Purity

The pearl, often referred to as the "Queen of Gems," has a rich history that dates back centuries. Unlike other gemstones, pearls are created within living organisms, specifically oysters and mussels. These natural treasures are formed when a foreign object, such as a grain of sand, finds its way into the delicate flesh of these mollusks. In response, the creature secretes layers of nacre, a lustrous substance, to protect itself, eventually resulting in the formation of a pearl.

Pearls are known for their exquisite luster and unique charm. Their soft, iridescent glow evokes a sense of elegance and purity, making them a popular choice for jewelry. Pearls come in various colors, including white, cream, pink, and even black. Each shade carries its own allure, allowing individuals to find the perfect pearl that resonates with their personality and style.

Beyond their captivating beauty, pearls have been steeped in symbolism throughout history. In many cultures, pearls are associated with purity, wisdom, and emotional healing. They are believed to enhance feelings of serenity and promote harmony within oneself. These enchanting gems are also considered a symbol of love and good fortune, making them a cherished gift for special occasions such as weddings and anniversaries.

The Enchanting Moonstone: Embracing Mystery and Feminine Energy

The second birthstone associated with June is the mesmerizing moonstone. Admired for its ethereal beauty, moonstone is named after its striking resemblance to the moon's soft, luminous glow. This gem belongs to the feldspar mineral group and is known for its captivating adularescence -- a stunning optical phenomenon that creates a shimmering light play on its surface.

Moonstones are predominantly found in colors such as white, cream, peach, and gray, with a subtle blue sheen that dances across their surface. This mesmerising play of light gives moonstone an otherworldly allure, evoking a sense of mystery and magic.

Throughout history, moonstone has been associated with various mythologies and beliefs. In ancient times, it was believed to be formed from moonbeams, possessing the power to connect individuals with divine feminine energy. Moonstone is often associated with intuition, inner growth, and emotional balance. It is said to enhance one's psychic abilities and promote a deep sense of harmony and serenity.

Celebrating June with Timeless Jewellery

As we celebrate the month of June, adorned with radiant pearls and enchanting moonstones, it is a perfect opportunity to explore their beauty through exquisite jewelry pieces. Whether it's a delicate pearl pendant, a statement moonstone ring, or a captivating combination of both gems, these birthstones can add a touch of elegance and individuality to any ensemble.

When selecting jewelry featuring June birthstones, consider the design that speaks to you personally. Pearls can be beautifully paired with other gemstones or precious metals to create unique and versatile pieces. Moonstones, on the other hand, can be showcased as a centerpiece in rings, necklaces, or earrings, allowing their enchanting glow to take center stage.

Remember to care for your precious gems to maintain their brilliance and longevity. Pearls are delicate and require gentle handling.

(Pawan Gupta is the Director at PP Jewellers)

--IANS
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Beijing, June 16 (IANS) Contact lenses, worn by millions of people around the world, tend to shed microplastics when exposed to sunlight for a long time, according to a pilot study.

To determine the number of microplastics in the small samples, such as contact lenses, researchers from the universities of Nanjing and Hohai designed an automated system that took microscopic images of the samples, processed those images, and quantified any microplastics that were present.

Their findings, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, showed that lenses exposed to sunlight over time can shed tiny fragments of plastic, though the health impact is unclear.

The researchers gathered six kinds of contact lenses from various brands and of different lifespans.

To mimic normal wear and care, the lenses were stored in water, kept under a lamp that mimicked sunlight and were rinsed with water three times every 10 hours.

After receiving the equivalent of 30 or 90 days of sunlight, the water each lens was stored in was analysed.

In tests with standard amounts of microplastics, the team found that the new system's analyses were quicker and more accurate than when the samples were analysed manually. In the absence of any simulated sunlight, no microplastics were detected.

However, the researchers observed increasing amounts when the contact lenses were exposed to the equivalent of 90 days of sunlight. Lenses with shorter lifetimes showed the greatest amount of shed microplastics after this exposure.

Based on their data in this small-scale study, the researchers estimate that more than 90,000 microplastic particles per year could be shed from some lenses if worn for 10 hours a day.

The human health impact of direct exposure of microplastics to eyes is not currently known, but the researchers say their findings indicate that more studies in this area are urgently needed.

--IANS
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Los Angeles, June 4 (IANS) Hollywood star Michael Keaton thought his vision of Batman was unlikely to happen. The 71-year-old actor took on the title role of the superhero in the 1989 film directed by Tim Burton and returned to star in its 1992 sequel 'Batman Returns'.

He explained that he believed his own views on the character would not make the final cut because he could not imagine anyone wanting to see him portrayed in that way, reports 'Female First UK'.

He told 'Empire' magazine: "I remember exactly where we were. He said, 'I wanna talk to you about something. I just want you to read this, because I think I'm gonna make this movie' What's interesting if you think about this is that up until then, his and my relationship was only 'Beetlejuice'. So there was something, I don't know that I've ever asked him this, actually, but something gave him the idea and so he said, ago home and read it."

He further mentioned, quoted by 'Female First UK', "I said, 'Well, no one's going to do what I think, this is probably not going to happen, because I can't imagine anyone would want to make the movie that I see' and all I said, 'listen to me Tim'. And I started to go down the list of the guy, Bruce Wayne with him, my take on him and he didn't say anything but his hair was long at the time and I could see it moving as he nodded, 'yes, yes, Exactly'. He's a rare breed, a true artist and a true original."

"He was already seeing it and it was basically the Frank Miller stuff. And I wasn't aware of all that stuff, I just knew what it was, but I knew I had to read the Miller stuff. And I thought, 'oh, this could be interesting," he added.

--IANS
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New York, June 4 (IANS) Adding a novel drug to hormone therapy can help block the return of the most common form of breast cancer by 25 per cent, according to a study.

Researchers found that patients with early hormone-receptor (HR) positive/HER2 negative breast cancer who took the combination therapy -- ribociclib, a targeted therapy drug, and hormone therapy -- had substantially longer invasive disease-free survival compared to those who were treated with the hormone therapy alone.

This was regardless of whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, said the team from University of California, Los Angeles.

The addition of the targeted therapy reduced the risk of recurrence by 25 per cent, they noted while presenting the study at the American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting.

"The findings show this combination is a treatment of choice for patients with stage 2 or stage 3 HR positive/HER2 negative breast cancer," said Dr Dennis Slamon, chair of haematology-oncology and director of clinical and translational research at the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.

HR positive/HER2 negative breast cancer is the most common subtype of the disease.

The clinical trial involved 5,101 patients with stage 2 or stage 3 early HR positive/HER2 negative breast cancer.

Patients were randomised into two arms: 2,549 were randomised to the combination treatment and 2,552 to the hormone therapy alone. Invasive disease-free survival was the primary endpoint of the study.

The median duration of study follow-up was 34 months, with three-year and two-year duration of ribociclib completed by 20 per cent and 57 per cent patients respectively.

Invasive disease-free survival was evaluated after 426 events.

At the time of this analysis, 189 people in the ribociclib group (7.4 per cent of patients) experienced an invasive disease-free survival event, compared to 237 people in the hormone therapy alone group (9.3 per cent of patients).

The data showed a statistically significant improvement in the risk of invasive disease in favour of the combination arm.

The invasive disease-free survival rates at three years were 90.4 per cent, compared to 87.1 per cent for women who were treated with only hormone therapy.

Ribociclib at 400 mg had a favourable safety profile with no new signals.

"Overall, the combination therapy showed more favourable outcomes, significantly reducing the risk of the cancer returning," Slamon said. "These results should change how we evaluate and treat patients."

--IANS
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By IANSlife
New Delhi, June 2 (IANSlife) For the first time, designers Maison Shantnu & Nikhil present "Shantnu Nikhil Cricket Club," a new concept under the "S & N by Shantnu Nikhil" brand, that embraces the spirit of cricket in a unique amalgamation of sport with the designers' signature fashion forms, featuring Harmanpreet Kaur.


"Shantnu Nikhil Cricket Club stemmed from a long-awaited dream, inspired by our love for cricket and a vision to connect the sport to lifestyle promise. It's truly exhilarating to see the club branch out into its second edition- with a new twist. To celebrate the new edition, we are ecstatic to have Harmanpreet Kaur representing the campaign, in her true sportsperson spirit. We feel so proud that SNCC is growing phenomenally as a lifestyle conversation, as well as harmonising fashion and cricket like never before!" say designers Shantnu & Nikhil

This luxe, youthful label carries forward the bridge to the luxury design philosophy while offering regal looks to those who want to take their connection with the sport as well as their fashion game, a notch higher! In keeping with the ethos of brands from Maison Shantnu Nikhil, SNCC introduces the batsman logo with a fresh perspective to the signature brand crest, which symbolizes the spirit of achievement that portrays a will to strive forward and a sense of unity: a culture that the club stands for. The campaign is shot at the iconic Maidens Hotel by The Oberoi Group. The nostalgia of space met by the regalia of sport, intertwine itself into the grand imagery- as presented in SNCC.

To represent the latest drop from "Shantnu Nikhil Cricket Club", the Maison has Harmanpreet Kaur- the captain of the Indian women's cricket team. She represents the grit, sheer passion, and humility a great sportsperson exhibits. With SNCC, the brand applauds the pathbreaking cricketer and unveils her glamorous side like never seen before.

"I have always expressed myself through cricket and have only strived for excellence. I am very glad to see acclaimed designers Shantnu & Nikhil understand the significance of cricket in our country and amalgamate their aesthetics with the sport. It's a proud feeling to feature in the second edition of Shantnu Nikhil Cricket Club, which feels like my own style come alive." says Harmanpreet Kaur.

The contemporary lineup of the range is dedicated to preserving the game's nostalgic and yet stylistic hallmarks on a canvas of season-friendly fabrics like flat knit and premium silks. The second drop of SNCC includes lineup of gingham prints which can be seen across categories, whilst the colour Orange- brings a whole new outburst of energy to the collection.

From essential sartorial pieces like the genteel retro-doused varsity jackets, suave power suits, and classic and yet elevated cropped polos to classic pick-me-up accessories -- neckerchiefs, bucket hats, belts; SNCC infiltrates the modern-day wardrobe with a vision of easygoing everyday dressing injected with a jolt of much needed youthful swagger!

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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By Rohit Ramana
New Delhi, June 2 (IANSlife) A decade ago, conversations around mental health support at the workplace were simply swept under the corporate carpet. The stigma around depression, anxiety, and stress was so prevalent that these issues were not even acknowledged. But today, 81 per cent of workplaces have increased their focus on employee mental health.


As we peel back the layers of corporate norms, it becomes evident that mental health support stands as an irreplaceable pillar in creating an environment where every employee can thrive. Just as the human mind holds endless potential, embracing mental health support is the key to unlocking the untapped potential within each individual.

We are all a combination of our experiences, the expectations we have of ourselves, and those that people have of us, and sometimes it is natural to be overwhelmed. How each one of us reacts to these stimuli is different, and that is what makes us unique. Investing in employee well-being is the first and most important step in fostering such individuality and building a great organisation.

The World Health Organization estimates that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy approximately $1 trillion per year in lost productivity. Investing in mental health support not only benefits individual employees but also yields significant economic returns, creating a win-win scenario for both employees and organisations.

Breaking the Stigma and Fostering Acceptance

Only 13 per cent of employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health in the workplace. According to a study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 9 out of 10 employees who experienced mental health challenges reported facing stigma in their workplace. This stigma often leads to employees hiding their mental health conditions and delaying seeking help, impacting their well-being and productivity. Picture a workplace where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. A place where every employee is working towards growing the business, unhindered by the stigma associated with mental health challenges. Leading new-age businesses, our actions and values set the tone for the entire organization. Hence, the onus is on the leadership to actively break down the stigma surrounding mental health. This will further inspire a ripple effect, empowering others within an organization to do the same. We need to create an environment where employees can thrive, leading to enhanced productivity and optimal performance. This encourages diverse viewpoints, creativity, and collaboration, leading to breakthrough ideas and solutions. When employees feel safe to express themselves authentically, they can contribute their unique talents and experiences to the collective success of the organization.

Enabling equal access to resources

Indian workplaces have come a long way when it comes to de-stigmatizing conversations around mental health challenges. In the face of "the 2020 pandemic", mental well-being took centre stage, and workplaces started embracing mental health support policies. The industry has taken a step forward in not just acknowledging but also providing resources that are accessible, equitable, and culturally sensitive. As an ecosystem, we need to position ourselves as an ally in the mental health journey of our employees and remove barriers to access such as cost, stigma, and logistical challenges. Around 80 per cent of Indian companies have gone the EAP (Employee Assistance Program) way to offer access to trained professionals. They help employees address personal and work-related challenges, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. New-age companies are revisiting, rehauling, and restructuring their policies to incorporate mental health support as an integral part. This includes providing flexible working hours, paid mental health leave, and additional health insurance coverage for mental health treatments. Such policies ensure that employees have the necessary resources and support to prioritize their mental well-being.

Acing the talent attraction and retention game

The younger workforce of today is drawn in by an organisation's progressive and inclusive cultural code. They seek more than just a paycheck; they yearn for a workplace that values their holistic needs and provides a supportive environment. Today's generation appreciates diversity and seeks to be a part of a company that embraces different backgrounds, opinions, and experiences. Prioritizing diversity and inclusion in hiring, leadership, and decision-making processes increases the appeal of companies to the younger workforce. It is important to remember that collaboration and innovation are fostered by an inclusive culture.

According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), for every dollar invested in mental health treatment, there is an average return of $4 in improved health and productivity. This highlights the significance of providing accessible mental health resources to employees, as it not only benefits individuals but also contributes to overall organisational success. Our mental health support policies act as a value addition, drawing in the best and brightest minds who are eager to contribute their skills and expertise. Once they join our organization, these policies become the glue that keeps them engaged, committed, and loyal. By offering resources such as counselling services, flexible work arrangements, and mental health leave, we create an inclusive culture that meets their needs beyond the industry's tick boxes. I believe that investing in mental health support and promoting a culture that does not discard young minds not only attracts young talent but also cultivates a team of empowered individuals who are motivated to grow and thrive.

Creating workplaces "Where the mind is without Fear"

A recent report by Indeed titled- "Where the mind is without fear", states that a psychologically safe environment is a key component of diversity, inclusion, and belonging (DI&B) efforts. While devising policies for an all-inclusive workplace environment, we need to remember that mental health is not one-size-fits-all. Right now, we are all operating in a piecemeal manner, providing Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), counselling sessions, and interventions aimed at alleviating stress and improving motivation and productivity. But due to the unconscious biases at play, we are collectively running behind to reach the desired outcome. The need of the hour is to devise a compelling policy and cultural framework for mental health support and to make it the core of every organizational structure. Employees who receive mental health support and engage in self-care activities are better equipped to manage stress, make effective decisions, and maintain focus on their work responsibilities.

Over the past decade, workplaces have made significant strides in addressing mental health challenges. The once prevalent stigma surrounding mental health is slowly being dismantled, creating an environment where every employee can thrive. Organisations now understand the economic and personal benefits of investing in mental health support. By taking proactive steps to provide mental health support, we can unlock the untapped potential within each individual. The focus should be on creating a future where mental health support is integrated into the fabric of every organization, allowing employees to flourish and contribute their best.

(Rohit Ramana, Chief Financial and People Officer, Mintoak. IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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By Olivia Sarkar
New Delhi, June 2 (IANSlife) These healthy soups are ideal for a summer lunch. Simply prepare a large pot and offer your guests this delectable dish.


SMOKY SALMOREJO

Ingredients:

Tomatoes
White bread with crusts removed
Grated garlic
Vinegar
Olive oil
Salt
Thin sliced green grapes
Chopped roasted almonds

Method:

Cut sides of the tomato halves and discard the skins.
Add bread and toss with tomatoes.
Blend the mixture after 15 minutes in food processor.
Add grated garlic and vinegar in the mixture and gradually add ¼ cup smoked olive oil with the machine on.
Strain the mixture and season it with salt, cover and refrigerate until very cold and your Salmorejo is ready.
Serve the soup in bowls and garnish with grapes, almonds and a drizzle of smoked olive oil.

WATERMELON SOUP

Ingredients:

Watermelon chunks (de-seeded)
Mint leaves
Ginger and garlic paste
Chilli flakes

Method:

Blend 1 cup de-seeded watermelon chunks, 3-5 mint leaves, 1 tsp ginger and garlic paste, salt and pepper to taste, 1 tsp chilli flakes.
Refrigerate and serve cold, with a topping of mint leaves.

CHICKPEA SESAME SOUP

Ingredients:

Boiled chickpea
Garlic clove
Sesame seeds
Cumin seeds
Lime juice
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper

Method:

Blend 1 cup soaked and boiled chickpea, 1 garlic clove, 2 tbsp sesame seeds, 1 tsp roasted cumin seeds, 2 tsp lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper to taste.
Blend all ingredients well to make a smooth paste.
Add cold water to adjust the consistency and serve fresh.

BEETROOT SOUP

Ingredients:
Boiled beetroot
Yogurt
Cumin seeds
Coriander leaves
Salt
Pepper
Mint leaves

Method:

Blend 1 cup boiled beetroot, 1/2 cup yogurt, 1 tsp roasted cumin seeds, 1 tbsp coriander leaves, salt and pepper to taste and a few mint leaves.
Adjust the consistency with cold water and serve fresh.

AVOCADO SPINACH SOUP

Ingredients:

Spinach leaves
Avocado
Garlic
Basil leaves
Yogurt
Lemon juice
Paprika powder
Salt
Pepper

Method:

Blend parboiled 1 cup spinach leaves, 1 ripe avocado, 1 garlic, 2 tsp basil leaves, 1 cup yogurt, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp paprika powder, salt and pepper to taste.
Blend all ingredients and adjust the consistency with cold water.
Serve fresh.

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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By IANSlife
New Delhi, June 2 (IANSlife) A holistic guide to multiple aspects of the physical, mental, and emotional health of women, Womens Health, Wisdom, and Wine! is where Dr. Laurena White shares her expertise and advice to achieve optimal health on Audible. Whether it be essential vitamins, prenatal care, acne, dealing with menopause, or identifying causes of PCOS -- here are 5 tips from this podcast that will help you embark on your health journey.


Prioritize Vitamin D for Optimal Health

Vitamin D is one of the most essential nutrients in our body. When our body gets the right amount of it, we are able to function optimally and a deficit of this nutrient can cause our system to collapse. "Vitamin D makes an enzyme that makes a chemical called Acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is really important in our autonomic nervous system. When you take D it helps your body absorb the calcium in the food and also the magnesium. Another important factor is it keeps the kidneys from spilling calcium into the urine. Kidney stones are one of the results of having a low D.

Eat Your Greens For Optimum Prenatal Nutrition

Pre-natal stages of motherhood are unequivocally the most integral to determining healthy childbirth. Nutrition is essential during this period, mothers to be who eat right and maintain a good lifestyle ensure their babies are healthy too. Here is some expert guidance from Dr.Laurena White on sources of food, pregnant or expecting women must consume. "In terms of supplements, your doctor should be able to recommend good prenatal vitamin and mineral supplements containing extra iron and calcium. Folate, not folic acid is a Vitamin B and is now known to boost fertility and prevent neuro tube defects such as spina bifida which is a serious abnormality in earlier fetal development. A major source of folate is cooked greens and another that we recommend is orange juice. If you are contemplating pregnancy and thinking there is any other possibility that you could get pregnant, for ensurance, take a daily B complex vitamin that supplements and provides at least 400 micrograms of folate."

Embrace Natural Care and Lifestyle Changes to Navigate Menopause

Menopause is one of the most common conditions all women naturally go through. As women reach their menopausal period they tend to rely on over-the-counter medication for symptomatic relief. A lot of this is not required or may have side effects, A quote from centuries before the advent of the pharmaceutical industry states, "Anything that can be treated naturally with dietary means should be". Natural remedies, lifestyle changes, and exercise help relieve menopausal effects to a large extent.

"We found in a survey of 1,100 women not that long ago, that 37 per cent of women were given anti-depressants for menopause, 84 per cent said they did not feel it was appropriate because they did not have clinical depression, and 41 per cent were given hormone replacement therapy, 14 per cent did not take it cause they were too scared and of the ones who did, 62 per cent came off in the first year cause of adverse side effects. They were not then given anything else because although everything we do is based on published medical research, most of the doctors don't know about it."

Mitigate Acne With a Dietary and Lifestyle Changes

Acne scars and breakouts are women's worst nightmares. The rich diet and skincare routine may help mitigate acne but never completely avoid it. The immune system is what responds to the overgrowth of bacteria on our skin such as C-Acne, which is what results in inflammation. As suggested on this podcast, laboratory testing, dietician expertise, and adequate lifestyle changes do away with acne well. Harsh medication which is popularly advertised in the market must be avoided. "Acne is a complicated condition, it is caused by a number of factors and influenced by factors such as diet, stress, hormones, genetics, etc. It is really driven by the overgrowth of one bacteria on our skin. This bacterium is called cutibacterium acnes or C-acne and is present on everyone's skin. C-acne's supposed to be on your skin but when it is part of a balanced microbiome, you are healthy and you don't have any inflammation or acne. It's only when it overgrows beyond a certain point, that you generate that inflammation, and your body responds with that inflammation that you basically see on your face."

Manage PCOS with Lifestyle Modifications

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition where you have few, unusual, or very long periods. It often results in having too much of a male hormone called androgen often resulting in the ovaries not releasing eggs. However, testosterone is not the only hormone imbalance that causes PCOS, our bodies produce other androgens that add up to the condition PCOS. "Hormone imbalances are one of the major PCOS root causes for most women with the condition. While testosterone was made mostly in the ovaries, DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is another androgen that comes mostly from the adrenals. However, genetic factors also seem to be the reason why 20-30% of women who have PCOS also have DHEA. This causes the symptoms associated with PCOS which are weight gain, hair loss, body and facial hair, and fertility." As prescribed by the doctor over-the-counter medications can be consumed, a good diet, and exercise are the most common and effective ways to ease the effects of PCOS.

Women need to engage more in informative conversations about health backed by medical evidence and effective solutions. Tune into Women's Health, Wisdom, and WINE! on Audible to empower yourself and other women to lead a healthier and happier life.

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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