Why do non-smokers have lung cancer?

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Why do non-smokers have lung cancer?

December 06, 2019

Why do non-smokers have lung cancer? Healthbiztips
photo credit: Franck V. @franckinjapan @unsplash

Why do non-smokers have lung cancer? Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer so the emergence of this dreaded disease among non-smokers baffles and surprises many. Try turning the table around and ask why not all smokers develop lung cancer.

First and foremost, although smoking tobacco is the major risk factor for the development of lung cancer, it is not the sole culprit. Circumstances like gene mutation, exposure to second hand smoke, air pollution, radon gas, asbestos, and radiation can also be the reason for the development of lung cancer.

The presence of a family history of lung cancer puts a person at an increased risk of developing this disease. Likewise, environmental factors like inhalation of chemical irritants can have serious implications.

Another culprit shown by research that can greatly contribute to lung cancer formation is the presence of major stressful life events such as divorce. Moreover, particularly startling is the discovery that when these stressful events does show to significantly contribute to lung cancer, their effect manifest in just several months to a few years whilst those attributed to smoking takes decades to develop.

Particularly alarming about lung cancer is it isn't usually apparent during it's early stage as it doesn't manifest signs and symtoms. By the time that symptoms like persistenct cough, breathing difficulty and chest pain does manifest, lung cancer has already advanced to end stage Stage IV in which cancer cells have metastazised to nearby organs such as the liver and brain. Thus, the survival rate for this type of cancer is low.

The possibility that a non-smoker will be diagnosed with lung cancer is by no means a way to put smoking at a better light. Take note that about 80% of individuals who have lung cancer have a history of smoking tobacco.

Overall, the development of lung cancer can involve various factors, not just cigarette smoking.


Resouces:

Jafri, S. H., Ali, F., Mollaeian, A., Mojiz Hasan, S., Hussain, R., Akkanti, B., … El-Osta, H. (2019). Major Stressful Life Events and Risk of Developing Lung Cancer: A Case-Control Study. Clinical Medicine Insights. Oncology, 13, 1179554919835798. doi:10.1177/1179554919835798

Why Saffron is the Most Expensive Spice & What does it Taste?

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Why Saffron is the Most Expensive Spice & What does it Taste?

December 05, 2019

Crocus sativus flower from which Saffron is obtained

photo credit: Mahdi Dastmard @mahdigp @unsplash 

Why Saffron is the Most Expensive Spice & What does it Taste? - Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan - healthblog

A gram of saffron can cost roughly more than $6 but why is it so ridiculously high-priced? What many people don't know is the painstaking process involved in the making of this spice.

Saffron can only be harvested for one to three weeks each year since the violet flower Crocus sativus from which saffron is obtained blooms only during autumn. Not only that, the flowers have to be carefully handpicked and each of it's three stigma meticulous plucked and extracted by hand as well.

Each Crocus sativus flower contains only 3 redish stigma or stamen which are the saffron itself. Considering that each of these have to plucked out by hands, it is indeed a hard labor. A cultivator has to go through about 150 flowers to come by with a single gram of saffron. Meanwhile, an ounce of saffron will require roughly 75,000 flowers.

Did you know that this Crocus flower is sterile so they can not propagate by pollination and instead depends on human intervention to reproduce? So, it's bulb-like corms have to be unearthed manually, divided, and replanted in order to perpetuate their species.

Turning to it's taste. Powdered saffron looks quite like paprika but it definitely isn't on the spicy spectrum. In fact, this spice has a sweet hay-like and distinct taste with a signature fragrant aroma.

Although saffron has a unique taste, it's quite hard to define it in words. In addition, people have varying perception of it's taste. Despite this, it is undeniable that the infusion of this spice takes foods and drinks into a whole new level.

Many will argue that there is no replacement spice for the extraordinary taste of saffron. In fact, the absence of saffron can break the palatability of certain traditional dishes like Spanish paella.

The best quality saffrons are red in color, without a yellowish tint. Intact saffron stigma is preferred than powdered form as this ensure there is no filler like tumeric and paprika that have been added.

Saffron is widely used, especially in the Middle East Asia and India to color and season dishes, beverages, desserts, and is treasured for it's medicinal property.

Saffron is an irreplaceable spice with thousands of years of culinary traditions across the globe, but requires extensive labor to cultivate.

7 Health Benefits of Mango

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7 Health Benefits of Mango

November 15, 2019

Mango Health Benefits - Healthbiztips

Mango Health Benefits - Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan -- health blog

Mango (Mangifera indica) is one of the most desired tropical fruits because of it's delectable taste. It is packed with fiber, vitamins and minerals which offers a range of health advantages.

Ripe mangoes have a soft yellow juicy sweet or sour flesh surrounding a large tough seed at it's core. This fruit comes in various varieties with different sizes and skin color ranging from green, orange, and yellow, although it's skin is inedible.

Unripe mangoes are usually green in color with a extremely sour greenish fresh. Still, even unripe mangoes have an appeal as it can be eaten with fish paste (bagoong) or table salt to balance out it's taste.


1. Promotes good digestion

A good source of fiber, incorporating mango in the diet helps prevent and counteracts gastrointestinal problems like constipation, and encourages  regular bowel movement.


2. Good for the eyes

Every 100 grams of mango contains about 21% of one's daily Vitamin A needs. Vitamin A is essential for sharp eyesight and prevention of macular degeneration.


3. Boosts immune system

Mango is an excellent source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant  that plays a role in immunity and body repair. 100 gram mango meets about 60% of one's daily Vitamin C requirement.


4. Healthy skin, hair, and teeth

Vitamin C is also a paramount component in the production of collagen which serves as structural support of the skin, hair, teeth, muscle, organs, and other integral parts of the body. It gives strength and flexibility and prevents wrinkling and sagging.


5. Low in calories

Mangoes are low in calories, and do not contain cholesterol. Every 100 gram of this fruit only contains roughly 60 calories.


6. Antioxidant rich

Mango is rich in antioxidant polyphenols which serves to shield the body from harmful environmental free radicals that are responsible for premature aging. It also ensures the health of the cells in the human body. Studies in animals shows that intake of mango has positive outcome in the prevention of heart disease and cancer.


7. Vitamins and minerals

Mango is a good source of Vitamin E, folate, potassium, copper, vitamin B, vitamin K, and manganese, with traces of iron, calcium, and phosphorus.

Humidifier soothes Dry eyes

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Humidifier soothes Dry eyes

November 15, 2019

Humidifier soothes dry eyes

Humidifier for Dry eye Relief -- Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan -- health blog

Excessive screen time, dry climate, hot and cold temperature are notorious environmental culprits that can cause or exacerbate dry eyes as they hasten the rate at which tears evaporate from the surface of the eyes. This is why restoring moisture in the air proves beneficial to control the symptoms of dry eyes.

Humidifier is a device that intoduces moisture into the air. It comes in various sizes that can cater a small area or an entire household. Not to be confused with diffuser which is use on essential oil, although certain types can also serve as humidifier.

In todays modern society, the incorporation of humidifier in households and offices is a practical solution to ease the eye strain brought about by spending too much time checking one's phone or working on a computer. A humidifier sitting on a desk while you fixate on your laptop is soothing.

Generally, an individual involuntarily blinks about 15 to 20 times every minute as a protective mechanism to continually spread a thin film of tears on the surface of the cornea to keep it moist and lubricated, however, substantial amount of screen time significantly lessens this crucial reflex.

Living in arid areas, the onset of summer or winter, or staying in an airconditionsd room can leave the eye dried-up.   Cases such as these can gain relief through the utilization of a humidifier indoors.

Another wonderful health benefit of humidifier is the prevention of common cold and flu, as well as improvement of breathing difficulty in asthma. Furthermore, since humidifier boosts humidity, it can be use to manage dry skin, dry hair, chapped lips, dry cough, and sore throat.

Indeed, eye drop is usually what comes into mind as a first line of dry eye treatment, but it is equally worthwhile to consider the positive effect of humidifier to abate the impact created by the lack of moisture in the air we breath.

Ketogenic diet for Drug-resistant Epilepsy

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Ketogenic diet for Drug-resistant Epilepsy

November 05, 2019

Ketogenic diet for Drug-resistant Epilepsy | healthbiztips

Keto diet, an Alternative Option for Drug-resistant Seizure

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Ketogenic diet has become an alternative treatment for epileptic people when conventional antiseizure medicine fail to prevent an episode, but how can such a dietary regimen alleviate a serious medical condition?

The utilization of ketogenic diet for drug-resistant epilepsy is predominantly utilized in children, although it is not recommended for adults.

The Epilepsy Foundation claimed that:

• Over half of children who go on the diet have at least a 50% reduction in the number of their seizures.
• Some children, usually 10-15%, even become seizure-free.

According to this agency, keto diet proves helpful in medical conditions such as:

• infantile spasms
• Rett syndrome
• tuberous sclerosis complex
• Dravet syndrome
• Doose syndrome
• GLUT-1 deficiency

Studies by Rogawski and colleagues sheds some light into this topic:

Although the exact mechanism of ketogenic diet's success in averting seizure episode is hard to point out, it is known that keto diet's fundamental principle of mimicking the state of starvation induced by fasting is a key factor. However, do note that this diet does not withhold food intake, Instead, it drastically cuts down the portion of carbohydrate a person eats and replaces this main energy source with fat.

Without enough glucose to break down from the scanty carbohydrate, the body switches to fat as it's fuel. Fat is broken down and the liver produces ketone to serve as energy source. At this state, the person is said to be under the state of ketosis in which these ketone bodies floods the bloodstream.

The presence of ketone bodies have several metabolic effects that greatly benefit epileptic people:

• increase in the production of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter
• decrease in the production of glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter
• Increase production of adenosine, an inhibitory neurotransmitter
• Increase in the mitochondrial biogenesis in the hippocampus
• Increase in reduced gutathione (GSH)

Since each patient has varying medical case and history, it is worth knowing that keto diet is not effective for all people so make it a point to consult your health care provider before starting it.


Resources:

Rogawski, M. A., Löscher, W., & Rho, J. M. (2016). Mechanisms of Action of Antiseizure Drugs and the Ketogenic Diet. Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in medicine, 6(5), a022780. doi:10.1101/cshperspect.a022780

Epilepsy Foundation. Ketogenic Diet. https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/dietary-therapies/ketogenic-diet

Why you shouldn't skip Pap Smear?

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Why you shouldn't skip Pap Smear?

October 23, 2019

Why you shouldn't skip Pap Smear? | Healthbiztips

Why you shouldn't skip Pap Smear? | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

There are women who decide not to undergo pap spear because it is an uncomfortable procedure, not aware of the crucial role it has in the fight against cervical cancer. Pap smear is an invasive screening procedure that involves taking cells sample from the cervix and testing it for changes or mutations (precancerous stage) that can later develop into maligancy.

What makes cervical cancer hard to detect is because it doesn't show any sign and symptom during it's precancerous stage. Therefore, by the time a girl feels something is wrong, usually the abnormal changes in the lining of the cervix has already became cancerous.

What is more, cervical cancer is a disease that is gradual in onset which usually takes 1 to 2 decades, thus allowing considerable amount of time to catch it before it gets out of control and spread (metastisize) to other organs of the body.

Taking this into consideration, this makes pap smear a valuable tool in early detection and treatment. It is imperative to catch cervical cancer while it is still on it's precancerous stage since at this point, it's easier to prevent it from advancing to cervical cancer.

When should you have pap smear?

According to the NHS of United Kingdom, women ages 25 to 64 years old are recommended to undergo pap smear test. Screening test should be done once every 3 years for individuals below 50 years of age and every 5 years thereafter.

Is stretch mark a scar?

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Is stretch mark a scar?

October 23, 2019

Is stretch mark a scar?

Is stretch mark a scar? | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

When a stretch mark is examined under a microscope, it resembles the appearance of a scar. This is owing to the fact that stretch mark (aka. striae) is indeed a type of dermal scar.

Being a scar, a stretch mark is permanent although it may fade in color as time goes by. However, besides it's obvious cosmetic problem, it's presence should not be a cause of medical or health concern.

A stretch mark results when there is a sudden pulling, stretching, or shrinking of the skin such is the case when a person undergoes profound weight gain or reduction, seen especially during puberty and pregnancy. These instances damages the supporting structures of the skin, namely collagen and elastin, which leads to scarring as it heals.

Collagen is one of the key structure to maintain the integrity of the skin. Cases in which the collagen content if the skin is depleted such as among people who use corticosteroids over a long period of time have a considerably higher chance of  developing stretch marks.

In spite the fact that a stretch mark is there forever, it tends to lighten in color although it may be quite lengthy. A typical stretch mark initially emerge as a raised pink, red, brown, or purple narrow slim streaks on the skin but as years go by, these usually fades into flat white lines. Furthermore, stretch marks don't darken in color when you tan your skin.

How Plastic particles Terrorize the Air and Lodge into your Lungs

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How Plastic particles Terrorize the Air and Lodge into your Lungs

October 14, 2019

How Plastic particles Terrorize the Air and Lodge into your Lungs | photo credit: Stephen Leonardi @stephenleo1982 @unsplash

How Plastic particles Terrorize the Air and Lodge into your Lungs | Healthbiztips

Healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Microplastic or tiny plastic particles has polluted not just the land and sea, but also the air we breath. How come this happen?

Let's take a look at a common household: plastic storage boxes, food containers, water bottles, dishware, pipes, laptop case, device charger, children toys, and many others. Seems all harmless right? Although, they seem solid enough to contain themselves, in the presence of heat, friction, and even light, small plastic particles can dislodge and mix with room air.

Since these microscopic plastic particles are easily suspended, studies found that air indoor has a relatively higher concentration of these microscopic plastic particles than the outside. You know what that means? Plastic pollutes your supposedly safe haven.


That's not all, we have a lot more plastic than we realize. Did you know that synthetic fabric dominates the clothing and textile industry to such an extent that it comprises more than half our garmens, but guess what's in it--plastic! Polyester is notably the main offender. Turns out plastic is winning all sorts of race because it has such outstanding qualities, namely it's cheap but durable. Chances are, you're wearing one without even realizing it.

If you look closer into those fibers that make up you clothe, they don't all seem willing to stay there, do they?

Let's turn to personal care products. Yes, those stuffs people apply on their skin. Microbeads are plastic particles which are even smaller than microplastics and they are added to facial and skincare products like exfoliating facial wash, soap, and toothpaste.

While a microplastic is less than 5 millimeters in size,  a microbead is less than 1 millimeter.

Once microscopic plastic is inhaled by a human, it can lodge deep inside the lungs, however it can not be removed by the mere act of exhalation. These plastic particles can cause a range of health problems such as the destruction of lung tissues, asthma attack and increased risk of cancer.

Moreover, microplastic can find it's way into the bloodstream, by the same token breathed air is transported into the blood, and end up accumulating in various internal organs.


Plastic is everywhere. We see an emerging era of plastic pollution, an infestation which keeps getting worse as years goes by.

So you see, plastic is indeed in every single one of us and that may very well be the reality if these things aren't regulated enough. With convenience comes dire consequence.

How can we enjoy our stay in this planet without destroying it?

Why ditch red meat in exchange for fish?

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Why ditch red meat in exchange for fish?

October 13, 2019

Why ditch red meat in exchange for fish | Healthbiztips | photo credit: Wesual Click @wesual @unsplash

Why ditch red meat in exchange for fish | Healthbiztips | health blog

Healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan

Since there is an increasing body of evidence that red meat in the diet contributes significantly to premature aging and chronic diseases such as arthritis, asthma, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and heart disease, seeking an alternative protein source in the form of fish is seen as as healthy option.

Here lies the question why fish is widely recognized as a superior food choice?

Perks of a fish dish

To begin with, fatty fish such as tuna and salmon have high amounts of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid which exerts an anti-inflammatory effect that, in contrary to red meat, prevents the onset of health problems mentioned earlier.

Another good reason is fishes mostly have substantially lower content of saturated fats and cholesterol compare to red meat which makes it a suitable meal to prevent the onset of cardiovascular problems such as atherosclerosis.

Among the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids are:

• albacore
• cod
• halibut
• herring
• lake trout
• mackerel
• salmon
• sardines
• snapper
• tuna

How much fish should you eat? Based on the recommendation set by the American Heart Association, a serving of 2 fatty fish each week is sufficient. That's roughly 3.5 ounce cooked, or about three quarters of a cup flaked fish.

However, it is worth contemplating that the nutritional and caloric value of all fish is not equal. Take for example milkfish and tilapia, both of which have elevated amount of saturated fats.


Issues and concern

On the other hand, the safety of consuming aquatic animals has become a global concern for the past decades due to sea pollution, particularly that of plastic, mercury, and the carcinogen PCBs.

You wouldn't want plastic as your meal, however our sea nowadays is notoriously infested by small bits of plastic or microplastics which in turn is devoured by fishes. Now, if you closely into the foodchain then you'll know where that microplastic can find it's way, namely your gut and organs.

Plastic particles have been found even in the deepest part of the ocean which reflects just how bad marine life has been infested.

Another serious affliction is that caused by the mercury, a chemical pollutant that is detrimental to the formation of a fetus, neurological development, and functioning of organs. Thus, U.S. FDA warns regarding fishes that have high levels of mercury which pregnant women and children should avoid, namely:

• king mackerel
• shark
• swordfish
• tilefish

Instead, seafoods with low levels of mercury are:

• catfish
• salmon
• tuna

The changing times have greatly affected  the quality of fish we consume. Sounds scary?

Let's look back into the red meat. The administration of hormone to cow with the intent of increasing their body build and milk production is still widely debated, although regulating bodies claim that the levels injected into these animals are within acceptable range.

Does paraben increases the risk of breast cancer?

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Does paraben increases the risk of breast cancer?

October 07, 2019

Does paraben increases the risk of breast cancer? | Healthbiztips | photo credit: Pawel Czerwinski @pawel_czerwinski

Does paraben increases the risk of breast cancer? | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Paraben, a common additive found in beauty and personal care products, has been associated with an increased risk of development of breast cancer, despite this, it continues to be in widespread usage.

Breast cancer is one of the leading cause of deaths across the globe. In fact, it's prevalence is alarmingly notorious among women, along side skin cancer.

Did you know that our body can easily absorb paraben even through an intact skin. This preservative can leach into the blood and be detectable in the urine of those who are exposed to it. Furthermore, samples from amniotic fluid revealed that this chemical can even seep into the unborn child.

How paraben works is that it disrupts the hormone balance in the body as it closely resembles the property of estrogen which in turn enhances the growth of cancer cells. Despite the fact that paraben is a languid estrogen copycat, laboratory studies shows that it still exerts the ability to hasten the growth of tumor.

There are several types of parabens which includes butylparaben and methylparaben.

Even with the presence of studies pointing out the detrimental effect of paraben on a person's health, companies still continues to include it in various items common folks use in their everyday life because of it's practical and cost effective purpose which is to increase the manufactured items' shelf life.

In  addition,  paraben isn't just present in the things a woman commonly apply on her face or skin, but it can be among the ingredients found in processed foods and medications.

Taking these information into consideration, it is the duty of a well-informed consumer to make the right choice. To avoid the health repercussions involved with using paraben containing products, opt for paraben free cosmetic and beauty products instead. Shift to all-natural beauty and cosmetic brand. Make sure you read a products label and skim over it's ingredients.


Resources:

Gray, J. M., Rasanayagam, S., Engel, C., & Rizzo, J. (2017). State of the evidence 2017: an update on the connection between breast cancer and the environment. Environmental health : a global access science source, 16(1), 94. doi:10.1186/s12940-017-0287-4

Pan, S., Yuan, C., Tagmount, A., Rudel, R. A., Ackerman, J. M., Yaswen, P., … Leitman, D. C. (2016). Parabens and Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Ligand Cross-Talk in Breast Cancer Cells. Environmental health perspectives, 124(5), 563–569. doi:10.1289/ehp.1409200

Are DIY Braces and Retainers Safe? | Healthbiztips

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Are DIY Braces and Retainers Safe? | Healthbiztips

August 02, 2019

Are DIY Braces and Retainers Safe? | Healthbiztips
photo credit: Erick Tang @erictang2769 @unsplash

Are DIY Braces and Retainers Safe? | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Is do-it-yourself braces foolproof? Let me just tell you that installing braces and dental retainers is the job of a licensed dentist. Now, tell me when was the last time you were good at being an orthodontic? If the answer is never, then you're safety is already jeopardized. This stuff is absolutely unsafe.

I'm not saying you shouldn't trust yourself. After all, we do have to love our self more. You may argue that there is a step by step instruction that will actually help you with the entire process. I hate to say this, but that instruction you rely on is not the actual stuff dentists do in real life.

I know Facebook and YouTube tutorials sounds credible, but in reality, dentist don't use rubber bands and made up wires to close the gap between teeth. Those diy braces and retainers marketed are not regulated, because if they were, they would be nonexistent. There are cases when substandard materials used on diy braces lead to dental infection and teeth loss.

There are just so many dentist wannabe out there.

If, for some reason, which may be due to price disparity, you still feel empower to put on your very own diy braces, then, you have nothing to fear but yourself. I mean, how bad can you be?

Have you seen those diy stuffs people did which turn out to be a complete nightmare. What's the chance that this diy brace thing can end up badly? If you search "diy braces gone wrong" then you'll have a good idea how bad this thing is. It can cost you more than what you've bargained for.

What can be more terrifying than loosing your teeth because of your own stupid dental decision to try a do-it-yourself brace?

Besides, I'm not putting all the blame on you for making diy braces and retainers such a terrible idea. For ages, humans have tried what seems like crazy and unbelievable stuffs for the sake of aesthetic and beauty. We can all be victims of our impulse, peer pressure, and sheer lack of ignorance. Furthermore, real dental work can be really expensive. Shouldn't diy braces have a silver lining, even just a tiny hope to make your smile perfect?

I know you're broke, but want your teeth fixed. I know you can't afford to go to the dentist but, let's just answer the very thing this blog post is supposed to answer: Are DIY Braces and Retainers Safe? The answer is still a "No!"

We'll, I guess there's a really a doctor in each one of us, which can be really horrifying.

Did you know that you can actually file a lawsuit on someone for medical malpractice? Yeah, that's right. Now you know that not everyone can legally practice dentistry.

Hey, since we're on the topic of putting the blame on somebody, why don't we blame the manufacturers and sellers of diy braces and retainers. Why do this product have to exist in the first place?

It is incredible how DIY Braces is such a huge industry. Why wouldn’t it be when it’s generally unsafe, ineffective, illegal, and best of all, it's cheap.

If you can't afford to buy a diy brace kit, then at it's simplest form, all you need is a good 'ol rubber band and a tooth of your choice that you'd like to sacrifice. Yep, because you're more likely not gonna fix anything.

#diybraces

Why Fat-shaming is Horrible?

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Why Fat-shaming is Horrible?

July 23, 2019

Why Fat-shaming is Horrible? | Healthbiztips 
photo credit : Aliyah Jamous @aliyahjam @unsplash

Why Fat-shaming is Horrible? | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Fat-shaming is criticizing overweight people regarding their weight. If you think about it, humiliating  or mocking someone on the basis of their mass sounds rude and inappropriate.


Fat-shaming is wrong

Did you know that there are tons of things you can do to make your fellow uncomfortable. For example, staring at someone for an awfully long period of time.

If staring at someone can raise that level of annoyance, then imagine bullying people about their weight. The consequence is retaliation and outrage in a global scale.

Yes, that person can be fat, but it is no excuse to make fun or throw hurtful comments to them. You can't imagine what they're going through. The psychological effect of fat-shaming is devastating.



Word Destroy

There are individuals who argue that being overweight or obese is unhealthy and can in fact lead to serious health repercussions like diabetes and cancer. This argument is popularly use by people who encourage fat-shaming to justify their act. You can't wipe your hands clean by using this as an excuse to bully someone.

Unfortunately, fat-shaming is not a motivational tool, nor an act that raises people's health consciousness. It's a destructive force that can leave havoc to a person's mental and physical health.

Research shows that subjecting overweight people to fat-shaming are more likely to consume more calories. Furthermore, these acts of shaming can increase a person's risk of developing depression, and eating disorder.

Know this, even overweight people who watched a fat-shaming video also have a high tendency to overeat.



Depression and Suicide

You do not know what that person is going through so be careful with your words. There are plenty of factors that can lead to obesity like genetics, medical condition, post traumatic stress disorder, stress, anxiety,  depression, and other mental health problems. So, don't take loosing weight as a light matter.

Fat-shaming makes it worse for those people who experience and seen it. It's a form of bullying that increase a person's risk of depression.

At it's worse, depression can compel a person to take his or her life.


Bottom line is be careful with your words as they can have serious effect to a person, a community, countries, the Internet, and even to you.

Does Alkaline Water Treatment effectively Cures Cancer?

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Does Alkaline Water Treatment effectively Cures Cancer?

July 11, 2019

Does Alkaline Water Treatment effectively Cures Cancer | Healthbiztips
photo credit: mrjn Photography @_mrjn_esf @unsplash

Does Alkaline Water Treatment effectively Cures Cancer | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

The notion that drinking alkaline water efficiently kills cancer lies in the fact that cancer cells do not thrive in an alkaline environment. However, there is no scientific evidence that backs up this claim.

The effectiveness of alkaline water as an alternative natural treatment for cancer remains shrouded in controversy. While cancer cell can not thrive in a environment with high levels of alkalinity, so is the human body.

The normal blood pH level, which ranges from 7.35 - 7.45, is in fact alkaline. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, in which 7 is considered the neutral pH. pH level above 7 is alkaline, while ranges below 7 is acidic.

When blood pH level increase in alkalinity in which it's range exceeds 7.45, disruptions in the bodily processes occurs which can manifest as symptoms that includes nausea, vomiting, dizziness, muscle spasm, confusion, difficulty of breathing, and can progress to coma and even death.


What is alkaline water?

Unlike normal water which has a neutral pH, alkaline water has a pH range of 8 to 9. Even so, since the human body has an internal mechanism of keeping blood pH level within normal range, under normal condition, drinking alkaline water does not affect the pH of the blood.

You have to understand that keeping the blood pH level within normal range is critical to survival. Any deviation from the normal range can prove disruptive and deadly.


In conclusion, if you'd like to purchase alkaline water, it's relatively safe to drink, but not a proven effective treatment to heal cancer.

Extreme Yoga poses Injures Osteoporotic bone

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Extreme Yoga poses Injures Osteoporotic bone

July 08, 2019

Extreme Yoga poses Injures Osteoporotic bone | Healthbiztips
photo credit: Form @theformfitness @unsplash

Is yoga an ideal exercise for people with osteoporosis? | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

While yoga, as a form of physical exercise, is a great way to improve mobility and strength in people with osteoporosis, research reveals that yoga poses that exerts great pressure on the spine can cause injury and fracture.

Individuals with osteoporosis have reduce bone density which makes their bones weak and vulnerable to pressure. Therefore, they should avoid physical activity that puts extreme pressure and stress on their bones.

Yoga is considered a low to medium intensity exercise which many people find appealing because of it's simplicity and incredible health benefits. It is undeniable that doing yoga does grant individuals with several health advantages such as increase joint mobility, improve muscle strength, and reduce weight.

It is worth knowing that yoga takes various forms. Yoga can incorporate meditation, breathing exercise, and physical poses in varying pacing and intensity. While there are strenuous poses, there are low impact yoga poses that does not compromise the spine which people with osteoarthritis can safely practice in general.

It is recommended that those afflicted with osteoporosis consult with their health care provider or physical therapist to create a suitable exercise regimen that is customized to their physical ability and health needs.

Osteoporosis causes the bone to become fragile so it is crucial to avoid too much exertion on it. It's not just extreme yoga poses that osteoporotic individual should be wary of. Any physical activity that puts intense weight, or flexes or extends the spine excessively can have serious repercussion.

Resource:

Mayo Clinic. "People with osteoporosis should avoid spinal poses in yoga, study says." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 21 February 2019. https://www.sciencedaily.com/

Cannabis reduces Empathy

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Cannabis reduces Empathy

July 02, 2019

Cannabis reduces Empathy | Healthbiztips
photo credit: Robert Zunikoff @rzunikoff @unsplash

Cannabis reduces Empathy | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | psychology blog | health blog

What if I tell you that there is a substance that can weaken your ability to understand emotions and empathize with other people. That's just tragic because a person's capability to read the emotion of others is a crucial part of social interaction and emotional intelligence. What is it?

It's cannabis.

Surrounded with controversy, cannabis is prized for it's medical and recreational use. You may be more familiar with it's other name--marijuana. It's considered an illicit drug in parts of the world.

Research reveal that cannabis users have smaller region of the brain in the part known as left rostral anterior cingulate cortex which controls the ability to empathize and process emotion.

Individuals who use cannabis have reduced ability in discriminating positive facial expressions such as those of happiness and sadness. On the contrary, cannabis users were found to have higher capability to detect faces showing negative emotions like fear and anger.

Cannabis contains bioactive components which alters the chemicals and neurotransmitter in the brain that leads to behavior and cognitive changes. Individuals who tend to use cannabis more frequently have been shown to have more pronounced difficulty in identifying emotions.

It's not just emotional awareness that cannabis tampers with. The consumption of this substance have known effects both mentally and physically:

• inability to concentrate
• cognitive deficit
• difficulty making sound decision
• decrease risk perception
• changes in appetite
• alteration in sleep pattern

Resources:

Troup LJ, Bastidas S, Nguyen MT, Andrzejewski JA, Bowers M, Nomi JS (2016) An Event-Related Potential Study on the Effects of Cannabis on Emotion Processing. PLoS ONE 11(2): e0149764. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0149764

source: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0149764

Green Tea, a cheap Home Remedy for UTI

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Green Tea, a cheap Home Remedy for UTI

June 29, 2019

Green Tea, a cheap Home Remedy for UTI | Healthbiztips

Green Tea, a cheap Home Remedy for UTI | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | Health blog

Green tea offers a promising home remedy for urinary tract infection because it has an antibacterial component in the form of polyphenols which effectively destroys disease causing microbes such Escherichia coli.

Brewed from the leaves of Camellia sinensis, green tea is a cheap and accessible alternative treatment for the infection of the urinary tract. It's catechin content not only eradicates disease causing germs, but also enhances the effect of antimicrobial medications.

When a person drinks brewed green tea, it's catechin content EGC is excreted through the urinary system where it exerts it's antimicrobial activity.

This adds up the amazing list of green tea's incredible health benefits. It really is a healthy beverage that's among the most famed globally for it's rich taste and marvelous advantages to the wellbeing.



What is urinary tract infection (UTI)?

Urinary tract infection is the infiltration and spread of pathogenic microorganism within the urinary system (urethra, ureter, urinary bladder, kidney).

Escherichia coli, the common gut bacteria is the most common culprit of UTI. Women are particularly more prone to develop UTI because of the proximity of their urethra to the urinary bladder.

Common signs and symptoms of urinary tract infection includes:

• pain when urinating
• frequency in urination
• cloudy or foul smelling urine
• nausea and vomiting

Resources:

Noormandi, A., & Dabaghzadeh, F. (2014). Effects of green tea on Escherichia coli as a uropathogen. Journal of traditional and complementary medicine, 5(1), 15–20. doi:10.1016/j.jtcme.2014.10.005

Reygaert, W., & Jusufi, I. (2013). Green tea as an effective antimicrobial for urinary tract infections caused by Escherichia coli. Frontiers in microbiology, 4, 162. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2013.00162

Is it healthier to drink your tea cold or hot?

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Is it healthier to drink your tea cold or hot?

June 22, 2019

Is it healthier to drink your tea cold or hot? | Healthbiztips
photo credit: Monika Grabkowska @moniqa @unsplash

Hot tea vs. cold tea: which is the healthier choice | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

If your want to squeeze out the most health benefits from your cup of tea, should you drink it hot or cold?


Brewing tea leaves or tea bag using hot water for an optimal period of time, which is about 3-5 minutes is crucial to harness it's antioxidant contents like flavanoids. Tea's antioxidant content is vulnerable to oxygen, so if you let it sit in open air to cool down, then a portion of it's antioxidant content gets destroyed.

Commercially available cold bottled tea generally contains less antioxidants because of the processing these teas have undergone. If you're preparing a home made ice tea, then your're making a healthier beverage because it generally undergo less processing which enables the beverage to retain more antioxidants compared to those commercially sold ones.

In general, tea delivers your more antioxidant and health benefits when you consume it freshly made hot. Just make it a point that you still let it cool down a bit to such a point that it doesn't burn your tongue.

If you decide to make your own version of home made ice tea, then it's definitely a healthier choice compared to those bottled teas in the market since you'll get more antioxidants with zero preservatives.

If you're gonna be making a cold tea drink, then you still have to steep it. Steeping your tea for several hours in room temperature is necessary in order to harness it's antioxidant content. If you compare those hours with the average of 5 minute time it takes to steep a hot tea drink, then, you'll realize it'll take more patience.


Tea is one of the healthiest beverage known to humanity. It's packed full of antioxidants that has several health benefits to the body

Do you prefer to drink your tea hot or cold? We have our individual preference but at times, the choice between a hot or a cold tea drink depends on the weather. If it's a chilly morning, then downing a steaming cup of tea serves the body well. On the other hand, enjoying cold tea drink during the summer can help you avoid heat stroke. Just make it a point to never drink a cold drink straight up in cases when you're body temperature is high like when you've jogged or been under the sun for too long, because it can be fatal due to cold shock response.

Is it true that talking to yourself makes you smarter?

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Is it true that talking to yourself makes you smarter?

June 14, 2019

Is it true that talking to yourself makes you smarter? | Healthbiztips

 
Is it true that talking to yourself makes you smarter? | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | psychology blog

I've found psychology blogs online pointing out that talking to yourself makes you smarter. That's great because I know there's a lot of people who want to boost their brain power, right?

I thought to myself how cool this is but I got disappointed when I got to the real answer.

According to the research conducted by G. Lupyan from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a self-directed speech, not a conversational self talk, can increase your focus.

So, my nonsensical self-speeches do not count at all. I should have known better. Striking a conversation with yourself (I mean, a real talk) still looks strange so you won't want other people to see that part of you. You know, just in case people speculate about your social life.

To make it short, you're only boosting your brain power when giving yourself instruction regarding something you're currently engaged with or when you're discussing with yourself things you've learned.

Say, you're trying to find a familiar object in a grocery store, then repeating the name of that object verbally increases your attention into finally finding that thing.

Research revealed that the strategy of repeating a familiar object's name will increase your speed of finding that object in a grocery store by up to 50 to 100 milliseconds.

Ironically, doing the same strategy to find an foreign object proves to be a handicap. Turns out chanting an unfamiliar object's name doesn't make it any more recognizable in a sea of stuffs.


In conclusion, you get smarter by increasing your focus on the task at hand by speaking out about the current task your have to accomplish and reciting things you've learned to improve your memory about that subject.

10 Facts about Collagen

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10 Facts about Collagen

June 12, 2019

10 Facts about Collagen | Healthbiztips

10 Facts about Collagen | Healthbiztips

Collagen is a protein which is commonly associated with the youthful and wrinkle-free appearance of the skin because it provides strength and flexibility. This protein is abundantly found in the skin. In fact, collagen makes up about 75% of your skin.

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

1. Collagen isn't just found in your skin. In fact, it provides structural support to most of your cells and tissues like your cornea, hair, nail, teeth, bone, blood vessels, lungs, muscle, tendon, cartilage, connective tissues, and internal organs.


2. The word "collagen" is derived from the Greek word "kólla" which means glue.


3. Collagen is the most abundant protein in humans as it makes up about 25% to 35% of total proteins found in the human body and it's main function is to provide structural support.


4. There are about 25 kinds of collagen found in the human body? Approximately 12 kinds of collagen is exclusively found in the skin.


5. As we age, our ability to produce collagen diminishes which leads to wrinkling and sagging.


6. There's a chance a person can be allergic to cosmetically applied collagen.


7. You may be familiar with the food gelatin, but did you know that it's actually made up of broken down collagen. Yummy?


8. The 5 common type of collagen are:

• Type I : found in skin, cornea, dentin of teeth, blood vessels, tendon, and bones
• Type II: found in cartilage
• Type III: found in reticular fiber in the bone marrow and lymphoid tissues
• Type IV: found in the basement membrane of tissues
• Type V: found in the hair and placenta

9. 90% of the collagen found in the human body is type I collagen.


10. By 2018, there have been 40 subtypes of collagen identified.

20 Facts about Vitamin C

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20 Facts about Vitamin C

June 12, 2019

20 Facts about Vitamin C | Healthbiztips
photo credit: Brooke Lark @brookelark @unsplash

20 Facts about Vitamin C | Healthbiztips

You may recognize Vitamin C as the vitamin you take to boost your immune system, especially during times when you want to avoid getting infected with a disease such as common cold.

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Let's dive into the facts about Vitamin C.


1. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that's popular in preventing and reversing premature aging, boosting the immune system, and repairing cell damages.


2. Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin which means your body is not capable of storing it.


3. Humans eliminate vitamin C through urination. Therefore, they have to replenish this vitamin through their diet.


4. The dietary reference intake for Vitamin C for adult is 75 mg for female and 90 mg for male.


5. The recommended dietary allowance for Vitamin C is:

• 0-6 months:  40 mg
• 7-12 months:  50 mg
• 1-3 yrs:  15 mg
• 4-8 yrs:  25 mg
• 9-13 yrs male:  45 mg
• 9-13 yrs female:  45 mg
• 14-18 yrs male: 75 mg
• 14-18 yrs female: 65 mg
• 19-70 yrs male:  90 mg
• 19-70 yrs female: 75 mg
• 14-18 yrs pregnant:  80 mg
• 19-50 yrs pregnant:  85 mg
• 14-18 yrs breastfeeding mother: 115 mg
• 19-30 yrs breastfeeding mother: 120 mg

6. The upper limit of daily vitamin C intake is 2000 mg. Too much intake of Vitamin C can cause nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, fatigue, insomnia, drowsiness, and flushed skin.


7. Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid.


8. Vitamin C has an anti-inflammatory property.


9. Vitamin C is unstable. It degrades easily when expose to sunlight and extremes of temperature.


10. Taking Vitamin C can decrease the duration of certain diseases.


11. Vitamin C is essential to the normal functioning of a human body that without it, you will develop a disease called "scurvy" which is characterized by swelling of the gums, falling off of teeth, bleeding, muscle pain, and anemia. Scurvy can lead to death if left untreated.


12. Vitamin C is easy to find. You can easily obtain vitamin C from fruits, vegetables, and enriched processed foods.


13. If you want to increase your gut's non heme iron absorption from plant sources, consume iron-rich foods together with Vitamin C.


14. You need Vitamin C in order for your body to make collagen. Collagen is the most abundant protein found in the human body that makes up the structural support of skin, muscle, tendons, cartilage, blood vessels, and internal organs.


15. Humans can't produce vitamin C so they have to get this essential vitamin from the foods and beverages that they consume.


16. Among the best sources of Vitamin C includes citrus fruits, strawberries, grapefruits, guava, kiwifruits, broccoli, peppers, spinach, cauliflower, tomatoes, papaya, and pineapples.


17. Vitamin C has been revealed in several research to prevent the development of cancer.


18. Your body needs Vitamin C in order to manufacture carnitine, a compound that facilitates the transport of fat into the cells.


19. Without Vitamin C, your body will not be able to produce the neurotransmitter norepenephrine.


20. Research has shown that even high intake of Vitamin C does not increase a person's risk of developing kidney stones.