Moreover, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, distanced learning is the safest way to continue your education without putting yourself or your loved ones at risk.

Whether you’re opting for online learning at the high-school level or working on a degree, you will need to take up some new habits to transition smoothly from the classroom to your computer. It will help you maintain discipline and create a productive learning space for yourself.

To help you out, here are some healthy habits for distance learning that you should incorporate into your lifestyle today.

• Organization is Essential

In traditional schools, we are pre-assigned classes and have to stick to a schedule. This makes for easy organization and allows us to stay on track. But when you opt for distanced learning, you will be in charge of your organization.

The flexibility that comes with studying online is truly a blessing, especially for those who are also working. However, you will need to take specific measures to ensure it stays a blessing a doesn’t end up with you cramming everything two nights before the finals.

Build a proper learning schedule for yourself and allow time for video lectures, assignments, and any other extra prep you may need. Consider the extra time some courses may require and do your best not to fall behind. Everything taught today should be covered on the same day, and try to revise it all during the weekend to ensure you haven’t missed anything.

It will also help if you keep all your documents, lectures, assignments, reading material, etc. in specified folders on your computer. Don’t let them accumulate in one place and create a big, confusing mess. Your concentration and motivation will take a significant dive if you have to rummage through tons of files every time.

• Dedicate a Work Zone

One of the most common mistakes distanced learners make is casually switching up their work zones and taking lectures from the bed, living room couches, etc.

Although it’s quite tempting to wake up and attend your class while still in bed, it is highly likely that you’ll fall asleep again and miss out on some vital information. To avoid this, dedicate a particular area of your house to be your work zone.

It doesn’t have to be the entire room or a fancy set up; just a table and chair is enough. But make sure it has all the things you will require during your study period like chargers, cables, notebooks, etc. This will ensure you don’t need to leave the work zone until you finish studying and keeps distractions away.

• Pay Attention During the Video Lectures 

It is a common misconception among distanced learners that live video lectures aren’t too important since you can view them later. However, that is not true.

Attending live lectures will help you understand challenging concepts a lot better. You can quickly request your lecturer to repeat a certain point or even clarify any doubts you may have. While it can be done over email, it is always easier to grasp new information when taught directly to you.

Also, making notes as the professor teaches is one of the most productive means of retaining knowledge. These notes will be your savior during finals week.

• Multitasking isn’t Beneficial Here.

Multitasking can be an excellent way of managing your time and energy efficiently. But when it comes you distanced learning, try to set aside your multitasking superpowers and focus solely on your coursework.

Since studying requires a higher level of concentration than our daily errands, it is near impossible to manage it effectively while also doing other things. Your brain isn’t programmed to deep-focus on multiple things at once, so your assignments will take longer, and you’re more prone to making errors.

It will also slow you down since your attention is divided between different things, and you won’t be able to do any of them properly.

So, keep the multitasking for cleaning, shopping, or other household errands. Study time is for the books only.

• Bring Together a Group

Meeting up with friends, gossiping by the lockers, and study dates were some of the things we looked forward to the most at school. You may think distanced learning doesn’t allow for those things, but that’s not true!

Remote collaboration won’t be the same as saving your friend a seat in class; however, you can bring together a group of peers to study together, exchange notes, and even have some fun.

Try to reach out to classmates and determine who lives nearby. Create a WhatsApp group of your peers and keep in touch with each other. You can also arrange meetups and group study sessions, online or even at your favorite coffee shop!

• Take Frequent Breaks

When you’re studying online, there is a lack of interaction and exposure to new people and places. The human brain isn’t designed to sit in one place and study for 7 hours continuously. You will end up exhausting yourself and barely remembering half the information you tried to cover.

To make sure you have a useful learning experience, take frequent breaks in between your study sessions. We recommend aiming for a 30 mins break after every 90 minutes of study time.

During this break, try to get a change of scenery. Go out for a walk, maybe stop by your favorite pizzeria for a bite to eat, and then head back to finish off your studying for the day. This quick location change and some fresh food will do wonders to help you focus, and your memory will improve too!

Final Words

2020 brought with it circumstances that have altered the way we function entirely. From the way we study, how we socialize, and even just walking around the block – nothing is the same now. But we should remember that this is temporary, keep our spirits high and keep being our unique, resilient selves.

Best of luck on your distanced learning journey!

Hypertension is harmful to your body in a lot of ways. The main damage occurs to the heart and blood vessels because they have to work much harder. It causes damage and plaque formation inside arteries over time due to the increased friction. This causes a narrowing of the arteries, which causes blood pressure to rise even more and a vicious cycle of harm to your internal organs.

Long-term high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, arrhythmia, and stroke. It needs swift identification and treatment. Keep reading to see how your doctor can diagnose hypertension and what blood pressure medications you can use if you have HBP.

Diagnosing Hypertension

Your doctor needs to take at least three blood pressure readings on each appointment for three or more appointments (nine readings in total). This is because blood pressure can vary throughout the day and can be affected by circumstances or other conditions.

A BP reading has two values: a systolic pressure (pressure in arteries when heartbeats) and diastolic pressure (pressure in arteries between heartbeats)

Blood pressure measurements can broadly be categorized into four types:

• Normal BP: A blood pressure reading below 120/80mm Hg and higher than 90/60 mm Hg is considered normal.
• Elevated BP: A systolic pressure of 120 to 129 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure reading under 80 mm Hg is a sign of elevated BP. Elevated BP can get worse over time if it’s not controlled.
• Stage 1 Hypertension: Consistently getting blood pressure readings of 130-139/80-89 mm Hg.
• Stage 2 Hypertension: Consistently getting blood pressure readings higher than 140/90 mm Hg.

In patients over age 50, systolic blood pressure readings are even more important than diastolic ones because some people can have isolated systolic hypertension.

Once you’ve been diagnosed with hypertension, your doctor has a choice of blood pressure medications he/she can prescribe. Let’s check them out.

Blood Pressure Medications

Here are the possible types of blood pressure medications your doctor might prescribe.

Diuretics (Water Pills)

A diuretic is uniquely created to remove excess sodium and water from your body, thus reducing the volume of fluid flowing through your blood vessels. This is effective in reducing pressure on the walls of your blood vessels. They’re usually the first blood pressure medications your doctor will try.

There are three types of diuretics, and each affects a different part of your kidney. Choosing one or the other will depend on your health and what your doctor wants to treat.

• Thiazide: They are the most commonly used diuretics. Examples include: Chlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, etc.
• Potassium-sparing: Amiloride, Eplerenone, Triamterene, and Spironolactone are potassium-sparing diuretics.
• Loop: Bumetanide, Ethacrynic acid, Torsemide and Furosemide are all loop diuretics.

Diuretics are quite safe and well tolerated. Common side effects can be sodium loss and frequent urination.

They can also affect the levels of potassium in your blood. Thiazide can drop blood potassium levels too low, while a potassium-sparing diuretic can cause them to be too high. Speak with your doctor about risks.

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)

This class of blood pressure medications works by blocking the action of Angiotensin, which is a chemical that narrows blood vessels in your body. This helps widen blood vessels and aid blood flow to reduce blood pressure.

ARBs are typically prescribed for individuals who are unable to take ACE inhibitors (more on this later). Here are some examples of ARBs:

• Avapro
• Cozaar
• Micardis
• Teveten
• Diovan
• Atacand
• Benicar

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors

ACE inhibitors work by stopping the production of Angiotensin, rather than their function like ARBs. ACE inhibitors are usually a better choice for younger patients than older ones. It’s also not recommended to be taken with NSAIDs, as they make ACEs less effective.

ACE inhibitors can be found under the following names:

• Benazepril
• Lisinopril
• Moexipril
• Captopril
• Quinapril
• Ramipril
• Trandolapril
• Enalapril
• Fosinopril
• Perindopril

Calcium Channel Blockers

Calcium channel blockers work by preventing calcium from entering the cells of your arteries and heart. This allows your blood vessels to relax and open up because calcium causes stronger contractions of arteries and the heart.

They may often be prescribed with other blood pressure medications. Calcium channel blockers can be long-acting or short-acting. Short-acting types will work fast and have more potent effects but will last only a few hours.

Examples include:

• Nisoldipine
• Verapamil
• Amlodipine
• Diltiazem
• Felodipine
• Isradipine
• Nifedipine
• Nicardipine

Beta Blockers

Beta blockers block the effects of adrenaline, medically known as the hormone epinephrine. Their main job is to make your heartbeat slower and with less intensity.

They usually aren’t the first treatment your doctor would recommend for high BP because of some risks. But if diuretics and other options are not working, beta blockers are an effective option.

Here are some beta blockers:

• Acebutolol
• Atenolol
• Bisoprolol
• Nebivolol
• Propranolol
• Metoprolol
• Nadolol

Renin Inhibitors

These medications block the production of renin, a substance that causes a knock-on effect of increased blood pressure. Renin inhibitors contain Aliskiren, which slows renin production and therefore reduces blood pressure.

These blood pressure medications are not commonly used.

Final Advice

While blood pressure medications can be very useful, they should only be used after lifestyle changes are unable to solve your hypertension.

Some lifestyle changes you should try are:

• Avoid smoking.
• Manage stress.
• Get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day.
• Limit alcohol intake.
• Maintain a healthy BMI/weight.
• Eat a healthy diet.

These lifestyle changes should be a part of your routine whether or not you’re on blood pressure medications. Using a combination of a healthy lifestyle and effective medications, most individuals can successfully manage hypertension and live normal lives.

Pregnancy which happens at the age of 19 years or younger is known as teenage pregnancy. A female could get pregnant when having sexual activity after she started having her regular menstrual cycle. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source, in 2017, reveals that about 194,000 infants have been born to American girls among the ages of 15 to 19. Even though the number of pregnancies has been decreasing in the United States, it remains higher among other developed countries.

Signs and Symptoms:

The pregnancy would be first realized when female skip her regular period. But if getting very light period then it should not be assumed that it could not be a pregnancy because having a little bleeding during the first few weeks of pregnancy is possible. Signs of pregnancy include:

• Missed or very light period
• Inflammation of breast
• Nausea, frequently in the morning
• Vomiting
• Feeling dizziness
• Fainting and unconsciousness
• Weight gaining
• Feeling exhausted
• Swelling abdomen

Teenage Pregnancy Affecting Mothers

Teenagers are at a greater probability for pregnancy-related high blood pressure (preeclampsia) and its obstacles than average age mothers. It also includes risks for babies includes premature birth and low birth weight. Moreover, Preeclampsia can also damage the kidneys or may cause death of mother or a baby. Anemia is common in teenage pregnancies which causes reduction in the number of red blood cells (RBC) and women may feel weak and tired. It affects the development of the baby.

According to World Health Organization (WHO), teenage pregnancy causes most serious complications and is the leading cause of death during child delivery. Teen pregnant women usually feel frightened, concerned, and anxious about telling their families and friends. Therefore, they do not get support, which is needed, and person may feel isolated and depressed. This can make the several complications and may also affect the baby’s health. In many cases, pregnant teens cut off their education and lives in poverty. Several studies found that a woman with little or no education having multiple children to look after, will find it very difficult to make a living. Besides, women who got their first pregnancy in teenage are more expected to have more than one child.

Teenage Pregnancy Affecting Babies

Usual pregnancies last for 40 weeks. a childbirth before 37 weeks of pregnancy is premature and is termed as premature birth. According to research, teen mothers usually give birth to premature babies and delayed development is found in these babies which affects their brain and body. It can lead to lifetime health and development problems depending on how premature the baby is. Premature babies also be likely to be underweight and malnourished and might have distress breathing and feeding as newborns.

Underweight babies are more prone to chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases because of malnourishment. Low birth weight also disturbs brain development and have been observed to get learning difficulties.Underweight child and mother who gives a premature birth, both are at higher risk of mortality.

Teenage Pregnancy Affecting Fathers

Becoming a father in teenage can be a terrifying and life-changing event. Teen fathers do not worry about health implications of pregnancy and child delivery, but they are scared to face post-delivery effects such as staying in school, facing a society, and earning a living.

Diagnosis

In this modern era, majority of marts and pharmacies sell home pregnancy tests which are designed to detect pregnancy hormones in urine. This test shows more accurate result if female use them after a week of missed menstruation. Besides, after confirming through this test, consultation to a doctor is essential who confirms the pregnancy through blood test or physical examination.

Options for Pregnant Teenagers

Usually the teenage pregnant are afraid to visit a doctor which is extremely important for safety of both, a child, and a mother. Doctors should discuss all the pregnancy related options including:

Abortion, or ending the gestationtherapeutically

Giving birth and legally authorizingsomebody else to raise your kid

Giving birth and raising the child yourself

Healthy Baby for A Teenager

Teen parents can have a healthy child if they visit their doctor as soon as they came to know about pregnancy and attend all the scheduled appointment.

• Proper obstetrical maintenance during the gestation is so significant to the health and wellbeing of equally the mother and the baby.
• Proper diet, physical activity and revealing in friends and relatives also creates a greater impact.
• Smoking effects the mother health and results in having a premature birth of a baby.
• Alcohol abuse also effects on a mother and unborn child. If a person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol must consult the doctor and ask for a treatment program which helps to quit.
• Medications dosage should be followed properly according to doctor’s prescription.
• Proper medical checkup is essential as teenager’s bodies are still developing

Birth Control Methods:

Prescription birth control is accessible through a doctor or a women’s health clinic.

1. Intrauterine device (IUD)

This device is implanted in the uterus. This procedure is well tolerated and does not require hospitalization. IUD prevents the pregnancy by different mechanisms and have 99% of accuracy in results.

2. Birth control implant

Some birth control techniques involve hormone levels in one’s body, so a person is less expected to become pregnant. The most efficient is a birth control implant, also known as Nexplanon.

It is a very small plastic stick which is inserted under the skin of the arm. Implants remain in place for up to three years. They have showed a 99% effectiveness.

3. Other methods

Birth controlling medicines, shots, and patches also affect hormone levels and efficacy rate is about 91 to 94 percent.

Prevention

The only way to prevent the pregnancy is to avoid sexual intercourse. Though there are many other alternative methods to reduce the chances of pregnancy.  Many groups offer therapy and encouragement programs that helps in the prevention of teenage pregnancy and provides information on birth control and help teenagers to understand their sexual restrictions. Some courses offer peer counseling, because it may possibly feel more secure and comfortable conversation with someone of own age.

Diet with high protein requires to eat more protein and fewer carbohydrates or fat to increase weight loss, advance energy, and augment athletic performance. Protein is considered as one of the essential nutrients for the health of the body. It is accountable for the variety of important functions in the body including enzymes, hormones, maintenance and cell repair. According to some nutritionists, a high protein diet can help overweight and obese females lose more fat and at the same time retaining less muscle mass. High protein diets assist in reducing the level of hunger, surge satiety, increase metabolic rate, and reserve muscle mass. Unfortunately, in case of diet, it varies sometimes from person to person as one diet plan cannot entertain each and every person. Generally, a diet with high protein recommends taking more than 20% of your entire calories from protein. It means to intake fewer calories from carbohydrates or fats to maintain the balance of calories in the body.

The History of High-Protein Diets

High-protein diets have been around for eras. People native to the Arctic region where green life such as plants and herbs are rare can survive only on marine life and rein deers. African warrior tribes used to survive on only milk and meat. Similarly, some Native Americans know to continue their lives while eating mostly buffalo with a few plants. The high-protein diets came into trend during the late 1970swith the Scarsdale diet, which proportionates the diet of 43% protein, 22.5% fat, and 34.5% carbohydrates. Current diets that highly emphasizes on high-proteins intake comprises of Atkins, South Beach, and Dukan diets.

How High-Protein Diets Work?

It is important for any healthy diet for weight loss to incorporate a balance of three macronutrients such as fat, carbohydrate, and protein. A high-protein diet comprises at least 20% of calories from protein. The amount of protein you should intake relies on some essential factors that incorporate your age, body size, activity level, and gender.

Guidelines for Proteins

There are general plans that guide the individuals to eat between 10% and 35% of total calories as protein. Active adults may need 1.2 to 1.7 grams per kilogram of body weight each day. This connects to 82 to 116 grams for a person weighing 150 pounds. Whereas the official recommendations daily allowance for a healthy adult is a minimum of 0.8 g/kg/day. It is easy to have a check on a daily protein intake with the help of calorie tracking applications. The application is used by many people on a high-protein diet to track their macronutrient intake to ensure that they are getting the correct ratio of protein to carbohydrate and fat.
To initiate the high protein diet, it is suggested to intake 30% of calories from protein, 30% of calories from fat, and 40% of calories from carbohydrates. Later after some days, an individual can either add or reduce the level of macronutrient according to o his needs.

Recommended Meal Timing

There is no recommended meal timing for a high-protein diet, however, some individuals on a high-protein plan also practice fasting with irregular intervals, which include confining the level of calories to certain days of the week and then fasting on others days. Similarly, the practice is continued for a longer period of time without eating, sometimes even 16 hours a day.

Resources and Tips

It is important not to make the high-protein diet difficult. It needs to be easy and flexible to get continued for a longer period. Here are a few tips that can help a person to initiate:

• Contain protein in each meal. Meals should be planned around a protein, where lean beef, a chicken must be the part of your dish together with the plate of vegetables.
• Eliminate processed carbs. Instead of eating refined grains, that includes white rice, pasta, and bread, it is best to include small servings of whole grains that are rich in protein, such as amaranth or quinoa. Similarlypasta can be replaced with spiralized zucchini or carrots and replaced riced cauliflower for white rice.
• Snack on protein. Try to keep high-protein snacks aside for between-meal hunger strikes. Almonds, Greek yoghurt, hummus, ricotta, and string cheese can help o person during between-meal hunger.
• Start your day with protein. Eggs are rich in proteins and help in filling the breakfast. If someone is running short of time or is not keen of eating eggs, a smoothie prepared with protein powder, such as whey, pea protein, or collagen, leafy greens, and berries can help allot in the quick and healthy breakfast.

High-Protein Pros and Cons

Excessiveness of any food has its own pros and cons on the health of a person. Similar to every weight-loss plan, a high-protein diet has its own share of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

The high protein diet can help a person on building strong muscles, burning more calories, help in more filling, and eventually helps a person in improving the diet.

Cons:

The excessive use of high protein diet can lead the person to suffer from nutrient deficiency. In addition to that, a high intake of protein diet can be harmful to the kidneys, heart disease.

When the meal on the table has a lean source of protein, there is less space on your plate for those foods that are unhealthy. It is therefore suggested by nutritionists to learn to eat various types of proteins that may help a person to improve the diet and physique as well. For example, if a person eats tuna, he will not only benefit himself from the protein in that fish but can also benefit the body from the healthy fat it is included in tuna.
It is also important to note here that protein helps you burn a few extra calories because your body has to put the effort to chew and digest the food. According to scientists, this phenomenon is known as the “thermic effect of food.” The number of extra calories is small so a person should avoid creating an entire weight loss program that is purely relied on this benefit.

What is Eczema?

Eczema is sometimes called “the itch that rashes” because the itching usually comes first. If you suffer from eczema you will notice scaly, leathery patches on the skin of your hands. You will also notice red patches on your skin. Atopic dermatitis is a common, often inherited form of eczema, but there are other types and many treatments.

Different types of Eczema?

Eczema is of various types. The most common is Atopic Dermatitis. When people are talking about eczema, they are usually referring to it. Another common type is Contact Dermatitis. Nearly every person undergoes from eczema at some time in their lifetimes. It occurs when the skin meets something that causes a rash. Dyshidrotic Eczema is another main type of eczema that occurs when the skin does not protect itself the way it should. Nummular Eczema is a very common type and people suffering from this get round sores, often after a skin injury like a burn or insect bite. There is a type of eczema that occurs in areas of the body with lots of oil glands. When it is on the scalp it is called dandruff. This type is known as Seborrheic Dermatitis. A type of eczema occurs in people who have poor blood flow, usually in the lower legs called Stasis Dermatitis.

What are the reasons that can cause Eczema?

The main cause of Eczema is still not fully understood. Although scientists and doctors believe it happens due to an overactive immune system which gets triggered when exposed to irritants and thus responds aggressively. It is sometimes caused by an abnormal response to proteins that are part of the human body. In a healthy individual, the immune system ignores the proteins of human body and attacks only those proteins which belong to invaders such as bacteria and viruses. If you are suffering from Eczema, then your immune system would lose the ability to distinguish the difference between your body proteins and invader proteins thus your skin would inflame in response to this confused reaction of your immune system.

What are the symptoms of Eczema?

Eczema looks different for everyone. And the flare-ups will not always happen in the same area. No matter which part of your skin is affected, eczema will almost always be itchy. The itching sometimes starts before the rash. In infants, the uncomfortable rash may lead to an oozing, crusting illness that happens mostly on the face and scalp. It can also occur on the arms, legs, back and chest. Children and teens usually show a rash that eventually turns scaly and dry. This rash appears in the bends of their elbows, back side of the knees, on their necks or on the wrists and ankles. In adults, the rash usually occurs on the face, the backs of their knees, wrists, hands, or feet.

Can Eczema be Triggered?

An eczema flare-up is considered when a patient shows one or more eczema symptoms on his skin. Eczema can be triggered by many reasons. The most common trigger of eczema flare-ups are the chemicals found in cleaners and detergents. Rough scratchy clothing materials such as wool and synthetic fabrics can also trigger eczema. Other triggers are high body temperature, excessive sweating, changes in surrounding temperature, sudden drop in humidity, mental stress, food allergies, animal dander, respiratory tract infections and severe cold weather.

What Are the Risk Factors Of Eczema?

There are numerous factors that can increase the risk of developing eczema. The most common and major risk factor is hay fever, also called asthma. Studies have found that eczema is mostly common in those children who are suffering from asthma and the adults who develop these conditions later, usually before the age of 30. Another risk factor is family history. If any of your family member is suffering from eczema then you are also at a greater risk of developing this condition.

How can we treat Eczema?

The correct treatment of eczema can be identified with the help of dermatologists, allergists, and primary care doctors. Medications like oral over the counter (OTC) antihistamines may relieve itching. They work by blocking histamine which triggers allergic reaction. Light therapy also called phototherapy is another treatment method used for treating eczema. It uses UV light or sunlamps to help prevent immune system responses that triggers eczema. It requires a series of treatments and can help reduce or clear up the skin. This method can also prevent various bacterial skin infections. Other treatment method includes acupuncture, aromatherapy, relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation etc.

How Eczema Can Be Prevented?

Eczema can be prevented by making some lifestyle changes. This include reducing stress and improving the sleep schedule. You can achieve it by doing deep breathing exercises, practicing yoga, meditation, listening to relaxing music and prioritizing a good night’s sleep. Other methods are avoiding irritating chemicals and materials like rough fabrics, harsh soaps, and detergents. If you are suffering from eczema, then you should also avoid scratching your skin. To prevent the breaking of skin, you can rub the affected area rather than scratching it making it itchier and more irritable. As dry skin can trigger an eczema flare-up, you should contact a dermatologist to prescribe you an ointment- or cream-based moisturizer that could help in soothing your skin. The above-mentioned changes can reduce the likelihood of an eczema flare-up thus helping you in leading a healthy and happy life.

Chemicals in Skin Products

A senior consultant from National Institute of Health states that care products might not be able to impart the projected results. On the contrary, substandard quality, grade, harmful compositions can cause severe allergies, discoloration, texture alteration or permanent damage to the skin or hair. Expanded usage and unfettered production of these care commodities has led to sharp rise in the side effects which are endured by the customers. Doctors nowadays have reported variety of cases related to these beauty products, especially occurring in the younger to middle aged patients.The most common chemical found in care products is paraben which is widely used as a preservative in deodorants, moisturizers, shampoos, body wash and makeup. This chemical increases the chances of breast cancer as its chemical structure is quite similar to estrogen and it can be carcinogenic even in small amounts. Men who use beauty products containing parabens are reported to have lower sperm counts and less testosterone. This may result in endocrine disruption.

Other famous chemicals like, formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers which are present in nail products, hair dye, hair straighteners, false eyelash adhesives, cosmetic glues, and some shampoos, are also linked to cause cancer. These harmful chemicals can also damage our immune system.There is one more chemical called ethanolamine which contains impurities like nitrosamines. This chemical is usually not listed on product labels. This chemical is a respiratory, skin and organ cancer-causing toxicants. Unfortunately, it is commonly found in soaps, shampoos, hair conditioners and dyes, shaving creams, eyeliners, mascara, fragrances and even sunscreens.

Many dermatologists have pointed out a chemical known as phthalates which is abundantly found in hair sprays and lotions. Doctors claim that it may cause reproductive birth defects in both males and females. It can even damage human liver, kidney and lungs and cause cancer.Triclosan is a very common chemical found in most antibacterial soaps and deodorant. Many complaints have been reported against this chemical as it causes skin irritation and infection. In a study, it was found that it can act as endocrine disruptor and disturb thyroid, testosterone, and estrogen regulation, leading to issues like early puberty, poor sperm quality, infertility, obesity, and cancer. If kids and teenagers are exposed to this chemical at an early age, there is an increased chance that they will develop severe allergies, asthma, and eczema.

Chemicals in Skin Lightning Products

Hydroquinone a chemical usually found in skin-lightening products, certain cleansers, and moisturizers, is another fatal drug that can cause ochronosis and thus leave disfiguring and irreversible blue-black lesions on exposed skin. Various fairness and whitening creams also contain steroids which can cause skin damage, thinning, redness, color alteration and acne, apart from hydroquinone or mercury, which are now associated with cancer causing drugs.Coal tar, ethoxylated surfactants and 1,4-dioxane which is a by-product that is obtained from adding carcinogenic ethylene oxide to make other chemicals relatively less harsh is commonly and abundantly used in baby washes. Lead is used in lipstick and hair dye but is not listed because it is a contaminant and not an ingredient. Mercury found in these care products can impair human brain development. These are some of the other harmful ingredients used in manufacturing cosmetics and beauty goods.

Even basic goods such as hand sanitizers and hair straighteners can cause more damage to your hair and skin than expected. Hand sanitizers are extremely effective in killing germs, but its excessive use can also kill the good bacteria thus exposing your skin to the allergic elements.Today, most of the baby wipes which are present in the market contain a chemical called methylisothiazolinone. This chemical is responsible for skin allergies, rashes, and irritation.Most deodorants have aluminum chloride hexahydrate and parabens which are the leading cause of cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease. Toothpaste is a major source of fluoride and if the quantity of intake is high, it can become the main cause of disfiguring dental fluorosis.

When it comes to using beauty products, less is better! You are more likely to damage and harm your skin by using all these care products. You should opt for a routine body check-up and use good alternatives to care products such as an organic face wash instead of a synthetic chemical one, pomegranate seeds instead of lip gloss, aloe vera gels as great moisturizing agent and coconut oil instead of harmful body lotions and moisturizers. Use avocado as it is an ultra-moisturizing fatty fruit and contains vitamins A, D and E which can penetrate the human skin. It helps in soothing sunburns, can boost collagen production, and even treat age spots. Use coconut oil on both your skin and hair for cleansing, moisturizing, removing makeup, healing wounds or scars quicker, and prevent razor burns. Select for beauty products with fatty alcohols such as cetyl, cetearyl, lanolin or stearyl alcohol which works as good moisturizers.

How to Save Skin

To save yourself from future problems you should start choosing products that are labelled non-comedogenic as that ensures the product does not cause skin irritation. And try your best not to use these beauty products abundantly. Be natural and use natural products. In this way, you will be doing a favor to your body and it will repay you with a healthy luscious glow on your face and hair.

The digestive system is completed by the gastrointestinal tract—also known as the GI tract or digestive tract. The GI tract is a sequence of hollow organs connected in a long, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus. The hollow organs that build up the GI tract include mouth, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus. The liver, pancreas, and gallbladder are the hard organs of the digestive system. The small intestine constitutes of three parts. The initial part is known as the duodenum. The jejunum lies in the middle and the ileum is at the base. The large intestine constitutes appendix, cecum, colon, and rectum. The appendix has a finger-shaped pouch linked to the cecum. The cecum is the initial part of the large intestine. The colon is second. The rectum lies at the end of the large intestine.

Why is digestion important?

Digestion is crucial because your body requires nutrients from food and drink to work appropriately and stay healthy. Proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins NIH external link, minerals NIH external link, and water are the main nutrients. The digestive system breaks nutrients into small parts for your body to absorb and consume for energy, growth, and cell repair. Digestion is significant for breaking down food into nutrients, which the body utilizes for energy, growth, and cell maintenance. Food and drink have to be changed into tiny molecules of nutrients before the blood consumes them and transmits them to cells throughout the entire body. The body breaks down nutrients from food and drinks into carbohydrates, protein, fats, and vitamins.

Mouth

The mouth is the initial stage of the digestive tract. Digestion begins here as soon as you take the first bite of the food. Chewing breaks the food into pieces that digested more effortlessly, while saliva helps in mixing with the food to commence the procedure of breaking it down into a form that body can absorb and consume.

Throat

Also known as the pharynx, the throat is the next stop for food that has been eaten. The food starts from this destination and travels to the oesophagus or swallowing tube.

Oesophagus

The oesophagus is a muscular tube that extends from the pharynx to the stomach. Using a series of contractions, called peristalsis, the oesophagus provides food to the stomach. Just a little before the joining to the stomach, there is a “zone of high pressure,” known as the lower oesophagal sphincter. This is a “valve” that works to keep food from passing back into the oesophagus.

Stomach

The stomach is a sac-like organ with powerful muscular walls. In addition to holding the food, it also works as a mixer and grinder of food. The stomach secretes acid and powerful enzymes that last the procedure of breaking down the food. When it leaves the stomach, food takes the shape of liquid or paste. Then, the food moves towards the small intestine.

Small Intestine

The small intestine is made up of three segments namely the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. The small intestine is a basic long tube loosely coiled in the abdomen. The small intestine continues the procedure of breaking down food while utilizing the enzymes released by the pancreas and bile from the liver. Bile is multipart that helps in the digestion of fat and removes waste products from the blood. Peristalsis (contractions) also performs in this organ, moving food through and mixing it up with digestive secretions. The duodenum is largely accountable for continuing the procedure of breaking down food, together with the jejunum and ileum mainly in control for the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream.

Mouth and oral structures

Little digestion of food basically takes place in the mouth. However, through the procedure of mastication, or chewing, food gets ready in the mouth for transference through the upper digestive tract into the stomach and small intestine, where the main digestive procedures take place. Chewing is the initial mechanical procedure to which food is subjected. Actions of the lower jaw in chewing are carried out by the muscles of mastication. The sensitivity of the periodontal membrane that surrounds and helps the teeth, rather than the power of the muscles of mastication, decides the force of the bite.

Mastication is not important for enough digestion. Chewing does help in digestion, however, by decreasing food to tiny units and mingling it with the saliva secreted by the salivary glands. The saliva lubricates and moistens dry food while chewing divides the saliva throughout the entire food mass. The movement of the tongue against the solid palate and the cheeks aids to form a rounded mass, or bolus, of food.

Digestion Process

CARBOHYDRATES

Carbohydrates are the sugars, starches, and fibre found in several foods. Carbohydrates are known as simple or complicated, relied on their chemical structure. Simple carbohydrates comprise of sugars present naturally in foods such as fruits, vegetables, milk, and milk products, as well as sugars added during food processing. Multifaceted carbohydrates are starches and fibre present in whole-grain bread and cereals, starchy vegetables, and legumes.

PROTEIN

Foods such as meat, eggs, and beans comprise of large molecules of protein that the body digests into tiny units called amino acids. The body consumes amino acids with the help of small intestine into the blood, which then travels them throughout the entire body.

FATS

Fat molecules are considered as a rich source of energy for the body and facilitate the body to absorb vitamins. Oils, such as corn, canola, olive, safflower, soybean, and sunflower, are examples of healthy fats. Butter, shortening, and snack foods are examples of fewer healthy fats. During the process of digestion, the body breaks down fat molecules into fatty acids and glycerol.

VITAMINS

Scientists categorize vitamins by the fluid in which they dissolve. Water-soluble vitamins consist of all the B vitamins and vitamin C. Fat-soluble vitamins consist of vitamins A, D, E, and K. Each vitamin has a varied role in the body’s growth and health. The body stores fat-soluble vitamins in the liver and fatty tissues, whereas the body cannot effortlessly store water-soluble vitamins and flushes out the additional in the urine.

How Can Water Temperature Affect Our Body?

According to the Indian traditions of Ayurvedic medicine, chilled water creates an imbalance to the body and slows down the process of digestion. This results in stomach aches and even weight gain. Our body has a core temperature of approximately 98.6°F and Ayurvedic practitioners state that our body needs to expend additional energy to maintain this temperature when we intake cold water. According to the Ayurvedic tradition, cold water can dampen our body fire which fuels all the systems of our body and is also essential to health. Ayurvedic practitioners also believe that drinking warm water helps you in easing digestion and losing some calories. According to Western medicine, there is a little scientific evidence which suggests that cold water is bad for the body and digestion. Although it is well established fact that drinking a large volume of water can help the body flush out toxins, ease digestion, and prevent constipation.

Research that Supports the Above Stated Assumptions

A minor research was conducted in 2013 which investigated the effects of consuming water at various temperatures in six people who were dehydrated, following a mild exercise plan, in a hot and humid chamber. Through this study, the researchers found that altering the water temperature affects the sweating response of the participants and the quantity of water they drank. The optimal temperature of water according to the study was 16°C (60.8°F), which is the temperature of cool tap water because the participants consumed more water and sweated less. Overall, the researchers concluded that drinking water which has a temperature of 16°C might be the optimal way for rehydration in dehydrated athletes.

Suggest Some Benefits of Consuming Cold Water?

Some studies suggest that drinking cold water during workouts might improve your performance and endurance. Consuming cold water during exercise can help in keeping your body from overheating thus making your workout session more successful. This is because in taking chilled water makes it easier for your body to maintain a lower core temperature. In 2012, a study was conducted involving 45 physically fit male athletes. The research claimed that consuming cold water during exercise significantly reduce the rise in core body temperature compared with consuming room temperature water. Another study was conducted in 2014 which investigated the effects of various beverages on the cycling performance of 12 trained male athletes in a tropical climate. Although the researchers reported that consuming an icy cold beverage was way better for performance than just drinking water at a neutral temperature, but they also concluded that the athletes who achieved the tremendous performance after consuming an icy cold beverage also had a menthol aroma.

What Are the Risks of Drinking Cold Water?

Few studies suggest that people with conditions that affect the esophagus such as achalasia, should avoid drinking cold water. Achalasia is a rare condition in which swallowing of food and drink becomes extremely difficult. In 2012, a study was conducted which found that drinking cold water worsened the symptoms in people with achalasia. However, when participants drank hot water, it helped soothe and relax the esophagus, allowing the food and drink to swallow easily.

In 2001, a study was conducted involving 669 women which suggested that drinking cold water might be the reason of severe headaches in some people. The researchers reported that 7.6 percent of participants experienced a headache after drinking 150 milliliters of icy chilled water with a straw. They also found that participants with active migraine were twice as likely to get a headache after drinking cold water in comparison to those who never had a migraine. Ayurvedic medicine also warns us against consuming chilled water at any time as cold water solidifies fats after a meal thus making it difficult to break down the unwanted fats in our body resulting in fat deposition and weight gain.

Some studies have also shown that cold water may play a vital role in decreasing your heart rate. Consuming ice water stimulates the vagus nerve. It is the tenth cranial nerve and is a significant part of the body’s autonomous nervous system as it mediates the lowering of heart rate. When you are drinking cold water, the low temperature of water starts stimulation of the vagus nerve and cause the heart rate to drop.It is also advised not to consume chilled water just after a workout. When you work out, a huge of amount heat is generated, and if you drink ice-cold water just after, the difference of temperatures may take a toll on your digestive tract giving you a severe stomachache.

Drinking chilled water also led to constipation. The reason is when you consume chilled water, the food solidifies while passing through the body and as a result your intestines contract causing constipation. Some people also claim that drinking cold drinks and foods can cause a sore throat. But unfortunately, we do not possess any scientific evidence to support this claim. These were some of the reasons which showed that drinking cold water has more bad impacts on our body as compared to the good ones. But this does not imply that you should stop drinking water as it will cause more harm than good. Finally, to save ourselves from the above-mentioned harms we should consume water that is at room temperature so that we can live a long, healthy, and independent life.

Each time we shampoo our hair these natural oils are removed from our scalp and hair. These harsh chemicals even alter the pH of our hair and scalp and in return cause irritation and inflammation. All this leads to various scalp problems like dandruff, scaling and flaking. It can also be the main reason of hair loss.

How Toxic Could Be Your Shampoo?

A lot more than you can imagine! The gorgeous bottle that promises you thick, luxurious lather and beautiful bubbles is not only causing damage to your hair, but the ingredients found in it also led to numerous diseases, hair thinning, hair loss, and even scalp damage. The major culprits found in most shampoos that cause these harms are surfactants called Sodium Laurel Sulfate (SLS) and related compounds. SLS is no doubt the most dangerous ingredient you can find in approximately all shampoo bottles.

This ingredient is so potent that studies have linked it to serious skin and scalp irritation and diseases. It causes hair loss, hair thinning and scalp damage. In one study, this ingredient was also linked to cancer and cell damage. SLS is usually disguised by a lot of names such as diethanolime (DEA), triethanolamine (TEA), and monoethanolamine (MEA). SLS along with other equally dangerous elements such as Sodium Laurel Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate are made by separating Lauric acid from coconut oil and reacting it with sulfuric acid. They are even made synthetically by reacting Lauric acid and ammonia. The hair care products that call themselves as “natural” also contain these potentially harmful ingredients.

What Are the Main Chemicals That Cause Harm to Our Hair?

Most of the shampoos we use contain a tremendous amount of SLE/SLES and parabens. These chemicals help in creating lather when we add shampoo to our hair to clean and remove the dirt. These mainly cause irritation in skin and eye and become a source of inflammation and weakened roots which indirectly results in hair loss. It is better if you use a shampoo that does not contain these chemicals. Although in some cases, it is extremely essential for the person to shampoo everyday. These people must take a lot of care of their scalp and hair by massaging the scalp with oil such as castor or olive. This will increase the blood circulation in the scalp and will stimulate the hair follicles thus making their hair strong. A hair mask made of eggs, honey and curd is another famous home remedy to provide hair with nourishment that is needed for it to be healthy.

What Are the Major Problems Related to Hair and Scalp?

The most dangerous impact of these harmful chemicals in our shampoo is the damage to the hair follicles which results in loss of hair. SLS which is the foaming agent in our shampoo contains protein denaturing properties due to which it causes inflammation and irritation of skin along with many other problems of scalp.

Can Shampooing Everyday Causes Eye Problems?

The harmful ingredients such as SLS or SLES might cause cataract in adults if you start overusing it. More shockingly, shampooing every other day in the kids can hinder the proper development of their eyes. There is one more chemical present in our shampoos called Formaldehyde which can create a sensation of burning in our eyes. According to American College of Toxicology, these shampoos can lead to malformation in eyes of the children.

Does Shampooing Everyday Cause Asthma?

There are few ingredients present in our shampoo such as DMDM hydantoin, Diazolidinyl Urea, imidazolidinyl urea, quaternium-15, and bronopol which contain a chemical called formaldehyde that is a sensitizer. By using this sensitizer daily in shampoos, can cause asthma, chest pain and even shortness of breath.

What Are the Major Skin Problems Caused By Shampooing Every Other Day?

As we discussed earlier that shampooing daily decreases the natural production of oils of the scalp, thus causing various irritations related to skin. The most common problems caused by daily exposure of shampoo include rashes, inflammation of skin, itching, redness, and eczema. These problems are the result of different harsh chemicals which are embedded in all beauty products.

Does Shampooing Daily Have an Impact on Our Body Immune System?

The answer is Yes. The toxic ingredients present in our shampoo poses a serious threat to the entire immune system if we use them repeatedly. The main ingredients like SLS and SLES which are unfortunately found in 95% of shampoos worldwide causes a significant risk to our immune system instead of acting as the right hair care product. There are endless harmful effects of shampooing your hair daily. So, while buying a shampoo for yourself take an extra care to find ingredients listed on the label and try your best to look for SLS free shampoos as it will lessen the side effects on your hair and scalp.

Are There Any Tips to Save Yourself from The Harms of Shampoo?

Whenever we are buying these famous brand shampoos, we always think of lush, black, beautiful hair while ignoring all the unfavorable effects it brings to our hair and scalp health. While buying a shampoo we look for price, brand and most importantly how to use it. Instead, you should look for the ingredients that are mentioned in the label. By doing this you will do your hair and scalp a huge amount of favor. Apart from this, use different home remedies to nourish your hair like massaging oil on scalp or applying an egg hair mask at least once a week.

How does face masks’ effect on your skin?

Face masks restricts the oxygen supply to your skin and creates closed environment which may raises the amount of humidity to your skin. Thus, the excessive amount of moisture creates no worries if you are wearing a mask for a short interval of time, as for example while grocery shopping or during a medical checkup. But if you are wearing it for a longer period then it can lead to the irritation of your skin over the nose bridge, chin, or cheeks. If you are having a history of acne, eczema or some type of dermatitis allergy then wearing face mask persistently can worsened your condition. Certain people complain the scratching and rubbing behind their ears due to the elastic bands of mask’s.

Choosing the proper mask

Size and quality are crucial when buying a facemask. Neither it should be too loose that slips off your nose, nor too tight which may cause irritation to your skin. Facemask must be snug fit enough that it stays put on your chin while speaking. Adjustable ear bands are preferable as it provides the comfort and reduce the irritation of your skin.

Cotton masks are softer on the skin and suitable for most individuals. N95 respirators are critical for health care workers, but due to their tight fit, they can cause pressure and damage to skin tissue. If you are required to wear a N95 respirator for work, remove the mask every two to three hours in a safe place away from other individuals for five minutes. Also, when you can safely do so, like after work, switch to cotton masks.

Preventing skin issues

The most important thing you can do to avoid breakouts and inflammation is to keep your skin clean and moisturized. Wash your face gradually before and after wearing your mask with a balanced pH, non-comedogenic cream to remove oil, dirt, and bacteria. First, add a soft, fragrant, non-comedogenic moisturizer to your skin. Check the label for non-comedogenic, non-clogging or non-acnegenic words to pick the suitable option for you.

Search for skin care products that have dimethicone or ceramides as ingredients which could promote healing the skin barrier that prevents mask itchiness. Probably wear buttoned headbands if your elastic band mask develop resistance underneath your ears. There are two categories of products that is recommended to people to avoid when wearing masks. Initially, avoid petrolatum products. This component can disrupt with the function and fit of your mask. Also, stop wearing cosmetics, particularly on a mask-covered skin. It can increase the discomfort and dampness of the mask.

How can face masks affect your skin?

Acne

If you have eczema skin, wearing a mask may, unfortunately, make it even worse. Dermatologists had also warned that if a mask experiences aggressive acne, it may trigger further irritation. Acne is raised patches and freckles which can be caused by stuck moisture, sweat and oil in the mask. Subsequently, the term ‘mask’ was established in response to the breakouts caused by the wearing of face coverings. The moisture that comes from talking behind a mask resulting in altered the PH of your skin and can end up causing eczema, acne, and rashes.

Miliaria

Miliaria (also known as sweat rash) occurs after obstructions or just swelling of the sweat glands. The face masks that we wear retain the CO2 that we discharge and thus create a humidity for the areas of our face that are protected. Rising temperatures can trap dead cells, dirt, and oils into the secretions, often causing a rash to explode.

Rosacea

Rosacea generally causes red bumps on the face, and facial masks are said to activate flare-ups response to fluctuations in the microbiome of the skin. Having a product massage against your skin may cause friction, which triggers the hypersensitive nerves that enclose the blood vessels in your face.

How to Prevent Skin Conditions Caused by Face Mask?

Rinse Your Face and Hands Before And After Wearing Your Mask

As many of us have learned throughout this disease outbreak, rinse your mouth and keeping them away from your face is essential to decelerate the spread of the disease. Thus the, cleaning your hands and face before you put on your mask will eradicate any pathogens on the skin’s surface. Furthermore, once you take off your mask, you should not touch your face unless you have rinsed your hands thoroughly.

Consider the material in your face mask:

Taking into consideration the material of your face mask is made of will be exceedingly helpful to keeping your body in excellent state. If, along with your profession, you are asked to wear a specific mask, this may not be as clear for you when it comes to having the option.

Avoid disposable face masks where feasible:

Disposable face masks are often rougher in quality than recyclable masks and can frequently cause skin irritant. As well as being wasteful, single-use masks will often cause you to sweat more than they tend to be breathable. However, if you use a reusable mask, make sure that you wash them regularly to stop the spread of germs and dirt to your face. Using a fabric conditioner on your reusable mask will soften the fabric to prevent unnecessary friction.

Wash the mask

Finally, keeping your mask clean will also help your skin to be healthy. A dirty mask will counteract any other prevention strategies you have made. Before wearing the first time, be sure to wash your masks. A washing machine or hand washing machine should be sufficient to wash the face of a cloth with a regular laundry detergent. Several scientists and experts recommended a hot water temperature for washing the surface of the face.