Ramanisblog

Tag: stress

  • Coffee-Boon or Bane?

     

    Contradicting information on the usefulness of Coffee to Health.

    As a habit it is difficult to shake off.

    Let us enjoy Coffee in moderation,two cups a day.

    Scientific studies have examined the relationship between coffee consumption and an array of medical conditions. Findings have been contradictory as to whether coffee has any specific health benefits, and results are similarly conflicting regarding the potentially harmful effects of coffee consumption.[9] Variations in findings, however, can be at least partially resolved by considering the method of preparation. Coffee prepared using paper filters removes oily components called diterpenes that are present in unfiltered coffee. Two types of diterpenes are present in coffee: kahweol and cafestol, both of which have been associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease via elevation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels in blood.[89] Metal filters, on the other hand, do not remove the oily components of coffee.[10]

    In addition to differences in methods of preparation, conflicting data regarding serving size could partially explain differences between beneficial/harmful effects of coffee consumption.

    Coffee consumption has been shown to have minimal or no impact, positive or negative, on cancer development;[90] however, researchers involved in an ongoing 22-year study by theHarvard School of Public Health state that “the overall balance of risks and benefits [of coffee consumption] are on the side of benefits.”[90] Other studies suggest coffee consumption reduces the risk of being affected by Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, heart disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, cirrhosis of the liver,[91] and gout. A longitudinal study in 2009 showed that those who consumed a moderate amount of coffee or tea (3–5 cups per day) at midlife were less likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in late-life compared with those who drank little coffee or avoided it altogether.[92] It increases the risk of acid reflux and associated diseases.[93] Most of coffee’s beneficial effects against type 2 diabetes are not due to its caffeine content, as the positive effects of consumption are greater in those who drink decaffeinated coffee.[94] The presence ofantioxidants in coffee has been shown to prevent free radicals from causing cell damage.[95] A recent study showed that roast coffee, high in lipophilic antioxidants and chlorogenic acid lactones, protected primary neuronal cell cultures against hydrogen peroxide-induced cell death.[96]

    In a healthy liver, caffeine is mostly broken down by the hepatic microsomal enzymatic system. The resulting metabolites are mostlyparaxanthines—theobromine and theophylline—and a small amount of unchanged caffeine is excreted by urine. Therefore, the metabolism of caffeine depends on the state of this enzymatic system of the liver. Elderly individuals with a depleted enzymatic system do not tolerate coffee with caffeine. They are recommended to take decaffeinated coffee, and this only if their stomach is healthy, because both decaffeinated coffee and coffee with caffeine cause heartburn. Moderate amounts of coffee (50–100 mg of caffeine or 5–10 g of coffee powder a day) are well tolerated by most elderly people. Excessive amounts of coffee, however, can, in many individuals, cause very unpleasant, exceptionally even life-threatening adverse effects.[97]. The benefits of coffee on abnormal liver biochemistry, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma have been reported, but there is a lack of satisfactory explanation. The benefits of coffee on abnormal liver biochemistry, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma have been reported, but there is a lack of satisfactory explanation. A possible opposite, if not antagonistic, role of coffee and Mediterranean Diet with regard to overweightness and insulin resistance is envisaged in the natural history of NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic-Fatty-Liver-Disease) .[98] Coffee consumption can lead to iron deficiency anemia in mothers and infants.[99] Coffee also interferes with the absorption of supplemental iron.[100] Interference with iron absorption is due to the polyphenols present in coffee. Four major classes were identified: flavan-3-ols (monomers and procyanidins), hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonols and anthocyanidins.[101] Although the inhibition of iron absorption can cause an iron deficiency, iron is considered a carcinogen in relation to the liver. Polyphenols contained in coffee are therefore associated with decreasing the risk of liver cancer development.[102]

    American scientist Yaser Dorri has suggested that the smell of coffee can restore appetite and refresh olfactory receptors. He suggests that people can regain their appetite after cooking by smelling coffee beans, and that this method can also be used for research animals.[103]

    Over 1,000 chemicals have been reported in roasted coffee; more than half of those tested (19/28) are rodent carcinogens.[104] Coffee’s negative health effects are often blamed on its caffeine content. Instant coffee has a much greater amount of acrylamide than brewed coffee.[105] Research suggests that drinking caffeinated coffee can cause a temporary increase in the stiffening of arterial walls.[106]Caffeinated coffee is not recommended for everybody. It may aggravate preexisting conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, migraines, arrhythmias, and cause sleep disturbances.[107]

    Coffee is no longer thought to be a risk factor for coronary heart disease.[108] One study suggests that it may have a mixed effect on short-term memory, by improving it when the information to be recalled is related to the current train of thought but making it more difficult to recall unrelated information.[109] Caffeine has been associated with its ability to act as an antidepressant. A review by de Paulis and Martin indicated a link between a decrease in suicide rates and coffee consumption, and suggested that the action of caffeine in blocking the inhibitory effects of adenosine on dopamine nerves in the brain reduced feelings of depression.[110] A 1992 study concluded that about 10% of people with a moderate daily intake (235 mg per day) experienced increased depression and anxiety when caffeine was withdrawn,[111] but a 2002 review of the literature criticised its methodology and concluded that “[t]he effects of caffeine withdrawal are still controversial.”[112]About 15% of the U.S. general population report having stopped drinking coffee altogether, citing concern about health and unpleasant side effects of caffeine.[113]

    Caffeine and headaches

    There is some controversy over whether the caffeine in coffee causes headaches or helps relieve headaches. In a 2000 controlled study by the Diamond Headache Clinic in Chicago, Illinois, revealed that adults who took ibuprofen, an over the counter pain killer, combined with caffeine or one cup of coffee had increased effectiveness against tension headaches. The study did not recommend that the caffeine and ibuprofen combination was effective against migraine headaches. A Johns Hopkins controlled study has linked drinking coffee with addictive withdrawal headaches, even with those who drink coffee in moderation. A 2009 Norwegian University of Science and Technology controlled study claims that heavy coffee drinkers, four cups a day, are more likely to suffer occasional headaches than persons who have low coffee or caffeine consumption.[114]

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coffee

    Heart Disease and Stroke

    Coffee may counter several risk factors for heart attack and stroke.

    First, there’s the potential effect on type 2 diabetes risk. Type 2 diabetes makes heart disease and stroke more likely.

    Besides that, coffee has been linked to lower risks for heart rhythm disturbances (another heart attack and stroke risk factor) in men and women, and lower risk for strokes in women.

    In a study of about 130,000 Kaiser Permanente health plan members, people who reported drinking 1-3 cups of coffee per day were 20% less likely to be hospitalized for abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) than nondrinkers, regardless of other risk factors.

    And, for women, coffee may mean a lower risk of stroke.

    In 2009, a study of 83,700 nurses enrolled in the long-term Nurses’ Health Study showed a 20% lower risk of stroke in those who reported drinking two or more cups of coffee daily, compared to women who drank less coffee or none at all. That pattern held regardless of whether the women had high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and type 2 diabetes.

    Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Diseases

    “For Parkinson’s disease, the data have always been very consistent: higher consumption of coffee is associated with decreased risk of Parkinson’s,” Hu tells WebMD. That seems to be due to caffeine, though exactly how that works isn’t clear, Hu notes.

    Coffee has also been linked to lower risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. A 2009 study from Finland and Sweden showed that, out of 1,400 people followed for about 20 years, those who reported drinking 3-5 cups of coffee daily were 65% less likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, compared with nondrinkers or occasional coffee drinkers.

    Cancer

    The evidence of a cancer protection effect of coffee is weaker than that for type 2 diabetes. But “for liver cancer, I think that the data are very consistent,” Hu says.

    “All of the studies have shown that high coffee consumption is associated with decreased risk of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer,” he says. That’s a “very interesting finding,” Hu says, but again, it’s not clear how it might work.

    Again, this research shows a possible association, but like most studies on coffee and health, does not show cause and effect.

    Pregnancy

    In August 2010, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) stated that moderate caffeine drinking – less than 200 mg per day, or about the amount in 12 ounces of coffee – doesn’t appear to have any major effects on causing miscarriage, premature delivery, or fetal growth.

    But the effects of larger caffeine doses are unknown, and other research shows that pregnant women who drink many cups of coffee daily may be at greater risk for miscarriage than non-drinkers or moderate drinkers. Again, it’s not clear whether the coffee was responsible for that.

    Calories, Heartburn, and Urine

    You won’t break your calorie budget on coffee — until you start adding the trimmings.

    According to the web site myfoodapedia.gov — part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion — a 6-ounce cup of black coffee contains just 7 calories. Add some half & half and you’ll get 46 calories. If you favor a liquid nondairy creamer, that will set you back 48 calories. A teaspoon of sugar will add about 23 calories.

    Drink a lot of coffee and you may head to the bathroom more often. Caffeine is a mild diuretic – that is, it makes you urinate more than you would without it. Decaffeinated coffee has about the same effect on urine production as water.

    Both regular and decaffeinated coffee contain acids that can make heartburn worse.

    http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/coffee-new-health-food

    Related:

    A study by psychologists at Bristol University found drinking caffeinated coffee boosts a woman’s performance in stressful situations but has the opposite effect on men.

    They become less confident and take longer to complete tasks once they have downed several cups of coffee.

    The findings, published in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology, suggest the beverage may have radically different effects on the sexes in high-pressure situations.

    Some of the potential health benefits include protection against diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, liver damage and even gout.

    Caffeine in coffee is a known stimulant which works on the brain and can combat drowsiness and fatigue.

    But researchers wanted to examine what coffee does to the body when it is already under stress, especially when large quantities are consumed in high-pressure meetings

    http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/8296548/Coffee-helps-working-women-but-holds-back-men.html

  • When anger reaches the danger zone-Don’t suppress.

     

    Anger Controlls Him
    Image via Wikipedia

     

    Anger is Nature‘s defense mechanism to ensure organism‘s survival Anger expresses itself through verbal and non verbal communication when the organism’s needs are not met.The way to regulate  or channelize anger is to find the cause of anger, which may have been of threat to life/survival or small disappointments which we have given more importance than it deserves,and desist from the dependency on the desire or value judgments we have attached thereto.This can be achieved by understanding what is essential for life and what is not.

    In the case of children, they attach values to things for which they have been trained for or encouraged.

    To train children from rage or excessive anger is for parents to behave more maturely towards circumstances and refrain from imposing heavy pressure on children in terms of studies, goals etc.These things are to be inculcated in children in such a way as not to cause them stress and react disproportionately to circumstances.For more, please read my blog under parenting  www.ramanan50.wordpress.com ( parenting)

    On no account should anger be suppressed.

    Story:

    There’s nothing like a children’s sporting event to rile people up. Confined to the sidelines, parents and coaches routinely scream at one another, at the referees and sometimes even at the kids. This last spring, I experienced firsthand just how bad behavior on the field could get.

    http://discussions.latimes.com/20/lanews/la-he-the-md-anger-20101011/10?

    Related;

    Harmful effects of anger and method of controlling the same.

    In daily life, we come across many odd situations or disturbances which really irritate us and we get angry. Now the question is whether we should suppress the anger forcefully or express. The reply will be neither of these two is good, as both are very much harmful.
    Suppression of anger increases internal stress to such a level that it puts tremendous pressure to our heart. Expressing anger makes your morale down and leads to undesirable situation like quarrel and ultimately harms self.
    The best way to control anger is through logic.

    Read more: http://socyberty.com/advice/anger-management-9/#ixzz11xPK5uCK

  • Stress-Facts.

    Stress is a part of human existence and trying to get rid of it will be detrimental to organism.
    Stress is which enables the organism to survive.
    Stress can not be eliminated for elimination of stress shall result in death.
    However stress can be managed and channelized.
    Human beings are ruled by,basically, by instincts.
    Instincts are rudimentary forms of feelings.
    They are inbuilt.
    They are instincts of –
    -survival
    -thirst
    -hunger
    -sex
    -gregariousness
    When there is a clash of instincts stress is noticed.
    for example-
    If life is threatened, survival instinct takes over with its physical reactions.
    Similarly, when there is a clash of instincts, stress is created.
    Trying to suppress the same is detrimental to life..
    Express your self naturally.
    Nothing wrong in crying , especially by men,is no sign of weakness.Apart from Time it is the best stress buster.
    All emotions have their roots in instincts,specifically Survival instinct.Emotions are natural expressions of the organism to protect itself.Bottling them up will result in physical problems,for instance when in anger or in a fighting mood more adrenalin is released and if it is not released it shall affect health.
    Express your feelings and emotions.To avoid unpleasantness in life, express them in a way that is socially acceptable and at the same time give vent to your feelings.This needs training and practice. Channelize emotions, not suppress them.One simple way to give vent to your anger and frustration is to punch a soft pillow till your feeling subsides or jump in private with out clothes.Especially the second one seems to be funny, try it, you shall know.
    Finally avoid non vegetarian and spicy food.
    Story:
    The article that struck me was about achieving good health “in 60 seconds.” Not only did this sound profoundly unbelievable, but over-simplistic. Yet here are the key points you need to keep upper-most in your mind, and go from stressed out to feeling good:

    1. Deep Breathing

    When a person is stressed, breathing – deep breathing – can be a quick 60 second cure. Nitric oxide, which is a powerful blood vessel dilator, begins in your nose and travels to your lungs. It actually helps your lungs function properly. Said doctors call it “a mini meditation.” By breathing deeply you reduce your stress and you can actually keep yourself from aging faster.

    As a note of my own, I would also like you to be aware of the “7 minute breath.” Under stress, we often forget, or inhibit ourselves, from taking that naturally occurring deep breath. This deep breath does come in a timely fashion – about every 7 minutes. Most of the time we are totally unaware that we are even deep breathing. However, as stress builds in your body, what you do become aware of is your inability TO get that much needed deep breathing. Relax.

    2. Don’t Forget Your Gums

    If you have not heard of periodontal disease by now you either do not own a television set or read a magazine or look at ads even on the internet. However, flossing truly is another 60 second health regime you must work into your daily schedule. Under stress, aging may very well be accelerated. Yet the simple, 60 second act of time for dental hygiene can actually reduce your “real age.”
    http://www.soloadexplosion.com/2010/07/how-stress-can-make-you-rich/comment-page-1/#comment-402

  • Chocolates work ‘like anti-depressants’

    What about other side effects like tooth decay,increase cholesterol and tendency to become obese.?
    Story:
    AUSTRALIAN scientists have confirmed what chocoholics have been praying is true – their favourite comfort food can reduce stress.

    Food rich in fat and sugar can alter chemical composition in the brain to reduce anxiety, professor Margaret Morris said.

    In a study of rats, Professor Morris, from the University of NSW’s School of Medical Sciences, found effects of past trauma could be erased by “unlimited access to yummy food”.

    “Implementing that diet reversed anxiety … it took an animal back to the non-stressed state,” Professor Morris said.

    “We really don’t know why, but there seems to be a biochemical link.”

    Using two groups of baby rats, one with normal contact with mothers, the other with lengthy separations and higher stress hormones, scientists found they became less stressed with comfort foods.

    “The control group had no effect from the diet really, but the stressed animals had a deficit … which was restored by the diet.”

    “(The) food seems to affect neurogenesis similar to the way anti-depressants promote nerve growth in the brain.”
    http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,26398290-5003426,00.html

  • Heart Diaease/Strokes-Risk factors and prevention -BBC

    Useful Information.
    Story:
    Heart disease and stroke may be inherited, but often they are the result of lifestyle. Changing eating, exercise and smoking habits can play a significant part in prevention.

    Risk Factors

    Age

    Four out of five people who die from coronary heart disease are aged 65 or older. The risk of stroke doubles with each decade after the age of 55.

    Sex

    Men are more at risk than women and have attacks earlier in life. But death rates from heart disease and stroke for women are twice as high as those for all forms of cancer.

    The risk for women increases as they approach menopause and continues to rise a they get older, possibly because of the loss of the natural hormone oestrogen.

    Family history (heredity)

    Children of parents with heart disease are more likely to suffer from the disease. Some races, such as Afro-Caribbeans, are more prone to coronary heart disease and stroke than others.

    Smoking

    Smokers are twice as likely to suffer heart attacks as non-smokers, and they are more likely to die as a result. Smoking is also linked to increased risk of stroke.

    The nicotine and carbon monoxide in tobacco smoke damages the cardiovascular system. Passive smoking may also be a danger.

    Women who smoke and take the oral contraceptive pill are at high risk of heart disease and stroke.

    Alcohol

    Drinking an average of more than one drink a day for women or more than two drinks a day for men increases the risk of heart disease and stroke because of the effect on blood pressure, weight and levels of triglycerides – a type of fat carried in the blood.

    Binge drinking is particularly dangerous.

    Drug abuse

    The use of certain drugs, particularly cocaine and those taken intravenously, has been linked to heart disease and stroke.

    Cocaine can cause abnormal heartbeat, which can be fatal, while heroin and opiates can cause lung failure. Injecting drugs can cause an infection of the heart or blood vessels.

    Cholesterol

    The higher the blood cholesterol level, the higher the risk of coronary heart disease, particularly if it is combined with any of the other risk factors. Diet is one cause of high cholesterol – others are age, sex and family history.

    High levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein), or “bad cholesterol”, are dangerous, while high levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein), or “good cholesterol” lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.

    Blood pressure

    High blood pressure increases the heart’s workload, causing it to enlarge and weaken over time. When combined with obesity, smoking, high cholesterol or diabetes, the risk increases several times.

    High blood pressure can be a problem in women who are pregnant or are taking high-dose types of oral contraceptive pill.

    Physical inactivity

    Failure to exercise is a cause of coronary heart disease as physical activity helps control cholesterol levels, diabetes and, in some cases, can help lower blood pressure.

    Obesity

    People who are overweight are more likely to develop heart disease and stroke, even if they have none of the other risk factors.

    Excess weight causes extra strain on the heart, influences blood pressure, cholesterol and levels of other blood fats – including triglycerides – and increases the risk of developing diabetes.

    Diabetes

    The condition seriously increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, even if glucose levels are under control. More than 80% of diabetes sufferers die of some form of heart or blood vessel disease.

    Previous medical history

    People who have had a previous heart attack or stroke are more likely than others to suffer further events.

    Stress

    Some links have been made between stress and coronary artery disease. This could be because it encourages people to eat more, start smoking or smoke more than they would otherwise have done.

    Prevention

    Education

    Educating people about the risk factors of heart disease and stroke and attempting to persuade them to adopt a healthier lifestyle can have an impact on the number of people dying from heart disease and stroke.

    Encouraging people to stop smoking, drink less, eat better and exercise regularly are particularly important.

    Doctors can help by asking about smoking habits and encouraging patients to use nicotine replacement treatment, such as nicotine patches.

    Regular monitoring

    People should also have regular blood pressure readings, height and weight monitoring, and tests for cholesterol levels.

    Those with high levels should be encouraged to improve their diet and can be treated for poor cholesterol levels with drugs – usually, statins or niacins.

    The American Heart Association recommends that blood pressure should be no more than 140 over 90 Hg.

    The association recommends a series of diets, with no more than 30% of calories coming in the form of fats, and limiting calories in the form of saturated fats to between 7 and 10%.

    People at risk should have less than 200mg dietary cholesterol per day.

    Sodium intake, most commonly found in salt, should also be controlled.

    Exercise

    Between three and four sessions of moderate intensity exercise, lasting around 30 minutes a time, are recommended as the minimum for physical activity each week.

    Ideal body mass index (BMI) – calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in metres – is between 21 and 25, and the preferable waist circumference is no more than 88cm (35 inches) for women, 102cm (40 inches) for men.

    For people already suffering from cardiovascular disease, the use of aspirin or warfarin, both of which prevent blood clotting, is recommended.

    Other drugs, including ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors to manage blood pressure, beta-blockers to control angina, heart rhythm or blood pressure, and oestrogen replacement in post-menopausal women, may also be used to prevent repeat incidents.

    http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/medical_notes/g-i/764037.stm