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Hindustan Times
2 hours ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Always add extra salt to your meals? It is risky: Here's what it actually does to your body over time
Salt is also known as sodium chloride, and as per Harvard School of Public Health's healthy eating website, The Nutrition Source, salt contains 40% sodium and 60% chloride. It is particularly the sodium consumed through salt seasoning that is alarming and has been flagged by the medical community. So if you are still salty with your mother for not passing the salt at the table, she has all the right reasons to do so. HT Lifestyle reached out to experts to understand more about the risks of sodium for the body's functioning and what you can do instead. Say no to salt as it is a (Shutterstock) ALSO READ: Endocrinologist reveals how too much or too little iodine from salt intake may be messing with your thyroid health Where does India stand when it comes to salt consumption? First, let's understand the Indian dynamic and where India's sodium consumption stands in comparison with global health limits. Dr Shaikh Mohammed Aslam, HOD and consultant, Department of Internal Medicine, Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, shared that excessive salt consumption results in several health complications and conditions, impairing major functions from the kidneys to the heart. He particularly highlighted India's shocking salt consumption and cited ICMR's 'One Pinch of Salt' campaign. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research and its campaign, Indians are consuming too much salt. In fact, it is a major concern that the average daily intake of salt in both urban and rural areas is much higher than the 5 grams that the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends. Nutritionist Anshul Jaibharat, on board with Tata Salt, also weighed in on sodium's risk, including spiking blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease. WHO reports that 1.89 million deaths annually are linked to sodium-related health issues. What does excess sodium do to your body? Salt is added for taste to food, but often many people forget that it comes at the expense of health.(Shutterstock) Sodium is often called the 'silent killer' as the ill effects may not show up quickly, but over time slowly impact the body through a chain reaction. And since the overall health's functioning is interconnected, sodium affects multiple organs and systems. Dr Shaikh explained how sodium quietly sets off a dangerous chain reaction that puts a lot of pressure on the heart and arteries. He said, 'Excessive sodium (salt) intake leads your body to retain more water for diluting it. Because there is more blood flowing through your arteries because of this extra fluid, your heart has to work harder and put greater pressure on the blood vessel walls. We refer to this persistently high pressure as hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. Your entire cardiovascular system suffers greatly over time because of this constant strain." This, in turn, significantly accelerates the risk of dangerous and debilitating conditions, from heart attacks to strokes. Dr Shaikh continued, "Your naturally flexible blood vessels become rigid, constricted, and harmed. Your risk of developing crippling heart disease, such as heart attacks and heart failure, eventually rises dramatically because of this damage. The risk of stroke, which can result in death or permanent disability, is also greatly increased. As excessive salt consumption can result in kidney issues and even renal failure, your kidneys also suffer. It affects more than just your heart and brain.' What can you do instead? Instead of salt, consider using spices to season your food. (Shutterstock) Turning a blind eye to sodium's risks is no longer an option. This requires active intervention, changes in dietary choices that help prevent health risks. There are several options that approach sodium intake. Low-sodium salt One option is switching to low-sodium salt if you don't want to completely eliminate salt. Nutritionist Anshul Jaibharat recommended salt which contains low sodium content. He said, 'A practical solution lies in replacing regular table salt with low-sodium alternatives. Low-sodium salt with 15% less sodium than regular iodised salt offers the same savoury taste along with the added benefit of potassium, which helps lower blood pressure. This simple switch allows individuals to enjoy their favourite dishes without compromising on taste or health." Cook with low salt Now that your concern about table salt seasoning is addressed, let's take a closer look at how you can cook with low salt. Anshul shared some practical options, 'Prioritise whole, minimally processed foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins naturally contain less sodium. Use herbs and spices to enhance flavours instead of salt. And choose lower-sodium versions of sauces and dressings.' Changing dinner table habits Often, the impulse to add salt to a meal arises when the taste doesn't quite hit the mark, prompting people to ask for extra salt. However, as Dr Shaikh warned, it's best to avoid asking for additional salt at the table. DASH diet Since sodium spikes high blood sugar, it is a big health hazard for people diagnosed with hypertension. For them, Dr Shaikh recommended the DASH diet. He explained, 'The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is often recommended. This eating plan emphasises fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy, while significantly reducing sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol.' And even otherwise, for people without hypertension as well, Dr Shaikh suggested managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight and doing regular physical activity to improve blood pressure. Recommended salt consumption So, what is the safe limit when it comes to salt consumption? Dr Shaikh clarified, 'Most doctors and health organisations recommend limiting your daily sodium intake to no more than 2,300 milligrams – that's roughly one teaspoon of salt. For many, especially those with existing high blood pressure or other risk factors, an even lower limit of 1,500 milligrams is advised. The reality is, the average person consumes much more, often without even realising it.' That is why being mindful about your salt intake is your key to protecting your health, like a long-term investment in protecting your heart, kidneys and overall health. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
New York Post
17-07-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Eating these common foods could reduce Alzheimer's risk, experts say
Reducing the risk of Alzheimer's could be as simple as eating the right food. A new study by researchers in Boston, Chicago and Washington, D.C., found that eating foods high in choline could lower the risk of developing the common dementia. Choline is an essential micronutrient found in various foods, including poultry, dairy products (such as milk, yogurt and eggs), cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, beans and some fish, according to the USDA. Dietary choline intake has been associated with a lower risk of cognitive function and reduced risk of dementia, the researchers concluded. In the study, participants averaging 81 years of age who did not have Alzheimer's completed dietary questionnaires and underwent annual neurological exams. After an eight-year follow-up, researchers determined that consuming about 350 milligrams of choline per day was associated with the lowest risk of clinical Alzheimer's diagnoses in older adults. 4 A new study found that foods high in choline could lower a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's. Kay Abrahams/ – Los Angeles-based registered dietitian nutritionist Ilana Muhlstein has also backed the impact of choline on brain health, citing a 2024 China-based study that found intake improves cognitive function, especially among women. 'This is the study that inspired me to start supplementing choline,' she said. 'My memory has gotten worse over the years. I first wrote it off as 'pregnancy brain,' then 'mommy brain,' but eventually realized I should do my best to help it.' 'I already sleep well, exercise regularly, play mahjong and limit my alcohol, so choline was the next obvious tool worth trying.' 4 Choline is found in foods like poultry, dairy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, beans and some fish, according to the USDA. Danijela – Muhlstein shared that more than 90% of the choline in eggs comes from the yolk. For those who choose to eat egg whites for dietary reasons, taking a choline supplement may be a better option. Choline intake should be tailored to each person's individual needs, the nutritionist noted, referencing guidance from the Harvard School of Public Health. 'Premenopausal women may have lower requirements for dietary choline, because higher estrogen levels stimulate the creation of choline in the body,' the university wrote. In a separate interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist, brain imaging doctor and founder of Amen Clinics in California, emphasized the importance of eating the right foods for brain health. 'Your brain uses 20% to 30% of the calories you consume,' he said. 'So, nutrition is critical to help your brain or hurt your brain.' 4 The study had participants take dietary questionnaires and undergo neurological exams. Monkey Business – 4 Dr. Daniel Amen, a brain imaging doctor, said walnuts are one of his favorite brain-healthy food options. Fox News Walnuts are one of Amen's favorite brain-healthy food options, as they contain choline as well as omega-3 fatty acids. He also recommends including wild salmon as a dietary staple, as it's high in omega-3s and healthy protein, as well as organic blueberries and green, leafy vegetables. 'If you had a salad every day, and you put blueberries and salmon and walnuts on it with a little lemon and olive oil, that would be a perfect brain-boosting lunch,' he said. The doctor also suggested considering certain supplements to foster better brain health, including vitamin D, omega-3 or fish oil, or a daily multi-vitamin. 'Nearly two-thirds of the American population is low in vitamin D,' he said. 'And if it's low, it's a universal risk factor for every bad thing related to your brain, but also to your body, including obesity and cancer … Know and optimize your vitamin D level.' Fox News Digital reached out to the study researchers for comment.
Sustainability Times
13-07-2025
- Health
- Sustainability Times
'Prostate Cancer Risk Slashed!': Scientists Declare Frequent Ejaculation the Most Powerful Prevention Tool for Men in Breakthrough Health Discovery
IN A NUTSHELL 🔍 Researchers explore the link between ejaculation frequency and reduced prostate cancer risk, with mixed findings from various studies. and reduced risk, with mixed findings from various studies. 📊 A significant study from the Harvard School of Public Health indicates that at least 21 ejaculations per month may lower cancer risk by 22%. ⚖️ Contrasting research suggests that while moderate sexual activity has protective effects, excessive frequency might not offer additional benefits. 🛑 Experts caution against formal recommendations, emphasizing proven preventive measures like a healthy diet and regular exercise. In recent years, the intricate connection between male sexual health and overall well-being has captured the attention of the scientific community. Among various lifestyle factors, researchers are now exploring the potential role of ejaculation frequency in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. This interest stems from the notion that regular sexual activity might contribute to the prevention of this prevalent disease. While the topic remains a point of contention among experts, it continues to provoke curiosity and debate within the medical field. This article delves into the existing research, weighing both the promising findings and the cautionary notes from the scientific community. The Science Behind Sexual Activity and Prostate Health Prostate cancer stands as the most common cancer among men in many parts of the world, including the United States, accounting for a significant portion of male cancer diagnoses annually. While factors such as age, family history, and ethnicity are well-established risk aspects, they are unfortunately unchangeable. Consequently, researchers have long been interested in identifying modifiable behaviors that could influence the development of this disease. One such behavior is the frequency of ejaculation. The hypothesis, dating back over fifty years, suggests that regular ejaculation might reduce the buildup of potentially harmful substances in the prostate. Known as the 'prostatic congestion theory,' this idea has gained traction through large-scale studies. A notable study from the Harvard School of Public Health followed over 31,000 men for nearly two decades. It found that men who reported at least 21 ejaculations per month between the ages of 40 and 49 experienced a 22% reduced risk of prostate cancer compared to those with fewer than eight ejaculations a month. This reduction was particularly observed in less aggressive forms of the disease. « This brewing habit could silently hurt you »: these common coffee preparation methods directly linked to increased heart disease risk Debating the Correlation Between Ejaculation Frequency and Prostate Cancer Despite the optimistic results from American studies, other research provides a more nuanced view. A meta-analysis conducted in China, published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, reviewed data from 22 studies involving over 55,000 men. It concluded that while moderate ejaculation frequency—around two to four times per week—was associated with reduced cancer risk, exceeding this threshold did not provide further protection and might even reverse benefits in some cases. Several explanations are proposed for these findings. High-frequency ejaculation could indicate increased hormonal activity, such as elevated testosterone levels, which may stimulate prostate cell proliferation. Additionally, men with numerous sexual partners might face a higher risk of sexually transmitted infections, potentially leading to chronic inflammation in the genital area. Social and behavioral factors, including diet and medication use, also vary among individuals, complicating analysis. Discover the Top Nutrient-Rich Foods that Can Assist in Your Weight Loss Journey Another significant limitation is the reliance on self-reported data, introducing potential inaccuracies. The slow progression of prostate cancer, often diagnosed decades after exposure to risk factors, further complicates data interpretation. Researchers note that even with extended follow-up, observed effects remain modest, primarily affecting early-stage cancer forms. Why Experts Urge Caution Despite Encouraging Data Currently, no medical authority explicitly recommends increasing ejaculation frequency as a preventive measure. The European Association of Urology, for instance, emphasizes proven benefits of balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. These factors hold stronger evidence for reducing prostate cancer risk. 'Your Breath Is a Signature': Scientists Reveal Human Breath Is as Unique and Traceable as a Fingerprint However, this does not mean that sexuality should be disregarded. Regular sexual activity, when part of a consensual and infection-free relationship, has no known detrimental effects on the prostate. It might even contribute to hormonal and immune balance, though mechanisms require further confirmation. The Harvard study highlights potential roles for oxytocin and endorphins released during orgasm, known to modulate inflammation and boost immune response. While there is a discernible link between ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer risk, the correlation remains too tenuous for formal recommendations. Caution is therefore advised. Current data may reassure concerned patients, affirming that an active and fulfilling sexual life is not detrimental and might promote overall health balance. Navigating the Future of Prostate Cancer Prevention As research continues to explore the connection between ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer, it invites a broader discussion on lifestyle choices and their impact on health. The potential protective effects of regular sexual activity introduce intriguing possibilities for future preventive strategies. However, it is crucial to approach these findings with a balanced perspective, recognizing the multifaceted nature of cancer risk factors. Individuals are encouraged to focus on established preventive measures, such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity, while remaining informed about emerging research. As science advances, will we uncover more definitive links between lifestyle choices and cancer prevention, or will this remain a complex puzzle requiring further exploration? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.7/5 (22)
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Leading Germans slam 'chilling' plan to ban foreigners from Harvard
Two top German politicians have slammed plans by US President Donald Trump to block foreigners from studying at Harvard, with one - himself an alumnus of the elite university - saying it "sends out a chilling signal" and is "research policy suicide." "When the most important and highest performing universities are deliberately weakened, it is one of the most important pillars of the US economy that is being undermined," former German health minister and Harvard alumnus Karl Lauterbach, who now leads the country's parliamentary research committee, told Germany's Rheinische Post daily on Friday. Countless companies in the United States benefit from the knowledge that Harvard graduates bring with them, Lauterbach said, noting that "many foreign Harvard graduates stay in the United States after completing their studies." Lauterbach, who served as Germany's health minister until May 6, when a new government took over, has been a visiting lecturer at the Harvard School of Public Health since 1996, according to his CV on the German parliament's website. He was also enrolled in public health-related master programmes and a post-graduate programme at the university between 1989 and 1995, according to the CV. Lauterbach said he very much hoped that Trump's decision could still be reversed. "But even if that is possible, the attack on free teaching and research sends out a chilling signal." German Research Minister Dorothee Bär also expressed regret on Friday at the decision. "This saddens me very much. That's not a positive signal, neither for the young generation nor for the free world," Bär said, as she arrived at a meeting with her European Union counterparts in Brussels. "I very much hope that the US government will revoke this decision, because it really is fatal," she added. Administration cites anti-Semitism, extreme ideology Trump has accused Harvard and other elite US universities of pursuing a left-wing ideology and allowing anti-Semitism on campus. His administration sent a list of demands on April 11 to the institution, which Harvard has refused to adopt. US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said on Thursday the administration was "holding Harvard accountable for fostering violence, anti-Semitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party on its campus." She revoked the university's certification to receive foreign students and exchange visitors for what she said was "pro-terrorist conduct." This means that Harvard's international students would have to transfer to other universities or risk losing their legal status, Noem said in a statement. Earlier this year, the Trump administration froze more than $2 billion in federal grants and contracts at Harvard. Three-digit number of German students at Harvard The Foreign Office is aware of a three-digit number of German students currently studying at Harvard, a spokesman said in Berlin on Friday without elaborating. He announced prompt discussions with Washington regarding the impact that the proposed ban will have on the German students. The German government perceives this as an urgent matter and will express the expectation that their concerns and interests will be adequately considered, he said. Deputy German government spokesman Sebastian Hille said that free science is at the core of liberal societies. "Restrictions on academic freedom are restrictions on democracy itself," he said.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
'Chilling signal': Harvard alumnus former German minister slams US
Former German health minister and Harvard alumnus Karl Lauterbach has described the US decision to block the elite university from enrolling foreign students as "research policy suicide." "When the most important and highest-performing universities are deliberately weakened, it is one of the most important pillars of the US economy that is being undermined," Lauterbach, who now leads the country's parliamentary research committee, told Germany's Rheinische Post daily on Friday. Countless companies in the United States benefit from the knowledge that Harvard graduates bring with them, Lauterbach said, noting that "many foreign Harvard graduates stay in the United States after completing their studies." Lauterbach, who served as Germany's health minister until May 6, when a new government took over, has been a visiting lecturer at the Harvard School of Public Health since 1996, according to his CV on the German parliament's website. He was also enrolled in public health-related master programmes and a post-graduate programme at the university between 1989 and 1995, according to the CV. Lauterbach said he very much hoped that Trump's decision could still be reversed. "But even if that is possible, the attack on free teaching and research sends out a chilling signal."
