"Of the 54 million deaths worldwide in 2015, over half (54%) were due to the top 10 causes. Heart attacks and strokes are the leading causes, accounting for a combined 15 million deaths in 2015. These diseases have remained the leading causes of death globally for the last 15 years," according to the World Health Organization. Ischemic heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease or coronary heart disease, is a condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood and oxygen flow to the heart. This ischemia can lead to a heart attack. A stroke happens when the blood supply to parts of the brain is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and causing them to die. This can result in loss of functions controlled by the affected brain areas. Annually, strokes cause over 6 million deaths and leave an additional 5 million people permanently disabled. Both conditions can be influenced by genetic predispositions and lifestyle choices. While we cannot control our genetics, we ca...

The length of the little finger is said to disclose astonishing personality traits and can be indicative of a person's character. Observe your hands; they are believed to convey essential insights into your personality. Pay attention to your little finger's length. Do you identify as A, B, or C? Such a test is thought to be quite precise in assessing an individual's personality. Type A These individuals tend not to display their emotions and are introverted at heart. They find expressing their feelings challenging and often opt not to. They appear as strong, independent people who despise dishonesty and hypocrisy. Being around them is straightforward as they are devoted and go the extra mile for those they care about. Naturally, they expect the same honesty and devotion in return. At times, they may come across as aloof and reserved, particularly when interacting with strangers. Their perceived arrogance and unconventional demeanor may repel newcomers, but this is si...

Serotonin is commonly known as a key chemical for happiness and well-being. It's a neurotransmitter, one of the brain's four main chemicals, which includes acetylcholine, dopamine, and GABA, that transmits signals from the brain to the body. Serotonin, or ser-o-TOE-nin, is one of the neurotransmitters that carry signals along nerves. Remarkably, 80 to 90 percent of serotonin is located in the gastrointestinal tract, playing a vital role in both brain and bodily functions. This chemical is produced through a biochemical conversion process. Tryptophan, a basic building block of proteins, combines with hydroxylase, triggering a chemical reaction that results in the creation of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HTP), also known as serotonin. Serotonin's importance is multifaceted. It's best known for mood regulation, but it also maintains normal appetite, digestion, social behavior, and sleep patterns. In terms of cognitive functions, it mainly influences learning and memory. A defi...

Like many people, you might have a particular area of your body that stubbornly holds onto fat, despite efforts to eat healthily and exercise. Often, this troublesome spot is the thighs. Does this resonate with you? Sculpting the thighs and shedding excess fat from this area, also known as the flanks, can be a significant challenge. While both men and women may struggle with unwanted 'saddlebags,' women are more prone to accumulate weight here due to factors like childbearing and hormones. In contrast, men typically store excess fat in their abdomen, leading to the well-known 'beer belly.' THE THIGHS HAVE IT Regardless of gender, having strong, toned thighs supports your body, enhances your daily activities, and looks great in any attire. The technical term for 'thunder thighs' or 'saddlebags' is gluteofemoral fat, which is subcutaneous, lying just under the skin. On the other hand, fat around the midsection is known as visceral fat because it surrounds...

How can one stop drooling? The image that often comes to mind when thinking of nighttime drooling is a comical one: a person with saliva dripping from the corner of their mouth. It's commonly overlooked. During sleep, our salivary muscles and glands relax, leading to excessive drooling, also known as hypersalivation or sialorrhea. If you find yourself drooling excessively, leaving saliva stains on your pillow, particularly as a side sleeper, this article is for you. It will enlighten you about the causes, treatments, and other useful information. What Causes Drooling? It may come as a surprise that our salivary glands produce less saliva during sleep. So, why do we drool? The answer lies in gravity. There are numerous reasons for drooling; let's examine a few: 1. Using a Night Guard: For some, wearing a dental night guard can be uncomfortable. Having something in your mouth all night can feel odd, and it may take a month to adjust properly. While drooling is not inherently bad...

The foot is a remarkable structure. "The NHS Choices website indicates that there is 'reasonably good evidence' to support the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating a variety of conditions, such as back pain, dental pain, headaches, postoperative nausea, and knee osteoarthritis. Patient anecdotes also support these claims..." – David Derbyshire Two millennia later... Acupuncture continues to defy skeptics. If mindfulness meditation is considered 'Exhibit A' in the metaphorical defense of traditional therapies, then acupuncture stands as 'Exhibit B.' Despite some vocal skepticism from a minority in the medical community, certain traditional medicine practices have shown to be beneficial. FOOT PADS AND ACUPUNCTURE One might ask, "What do foot pads have to do with acupuncture?" It's a valid question. The simple answer is "quite a bit." Studies have demonstrated that acupuncture's effectiveness is partly due to its impact on...

Lemons are not only excellent for culinary uses, enhancing flavors, adding zest to beverages, or freshening scents, but they also have lesser-known applications beyond food. Like vinegar, lemons possess cleaning and disinfecting properties that make them versatile for household use. Remarkably, every part of the lemon can be utilized—the peel, juice, and pulp. Why are lemons effective cleaners? The sourness of lemons comes from citric acid, making them highly acidic—more so than orange juice or black coffee. This acidity is crucial for their cleaning prowess. While many soaps are alkaline and lack acids, acids can dissolve impurities and are beneficial for cleaning. They can remove stains, especially those caused by other acids, and when mixed with alkaline substances, they produce potent chemical reactions. Therefore, lemons can: Lift stains Act as antibacterial agents, and Neutralize unpleasant smells. Below are 12 alternative uses for lemons besides their culinary applications....

Scientists at Oxford University have confirmed that unrefined honey functions similarly to antibiotics, but without the adverse side effects. The research team from Oxford University investigated the true potential of unrefined honey as a substitute for conventional antibiotics. The latest findings suggest that honey is just as effective as antibiotics in treating coughs and colds. The researchers evaluated studies and assessed the benefits provided by honey. They gauged its effectiveness against cough suppressants, antihistamines, and painkillers. The outcomes indicated that honey is side-effect free and more effective at treating common cold symptoms than other medications. Honey has been shown to reduce cough by 44%. It is 36% more effective in reducing cough frequency than other medications. Research indicates that honey can shorten the recovery time from upper respiratory tract infections. Oxford researchers analyzed 14 studies with 1,761 participants. An article in the Briti...

Teeth whitening is the world's most popular cosmetic service, and the reasons are clear. Just as our hair and skin color vary, so do our "tooth genetics." For some, yellowing and discoloration of teeth are more pronounced. Lifestyle significantly affects the health and appearance of your teeth. The frequency of smoking tobacco, drinking coffee, brushing, flossing, and maintaining oral hygiene all contribute to your teeth's condition. The downsides of teeth whitening? It can be costly and time-consuming, with professional treatments reaching up to $650 in the US. Moreover, many people dread dental visits, with polls indicating that up to 80 percent of individuals fear dental offices. But is it possible to skip the dentist and whiten teeth at home? Absolutely. We'll explore not just one, but five ways to whiten your teeth at home, all of which are affordable and require nothing more than common household items and a bit of patience. HERE ARE 5 METHODS TO WHITEN YOU...

Ready to get your heart racing and burn fat quickly? High-intensity workouts are effective for burning fat and calories. If you're weary of daily runs, battling the elements, or the monotony of a treadmill, consider taking your workout indoors. Replace your usual jog with exercises specifically designed for weight loss. It's beneficial to mix up your routine and experiment with new activities. This doesn't mean you'll give up running forever; it simply means you're adapting your regimen to optimize your body's workout. Exercise caution with any cardio workout to avoid overexertion and muscle strain. It's crucial to find the right intensity to prevent overwhelming your body and risking illness. ON THE CARDIO BANDWAGON? Many people embrace cardio enthusiastically, only to realize they may be approaching it incorrectly. The common belief is that persistent cardio is the key to weight loss, body toning, and overall health. While it has many benefits, it's i...

Weeds are generally unwelcome among gardeners and those with green spaces around their homes. Like other plants, weeds can germinate regularly and may be annual, biennial, or perennial. Due to their rapid spread and the difficulty of physical removal, owners often resort to chemical agents to eradicate them. Weed Killers Since the 1940s, farmers have been using herbicides to combat the proliferation of weeds in their fields. These herbicides serve as tools for weed control, with selective herbicides being the most common. They target specific plants while leaving the desired crops relatively unharmed. The Five Healthiest Backyard Weeds Not all weeds need to be removed from green spaces, as some can be beneficial for health, such as: Dandelion – the entire plant is edible, and its leaves are akin to vitamin supplements, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, manganese, and potassium. Lamb's-quarters – similar to spinach but more nutritious, tastier, and easier ...

Plantar Fasciitis Feet are the most utilized parts of the human body, serving as extensions of the legs that enable movement. Without them, mobility would be impossible. Feet bear our full weight, allowing us to stand and move. Thus, foot health is crucial for our overall well-being. Over 50% of Americans experience foot pain, making accurate diagnosis essential. A common cause of foot pain is damage to the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a robust, web-like ligament in our feet, connecting the heel to the front of the foot. It supports the foot's arch and acts as a shock absorber. Pain at the bottom of the heel may indicate plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia wears down over time. Excessive pressure can risk tearing or inflammation, leading to heel pain. The exact cause of fasciitis discomfort is unclear, but degeneration may play a role. The primary symptom is heel pain, which may also occur in the mid-foot area. It typically affects one foot but can involve both. Planta...

The World Health Organization reports that annual influenza epidemics lead to approximately 250,000 to 500,000 deaths out of 3-5 million cases of severe illness globally. Individuals with certain health conditions or compromised immune systems, particularly the elderly, are most vulnerable. Nonetheless, a flu emergency can occur in anyone, which is why recognizing the signs is crucial. Common symptoms include: Fever exceeding 100°F Intense weakness or fatigue Significant muscle and joint pain Chills Warm, flushed skin with red, watery eyes Persistent dry cough Headache Sore throat and runny nose Flu Symptom Treatment Effective flu treatments involve: Staying home to rest. Consuming ample fluids. Minimizing contact with others. Taking antiviral medications if there's a high risk of complications. Adhering to these seven tips can aid in a swift recovery: 1. Stay hydrated The flu takes a toll on the body, whether it's a mild or severe strain. It's crucial to stay hydrated. We...

The international community was stunned upon discovering North Korea's approach to addressing its food scarcity by utilizing pets. In July, Kim Jong-un announced that pet ownership is now illegal, labeling it as a "tainted trend of bourgeois ideology." "Households with pet dogs have been identified by the authorities, who are then compelling owners to surrender their pets or are forcibly seizing and euthanizing them," reported a source to South Korea's Chosun Ilbo. "Some dogs are being sent to state-run zoos or sold to dog meat restaurants." North Korea is grappling with significant food shortages, as indicated by a UN report, affecting millions. Dog meat is a sought-after food in the nation, leading many to believe that Kim Jong-un's directive is a response to this crisis. "Whereas the general populace tends to raise pigs and livestock on their porches, it's the high-ranking officials and the affluent who have pet dogs, which has cau...

An aneurysm is defined as "an abnormal bulge or ballooning in the wall of a blood vessel. An aneurysm can burst, causing internal bleeding and potentially leading to death." A migraine is described as "a throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head," according to The Mayo Clinic. The Story of Lee Broadway On April 1, 2017, Lee Broadway, a wife and mother of four, tragically passed away from a brain aneurysm after experiencing a severe migraine. She had been dealing with migraine headaches since she was eight years old. Her husband, Eric Broadway, was initially assured by emergency room doctors that "Everything looks good," only to be told two hours later that "There's nothing we can do." Eric revealed that a severe complication occurred during his wife's aneurysm procedure, which led to excessive bleeding in her brain. Lee's life, along with what would have been her 42nd birthday on April 8th, was commemorat...

Emotional instability might indicate a deeper issue within an individual. It could signify a personality disorder, such as borderline personality disorder, or be a symptom of childhood trauma, depression, or an anxiety disorder.  The manifestations of emotional instability are diverse; individuals may exhibit signs of depression and anxiety, along with various behaviors that impact themselves and those around them. The Counselling Directory notes, "They might experience intense episodes of anger, anxiety, or depression lasting several hours or days. Mood swings can oscillate between periods of dysphoria and euphoria, and from manic self-confidence to severe anxiety and irritability." Recognizing the signs of emotional instability is crucial if you suspect someone might be suffering. Understanding these signs equips you to comprehend their needs better and offer support without being personally affected by their behaviors, or to assist them in seeking the help they need to ma...