GOQii

Blog

Archives for September 2024

By Leave a Comment

Understanding Dengue and Chikungunya: Prevention and Treatment

Dengue and ChikungunyaMumbai has witnessed a significant outbreak with 1,700 cases of Dengue and 267 cases of Chikungunya reported from July to mid-September 2024 as per the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (BMC’s) health update. BMC attributes this rise to erratic monsoon patterns contributing to increased mosquito breeding.

Global and Environmental Factors

The World Health Organization highlights that factors such as global travel, unplanned urbanization, and climate change significantly influence the spread of these vector-borne diseases.

The Culprit: Aedes Aegypti Mosquito

Both Dengue and Chikungunya are transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This mosquito is most active during daylight hours, particularly around sunrise and sunset, increasing the risk of bites during these times.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Chikungunya symptoms include:

  • High fever (101-105°F)
  • Severe joint pain
  • Additional symptoms may include chills, headache, nausea, and rash.

Dengue shares similar initial symptoms with Chikungunya, such as high fever and severe pain, but can also lead to:

  • Hemorrhagic manifestations
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Persistent vomiting

Blood tests are essential for diagnosing these diseases, with specific tests available for each.

Treatment Guidelines: (Consult the Doctor and do not administer medicines on your own)

Treatment primarily involves managing symptoms:

  • Fever and Pain: Paracetamol is recommended; Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used carefully to manage joint pain.
  • Hydration: At least 3 liters of water per day to counter dehydration.
  • Severe Cases: Hospitalization may be necessary for severe Dengue symptoms, including low platelet count and significant blood pressure drops.

Preventive Measures

Preventing mosquito bites is crucial:

  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers.
  • Use mosquito repellent and nets.
  • Avoid water stagnation, which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Community Action

Proper disposal of waste like plastic bottles and ensuring no water is pooled in places such as plant trays or coolers is essential. Covering water containers can prevent mosquito breeding.

As Mumbai battles these health crises, timely community engagement and adherence to health advisories will play a pivotal role in controlling the spread. Awareness, prevention, and timely medical intervention are key to managing Dengue and Chikungunya effectively.

#BeTheForce

By 6 Comments

Importance of Vitamin D For Boosting Immunity

Vitamin DVitamin D, commonly known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is actually a pro-hormone produced in the body upon exposure to sunlight. This essential nutrient exerts significant influences on multiple systems across the body

Health Benefits of Vitamin D 

  • Promotes Healthy Bones and Teeth: Crucial for calcium absorption, which is essential for maintaining bone health.
  • Supports Immune, Brain, and Nervous System Health: Boosts immune function and supports cognitive and nervous system functions.
  • Regulates Insulin Levels and Aids Diabetes Management: Assists in maintaining normal blood sugar levels.
  • Maintains Healthy Lung Function and Cardiovascular Health: Supports lung function and helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Influences Gene Expression Related to Cancer: Involved in regulating genes that may be linked to cancer development.

How Does It Improve Immunity Levels?

The human body fights infections using two types of immune systems – the innate system (which provides a quick, general response) and the adaptive system (which produces a slower but highly specific response, such as antibody production). Vitamin D modulates both systems, which explains its wide-ranging effects on the immune system.

Vitamin D deficiency is more common in individuals experiencing seasonal cold and flu outbreaks. During the winter and seasonal changes, there is less sunlight, leading to lower Vitamin D levels and reduced immunity.

Why Do Immune Cells Need Vitamin D?

Vitamin D has a “non-classic” role in modulating the body’s immune responses to illness or infection. Vitamin D receptors are found throughout the body, including in immune cells. T cells, which are crucial for fighting infections, need vitamin D to become activated. Without sufficient vitamin D, T cells remain dormant and unable to protect the body effectively.

How Do You Get Enough Of Vitamin D?

1. Sunlight

Getting enough sunlight is the best way to help the body produce sufficient Vitamin D. Exposing your skin to the sun for 20 to 30 minutes a day ensures enough UVB rays come into contact with the cholesterol in the skin, enabling Vitamin D synthesis.

However, several factors affect Vitamin D production from sunlight:

  • Time of Day: The skin produces more Vitamin D when exposed to the sun during midday (between 10 am to 2 pm) when the sun is at its highest.
  • Sunscreen: Sunscreen blocks UVB rays, limiting Vitamin D production. It is best to allow some direct sun exposure to the skin.
  • Skin Exposure: The more skin you expose, the more Vitamin D your body will produce. Consider wearing short sleeves or shorts when possible.
  • Skin Colour: People with lighter skin produce Vitamin D more quickly than those with darker skin due to lower melanin levels.
  • Geographical Location: Living farther from the equator means less UVB radiation, especially during the winter months in the UK.
  • Always remember: Frequent, moderate sun exposure is beneficial, but prolonged exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer. Balance is key.

2. Food Sources

While sunlight is the best source of Vitamin D, certain foods can help increase levels:

  • Fatty Fish (Salmon, trout, mackerel, and sardines)
  • Egg Yolks
  • Cheese
  • Mushrooms (exposed to sunlight)
  • Fortified Foods (milk, cereals, and juices)

3. Supplements

If you have limited exposure to sunlight or are experiencing symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency (such as frequent illness, fatigue, bone pain, or muscle weakness), consider taking supplements. In the UK, the NHS recommends adults and children over 1 year should consider taking a daily supplement of 10 micrograms (400 IU) of Vitamin D, particularly during autumn and winter.

Note: Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplements.

Hope this article helps you understand the importance of the Sunshine Vitamin, especially to boost immunity. For more tips on boosting your immunity, reach out to a GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

By 2 Comments

Healthy Habits to Reduce Stress

stress reduction

Ever felt like you don’t have the time to eat, exercise, or interact with friends and family? Have deadlines and responsibilities chained you down in more ways than one? Do you spend most of your time at work with little activity? Are all these situations creating a stressful environment and draining your energy and mental health?

If your answer to the above was a yes, it is time you addressed these issues. Coping with expectations at work and at home can be taxing. While these are important, remember that nothing is worth sacrificing your health.

The simplest way to reduce stress is to keep your mind at ease and your body healthy with simple lifestyle changes and time management. Letting go of bad habits and introducing a few healthy tweaks can help you rekindle your relationship with your mind and body!

Here are a few changes you can make to reduce stress:

  • Start Your Day with Breathing Exercises or Meditation: Practicing different forms of Pranayama or  basic stretches can reduce stress and keep you energized throughout the day.
  • Plan Your Tasks: Spend some time planning your day to stay organized and avoid last-minute rushes that could lead to stress.
  • Limit Gadget Use: Use gadgets only for work or as and when necessary. Overindulgence in gadgets can lead to depression and cut you off from the real world. Set specific times for usage and avoid them at least an hour or two before sleep.
  • Set Alarms for Water Intake: Dehydration can affect cortisol levels, a stress hormone that impacts both mind and body. Staying hydrated can help reduce stress.
  • Walk Whenever Possible: If your workplace is within walking distance, opt to walk or cycle instead of driving. Walking releases endorphins, elevates your mood, and improves heart rate. Choose stairs over escalators or elevators as it is the best and easiest form of exercise!
  • Take Breaks: Spend time with family, friends and loved ones. A healthy social life fosters deeper connections and make life more meaningful.
  • Plan a Trip or Vacation: Whether with others or solo, a change in environment can boost creativity, positivity, and help you exchange new thoughts and ideas.
  • Eat Fruits Daily: Different fruits provide various nutrients that help reduce stress. For example, Bananas have Tryptophan, Avocados have Vitamin B, Sweet Potatoes have Potassium and Magnesium, all of which help lower stress levels.
  • Indulge in Hobbies: No matter how busy you are, hobbies help you relax. Whether it’s a sport, music, traveling, or painting, setting time aside for your passions will enrich your life.

Remember the old saying, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”? It’s true! Take time for yourself. If you’re only working and not playing, are you really living? Your work targets can be achieved, and your relationships with friends and family can be sustained—but only if you prioritize your health. Make your physical and mental well-being a priority!

Want to learn more about managing stress? Check out Healthy Reads or ask a GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

By 1 Comment

3 DIY Face Masks For Younger, Glowing Skin

face masksImagine achieving younger, glowing skin without the need for makeup… does it sound impossible? Nothing is impossible when you have the right means to achieve your goals. Today, I’ll share some simple yet amazing natural face masks that are both economical and effective!

These will require a little bit of effort on your part, but as the saying goes, no good thing ever came easy!

1. Multani Mitti Face Mask

The oil-absorbing properties of Multani Mitti or Fuller’s Earth, make it effective against acne and help speed up the healing process. It helps remove dead skin cells, blackheads, and whiteheads. Multani Mitti also provides an amazing natural and healthy glow!

What You Will Need:

  • Multani Mitti – 1 tbsp
  • Neem Powder – 1 tbsp
  • Aloe Vera Gel – 1 tsp
  • Rose Water – 1 tbsp

Method: Mix all the ingredients together and make a smooth paste. Apply it all over your face and neck. Keep it on until it dries, then wash it off with cold water.

Say hello to your rejuvenated skin!

2. Yogurt Hydration Face Mask

The lactic acid in yogurt will help dissolve dead skin and tighten pores. The honey in this face mask will beautifully hydrate the skin.

What You Will Need:

  • Yogurt/Curd – 2 tbsp
  • Honey – 1 tsp
  • Lemon Juice – 1 tsp

Method: Mix all the ingredients well and apply the mixture to your face. Allow it to stay for 20 minutes, then rinse it off with cold water. Healthy skin is on its way.

3. Besan Haldi Face Mask

Trust me, our basic home-based ingredients yield the best results. Turmeric, combined with gram flour, helps brighten the skin.

What You Will Need:

  • Besan – 1 tbsp
  • Turmeric – ½ tsp
  • Vitamin E Capsule – 1
  • Rose Water – 1 tbsp

Method: Mix all the ingredients into a smooth paste and apply it all over your face. It will take more than 20 minutes to dry up and for the contents to be absorbed. Wash it off with cold water.

The best thing about these face masks is that you can use them daily and get healthy, radiant skin from the comfort of your home. Do try these out and leave your thoughts in the comments below! For more on skincare, check out Healthy Reads or speak to a certified expert by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

From Terminal Illness To Complete Wellness! Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

As we observe World Cancer Day under the powerful theme ‘United by Unique’ (2025-2027)**, we are reminded that every individual’s journey with cancer is distinct, yet united by shared resilience, hope, and the collective fight against this disease. This theme places people at the centre of care and their stories at the heart of the […]