Blog | Page 25 of 54 | Howard Fensterman Charities

A Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis

A cannabis leaf and black stethoscope on a white background

Photo by iQoncept – yayimages.com

What is it about marijuana that fascinates so many people? Recently, there has been a high demand for its legalization across the country today. As the knowledge regarding the medicinal and therapeutic benefits that cannabis is believed to offer becomes prevalent, there has been an outcry for its legalization, both for medical and recreational use.

As a result, the drug has been legalized in many countries – some have attached conditions to its distribution and usage, while others have completely authorized its usage unconditionally. Many other countries are in the process of making amendments in laws regarding the drug’s status and usage.

An Introduction to Cannabis

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is one of the most popular drugs in the world. While there are claims that certain strains of this plant can help treat and manage a number of health conditions – including the ones that medical science has not been able to find cures for – marijuana use still falls under the Schedule I category of controlled and illegal substances.

Where Does Cannabis Come From?

Cannabis comes from the buds, flowers, stems, leaves, and seeds of the Indian hemp plant, also called Cannabis plant. While there are many different varieties of the plant, the drug is derived from the only two varieties – Indica and Sativa.

A dried mixture of marijuana seeds, flowers, stems, and leaves is used to experience the effects. It is usually brown, green, or gray in color.

Alternative Names for Cannabis

There are a lot of different names for the cannabis drug. Some of the commonly known ones are: marijuana, pot, weed, dope, hash, joint, gunja, yarndi, stick and cone.

Cannabis’ Effects on the Human Body

How cannabis interacts with the human brain and body depends upon a variety of factors. These include the strain of the plant, dosage, method of consumption, the biology of the person’s body, and even their age.

This is why the drug affects every person in a different manner – some people find it highly effective in relieving symptoms of certain diseases, while others find it ineffective or even counter-productive.

Research has shown that Cannabinoids – the chemicals found in the cannabis plant – have a chemical structure similar to some naturally occurring compounds in the human body. Due to this, when cannabinoids enter into the body, they get attached to the brain receptors looking for similar compounds and provide relief from certain health problems.

Most Important Chemicals in Cannabis Plant

The cannabis plant contains around 400 different types of chemicals, 80 of which are known as cannabinoids. But only two of the cannabinoids are known for producing the effects that the drug is widely known for. The chemicals – Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – produce contrasting effects on the human mind and body.

CBD is known to help manage and treat various health issues whereas TCH has been found to produce psychotropic and mind-altering effects. THC is responsible for causing the ‘high’ that is associated with cannabis.

Some Commonly Used Forms and Methods of Cannabis Consumption

Cannabis is available in a variety of forms and people use different methods to consume the drug. Some of the commonly used ones are:

The most common way to consume cannabis is smoking the dried plant i.e. marijuana in a bong or joint.
The dried plant resin is often mixed with tobacco and smoked. However, it can also be added to various foods and baked. Known as Hashish, it is widely used in brownies and cookies.
Hash oil

As evident from the name, this is the liquid form of the drug. It is often consumed by adding it on the tip of a cigarette.

Cannabis produces immediate effects when smoked, but it takes an hour or so to show results when eaten. The time taken by the drug to show its effects is proportional to the increased likelihood of over-dosage.

Health Benefits Cannabis Can Provide

Research shows that CBD which can be referred to as the good chemical, is safe and well-tolerated when consumed as prescribed. Also, it can provide relief from many health conditions. Some of the health issues CBD are said to help with are:

Chronic pain
Anxiety
Nausea caused due to chemotherapy
Muscle spasms or stiffness due to multiple sclerosis
Seizures caused due to epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and Dravet syndrome
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

There is also limited evidence that cannabis can benefit people experiencing from:

Sleep problems due to sleep apnea, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, and long-term pain
Extreme weight loss and reduced appetite due to AIDS

Effects of Recreational Usage

When used for recreational purposes, cannabis can cause any of the following effects:

Nausea
Increased appetite (‘the munchies’)
Altered thinking
Slight hallucinations
Increased heart rate
Reduced blood pressure
Reduced psychomotor coordination
Increased breathing rate
Mood alteration, such as relaxation or euphoria
Altered sense of time
Altered sense of distance
Impaired memory and coordination
Difficulty focusing

When marijuana is consumed in high quantities, cannabis can also cause delusions.

Possible Side Effects

The reason why it is recommended to always use cannabis under the supervision of a healthcare expert is because you need to be careful about the strain and dosage. The use of the wrong strain or overdose can cause a number of negative effects, some of which are:

When consumed for a long period of time, it can weaken the immune system. This makes a person more vulnerable to catch different types of infections and diseases.
When used without supervision, it can increase the risk of developing psychosis
Increases the risk of gum-related diseases
According to research, regular consumption of cannabis for a long time can negatively impact the functioning of the brain and can even lead to memory loss

Conclusion

Cannabis is a unique drug. On one hand, there is a significant amount of evidence that it can help to manage or treat a variety of health problems. On the other hand, there is research that does not support the use of cannabis due to its potential negative effects.

What makes the situation even more complicated is the fact that even though the medicinal use of the drug has been legalized in about 60% of the U.S., the Drug Enforcement Administration still classifies it as a Schedule I drug. Due to these opposing views, the legalization of cannabis has been one of the most debated issues lately.

To sum up, it can be said that pot use shouldn’t be freely consumed by anyone. Since there are a number of factors that need to be considered to gain the benefits, using cannabis without consulting a doctor is not recommended. Even when intended to use for medical purposes, cannabis should always be taken under the supervision of a healthcare expert.

Medical Advancements of 2018

Robot touching computer screen — 3D rendering 3D illustration medical artificial intelligence robot working in a future hospital.

There is an expression termed Moore’s Law that states that the number of transistors in an integrated circuit doubles about every two years. What this means in layman’s terms is that the processing power of computers increases 100% every two years; hence, modern science has become the benefactor of this continuous increase of power. And medical technology is no stranger to this occurrence.

For as long as the human race has existed, we have been fortunate enough to have people who dedicate their lives to the well-being of others and when you combine these heroes of science with the ongoing medical breakthroughs, we have seen remarkable advancements in medicine in 2018.

As 2018 has come to an end, we think it is fitting that we spread the news of the notable advancements this year has brought us.

An Incredible Breakthrough with Cancer Vaccine

Illustration of Distance Perception — Bigstock

In February 2018, the researchers at Stanford University announced that they’ll begin testing their new cancer vaccine. The medical team led by Dr. Ronald Levy came up with a novel cancer therapy that managed to work its wonders on mice. When injected with it, all traces of cancerous tumors in mice were eliminated.

Like Dr. Levy said, “Our approach uses a one-time application of very small amounts of two agents to stimulate the immune cells only within the tumor itself.”

The vaccine includes immune-stimulating agents that are strong enough to kill cancerous cells in mice. This test result was extremely positive, and it was time to test it on humans.

15 Lymphoma patients are currently being treated with this vaccine. If this incredible shot works, it could be the end of Lymphoma cancer as we know it.

A Strategy to Lower LDL Cholesterol

For decades, medical researchers have been fighting tooth and nail to lower LDL cholesterol levels and save people from the number one killer of Americans – heart disease.

They came up with statins that were effective, but not effective enough. However, in 2015, the researchers were able to come up with PCSK9 inhibitors. These new drugs were able to attack the nasty LDL particles in the extracellular fluid.

When medical practitioners came up with the strategy to pair statins with PCSK9 inhibitors, it showed mind-blowing results. It saw a decrease in LDL levels by 75%. To control the LDL levels, the drug was also made more accessible to the common masses.

In 2018, trials and tests began to find out the ideal LDL level to prevent heart disease. With that figured out, and with a way to reach that level, treatment for heart disease doesn’t seem too far off in the horizon.

Discovery of Scalp Cooling to reduce Hair Fall after Chemotherapy

It takes an incredible amount of courage and strength to fight a disease like cancer. Anything that could be done to help the patients fight it with even more is always encouraged.

One of the nastiest side effects of chemotherapy is extreme hair loss in patients. In 2018, researchers discovered that reducing the temperature of the scalp right before, during, and after chemotherapy is an incredibly effective method to preserve hair in patients.

Gene Therapy for Retinal Disease

Another groundbreaking advancement in medicine this year was the approval of gene therapy by the FDA in 2018 –more specifically, gene therapy for inherited retinal disease.

This therapy delivers new genes in the targeted cells of the body and treats inherited blindness. In March 2018, a 13-year-old boy was the first patient to receive this treatment for his inherited blindness called Luxturna. The update on the patient, Jack Hogan, is that he has better vision in low light, he can play basketball outside in the evening with his friends, he can go to the movies, and he can even read 40 percent in smaller print.

This is just one patient who saw a drastic change in his life because of this medical advancement in 2018. We can safely say that there will be many more in the years to come.

New Vaccines for a Large Population

2018 has seen rapid development in the production of new and improved vaccines. These vaccines with innovative mechanisms have made it possible to deliver them to a vast population.

The medical modernizers are working on edible, oral, and mucosally delivered vaccines. They are also coming up with vaccine chips and intranasal vaccines.

All these innovations are making it easier and possible for the vaccines to be stored, shipped, and delivered to patients regardless of the complexity of the situation.

Artificial Ovaries

After chemotherapy, many women are at risk of becoming infertile. For that reason, they remove their ovaries— partially or completely— before the treatment.

After the treatment, they get it transplanted back. However, the returned ovary often carries traces of cancerous cells in it, putting the patient at the risk of contracting the disease again.

The latest research in 2018 has seen progress with artificial ovaries. The Danish scientists, with the help of technology, have come up with a way to grow ovarian follicles on an engineered portion of the tissue. This tissue only contains proteins and collages and all the cancer cells are removed.

The mice have already accepted these artificial ovaries successfully and humans will be tested as well in the next few years.

Marijuana for Epilepsy

Non-administered use of marijuana is still as dangerous as before. However, medical researchers were able to discover that it helped treat two rare forms of childhood epilepsy.

Groundbreaking news was the approval of Epidiolex by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This drug is derived from cannabis, but it does not contain the psychoactive component of marijuana that makes people use it for recreational purposes.

These are just some of the medical advancements of 2018. All these minor and major medical advancements give hope to patients and are one of the reasons why medical researchers around the world are always hard at work.

The Complicated Link Between Marijuana and Schizophrenia

Man looking sad The relationship between medical cannabis and psychosis is a heated issue. Despite the fact that many research studies have been conducted on how cannabis affects the human brain and if the drug can be used to treat or manage certain mental health issues, scientists have been unable to reach a definitive conclusion. This is mainly because the research studies have provided mixed results.

While scientific research has not reached a conclusion, there have been a few anecdotal claims regarding the drug’s efficiency for treating and managing various health problems, including some mental health issues. The contradictory evidence has made the issue of cannabis legalization and its use for treatment even more controversial.

Before analyzing the link between marijuana and schizophrenia, let’s try to understand what schizophrenia is.

What is Schizophrenia?

Brain and Behavior Research Foundation explains schizophrenia as “a chronic brain and behavior disorder that affects a person’s thinking, feelings, and actions. The person can have trouble distinguishing reality from fantasy, expressing and managing emotions, and making decisions. The disease can also affect the patient’s thought processes, they may hear imaginary voices and may believe that other people are reading their minds, controlling their thoughts or plotting to harm them.”

Due to the debilitating effects, a person suffering from schizophrenia can become socially withdrawn, unresponsive, and emotionless.

Contrary to public perception, schizophrenia is different from split personality or multiple personality disorder. Unlike a person suffering from a split personality, patients of schizophrenia are non-violent – they do not pose any threat to people around them.

What Causes Schizophrenia?

Despite all the advancements in the field of medical science, the exact cause of this severe brain disorder is still unclear. Healthcare professionals and researchers are of the opinion that multiple factors can contribute to the development of schizophrenia. These are:

- Genetics
- Biology of a person’s brain— some abnormalities in the chemistry or structure of the brain can trigger the development of the disease.
- Immune disorders
- Certain viral infections
- A variety of psychological factors

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is not as common as other brain disorders. According to the American Psychiatric Association, less than one percent of people in the U.S. suffer from chronic brain disease. However, its symptoms are severe and disabling.

Patients with schizophrenia experience and exhibit the following behavioral changes during the early stages of the disease:

- Change in appearance and personal hygiene
- Strange body positioning
- Social withdrawal
- Being indifferent to important situations
- Distorted thinking and speech
- Hallucinations
- Hearing voices
- Disorganized or inappropriate behavior
- Lack of emotions as well as the inability to express
- Extreme apathy
- Inability to concentrate
- Inability to sleep
- Lack of drive or initiative
- Patients with schizophrenia constantly feel as if they are being watched

While these are some of the most common signs of schizophrenia, not every patient experiences the same symptoms; they differ from person to person, making the treatment even more difficult. Some people may develop the symptoms slowly, over months and maybe years, while others can develop them abruptly.

Treatment of Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is an incurable disease. However, there are medications and treatments available that can help manage the disease by reducing the severity of symptoms.

There are a variety of treatment methods that are used along with antipsychotic medicines. These include behavioral therapies, supportive psychotherapy, and other psychological treatments. In addition to reducing the severity of symptoms and improving the quality of life, these treatment methods also help prevent the relapse of the disease.

Cannabis and Schizophrenia – Understanding the Link Between Them

Does Schizophrenia Drive More Pot Use?

During the 1960s and 70s, scientists believed that people who use marijuana are more likely to develop a number of psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia; however, it was found that the disease can increase the likelihood of drug use – patients with schizophrenia are more likely to use marijuana than a healthy person due to their unique neurobiology. Dr. Suzi Gage, a research associate at the MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, said, “The evidence suggested that schizophrenia risk predicts the likelihood of trying cannabis”.

Does Pot Use Drive One to Schizophrenia?

A research study conducted in 2007 found that using the drug just once can make a person 40% more vulnerable to psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia, but if we look at the real situations, among the millions of people who use pot (both legally and illegally), those that fall ill to any type of diseases is quite low. That said, we are not including those who start pursuing more dangerous drugs because of their use of marijuana; such as cocaine, heroin, and opioids, and once one is using these narcotics, it is certainly a situation that may then lead one to schizophrenia, but we will leave that for a separate article.

There are many factors and evidence that challenge the research findings of marijuana use and schizophrenia. Many scientists refute the claims on the basis of the fact that while the use of marijuana has generally increased, the number of people suffering from schizophrenia has actually decreased. This leads many scientists to reach the conclusion that the relationship between the two factors isn’t causal but coincidental.

There are multiple factors that need to be considered to understand the link between marijuana and schizophrenia. Some of them are the age of the person, the amount of drug, how long the person has been consuming the drug and genetics.

Many modern research studies have found that the use of cannabis can lead to schizophrenia in people who have a genetic vulnerability, i.e., a family history of the disease.

Due to the different and often conflicting evidence, there is a lack of consensus among healthcare professionals and researchers. Also, the link between cannabis and schizophrenia is not clear yet.

According to the findings of a study that was conducted over more than 2000 healthy individuals and was published in Molecular Psychiatry in 2014:

“Although considerable evidence implicates cannabis use as a component cause of schizophrenia, it remains unclear whether this is entirely due to cannabis directly raising risk of psychosis, or whether the same genes that increase the risk of psychosis may also increase the risk of cannabis use.”

Cannabis for Treating Schizophrenia

While still in its early stages, there are some studies that have found that the use of marijuana may actually help patients with schizophrenia.

Some researchers at the University of Wollongong found that Cannabidiol (CBD) – a compound that is often termed as the magical compound of the cannabis plant – can provide symptomatic relief to people suffering from a brain disorder.

According to Dr. Katrina Green, the lead researcher, CBD can offer neurological support to cope with a number of mental disorders, ranging from schizophrenia to Alzheimer’s.

Bottom Line

In view of the diverse and contradictory evidence, researchers have reached the conclusion that the relationship between cannabis and schizophrenia is not clear-cut. On the other hand, the research regarding the effectiveness of medical cannabis in providing relief from the symptoms of schizophrenia is in its preliminary stages. It is too early to establish the claim; a thorough investigation is needed to confirm the findings.

Understanding Human Papillomavirus

Human Papillomaviruses (HPVs) are a broad category of diseases which comprise more than 200 related viruses. Papillomaviruses are small, double-stranded DNA viruses.

More than 40 of these can be easily transmitted through sexual interaction, from the skin or mucous membranes of other infected individuals. HPVs are also disseminated by vaginal, anal and oral sexual activity. In accordance with research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), HPV is the most frequent sexually transmitted disease that affects both genders. In fact, the prevalence is so high that between 80% to 90% of men and women who are sexually active will contract the infection at one point or another in their lifetime.

Moreover, nearly 79 million Americans are infected with HPV currently. In addition, about 14 million individuals are newly affected on an annual basis. These statistics underline the assessment made by CDC that HPV is insanely common. Other key points regarding human papillomavirus are that it can even result in genital warts and induce several types of cancers. It may also be spread during birth in some cases which then causes genital or respiratory system issues. Also, there is no discernible cure for HPV yet although effective vaccinations are recommended for adolescent children.

Causes

Human papillomavirus typically enters the body through a break or fissure in the skin.

Once it permeates the skin, the agent travels to the cells of the multiple layers of the skin, which are infected by the HPV. Once this is achieved, the virus is able to replicate and multiply inside the body.

Conventionally, the time taken between first contracting HPV and the emergence of lesions can be anywhere between months and even years in some cases. There is also a contingent of affected individuals who are completely unaware that they are suffering from HPV.

Like we mentioned before, HPV may be transmitted when a person comes in contact with another’s skin. This can incite issues such as skin warts i.e. plantar or common warts that may be acquired through a cut for instance. HPV can also cause warts of the genital variety, which can be quite contagious and are mostly contracted through sexual interaction with an infected person. Activities which may result in HPV may simply include kissing or making contact with private parts such as the scrotum, vagina, vulva or anus. Intercourse is obviously part of this as well.

Additionally, there are risk factors that pertain to HPV. For instance, age is one such determinant. Children and teenagers are generally at the greatest risk of contracting the disease. The number of sexual partners an individual has over a period of time is also an important variable. The higher the number, the greater the risk attached of developing genital HPV. Lastly, the immune system plays an important role as well. People who have an immune system that is compromised by factors like HIV/AIDS, organ transplant or simply consuming medication that affects it adversely, are at great risk also.

Symptoms

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has stated that warts associated with most HPV infections subside without any signs or symptoms whatsoever. However, the virus is still present in the infected person’s body. This is why there are cases where they may engage in a sexual encounter with another individual and pass on the HPV to that person unknowingly.

In cases where the virus does not automatically abate, it can create considerable health complications. Examples include genital and throat warts. The latter is also known as recurrent respiratory papillomatosis. HPV is also identified as the reason for cervical cancer and other cancers found in the genitals, head and neck region.

Furthermore, the types of HPV that cause warts are different from those which create cancerous cells. Therefore, having genital warts borne by HPV does not mean that the person will also develop cancer. However, cancers which are incited by HPV may show no symptoms until the cancer has reached an advanced stage unfortunately. Regular screenings can help in the diagnosis of HPV related health issues.

This is precisely why regular consultations and checkups with doctors are imperative. In several cases, cervical cancer may be prevented by observing an abnormality in the characteristics of cells that if left untreated, can gradually develop into cancer.

A pap test may be undertaken since it can detect abnormal cells if they are located in the individual’s cervix. Although it does not directly a test for cancer or HPV, the test is able to discern an anomaly in cell alterations that are typically caused by HPV.

There isn’t a test for high risk HPV however, especially that which may affect the vulva, penis, anus or throat. Also, the HPV itself does not manifest any symptoms until and unless it has already developed into a cancer.

Treatment

As it stands, there is no medical treatment for constant HPV infections that are not linked to irregular cell changes. However, genital warts, benign respiratory tract tumors and precancerous changes inside the cervix can be treated. Adequate methods include cryosurgery, which is executed by freezing which obliterates the tissues.

Also, a loop electrosurgical excision procedure or LEEP, which is the removal of cervical tissue with the use of a hot wire loop is another measure. So is surgical conization, which is done with a scalpel, a laser or in some cases, both in order to remove a cone shaped piece of tissue from the cervical canal. Another measure is called vaporization conization and uses a laser to destroy the cervical tissue.

Additionally, treatments for other benign respiratory tract tumors include topical chemicals and surgeries such as excisional, cryo, electro and laser. Other treatments are being put through the rigors of clinical trials and tests. These include a randomized controlled trial that can determine whether treatment of anal precancerous lesions can reduce the risk of anal cancer in those people who are HIV positive.

Stevia: An Organic Sugar Substitute with Zero Calories

Spoon spilling sugar onto a cup — Photo by Mathilde Langevin on Unsplash

Processed sugar is a substance that a majority of the human population is addicted to. From fizzy drinks to our favorite chocolates, a lot of today’s everyday dietary items are overflowing with processed sugar. You may have heard of the statement that a 250 ml serving of carbonated drinks has seven teaspoons of processed sugar in it or you may have heard some associated version of this.

Processed sugar is packed with calories, and that makes its excessive use detrimental to the human body. Having more sugary items in your daily diet can shoot up the total calorie count to unhealthy levels. Our contemporary lifestyles with minimal physical activity can’t burn down all those excess calories that we consume in the form of sugar. Nearly one-third of the US population is suffering from obesity, and the use of excessive sugar products is one of the main reasons behind that.

Sugar with Zero Calories

Sugar substitutes with zero calories and without their typical characteristics have been around for quite some time. Diabetic patients, for instance, have been using artificial sweeteners for their caffeine drinks for decades. However, all those sugar substitutes are synthetic. Moreover, they are not feasible to be used as a wider substitute for regular sugar. In addition, there have been studies that associate these types or sweeteners with cancer and other diseases.

Stevia: The Organic Sweetener?

Amid all the sugar substitutes available in the market, stevia extract might be the only organic option. Stevia is a leafy plant that belongs to the botanical family of ragweed. Stevia has a variety of sub-species from different geographic regions. For instance, stevia known as candy leaf is mostly cultivated in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. On the other hand, some of its species are native to Paraguay and Brazil.

The stevia strains grown in South America are more in demand because they are sweeter than any other of its species. It is believed that native people in the region have been using stevia as a natural sweetener for hundreds of years.

Not Like Regular Organic Sweeteners

Jar of sugar cubes — Photo: PublicDomainPictures.net

There are multiple organic sweeteners. Sugarcane is the single largest organic source for sugar production. Moreover, the roots of sugar beets are also used to produce natural sweeteners. All these organic sweeteners have one thing in common, i.e. they are packed with calories.

Stevia, on the other hand, is distinguished from the other organic sweeteners because it is completely free of calories. This quality of stevia makes it a sought-after commodity in the market of sugar substitute products.

Before we delve into the details of the nutritional use of stevia and its implications, it would be interesting to have a brief look at the history of this zero-calorie sweetener plant.

History of Stevia

An Italian botanist, Moises Santiago Bertoni, is believed to have discovered stevia at the end of the 19th century in Paraguay. It is important to mention that native Paraguayans were using the plant for hundreds of years. They used to call it kaahe (sweet herb) in their native language. From being used as a medicine ingredient to a sweetener, stevia already had extensive use when Bertoni stumbled upon this plant. At the time of discovery, Stevia was mostly grown in the wild, but after its saplings were identified and brought across the globe, it quickly turned into an easily available herb.

Benefits of Stevia

A stevia leaf has zero calories, but it is 200 times sweeter than regular sugar. Apart from providing zero-calorie sweetness in foods and drinks, stevia has also been studied for some of its medical implications. For instance, a study conducted last year indicated that stevia has shown positive effects against endocrine disorders. However, that was not a conclusive study. To make the medical use of stevia acceptable on a professional level, more research is definitely required.

Stevia as a Sugar Substitute and FDA Directives

Stevia is currently a part of the global sugar substitute market. However, the FDA has a contingency that only allows a particular extract (high purity steviol glycosides) safe for consumption. They have warned against the use of stevia leaves and crude extracts. The federal regulatory body believes that not enough research exists to back the use of untreated and whole stevia leaves. The FDA cites that crude stevia samples have not been tested for their effect on blood sugar levels. Moreover, researchers have yet to find the stevia effects on cardiovascular, reproductive and excretory systems.

It has also been noted that the ingestion of untreated stevia might lead to lower blood pressure. Under normal circumstances this would be a benefit; however, without maintaining control or monitoring of your blood pressure, it could be risky. Moreover, scientists believe that stevia has unknown effects on anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory activities within the body. This vagueness definitely makes it risky to use stevia in its raw form.

Market Overview of the Sugar Substitute Industry

Three years ago, the market for sugar substitutes was capped at $13 billion. It was also forecasted that it would expand to $16.5 billion by the end of 2020. In 2000, 18% of US adults were using artificial sweeteners. By 2012, this number went up to 24%. The US Department of Agriculture has concluded that US citizens have dropped the use of added sugar in the new millennium. All these findings clearly suggest that there is a lot of potentials for stevia to become the leading sugar substitute given that it has received the required scientific approval.

Zero-Calorie Items Might Not be the Ultimate Solution

Theoretically, cutting down calorie intake to minimum levels is the ultimate solution to deal with obesity. However, many nutritionists believe that that’s not the case. Some research studies have also raised doubts regarding the overselling of zero-calorie items to shed extra pounds. A study conducted in 2014 revealed that a low-calorie diet could lead to the development of overeating behavior in animals.

All things considered, more research is needed to validate the intended benefits of stevia. Moreover, it is also imperative to assess the actual effects of low-calorie diets on obesity in more detail. We would also advise our readers to not add stevia to their diet without prior consultation from certified physicians.

What We Learned About the Brain this Year

Colorful illustration of the brain — Photo: iStock

The human brain, the single most important organ in the body distinguishes itself from all other living species. The way the brain works is a wonder and has not been fully understood by scientists to this day. Indeed, every achievement of human civilization since the beginning of time has become possible because of this three-lb lump of tissue.

Many neurological studies of cognitive activity have been researched; however, the underlying chemical and non-chemical processes responsible for its functioning are still a mystery. Nevertheless, scientists are gradually digging out new information about the brain, helping us to understand this marvelous biological creation of nature. As 2018 is about to end, it will be apt to discuss some of the notable scientific discoveries and developments that have recently been discovered.

Discovery of a New Brain Cell

The brain is made up of specialized cells called neurons. There are many different types of brain cells and it’s rare that scientists come across an entirely new class of neurons, since the majority of neurological studies are confined to other mammals, particularly rodents.

However, in 2018 a new discovery was made, a neuron called ‘rosehip neuron’. The brain cell is named after the fruit because of its shaggy appearance. Rosehip neurons were discovered in the part of the brain that is responsible for vision and hearing. It has also been found that this cell is not present in other mammals. Scientists have yet to find out the exact function of this new and unique neuron.

The Brain is Not Bacteria-Free

For a long time, scientists used to believe that the brain was naturally a bacteria-free environment. However, a recent study that still needs additional scientific validation has concluded otherwise. It’s also interesting to note that this discovery was unintentional. It occurred when researchers were analyzing the effects of schizophrenia on post-mortal brains. The researchers actually detected unidentified rod-shaped objects during brain imaging. Further inspection revealed that they were actually bacteria.

The bacteria were found near the barricade that separates blood from the brain fluid, which implies that they might be part of the blood-brain barrier. However, nothing conclusive can be said about the role of bacteria in the brain. If the presence of bacteria is further proved, then it will definitely change the course of future neurological studies.

Magnetic Particles have a Purpose in the Brain

Scientists first discovered the presence of magnetic particles in the human brain in 1990. However, their role in the brain is still not clear. Many scientists believe that neuronal magnetic particles have a physiological purpose. On the other hand, some neurologists contested that traces of magnetic particles in the brain were caused by lingering environmental contaminations.

This year, a group of scientists have mapped out the exact location of these particles in the brain. The researchers carried out the mapping of six different brain specimens to conclude that the magnetic particles are concentrated at particular sites in the brain. The patterned presence of magnetic particles at least makes one thing clear i.e. they have a biological purpose in the brain, which is a good thing in this politically charged climate!

It is worth noting that magnetic particles have been discovered in other animals as well. Some experts suggest that the presence of magnetic material in the brain might help animals with navigation. But this is just a hypothetical inference and no concrete evidence currently supports this claim.

Role of Virus in the Construction of Human Consciousness

In a study this year, scientists found out that a viral gene is also responsible for intracellular communication between neurons responsible for the high-order thinking process.

Scientists have named this gene ‘Arc’, which contains genetic information and transmits it from one neuron to the other. It has also been found that the Arc gene mutation usually occurs in people suffering from different neural disorders.

The next objective of researchers is to find out the exact genetic information that is relayed by this viral gene and how it got into the brain in the first place. Scientists will also try to establish the link between the Arc gene alteration and neural disorders.

Stress Physically Affects the Brain

The harmful effects of prolonged stress have been known for a long time. However, a study conducted in October this year suggests that stress also has physical implications for the brain. The researchers analyzed the brain volume of 2,000 healthy adults to find out that those with high cortisol levels have a slightly smaller brain volume.

Cortisol is a hormone released into the bloodstream when a stressful condition materializes and subsequently, puts the body into a fight-or-flight response. Stress is a regular physiological phenomenon that helps humans safely steer out of difficult and harmful situations. However, chronic stress that is highlighted by a constant spike of cortisol is detrimental to human health.

The brain has Noise Filters

You might have noticed that we don’t hear each and every footstep of ours. Research conducted on mice this year suggests that the brain develops its own filter to cancel out what it perceives as noise. It has been found that after the brain has discerned something as noise, the motor neurons (responsible for movement) direct auditory neurons (responsible for hearing) to block their own signals. Even though the study was conducted on mice, scientists believe that the same can be said for the human brain too.

So, scientists keep on discovering new things, but the above discussion shows that a lot of it has yet to be found, especially regarding the underlying functioning of the brain. The discovery of new neurons also implies that we still don’t know the entire anatomy of our brains.

What’s all the Buzz about Medical Cannabis? Here’s What You Need to Know

By now, you must have heard about medical cannabis and the ongoing controversy about whether it should be used or not.

Alternatively called medical marijuana, it refers to the use of the cannabis plant, its extract, or some of its chemicals to treat various health conditions.

While cannabis is widely used for a variety of medical purposes and there has been an outcry for its legalization in many parts of the world, it is still considered a Schedule I drug by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

So far, the FDA has only approved cannabis use for treating two rare types of epilepsy – Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. This makes marijuana still one of the most widely used illegal drugs.

A Brief History of Medical Cannabis

The use of cannabis, for both recreational and medical purposes, can be traced back to at least 4,000 years. Researchers have found that it was being used for medicinal purposes long before the emergence of modern medical science.

There is also evidence that cannabis was popular as a medicinal drug in 19th century Europe and the United States. It was widely used for treating health issues like birth labor, migraine, insomnia, throat infection, and menstrual cramps. The trend continued until the drug was declared it illegal in the early 20th century. This happened mainly due to the difficulties in determining the correct dose of the drug for different patients, which increased the likelihood of developing dependence and drug abuse.

The use of medical marijuana resurfaced in the late 20th and early 21st century. This time, it gained much more popularity. Researchers and scientists considered it as a potential alternative drug for treating diseases that traditional medications had failed to treat.

Since then, numerous scientific research studies have been conducted all over the world to investigate the beneficial properties of cannabis. There have been experiments to figure out different pharmaceutical preparations of the drug, and many clinical studies and trials have been conducted to study the effects of marijuana on humans.

Since the research is still considered to be in the early stages and there is some evidence that the drug may cause some negative effects, it has been established that it should be used only when and as prescribed. Also, it should only be used in a form of approved cannabinoid-based medicines in order to benefit from its therapeutic properties.

While cannabis has been used for both recreational and medical purposes since ancient times, the drug did not gain legal status in any part of the world until 2013.

Why Medical Marijuana Has Been All The Rage Lately?

Following are the major reasons for the demands of the legalization of cannabis in many parts of the world:

- Inefficacy of many first-line medications

- Severe side-effects of many traditional medications

- The inability of scientists to find cures and treatments for many diseases

Evidence, both scientific and anecdotal, regarding the effectiveness of marijuana for providing relief from many diseases.

Cannabidiol – The Magical Compound in Cannabis

The Cannabis plant contains more than a hundred different chemical compounds, called Cannabinoids. They have the ability to interact with the naturally occurring cannabinoid receptors in the human brain. The level of each cannabinoid and the combination of different cannabinoids give each strain of cannabis plant its unique properties.

Cannabidiol (CBD), the second most common cannabinoid molecule found in the cannabis plant, known to provide relief from various illnesses. CBD is also considered safe for consumption because it is non-intoxicating and does not make you feel high.

Many studies and clinical trials have been conducted to investigate the health benefits of CBD, its behavioral and psychological effects, and pharmacological interactions. But, all the studies that have so far been performed are either in-vitro studies or conducted on animals. Due to this reason, large-scale clinical application of CBD-based drugs, and cannabis, in general, has not been achieved yet.

While there are some issues in the clinical application of drug-based medicines, researchers have stated that CBD can bring a revolution in the pharmaceutical industry.

Health Issues that Cannabis Has Been Found to be Helpful

Cannabinoids based medications have been found to be helpful in the treatment and management of many health issues. Some of these are:

Epilepsy – CBD (Cannabidiol) and CBDV (Cannabidivarin), two of the cannabinoids in the marijuana plant, are found to be effective in managing symptoms of epilepsy.

According to the researchers, cannabinoids have shown anti-convulsive properties during lab studies. Also, as mentioned earlier, FDA has also approved the use of medical cannabis for two forms of epilepsy.

Chronic Pain – Cannabis has been used as an effective alternative treatment for different types of chronic pain, such as neuropathic pain, post-operative pain, and pain due to diseases like fibromyalgia, Multiple Sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer. A survey conducted in California showed that more than 90% of the participants, suffering from chronic pain, cancer, and migraine, experienced pain relief when treated with medical cannabis.

Some other diseases medical cannabis has been found to be helpful for are:

- Gastrointestinal issues, such as Crohn’s disease

- Inflammatory Bowel Disease

- Brain diseases, such as depression, Alzheimer’s, PTSD, and Multiple Sclerosis

- Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

- Skin diseases, like Eczema and Psoriasis

- Chronic pain and inflammation

- Arthritis

- Anxiety

- - Glaucoma
- AIDS/ HIV (it helps to manage symptoms, such as loss of appetite, sleeplessness, neuropathic pain and mood).

Alexander Strokes, a researcher from Hawaii, has found that a compound derived from cannabis can help treat heart disease. According to him, it activates a brain receptor that encourages the heart to work harder to pump blood. He also secured a patent for this compound, in early 2018.

According to Marcel Bonn-Miller, substance abuse specialist at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania:

“The greatest amount of evidence for the therapeutic effects of cannabis relate to its ability to reduce chronic pain, nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, and muscle spasms due to Multiple Sclerosis.”

Conclusion

There is much scientific and anecdotal evidence with regard to the effectiveness of marijuana in providing symptomatic relief and an alternative treatment option for various health conditions. However, there is contradictory evidence as well. The drug can have negative effects, can cause addiction, and may increase the risks for developing some diseases, not to mention the proven side effect of distance distortion.

Due to these contrasting views, cannabis is still not considered a first-line treatment by medical practitioners. Wherever the drug is being prescribed, it is currently being used as an alternative medicine to treat diseases for which there are no standard treatments available.

With the contrasting pieces of evidence on one hand and much public demand for legalization on the other, including its use as a recreational drug, legislators are having a hard time deciding its official status. Indeed, the County of Health Officials of New York (among many others) is very concerned about its use, especially as a recreational drug.

We will continue to keep you up to date about the cannabis issue. Stay tuned for our ongoing series on the medical, political and financial reactions of using marijuana both medically and recreationally in this current climate of the cannabis controversy.

Benefits of the 16:8 Diet Plan

Medical Advisory

It should be kept in mind that every diet plan entails different benefits and side effects for each individual; therefore, we are not suggesting that you do this diet on your own.

When it comes to fasting, there are a variety of factors that need to be addressed – your current health for one, as well as how it will affect your lifestyle.

Additionally, other factors must be addressed; such as, whether should you be taking any other supplements or how to manage your exercise routine while on this diet. There are nutritional and medical organizations that will guide you through this process and it is highly recommended that you work with them.

But most importantly, speak to your medical professional if you are interested in taking on the 16:8 diet plan.

With all its benefits and conveniences, the contemporary lifestyle has also brought many problems and unwanted after-effects in our lives. Our stagnant physical routine and unhealthy dietary habits have caused many medical conditions to become prevalent. From hypertension to obesity and uncontrolled diabetes, many existing physical ailments and complications can be attributed to unwholesome foods and a poor dietary routine.

But the bad effects of unhealthy dietary behavior don’t just stop at damaging our physical health. Unhealthy foods and untimely eating routines also have a detrimental effect on our mental health. Various scientific studies have proved that major depressive orders and stress are also becoming rampant due to bad dietary habits.

To deal with all those physical and mental health issues, nutritionists and dietary physicians are relentlessly working on different regimens. Whether it’s a Keto diet plan, Paleo eating plan, or one of those group weight plans, people now have a variety of healthy dietary regimens to choose from. Intermittent fasting is an extension of these efforts.

Scale with measuring tape on it — Photo by Pixabay

Eat What You Want, Then Stop

There are many ways to implement intermittent fasting in your daily routine and much has been written about it. For instance, one popular fasting diet plan is called 16:8. This plan entails fasting for 16 hours a day and eating is permitted for the remaining eight hours. One of the reasons for the popularity of this 16:8 diet routine is that it doesn’t put too many restrictions on food selection. People following the 16:8 diet plans can eat almost anything during the cycle of eating since it is the period when you are not eating that is important.

Besides allowing people to eat anything they want, the 16:8 diet has also become all the rage because of its many benefits for physical and mental health. It works like this: When you are not eating, the digestive activity in your body slows down and if you have not eaten for a long period, say 8 – 12 hours, the digestive process is virtually not active at all; subsequently, giving your body the ability to do other things that can effectively increase your health.

Let’s delve into some of the benefits that a 16:8 dietary plan can do.

Can Help in Losing Weight

The majority of the population takes up any diet plan or routine for the sake of weight loss. And a 16:8 diet routine tremendously helps in shedding those extra pounds. This intermittent fasting routine instigates twofold action that results in weight loss.

Limit the Number of Calories

Excessive daily calorie intake is the leading reason for an ongoing epidemic of obesity in the developed world. The 16:8 diet routine limits the number of meals by tightening the window of eating. A person can’t have more than two meals in the eight-hour window until of course he/she is overcompensating for the fasting time by eating more than usual. So, fewer meals mean fewer calories throughout the day.

Rev Up the Metabolic Rate

An actively working metabolism is a sign of a healthy body. Faster metabolic rate quickly burns the calories thus leaving very few of them to get deposited in the body. It has been proven that fasting can help in ramping up the metabolic rate by 3.6 to 14 percent.

On one hand, a 16:8 diet routine helps in reducing your daily calorie intake value. On the other hand, it catalyzes metabolic rates resulting in an efficient calorie-burning regimen. Both these phenomena eventually result in weight loss. A study has revealed that intermittent fasting and calorie restriction can result in a weight loss of 3 to 8 percent in a period of 3-24 weeks.

Important note:

Since the 16:8 diet routine doesn’t bar people from any particular food item, people who are shedding weight don’t face the issue of muscle loss, which is an ongoing drawback of several diet plans. Apart from losing weight, people can experience some other benefits by taking up the 16:8 diet routine.

Helps in Reducing Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress is a relatively newer concept for many. It entails the formation of free radicals in the body and their consequent reaction with healthy DNA and proteins to damage them. Medical scientists believe that oxidative stress is one of the underlying causes of many chronic diseases. It also amplifies the process of aging. Medical research substantiates that undergoing long periods without eating anything can increase the body’s natural resistance against oxidative stress.

16:8 Diet is Good for Type 2 Diabetes Patients

Type 2 Diabetes has become a prevailing worldwide disease in recent years. It mainly involves higher blood sugar levels due to ineffective insulin production in the body. Type 2 Diabetes entails wide-ranging complications. Its long-term implications can result in affecting the eyes, renal function, and the nervous system. Research has proven that intermittent fasting acts against insulin resistance, which consequently helps in lowering the glucose level in the blood.

Counterbalance Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors

Cardiovascular complications are killing more Americans than any other disease. According to statistics furnished by the CDC, heart diseases kill more than 600,000 people in the country every year. People become susceptible to cardiovascular diseases as the risk factors associated with them become more pronounced.

Intermittent fasting through the 16:8 diet plan has been studied to have a positive effect on these risk factors. For instance, it helps in regulating the blood pressure. It also lowers the levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood and helps in lowering the blood sugar levels too.

16:8 Diet and Brain Health

Things that are good for our physical health are usually good for our mental health too. The same goes for the 16:8 diet. For example, the reduction of oxidative stress, tempered inflammatory response of the body, and regulated blood sugar levels all have a positive impact on brain health and functionality.

Moreover, research on the mammalian subject reveals that intermittent fasting might help instigate the growth of new neurons. It has been studied that intermittent fasting might improve the levels of the brain-derived Neurotrophic factor (BDNF). It is a brain hormone whose deficiency is attributed to major depressive disorders.

The study by the US National Library of Medicine states: “Previous studies have shown that dietary restriction (DR) can suppress age-related deficits [abnormalities] in learning and memory, and can increase resistance of neurons to degeneration in experimental models of neurodegenerative disorders.”; meaning, abstention from eating (‘dietary restrictions’) has a positive effect on learning and decreases neural decay (‘resistance of neurons to degeneration’).

Medical Advisory

It should be kept in mind that every diet plan entails different benefits and side effects for each individual; therefore, we are not suggesting that you do this diet on your own.

When it comes to fasting, there are a variety of factors that need to be addressed – your current health for one, as well as how it will affect your lifestyle.

But most importantly, speak to your medical professional if you are interested in taking on the 16:8 diet plan.

Everything You Need to Know About Choline

basket of eggs — Photo by BDS – yayimages.com

People love eating eggs because they are delicious, easy to cook, and offer plenty of nutritional benefits. Packed with protein, healthy fats, selenium, vitamin D, and a variety of other minerals and vitamins, eggs are an essential part of a healthy, balanced diet.

There is, however, one nutrient that eggs contain that people do not know a lot about – choline. Note to be confused with chlorine, choline is a B vitamin, which also happens to be an essential nutrient. Choline is a nutrient that plays an important role in the biological processes of the human body. It has an important part to play when it comes to the signaling between cells and nerves, transportation of cholesterol in the body, and even energy metabolism.

Acetylcholine is a chemical produced by the brain, which is part of the processes involved with our memory. This vital chemical compound cannot be made without the intake of choline. Choline also contributes to the production of sphingomyelin and phosphatidylcholine – both of which are vital parts of cell membranes.

The human body can produce choline naturally but only in small amounts. To furnish healthy levels of choline, it is necessary to add nutrients to your diet that contain this essential element. Choline can be found in several different foods and if there is a serious deficiency, you can take choline supplements that are available in retail markets.

Health Benefits of Choline

There are several benefits that you can reap by having this nutrient as a part of your dietary intake. Here is a look at some of the most prominent ones.

Better Liver Health

If the human body does not get enough choline, it can contribute to liver issues. According to a study published by the American Journal of Nutrition in 2007, you need a healthy intake of choline to help your liver function properly.

This study saw almost 60 adults given a diet which contained 550 mg of choline for 10 days. After that, the sample of adults being tested was fed a diet that contained less than 50 mg of choline for up to 42 days. There was a massive difference in how things turned out. Almost half of the women who had not yet undergone menopause developed muscle damage and a fatty liver problem. Similarly, 80 percent of the women who had undergone menopause developed fatty livers and muscle problems. Furthermore, 77 percent of the male demographic in the sample developed similar issues with their livers during the second phase of the test.

Cognitive Function

An observational study suggested that choline played a significant role in the cognitive functioning of men and women. This proves that choline is necessary for the normal development of the human brain and the neural pathways, which are responsible for enhancing memory. The cognitive performance of participants who had lower levels of choline was poor compared to the participants who had proper levels of choline in their systems. Their performance was measured through their speed of perception, global cognition, sensorimotor speed, and executive function.

Choline and Pregnancy

Building on the necessity of choline for the healthy development of cognitive brain functions, a report was published by the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. The report stated that increased consumption of foods containing high levels of choline contributed to the development of the brain in the fetus of pregnant women. Studies conducted on animals have shown that if they consume a high choline-based diet in the first year after their birth, they have enhanced memory skills throughout their lives.

How Can You Detect Choline Deficiency?

A person may experience several health issues due to choline deficiency. These include memory problems, muscle damage, insomnia, and excessive fatigue. If an individual has a problem of severe choline deficiency, they might experience nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and significant liver damage.

What Are The Sources of Choline?

Several foods are rich in choline content. Eggs, beef liver, and soybeans are some of the choline-rich foods. Choline can also be found in good quantity in some other foods like mushrooms, potatoes, chicken, dairy products, fish, nuts, seeds, and whole grain foods.

Here is a look at the example of foods containing choline and the quantity of choline in them:

- Wheat germ: 51 mg of choline per ounce
- Broccoli: 31 mg of choline per every half cup
- Chicken breast: 72 mg of choline per 3 ounces
- Eggs: 147 mg of choline for every large egg
- Beef liver: 356 mg of choline per 3 ounces (the highest amount)

Precautions When It Comes to Choline

While choline is an essential part of our diet, there are some considerations that you should keep in mind when consuming it. If taken in high dosage, choline can cause certain adverse effects, including body odor, nausea, vomiting, sweating, low blood pressure, salivation, and liver damage.

According to a study, the deficiency of choline can increase the levels of certain amino acids in the body which are linked to heart disease. This is why having a good intake of this nutrient has also been linked to healthier hearts.

It is important to take notice of the fact that choline supplements should never be solely relied on for the intake of choline. It can cause health concerns. It is always better to rely on regular dietary items to fulfill your choline needs.

Recommended Intake of Choline

While it has still not been established exactly how much choline a person should take in a single day, there are certain guidelines about the recommended intake. The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine recommends that the proper intake of choline per day for men is at 550 mg. For women, the recommended choline intake should be at 425 mg per day.

Final Thoughts

A lot of people can meet their daily needs for the intake of choline through their regular diet without having to take any extra precautions for it. Of course, there are some cases where a person is unable to fulfill their basic daily requirement of choline intake. If you are worried about the possibility of choline deficiency, it is recommended that you do not start taking supplements of choline on your own.

It is best to go to a certified dietician or your physician to share your concerns about the matter so that if you do need to take supplements, you can get the best possible dosage based on expert opinion.

How Important is Your Mental Health to You?

”Woman holding hands with others — Photo by Wavebreakmedia – yayimages.com

The mental health of a person plays a major role in the overall health of an individual since in today’s world, everything moves at a faster pace, which can lead to burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. While a lot of attention wasn’t given to it previously, it has become evident that one’s mental health should be addressed properly, and in some cases, the proper authorities notified if the person appears to be a threat to him/herself or someone else. So let’s take a closer look at how you can maintain a healthy mind and body in this fast-paced, overwhelming environment that we live in today.

First, we must be aware of how easily the growing surroundings around us can make us flustered. Case in point: being ‘busy’ in today’s social circles is considered to be an honorable trait. While it is admirable and healthy to be active, especially in your senior years, it can lead to a decline in your mental stability if you do too much at once. This can lead to a feeling of overwhelmed and subsequent stress, depress or something worse. Employee burnout has quickly become one of the biggest challenges that businesses have experienced. It’s been termed as the new normal because it occurs so frequently.

Upset woman in front of computer — It doesn’t have to be this way

This has led to the World Health Organization declaring in 2018 that depression is a global crisis with over 300 million people suffering from it. This number consists of people from all age groups, races, socio-economic backgrounds, and more. Around 800,000 deaths per year are attributed to depression. Despite this growing awareness, around 10% of people seek therapy or medication. The number of people with undocumented mental conditions is considered double the number of registered cases.

Even if you aren’t experiencing a mental health problem, it is a good idea to actively self-evaluate your mind to ensure that you are in a state of wellbeing. Your mental health is connected with your sense of self and if it didn’t play an important role in your life previously, it should now.

Why Should it be Important?

Mental health doesn’t just contribute to improving your sense of wellness, it also ensures that you are able to go about your life without worries or problems. The following are some benefits that you can get when you pay attention to your mental health and put it first:

Better Productivity

A healthy mind can allow you to be more productive in everything you do. Self-doubt, anxiety, and stress are physically draining and can lead to fatigue, illness, and depression. While the performance at your job is important, by looking after your mind, you can actually boost your productivity. It can also cut down on your absenteeism and help you be more focused on your work. So be sure to take breaks and avoid being chained to your desk.

Improved Interpersonal Relationships

Happy people at a computer — Photo by Fox from Pexels

Interpersonal relationships are built on emotions and if you’re channeling negative energy, your relationships are also going to reflect this factor. You might have shallow relationships or ones that are toxic for all involved.

Take a moment to step back, breathe and evaluate your mental condition. Invest in self-caring activities that allow you to curb your negative, unhealthy behavior or your thinking patterns. By actively monitoring them, you can improve your mindset and in turn, improve your interpersonal relationships.

More Successful

In today’s world, many people define success as material possessions. On the other hand, a person’s definition of success can differ. If giving into the rat race is causing you to feel depressed or anxious, take a step back.

Finding success in something that you are passionate about is a better course of action and when you are mentally healthy, you will understand this aspect more. It will help you come to a decision more easily and allow you to pick a route that you will be more successful at. Thinking with a clear head will play a major role in defining your success.

Better Health

Stress and depression are silent killers that not only affect your mind but also contribute to physical health problems. According to the World Health Organization, depression is one of the leading contributors to disability and physical problems that can severely mar a person’s quality of life.

A study conducted in 2012 by the Health Services Research highlighted how people with mental health problems were more likely to seek treatment if it had impacted their health. The correlation between the two conditions might not seem significant, but subjects who received treatment noted that their physical health improved as their mental health got better.

How to Put it First

A major issue is that many people don’t always consider putting their mental health first and usually have unhealthy habits that are difficult to let go of. For this reason, they’re either hesitant or don’t know where to turn to when looking to improve it. The following are a few pointers that can help you improve their mental health.

Seeking Professional Help

Couple talking to a medical professional — Unsplash-080620-tim-gouw-bwki71ap-y8

If you feel like it, seek professional help. The stigma associated with going to a therapist or a psychologist is why some people have an undiagnosed mental condition. Even if you don’t have a mental illness, going to a therapist is still helpful for you. They can assist you, particularly if you are experiencing burnout and need someone to talk to, and don’t be afraid to go. You’ll be surprised how many doctors and police visit a psychiatrist every week.

Setting Boundaries

One of the major ways in which someone might seek acceptance from others is by agreeing to what they say. Learn to say no. People are inherently polite and want to please but don’t let this come at a cost to you. If something makes you uncomfortable, if it is unreasonable or if you are just unable to do it, just say no or at least say that you will think about it and contact them later.

Learn How to Chill!

One gentleman told us something that everyone should do. He said when things appear overwhelming, just sit back and confront each issue step by step in contrast to all at once. Write the issues down on paper. Then look at each one and separately and calmly ask yourself ‘how can I fix this issue?’ It may not be one simple fix but may require a number of steps. Either way, organize it so that you have a clear understanding of how to proceed with each step. Once these issues are clearly laid out in front of you, you will feel better on how to approach them, which will help reduce your anxiety and consequently you’re the whole outlook on the situation and yourself. It’s a simple physiological chain reaction and it works!

Put Yourself First

Start putting yourself first. Many people will put everything else first except themselves. From the demands of the job to the wants and needs of their parents, their siblings, their pets, and more, they’re giving so much to others that there is nothing left for themselves. For once, do things that you like and that is better for your mental health. Always remember that putting yourself first is not selfish, even if it might feel like it at the start.

Remember, a strong mind leads to a strong body. By actively taking measures to improve your mental health, you can make a significant difference in your life and the lives of others around you.