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The charming diet - South Beach Diet!

This is one of the recent diet plans promoted by cardiologist Arthur Agatston, in the year 2003. This diet has its origins from the glamorous city of Miami, thus also called as modified low-carbohydrate diet. It emphasizes eating high-fiber, low-glycemic carbohydrates, unsaturated fats, and lean protein, and high-fiber foods making the diet nutrient dense. Though it is a low-carbohydrate diet but the carbohydrate content is not as low as typical low-carbohydrate diet. At least 140 grams of carbohydrate is allowed for consumption unlike typical low-carbohydrate diet allowing up to 100 grams. The foods with low glycemic index are more likely to be included than the high glycemic index foods. Evidences have shown that high glycemic foods tend to increase your blood sugar faster, higher and longer than do foods with a lower index, moreover high blood sugar boosts the appetite, thus predisposing to over-eating, obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The South Beach Diet plan can be followed in a step-wise pattern. It has three phases: The first phase is designed to reduce the cravings of high sugar and refined starched foods, which kick starts the weight loss. It is followed by a phase wherein whole-grain foods are added to achieve the target weight. The final phase includes maintenance phase which includes lifestyle modifications. This is one such diet which can be followed through out. As there is no calorie count or prohibited foods!!    -Koya Satyasri

The Weight Watchers Diet!

This is one of the newbie diets been extensively followed. The weight watchers diet is more of a lifestyle modification rather than just a diet plan. This diet does not put constrains on what to eat and what not to eat, rather scores them with points. This is better referred as health program than just a diet, which includes, physical activity, refraining from smoking, weed and alcohol. As already mentioned, no food is forbidden, we need not worry too much about what to eat and what not to eat, we can make up the plan with bits and pieces we find in our kitchen. Each food is graded with SmartPoint Value. The nutritious foods high in proteins, i.e. the food that fill us are scored low than those with high saturated and sugars as the junk! Though following the diet is a mammoth task, but setting up the SmartPoint Value goals based on the body type, weight and physical activity is a onetime mammoth task. Weight Watchers is good for anyone. As its focuses on nutritious, low-calorie foods make a great diet plan for people with high blood pressure or cholesterol, diabetes, and even heart disease Weight Watchers is one of the most well-researched weight loss programs available. Thus by following these diet you are very likely to shed good amounts of extra baggage you might be carrying!   -Koya Satyasri

The DASH Diet!!

  DASH stands for Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension, it is a dietary approach to reduce or treat hypertension. The diet comprises of food rich in potassium, calcium and magnesium while low in sodium content which checks the progression of hypertension. DASH Diet offers health benefits besides just lowering blood pressure. The DASH diet is also in line with dietary recommendations to prevent osteoporosis, cancer, heart disease, stroke, kidney stones and diabetes.   Originally this diet plan was designed for weight and it comprised of refined grains and starchy foods. Later on it has been modified with the addition of fruits and vegetables, low-fat and nonfat dairy, along with nuts, beans, and seeds.   The DASH Diets have been on two types based on sodium levels; traditionally DASH diet includes vegetables, fruits and low-fat dairy foods and moderate amounts of whole grains, fish, poultry and nuts.   The Standard DASH Diet – The diet that allows the consumption of 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day   Low Sodium DASH Diet – This diet allows consumption of sodium up to 1,500milligrmas per day.   A strict DASH Diet is known to reduce the blood pressure by eight to fourteen points. These have been successful mainly because of the good amount of potassium, magnesium and calcium, low sodium which all lower the blood pressure. In addition if we make some lifestyle modifications like, weight loss, exercise, smoking cessation, and moderation of alcohol intake, will give a better control over blood pressure. - Koya Satyasri

The well known Vegetarian Diet!!

The vegetarian diet is most common and most easiest diet to follow especially for the Asian Countries. The vegetarian diet usually excludes any form of meat. However, there are different types of vegetarians; Lacto - vegetarian these are which exclude meat but include dairy products, Ovo - vegetarian diet this include eggs while excluding meat, Lacto ovo - vegetarian these include both eggs and dairy products. Other types of diet the inclusions of meat like, Pescatarians they are allowed the consumption of fish meat, while the other being Pollotarian diet which include poultry. Yet another type is Flexitarians, they consume meat in small quantities or occasionally. The driving force to adopt a vegetarian diet plan might be: On ethical grounds over slaughtering of animals, to Promote a healthy lifestyle to lower the risk of chronic diseases like hypertension, obesity, coronary heart disease and even cancers. The advantages of following a vegetarian diet are: 1. These diets are low in saturated fats,thus preventing the rise of cholesterol especially LDL, while exceptions being coconut and palm kernel oils. 2. High fiber content maintains good functioning of the gut and keeps constipation at bay. 3. The diet which are high in protein and fiber are likely to induce e satiety early, thus cutting down the portion sizes and aiding in weight loss. While there are some disadvantages too, certain nutrients are more to be easily absorbed  and utilized from the animal sources rather than plant sources. The vegetarians are like to suffer deficiencies of B 12, iron and omega-3 fatty acids. And minute deficiencies of vitamin D, calcium and zinc. Some vegetarians rely heavily on the processed food, which are high on calories, sugars, fats and sodium, which predispose to the chronis illnesses. In any diet plan eating good amount of fruits and vegetables is very essential to balance the nutrient scales!!   - Koya Satyasri

The Vegan Diet

  The vegan diet often confused with the Vegetarian diet but both of them quite different from each other. Turning a vegan has to do more with animal rights , environmental issues rather than the health prospect. Being vegan is more of a lifestyle choice and a philosophy than a diet. A vegan does not eat anything that is of animal origin. Vegans will not use animal based products for clothing, or any other purpose.   This diet comprises of food that completely of plant origin, it does not include eggs, diary or even honey. The advantages of vegan are more likely to have a positive effect over animals and environment. While the health benefits include reducing the  risk of developing cancer, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, heart disease, and a number of other illnesses and conditions. Studies have also revealed that vegan diet can reduce the incidence of Prostate cancer and other urological conditions might even be reversed to an extent. Since these diets are low in saturated fat they also minimize or completely eliminate the genetic propensity of people to type 2 Diabetes and cardio-vascular disease.   Some difficulties faced during vegan diet, Vitamin B12 is one nutrient whose source are mostly and only of animal origin, vegan are prone to B12 deficiency, manifesting as loss of appetite and loss of weight. To some extent even iron deficiency can be seen in vegan as animal food contains non-haeme iron which is not easily absorbable while the animal foods have haeme iron which is easily absorbed. Adding other sources of proteins like lentils, soybeans and quinoa, to balance the need of protein is very essential. Reading the food labels is must for all the vegans!   It is a diet followed for spiritual calmness and as a step towards a peace loving world, while maintaining a health!! -- Koya Satyasri   

Reduce Inflammation with Zone Diet

The zone diet was introduced and promoted by Dr. Barry Sears, to counter-attack the diet induced inflammation. The Zone Diet will help you shed excess pounds, dramatically reduce your risk of chronic disease, and improve your mental and physical performance while living a longer more fulfilling life. Though it is not a mainstream weight loss diet plan, it is considerable good at this but best at reducing inflammation. This diet emphasizes on the fact that genetic make-up cannot be altered but their expression can be regulated, thus maintaining a healthy status. The diet plan includes: 1 part of fats which includes monounsaturated fats like, olive oil, avocados or almonds; 2 parts of low fat proteins like, fish, lean meat like chicken, lean beef or egg whites. And 3 parts of carbohydrates add in colorful vegetable and some fruits, but avoid consumption of high sugar fruits like bananas, grapes, carrots and raisins, also highly starchy foods like potatoes and corn. The advantages of this diet plan are: This diet is very big on helping you to control your insulin and the rate at which carbohydrates are used by the body, without restricting the carbohydrate intake much, good one for Diabetic persons too In this diet your tend to reduce the portion size as, protein and fats both induce satiety,losing excess body fat at fastest possible rate. Maintaining wellness for long durations, betterment of performance and faster thinking. Slows down the rate of ageing None of the diet plans are foolproof, this too has some drawbacks: It is burdensome to planning and count the calories and balance the quantities. As the carbohydrate content is about 60% considerably less than other diet plan thus reducing the endurance of athletes and those who indulge in high intensity workouts. Lastly is quite cumbersome to keep up with the diet as we require to take small meals at regular intervals which may not easy to follow! It is good plan for those are willing to put in the effort, if you are person on the go then it might not be a good choice!   -Koya Satyasri

Food, our driving force!

  The type, quantity and the time of food intake plays a pivot role in the maintenance of our health. We must bear in mind that food we eat must be loaded with nutrients that aid in the growth, development and maintaining bodily functions. Quantity and quality too plays an important role, too much food can make us obese and too little food can leave us undernourished.   It is known fact that the minimal energy demand is determined by the Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). The basal metabolic rate is higher all along daylight hours. The factors affecting our BMR are: age, sex, body and environmental temperatures, quantity and quality of food, activity level, oxygen availability, time of the day and hormonal balance. Since we have a good BMR during the day hours it is wise to take good quality and quantity of food, while limiting the high calorie food once the sun dips down!   Thyroid hormones regulate the cellular metabolism thus affecting the BMR, in case of hyperthyroidism the metabolism is boosted up, while in case of hypothyroidism the metabolism drops and more likely to gain weight as most of the food we hog is converted into fat and deposited instead of being utilized for our energy demands of the body!   So maintain the good quality and quantity, time and good physical activity!! Take Care!! -Koya Satyasri

Know your Diseases!

At some point of time all of us fall prey to diseases. According to the medical terminology most of the diseases are classified as: Acute, Chronic and Acute on Chronic.  Acute Disease, indicate that the disease is at peak of its activity. An acute disease is of abrupt onset, lasting for a short duration and having distinct symptoms. These diseases require urgent specialist management. Some of these acute conditions can be life threatening and can be fatal if not attended within 48 hours. Acute on Chronic, indicates an acute episode of a long-standing disease. It is flare up of the underlying disease. These are usually triggered by infections, stress and allergic reaction to food or medications. The management is similar to that of the acute diseases, it is emergency specialist care, until the episode vanes off, and then a prolonged management is done similar to chronic diseases. Chronic disease, are the disease that last for longer duration for about 3months or more. Chronic diseases usually do not subside by themselves nor cured by medication, nor prevented by vaccinations. The incidence of these chronic diseases increases with age. Major causes of chronic disease are the unhealthy and unsafe lifestyles. The leading chronic diseases in developed countries include arthritis, cardiovascular disease such as heart attacks and stroke, cancer such as breast and colon cancer, diabetes, epilepsy and seizures, obesity, and oral health problems.                So next time we walk out of the clinic we know the magnitude of the health issue we dealing with! Take Care!!      -Koya Satyasri

Contagious Confectionaries!

Confectionaries include all fancy foods that tickle our sweet-tooth. Be it be donuts, cream rolls, pastries, chocolates and many more. We are guilty of indulging in these sugaries at least once! These are full of refined sugar, refined flour and ingredients which harm us more than benefitting us. These foods are high on calories and low on nutrients and fiber-content. The ill-effects of Sugar coated delicacies are: Refined sugar forms a coat over our teeth and making them prone to decay and cavities It also alters our sleep cycle, thus making us night-watching owls! Also leads to many stress disorders, depressions, mania and anxiety. Refined flour and sugar tend to pass out of our system fast thus arising the sense of hunger within short intervals of time, So we tend to have many high calorie meals, loading us with those extra pounds. Obesity yet another health menace of the this century, this can lead to many issues like Heart strokes, Diabetes Mellitus and Hormonal imbalances We are fortunate enough to have a good number of sweet substitutes, like fruit sugars – fructose and galactose and dry fruits can very well add sweetness to food!    -Koya Satyasri

Shield your Eyes From the Heat!

  During summer eyes not only have to deal with heat but also with dry and dusty winds. Eyes are one such organs that are easily prone to damage by heat and are least noticed.   Damage to eyes is easily missed upon since they are minimal and non-specific. The symptoms range from simple drying up, itching, and excessive tearing to red inflamed eye.   The Protective measures to be taken are:   * Use good quality Sunglasses which can efficiently block the UVA and UVB rays, they not shield our eyes but also eyelids. Opt for close-fitting one for near complete protection.   * If you are using lenses make sure they are well matched for your sight requirements and opt for gray ones Avoid going out in warm and windy weather. Keep out from the smoking zones, as smoke tends to irritate and rob the eyes off their moist.   * Regular Blinking is yet another simple measure, a minimum of 10 times per minute. Sleep for good 6 to 8 hours.   * Drink ample amounts of water is very essential for maintaining good eye care. Intake of omega-3 fatty acids found in flax seeds, nuts and fish, these foods reduce the inflammation.   So next time you walk out from your house don’t forget your Goggles!!   --Koya Satyasri

Beware of Binge Eating!

  At some of time we all are guilty of Binging, all thanks to the roaring social life. Well binging is overindulgence of food, be it be snacks or confectionaries.   This phenomenon is very much common in person undergoing any kind of mental turbulence. Also seen in some youngsters who starve themselves, and relentlessly attack the platter. Major affects of Binging are:   * It disturbs the circadian cycle of the body. Disturbed sleep, anxiety and depression are the most common visible outcomes.   * Obviously, putting on extra pounds. As most often we tend to binge on desserts, which are high on calories!   * Occasional binging alters the gastric activity, thus inviting problems like heartburns, reflux gastritis   * Sugar binging over a period of time predisposes to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Coronary Arterial diseases and Heart strokes.   Most important rule to be followed while tackling Binging is not to multi-task while eating. Though, it is not that easy to free ourselves from the clutches of binging, nevertheless it possible with balanced and well scheduled diet, exercise which sweats you out and tension-free life, these are the key! -Koya Satyasri

The Fiery Red Eye!

The red eye is one such syndrome that may affect one or both the eye, the eye appears scarily red due to the dilation of the blood vessels caused by infection or irritation. The bloodshot eyes, these include subconjunctival hemorrhage i.e. breakdown of one more blood vessel in the sclera, blepharitis  it is the inflamed eyelids, a red bump over the eyelids called stye. Most common causes of red eye are: allergies, corneal ulceration, foreign body in eye, dry eye syndrome-decreased production of tears, corneal herpetic infection, outwardly turned eyelid-Ectropion, Entropion-inwardly turned eyelid, Blepharitis-inflammation of eyelids, or any infection of eye constituents and sometimes  even because of contact lenses. In short any insult to eye will present as red eye. The treatment varies depending on the cause of the red eye. It may be as simple as cold compresses and rest, refraining from the use of contact lenses if it triggered the red eye, eye drops, antibiotics and rarely surgical intervention. However certain measures it taken can reduce the incidence of red eye: Avoid frequent rubbing of eyes, hand act as vehicles of transport. While using contact lenses, hygiene plays an important role as contacts act as breeding ground for germs if left uncared for. At times it may be due to over-stressing of eye at the computer screen, in such case take a break and follow the 20-20-20 rule: look away from your computer every 20 minutes and gaze at a distant object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Know your allergies and take appropriate medications. Schedule an eye exam every 6 to 8 months for medical guidance.   -Koya Satyasri

Fatty liver – A Disease of the Modern Age!

Fatty liver is the disease of the new age its victims have enormously risen in the past decade, all raising the finger at the lifestyle changes. In a normal healthy individual there is some amount of fat, but it is labeled as fatty liver when more than 10%of the organ weight is due to fat deposits. There are two types of Fatty liver diseases: Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (ALD): As the name suggests it is caused by heavy drinking. The symptoms may show up even due to Hepatitis C, over loading of Iron, obesity or the genes.  Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NALD): It is a tricky entity as there no explanations why some people suffer from fatty liver disease while others do not. The possible cause will be; the genetic factors, overweight, insulin resistance due to which the cells become hostile to the action of the hormone, high blood sugar or hyperglycemia indicating diabetes type 2 and abnormal lipid profile i.e. high cholesterol levels. There is limited understanding of why some fatty livers develop inflammation that progresses to cirrhosis, scarring of the liver. Other rare conditions that cause fatty liver are: Malnutrition, autoimmune diseases, medications and crash diets. The treatment is not well defined; well it is a multi-dimensional approach diet control and physical activity form the main pillars of the treatment. The additives include vaccination against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B, in certain advanced conditions liver transplant is only hope!    - Koya Satyasri

Cooling down Hot Flashes!

Hot flashes are one of the most common and annoying vasomotor symptoms of menopause in women. This are caused due to the disruption of normal regulation of blood vessels resulting production of intense heat and perspiration. The duration and frequency changes from person to person, when they occur during night they are labeled as night sweats. The hot flashes presentation too varies from person to person. They may show up as sudden and intense feeling of heat all over the body. Irregular and rapid heartbeat and pulse and may also present with palpitations. Mild to profuse sweating is most annoying symptom. Flushing is evident in fair-skinned individuals. Rarely sleep disturbances, nausea and dizziness may also show up. During menopause Low levels of estrogen confuse the hypothalamus, causing it to inaccurately sense that the body is overheating. This provokes an internal chain of reactions that women experience as "hot flashes". While other causes listed are: infection, anxiety, obesity, cancer, diabetes and thyroid disorders. Sometimes medications also provoke hot flashes, certain osteoporotic and those fighting breast cancer drugs. By some simple measures the symptoms can be downgraded, keeping away from warm environments considering air conditioners and fans, avoiding stress and anxiety which will quickly raise the temperature, Avoiding hot and spicy foods, keeping cold water or any other beverage handy but avoiding caffeinated drinks, taking a cool shower before bed and using cotton sheet rather than silk and synthetics.   -Koya Satyasri

Cleaning our Gut – Colon Cleansing!

Colon cleansing is one of the ancient methods of detoxification. The natural method of cleansing dates back to ancient Greece. Recently there has been resurgence in the use of teas, enzymes or colon irrigation for detox. The natural way of colon cleansing is done in two ways: Cleansing with powdered or liquid supplements, some of which are taken through mouth or per rectally, which help colon in expelling the impurities along with its contents. Enemas, laxatives-stimulants or non-stimulants, herbal teas, enzymes or magnesium. Cleansing with colon irrigation under the supervision of medical practitioners like colonic hygienists or colon hydro-therapist. This procedure is quite similar to enema, the only difference being the absence of personal effort and discomfort caused by the supplements. This process involves a low pressure pump or gravity based reservoir flushes out several gallons of water through a tube which injects water into the intestines. Then the therapist may give an abdominal massage, following which the water is passed as regular bowel movements flushing out toxins, this process is repeated. Water at different temperature, with enzymes, herbs or probiotics. This natural way of colon cleansing was discovered due to the belief that undigested meat and other foods cause mucus buildup in colon produces toxins which might escape into the circulation and poison the body. Fatigue, headache, weight gain and lethargy are the symptoms of intoxication.   -Koya Satyasri

Fatty liver – A Disease of the Modern Age!

  Fatty liver is the disease of the new age its victims have enormously risen in the past decade, all raising the finger at the lifestyle changes. In a normal healthy individual there is some amount of fat, but it is labeled as fatty liver when more than 10%of the organ weight is due to fat deposits. There are two types of Fatty liver diseases:   Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (ALD): As the name suggests it is caused by heavy drinking. The symptoms may show up even due to Hepatitis C, over loading of Iron, obesity or the genes.   Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NALD): It is a tricky entity as there no explanations why some people suffer from fatty liver disease while others do not. The possible cause will be; the genetic factors, overweight, insulin resistance due to which the cells become hostile to the action of the hormone, high blood sugar or hyperglycemia indicating diabetes type 2 and abnormal lipid profile i.e. high cholesterol levels.   There is limited understanding of why some fatty livers develop inflammation that progresses to cirrhosis, scarring of the liver. Other rare conditions that cause fatty liver are: Malnutrition, autoimmune diseases, medications and crash diets.   The treatment is not well defined; well it is a multi-dimensional approach diet control and physical activity form the main pillars of the treatment. The additives include vaccination against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B, in certain advanced conditions liver transplant is only hope!

చాక్లెట్లు తినకుండా చేసే ఆట

  ‘నీకు ఇష్టమైన ఆహారం ఏమిటి?’ అని ఏ పిల్లవాడినైనా కదిపి చూడండి! ‘చాక్లెట్లు, కేకులు, ఐస్క్రీం, కోక్, పిజ్జా.....’ అంటూ మన మెదడు మొద్దుబారిపోయేలా చాంతాడంత జాబితా చెబుతారు. ఎప్పుడో అడపాదడపా ఇలాంటి చిరుతిళ్ల మీద మనసు పారేసుకోవడం తప్పుకాదు. కానీ ఇవి లేనిదే రోజు గడవని పరిస్థితి వస్తే మాత్రం నష్టపోయేది పిల్లలే! ఆ మాట వారికి చెప్పినా అర్థం చేసుకునే వయసు కాదు.   పిల్లలకీ, చిరుతిళ్లకీ ఉన్న అవినాభావ సంబంధం ఏ ఒక్క దేశానికో పరిమితం కాదు. ఇంగ్లండులోని పిల్లలు కూడా పళ్లు, కూరగాయలు పూర్తిగా పక్కనపెట్టేసి చిరుతిళ్ల మీద పడుతున్నారట. తినాల్సిన మోతాదుకంటే మూడురెట్లు ఎక్కువ తీపిని లాగించేస్తున్నారట. వీటితో ఊబకాయం, డయాబెటిస్ లాంటి సమస్యలు పెరిగిపోతున్నాయి. అందుకనే ఇంగ్లండులోని Exeter అనే విశ్వవిద్యాలయానికి చెందిన సైకాలజిస్టులు దీనికి ఒక పరిష్కారం కనుగొనే ప్రయత్నం చేశారు. ఒక కంప్యూటర్ గేమ్ని రూపొందించి పిల్లల మీద ప్రయోగించారు.   చాక్లెట్లాంటి పదార్థాలు ఒక రకమైన వ్యసనాన్ని కలగచేస్తాయి. అందుకనే వీటిని చూడగానే... మెదడు ‘కొనేసెయ్, తినేసెయ్’ అంటూ రెచ్చగొడుతుంది. స్వీయనియంత్రణ (self- control) కోల్పోతారు. ఒక చిన్న గేమ్ ద్వారా ఈ స్వభావాన్ని మార్చాలనుకున్నారు సైకాలజిస్టులు. ఈ ఆటలో పిల్లవాడికి కంప్యూటర్ స్క్రీన్ మీద ఒకో ఆహారపదార్థమూ కనిపిస్తుంది. అది ఆరోగ్యానికి మంచిదైతే దాని పక్కన సంతోషంగా ఉండే బొమ్మ కనిపిస్తుంది. ఆరోగ్యానికి అంత మంచిది కాకపోతే విషాదంగా ఉన్న మొహం కనిపిస్తుంది. సంతోషకరమైన మొహాన్ని చూసినప్పుడు పిల్లలు బటన్ నొక్కాల్సి ఉంటుంది. ఆట ముగిసిన తర్వాత పిల్లల్ని వాళ్లకి కావల్సిన ఆహారపదార్థాలు కొనుక్కోమన్నారు. ఆశ్చర్యంగా పిల్లలు ఇదివరకులా కాకుండా మంచి ఆహారం వైపు ఎక్కువగా మొగ్గుచూపారట. అంటే వారు ఆడిన ఆట మెదడు మీద తెలియకుండానే సానుకూల ప్రభావం చూపిందన్నమాట. ఇదే మార్పుని పాఠాల ద్వారా, సెమినార్ల ద్వారా తీసుకురావాలంటే బోలెడు ఖర్చు, సమయం వృధా అవుతాయి. కానీ ఏడంటే ఏడు నిమిషాలలో ముగిసిపోయిన ఆటతో వారిలో అనూహ్యమైన మార్పుని సాధించారు పరిశోధకులు.   ఈ ప్రయోగం కోసం 4 నుంచి 11 ఏళ్ల వయసు ఉన్న 200 మంది పిల్లలను ఎంచుకున్నారు. వీరందరి మీదా ఆట ఒకే తీరున ప్రభావం చూపిందట. అంటే ఇలాంటి వీడియో గేమ్స్తో చిన్నా, పెద్దా... ఎవరి మీదైనా సానుకూల ప్రభావం చూపించవచ్చని భావిస్తున్నారు. ఇప్పటికే ఇలాంటి ఆలోచనతో Dr Natalia Lawrence అనే శాస్త్రవేత్త పెద్దలలో చిరుతిళ్ల అలవాట్లు మార్చేందుకు, Food Trainer అనే యాప్ను రూపొందించారు. కావాలంటే గూగుల్ ప్లేలో ఈ యాప్ను డౌన్లోడ్ చేసుకుని చూడండి. - నిర్జర.    

తల్లి ప్రేమతో తెలివితేటలు పెరుగుతాయా!

  తల్లి ప్రేమకి హద్దులు ఉండవు. పోలికలూ దొరకవు. మరి ఆ ప్రభావం ఊరికనే పోతుందా! తల్లి ప్రేమతో మెదడే మారిపోతుందని కొన్ని పరిశోధనలు రుజువుచేస్తున్నాయి. తల్లి ప్రేమని పొందే విద్యార్థులు మిగతావారితో పోలిస్తే చదువులో చురుగ్గా ఉంటారనీ, పరిపక్వతతో వ్యవహరిస్తారనీ తెలుస్తోంది. తల్లి అనురాగాన్ని పొందే పిల్లల మెదడులో కూడా అనూహ్యమైన మార్పులు చోటు చేసుకుంటాయని కూడా కొందరు పరిశోధకులు నిరూపించారు.   పిల్లల మెదడు మీద తల్లి ప్రభావాన్ని తేల్చేందుకు పరిశోధకులు ఓ 92 మంది పిల్లలను ఎన్నుకొన్నారు. వీరంతా కూడా 3 నుంచి 6 ఏళ్ల వయసులోపువారే! ప్రయోగంలో భాగంగా పిల్లవాడిని తల్లితో పాటు ఐదు నిమిషాల పాటు ఒక గదిలో ఉంచారు. ఆ సమయంలో ఏదో ఫారం పూర్తిచేయమని తల్లికి చెప్పారు. పిల్లవాడి కళ్ల ముందర ఓ ఆకర్షణీయమైన కాగితంలో చుట్టిన బహుమతిని ఉంచారు. తల్లి ఫారంని పూర్తిచేసేవారకూ కూడా పిల్లవాడు ఆ కాగితంలో తన కోసం ఏ బహుమతి ఉందో చూడ్డానికి లేదంటూ షరతు విధించారు.   సహజంగానే పిల్లవాడు తన ముందున్న ప్యాకెట్లో ఉన్న బహుమతిని తీసి చూడాలన్న తపనతో ఉంటాడు. ఆ సమయంలో తల్లి ఒక పక్క ఫారంని పూర్తిచేస్తూనే తన కొడుకుని ఏ విధంగా సముదాయించాల్సి వచ్చేది. ఈ సమయంలో వారిని గమనించేందుకు కొందరు సైకాలజిస్టులను నియమించారు. పిల్లవాడితో తల్లి ఎంత ప్రేమగా వ్యవహరిస్తోందో చూసి, దాని బట్టి వారిరువురి మధ్య బంధాన్ని అంచనా వేశారు.   ఓ నాలుగేళ్లు గడచిన తర్వాత ఆనాటి పిల్లలను మళ్లీ ల్యాబ్కు తీసుకువచ్చారు పరిశోధకులు. అక్కడ MRI స్కానింగ్ ద్వారా వారి మెదడులో వచ్చిన మార్పుని అంచనా వేశారు. ప్రేమగా చేసుకునే తల్లులు ఉన్న పిల్లల్లోని హిప్పోకేంపస్ అనే భాగంలో అనూహ్యమైన ఎదుగుదల వచ్చినట్లు గమనించారు. తల్లి అంత ప్రేమగా వ్యవహరించని పిల్లలకంటే వీరి హిప్పోకేంపస్ ఏకంగా పదిశాతం ఎక్కువగా ఎదిగింది. తల్లిప్రేమ పొందిన పిల్లలలో డిప్రెషన్ వంటి లక్షణాలు కూడా తక్కువగా ఉన్నట్లు ఈ ప్రయోగంలో తేలింది.   మనలో నేర్పు, జ్ఞాపకశక్తి, ఒత్తిడిని ఎదుర్కోవడం వంటి లక్షణాలన్నింటినీ హిప్పోకేంపస్ నియంత్రించగలదు. ఈ హిప్పోకేంపస్ బాగుంటే మనిషి అద్భుతాలు సాధించేందుకు సిద్ధంగా ఉంటాడన్న మాట! మరి ఆ అద్భుతాల వెనుక తల్లి ప్రేమ దాగుందన్న విషయం తేలిపోయిందిగా! - నిర్జర.  

మెదడు బాగుండాలా? రెండు నిమిషాలు మౌనం పాటించండి!

నిశ్శబ్దానికి ఉన్న విలువ గురించి భారతీయులకు కొత్తగా చెప్పాల్సిన పనిలేదు. వేల సంవత్సరాల క్రితమే వారికి మౌనంలో దాగిన జ్ఞానం గురించి అవగాహన ఉంది. అందుకే మనసుని నిశ్చలంగా నిలిపి ఉంచే ధ్యానాన్ని కనిపెట్టారు. ‘ఊరికే అలా రాయిలాగా నిశ్చలంగా కూర్చుంటే ఏంటి ఉపయోగం? అంటూ ఒకప్పుడు గేలి చేసిన పాశ్చత్య ప్రపంచం కూడా ఇప్పుడు మౌనం వల్ల కలిగే అద్భుత ఫలితాల గురించి తెలుసుకుని ఆశ్చర్యపోతున్నారు. మెదడు మరింత చురుగ్గా! ఓ నాలుగు సంవత్సరాల క్రితం నిశ్శబ్దకరమైన వాతావరణంలో ఉంటే, మెదడుకి ఏమన్నా ఉపయోగం ఉందేమో కనుక్కోవాలన్న ఆలోచన వచ్చింది శాస్త్రవేత్తలకి. ఆలోచన వచ్చిందే తడువుగా కొన్ని ఎలుకల మీద ఓ ప్రయోగం చేశారు. రోజుకి రెండు గంటలపాటు ఎలుకలకి ఎలాంటి శబ్దమూ చేరకుండా, ప్రశాంతమైన వాతావరణంలో ఉండనిచ్చారు. దాంతో వాటి మెదడులోని హిప్పోకేంపస్ అనే భాగంలో కొత్త కణాలు ఏర్పడటం చూసి పరిశోధకులు బిత్తరపోయారు. మన జ్ఞాపకాలు, ఉద్వేగాలు, నైపుణ్యాలను నియంత్రించడంలో ఈ హిప్పోకేంపస్‌ది ముఖ్యపాత్ర! అంటే నిశ్శబ్దమైన వాతావరణంలో ఉండటం వల్ల మన మెదడు మరింత చురుగ్గా మారే అవకాశం ఉందన్నమాట. సమస్య మరింత తేలికగా!   నిశ్శబ్దంలో ఉండటం లేదా మనసుని నిశ్చలంగా ఉంచుకోవడం వల్ల... సమస్యలని పరిష్కరించడం కూడా తేలికగా మారిపోతుందని నిపుణులు చెబుతున్నారు. మెదడు అటూఇటూ పోకుండా నేరుగా సమస్య మీదే తన దృష్టిని కేంద్రీకరించేందుకు కావల్సిన స్వేచ్ఛ దొరుకుతుందట. సరికొత్తగా, సృజనాత్మకంగా ఆలోచించే అవకాశమూ దక్కుతుంది. మెదడుని అలా నిశ్చలంగా ఉంచే ప్రయత్నం చేస్తే, అసలు ఆలోచనలే ఉండవు కదా! అన్న అనుమానం రావచ్చు. మెదడు విశ్రాంతిగా ఉన్నప్పుడు కూడా, మనం ఏ సమస్యనైతే మెదడుకి అందించామో.... దాన్ని విశ్లేషిస్తూనే ఉంటుంది. శబ్దంతో ఒత్తిడి   ఇప్పటివరకూ నిశ్శబ్దం గురించి చెప్పుకొన్నాం కాబట్టి, ఇప్పుడు శబ్దం వల్ల ఏర్పడే ఫలితం కూడా ఓసారి చూద్దాం. చుట్టూ అదేపనిగా శబ్దాలు వినిపిస్తూ ఉంటే శరీరం, ఒత్తిడిని కలిగించే రసాయనాలను (stress hormones)ను విడుదల చేస్తుందని తేలింది. గాఢ నిద్రలో ఉన్నా కూడా పక్కనే వినిపించే శబ్దాలకు మెదడు కంగారుపడుతూనే ఉంటుందట. నిరంతరం రణగొణధ్వనుల మధ్య ఉండే పిల్లల్ని గమనించినప్పుడు.... ఆ శబ్దాలు వారి చదువు, ఎదుగుదల, తెలివితేటల మీద తీవ్రమైన ప్రభావం చూపుతున్నట్లు తేలింది. ఆ శబ్దాలకు అలవాటుపడిన పిల్లలు ఆఖరికి ఎదుటివారు ఏం మాట్లాడుతున్నారో కూడా విశ్లేషించే సామర్థ్యాన్ని కోల్పోతున్నారట!   ఏతావాతా... నిశ్శబ్దకరమైన వాతావరణంలో ఉండే ప్రయత్నం చేయడం, మనమూ మౌనంగా ఉండటం వల్ల అద్భుతమైన ఫలితాలు ఉంటాయని తేలిపోయింది! అందుకే రెండు నిమిషాల పాటు మంచి సంగీతాన్ని విన్నప్పుడు కలిగే హాయికంటే, రెండు నిమిషాల పాటు మౌనంగా ఉన్నప్పుడ పొందే ప్రశాంతతే ఎక్కువని తేల్చారు పరిశోధకులు. - నిర్జర