#Gastrointestinal Health Research

[healixhospitals24]

Discover the impact of nutrition on gastrointestinal health. Explore the latest research findings and insights into maintaining a healthy gut.

Do Visit: https://www.healixhospitals.com/blogs/the-impact-of-nutrition-on-gastrointestinal-health:-latest-research-findings

[wizardhex]

pissed off again thinking about how while at a friends birthday party last month mentioned that I might try taking antidepressants to help with my chronic illness and two of the girls there started yelling at me about how evil antidepressants are and how the side effects are Terrible and they'll Fuck Me Up and I should NEVER take them if I'm not Actually depressed (and then asked if I was...) like first of all you don't know me nor are you entitled to that information lol second of all I'm not gonna be scared out of trying something that could potentially improve my life drastically just because I might feel bad for a few weeks!! I'm already fucking suffering every day!!

[drashfaqhealth]

قبض سے آگاہی کا مہینہ: 14 دسمبر

New Post has been published on https://drashfaq.com/days/world-days-urdu/554/

قبض سے آگاہی کا مہینہ: 14 دسمبر

قبض سے آگاہی کا مہینہ: 14 دسمبر

قبض ایک عام بیماری ہے جس کا اثر بہت سے لوگوں پر ہوتا ہے۔ قبض کے دوران آنتوں کی حرکت میں کمی آتی ہے ��ور فضلہ نکالنے میں مشکلات کا سامنا کرنا پڑتا ہے۔ اس بیماری کی اہمیت اور اس کے علاج کے بارے میں شعور بیدار کرنے کے لئے ہر سال 14 دسمبر کو قبض سے آگاہی کا مہینہ منایا جاتا ہے۔

قبض سے آگاہی کا مہینہ کا مقصد

اس مہینے کا بنیادی مقصد عوام میں قبض کی اہمیت کے بارے میں شعور بیدار کرنا ہے۔ قبض کے مسائل کو سمجھنا اور اس کے علاج کے لئے مختلف اقدامات کو فروغ دینا بھی اس مہینے کا مقصد ہوتا ہے۔

قبض سے آگاہی کا مہینہ کے مقاصد میں شامل ہیں

شعور بیدار کرنا عوام میں قبض کی اہمیت اور اس کے اثرات کے بارے میں معلومات فراہم کرنا اور انہیں قبض کے مسائل سے آگاہ کرنا۔

تحقیق کی حمایت قبض کے مسائل کے حل کے لئے تحقیق کی حمایت کرنا اور نئے طریقے تلاش کرنا۔

تعلیم اور تربیت قبض کے مسائل کے بارے میں تعلیم اور تربیت کو فروغ دینا تاکہ لوگوں کو اس بیماری کے علاج کے بارے میں آگاہی حاصل ہو۔

صحت کی خدمات میں بہتری قبض کے مسائل کے علاج کے ذریعے صحت کی خدمات میں بہتری لانا تاکہ لوگوں کی صحت بہتر ہو سکے۔

قبض سے آگاہی کا مہینہ کی تاریخ

قبض سے آگاہی کا مہینہ سب سے پہلے 2012 میں منایا گیا تھا۔ اس مہینے کو منانے کا مقصد عوام میں قبض کی اہمیت کے بارے میں آگاہ کرنا اور اس کے مسائل کو سمجھنا تھا۔ اس مہینے کو مختلف طریقوں سے منایا جاتا ہے جیسے سیمینار کانفرنس اور مختلف پروگرام منعقد کیے جاتے ہیں۔ اس کے علاوہ میڈیا سوشل میڈیا اور دیگر ذرائع ابلاغ کے ذریعے بھی اس مہینے کی اہمیت کو اجاگر کیا جاتا ہے۔

قبض سے آگاہی کا مہینہ کے اہم پیغامات

تحقیق کی حمایت قبض کے مسائل کے حل کے لئے تحقیق کی حمایت کرنا اور نئے طریقے تلاش کرنا۔

تعلیم اور آگاہی لوگوں کو قبض کے مسائل کے بارے میں تعلیم دینا اور انہیں قبض کے علاج کے بارے میں آگاہ کرنا۔

صحت کی خدمات میں بہتری قبض کے مسائل کے علاج کے ذریعے صحت کی خدمات میں بہتری لانا تاکہ لوگوں کی صحت بہتر ہو سکے۔

ماہرین کی تعداد میں اضافہ قبض کے مسائل کے علاج کے لئے ماہرین کی تعداد میں اضافہ کرنا تاکہ لوگوں کی صحت بہتر ہو سکے۔

قبض کی اہمیت

قبض دنیا بھر میں لوگوں کی زندگیوں میں اہم کردار ادا کرتی ہے۔ یہ بیماری آنتوں کی حرکت میں کمی اور فضلہ نکالنے میں مشکلات کا باعث بنتی ہے۔ قبض کی اہمیت کے چند پہلو درج ذیل ہیں

آنتوں کی حرکت میں کمی قبض کے دوران آنتوں کی حرکت میں کمی آتی ہے جس کی وجہ سے فضلہ نکالنے میں مشکلات کا سامنا کرنا پڑتا ہے۔

صحت کی خدمات میں بہتری قبض کے مسائل کے علاج کے ذریعے صحت کی خدمات میں بہتری لائی جا سکتی ہے تاکہ لوگوں کی صحت بہتر ہو سکے۔

تحقیق اور ترقی قبض کے مسائل کے حل کے لئے تحقیق اور ترقی کے ذریعے نئے طریقے اور علاج دریافت کیے جا سکتے ہیں جو صحت کی خدمات کو بہتر بنا سکتے ہیں۔

ماہرین کی تعداد میں اضافہ قبض کے مسائل کے علاج کے لئے ماہرین کی تعداد میں اضافہ کرنا تاکہ لوگوں کی صحت بہتر ہو سکے۔

قبض کے چیلنجز

قبض کو مختلف چیلنجز کا سامنا کرنا پڑتا ہے جو اس کی ترقی کو متاثر کر سکتے ہیں۔ ان چیلنجز میں شامل ہیں

تعلیمی فقدان قبض کے فوائد کے بارے میں عوامی شعور کی کمی بھی ایک اہم چیلنج ہے۔

مالی مشکلات قبض کے مسائل کے حل کے لئے مالی مشکلات کا سامنا کرنا پڑ سکتا ہے۔

ماہرین کی کمی قبض کے مسائل کے علاج کے لئے ماہرین کی کمی بھی ایک اہم چیلنج ہے۔

قبض کے تحفظ کے اقدامات

قبض کے تحفظ کے لئے م��تلف اقدامات اختیار کیے جا سکتے ہیں تاکہ اس مسئلے کو کم کیا جا سکے۔ ان میں شامل ہیں

تعلیم اور آگاہی لوگوں کو قبض کے مسائل کے بارے میں تعلیم دینا اور انہیں قبض کے علاج کے بارے میں آگاہ کرنا۔

تحقیق کی حمایت قبض کے مسائل کے حل کے لئے تحقیق کی حمایت کرنا اور نئے طریقے تلاش کرنا۔

ماہرین کی تعداد میں اضافہ قبض کے مسائل کے علاج کے لئے ماہرین کی تعداد میں اضافہ کرنا تاکہ لوگوں کی صحت بہتر ہو سکے۔

مالی معاونت قبض کے مسائل کے حل کے لئے مالی معاونت فراہم کرنا تاکہ اس کی ترقی کو یقینی بنایا جا سکے۔

نتائج

قبض سے آگاہی کا مہینہ ہر سال 14 دسمبر کو منایا جاتا ہے تاکہ قبض کی اہمیت اور اس کے مسائل کے بارے میں شعور بیدار کیا جا سکے اور اس کے علاج کے لئے مختلف اقدامات کیے جا سکیں۔ قبض کے مسائل کے حل کے لئے تحقیق اور ترقی کے فروغ کے لئے مختلف اقدامات کو فروغ دینا تعلیم ماہرین کی تعداد میں اضافہ اور مالی معاونت بہت اہم ہیں۔ قبض کی حفاظت کے لئے عوامی شعور بیدار کرنا اور تحقیق کی حمایت کرنا بہت ضروری ہے۔

[mehmetyildizmelbourne-blog]

Do You Want Your Lovely Dogs to Live Healthier and Longer?

Pets Health According to scientific studies and reviews, fasting can also be healthier for canines. I have always deeply loved animals, but dogs hold a special place in my heart. My connection with them runs so deep that I once wrote a humorous story about an experience with a past-life channeler who claimed I was a dog in a previous life. Sharing that interesting finding with friends gave us…

[liminalweirdo]

"Since 2020, the condition known as long COVID-19 has become a widespread disability affecting the health and quality of life of millions of people across the globe and costing economies billions of dollars in reduced productivity of employees and an overall drop in the work force.

The intense scientific effort that long COVID sparked has resulted in more than 24,000 scientific publications, making it the most researched health condition in any four years of recorded human history."

...

It concludes that long COVID is a complex chronic condition that can result in more than 200 health effects across multiple body systems. These include new onset or worsening:

heart disease

neurologic problems such as cognitive impairment, strokes and dysautonomia. This is a category of disorders that affect the body’s autonomic nervous system – nerves that regulate most of the body’s vital mechanisms such as blood pressure, heart rate and temperature.

post-exertional malaise, a state of severe exhaustion that may happen after even minor activity — often leaving the patient unable to function for hours, days or weeks

gastrointestinal disorders

kidney disease

metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hyperlipidemia, or a rise in bad cholesterol

immune dysfunction

Long COVID can affect people across the lifespan from children to older adults and across race and ethnicity and baseline health status. Importantly, more than 90% of people with long COVID had mild COVID-19 infections."

There is still no cure.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Word List: Psychology

psychological concepts as reference for your poem/story (pt. 1)

Acute stress - Results from the sudden onset of demands or events that seem to be beyond the control of the individual. This type of stress is often experienced as tension headaches, emotional upsets, gastrointestinal disturbances, and feelings of agitation and pressure.

Barnum statements - Generalities or statements that could apply to anyone. A good example is the astrology column published in daily newspapers.

Core conditions - According to Carl Rogers, in client-centered therapy, 3 core conditions must be present in order for progress to occur: (a) an atmosphere of genuine acceptance on the part of the therapist; (b) the therapist must express unconditional positive regard for the client; and (c) the client must feel that the therapist understands him or her (empathic understanding).

Daily hassles - The major sources of stress in most people’s lives. Although minor, daily hassles can be chronic and repetitive, such as having too much to do all the time, having to fight the crowds while shopping, or having to worry over money. Such daily hassles can be chronically irritating though they do not initiate the same general adaptation syndrome evoked by some major life events.

Eye-blink startle method - People typically blink their eyes when they are startled by a loud noise. Moreover, a person who is in an anxious or fearful state will blink faster and harder when startled than a person in a normal emotional state. This means that eyeblink speed when startled may be an objective physiological measure of how anxious or fearful a person is feeling. The eye-blink startle method may allow researchers to measure how anxious persons are without actually having to ask them.

Frustration - The high-arousal unpleasant subjective feeling that comes when a person is blocked from attaining an important goal. For example, a thirsty person who just lost his last bit of money in a malfunctioning soda machine would most likely feel frustration.

Global self-esteem - By far the most frequently measured component of selfesteem; defined as “the level of global regard that one has for the self as a person” (Harter, 1993, p. 88). Global self-esteem can range from highly positive to highly negative, and reflects an overall evaluation of the self at the broadest level (Kling et al., 1999). Global self-esteem is linked with many aspects of functioning and is commonly thought to be central to mental health.

Hostile forces of nature - What Darwin called any event that impedes survival. This includes food shortages, diseases, parasites, predators, and extremes of weather.

Identity foreclosure - A person does not emerge from a crisis with a firm sense of commitment to values, relationships, or career but forms an identity without exploring alternatives. An example would be young people who accept the values of their parents or their cultural or religious group without question.

Inhibitory control - Ability to control inappropriate responses or behaviors.

Source ⚜ More: On Psychology ⚜ Word Lists ⚜ Notes & References

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved on our archive

By Jamie Ducharme

When you reach for a COVID-19 test, it’s probably because you’ve got a scratchy throat, runny nose, or cough. But those are far from the only symptoms that make Dr. Rohit Jain, an internal medicine doctor at PennState Health, suspect the virus.

These days, when someone complains of nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting, “I always get a COVID test on that patient,” Jain says.

Why? Despite its reputation as a respiratory virus, SARS-CoV-2 can also have a profound impact on the gut. Although most people don’t realize it, “COVID-19 really is a GI-tract disease” as well as a respiratory illness, says Dr. Mark Rupp, chief of infectious diseases at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Here’s what to know about the gastrointestinal symptoms of COVID-19.

What are the GI symptoms of COVID-19? While some people experience no gastrointestinal symptoms or mild ones, a subset of COVID-19 patients have experienced significant digestive symptoms since the early days of the pandemic.

Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are common GI symptoms of COVID-19, according to Jain’s research. Some people experience these issues as their first signs of infection, he says, while others initially experience cold-like symptoms and develop gastrointestinal issues as their illness progresses.

It’s not entirely clear why the same virus can affect people so differently, but it’s good to be aware that SARS-CoV-2 can result in a wide range of symptoms, Rupp says.

How long do GI symptoms of COVID-19 last? Some patients recover in a matter of days, Jain says, while others may suffer from diarrhea and other symptoms for weeks.

Still others may be sick for even longer. Gastrointestinal problems are a common manifestation of Long COVID, the name for chronic symptoms that follow a case of COVID-19 and can last indefinitely.

One recent study in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that, among a small group of adults who were hospitalized when they had acute COVID-19, more than 40% who originally experienced GI problems such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea still had at least one a year or more later. Overall, whether they were hospitalized or not, adults who have had COVID-19 are about 36% more likely than uninfected people to develop gastrointestinal disorders including ulcers, pancreatitis, IBS, and acid reflux, according to a 2023 study published in Nature Communications.

GI problems are also common among kids with Long COVID. Stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting are telltale signs of the condition among children younger than 12, according to 2024 research published in JAMA.

Why a respiratory virus affects the gut How can the same virus cause both a runny nose and the runs?

Once SARS-CoV-2 gets into your body, it infects cells by binding to a protein called ACE2, which is found throughout the body. ACE2 is prevalent in the lungs, which helps explain COVID-19’s respiratory symptoms—but it’s also found in high concentrations in the gastrointestinal tract, “so it makes sense that the GI tract would be a target for the virus,” Rupp says. It’s in part because SARS-CoV-2 collects in the gut that wastewater surveillance is a useful tool for tracking the virus’ spread, Rupp adds.

Studies have shown that the virus can hide out in the “nooks and crannies” of the digestive system for months or even years, says Ziyad Al-Aly, a clinical epidemiologist at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis who co-authored the Nature Communications study on chronic post-COVID GI symptoms. This may explain why gut-related symptoms can long outlast an acute infection, Al-Aly says—but there are many potential hypotheses in play, and researchers don’t know for sure which one or ones are correct.

For example, many researchers also think the virus is capable of causing widespread and sometimes long-lasting inflammation, potentially affecting organs throughout the body. This inflammatory response may have trickle-down effects on the gut microbiome, the colony of bacteria and other microbes that live in the GI tract, Rupp says. “We’re just scratching the surface as to what happens there,” Rupp says, but studies have already shown that SARS-CoV-2 can change the composition of the gut microbiome both during an acute infection and chronically.

There’s also a complex relationship between the gut and the brain, adds Dr. Badih Joseph Elmunzer, a gastroenterologist at the Medical University of South Carolina and co-author of the Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology study on prolonged post-COVID GI symptoms. His research suggests people are particularly likely to suffer long-term GI problems if they also have signs of PTSD from their acute illness or hospitalization.

That’s not to say GI symptoms are all in patients’ heads; on the contrary, Elmunzer says, they are very real. But, he says, there’s a lot left to learn about the microbiome, the gut, and the myriad ways they interact with other bodily systems.

[thewolffairytaler]

I think I figured out Thomas Hewitt's disease

_____________________________

_____________________________

I just realised something, Thomas might have lupus (SLE). This isn't confirmed, nor do I believe that Thomas's disease is actually real. However, it's good to think of the idea that it was actually inspired by something or at least make sense.

The majority of lupus patients experience skin issues, including blisters or rashes. Sometimes, lupus simply affects the skin, while other times, it affects other bodily parts as well. Cutaneous lupus refers to skin issues that are unique to lupus patients. Three primary categories exist:

Chronic cutaneous lupus (also called discoid lupus) causes round, disc-shaped sores, usually on the face and scalp. The sores can cause scars or changes in skin color.

Subacute cutaneous lupus causes a red scaly rash or red ring-shaped sores. It usually happens on skin that gets sunlight, like the neck and arms.

Acute cutaneous lupus causes a butterfly-shaped rash on the cheeks and nose that looks like a sunburn (called malar rash). Sometimes it affects other body parts, like the arms and legs.

Other skin-related issues that people with lupus may experience include: Loss of hair Calcinosis: calcium accumulation resulting in hard, white lumps beneath the skin Mucosal ulcers (mouth, nose, or vaginal sores) Blood or visible blood vessels on the skin can also be problematic for those with lupus. Here are several examples: Raynaud's illness, which causes numbness and white or blue fingers and toes in response to stress or cold Livedo reticularis is a purple or blue pattern that appears through the skin and resembles fishnet stockings or lace. Palmar erythema (redness in the palms of the hands) Petechiae are little red patches on the skin that are brought on by thrombocytopenia, or reduced platelets in the blood.

A good thing to mention is that lupus skin problems are not contagious. You can’t catch them or give them to someone else. It only occurs when you'r body's immune system attacks its/your own tissue and organs. The thing about lupus is that it creates a slouth of unexpected symptoms. It can take a while for it to be diagnosed, and once you have done that, it can be incredibly stressful. Lupus is like a disease that can really flare up, physically and even psychological causes can cause lupus to flare up.

So here comes the question that people are first thinking about: Is it cureable? Unfortunately, lupus has no cure, but medicines and lifestyle changes can help treat and manage it.

See a physician on a regular basis. Seeing a doctor on a frequent basis rather than only when your symptoms get worse may help your doctor avoid flare-ups and address common health issues like stress, nutrition, and exercise that can help prevent complications from lupus. Be astute. Wear protective clothes, such as a hat, long-sleeved shirt, and long pants, and apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 55 whenever you go outside because UV light might provoke a flare. Engage in frequent physical activity. Exercise helps lower a person's chance of heart attack, maintains strong bones, and improves your general health.

Avoid smoking. Smoking can exacerbate the effects of lupus on your heart and blood vessels and raise your risk of cardiovascular illness. Consume a nutritious diet. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are the main components of a nutritious diet. One may occasionally be subject to dietary limitations, particularly if you suffer from kidney impairment, high blood pressure, or gastrointestinal issues. Find out from a doctor if you require calcium and vitamin D supplements. Supplementing with vitamin D may help persons with lupus, according to some studies. To maintain healthy bones, you can take a calcium supplement to help you reach the 1,000–1,200 mg daily dietary intake, depending on your age.

Now, I'm not a professional. All I have done is going through multiple sites for research purposes in order to figure this mystery out. If you don't agree with me, that's totally fine. I want to know your opinions and own theories/takes on it cause I don't think there's ever going to be a clear answer. Not unless the original directors or any actor from the remakes states it to us.

[r1poutmygvtz]

i am so sorry to be bothering you abt this but

If you've dealt with the hair loss of 4norexia how did you deal with it

(I spent years caring abt my hair and I kinda don't want it to fall out-)

don't worry, you're not bothering me at all!! i've never personally dealt with hair loss but i do have a list of things that's said to prevent it, keep in mind that this is just what i've found through research and what i've heard works and may not be 100% true :)

Supplements

Vitamin A- produces sebum which is a natural oil that keeps the hair from becoming brittle and dry by moisturizing the scalp helps promote cell/hair growth, improves blood circulation to the scalp which brings oxygen and nutrients to the roots, helps repair damaged hair, helps protect the hair from UV rays and environmental pollution. Recommended time to take it: with a meal, preferably one that contains healthy fats

Vitamin B7/Biotin- essential for the production of keratin which is a protein that makes up hair as well as skin and nails. Recommended time to take it: any time of the day, with or without food

Vitamin B9/Folic acid- also helps produce keratin, helps renew and grow hair follicles, helps create red blood cells that carry oxygen and nutrients to the hair, helps distribute nutrients throughout the body which can make the hair look shinier and stronger. Recommended time to take it: in the morning with it without food

Vitamin B12- produces red blood cells that carry oxygen to hair follicles, metabolizes amino acids which are fundamental to hair health, stimulates hair follicles to produce healthy strands of hair, prevents breakage and strengthens hair strands due to quicker cell division; producing stronger cells. Recommended time to take it: on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before or 2 hours after eating

Vitamin C- helps produce collagen which supports hair follicles and strengthens hair, helps absorb iron, prevents dihydrotestosterone which is a hormone that could possibly cause hair loss, helps reduce dandruff and itchy scalp due to vitamin C having antibacterial and antiviral properties, and can help improve the outer cuticles alignment which makes the hair shinier and more vibrant (if applied to the hair, i believe the last two won't work if taken orally). Recommended time to take it: any time, with or without food, taking them with food can reduce gastrointestinal side effects

Vitamin D- helps create new hair follicles which are the pores that hair grows from, signals the anagen phase by interacting with hair follicles which produces thicker hair. Recommended time to take it: in the morning with food that preferably contains healthy fats

Vitamin E- has antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress that contributes to hair loss due to damaged hair follicles, creates a protective layer that locks in moisture and prevents dandruff, helps balance the scalps oil production by soothing the oil glands, helps unclog hair follicles, can help prevent damage to hair ends, can increase blood flow to the scalp which keeps it nourished and hydrated. Recommended time to take it: with dinner or before bed

Iron- helps produce hemoglobin which is a protein in red blood cells that carry oxygen to hair follicles. Recommended time to take it: in the morning, an hour before eating, drinking, or consuming calcium

Zinc- helps maintain the hair follicles structure, it's involved in DNA and RNA production which is important for cell division, regulates keratin production, helps maintain oil glands around hair follicles which keeps the hair looking shiny, aids collagen formation; giving the hair strength and bounce. Recommended time to take it: on an empty stomach or with a protein rich meal

Collagen- a protein that surrounds each strand of hair, helps grow thicker and stronger hair by strengthening the follicles, gives hair volume and retains moisture, helps manage elasticity which makes it less likely to become brittle and damaged, can help treat brittle and dry hair and repair split ends, promotes scalp health which promotes healthy hair growth. Recommended time to take it: any time on an empty stomach or with a cold drink

Omega 3- a fatty acid, nourishes hair, prevents inflammation in hair follicles, improves circulation in the scalp, may help with thinning hair and dryness. Recommended time to take it: any time with foods containing healthy fats

Lifestyle

Manage stress by meditating, journaling, talking to friends/family, etc

Wear a hat and/or use UV-protectant products on your hair and scalp when going outside

Be gentle with your hair while brushing or combing, use a detangler

Avoid harsh treatments on your hair like dyes, curling/straightening, heat, etc. If you do plan to curl/straighten/blowdry your hair then use heat protectant

Choose loose hairstyles over tight ones that pull on your hair

Take care of your scalp by keeping it clean, gently massage in shampoo with your fingers or use a scalp massager

Eat more protein

Use a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent breakage due to friction, tangling, and pulling

Use essential oils on your hair, mix a few drops with a carrier oil like almond, olive, coconut, or jojoba oil, massage the mixture into your scalp and ends if you choose, leave it in for 5-10 minutes or rinse immediately, repeat 2-3 times a week.

Rosemary Oil- may promote new hair growth and slow hair loss

Chamomile Oil- may calm an irritated scalp, promote hair growth, and reduce dandruff

Peppermint Oil- may help with hair thickness and growth

Tea Tree Oil- may help make hair healthier and remove dandruff

Lavender Oil- promotes hair growth, fullness, and thickness; can reduce frizziness and split ends, can protect the scalp from bacteria and fungus, can treat lice and bacterial infections, can help close the cuticle layer and protect hair, and can strengthen hair follicles

[kira-akira]

Bernie Sanders Introduces Long COVID Moonshot Legislation

This legislation "provides $1 billion in mandatory funding per year for 10 years to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support Long COVID research, the urgent pursuit of treatments, and the expansion of care for patients across the country." Announcement on Sander's twitter and the Long COVID Moonshot website.

This announcement references the number 22 million for adults affected by Long COVID in the US but that number is certainly much higher; in 2022 the CDC reported that 7.5% of US adults have Long COVID and that number can only have increased.

Here is an article published today on PBS if you need a primer or a refresher on what Long COVID is and why everyone needs to care about it. From the article:

"Long COVID is a complex chronic condition that can result in more than 200 health effects across multiple body systems. These include:

Heart disease

Neurologic problems such as cognitive impairment, strokes and dysautonomia. This is a category of disorders that affect the body’s autonomic nervous system – nerves that regulate most of the body’s vital mechanisms such as blood pressure, heart rate and temperature.

Post-exertional malaise, a state of severe exhaustion that may happen after even minor activity — often leaving the patient unable to function for hours, days or weeks

Gastrointestinal disorders

Kidney disease

Metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hyperlipidemia, or a rise in bad cholesterol

Immune dysfunction"

I know it's easy to give into despair but THERE IS HOPE for the future! For decreasing transmission of COVID-19, for developing preventatives against Long COVID, and for treating Long COVID. To highlight just a few of the possible pathways to prevention and treatment being currently researched:

The possibility of using antivirals to treat not just Long COVID but any autoimmune disease

The development of N95 masks that can sense SARS-CoV-2 in exhaled breath using a printed immunosensor

A nasal vaccine that halts transmission of SARS-CoV-2 (though does not stop the user from developing COVID-19)

A Japanese research team is looking to treat COVID-19 by using embryonic stem cells to target the virus

The possibility of using already-developed arthritis drugs to treat Long COVID respiratory symptoms

Researchers just identified a possible protein to target in treating Long COVID fatigue

This is an incredibly small collection of studies researching potential treatments but they themselves and the decades of research they are built on had to be funded. In fact, since the pandemic began, more than 24,000 scientific publications about COVID-19 have been published, making it the most researched health condition in any four years of recorded human history.

So there is hope! But all this research needs money. Money that Long COVID Moonshot will provide. And while we wait for research to bear fruit, that $1 billion per year will also be crucial in caring for those suffering from Long COVID in the meantime.

So What Can You Do?

Keep masking - We've just hit 900,000 new COVID cases per day in the US and this wave is not even at its peak yet (For reference, Fauci stated back in 2021 that getting under 10,000 cases per day would allow for mask mandates and safety measures to relax...)

Go on the Long COVID Moonshot website and write to your legislators in support (You can use their script, it only takes 1 minute!)

Keep yourselves and others informed - On the Moonshot website they also offer handy graphics and facts sheets that you can post wherever you can. Spread the word!

And if you or someone you know has Long COVID, you can write in to the Long COVID Moonshot website about your experience

And remember, no one is safe from Long COVID; your chances of developing Long COVID increase with every reinfection. Until research like what Long COVID Moonshot will fund discovers viable preventatives and treatments, the only way to not get Long COVID is to not get COVID-19 in the first place.

Stay safe, stay hopeful, support Long COVID Moonshot, and mask up!

[theambitiouswoman]

Natural Remedies for Common Ailments 🍃

*Natural remedies can be a great option for managing common ailments, but it's important to remember that they may not always be a substitute for professional medical advice and treatment. If you have a serious or persistent health issue, it's important to consult with a doctor. Also, remember that what works for one person may not work for another. Do your independent research, some natural remedies may have interactions with medications or existing medical conditions.*

Cold and Flu:

Honey and Lemon: Mix honey and lemon in warm water to soothe a sore throat and ease congestion.

Ginger Tea: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with nausea and congestion.

Echinacea: Some people use Echinacea supplements or tea to boost the immune system.

Headaches:

Peppermint Oil: Apply diluted peppermint oil to your temples for headache relief.

Ginger Tea: Ginger may help reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.

Indigestion:

Peppermint Tea: Peppermint can help relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.

Chamomile Tea: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties.

Insomnia:

Valerian Root: Valerian root supplements or tea may promote relaxation and help with sleep.

Lavender Oil: Lavender aromatherapy or a few drops on your pillow can promote relaxation.

Small Burns and Cuts:

Aloe Vera: Apply aloe vera gel to soothe burns and promote healing.

Honey: Honey has antibacterial properties and can be applied to cuts and wounds.

Stress and Anxiety:

Exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce stress and anxiety.

Meditation and Yoga: These practices can help you relax and manage stress.

Lavender or Chamomile Tea: These herbal teas may have a calming effect.

Sore Throat:

Salt Water Gargle: Gargling with warm salt water can relieve a sore throat.

Marshmallow Root Tea: Marshmallow root tea can help soothe throat irritation.

Nausea:

Ginger: Ginger candies, ginger tea, or ginger capsules can help with nausea.

Peppermint: Peppermint tea or candies may also help alleviate nausea.

Constipation:

Fiber-Rich Foods: Eating foods like prunes, bran, and beans can promote regular bowel movements.

Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential for preventing constipation.

Acne:

Tea Tree Oil: Applying diluted tea tree oil to acne-prone areas may help reduce breakouts.

Honey and Cinnamon Mask: Mixing honey and cinnamon into a paste and applying it as a mask can be beneficial for some.

[healixhospitals24]

The Impact Of Nutrition On Gastrointestinal Health: Latest Research Findings

In the intricate dance of health and wellness, the role of nutrition cannot be overstated, particularly when it comes to the intricate workings of the gastrointestinal system. At Healix Hospitals, we stand at the forefront of understanding how the foods we consume impact our gut health, drawing from the latest research findings to guide our patients toward digestive wellness.

Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of gastrointestinal health, exploring the profound influence of nutrition and unveiling the latest discoveries in the field.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Did You Know?

The human gut is home to approximately 100 trillion microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota, which play a crucial role in digestion, immunity, and overall health.

The gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication network between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain, highlights the intricate connection between nutrition, mental health, and gastrointestinal function.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Why Is Nutrition Vital for Gastrointestinal Health?

Digestive System Functionality

The foods we consume directly influence the structure and function of our digestive system. A balanced diet rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals supports efficient digestion and regular bowel movements, preventing issues like constipation and bloating.

Gut Microbiota Composition

Nutrition profoundly impacts the diversity and balance of our gut microbiota, comprising trillions of microorganisms that play a crucial role in digestion, immunity, and overall health. A diet high in fiber and fermented foods nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a robust microbiome ecosystem.

Prevention of Digestive Disorders

Poor dietary choices can contribute to the development of various GI disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Opting for a gut-friendly diet can help prevent or manage these conditions, reducing discomfort and improving quality of life.

Inflammation Reduction

Certain nutrients possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate inflammation in the digestive tract. Incorporating foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and phytonutrients can mitigate inflammation, potentially reducing the risk of chronic digestive ailments.

Enhanced Nutrient Absorption

A healthy GI tract is essential for optimal nutrient absorption. By consuming a diverse array of nutrient-dense foods, we ensure that our bodies receive the vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients necessary for overall well-being.

Support for the Intestinal Barrier

The integrity of the intestinal barrier, which regulates the passage of substances from the gut into the bloodstream, is crucial for preventing harmful pathogens and toxins from entering the body. Certain nutrients, such as glutamine and zinc, support the maintenance of a healthy intestinal barrier, protecting against leaky gut syndrome and related issues.

Nutrition plays a fundamental role in maintaining the intricate balance of gastrointestinal (GI) health, encompassing a myriad of processes from digestion to the composition of gut microbiota. A holistic approach to nutrition can significantly impact GI function, offering a pathway towards enhanced well-being and disease prevention.

Dietary Influence on Digestive Processes:

The composition of our diet profoundly affects the structure and function of the digestive system. Consuming a diet abundant in fiber, found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, facilitates regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and fosters a diverse gut microbiome. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can disrupt GI function, potentially leading to gastrointestinal disturbances.

Continue Reading: https://www.healixhospitals.com/blogs/the-impact-of-nutrition-on-gastrointestinal-health:-latest-research-findings

[itsaspectrumcomic]

my mom thinks that diet will cure my audhd. she's putting me on a "special diet". is that a real thing because i don't think it is.

I can't speak for ADHD, but there is little to no scientific evidence that special diets can 'improve' autism, let alone 'cure' it.

There is some evidence to suggest autistic people are more likely to have an intolerance to gluten:

'A review by Valicenti-McDermott et al (2006) found that 70% of autistic children had gastrointestinal problems compared to 42% of children without a diagnosis of autism.' - Autism and gluten and casein-free diets from the National Autistic Society

so if you are actually gluten intolerant and you stop eating gluten you might feel better and have less stomach issues, but as far as I know there's not a direct correlation with autism, and being autistic does not mean you're also gluten intolerant.

Here are some articles and studies you might find helpful:

'National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) advises not to use exclusion diets such as gluten and casein-free diets as you may miss out on certain nutrients. In children this may lead to weight loss and affect their growth.' Autism and diet (bda.uk.com)

'...a review of data from 27 clinical trials...shows that there is little to no scientific evidence to support the bulk of these diets.' Analysis finds little evidence to support dietary interventions for autism | Spectrum | Autism Research News (spectrumnews.org)

Here's a link to the study the above article mentions

The best diet is a healthy balanced one with the right proportions and a good variety from all the food groups.

[hearthfire-heartfire]

"In the most comprehensive national study since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, a team of researchers that includes a Rutgers-organized consortium of pediatric sites has concluded that long COVID symptoms in children are tangible, pervasive, wide ranging and clinically distinct within specific age groups. Results of the study, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), are published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. “We have convincing evidence that COVID-19 is not just a mild, benign illness for children,” said Lawrence C. Kleinman, a professor of pediatrics and population health expert at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS) and the study’s third co-author. “There are children who are clearly disabled by long COVID for long periods of time.” In the early stages of the pandemic, a myth arose and was perpetuated suggesting that because children often developed only mild cases of COVID-19, the risks for young patients were not serious. But this conjecture dissipated amid a rash of data demonstrating that a few children infected with COVID-19 will get very sick and others will suffer an array of health complications long after initial exposure. Broadly defined, long COVID includes symptoms, signs, and conditions – such as aches, fatigue, memory loss and stomach pain – that develop, persist or relapse more than a month after a COVID-19 infection. Worldwide, an estimated 65 million people, including children, live with long COVID. Until recently, most research into COVID-19’s lingering effects focused on adults. To quantify long COVID’s impact on children and determine whether symptoms experienced by the youngest COVID-19 patients differ by age group and from adults, Kleinman and more than 140 researchers throughout the United States crunched data from NIH’s Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) Initiative, a national effort to survey COVID-19’s long-term impact. As part of RECOVER, caregivers for 5,367 children (898 school-aged children and 4,469 adolescents) completed online surveys about their children’s health in time for this data analysis. Roughly 86 percent of the sample had previously been infected with COVID-19, while 14 percent – the control group – had not. The survey assessed 74 known and potential long COVID-19 symptoms across nine domains: eyes, ears, nose and throat; heart and lungs; gastrointestinal; dermatologic; musculoskeletal; neurologic; behavioral and psychological; menstrual; and general. By analyzing the responses, researchers found 45 percent of COVID-19 infected school-age children (ages 6 to 11) reported at least one prolonged symptom after initial recovery versus 33 percent of uninfected children. Thirty-nine percent of COVID-19 infected adolescents (ages 12 to 17) reported one prolonged symptom, compared with 27 percent of uninfected adolescents.  These differences implicate the virus as a likely causal factor, rather than just having lived through the pandemic. Long COVID symptoms in children also were clustered in patterns distinct from adults and from each other. For instance, the most common symptom in adolescents was loss of smell and taste, followed by low energy, muscle aches and fatigue. For school-age children, memory and focus issues topped the list, followed by stomach pain, headaches and back or neck pain. Children experienced prolonged symptoms after COVID-19 infection “in almost every organ system, with the vast majority having multisystem involvement,” the authors wrote."

oh hey, remember a couple of years ago during the omicron wave when multisystem inflammatory syndrome was driving a lot of kids to go to the hospital?

[quietus-system]

Vanadyl(IV) sulfate describes a collection of inorganic compounds of vanadium with the formula, VOSO4(H2O)x where 0 ≤ x ≤ 6. The pentahydrate is common. This hygroscopic blue solid is one of the most common sources of vanadium in the laboratory, reflecting its high stability. It features the vanadyl ion, VO2+, which has been called the "most stable diatomic ion".[1]

Vanadyl sulfate is an intermediate in the extraction of vanadium from petroleum residues, one commercial source of vanadium.[2] Synthesis, structure, and reactions

Vanadyl sulfate is most commonly obtained by reduction of vanadium pentoxide with sulfur dioxide:V2O5 + 7 H2O + SO2 + H2SO4 → 2 [V(O)(H2O)4]SO4

From aqueous solution, the salt crystallizes as the pentahydrate, the fifth water is not bound to the metal in the solid. Viewed as a coordination complex, the ion is octahedral, with oxo, four equatorial water ligands, and a monodentate sulfate.[1][3] The trihydrate has also been examined by crystallography.[4] A hexahydrate exists below 13.6 °C (286.8 K).[5] Two polymorphs of anhydrous VOSO4 are known.[6]

The V=O bond distance is 160 pm, about 50 pm shorter than the V–OH2 bonds. In solution, the sulfate ion dissociates rapidly.

Being widely available, vanadyl sulfate is a common precursor to other vanadyl derivatives, such as vanadyl acetylacetonate:[7][V(O)(H2O)4]SO4 + 2 C5H8O2 + Na2CO3 → [V(O)(C5H7O2)2] + Na2SO4 + 5 H2O + CO2

In acidic solution, oxidation of vanadyl sulfate gives yellow-coloured vanadyl(V) derivatives. Reduction, e.g. by zinc, gives vanadium(III) and vanadium(II) derivatives, which are characteristically green and violet, respectively. Occurrence in nature

Like most water-soluble sulfates, vanadyl sulfate is only rarely found in nature. Anhydrous form is pauflerite,[8] a mineral of fumarolic origin. Hydrated forms, also rare, include hexahydrate (stanleyite), pentahydrates (minasragrite, orthominasragrite,[9] and anorthominasragrite) and trihydrate - bobjonesite.[10] Medical research

Vanadyl sulfate is a component of food supplements and experimental drugs. Vanadyl sulfate exhibits insulin-like effects.[11]

Vanadyl sulfate has been extensively studied in the field of diabetes research as a potential means of increasing insulin sensitivity. No evidence indicates that oral vanadium supplementation improves glycaemic control.[12][13] Treatment with vanadium often results in gastrointestinal side-effects, primarily diarrhea.

Vanadyl sulfate is also marketed as a health supplement, often for bodybuilding. Deficiencies in vanadium result in reduced growth in rats.[14] Its effectiveness for bodybuilding has not been proven; some evidence suggests that athletes who take it are merely experiencing a placebo effect.[15]

Are you telling me these ions have a dissociative disorder

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved on our archive

DM me if you have access to the attached study: I'd like to read it and it's paywalled.

Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital discovered that individuals exhibiting a wide range of long COVID symptoms were twice as likely to have SARS-CoV-2 proteins in their blood compared to those without such symptoms.

A new study suggests that a persistent infection may be the cause of long COVID symptoms in some people. Conducted by Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a key institution within the Mass General Brigham healthcare system, the research identified signs of ongoing infection in 43 percent of participants who reported cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal, or neurologic symptoms associated with long COVID. These findings were published today (October 9) in Clinical Microbiology and Infection.

“If we can identify a subset of people who have persistent viral symptoms because of a reservoir of virus in the body, we may be able to treat them with antivirals to alleviate their symptoms,” said lead author Zoe Swank, PhD, a postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Pathology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

Advanced Detection Methods and Study Results The study analyzed 1,569 blood samples collected from 706 people, including 392 participants from the National Institutes of Health-supported Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) Initiative, who had previously tested positive for a COVID infection. With a highly sensitive test they developed, researchers looked for whole and partial proteins from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. They also analyzed data from the participants’ long COVID symptoms, using electronic medical chart information or surveys that were gathered at the same time as the blood samples were taken.

Compared to people who didn’t report long COVID symptoms, those who reported persisting symptoms affecting heart and lung, brain, and musculoskeletal systems many organ systems were approximately twice as likely to have SARS-CoV-2 proteins circulating in their blood. The research team was able to detect the spike protein and other components of the SARS-CoV-2 virus using Simoa, an ultrasensitive test for detecting single molecules. Commonly reported long COVID symptoms included fatigue, brain fog, muscle pain, joint pain, back pain, headache, sleep disturbance, loss of smell or taste, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Specifically, 43% of those with long COVID symptoms affecting three major systems in the body, including cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal, and neurologic systems, tested positive for viral proteins within 1 to 14 months of their positive COVID test. But only 21% of those who didn’t report any long COVID symptoms tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 biomarkers in this same period.

It’s possible that a persistent infection explains some – but not all – of the long COVID sufferers’ symptoms. If this is the case, testing and treatment could aid in identifying patients who may benefit from treatments such as antiviral medications.

Multiple Causes of Long COVID One of the questions raised by the study is why more than half of patients with wide-ranging long COVID symptoms tested negative for persistent viral proteins.

“This finding suggests there is likely more than one cause of long COVID,” said David Walt, PhD, a professor of Pathology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Principal Investigator on the study. “For example, another possible cause of long-COVID symptoms could be that the virus harms the immune system, causing immune dysfunction to continue after the virus is cleared.”

Ongoing Research and Future Directions To better understand whether an ongoing infection is behind some people’s long COVID symptoms, Swank, Walt and other researchers are currently conducting follow-up studies. They’re analyzing blood samples and symptom data in larger groups of patients, including people of wide age ranges and those with compromised immune symptoms. This way, they can also see if some people are more likely to have persistent virus in the body.

“There is still a lot that we don’t know about how this virus affects people,” said David C. Goff, M.D., Ph.D., a senior scientific program director for the RECOVER Observational Consortium Steering Committee and director of the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of NIH. “These types of studies are critical to help investigators better understand the mechanisms underlying long COVID — which will help bring us closer to identifying the right targets for treatment.”

Goff added that these results also support ongoing efforts to study antiviral treatments.

The SARS-CoV-2 blood test developed by Brigham and Women’s researchers is also currently being used in a national study, called RECOVER-VITAL, that is testing whether an antiviral drug helps patients recover from long COVID. The RECOVER-VITAL trial will test the patients’ blood before and after treatment with an antiviral to see if treatment eliminates persistent viral proteins in the blood.

Potential Viral Persistence in Other Diseases The idea that a virus can stay in the body and cause ongoing symptoms months after an infection isn’t unique to COVID. “Other viruses are associated with similar post-acute syndromes,” said Swank. She noted animal studies have found Ebola and Zika proteins in tissues post-infection, and these viruses have also been associated with post-infection illness.

Reference: “Measurement of circulating viral antigens post-SARS-CoV-2 infection in a multicohort study” 9 October 2024, Clinical Microbiology and Infection. DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2024.09.001 www.clinicalmicrobiologyandinfection.com/article/S1198-743X(24)00432-4/abstract (PAYWALLED)