According to fresh data issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) , over 1 crore people worldwide suffer from a mental health illness, with women making up over 53% of those affected.

According to the WHO’s World Mental Health Today and Mental Health Atlas 2024 reports, mental health disorders like depression and anxiety have a significant negative impact on people’s lives and the economy. They also advocated for increased funding and action to expand services that support and enhance people’s mental health.

According to WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, “transforming mental health services is one of the most pressing public health challenges.”

“Investing in mental health is an investment that no nation can afford to overlook because it benefits individuals, communities, and economies. It is the duty of every government and leader to take swift action and guarantee that mental health care is regarded as a fundamental human right rather than a privilege, he continued.

According to the reports, the most prevalent mental health conditions in both men and women are anxiety and depressive disorders. But altogether, women are disproportionately affected.

In total, 581.5 million women and 513.9 million men suffer from a mental illness.

Pregnant women and women in the year following childbirth were shown to have a high prevalence of mental problems, which frequently had detrimental effects on both mothers and infants. Depression affects over 10% of pregnant women and women in the year following childbirth worldwide. This number is thought to be significantly greater in low- and medium-income countries (LMICs), according to the reports.

The survey also revealed that suicide is still a terrible consequence, with an anticipated 727,000 deaths in 2021 alone. It is a major cause of death for youth in all nations and socioeconomic backgrounds, and there hasn’t been enough success in lowering the suicide mortality rate.

Only 12% of the one-third reduction in suicide rates that is intended to be accomplished by 2030 will really be accomplished.

Furthermore, mental health illnesses have a tremendous economic cost because they cause lost productivity. According to the WHO report, anxiety and depression alone cost the world economy $1 trillion annually.

According to the 2024 Mental Health Atlas, just 45% of nations assessed their laws to be fully compliant with international human rights norms, and fewer nations have enacted or implemented rights-based mental health legislation.

The study also found that funding for mental health has stagnated, which is troubling. Since 2017, the median government spending on mental health has remained at just 2% of total health budgets, with low-income nations paying as little as $0.

The World Health Organization urged governments to step up their efforts immediately to improve mental health systems around the globe.

This entails maintaining investment in the mental health workforce, expanding community-based, person-centered treatment, reforming laws and policies to protect human rights, and equitably providing mental health services.

A wholesome snack valued for its health advantages, Makhana—also referred to as fox nuts or lotus seeds—has grown in popularity. Makhana, which is low in calories and abundant in dietary fiber, is frequently referred to as a superfood.

For ages, these crunchy white seeds—which are derived from the aquatic plant Euryale Fox—have been a traditional staple in many civilizations. Currently, their remarkable nutritional worth is acknowledged around.

Makhana, which is high in vital minerals and antioxidants, promotes heart health, facilitates digestion, and helps control weight. Because of its adaptability, it may be eaten roasted, in sweets, or just as a nutritious snack, making it a convenient and healthful option.

Additionally, makhana has a low glycemic index, which aids in the natural regulation of blood sugar levels, and is gluten-free, making it perfect for people with gluten intolerance.

Makhana is a nutrient-dense food that contains a variety of proteins, carbs, flavonoids, polyphenols, and vital minerals. Especially noteworthy:

• Packed with antioxidants: Flavonoids such as kaempferol and other polyphenols have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Low in calories: Makhana is a filling snack that is ideal for weight control because it doesn’t contain too many calories.
• Rich in dietary fiber: Fiber makes you feel fuller longer, assists with digestion, and speeds up your metabolism.
• Having a low glycemic index makes it a great meal option for controlling blood sugar levels.

The growing popularity of makhana as a heart-healthy and metabolism-friendly snack can be attributed to these qualities taken together.

Benefits of Makhana consumption for health

Aids in heart health
Heart disease-causing oxidative stress and inflammation are lessened by makhana’s antioxidants. Frequent consumption may increase HDL and decrease LDL, improving cardiovascular health and lowering the risk of hypertension and atherosclerosis.

Helps with weight control
Makhana’s high fiber content and low calorie content help suppress hunger and encourage fullness, which can lower daily caloric intake. When incorporated into a balanced diet, this satiating effect promotes an improvement in metabolic rate and can help with successful weight loss.

Helps control blood sugar levels
Makhana is a good snack choice for diabetics because of its low glycemic index, which raises blood sugar levels gradually. It can be eaten as roasted seeds in between meals or, in moderation, added to nutritious desserts with natural sweeteners like dates or jaggery.

Supports the health of the digestive system
Makhana’s high fiber content helps maintain a healthy digestive system by promoting regular bowel movements and warding off constipation. It can improve metabolism in general and intestinal health in particular.

Also read: Even nutritious processed foods might not be beneficial to your weight loss efforts

Who should refrain from consuming makhana?
Even though makhana (fox nuts) provide many health advantages, some people should use caution when taking them. Certain medical issues may necessitate restricting intake in order to prevent negative effects, according to reliable sources.

People who are at risk for kidney stones
Oxalates, which are found in makhana, have the potential to cause kidney stones. Because oxalates may decrease the absorption of calcium and magnesium, people who have a history of kidney stones or are predisposed to them should limit their intake to prevent elevated risks.

People who are prone to allergies
Allergy reactions in those who are sensitive to nuts and seeds can range from minor rashes and itching to severe anaphylaxis. If you have any allergies, stay away from makhana or introduce it carefully.

People who suffer from intestinal ailments
High-fiber foods like makhana may be difficult for people with digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to digest, which could exacerbate symptoms like gas, bloating, or pain in the abdomen.

People who have excessive levels of uric acid or gout
Makhana has moderate amounts of purines, which are substances that can raise the body’s uric acid levels. It is advised that people who are prone to gout or hyperuricemia restrict their intake of purines, which includes consuming less makhana.

Individuals using blood thinners
Excessive consumption of makhana may interfere with blood-thinning drugs like warfarin because of its vitamin K concentration, which is involved in blood coagulation. Before taking such medications on a regular basis, people should speak with their healthcare practitioners.

Adding makhana to your diet: A guide

Makhana is adaptable and has several ways to be enjoyed:

Snack with a hint of salt and spices: A crispy, nutritious snack is made from lightly toasted makhana.

Desserts and puddings: Makhana can be made into a healthy dessert choice by adding natural sweeteners like dates or jaggery to it.

When used as a garnish, roasted makhana adds texture and nutrients to soups and salads.

When making stir-fries and curries: For an added crunch and nutritional boost, it can be used to a variety of recipes.

Researchers in the United States are developing a non-invasive method that uses ultrasound to precisely and less harmfully administer medications anyplace in the body.

A group of researchers from Stanford University is creating a novel method that encapsulates medications in nanoparticles and releases them at their designated locations using ultrasound.

The scientists demonstrated in rats that their method can administer painkillers to particular nerves in limbs and ketamine to particular brain regions in a study that was published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology. They discovered that nanoparticles are safer, more stable, and simpler to make using a novel sucrose formulation.

“It turns out that all you need to make this work is a little bit of sugar,” said Raag Airan, an assistant professor of radiology at Stanford Medicine.

The researchers discovered that the nanoparticles were responsive to ultrasound stimulation yet comparatively stable in the body when they contained a 5% sucrose solution.

This implies that the majority of the medication is only released where it is required, even if the nanoparticles are injected into the bloodstream and move throughout the body. When a narrow ultrasonic beam is administered externally, it locates the target and releases the medication.

Numerous medications could become safer and more effective with the implementation of such a system.

“We can minimize the off-target effects and maximize the therapeutic effect,” Airan stated.

At first, the nanoparticles were made up of a liquid core of rare chemical compounds encased in a polymer shell. The scientists attempted to modify the liquid core’s response to ultrasound by adding a range of common materials, such as salts and polymers, but it was unsuccessful.

They tried sugar at last. After experimenting with various sugar types and concentrations, the researchers discovered that adding 5% sucrose to the liquid core produced the optimum balance between stability at body temperature and ultrasonic sensitivity.

Rats that received an injection of free, unencapsulated ketamine and those that received ketamine encapsulated in nanoparticles with 5% sucrose were used to test the drug delivery system.

The nanoparticles showed tailored drug release when the researchers used ultrasound to target a specific area of the brain. This area received around three times as much medication as other areas of the brain.

According to the researchers, if the mechanism functions in humans, medical professionals could be able to prevent ketamine’s dissociative effects while separating the drug’s emotional effects, such as treating depression.

Living with diabetes means more than just checking your blood sugar — it’s about keeping it in a healthy range every day.

It also requires being mindful of when and what you eat, and knowing what needs to be done in case the blood sugar levels fall.

Over time, these constant challenges can lead to a feeling of diabetes distress.

With over 101 million people living with diabetes in India, diabetes distress or burnout typically affects 18% of those living with this condition.

For some, it manifests as irritability, frustration, or emotional fatigue. For others, it’s a quiet retreat—missing glucose checks, skipping medications, or avoiding appointments. Diabetes distress usually stems from the relentless demands of daily management. The emotional toll reflects that constant vigilance can take.

By acknowledging the mental and emotional effects of diabetes, individuals can begin to find a sense of balance, rebuild confidence, and reconnect with their support systems.

Technology can play an important role in easing the burden of diabetes and offer much-needed support in managing this distress.

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices provide real-time blood glucose alarms that let you know and take informed decisions the moment your glucose is too low or too high. It also allows you to see patterns and trends and helps you understand how food, activity, and insulin affect glucose levels.

 Dr Manjunath P R, Associate Professor, Consultant, Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, Bangalore, said, “Managing diabetes requires a holistic approach that nurtures both body and mind. Effective diabetes management is about striking a balance. A well-rounded routine includes nutritious eating, regular physical activity, and consistent glucose monitoring. Tools like Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices play a vital role in this journey. By offering real-time insights into glucose trends, CGMs help individuals understand how specific foods, activities, or stressors affect their levels. This immediate feedback empowers people to make informed decisions, reduces uncertainty, and can significantly ease the emotional burden of diabetes.”

Diabetes distress often eases when the experience feels less isolating—and that’s where the power of family and community comes in. Through connected care, people with diabetes can share the responsibility of managing their health with family members.

It gives people the confidence to take charge of their health and have more meaningful conversations with healthcare providers.

Dr. Vivek Iyer, Head, Medical Affairs, South Asia, Abbott, said, “To ease the burden of diabetes distress and prevent burnout, Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices can be transformative. Today’s CGMs go beyond tracking—they serve as comprehensive digital health platforms that foster connection. By allowing individuals to share real-time glucose data with loved ones and healthcare providers, CGMs help create a supportive, informed care network.”

Here are a few strategies backed by technology and research that can help manage the diabetes journey:

1. Use Technology To Lighten The Load: Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices are game-changers for people with diabetes — offering real-time insights that help reduce stress and make daily management easier. These painless, prick free devices track your blood sugar levels every minute and generate visual trends, enabling you to act before your glucose levels become too high or too low.

2. Find balance through routine and joy: Burnout often stems from trying to do everything perfectly. Let go of perfection and  find your own balance.. Identifying the activities and health goals that matter most to you can make managing diabetes—and your overall well-being—feel more achievable and sustainable.

3. Stay active and focus on mindful eating: A mix of moderate intensity aerobic and resistance-based exercises like walking, yoga, swimming, dancing, weight training etc., for approximately 150 minutes per week, is often recommended for people with diabetes. Movement improves insulin sensitivity and releases endorphins that help reduce stress. Your meals matter too. Choose balanced diets and practice mindful eating.

Finally, make time for things you enjoy- whether it is spending time with someone, or pursuing a hobby. Focus on what matters the most – you can create a healthier and happier life.

A group of American researchers demonstrated that using the patient’s voice, artificial intelligence (AI) can assist in the early detection of laryngeal or voice box cancer.

Voice box cancer is a significant public health concern. An estimated 1.1 million instances of laryngeal cancer were reported globally in 2021, and the disease claimed the lives of about 100,000 people.

Human papillomavirus infection, alcohol misuse, and smoking are risk factors.

Depending on the tumor’s stage and location within the voice box, the prognosis for laryngeal cancer varies from 35% to 78% survival over five years when treated.

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have now demonstrated that artificial intelligence (AI) can identify anomalies of the vocal folds from speech sounds.

Similar to nodules or polyps, these “vocal fold lesions” can be benign, but they can potentially be the first signs of laryngeal cancer.

The scientists stated in the paper published in the journal Frontiers in Digital Health that these proof-of-principle results pave the way for a new use of AI, specifically the recognition of the early warning phases of laryngeal cancer from voice recordings.

Dr. Phillip Jenkins, a postdoctoral researcher in clinical informatics at Oregon, stated, “Here we demonstrate that we could use vocal biomarkers to distinguish voices from patients with vocal fold lesions from those without such lesions.”

Using 12,523 voice recordings of 306 people from North America, Jenkins and his team examined differences in tone, pitch, loudness, and clarity.

A small percentage came from individuals who had unilateral vocal fold paralysis, spasmodic dysphonia, benign vocal fold lesions, or known laryngeal malignancy.

The mean fundamental frequency (pitch), jitter (pitch variation within speech), shimmer (amplitude variation), and the harmonic-to-noise ratio (a measure of the relationship between harmonic and noise components of speech) were among the acoustic characteristics of the voice that the researchers concentrated on.

They discovered significant variations in the fundamental frequency and harmonic-to-noise ratio among men with laryngeal cancer, individuals with benign vocal fold lesions, and men without any voice disorders.

Although a larger dataset would show such disparities, they were unable to uncover any meaningful acoustic patterns among women.

According to the researchers, variation in the harmonic-to-noise ratio can be useful for early detection of laryngeal cancer, at least in men, and for tracking the clinical progression of vocal fold lesions.

Taxpayers now have additional time to choose between the old and new tax regimes as the income tax return (ITR) filing date has been moved to September 15.

By simply choosing the appropriate option on the ITR-1 or ITR-2 form, salaried workers or retirees without company income can alter their tax regime at any point before submitting their annual ITR.

The rules are more stringent when it comes to professional or commercial revenue. You can only go back to the previous tax system once in your lifetime, and once you do, the option is no longer available. You must submit Form 10-IEA for this modification prior to the filing date. If you fail to file this form, the new tax regime will be implemented by default.

If you are having trouble deciding which regime to employ, you should know that only the previous tax system offered deductions under Sections 80C to 80U, home loan interest under Section 24(b), Leave Travel Allowance (LTA), and House Rent Allowance (HRA).

Although there are fewer deductions under the new regime, people with taxable incomes up to Rs 12 lakh are eligible for a complete tax refund. If your taxable income is more than Rs 12 lakh, your entire income will be taxed in slabs.

The initial Rs 4 lakh is tax-free, followed by Rs 4 lakh to Rs 8 lakh at 5%, Rs 8 lakh to Rs 12 lakh at 10%, Rs 12 lakh to Rs 16 lakh at 15%, and so on.

Crucially, the expanded 80C basket that is well-liked by salaried taxpayers is not permitted under the new regime; instead, only restricted benefits are permitted under Sections 80CCD(2) and 80CCH(2).

Take your income, pay structure, and tax-saving investments into account before deciding on a regime. The new system might help salaried people with low deductions. The previous system can be more advantageous if you are able to claim significant deductions under Sections 80C, 80D, HRA, or housing loan interest.

Additionally, keep in mind that under the new regime, any losses you may have from capital gains, company income, or real estate cannot be carried forward. Before making a decision, think about how this can impact future tax obligations.

According to tax experts, the previous tax system will generally only benefit taxpayers who qualify for a significant house rent allowance (HRA) or the Rs 2 lakh deduction for home loan interest under Section 24(b). The majority of other deductions are unlikely to support sticking with the previous administration.

Visionary leadership is more important than ever in a nation where higher education is changing quickly. The dynamic vice chancellors are among the changemakers influencing this shift.

In India, there aren’t many women in this esteemed position. These women are not only shattering glass ceilings but also paving the road for others to follow. Her leadership demonstrates a potent fusion of intelligence, integrity, and innovation, drawing from her decades of experience in academics, research, and institutional governance.

We examine their path in further detail in this blog, from their early scholarly endeavors to their current role as the impetus behind inclusive legislation, high-quality education, and international partnerships. Their narrative is about changing the course of Indian education, one choice at a time, rather than merely focusing on personal achievement.

Here are five notable and influential female vice chancellors in India, along with some background on their careers, even if it’s hard to choose the top five.

1. Inderjit Kaur, Vice-Chancellor in North India, leading Punjabi University, Patiala

Kaur Inderjit Sandhu led Punjabi University in Patiala and was the first female vice chancellor in North India.

She also called Inderjit Kaur, was an Indian administrator and educationist who lived from 1 September 1923 to 27 January 2022. She served as the Chairperson of the Staff Selection Commission in New Delhi from 1980 to 1985 and as the third Vice-Chancellor of Punjabi University in Patiala from 1975 to 1977. The first woman to lead both of these organizations was Sandhu.

She completed her elementary schooling at Victoria Girls School in Patiala before traveling to Lahore to enroll in RB Sohan Lal Training College’s Bachelor of Teaching program. She then graduated with an MA in Philosophy from Government College in Lahore and finished the inaugural cohort of Mahindra College’s Punjabi language master’s program in Patiala.

In 1946, she began teaching at Patiala’s Government College for Women.She was on the governing council of Khalsa College in Amritsar from 1950 to 1953 in addition to being a professor of education at the State College of Education. From 1958 to 1967, she was a teacher at Basic Training College in Chandigarh, where she also rose to the position of vice-principal.

In Patiala and later Amritsar, she was also the principal of the Government College for Women. She was appointed vice-chancellor of Punjabi University in Patiala in 1975, a position she held for three years.

In 1980, Inderjit Kaur was elected to a five-year term as the Chairperson of the Staff Selection Commission in New Delhi.

In its Dhian Punjab Dian (Daughters of Punjab) series, Doordarshan Jalandhar produced a Punjabi documentary about her.She was the subject of a feature story in several Indian languages by the BBC. On September 1, 2021, the book “Inderjit Kaur Sandhu: An Inspiring Journey” was published. There are thirty papers in Punjabi and English in the bilingual festschrift.

2. Najma Akhtar, Vice Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia

From 2019 to 2023, Najma Akhtar held the position of Vice Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia. She was notable for being JMI’s first female employee in this role. Additionally, she received the Padma Shri in 2022.

She is an academic administrator and scholar from India. She was Jamia Millia Islamia’s vice chancellor from April 12, 2019, to November 12, 2023. In addition, she is the first female employee at JMI. In 2022, the Indian government bestowed upon her the Padma Shri.

In 1953, Akhtar was born.She received a National Science Talent Scholarship and a gold medal while attending Aligarh Muslim University. She graduated from Kurukshetra University with a doctorate in education.

For fifteen years, Akhtar oversaw courses for senior executives from 130 nations while employed at the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration.

President Ram Nath Kovind gave the Ministry of Human Resource Development permission in April 2019 to name Akhtar vice chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia for a five-year term or until he is 70, whichever comes first. Akhtar served in that capacity until November 12, 2023.

She stated, “I was definitely against the glass ceiling, but my aim was not to break it,” in reference to her selection as the first female vice chancellor in the university’s 99-year history. If you have the same training and experience, why is it there at all?

3. Renu Vig, Vice Chancellor of the Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Chandigarh

Dr. Renu Vig presently serves as the Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University’s vice chancellor in Chandigarh. She has a solid engineering background and has worked on a number of research projects.

The 14th vice-chancellor of Punjab University is Dr. Renu Vig, a professor and scholar from India.She is Punjab University’s first female vice-chancellor. Renu Vig earned a Gold Medal for achieving the top rank across all departments at Punjab Engineering College, where she earned her B.E. in 1985. In 1997, she obtained her Ph.D. with a focus on neural networks and artificial intelligence.

The Institution of Engineers (India) presented her with the “Eminent Engineer Award” in 2018.

At Punjab Engineering College, Vig started out as a teaching assistant before moving on to become a lecturer. From 1997 until 2003, she served as an assistant professor at the Technical Teachers’ Training Institute, which is now known as NITTTR.

In 2003, she began working as a reader at Punjab University’s University Institute of Engineering and Technology (UIET), and in 2005, she was promoted to professor.

4. Anuradha Lohia, Vice-Chancellor of Presidency University, Kolkata

In India, Anuradha Lohia is a pioneer in scientific education and research. She has made groundbreaking discoveries in the field of infectious illnesses and is a distinguished molecular scientist. She was honored with the 2001 National Award for Young Woman Bioscientist. In Hyderabad, India, Anuradha was named the first CEO of the Indo-British company Wellcome Trust/DBT India Alliance.

After that, she spent nine years as the vice-chancellor of Presidency University in Kolkata. At the moment, she serves as the Chairperson of Kolkata’s Manovikas Kendra.

She attended Calcutta’s Modern High School for Girls. She earned her M.Sc. in physiology from Rajabazar Science College at the University of Calcutta and her B.Sc. (Hons) in physiology from Presidency College. Her doctoral research in biochemistry from the Indian Institute of Chemical Biology focused on Vibrio cholerae cell surface studies.

In addition, she received the UNESCO Molecular and Cell Biology network grant, the Stree Shakti award, the National Award for Young Woman Bioscientist (2001, Government of India), and the Rockefeller Foundation Biotechnology Career Fellowship (1993–1997).In 2025, she received The Telgraph t2, Kolkata’s SHE award for Education.

5. Uma Kanjilal,Vice Chancellor of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)

Uma Kanjilal was named the first female vice chancellor of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), forty years after the institution’s founding.

She has a wealth of academic leadership and digital innovation experience, having worked in open and distance learning for more than 36 years. Throughout her career at IGNOU, she has played important roles in the development of digital infrastructure and online education.

Ms. Kanjilal, who has been a professor of library and information science since 2003, is well-known throughout the country for her proficiency in developing multimedia courseware, e-learning, and ICT in libraries.

She presently serves as the National Coordinator for the Ministry of Education’s main digital education programs, SWAYAM and SWAYAM PRABHA.

Director of the Center for Online Education (2019–2021), Director of the Inter-University Consortium for Technology Enabled Flexible Education (2016–2019), Director of the Advanced Center for Informatics and Innovative Learning (2012–2013), Director of the School of Social Sciences (2007–2010), and University Librarian (2004–2006) are just a few of the leadership positions that Ms. Kanjilal has held at the university.

Prior to her present position as active vice chancellor, she was the university’s pro vice chancellor from March 2021 until July 2024.

According to a study, ultra-processed foods like your favorite chips, cookies, and soda might cause addictive behaviors that match the same clinical criteria used to identify substance-use disorders.

Researchers contended that ignoring this in diagnostic systems is a risky mistake that could have serious repercussions for public health around the world.

Lead author Ashley Gearhardt, a psychology professor at the University of Michigan in the United States, stated that “people aren’t becoming addicted to apples or brown rice.”

“They’re struggling with industrial products specifically engineered to hit the brain like a drug — rapidly, intensely and repeatedly,” Gearhardt stated.

The study synthesized data from around 300 investigations conducted in 36 different nations and was published in the journal Nature Medicine. Their research showed how highly processed meals can interfere with the brain’s reward system, leading to cravings, a loss of self-control, and continued usage in spite of negative effects—all of which are hallmarks of addiction.

Additionally, neuroimaging research shows that compulsive eaters exhibit brain circuit abnormalities that are remarkably comparable to those observed in cocaine and alcohol addiction.

Remarkably, drugs that lessen ultra-processed food cravings have also been shown to lessen compulsive drug usage, highlighting the similar neural processes.

Crucially, Gearhardt and colleagues emphasized that although disorders such as coffee consumption disorder and nitrous oxide poisoning have been added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, despite widespread and increasing support, addiction to ultra-processed foods has not even been tentatively recognized as a problem that warrants more research. The guidebook uses scant data to categorize mental illnesses.

“The bar for recognising addiction has been far lower in other cases,” said co-author Erica LaFata, assistant research professor at Drexel University’s Center for Weight, Eating, and Lifestyle Science. “It’s time ultra-processed food addiction was held to the same scientific standard.”

The study urges legislators, doctors, and public health experts to act quickly to fund research, provide clinical tools for diagnosis and treatment, and formally recognize ultra-processed food addiction. They also called for the implementation of preventative measures akin to those employed in tobacco control, such as public education campaigns, better labeling, and limitations on marketing to minors.

Gearhardt clarified, “We’re not saying all food is addictive,” We’re arguing that a lot of highly processed meals are made to be addicted. And if we don’t acknowledge that, we’ll keep failing those who are most impacted, particularly children.“

Beetroot juice may help lower blood pressure in older persons.  According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Exeter in the UK, older people’s nitrate-rich beetroot juice may lower blood pressure because of certain alterations in their oral flora.

Nitrate is a naturally occurring component of a diet high in vegetables and is essential to the body.

The study found that older persons’ blood pressure dropped after consuming a concentrated beetroot juice “shot” twice daily for two weeks. The results published in the journal Free Radical Biology and Medicine, however, showed that the benefit was not seen in the younger group.

According to this study, eating foods high in nitrates changes the oral microbiota in a way that may reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure in elderly individuals. This opens the door for more extensive research to examine how biological sex and lifestyle factors affect how individuals react to dietary nitrate supplementation, according to Professor Andy Jones of the University of Exeter.

39 persons under 30 and 36 adults in their 60s and 70s were recruited for the study. They were given regular doses of beetroot juice, which is rich in nitrate, for two weeks, and a placebo, which is a form of the juice without nitrate.

After consuming the nitrate-rich juice, the older age group’s levels of the potentially dangerous oral bacteria Prevotella significantly decreased, while the growth of bacteria known to be beneficial to health, like Neisseria, increased.

An imbalance between good and bad oral bacteria can reduce the amount of nitrate—which is abundant in diets high in vegetables—that is converted to nitric oxide. According to the experts, nitric oxide is essential for the blood vessels’ normal operation and, consequently, for controlling blood pressure.

Professor Anni Vanhatalo of the varsity added, “The good news is that if you don’t like beetroot, there are many nitrate-rich alternatives like spinach, rocket, fennel, celery, and kale.“