World Mosquito Day August 20,

World Mosquito Day takes place on August 20, 2016. 
World Mosquito Day is a commemoration of British doctor Sir Ronald Ross's discovery in 1897 that female mosquitoes transmit malaria between humans. Ross is responsible for the annual observance, having declared shortly after his discovery that the day should be known as World Mosquito Day in the future. The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine holds Mosquito Day celebrations every year, including events such as parties and exhibitions, a tradition dating back to as early as the 1930s. 

Although a few species are harmless or even useful to humanity, most mosquitos are a nuisance because they consume blood from living vertebrates, including humans. The females of many species of mosquitoes are blood-eating pests. In feeding on blood, some of them transmit extremely harmful human and livestock diseases, such as malaria, yellow fever and filariasis. Some authorities argue accordingly that mosquitoes are the most dangerous animals on Earth.

Various species of mosquitoes are estimated to transmit various types of disease to more than 700 million people annually in Africa, South America, Central America, Mexico, Russia, and much of Asia, with millions of resultant deaths. At least two million people annually die of these diseases, and the morbidity rates are many times higher still.

Methods used to prevent the spread of disease, or to protect individuals in areas where disease is endemic, include: Vector control aimed at mosquito control or eradication; 
Disease prevention, using prophylactic drugs and developing vaccines; Prevention of mosquito bites, with insecticides, nets, and repellents. Since most such diseases are carried by "elderly" female mosquitoes, some scientists have suggested focusing on these to avoid the evolution of resistance. (With material from: http://www.Wikipedia.com & http://www.cute-calendar.com/)

Where is the event?
Worldwide
World

When is the event?
Saturday, the 20th of August 2016 

Baby Skin Care

Baby skincare is primarily focused on preventing diaper rash, but it is still a crucial aspect to consider. People often overlook the need to care for a baby's skin, possibly because it appears flawless. There are few things as soft and supple as baby skin. However, proper baby skincare can make a significant difference in the happiness of the baby.

In addition to diaper rash and heat rash, babies can experience a condition known as "cradle cap." Baby skin is prone to dryness and can even get sunburned easily due to low melanin production. Moreover, due to hormonal changes after birth, babies may develop acne, although their skin is much less oily compared to adults.

Here are some general guidelines and tips for baby skincare:

1. Shield your baby from ultraviolet (UV) exposure right from the start. Keep infants out of direct sunlight during the first few months. If you do go outside, ensure that the baby's skin is covered with protective clothing, a hat, and baby sunglasses. Make this a habit and teach your child the importance of sun protection as they grow older. Sunscreen should not be applied until the baby is 6 months old, but after that, it becomes essential. Be cautious when traveling in cars or going for a walk.

2. When it comes to baby skincare, you can easily find products specifically formulated for babies. Purchase these products and use them as directed. Adult skincare products are not suitable for babies as they can be too harsh. If you notice that your current laundry detergent is irritating your baby's skin, consider switching to a gentler option.

3. Always change diapers as soon as possible. Urine and feces contain bacteria that must be washed away with warm water or baby wipes to prevent infections. Make sure the wipes you use do not contain alcohol, which can dry out a baby's skin. Remember to clean in the folds and ensure the area is dried gently but thoroughly. Diaper rash is highly uncomfortable, so apply an ointment or cream specifically formulated for this common baby skin problem.

4. Regularly moisturize your baby's skin with lotions and creams designed for infants to help retain moisture. Excessive bathing is unnecessary and can actually strip the baby's skin of its natural moisture. Use warm water for bathing, as babies, like adults, prefer it to hot water. If your baby has cradle cap, which appears as scaly and dirty-looking skin on the scalp, gently scrub the area with a soft brush. If the condition persists, consult the baby's physician. Protect your baby from wind and cold, as they can also cause dry skin. If the air in your home is dry, consider using a humidifier to add moisture.

5. Due to a baby's underdeveloped ability to perspire, they struggle to regulate their body temperature efficiently. This can lead to heat rashes. Dress your baby in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing appropriate for the temperature to avoid these rashes, which appear as red patches or pinkish-red bumps.

Establishing good habits early on is crucial, and it's never too soon to develop a proper baby skincare routine!

Type Two Diabetes Symptoms

SYMPTOMS 

Type II diabetes previously known as adult onset diabetes or non-insulin depended diabetes is really a metabolic dysfunction identified by insulin resistance by cells and reduced creation of insulin. This disorder lessens the body?s capacity to control blood sugar levels effectively resulting in an unusually high blood sugar level. Long-term health risks resulting from high blood sugar consist of: high risk of heart attacks, kidney failure, and amputation. Medical diagnosis of diabetes is generally executed by examining blood samples for elevated amounts of blood sugar. Both fasting as well as random glucose readings are reviewed for concussive analysis. There are 2 major examination that are conducted to determine which kind of Diabetes you may be suffering from. Usually the patient has to be in fast for a certain amount of time before the test being conducted. 

Type II diabetes is at first managed by life-style adjustments such as increasing physical activity and dietary modification however as the ailment advances medication and in certain cases a combination of anti-diabetic medication are usually necesary. The reason why a lot of people opt for the first two is because of the effectiveness of consuming a good diet. Patients that have recently developed the symptoms can feel significantly better by avoiding particular foods and increasing their physical exercise. 

Type II diabetes is usually attributable to life-style factors and inherited genes. Life-style factors associated with type II diabetes include things like lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet regime, smoking, unhealthy weight and alcohol dependency. Type II diabetes is also genetically transmissible. Having family members with type II diabetes increases the chance of acquiring type II diabetes very substantially. Though we can't control the second reason, we can certainly take care of the first. This simply means that in case you?ve had family members or close relatives who have suffered from the ailment, you may minimize your odds of being a victim by taking proper care of what you eat, maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking cigarettes and alcohol and most critical working out regularly. 

The signs of type II diabetes are polyuria (a condition characterized by frequent urination), polydipsia (elevated thirst) and polyphagia (increased hunger). In type II diabetes symptoms tend to be subtle and take weeks or perhaps months to develop. High blood sugar levels over a long period of time causes glucose absorption which results in changes in the shape of eye lenses therefore patients encounter blurry eyesight. Blurry vision is one of the most common symptoms of type II diabetes. Other symptoms of diabetes include skin infections or rashes called diabetic dermadromes. A rare possibility more common in type II diabetes is hyperosmolar nonketotic state; it is a diabetic coma with a high fatality rate primarily caused by dehydration and abnormally high blood sugar level.

Contributor:
Author: Lucio Conley

Steps To Lasting Weight Loss

Many individuals who struggle with weight loss often make the mistake of starving themselves by skipping meals. However, it is important to understand that skipping meals is not necessary for losing weight. In fact, depriving your body of proper nutrition can negatively impact your energy levels and hinder your ability to engage in physical activities. A better approach is to consume healthy, nutritious foods that are low in calories. These types of foods provide essential nutrients to your body without causing weight gain. On average, an adult requires around 2,500 calories to sustain themselves. By consuming calories moderately, there is no need to meticulously count them. This article will provide you with the fundamentals of a nutritious diet plan.

1. Avoid emotional eating: Emotional eating is a common cause of weight gain. When individuals experience intense emotions such as anger, depression, stress, boredom, or loneliness, they often turn to food for comfort. It is important to recognize that food cannot be the solution to every problem. Learning to manage emotions without relying on food is crucial, as emotional eating can hinder weight loss progress.

2. Join a reputable weight loss program: It is recommended to enroll in an effective weight loss program that emphasizes a nutritious diet and exercise regimen. A reliable program focuses on consuming fruits, vegetables, lean meats (such as chicken and fish), low-fat dairy products, whole grain cereals, and skinless poultry. It is important to avoid high-fat products like pies, candies, and pastries.

3. Incorporate regular exercise: In addition to following a healthy diet, regular exercise is essential for sustainable weight loss. Starting with light aerobic exercises and gradually progressing to resistance training and cardio is recommended. Even engaging in aerobic exercises alone can contribute to weight loss, as they boost your metabolism, burn fat, increase energy levels, and aid in shedding excess pounds.

Determining the effectiveness of a weight loss program without spending a fortune can be challenging. One approach is to seek feedback from individuals who have participated in the program you are considering. Alternatively, you can consult with your physician or a weight loss expert for their unbiased opinions.

A guide to fertility treatments

Are you seeking natural fertility treatments? In today's fast-paced society, quick fixes are often sought after. However, many individuals prefer to focus on achieving pregnancy through natural means, without relying on medications and pills. Medical treatments can sometimes come with unwanted side effects, which is why turning to natural therapies should be your primary option. Natural fertility treatments are widely accepted and have shown great results globally.

The two most popular natural fertility treatments are changes in diet patterns and fertility cleansing. Fertility diets can be categorized into two main types. For overweight women, losing weight can significantly improve fertility in a natural way. However, there are certain dietary changes that most women, including doctors, believe can enhance fertility regardless of weight.

Natural fertility treatments should include a balanced diet. Consuming natural foods high in complex carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, cereals, and legumes can be beneficial for addressing infertility issues. These diets promote the consumption of specific food items that can work in your favor. Popular fertility diets often advocate for the elimination of unhealthy trans fats while increasing the intake of whole grains. These diets help improve hormonal balance in women and create a healthy body environment that supports natural conception. Carbohydrates, in particular, can impact insulin levels, which in turn affect the hormones necessary for reproduction.

Caffeine is considered one of the most detrimental ingredients in one's diet. It can restrict blood vessels in the uterus, hindering egg fertilization. Milk is a suitable alternative to coffee. There is a common association between caffeine and miscarriage. Caffeine can be found in coffee, energy drinks, chocolates, herbal products, soft drinks, and tea, so it is advisable to avoid these products when trying to conceive. Therefore, a balanced diet can be one of the best fertility treatments.

Fertility cleansing focuses specifically on addressing fertility issues. It helps eliminate toxins and other harmful substances from the body. Another type of natural fertility treatment is self-fertility massage, an advanced therapy that combines massages to support fertility.

Furthermore, there are medical fertility treatments available that have yielded fascinating results. Intrauterine insemination involves placing sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation. In vitro fertilization is another assisted reproductive technology that aims to stimulate the ovaries to produce a larger number of eggs, thereby increasing the chances of successful conception for women.

It's important to explore various options and consult with medical professionals to determine the most suitable approach for your specific fertility needs. Contributors
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A Woman’s Lifetime Guide to Eating Well

Understanding and meeting the nutritional needs of women at different stages of life is essential for their overall health. While the general principles of good nutrition, such as consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein while avoiding excessive fats and sugars, apply to everyone, women undergo hormonal and body changes throughout their lifetimes that require specific attention. We consulted nutrition experts to provide guidance on optimal eating habits for women at each age.

Pre-Conception:

• Aim for a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy weight enhances ovulation and increases the chances of getting pregnant. Being underweight or overweight can disrupt hormonal balance and normal bodily functions.

• Get sufficient folate: Adequate folate levels before pregnancy are vital for fetal development. Leafy greens, citrus fruits, whole grains, and fortified cereals are good sources of folate. Multivitamins designed for women often contain folic acid.

• Increase omega-3 intake: Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA found in cold-water fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines, are believed to improve fertility and contribute to proper brain and eye development in fetuses.

• Ensure iron intake: Sufficient iron is crucial during the pre-menopausal phase to compensate for monthly menstrual losses. Adequate iron stores are necessary for overall health.

• Strengthen bones: Calcium intake should not be delayed until later in life. Starting in the 20s and 30s, women should prioritize calcium consumption to slow down bone loss over time.

Pregnancy:

• Avoid "eating for two": Contrary to popular belief, doubling the calorie intake is not necessary during pregnancy. A slight increase in calories is sufficient, but the focus should be on a well-balanced diet encompassing all food groups.

• Consult a doctor for vegetarian/vegan diets: Vegetarians and vegans can have healthy pregnancies but should consult with healthcare providers to ensure they meet all nutritional requirements.

• Obtain necessary vitamins: Iron remains a concern during pregnancy due to increased blood volume. Sufficient vitamin C intake helps improve iron absorption.

Menopause:

• Recognize symptoms: Menopausal symptoms may appear up to 10 years before menopause itself. Dietary changes can help alleviate symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

• Include phytoestrogens: Foods rich in phytoestrogens, plant-based substances similar to estrogen, can provide relief from menopausal symptoms. Examples include tofu, soy-based dairy alternatives, and flax seeds.

• Limit hot flash triggers: Certain substances like caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and large meals can trigger hot flashes. Reducing their consumption may help manage symptoms.

• Increase vitamin B intake: Vitamin B acts as a natural mood stabilizer. Dark leafy greens and lean poultry are excellent sources of vitamin B. Turkey, containing tryptophan, can also aid in easing insomnia.

Post-Menopause:

• Monitor weight gain: Weight control becomes vital in the post-childbearing years, as menopause often leads to weight gain even with healthy eating and exercise habits. Minimizing sugar intake can help manage belly fat. Mindful eating is worth considering.

• Protect bone health: Adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium is crucial. Many women have low vitamin D levels, which affects mood, muscle strength, and may be associated with conditions like breast cancer and heart disease.

While sun exposure contributes to vitamin D synthesis, supplements and fortified foods can assist in meeting requirements.

Is it Depression, or is it Perimenopause?

Are you currently experiencing depression and emotional instability between the ages of 39 and 53? Are you feeling unlike yourself, perhaps less energetic or more serious, as noted by your family and friends? Well, it might not be depression you're facing but rather perimenopause.

Perimenopause refers to the 2 to 10 years leading up to the cessation of menstruation and presents 40- to 50-year-old women with significant hormonal changes akin to those experienced during puberty. These hormonal fluctuations not only affect a woman's physical well-being but also have a profound impact on her emotional state.

Many women mistakenly believe that menopause-related concerns only arise in their late 40s or early 50s. Even those who are aware of "perimenopause" often associate it solely with symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, menstrual irregularities, and occasional mood swings. However, the hormonal changes during perimenopause can also lead to depression, anxiety, and a decrease in overall life satisfaction. Additionally, these challenges and hormonal events can cause distress not just for women but also for their loved ones.

How can women determine if their depressive symptoms are a result of perimenopause or other causes? During Stage I of perimenopause, known as Perimenopausal Initiation, and Stage II, referred to as Emotional Disruption, hormonal changes are likely to be the cause or a contributing factor if the following signs are observed:

• Depressive symptoms intensify in the two weeks prior to menstruation and improve once the period starts.
• The woman's tolerance for difficult situations decreases compared to her past experiences.
• Slight changes occur in her menstrual cycle, such as it becoming slightly shorter or longer by a day or two, or the flow being slightly heavier or lighter.
• The woman is within the age range of late 30s to early-mid 50s.

Another indication of depression related to hormonal changes is the presence of accompanying anxiety. Hormonally precipitated depression often involves both depression and anxiety, whereas non-hormonal depression typically lacks the anxiety component.

In Stage III of perimenopause, known as Turbulence, it becomes easier to establish a connection between hormonal changes and depression. During this stage, there are noticeable fluctuations between depressive and anxious moods. These mood swings have a more intense and "acute" quality compared to non-hormonal depression. Additionally, sleep disturbances, insomnia, and distressing dreams are more likely to accompany depressive symptoms. While non-hormonal depression can cause insomnia, it typically results in excessive sleepiness.

When treating moderate to severe depression, regardless of its cause, the most effective and safest approach involves the use of antidepressant medications. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are considered safer than synthetic or animal hormone replacement therapies and can help alleviate other perimenopausal symptoms like insomnia and vasomotor events (hot flashes and night sweats).

Another option is the use of bioidentical hormones, which are natural, plant-based hormones that assist in balancing shifting hormones. These hormones are highly regarded for their safety and have been shown in studies to reduce various perimenopausal symptoms, including depression.

Additionally, incorporating soy isoflavones into one's diet or taking them as supplements can be beneficial. Soy contains "phytoestrogens," compounds that possess mild estrogenic and anti-estrogenic properties. This means that they can bind to estrogen receptors to regulate estrogen levels, either blocking excess estrogen or providing support when levels are low. This helps to alleviate symptoms, including depression, associated with the perimenopausal transition.

When depressive symptoms are mild or transient, individual women can decide whether they require any of these treatment strategies.

New Apple Ingredient Discovery Keeps Muscles Strong

Researchers have discovered a natural compound in apple peels called Ursolic Acid that shows promise in preventing muscle weakening associated with illness and aging. The findings, published in the June issue of Cell Metabolism, present Ursolic Acid as a potential nutritional therapy for this prevalent and debilitating condition.

Muscle wasting is a common occurrence during illness and aging, leading to prolonged hospital stays, delayed recoveries, and sometimes preventing individuals from returning home. Currently, there is limited understanding of muscle wasting, and no specific medicine exists to address it.

The research team investigated the gene activity in muscles under conditions that promote muscle weakening. They identified 63 genes that change during fasting in both humans and mice, as well as an additional 29 genes that show altered expression in the muscles of fasting individuals and those with spinal cord injuries. By comparing the gene expression signatures to cells treated with over 1300 bio-active small molecules, Ursolic Acid emerged as a compound with potential effects to counteract muscle atrophy.

Ursolic Acid is a fascinating natural compound and a component of apple peels, commonly found in the everyday diet. As the saying goes, "an apple a day keeps the doctor away." In experiments conducted on fasted laboratory subjects, Ursolic Acid demonstrated its ability to protect against muscle weakening, as predicted. When added to the diet of normal subjects over several weeks, it resulted in muscle growth. These effects were attributed to improved insulin signaling in the muscles and corrections in the gene signatures associated with muscle atrophy.

Furthermore, the subjects receiving Ursolic Acid became leaner and showed lower levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides in their blood. These findings suggest that Ursolic Acid may contribute to the overall benefits of a healthy diet.

The researchers emphasized the importance of a balanced diet, noting that individuals who consume junk food may not obtain sufficient amounts of Ursolic Acid. While it remains unclear whether these findings will apply directly to human patients, the next step is to determine if Ursolic Acid can provide benefits in a clinical setting. Additionally, it is yet to be determined whether the levels of Ursolic Acid typically consumed through a normal diet would be sufficient for the desired effects.