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Are Noni Fruit Juice Actually Beneficial?

Are Noni Fruit Juice Actually Beneficial?   Noni fruit Scientific name: Morinda citrifolia Lin Family: Rubiaceae Local names: Matasuea, Yor Ban, Yae Yai The Noni fruit found in Thailand is of the same genus and species as the Tahitian Noni, which is sold worldwide. They are considered to be the same variety, though there might be some differences, similar to the variations between the Golden Pillow and Long Stem durians. It's impossible to say which variety is better.   Noni fruit has nutritional benefits, as it is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium. Moreover, it has antioxidant properties that help delay cell aging and fight cancer.   Can Noni Fruits Treat Various Diseases? There is not an abundance of research on Noni fruit. The most research has been conducted by medical faculties in Tahiti. However, these studies have not been widely accepted in the medical field, as they could be biased due to the promotion of the country's business interests. To gain acceptance, more well-designed studies must be published in reputable medical journals and replicated with consistent results.   Some websites report individual cases of Noni consumption leading to reduced high blood pressure, increased energy levels, reduced inflammation, and assistance in treating colds, pain relief, cancer, AIDS, and lowering blood fat levels. These reports come from some doctors or nutritionists but are not widely accepted in the medical field because there is no conclusive research yet. However, these websites often promote Noni products for business purposes.   Existing Research A search of medical libraries and Medline search found only about 20 reports worldwide, with three interesting findings: Noni fruit contains Polysaccharide (noni PPt), which has anti-cancer effects on Lewis lung carcinoma and extends the life of mice with this cancer. However, there is no research on humans yet (Phytother Res 1999). Noni may help prevent cancer due to its antioxidant properties by reducing DMBA-DNA adduct formation and other mechanisms. However, there are no human reports on Noni consumption leading to lower cancer rates or treating cancer, unlike garlic, which has epidemiological reports indicating lower rates of stomach, esophageal, and colon cancer in garlic consumers. Garlic extracts also inhibit various types of cancer cells.   Precautions Noni juice is high in potassium (about 56 meq/L), similar to orange juice and tomato juice. There are reports of people with chronic kidney disease experiencing dangerously high potassium levels after consuming Noni juice, so they should avoid it. In Thailand, there are reports of patients recovering from malaria experiencing less nausea and vomiting after treatment with dried Noni tea compared to metoclopramide and Chinese tea. However, this is not the same as consuming fresh Noni juice.   In conclusion, Noni fruit is a beneficial fruit rich in Vitamin C, potassium, Vitamin A, and antioxidants, which help delay aging and fight cancer. In principle, it should have some cancer prevention properties, similar to eating a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Noni juice has shown to inhibit Lewis lung carcinoma cells, but this type of cancer is rare. Consuming Noni juice is not harmful, except for patients with kidney diseases. Thai Noni may not differ significantly from foreign Noni varieties, as they are the same species.   With best wishes from Viphavadi Hospital. Source: Thaiclinic.com

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Anthrax Disease

Anthrax Disease Anthrax, which is currently being used in biological warfare, is not as frightening as it seems. It is not difficult to treat, and it has been present in our country for a long time, although it is not widespread.   Causes Anthrax was proven by Robert Koch in 1887 to be caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis, which is rod-shaped. The bacteria can produce spores in liquid food. The spores are round, transparent chambers within the cell. Spores can survive in soil for 20-25 years. In dry conditions, they can withstand temperatures of 140°C (284°F) for 1-3 hours. However, if there is moisture, such as in boiling water, they can only withstand 100°C (212°F), which is the boiling point of water, for only 5-30 minutes. This bacterium is found in soil and is immobile. It prefers to stick together in long chains. Outbreaks often occur in animals, and the infection can be severe enough to cause death. However, it can also be transmitted to humans.   Transmission The common modes of transmission in humans include skin infections, through the digestive system, and in the lungs. Anthrax bacteria can be found worldwide, including the Americas, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.   Anthrax affects nearly all species of animals, but it is more commonly found in warm-blooded mammals, such as cows, buffalo, horses, deer, elk, goats, sheep, carnivorous animals, and some bird species. The disease can be transmitted to humans when they come into contact with infected animals, which carry the bacteria in various parts of their body, including fur, flesh, blood, and bones. Humans can contract the infection through skin wounds, the respiratory system, or the digestive system. Skin infections usually occur when there is direct contact with infected animals. Respiratory infections are less common in Thailand but can occur in industries related to animal transportation and processing, where the bacteria may be present in fur and hair, and spread through the air. Ingesting contaminated meat that has not been properly cooked can lead to infection through the digestive system.   Symptoms Clinical symptoms   Cutaneous anthrax, as found in Thailand, often has a history of contact with the carcasses of dead cows or buffaloes without knowing the cause. Approximately 2-3 days later, red bumps appear at the point of contact, such as on the hands or fingers. The bumps are itchy but not painful, and within 12-48 hours, they swell into clear fluid-filled blisters, which then turn into pus-filled blisters. The center breaks open, and a deep, round ulcer forms, resembling the base of a mortar, with distinct raised edges. The wound turns brown and eventually black, resembling a coal ember, hence the name anthrax, which is derived from the word for coal. All of this occurs around the fifth day after the appearance of the red bumps. Lesions can be found on the fingers, around the eyes, neck, arms, and legs. Patients may experience fever, headache, and fatigue. In severe cases, the inflammation may spread to the lymph nodes and enter the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, shock, and even death.   Respiratory anthrax presents with high fever, difficulty breathing, restlessness, sore throat, chest pain, swollen tongue, cyanosis, bloody cough, low blood pressure, shock, and ultimately death. Respiratory infections are more severe and progress faster than other forms, so urgent treatment is required. Key symptoms include rapid onset, chest pain, and coughing up blood.   Gastrointestinal anthrax often has a history of consuming raw or undercooked meat, such as in soups or salads, and presents with sudden, severe abdominal pain, explosive diarrhea resembling cholera, and possibly large amounts of fresh blood in the stool   Complications and Treatment Other complications may include infections in the bloodstream, leading to high fever and shock. There may also be infections in the meninges, causing neurological symptoms such as headache, confusion, restlessness, and delirium, eventually leading to unconsciousness. Diagnosis of the disease is not difficult and can be made from the patient's history of contact with animals or exposure to real anthrax powder in letters from terrorists like Bin Laden. Physical examination reveals the aforementioned symptoms, and the presence of the bacteria can be detected in sputum, skin, or blood cultures.   Fortunately, treatment is not difficult, and there are several effective drugs available, including penicillin, streptomycin, tetracycline, erythromycin, and chloramphenicol. If penicillin is used, it is often administered as an injection into the bloodstream. Since treatment is not difficult, there is no need to be overly concerned, and gram-positive bacteria like anthrax are generally not highly drug-resistant. Previously, people died due to the lack of effective treatment, but now there are many good treatment options available.   Prevention Prevention can be achieved through public health education, avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked meat, such as in waterfall-style dishes or spicy salads. Boiling for approximately half an hour can effectively destroy spores. If an animal dies without a known cause, notify the relevant authorities for an investigation. If you find powder in an envelope, report it to the Ministry of Public Health. If you are aware of the disease and receive prompt treatment, it is generally safe. Vaccination may be administered to animals, and in humans, it is usually given to those who work with animals or, in the future, possibly postal workers. For those who have come into contact with the disease, monitor symptoms for about 7 days, as the incubation period does not exceed 7 days. If this period passes without any symptoms, you can be reassured, and if you fall ill within this time, seek prompt treatment.   Conclusion Anthrax is a disease worth knowing about but not necessarily fearing for those in our country. Most importantly, as we are not enemies with anyone, it is unlikely that anyone will target us. We hope you have gained valuable knowledge from this information.   With best wishes from Vibhavadi Hospital. Source: Thaiclinic.com  

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Danger from the "Paederus Beetle"

Danger from the "Paederus Beetle"   Hello, my name is Pedarus, also known as the "Paederus Beetle." Nowadays, many people are afraid and say that we are causing a widespread outbreak of skin diseases. Before jumping to conclusions, let me introduce myself. In English, we are called Paederus spp. We are small insects that can be seen with the naked eye, with a black and orange striped pattern on our bodies. Our image often appears in your medical exams. However, we carry a dangerous fluid in our bodies that can cause skin diseases. We fly around at night, often getting lost in bright lights, and end up landing on people's skin while they are sleeping. We wander around on your skin and, if you accidentally touch us while sleeping, our fluid can cause chemical burns on your skin. If you rub your eyes after touching us, it can also cause eye irritation. All of this can happen while you are asleep. You may wake up to find a sudden rash, blistering, pus-filled bumps, and inflamed eyes, different from the long-lasting symptoms caused by snakebites. The rash may have a unique pattern, such as a linear configuration, if you accidentally killed us by dragging your arm along, or kissing lesions if we were killed by bending your arm.   The symptoms may cause confusion, as some may mistake them for snakebites.   Treatment   There is nothing to be afraid of as the social media hype suggests. Doctors will provide treatment for the inflamed skin that is not caused by an infection, take proper care of the wounds, and monitor the risk of bacterial infection. The symptoms usually disappear within a week, but may leave dark marks on the skin after the inflammation subsides. These marks will eventually fade on their own over time.   Prevention   If you see us crawling on your skin, don't hit us and avoid bursting our fluid that causes skin irritation.   Source: Thai Society of Dermatologists.   Best wishes from the Skin and Laser Center, Vibhavadi Hospital.

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Working Postures for Good Health

Working Postures for Good Health Dangers of inappropriate working postures include:   Dangers to tendons and muscles Dangers to joints Dangers to nerves Dangers to blood vessels   Characteristics of working postures   1. Hands and wrists Appropriate posture: Hands are placed flat and straight. Postures to avoid: Bending fingers and reversing them back towards the back of the hand. Bending hand and fingers downwards. Bending wrist outwards towards the thumb. Bending wrist outwards towards the little finger. Rotating hand and arm outwards towards the little finger. Rotating hand and arm inwards towards the little finger.   2. Arms and shoulders Appropriate posture: Shoulders and arms should be level and perpendicular to the body while working. Postures to avoid: Stretching hands, arms, or shoulders forward. Moving arms or shoulders towards the back of the body. Straightening arms out to the side of the body. Bending arms towards the body.   3. Neck and back Appropriate posture: When standing or sitting, the spine should be naturally curved. Postures to avoid: Bending the back or leaning forward. Twisting the waist and spine. Leaning the body to one side. Tilting the head to one side. Bending and stretching the neck. Turning the head from side to side.   4. Knees and legs Appropriate posture: Keep knees and legs in a comfortable position. Postures to avoid: Crouching or bending the knees for long periods. Standing in the same position for a long time.     Working movements and postures   1. Hands and wrists Normal posture while working: Hands and wrists are straight, similar to when shaking hands. Adjust the height of the work surface to the appropriate position for the hands and wrists. Place the workpiece directly in front. If the workpiece moves while working, it should follow the movement of the hands. Repetitive work: Avoid repeating the same hand movements for long periods. Change the position of the hands and wrists. Alternate between different workpieces if working on a long-term task. If possible, switch work tasks. Gripping and holding techniques: Reduce the force of gripping the workpiece by using both hands. Avoid holding objects that are too large or too small. If possible, use both hands to coordinate work. Use a dragging or sliding technique instead of lifting objects vertically. Gloves and grip Consider the size and position of the grip to make it comfortable and secure. Use gloves that are the appropriate size for the hands. Use gloves that are large enough to avoid restricting blood circulation. Handling tools and equipment Avoid twisting the wrist excessively. Reduce unnecessary pressure. Use rubber gloves when using tools that vibrate or rotate. Maintain and keep tools safe and suitable for use. Use the larger muscle groups of the hands when using tools.   2. Arms and Shoulders Normal posture: Keep your shoulders and arms at a normal position, as if you're shaking hands with someone. The elbows should be close to the body. The elbows should be at a low level, or at a level that can support the weight of the work being done on the arms. Gripping movements: Try to reduce the frequency of reaching out with the arms to grip equipment while working. Try to reduce the amount of lifting or raising the arms during gripping movements. Movements: Move slowly and consistently. Avoid lifting or throwing the workpiece above the head. Use placement instead of throwing to put down the workpiece when finished. Maintaining the same posture: Avoid maintaining the same posture throughout the work. Use rotation to change the task being performed. Use tools to assist in gripping equipment or workpieces while working. Exercise and stretch the shoulder and arm muscles to relax them.   3. Neck and Back Working while sitting: Normal posture while working: Sit in a posture that arranges the spine in a natural position. Use an adjustable chair.

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How to Keep Your Heart Away from Heart Disease

How to Keep Your Heart Away from Heart Disease The treatment of heart diseases guideline in 2016 recommended a list of habits that will help you stay away from heart diseases that can be summarized as "4 No's, 5 Must's, and 3 Normals":   "4 No's": No sugar No salt No processed foods No red meat   "5 Must's": Must consume olive oil. Must consume whole grains. Must consume legumes. Must consume vegetables. Must consume fish.   "3 Normals": Maintain normal blood pressure. Maintain normal blood sugar levels. Maintain normal cholesterol levels.   Best wishes from Vibhavadi Hospital

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Is it alright to eat one egg per day?

Is it alright to eat one egg per day? Is it okay to eat one egg per day? Eggs are a convenient, inexpensive food that can be used in many dishes. However, for many years, doctors have found that eggs contain cholesterol, which can raise blood cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. As a result, adults have been advised not to eat more than three eggs per week. However, more recent research has found that the cholesterol in eggs has very little effect on blood cholesterol levels.   As a result, there has been a campaign to encourage people to eat more eggs and increase the recommendation to one egg per day. Is this new advice valid, or is it just a marketing ploy? This is a question that many people wonder about.   Eggs are composed of three main parts:   Shell: A hard outer covering. Egg white: A clear or pale yellow liquid surrounding the yolk. Egg yolk: A round, orange or red center. If the egg is fertilized, the yolk can change into an embryo and hatch into a chick.   Nutritional values Eggs are a highly nutritious food containing various nutrients. Egg whites are rich in high-quality protein, containing essential amino acids necessary for the body. Egg yolks contain various nutrients, including proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Most of the fat in egg yolks is unsaturated fat, including omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce the risk of heart disease. This is similar to the valuable fats found in salmon and other seafood. Cholesterol is present only in egg yolks and not in egg whites. Other nutrients include iron, folic acid, riboflavin, choline, and vitamins A, B, D, and E. The only vitamin not found in eggs is vitamin C. The iron in eggs is comparable in value to that of animal meat, but it is easier to chew and not as tough as meat, making it suitable for infants and elderly individuals with dental problems. Folic acid helps prevent blood clotting and congenital disabilities, making it essential for pregnant women. Choline supports cognitive function and development in growing children.   It is evident that eggs are a highly nutritious food, providing almost all essential nutrients at a lower cost than other foods with similar nutritional value. Eggs can be prepared in various ways.   Eggs, Cholesterol, and Heart Disease   In the medical community, there has been concern about the cholesterol in eggs potentially causing high blood lipid levels, which could increase the risk of heart disease. However, subsequent research has found that the cholesterol in eggs only slightly increases blood cholesterol levels. As a result, fears about the cholesterol in eggs have diminished. The American Heart Association (AHA) has changed its recommendations for egg consumption, shifting from a previous guideline of no more than three eggs per week to no more than one egg per day.   Safety One risk associated with eggs is the presence of the Salmonella Enteritidis bacteria, which can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. There are two main reasons for the contamination of eggs with this bacteria. The first and most significant cause is the presence of blood or feces on the eggshell during collection, resulting from unclean and unsanitary chicken rearing environments. Therefore, when choosing eggs, select those with clean shells and no contaminants on the surface. If the eggshell is heavily soiled, clean the surface before storing it. The second cause is the infection of the hen, with the bacteria becoming embedded in the egg, leading to the presence of the bacteria in the egg yolk. To prevent infection, avoid consuming raw eggs and ensure they are cooked before consumption.   Salmonella thrives at room temperature but does not grow well in colder temperatures. Therefore, store eggs in the refrigerator. Eggs can be stored in the fridge for up to three weeks without spoiling.   Eat Smart In addition to cooking eggs thoroughly, consuming eggs in the form of boiled, poached, or scrambled eggs contains less fat than other egg preparations. When preparing fried or omelet eggs, use unsaturated oil. Foods to consider include egg salads or spicy egg salads, as they provide nutrients from the eggs, fiber, and vitamin C from vegetables and fruits.   Avoid foods like breakfast sandwiches with fried eggs, bacon, and sausages, as they contain high amounts of fat from the bacon, frying oil, and butter used on the bread. Choose to eat larger eggs, such as chicken or duck eggs, rather than smaller eggs, like quail eggs, because the cholesterol content in larger eggs is lower than in smaller eggs when compared in equal quantities.   Is it alright to eat one egg per day? For most people, consuming one egg per day is not excessive, especially for children who are growing and for elderly individuals who may have dental issues and cannot consume other sources of protein. It is recommended to eat eggs as a protein source instead of meat for elderly people. If someone has high blood cholesterol, they may want to avoid consuming egg yolks in some meals and eat only egg whites.   People who should limit their egg consumption to no more than 3 eggs per week are those with high blood cholesterol levels who need to control their cholesterol intake. Those with egg allergies should also avoid eating eggs to prevent allergic reactions.   Thailand is fortunate to have year-round egg production from good and clean sources at affordable prices. Therefore, it is recommended to choose eggs as a protein source over meat, as the nutritional value of eggs is excellent.

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Diseases of the Prostate Gland

Diseases of the Prostate Gland Diseases of the prostate gland are conditions that affect all men as they age. Among these, prostate cancer is one of the most dangerous diseases.   Diseases of the Prostate Gland Diseases of the prostate gland are conditions that affect all men as they age. Among these, prostate cancer is a dangerous disease that, if left untreated in its early stages, can cause significant distress to patients, and destroy their quality of life in their golden years. Currently, prostate cancer is the most common cancer, ranking second among cancers in male patients. Prostate cancer can be detected in its early stages and can be treated and cured completely.   Self-care for early detection of prostate cancer includes: 1. Annual health check-ups covering prostate gland diseases, divided into 2 groups: 1.1 Individuals with a direct family history of prostate cancer (grandfather, father, and blood-related brothers) should undergo prostate gland examinations every year consistently once they are over 40 years old. 1.2 General population aged 50 years and older should undergo health check-ups covering prostate gland diseases once a year. 2. Those who have symptoms of an enlarged prostate should consult a doctor for reassurance. Symptoms of an enlarged prostate include: Frequent urination during the night (more than 2 times) Frequent urination (more often than every 2 hours) Incomplete urination, dribbling Inability to control urination, leakage issues. Weak urine flow Urine dripping, soiling hands, and feet Needing to strain during urination.   Examination procedures 1. General medical examination: The doctor will order tests for: Urine to check for infections in the urinary tract. If there is an infection, treatment is necessary. Blood tests to analyze kidney function (testing for creatinine or B.U.N.) to determine the extent of obstruction in the urinary tract. Blood tests for the enzyme produced in the prostate gland, called P.S.A. (Prostatic Specific Antigen). If it's found to be high in the blood (normal value: 4ng%), further consideration is needed, as it may indicate prostate cancer. 2. Examination by a urologist: If a general practitioner detects changes in the urine or blood or if the patient has symptoms of an enlarged prostate (mentioned in the previous 7 points), the patient will be referred to a urologist for further analysis. The examination will proceed in the following steps: 2.1 A digital rectal examination is performed to assess the size of the prostate gland, feel for any lumps, and evaluate the firmness and mobility of the gland. 2.2 If a lump is found in the prostate, the next step is an ultrasound examination via the rectum, along with considering a biopsy of the prostate tissue through the rectum in the area where the lump is detected, to confirm the presence of cancer. 2.3 If the instrument examination does not find a lump and the prostate gland is not firmer than usual, the doctor will recommend the patient to have their PSA levels checked in about 3 months. If the PSA results do not change significantly or increase slightly, the chance of cancer is low. The patient will receive a follow-up appointment for close monitoring. If the PSA levels have increased significantly, the patient will be advised to undergo an ultrasound and a biopsy of the prostate tissue to analyze for cancer and be closely monitored as a patient thereafter.   The urologist's examination will provide the final diagnosis to determine the type of prostate disease and the appropriate treatment method to ensure the patient's safety and improve their quality of life during their golden years.

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Insomnia

Insomnia Insomnia can be easily divided into three types: difficulty falling asleep (Sleep onset insomnia), frequent waking (Sleep Maintenance insomnia), and feeling sleepy despite getting enough sleep (Nonrestorative Sleep).   The duration of insomnia is also important for assessing the cause and treatment, such as: Transient insomnia is often found during changes in daily life or environment, or jet lag. Short-term insomnia typically lasts for 2-3 days up to 3 weeks, and can occur during stressful situations, such as post-surgery recovery. Long-term or chronic insomnia can last for months or years and may be due to medication use, chronic physical or mental illnesses, or unknown causes. Several factors can contribute to chronic insomnia, such as: Environmental and atmospheric conditions in the bedroom, such as bright lights or inappropriate noises Napping during the day Heavy meals before bedtime Drinking coffee Stimulant medications or substances Emotional and psychological stress   Treatment Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet Engaging in regular and appropriate exercise Avoiding the use of stimulant medications or substances to improve insomnia symptoms Sleep medications should be used with discretion under the supervision of a doctor.   Source: http://www.thaiclinic.com

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7 Signs of Overexercising

7 Signs of Overexercising   Exercise offers numerous benefits, including improved strength, stress relief, better overall health, and even prevention of various illnesses. However, it's important to exercise smartly and not overdo it to the point where it becomes harmful to your body.   Here are seven signs indicating that you might be exercising too much:   Feeling exhausted instead of refreshed after exercising. Not seeing the same results as when you first started. Experiencing persistent aches and pains in your body, joints, or bones. Feeling stressed, down, or unusually depressed. Having difficulty sleeping or feeling constantly tired despite getting enough rest. Lacking energy or feeling drained more quickly than usual. Getting sick easily, frequently, or having difficulty recovering from illnesses. If you notice any of these symptoms, consider taking a break from exercise and allowing your body to rest and recover. Once you feel refreshed and stress-free, you can gradually return to your exercise routine.   Best wishes from Vibhavadi Hospital.   Source: Naewna Newspaper, Health & Beauty column, page 16, February 22, 2017.

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