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Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding Mother's Milk The perfect, specially made food for your child Easy to digest and absorb Helps build immunity against diseases Enhances mother-child bonding Infants Breastfed Reduces problems related to allergies and obesity Less likely to have digestive problems such as diarrhea, constipation, and bloating Better overall physical and mental health When to Start Breastfeeding First milk is yellow and highly beneficial in preventing infections Breastfeed frequently to stimulate milk production to meet the baby's needs Breastfeed from both breasts during each feeding Proper positioning and latch are vital Let the child breastfeed as long as needed Always start with the breast that is left over Don't worry about nipple pain in the first 2-3 days; it will soon go away Always burp the baby during and after each feeding Positions for Breastfeeding Hold the baby facing the breast Gently touch the nipple to the baby's lower lip, letting the baby latch onto all of the nipple and areola Support the baby's head close to your chest Draw the baby's bottom close, with the nose tilted up for easy breathing Stop the baby before removing the nipple from the mouth Insert a little finger into the corner of the baby's mouth to break the suction gently to avoid nipple damage Diet Include all five food groups Foods to Avoid Avoid fermented, pickled foods, alcoholic beverages, and certain fishy odors Avoid strong-smelling vegetables such as pickled garlic, bamboo shoots, acacia, and various chili sauces Benefits to the Mother Reduces the risk of hemorrhage Helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy state Helps the mother return to her pre-pregnancy shape faster Reduces the risk of breast cancer Benefits for the Child: Complete nutrition Helps in growth and physical development Easy to digest and absorb Immunity against diseases, reduces problems related to allergies Obesity How to have enough breast milk? Mother is ready and willing to breastfeed immediately: Breastfeed frequently. If the child sleeps for more than 3 hours, wake them up to suckle on both sides and do it correctly. Should breastfeed directly from the mother’s breast. Give only breast milk, not formula, until 4-6 months. The mother should have sufficient sleep and rest. Drink plenty of warm water. Eat from all 5 food groups. Drink lots of water and eat all 5 food groups, not less than during pregnancy: Breastfeed frequently, every 2-3 hours in the beginning, the more the child suckles, the more milk will be produced. Allow the child to suckle from both sides each time. Give formula to the child only as needed, as it will reduce breastfeeding. Remember, if you change the diaper 6-8 times a day, it means the child has enough breast milk.     7. Hand Expressing Milk:    - Position fingers and thumb as shown.    - Place fingers behind the brown part of the nipple.    - Press gently onto the breast, squeeze forward, then release, repeating several times until milk flows.    - Express milk into a clean container.    - Move around the breast area, going around the nipple.    - Store the milk in a clean bottle, refrigerate for 24 hours, or freeze for 2 weeks.     8. Should the child be bottle-fed when going out?    In the beginning, avoid giving formula. If necessary, wait until the child knows how to breastfeed first, which may take 2-3 weeks. If you need to be away, express the milk for the child. This method allows the child to have milk to eat. Spoon or bowl feeding is better than a bottle as the child may confuse between the mother’s breast and a rubber nipple and refuse to breastfeed again. Key to Stimulating Milk Production: Suckle quickly Suckle often Suckle correctly Reasons for Unsuccessful Breastfeeding: Confusion between breastfeeding and bottle feeding Too much formula feeding (fearing the child is not full) Misunderstanding the nature of the child and milk production With best wishes from Vibhavadi Hospital.  

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After childbirth:

After childbirth: The belly may not yet have shrunk, and there may be stretch marks; exercising can help tighten abdominal muscles and reduce fat. Mothers who have given birth naturally can begin exercising in the 2nd week after childbirth; if a cesarean section was performed, wait for the 3rd or 4th week. Pain and breast engorgement are normal and can be treated with pain medication, and breastfeeding can continue as usual. Uterine pain may occur in the first 2-3 days after childbirth, and lochia will last about 4-6 weeks. Mothers should eat a well-balanced diet to restore health and ensure quality breast milk. Avoid pickled and spicy food as it may harm the baby. Constipation might be a problem postpartum, so increase the intake of fruits and vegetables and drink enough water. Bathing and shampooing can be done normally, but soaking baths should be avoided. For mothers who had a cesarean section, they should wipe themselves or use waterproof plasters as per the doctor's instructions. These guidelines assist in general postpartum care for mothers and should be followed according to the advice of a doctor or healthcare provider for optimal health. Using a belly wrap during the day can help reduce pain from wounds; it should be removed and cleaned at night. Surgical stitches may hurt for 3-4 days but will heal within 7-10 days. Clean after each bowel movement, wiping from front to back. Mothers should rest at least 6-8 hours a day. If suffering from hemorrhoids, clean the area and you may apply an ice pack. For constipation, drink plenty of water and eat lots of vegetables and fruits. Sexual activity should be avoided for 4-6 weeks after childbirth. There are various birth control methods, such as pills, injections, and IUDs, etc. It's advisable to consult a doctor or nurse to choose the appropriate method. Symptoms That Should Prompt a Visit to the Doctor: Excessive vaginal bleeding Severe abdominal pain, twisting pain Fever, chills, body temperature above 38 degrees Celsius Frequent urination or painful urination Red and swollen surgical wounds with pus Red and swollen stitched wounds with pus or bleeding Foul-smelling, red lochia for more than 15 days after childbirth Lumps or red, swollen breasts Exercise 10 positions... to maintain a beautiful figure       Before starting the exercises, it is advised for mothers who have given birth naturally to begin body exercises 2-3 days after childbirth. For those who underwent a C-section, wait for a month before starting. Starting late will yield slower results, so starting early will make you beautiful sooner. Position 1: Exercise the chest, shoulders, back, neck, and reduce the abdomen      Lie on your back with arms by your side, slowly lift your head off the floor until your chin touches your chest, counting one, two, three. While lifting the head, arms, legs, and body must be straight, then slowly lower the head. Repeat about 10 times. If you have a sagging belly, use both hands to press down on the abdomen when lifting the head. The abdominal muscles will tighten, and pressing them will help the muscles come together better. Position 2: Exercise the legs, thighs, abdomen, and hips      Lie flat on your stomach, bend both knees, making a right angle, and keep them close together, with feet flat and appropriately spaced. Lift your hips, using your shoulders to push off the floor, simultaneously squeezing your hip muscles. This will help improve the stitched area. Position 3: Exercise the abdomen, hips, chest, and help release lochia      Lie on your stomach and lift your buttocks as close to your chest as possible, into a hunched position, with knees about 1 foot apart. The chest must be flat on the floor. Stay in this position for about 2 minutes, then use a pillow to cushion the abdomen, to reduce fatigue, and lie in this position for about half an hour. Position 4: Full body exercise      Kneel down with shins, knees, and feet close to your elbows. Put your palms on the floor like crawling, then slowly lower your elbows to the floor. Lower your head until your chin touches your chest, contract your abdomen, tense the muscles in the hips and legs, then slowly lower your hips to touch your heels. Lean back slightly, forehead touching the floor, arms straight, then lift the body back to the original position. The uterus will return to normal sooner. Position 5: Exercise the vaginal muscles      This involves squeezing the vaginal or rectal muscles while lying or sitting, as if urinating and then contracting immediately. Do this for about 5-10 minutes at a time, or squeeze about 20 times a day. You can do this while doing housework or breastfeeding. Position 6 for Chest, Abdomen, and Lungs Lie flat on your back. Extend your arms and legs straight along your body. Take a deep breath slowly, counting to three, then tighten your stomach. Try to press your waist against the floor, then gradually exhale. Rest for a moment before repeating approximately 10 times. Position  7 for Arms, Chest, and Lungs Lie on your back with your arms stretched along your sides. Raise both arms straight up perpendicular to your body until both hands can touch each other. Then slowly lower your arms until they are back alongside your body. Repeat about 10 times. Position  8 for Legs, Hips, and Abdomen Lie flat on the floor with your arms along your sides. Lift one leg up perpendicular to your body, keeping it straight, then lower it slowly. Alternate legs. Repeat about 10 times. Once you're stronger, try lifting both legs simultaneously. Position  9 for Abdomen, Shoulders, Back, and Neck Lie on your back with your body stretched and arms by your sides. Sit up without using your arms for support. Raise your arms parallel to the ground. Then slowly lie back down. Start doing this once or twice daily. As you get stronger, gradually increase the frequency. Your arms can be placed in three positions: alongside your body, both hands on your chest, or both hands behind your head. Position 10 for Abdomen, Hips, and Legs Lie flat with your arms extended. Bend your knees close to your abdomen, so your heels touch your buttocks, then straighten your legs. Lower them slowly back to the original position without bending the knees. Alternate legs. Start with a few repetitions and gradually increase by 1-2 repetitions daily.   For more details, contact the Pediatrics Department at 02-561-1111 or 02-058-1111, extensions 4220-21.  

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Breast massage technique to increase milk supply

Breast massage technique to increase milk supply Breast massage is a technique that helps to increase milk supply by stimulating the milk ducts in the breast.   Preparation: Before massaging, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly and use a warm compress on the breasts for about 1-3 minutes. Then massage gently on the breasts to stimulate milk production in different positions.   There are 6 steps to increasing breast milk supply: 1. Butterfly stroke: Place your hands on the inside of your breast and massage outward in a circular motion. 2. Fingertip circles: With the palm of one hand supporting the breast, use the fingertips of the other hand to make circles around the breast, repeating five times. 3. Diamond stroke: Place the flat part of your hand on the breast and then clasp both hands together and slide down the breast. 4. Acupressure point I: Use your index finger to press and rotate on the area above the breast. 5. Acupressure point II: Use three fingers of your right hand to press on the area above the breast and then use three fingers of your left hand to press and rotate in the same position. 6. Squeezing milk: In the final step, all four techniques should be done without touching the nipple. 6.1. Use your right hand to hold the breast and use your left index finger to press and rotate around the breast. 6.2. Place your right hand on the right breast and use your fingers to press and rotate inwards towards the nipple. 6.3 Repeat each technique for five rounds to increase milk production.   The best milk for babies is mother's milk because it is the most complete and balanced food for infants. Some mothers may experience low milk supply and need to use "breast massage" to stimulate milk production. Although breast massage can increase milk supply, mothers should prioritize the quality of milk by eating nutritious and complete foods.   Prohibitions for breast massage: Breast inflammation, infection, swelling, and redness can worsen. Skin diseases can spread the infection. Wounds or injuries around the breast area.   Recommendations for mothers: Mother's milk has the highest nutritional value and immunity to various diseases. Mother's milk is essential for infants during the first 6 months, and many mothers still breastfeed their babies after that period, along with providing age-appropriate solid foods. Mothers can seek advice on breastfeeding from medical professionals, friends, or relatives with experience. Breastfeeding frequently is the best way to ensure an adequate and consistent milk supply. Additionally, consuming a balanced diet during pregnancy and after childbirth also helps to maintain sufficient milk supply.

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Frozen Shoulder

Frozen Shoulder  Symptoms Pain, aching, tightness, and stiffness in the shoulder and scapular region, difficulty raising an arm especially in hair combing movements or reaching behind. Causes Inflammation from injured tendons and muscles in the shoulder area. Accidents such as bone fractures or dislocated shoulder. Cervical nerves compression or from excessive calcium buildup. Lack of movements in elderly patients Other causes such as rheumatoid arthritis. Recommended actions Rest the affected arm. Apply an ice pack to the pain area for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day, during the first 2 days after an injury. Avoid massaging the injured area as it can increase the inflammation. Avoid sleeping on the injured arm. Gradually increase arm movement and incorporate stretching after the pain subsides. If the symptoms do not improve, seek medical attention and physical therapy for further examination and treatment. Shoulder Exercise Before exercising the shoulder, it is recommended to apply heat for about 15-20 minutes. The exercise should begin with gentle movements and gradually increase the intensity.   Stretching exercises for frozen shoulder 1. Pendulum Stretch Stand and lean over slightly, allowing the affected arm to hang down. Swing the arm in a small circle clockwise and counter-clockwise. Complete 10 sets 2-3 times a day. 2. Finger Walk Stand facing a wall with straight back and your arm extended forward. Slowly walk your fingers up the wall, gradually increasing the height until you feel tension in your shoulder and hold it, counting 1-10. Repeat this 10 times, 2-3 times a day. Then switch to the opposite side, facing the wall with the affected arm and slowly walk your arm along the wall. 3. Towel Stretch Stand up straight. Grasp a towel with two hands behind your back, the good arm in front and the affected arm in the back. Use your good arm to pull the affected arm up and down with the towel, creating light tension in your shoulder. Hold for 10 seconds and do 10 repetitions 2-3 times per day. 4. Assisted Stretching Assisted Overhead Stretch Assisted Flexion Assisted Abduction and Adduction Assisted Medial Rotation - lift a stick up and down alternating between each side. This will make you feel a light tension in the shoulder area. Do 10 reps per side, 2-3 sets per day. 5. Pulley Stretch Hang a rope through a hoop or metal bar above the head, hold onto the ends of the rope with both hands. Use the good arm to pull the rope up and down slowly until you feel a light stretch in the shoulder area. Do 10 repetitions per set 2-3 sets per day. 6. Armpit Stretch Setup a bar at the height of stretched out arms while standing. Grasp the bar and relax your shoulders. Gently bend your knees until you feel a light tension in your shoulders. Do this 10 repetitions per set 2-3 times each day.

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Abdominal pain

Abdominal pain is a common symptom with various causes, and it may manifest depending on the location of the pain on the abdomen: Upper right abdomen: Gallbladder inflammation, liver inflammation Lower right abdomen: Appendicitis, kidney stone in the urinary tract Upper left abdomen: Gastritis, pancreatitis Lower left abdomen: Intestinal obstruction, kidney stone in the urinary tract Epigastrium: Gastritis, inflammation of the upper small intestine Around the navel: Early-stage appendicitis, aneurysm Lower abdomen: Bladder inflammation, inflammation of the fallopian tubes The diagnosis of the disease causing abdominal pain must be considered from accompanying symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination by a doctor. Treatment varies according to the cause and severity of the symptoms. If there is sudden abdominal pain, it is necessary to see a doctor urgently for assessment and prompt treatment. Abdominal pain may also be caused by diseases outside the abdominal cavity, such as spinal diseases, pneumonia, pancreatitis, high calcium in the blood, diabetes with complications such as DKA, severe uremia (toxins in the blood from kidney failure), Addison's disease, typhoid fever, porphyria, lead poisoning, thyroid disorders, psychosomatic causes of chronic abdominal pain. If the disease has a specific cause, examples include inflammatory bowel disease, ischemic bowel, diabetic neuropathy, stomach ulcers, peritoneal abscesses, abdominal tumors, chronic hepatitis, endometrial proliferation, gallstones, intussusception, bowel obstruction, gastritis, appendicitis, inflamed inguinal canal. If the disease has no clear cause, examples include irritable bowel syndrome. Investigating the Cause: The doctor will rely on the patient's history and physical examination to consider selecting additional examination methods, especially in cases where abdominal pain is unclear or chronic. If the symptoms do not change, a diagnosis may be given, with treatment and monitoring of symptoms. If the patient responds well to treatment, an initial diagnosis may be made. However, if there is no response to treatment or the symptoms change, further examination will be necessary. Additional examination depends on the suspected cause of abdominal pain, such as blood tests, urine tests, stool tests, radiological examinations, endoscopy, tissue biopsies, etc. Treatment: The doctor will provide comprehensive treatment for the suspected cause and treat the symptoms while waiting for clear test results. With best wishes, from the Gastrointestinal System Center.  

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Knee replacement surgery

Knee replacement surgery A treatment option for those suffering from knee osteoarthritis is a knee replacement surgery. There are many types of knee replacement surgeries, which depends on disease progression and the patient’s age.   How it’s done: Osteotomy – a viable option for younger patients; the aim is to aid the dispersion of weight and lessen the pressure on the knee joint. Unicompartment knee replacement – a partial knee replacement for those with osteoarthritis in only 1 knee. Total knee replacement – A full knee replacement, suitable for older patients as a last option for treatment when other treatments were not effective.   A new method for knee arthroplasty This new method of knee arthroplasty will only require an opening wound of 8-14 cm, which cuts above the knee cap and large enough for the insertion of the artificial joint. The artificial joint is of the highest quality, and certified in both the United States and Europe.   Strengths: Decrease the injury inflicted upon connective tissues and muscles around the knee, allowing for a low pain and quick recovery process. Small surgery wound. Quick recovery time.   Process of the knee arthroplasty: Prior to the surgery, a cardiologist will conduct a detailed screening on the patient to ensure a safe anesthesia or epidural process.   The surgery will take about 1-2 hours. A few days after the surgery, the patient will be aided to walk with a walking stick. After 5 days in the hospital and without complications, the patient can return home.   With advancing technology these days, the artificial joint can look and feel like the real joint. Even more so with a precise surgical technique, patients can enjoy their artificial joint for up to 10-15 years…leading to a better quality of life.

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The genius brain of Einstein

Albert Einstein, one of the most well known scientist in history, has travelled to many countries and contributed greatly to the field of science.   Einstein passed away when he was 76 years old, on the 18th of April 1955 at Princeton Hospital in New Jersey. Though it has been more than half a century since his death, his legacy remains in the form of ideas, theories, and his life story.    His body was cremated in a religious ceremony, yet none of his family members knew that the brain of the renowned physicist was missing. The pathologist who conducted Einstein’s autopsy, Dr. Thomas S. Harvey, removed Einstein’s brain without the permission of his family. Dr. Harvey then conduct various studies on the brain of the late physicist, first preserving the brain and then cut into 240 pieces for observation under the microscope. Some parts of the brain were sent to experts in different fields to study, but Dr. Harvey kept most of Einstein’s brain.   This led to a big controversy, deeming the Dr.’s action as unethical, causing him to constantly move away and seek refuge elsewhere to escape the backlash. Yet he still kept Einstein’s preserved brain with him.   In 1966, Dr. Harvey moved back to Princeton and made the decision to give the remaining preserved brain of Einstein to Dr. Elliot Krauss, who was the pathologist at Princeton Hospital at that time.   Thus, a new study on Einstein’s genius began again.   The team at Princeton Hospital brought together all the remaining parts of Einstein’s brain, took various photographs to build a 3D image of what the brain may have looked like on the day of the autopsy. What was found was baffling…Albert Einstein’s brain weighed only 1,230 grams, while the average adult human brain weighed at 1,400   gram. Despite the mass, the team of scientists found that his brain was dense with neurons, much more than the average person.     Furthermore, research into Einstein’s corpus callosum, the nerve fibers that connect the two hemispheres of the brain, showed high connections between the two hemispheres. Researchers suggested that it was possible that this special brain structure allowed Albert Einstein to think and imagine in such a rich and profound way, more than words can even describe.   To quote a famous saying by the man himself:     “Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.” – Albert Einstein   At this moment, Einstein’s preserved brain is being kept at Princeton Hospital, the same place where it was stolen more than 50 years ago.   Story from Khaosod newspaper, published on Monday 7th March 2005.

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Bacteria on banknotes

Money is perhaps the most touched item and a major source of germ accumulation. China uses the Yuan, Mexico uses the Pesos, the United Kingdom uses Pounds. However, Nigeria does not use Euros as stated; it uses Naira. The United States, Australia, and New Zealand use Dollars. Although many countries use different kinds of banknotes, they all have one thing in common: "Germs on banknotes." Bacteria on banknotes can stay with you as long as you use them. Studies on microbes on banknotes have been conducted for a long time and found that some of these microbes can cause diseases. While most bacteria are harmless, there have been banknotes found with E.coli, a bacterium that naturally exists in the large intestines of humans and animals. Consuming food contaminated with this bacterium can lead to food poisoning, diarrhea, and other illnesses. What we call "paper money" is not actually made of paper but is usually printed on cotton. Different countries use different materials made of many bonded molecules, which can be in liquid, solid, or semi-solid forms. Banknotes from three countries that have been found to have fewer bacteria are made of polymer. Those three countries are Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico. This suggests that germs are less likely to survive on polymer surfaces. Under a microscope, the surface of a polymer banknote appears smoother than that of cotton, making it harder for germs to stick. A single banknote can carry over 26,000 bacteria, posing risks of illnesses, especially diarrhea and pneumonia. Properly washing hands with soap and water can reduce the mortality rate from diarrhea by 50% and from pneumonia by 25%, as mentioned by Dr. Saengsom Sinavatan, Director of Health Advisory. A study from Oxford University in the UK indicates that an average banknote carries around 26,000 bacteria. Given that banknotes are passed through many hands, these bacteria can be plentiful enough to cause nausea, vomiting, and even spread diseases. UNICEF data shows that every year, 3.5 million children under the age of 5 die from diarrhea and about 2 million from pneumonia. Research has shown that proper hand washing with soap and water can reduce the mortality rate from diarrhea by 50% and from pneumonia by 25%. In Thailand, a 2009 survey on hand-washing habits revealed that only 61% of people washed their hands before eating. And even though 87% washed their hands after using the toilet, 41% only used plain water. This suggests that Thais don't give as much importance to washing hands with soap as they should. Efforts must be increased to prevent and reduce the rate of diseases, especially diarrhea. Stay safe, stay germ-free. Don't forget to wash your hands. Best wishes from Vibhavadi Hospital.

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Metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of diseases that cause high visceral fat (deposit of fat in the abdominal region). Risk factors include high blood glucose, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, leading to a greater risk in diabetes and cardiovascular disease.   Visceral fat is a silent killer. Obese people tend to have higher visceral fat, the larger the waistline, the more visceral fat deposited. These visceral fat can breakdown and enter the liver as free fatty acids, which can affect insulin function and cause metabolic syndrome. With every 5 cm increase of the waistline, the risk of diabetes increases 3-5 times.   High risk population of metabolic syndrome: Men with a waistline larger than 90 cm Women with a waistline larger than 80 cm Blood pressure higher than 130/85 mmHg Fasting blood glucose higher than 100 mg/dL Triglycerides level higher than 150 mg/dL HDL levels lower than 40 mg/dL for men and lower than 50 mg/dL for women   The dangers of high visceral fat High visceral fat can cause insulin insensitivity, a change in the molecular level that causes the body to not respond to its own insulin released to regulate blood glucose levels. Insulin insensitivity may lead to the inability to control glucose levels in the blood and more free fatty acids released, becoming fat deposits in the liver and muscles. Eventually, the beta cells in the pancreas may weaken and die, as the person develops type 2 diabetes.     Negative effects of insulin insensitivity When a person’s body does not respond well to the insulin hormone that their pancreas releases, it can result in constantly high blood glucose levels. This can directly trigger inflammation in the  vascular system which in turn cause abnormalities in the vascular walls, restrict the flexibility of that vascular smooth muscles and increase the risk of getting cardiovascular disease by 2-3 times. Furthermore it can also cause high blood pressure and diabetes. Decrease the body’s ability to breakdown thrombus, which can cause an embolism. Cause deposits of plaque, blocking arteries and causing atherosclerosis. Increased blood glucose level.   A 2002 study done in the US have found that obese people who exercised by walking 30 minutes everyday for 5 days and ate low fat foods could help them lose 5-7% of their original weight. After 4 years, their risk of diabetes have decreased by 5-10%, and decreased visceral fat by 30% when compared to the control group who lived normally.   Metabolic syndrome is a medical term used to describe abnormal metabolism, causing cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and diabetes. In the past, it used to be called Syndrome X and insulin resistance syndrome.    In order to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, a person has to have visceral fat,  waistline measurements of 90 and 80 cm for men and women, respectively, and at least 2 other conditions. Such as: Blood pressure measurements higher than 130/85 mmHg Being on medication to treat high blood pressure Triglyceride levels higher than 150 mg/dL Being on medication to control cholesterol HDL levels higher than 40 and 50 mg/dL Blood glucose levels higher than 100 mg/dL Being diagnosed with diabetes type 2 It was found that those who have 3 risk factors are 2 times more likely to get cardiovascular diseases. Those with 4 risk factors are 3 times more likely to get cerebrovascular diseases and 24 times more likely to get diabetes.   Who is more likely to get metabolic syndrome? Those with diabetes Those who have high blood pressure and glucose levels Those with cardiovascular disease   Causes of metabolic syndrome:   Though the definite cause of metabolic syndrome is still unknown, but insulin insensitivity is a big factor.   Genetics – different genetics in people of different ethnicities can play a role in the accumulation of visceral fat. In addition, external factors such as the food they eat, lifestyle, risk factors, and age.   Older populations, those over 60, have a 40% chance of developing metabolic syndrome when compared to those in their 20’s with only a 10% chance.   Some ethnicities are more susceptible to developing metabolic syndrome.   Those who are obese and have a family history of diabetes and high blood pressure also have a higher chance of developing metabolic syndrome.   Negative health effects: Atherosclerosis can limit blood access to the heart, therefore limiting oxygen that the organ needs to stay alive Kidneys may inefficiently get rid of salts and disrupting homeostasis, causing high blood pressure High triglycerides increasing the risk for atherosclerosis Atherosclerosis blocking blood access to the heart and brain  Increased risk of diabetes Treatment:  When a person is diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, treatment is required to limit the chances of developing other diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.   Lifestyle changes A 30-minute exercise session everyday, 5 days a week can reduce your chances of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes.   Eating healthy food low in fat and carbohydrates, increasing fibers intake such as grains, brown rice, vegetables, legumes, using soy bean oil instead of palm oil, and decreasing the intake of meat and coconut milk.   Losing about 5-10% of the original weight can decrease the risk of getting diabetes.   Avoiding alcohol   Treatment by medication When lifestyle changes do not work, medical intervention may need to occur.   The goal of treating cholesterol is to lower triglycerides and LDL levels, while increasing the good HDL levels.   Medication used to treat cholesterol can include: Fibrate (PPAR alpha agonists) – used for controlling cholesterol to avoid the risk of cardiovascular disease Statin – decrease specific lipids such as ApoB-contatining lipoproteins which are involved in causing cardiovascular disease. Using these 2 medications together can cause side effects.      Treating high blood pressure Treatment should commence once blood pressure increases up to 140/90 mmHg. Those with diabetes should start when their blood pressure is at 130/80 mmHg. Medication used to treat high blood pressure can include: Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors such as enarapril and perindopril, and angiotensin receptor blockers such as cozaar, valsartane. Please be mindful that these current medication can still cause side effects in different users.  

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How to count ovulation days

Many women have questions like this in their  minds: How do I know when I'm ovulating? Whenis the best time to have sex in order to conceive? However, before you start counting days until ovulation, it's important to understand your menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle is the shedding of the uterine lining and typically occurs every 28 ± 7 days. Some women may have shorter cycles of 21 days or longer cycles of 35 days. The time from ovulation to the first day of the next menstrual period is relatively constant at 14 ± 2 days. Therefore, the length of your menstrual cycle depends on the time it takes for the egg to mature and be released. You should keep track of  the first day of your period every month to  estimate when you will ovulate, the best time to have sex, or to help with birth control if you don&want to become pregnant. The menstrual cycle is controlled by the hormones FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone), which are secreted bythe pituitary gland in the brain. During the early phase of the menstrual cycle, FSH is secreted in high amounts to stimulate the growth of follicles and eggs. Initially, several eggs will start to grow, but only one will be selected to continue developing while the rest will degenerate. As the egg grows, the follicle produces the hormone estrogen, which thickens the lining of the uterus. As the cycle progresses and the egg approaches maturity, the pituitary gland secretes LH to trigger ovulation. The mature follicle ruptures, and the egg is released from the ovary, which is called "ovulation." The egg then travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. If sperm are present and fertilize the egg, it will divide and continue to travel to the uterus, where it will implant in the uterine lining and develop into a fetus. The left over egg “sac” or the corpus luteum will be responsible for producing progesterone which keeps the uterine lining thick for implantation. This process takes approximately six days from ovulation to implantation. If the egg is not fertilized, it will disintegrate, and the uterine lining will shed, resulting in menstruation. Menstrual Cycle Tracking: It is the process of counting the days from the first day of one period to the first day of the next period. Women with regular periods can use this method to estimate when ovulation occurs. To do this, they record the first day of their period and count back 14 days. This is the day they are likely to ovulate or when the egg is released. For example, if the menstrual cycle is 28 days, ovulation is likely to occur on day 14 of the cycle, and if the cycle is 30 days, ovulation is likely to occur on day 16. Women with irregular periods may have difficulty tracking ovulation using this method. Currently, there are ovulation test kits availablethat measure the level of LH in urine. LH levels increase as ovulation approaches and peak on the day of ovulation (LH surge). The test kit shows a faint line that gradually becomes darker as LH levels increase, indicating that ovulation is approaching. It is recommended to have sexual intercourse more frequently during this period. The test kit will show a negative result after ovulation has occurred. If pregnancy is not detected, a blood test may be needed for a more accurate result.

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