Fatty Liver: Harvard-Trained Doctor Busts 3 Common Myths

New Delhi: Fatty liver disease has become a growing global health problem, often surrounded by myths that can lead to confusion and dangerous neglect. To clear the air, Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a Harvard- and Stanford-trained gastroenterologist, recently shared a series of posts on Instagram debunking three major misconceptions. Myth 1: Fatty liver is caused by eating fat ❌ False – It’s not fat intake alone that causes fatty liver.✅ Truth – The main culprits are excess processed sugars (especially fructose) and unhealthy oils.Healthy fats from sources like olive oil, avocados, nuts, and fatty fish are actually beneficial for liver health. Myth 2: Fatty liver is harmless ❌ False – Many think fatty liver is not dangerous.✅ Truth – Once fat exceeds 5% of liver weight, it can cause inflammation, scarring, and even liver failure. Myth 3: Supplements are the main treatment ❌ False – Supplements alone cannot reverse fatty liver.✅ Truth – Diet and exercise remain the most effective treatments. How to Prevent Fatty Liver Disease 🔎 Bottom line: Fatty liver disease is not harmless, not caused simply by eating fat, and cannot be cured by supplements alone. A balanced diet, exercise, and weight control are the true protectors of liver health.

Turakapalem Deaths: Naidu Declares Health Emergency, Opposition Slams Govt Over Negligence

Guntur (Andhra Pradesh): Alarmed by a spate of mysterious deaths in Turakapalem village, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has declared a health emergency and ordered urgent medical intervention. Over the last two months, around 20 villagers have died of an unidentified illness, sparking fear and panic. Reviewing the crisis, Naidu directed health officials to: Officials have briefed the CM that melioidosis virus is suspected, with blood samples sent for lab confirmation. Results are expected within three days. Transmission from cattle to humans is being investigated, as villagers largely depend on animal rearing. The illness is known to spread in rainy and waterlogged conditions, particularly among farmers. Naidu emphasized that no new cases should emerge and instructed continuous monitoring to prevent further deaths. Opposition Blames Govt The crisis has triggered a fierce political row. The unfolding situation in Turakapalem has raised urgent concerns about public health preparedness, water safety, and rural healthcare systems in Andhra Pradesh.

WHO lifts global emergency status on mpox, Africa CDC still flags regional threat

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has announced that the spread of mpox (monkeypox) in Africa no longer represents a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), citing sustained declines in cases and deaths. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Friday that the agency’s Emergency Committee, which has been reviewing the outbreak every three months, advised lifting the designation. “This decision is based on sustained declines in cases and deaths in Congo, and in other affected countries, including Burundi, Sierra Leone, and Uganda. We also have a better understanding of the drivers of transmission and most affected countries have developed a sustained response capacity,” Tedros noted. However, Tedros cautioned that the move does not mean the threat is over. “Lifting the emergency declaration does not mean our response will stop,” he said, stressing the risk of continued flare-ups. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has separately declared that mpox remains a continental emergency, pointing to fresh surges in Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Zambia, and Tanzania despite an overall 52% decline in weekly confirmed cases. Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease with early symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes, and later widespread rashes. While most patients recover within weeks, severe illness and deaths can occur, especially among young children and people living with HIV. Since May 2022, more than 100 countries have reported mpox cases. WHO first declared the outbreak a PHEIC in August 2022, the agency’s highest level of health alert.

Allahabad HC Raises Concern Over Safety of Women in Gyms, Seeks Details on Registration

Allahabad High Court has expressed serious concern over the safety and dignity of women clients being trained by male trainers in gyms without adequate safeguards. The observation came from Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav while hearing an appeal filed by Nitin Saini, a gym trainer from Meerut, accused of using caste-based slurs against a woman client. The matter will now be heard on September 8. The victim, in her statement before the trial court, alleged that Saini had also prepared obscene videos of another woman client and sent them to her. Taking note of these allegations, the court remarked that the acts may attract offences under Sections 354 (assault or criminal force to outrage the modesty of a woman) and 504 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace) of the IPC. In its order dated August 27, the high court directed the Investigating Officer of Police Station Brahmpuri, Meerut to submit a personal affidavit specifying: Calling it a matter of “serious concern,” the court underlined the need for safeguards to protect women clients during gym training sessions.

Study Reveals Beta-Blockers May Be Risky for Women After Heart Attack

Beta-blockers, long considered a cornerstone drug for heart patients, may actually put some women at higher risk after a heart attack, according to a major international study. Key Findings About the Study Why Are Women Affected Differently? Experts suggest several factors: Dr. Andrew Freeman (National Jewish Health, Denver) noted: “Gender has a lot to do with how people respond to medication. Some of it is size, some of it is biology, and some factors we still don’t fully understand.” Why Beta-Blockers Are Prescribed But they also carry side effects: fatigue, low blood pressure, slow heart rate, mood changes, erectile dysfunction (in men). Impact on Future Guidelines Dr. Valentin Fuster, senior study author, said: “These findings will reshape international clinical guidelines… and should spark a long-needed, sex-specific approach to treatment.”

Natural Ways to Support Brain Health After 30

The world is moving at a faster pace than ever, and so are our lives. In this environment, staying healthy has never been more important. Many people are turning to natural ways to enhance their well-being — especially since, after the age of 30, the body’s needs begin to change and demand more mindful care. Scientific research continues to show how certain nutrients and lifestyle choices can support brain health, sharpen memory, and improve overall mental well-being. Here’s a look at some natural compounds and habits that experts suggest can make a real difference. Homecooked Meals: A Simple Key Nutritionists consistently emphasize the power of homecooked meals. Freshly prepared foods, with balanced portions of protein, whole grains, healthy fats, and vegetables, provide the brain with a steady supply of essential nutrients — far better than highly processed or fast food. Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi) A revered Ayurvedic herb, Bacopa Monnieri — or brahmi — has long been used to boost memory, reduce anxiety, and support restful sleep. Ginkgo Biloba One of the oldest herbal supplements, Ginkgo Biloba has been used for centuries to enhance brain function. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Essential for brain structure and performance, Omega-3s — especially DHA and EPA — are found abundantly in fatty fish like salmon, as well as walnuts and chia seeds. Phosphatidylserine A fatty acid naturally concentrated in brain tissue, Phosphatidylserine plays a vital role in cellular function and communication. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) A derivative of amino acids, Acetyl-L-Carnitine supports brain energy metabolism and protects against age-related decline. Final Word While supplements and herbs show promise, experts stress that a holistic lifestyle matters most — including balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, physical activity, stress management, and strong social connections. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement or treatment plan.

Silent Liver Disease MASLD Linked to Heart Failure Risk

Millions worldwide are unknowingly at risk of heart failure due to a “silent” liver disease called Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD). This chronic condition affects over a quarter of the global adult population, and in India, one in three adults or children may have it. The absence of obvious symptoms makes MASLD particularly dangerous. What is MASLD? Formerly known as Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), MASLD is the most common liver disease globally. It occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver, leading to inflammation and scarring over time. How MASLD Causes Heart Failure A Duke University study (published in the European Journal of Heart Failure) found a strong link between MASLD and heart failure: Doctors stressed the urgent need for early screening and diagnosis to prevent symptomatic heart failure in MASLD patients. Early Signs of MASLD MASLD develops slowly and often without symptoms. However, some warning signs may appear: When to See a Doctor According to the British Liver Trust, seek immediate medical help if you notice:

Delhi reports 412 dengue cases so far in 2025; MCD steps up anti-mosquito drive

The national capital has recorded 412 dengue cases till August 23, 2025, slightly lower than the 425 cases reported in the same period last year, and less than half of the 942 cases registered in 2023. No fatalities have been reported so far, according to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). MCD Standing Committee Chairperson Satya Sharma said large-scale measures are being implemented across all zones to prevent vector-borne diseases. Nearly 3,000 Domestic Breeding Checkers (DBC) workers and 2,000 field workers have been deployed in “mission mode.” To strengthen field operations, 4–6 hand fogging machines have been allotted to each ward, while a special inspection team at headquarters is monitoring progress. DBC workers are conducting door-to-door checks and health education, and field staff are spraying insecticides in drains and stagnant water. So far, 26.7 million houses have been inspected, of which 137,043 were found positive for mosquito breeding, and 879,364 houses have been sprayed. The MCD is also enforcing legal action under the Malaria Bye-laws, having issued 98,976 notices this year.

Mediterranean diet may slash dementia risk by 35% in high-risk gene carriers: Study

Closely following a Mediterranean diet can significantly lower the risk of dementia — even in people most genetically vulnerable to Alzheimer’s, according to a 34-year study published Monday in Nature. Researchers at Mass General Brigham tracked over 5,700 people and found that those who ate a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, legumes, fish and olive oil — and low in alcohol and red/processed meat — had a sharply reduced risk of dementia. The effect was especially striking in people with two copies of the APOE4 gene, the strongest known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s. For them, risk fell by at least 35%. Lead author Yuxi Liu said people with APOE4 may have distinct metabolic profiles that respond dramatically to healthy nutrients: “Improving metabolic function through diet might explain, or at least partially explain, the huge fall in dementia risk we saw.” Neurologist Dr. Richard Isaacson, who was not involved, called the results “stop the presses” findings: “Genes do not have to be your destiny… If dementia risk can be cut by 35% through diet, imagine the impact when combined with exercise, sleep, and stress management.” Wider evidence Lifestyle impact Evidence is mounting that combining diet with exercise, stress reduction and good sleep habits brings the greatest benefit. In one clinical trial, an APOE4 carrier showed reduced amyloid and tau proteins and even growth in hippocampal brain volume after a year of lifestyle changes. Research threat The study drew on decades of data and samples from the Nurse’s Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, both landmark projects. However, researchers warn their future is at risk after federal funding was cut during the Trump administration’s feud with Harvard. Without support, decades of bio-samples may be discarded. “It’s like burning the Library of Congress — you just can’t get that back,” said study nurse Martha Dodds.

B for Brain, B for B-Complex: The Overlooked Nutrients That Power Your Mind

Is it just a coincidence that “B” stands for both brain and B-complex? Probably not. Science suggests the connection runs deep. While vitamins B6 and B12 usually get all the spotlight for brain health, research reveals that the entire B-complex family—including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B7 (biotin), and B9 (folate)—plays crucial roles in fueling, protecting, and sustaining the brain. Even renowned neuroscientist Robert W.B. Love, known for his Alzheimer’s prevention work, agrees that these nutrients are far more than supporting players. Let’s unpack how B-complex vitamins nourish your brain, what the science really says, and how you can bring them into your daily meals without relying solely on supplements. Beyond B6 and B12: Why the Full B-Complex Matters The eight water-soluble B vitamins form the brain’s energy and resilience toolkit: 👉 A large meta-analysis showed that folate intake was significantly linked to lower dementia risk, and B-vitamin supplementation overall slowed cognitive decline. What the Research Shows Food First: How to Eat Your B-Complex The good news? You don’t need pills to fuel your brain—nature packs B vitamins into a wide variety of foods: Smart Ways to Add Them Daily Think of your brain as an explorer that thrives on diversity. Feeding it a colorful, balanced mix of whole foods gives it the full B-vitamin power team—no extra capsules required.

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