Tag: Health

Chronic headaches can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to focus, work, or even enjoy leisure activities. While occasional headaches are common, frequent and persistent headaches require a proactive approach to prevention. Understanding the causes and implementing lifestyle changes can greatly reduce their occurrence. Here are some effective strategies to avoid chronic headaches and improve overall well-being.
Identify and Manage Triggers
Many headaches are caused or worsened by specific triggers. Keeping a headache diary to track patterns can help pinpoint potential causes. Common triggers include:
– Stress and anxiety
– Poor posture
– Dehydration
– Irregular sleep patterns
– Certain foods and drinks (e.g., caffeine, alcohol, processed foods, artificial sweeteners)
– Sensory overload (e.g., bright lights, loud noises, strong smells)
– Weather changes
Once you identify your triggers, take proactive steps to avoid them. For example, if stress is a major trigger, incorporating relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing can be beneficial.
Maintain Proper Hydration
Dehydration is a common but often overlooked cause of headaches. Ensure that you drink enough water throughout the day, particularly if you consume caffeine or alcohol, as these can contribute to dehydration. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 8 glasses (about 2 liters) of water daily, adjusting for activity level and climate.
Prioritize Sleep Hygiene
Lack of quality sleep can lead to chronic headaches. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night by establishing a consistent sleep routine. Tips for better sleep include:
– Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day
– Avoiding screens (phones, TVs, computers) at least an hour before bedtime
– Creating a comfortable and dark sleep environment
– Reducing caffeine and heavy meals in the evening
Adopt a Healthy Diet
Certain foods and dietary habits can contribute to headaches. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help prevent headaches. Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, artificial sweeteners, and foods high in monosodium glutamate (MSG), as these can trigger headaches in some individuals.
Manage Stress Effectively
Chronic stress is a leading cause of tension headaches. Implementing stress management techniques can help reduce their frequency and severity. Consider activities such as:
– Meditation and mindfulness
– Regular physical activity, like yoga or walking
– Breathing exercises
– Spending time in nature

A single sleepless night can significantly impact the immune system, leading to increased inflammation and a higher risk of chronic diseases. The study conducted by scientists at Kuwait’s Dasman Diabetes Institute, published in The Journal of Immunology, sheds light on the specific mechanisms behind this phenomenon.
The study reveals alarming insights into the effects of sleep deprivation on the immune system. One key takeaway is that sleep deprivation triggers an increase in nonclassical monocytes (NCMs), immune cells that amplify inflammation.
Another is that it leads to inflammation regardless of weight, as these changes occur regardless of a person’s weight, suggesting that even lean, healthy individuals may face inflammatory consequences from poor sleep. What’s more? Sleep deprivation disrupts the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory immune responses, leading to a dominant pro-inflammatory state.
How were samples for the research collected? The research team recruited 237 healthy Kuwaiti adults across a spectrum of body weights and carefully monitored their sleep patterns using advanced wearable activity trackers.
Though previous research established connections between obesity and poor sleep, this new study goes further by identifying specific immune mechanisms that may explain how sleep disruption contributes to chronic inflammatory conditions.
The implications of a sleepless night – from chronic disease risk and immune system vulnerability to cognitive and mood impairment – highlighted how we need to take proactive steps to prioritise sleep and mitigate the risks associated with poor sleep.

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and artery blockages play a significant role in this condition. Blocked arteries can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues. Fortunately, there are natural ways to prevent plaque buildup and maintain healthy arteries. By adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, you can improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and lower your risk of developing heart disease. Here’s how:
Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
A nutritious diet is crucial for keeping your arteries clear and your heart functioning properly.
Increase Fiber Intake
Fiber helps lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and reduces plaque buildup. Include:
– Whole grains (oats, brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat)
– Fruits (apples, berries, oranges, pears)
– Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, broccoli, bell peppers)
– Legumes (lentils, beans, chickpeas)
Choose Healthy Fats
Not all fats are bad for your heart. Choose unsaturated fats, which help reduce cholesterol and inflammation:
– Olive oil, avocado, and nuts (almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds)
– Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids
– Avoid trans fats found in processed foods, fried foods, and hydrogenated oils
Reduce Sugar and Processed Foods
Excess sugar and processed foods contribute to inflammation and high cholesterol. Instead of:
– Sugary drinks, opt for water or herbal teas
– Processed snacks, choose fresh fruits or homemade snacks
Control Sodium Intake
Too much salt raises blood pressure, which can damage arteries over time. Reduce sodium by:
– Choosing fresh, unprocessed foods
– Using herbs and spices instead of salt
Stay Physically Active
Exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation, preventing plaque buildup.
Aerobic Exercises
Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as:
– Walking or jogging
– Cycling
– Swimming
– Dancing
Strength Training
Incorporate strength training exercises twice a week to maintain muscle mass and boost metabolism.
Stay Active Throughout the Day
– Avoid prolonged sitting; take breaks to walk around
– Use stairs instead of elevators
– Stretch regularly to improve circulation
Manage Stress Effectively
Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure and arterial damage. Reduce stress through:
– Meditation and deep breathing exercises
– Yoga and tai chi
– Spending time in nature
– Engaging in hobbies and social activities

Low Glycemic Index (GI) foods are those that cause a slow and gradual rise in blood sugar levels after consumption. The Glycemic Index measures how quickly a carbohydrate-containing food increases blood sugar, with low-GI foods being digested and absorbed more slowly. Diabetics should prioritise low-GI foods because they help manage blood sugar levels, reduce insulin spikes, and lower the risk of complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney issues. These foods are not only beneficial for diabetics but also promote overall health by supporting weight management, improving digestion, and sustaining energy levels. Including a variety of low-GI foods in the diet ensures better blood sugar control and long-term well-being. Read on as we share some below.
1. Oats
Oats are an excellent low-GI food that provides soluble fibre, specifically beta-glucan, which slows digestion and stabilises blood sugar levels. They also help lower cholesterol and keep you full for longer, preventing unhealthy snacking.
2. Chickpeas
With a GI of around 28, chickpeas are a great source of protein, fibre, and complex carbohydrates, making them ideal for diabetics. They promote better blood sugar control, improve gut health, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
3. Quinoa
Quinoa (GI: 53) is a protein-rich grain that contains all nine essential amino acids, fibre, and antioxidants. It provides steady energy, helps control blood sugar, and supports muscle recovery. Quinoa is an excellent substitute for rice in diabetic-friendly meals.
4. Lentils
Lentils have a low GI (around 32) and are packed with fibre and plant-based protein. They help slow the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream, reducing blood sugar spikes. They also aid in digestion and improve heart health when included regularly in the diet.
5. Leafy greens
Leafy greens have an extremely low GI (below 15) and are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They support overall metabolic health, reduce inflammation, and provide essential nutrients without causing blood sugar fluctuations.
6. Nuts and seeds
Most nuts and seeds have a low GI (below 20) and are high in healthy fats, protein, and fibre. They help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce cholesterol levels, and keep hunger in check. A small handful of nuts or adding seeds to smoothies and yogurt can be a healthy snack option.
7. Berries
Berries have a GI of around 25–40 and are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and fibre. They help regulate blood sugar, reduce oxidative stress, and support brain health.
8. Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is a protein-rich dairy option that helps regulate blood sugar while providing probiotics for gut health. It has a lower carbohydrate content compared to regular yogurt, making it an ideal choice for diabetics when consumed unsweetened.

In the realm of essential nutrients, vitamin B12 stands out for its crucial role in keeping the blood and nerve cells healthy, as well as its contribution to DNA synthesis. Yet, many people overlook the importance of ensuring their bodies absorb this vital vitamin effectively. Improving vitamin B12 absorption is a multifaceted process, from dietary choices to lifestyle adjustments.
Deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to fatigue, irritability, confusion, muscle weakness, tingling sensations, and even anaemia.
According to Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician & diabetes educator, vitamin B12 is a water-soluble nutrient necessary for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA production. A lack of sufficient vitamin B12 can impair these processes, leading to both short-term symptoms and long-term complications.
Foods to Include for Better B12 Absorption
Animal-Based Sources
– Organ Meats: Liver and kidneys (especially lamb) are among the richest sources.
– Seafood: Clams, tuna, salmon, sardines, and trout are excellent options.
– Meat: Cuts like poultry provide substantial amounts.
– Dairy: Milk, cheese, and yoghurt contribute significantly.
– Eggs: Especially the yolks, which contain moderate levels of B12.
Plant-Based and Fortified Options
– Fortified Cereals: Many breakfast cereals are enriched with vitamin B12.
– Nutritional Yeast: A favourite among vegans, often fortified with B12.
– Fortified Plant-Based Milks: Varieties like almond, soy, and oat milk commonly contain added B12.

Doctors at Queen Mary University of London, Barts Health NHS Trust, and University College London have led the development of Targeted Thermal Therapy (Triple T), a simple, minimally invasive procedure that has the potential to revolutionise medical management of a common but often overlooked cause of high blood pressure.
This breakthrough could with additional testing, benefit millions of people worldwide who are currently undiagnosed and untreated.
In the UK, Triple T, known scientifically as endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation, was rigorously tested, in collaboration with researchers from University College London, University College Hospital NHS Trust, Cambridge University NHS Trust, and the University of Cambridge.
High blood pressure affects one in three adults, of whom a hormonal condition called primary aldosteronism accounts for one in twenty cases. However, fewer than one per cent of those affected are ever diagnosed.
The condition occurs when tiny benign nodules in one or both adrenal glands produce excess aldosterone, a hormone that raises blood pressure by increasing salt levels in the body. Patients with primary aldosteronism often do not respond well to standard blood pressure medications and face higher risks of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure.
Until now, the only effective cure for primary aldosteronism has been surgical removal of the entire adrenal gland, requiring general anaesthesia, a two-to three-day hospital stay, and weeks of recovery. As a result, many patients go untreated.
Triple T offers a faster, safer alternative to surgery, by selectively destroying the small adrenal nodule without removing the gland. This is made possible by recent advances in diagnostic scans, using molecular dyes that accurately identify and locate even the smallest adrenal nodules. Those in the left adrenal gland are seen to be immediately adjacent to the stomach, from where they can be directly targeted. Source: ANI

Mitochondria are responsible for creating energy, which fuels cells and keeps them functioning. However, mitochondrial abnormalities have been linked to the development of disorders like type 2 diabetes. Patients with this illness are unable to produce enough insulin or use the insulin produced by their pancreas to maintain normal blood sugar levels.
Researchers at the University of Michigan used mice to show that dysfunctional mitochondria trigger a response that affects the maturation and function of b-cells.
Several studies have shown that insulin-producing pancreatic b-cells of patients with diabetes have abnormal mitochondria and are unable to generate energy. Yet, these studies were unable to explain why the cells behaved this way.
“We wanted to determine which pathways are important for maintaining the proper mitochondrial function,” said Emily M. Walker, Ph.D, a research assistant professor of internal medicine and first author of the study.
To do so, the team damaged three components that are essential for mitochondrial function: their DNA, a pathway used to get rid of damaged mitochondria, and one that maintains a healthy pool of mitochondria in the cell.
“In all three cases, the exact same stress response was turned on, which caused b-cells to become immature, stop making enough insulin, and essentially stop being b-cells,” Walker said. “Our results demonstrate that the mitochondria can send signals to the nucleus and change the fate of the cell.”
The researchers also confirmed their findings in human pancreatic islet cells.
Their results prompted the team to expand their search into other cells that are affected by diabetes.
Losing your b-cells is the most direct path to getting type 2 diabetes. Through our study we now have an explanation for what might be happening and how we can intervene and fix the root cause,” said Scott A. Soleimanpour, M.D.

Researchers have developed a weight management programme that helps individuals plan meals with the assistance of a web application and support from a registered dietitian, including tracking fibre and protein content in meals.
Many people struggle to maintain a healthy weight, and choosing the optimal meals for weight loss can be challenging. Most dieting apps available are usually macronutrient calculators, according to the study published in the journal JMIR Formative Research.
“But we want people to focus on finding foods that have a high protein and fibre density to get them to their meal goals. It’s less about counting calories and more about finding the foods that will satisfy us and provide the protein we need to maintain muscle mass as we lose weight,” said Ashleigh Oliveira, a doctoral student at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the US..
“Foods that are high in fibre also have all the micronutrients we need, so we’re not missing out on vitamins and minerals as we’re eating less food,” Oliveira added.
The programme’s first iteration, the Individualized Dietary Improvement Programme (iDip), was an in-person programme where participants received education and feedback from registered dieticians.
Subsequently, iDip was converted to a fully online programme, EMPOWER, to increase accessibility. The researchers tested the program’s efficacy with individuals in rural Illinois.
“The overall goal is to develop an online weight loss programme that can be used as prevention as well as treatment in a clinical setting,” said co-author Manabu Nakamura, associate professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition and the Division of Nutritional Sciences. Souirce: IANS

Vitamin D is the most common deficiency among diabetics, affecting over 60 per cent of people with diabetes, according to a global analysis published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) Nutrition Prevention and Health.
The analysis, based on 132 studies conducted between 1998 and 2023 involving more than 52,000 participants, also found that magnesium deficiency affects 42 per cent of people with diabetes, while 28 per cent suffer from iron deficiency.
Researchers, including those from the Indian Institute of Health Management Research (IIHMR), Rajasthan, said that the study helps assess the global prevalence of micronutrient deficiency—whereby levels of vitamins and minerals essential for healthy bodily function are far too low—in people with type 2 diabetes.
Women with diabetes were found to be at a higher risk of micronutrient deficits, also termed “hidden hunger,” compared to men, the team found.
The authors explained that risk factors for developing diabetes include genetic tendencies, along with environmental factors, such as a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet and obesity.
Studies have shown that micronutrients have a key role in the development of diabetes, by affecting how glucose is metabolised and insulin pathways.
However, this study was aimed to resolve conflicting evidence from previous studies that mainly focused on one specific micronutrient, the authors said.

“The pooled prevalence of multiple micronutrient deficiency (vitamins, minerals and electrolytes) was 45.30 per cent among T2D patients,” they wrote.
Further, the prevalence was found to be higher in women with the condition—at nearly 49 per cent—compared to men.

In recent years, scientific research has increasingly highlighted the benefits of physical exercise on brain function. While much of the focus has been on older adults and its potential to delay cognitive decline, emerging evidence suggests that exercise can also enhance cognition in young adults. This revelation is particularly significant, as it underscores the lifelong benefits of physical activity beyond just physical health.
The Science Behind Exercise and Brain Function
Exercise has long been associated with improved cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and overall well-being. However, its impact on brain function is gaining more attention. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and essential nutrients that support neural activity. Moreover, exercise stimulates the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are crucial for mood regulation and cognitive processes.
One of the most critical benefits of exercise is its role in neurogenesis-the growth of new brain cells. Studies indicate that aerobic exercise, such as running or cycling, promotes the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports brain plasticity and memory formation. This suggests that even young adults, who are in their cognitive prime, can benefit from regular physical activity in terms of enhanced learning, memory retention, and problem-solving abilities.
Benefits for Young Adults
Although cognitive decline is typically associated with aging, young adults can still experience cognitive fatigue, mental fog, and decreased concentration due to stress, poor diet, or lack of sleep. Exercise provides a natural and effective way to combat these issues. Some specific cognitive benefits for young adults include:
– Improved Memory: Regular physical activity has been linked to better recall and retention of information, which is particularly beneficial for students and professionals.
– Enhanced Focus and Attention: Exercise helps increase the efficiency of neural connections, leading to improved concentration and reduced distractions.
– Better Problem-Solving Skills: Engaging in activities that require coordination, such as dancing or team sports, can enhance cognitive flexibility and critical thinking.
– Reduced Stress and Anxiety: The release of endorphins during exercise helps alleviate stress and improve mental clarity.
How Much Exercise is Needed?
The good news is that young adults do not need to engage in excessive or strenuous workouts to reap cognitive benefits. Research suggests that moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes, three to five times a week, can significantly enhance brain function. Activities such as brisk walking, yoga, swimming, and strength training can all contribute to cognitive improvements.

A team of US scientists has uncovered how a molecule found on certain bacteria may drive blood clotting in sepsis — a life-threatening condition that causes about eight million deaths per year.
The team at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) focused on the role of specific blood clotting mechanisms in sepsis.
The findings may pave the way for enhancing treatments for critically ill patients. They found that lipopolysaccharide, or LPS — a molecule found on the surface of certain bacteria like E. coli — can directly activate proteins in the blood that trigger clotting.
This process can both block blood flow and damage vital organs in a chain reaction where proteins in the blood work together to form clots. The researchers found a specific type of LPS, called O26:B6, that is particularly good at setting off this reaction, making it more likely to cause clotting problems.
The research, published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, is based on a study conducted in nonhuman primates. The team found that when bacteria containing LPS entered the bloodstream, it quickly activated the clotting system.
This included coagulating proteins like factor XII, which seems to initiate the clotting process, causing a chain reaction. “People who are born without factor XII are healthy and don’t bleed abnormally,” said Joseph Shatzel, a physician-scientist at OHSU.
“That makes it a great target for therapies — blocking it might help stop dangerous clots without causing bleeding.”
Andre L. Lira, Postdoctoral scholar and lead author of the study, said his research focuses on how the physical properties of bacterial surfaces trigger the clotting system. Sepsis can arise from bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
“Even when we know the bacteria causing the infection, different strains can behave differently,” he said. “By understanding this, we hope to develop precision therapies.” The team is working on experimental treatments targeting factor XII, including antibodies designed to block its activity. Source: IANS

Alzheimer’s disease has limited treatments for its symptoms, but the progression is almost always inevitable. As a result, the scientific community regularly explores lifestyle changes, such as diets or exercise, that can be incorporated earlier to reduce Alzheimer’s risk. A study from the Federal University of São Paulo, published in the Brain Research journal, adds to this ongoing list as the findings revealed the benefits of aerobic exercise for brain health.
The study found that exercise helps in targeting Alzheimer’s disease right from its very biological roots. The study explained the biological basis of the neurodegenerative disease. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the buildup of harmful proteins in the brain, specifically amyloid plaques and tau tangles, along with increased brain inflammation and neuron damage.
The study examined aged rats and made them go through an eight-week aerobic exercise program to understand the effect of exercise on brain health.
The findings were significant. After the exercise program, there was a 76 percent reduction in amyloid plaques and a 63 percent reduction in tau tangles—both harmful proteins—compared to sedentary rats.
Similarly, Alzheimer’s disease is also marked by damage to neurons. However aerobic exercise increased the number of healthy and functioning neurons by 2.5 times.
Even brain inflammation in rats went down by 55-68 percent.
The study further shed light on the benefits of exercise for better brain health. It further talked about how aerobic exercise targets the harmful protein accumulation in the brain and optimizes brain cell interactions.
Furthermore, the study emphasised the role of microglia, the brain’s immune cells, in reducing inflammation and maintaining a healthy environment. It removes ‘cellular debris’ and lowers inflammation. Exercise helps to tap into these cell’s functions. Exercise also regulates iron metabolism in the brain, protecting neurons from iron-related damage.

Cortisol levels may not be rising just on waking up as previously thought, rather they are already on the rise as the body gets ready for the day ahead, according to a new research.
Researchers, led by those at the University of Bristol in the UK, found that cortisol levels increase in the hours prior to awakening as part of the body’s preparation for the day ahead, so waking up may not be as “stressful” as previously thought, they said.
Known as the ‘stress hormone’, cortisol’s levels vary through the day in sync with one’s 24-hour cycle, increasing in response to stress to help the body manage it.
Waking up after a night’s sleep is considered to trigger cortisol production and is termed the ‘cortisol awakening response’—something that has been previously studied in varied contexts, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, obesity and depression.
However, this study, published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, suggests that if cortisol has any relationship with waking up, it is with the factors contributing to the initiation of awakening rather than being a response to it, the authors said.
They added that previous studies analysing the cortisol response have typically assessed saliva samples obtained after waking up, not in the period prior to this.
Consequently, the studies are not able to prove a change in the rate of cortisol secretion over the awakening period, the researchers said.
In this study, the team measured cortisol levels both before and after waking up in over 200 healthy men and women, aged 18-68 years, using an automated system.
“We found no evidence for a change in the rate of cortisol increase in the hour after waking when compared with the hour prior to waking,” the authors wrote.

A new study has found that the composition of the gut microbiome helps in predicting how likely a person will succumb to potentially life-threatening infection with Klebsiella pneumoniae, E.coli and other bugs — and it may be altered by changing your diet.
The group of bacteria called Enterobacteriaceae, including Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, E.coli and others, is present at low levels as part of a healthy human gut microbiome. However, certain catalytic factors such as increased inflammation in the body, or by eating contaminated food these bugs can cause illness and disease. In extreme cases, too much Enterobacteriaceae in the gut can be life-threatening.
Researchers have used computational approaches including AI to analyse the gut microbiome composition of over 12,000 people across 45 countries from their stool samples. They found that a person’s microbiome ‘signature’ can predict whether a person’s gut is likely to be colonised by Enterobacteriaceae. The results are consistent across different states of health and geographic locations.
The researchers identified 135 gut microbe species that are commonly found in the absence of Enterobacteriaceae. It likely protects against infection. The results are published in the journal Nature Microbiology.
Notable among the protective gut species is a group of bacteria called Faecalibacterium, which produces beneficial compounds called short-chain fatty acids by breaking down fibre in the foods we eat.
This seems to protect against infection by a range of disease-causing Enterobacteriaceae bugs.
The researchers suggest that eating more fibre in our diet will support the growth of good bacteria — and crowd out the bad ones to significantly reduce the risk of illness.
In contrast, taking probiotics — which don’t directly change the environment in the gut — is less likely to affect the likelihood of Enterobacteriaceae infection.
Source: ANI

High levels of fluoride exposure has been linked to lower IQ in children. Fluoride is a mineral that naturally occurs in water, soil, and plants. It is added to products to prevent tooth decay and in several over-the-counter drugs.
While fluoride consumption in given range is safe, large amounts of exposure can be dangerous. The US government’s National Toxicology Program (NTP) recently conducted a meta-analysis which highlighted the potential neurodevelopmental risks associated with excessive fluoride exposure.
The study found a statistically significant association between higher fluoride exposure and lower IQ scores in children, raising questions about the balance between fluoride’s dental benefits and its broader health implications.
Low IQ (intelligence quotient) in children refers to a measure of cognitive abilities that are below the average for their age group. IQ tests are standardised assessments designed to evaluate intellectual skills, problem-solving abilities, and reasoning.

In children, low IQ could mean developmental delays in learning basic skills, struggling with communication, not understanding complex concepts or might need support in daily decision-making.
Since its introduction in 1945, fluoride has been a cornerstone of public health efforts to reduce dental cavities, the researchers revealed.
However, the meta-analysis, published in JAMA Pediatrics, evaluated 74 epidemiological studies from ten countries, including India, China, and Mexico, and revealed concerning trends.
Fluoride and IQ Decline: The analysis reported that for every 1 mg/L increase in urinary fluoride, children’s IQ scores decreased by 1.63 points.
High Exposure Threshold: Significant IQ reductions were observed at fluoride exposure levels exceeding 1.5 mg/L in drinking water or urine.
Limited Data on Lower Levels: There was insufficient evidence to conclude whether fluoride levels at or below 0.7 mg/L – the US Public Health Service’s recommended level – have adverse effects on IQ.
Excess fluoride exposure is not a new issue in India. Groundwater in regions like Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan often contains fluoride levels exceeding safe limits.
Dr. Kadam Nagpal, Head of Neuroimmunology at Salubritas Medcentre, explained that this has led to health complications such as dental and skeletal fluorosis and potential neurological impairments in children.
“Excessive fluoride gets deposited in teeth, bones, and soft tissues, altering metabolism. This can impair learning and memory in children,” said Dr. Nagpal.
India’s National Programme for Prevention and Control of Fluorosis (NPPCF) monitors and mitigates high fluoride levels in groundwater. Measures like installing reverse osmosis (RO) plants and raising awareness about fluoride-containing products are some critical components of the initiative.