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Health Lite Blogs

Addressing Sleep Deprivation

Women worrying more, sleeping less: In 2024, the report revealed that 9% more women have been sleeping well past the ideal bedtime when compared to men…reports Asian Lite News

On the morning of this year’s World Sleep Day, Wakefit.co, one of India’s largest D2C sleep and home solutions providers, urges people to go #BackToSleep. Why? Turns out the revelations unearthed in the 7th edition of its Great Indian Sleep Scorecard (GISS) 2024 point to alarming indications of deteriorating sleep quality across the country. 

The report revealed that in 2024, 58% of Indians went to bed after 11 pm. Concurrently, the report also indicated that close to half of India woke up feeling tired in the mornings.  Moreover, 88% of people wake up multiple times during the night, while 1 in 4 Indians believe they have insomnia given their inability to sleep well. Prevalence of digital exposure as well as rising stress levels seem to enhance India’s sleep woes, social media and OTT emerged as the top reasons for 54% of Indians staying up beyond the ideal bedtime, and a whopping 88% reported using their phones just before bedtime. Additionally, over 30% of people stay up worrying about their future late at night. Interestingly, while 31% of India believe that a better mattress and consistent sleep routine will help improve the quality of sleep, another 38% believe that avoiding digital devices will do the trick. 

As the largest sleep study with close to 2.5 Lakh Indians’ responses garnered across 7 years and 10,000+ responses this year, the GISS study unveils significant insights into the sleep patterns of Indians. The report also delves into crucial observations and trends across various age groups, genders, and demographic segments.

The key findings and observations from the survey are elucidated below.

Midnights in metros: The GISS report paints a vivid picture of the nocturnal landscape across urban India, revealing sleep habits and trends as diverse as the cities themselves. The report revealed that half of Gurugram’s population and around 46% in Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata stay up beyond the ideal bedtime, with 61% in Gurugram waking up feeling tired. Social media keeps 43% of Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru residents up late. Work pressures cause late nights for 33% in Chennai, Gurugram, and Hyderabad, the highest in India among all other cities. Delhi leads in workday sleepiness at 60%, with others averaging 55%. Chennai uniquely reports a 72% higher trend of sleeping outside conventional beds. While 33% of Chennai, Delhi, and Kolkata believe in the power of a better mattress to improve the quality of sleep, 36% of Bengaluru and Mumbai felt a consistent sleep routine will do so. 

Women worrying more, sleeping less: In 2024, the report revealed that 9% more women have been sleeping well past the ideal bedtime when compared to men. This could be one of the reasons contributing to a significant 20% higher morning tiredness among women vs. men. Further compounding the issue is a 50% higher incidence of women waking up more than 3 times at night when compared to their male counterparts.  Additionally, the concerns that keep them awake are notable, with a 20% higher incidence of women staying up late, worrying over future uncertainties than men. These insights not only reflect the complexity of sleep experiences among women but also hint at the broader implications of lifestyle, stress, and perhaps societal roles on their sleep health.

Gen Z and millennials ditch gadgets, Gen X love their mattresses: The GISS report revealed intriguing age-related sleep patterns across different age groups. A notable 48% of individuals aged 18 to 30 went to bed post 11 pm, highlighting a trend towards later bedtimes in this age group. Gen X isn’t immune to the lures of late-night screen time either, with 42% admitting to doom scrolling into the wee hours. The concerns of under-18-year-olds are palpable, as 43% of them reported being burdened by anxieties about the future. Solutions to these sleep challenges vary by age, with 37% of 18-30 year-olds believing that keeping digital devices at bay before sleep will enhance sleep quality, while 33% of those above the age of 45 lean towards the comfort of a better mattress. The impact of these disrupted sleep patterns is felt the next day, with a staggering 65% of Gen Z and millennials reporting sleepiness during work hours, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to address these diverse sleep challenges. 

Commenting on The Great Indian Sleep Scorecard 2024, Chaitanya Ramalingegowda, Director and Co-founder of Wakefit.co, said, “In an era where the boundaries between day and night are increasingly blurring, the findings from the latest Great Indian Sleep Scorecard 2024 serve as a critical reflection of our collective sleep health. This year’s findings revealed a notable point where 42% of Gen X have reported doom scrolling late at night. As we navigate through the digital age, the challenge before us is not merely to address the symptoms of sleep deprivation but to redefine our relationship with technology, work, and well-being.”

He added, “At Wakefit.co, we believe in the power of research-led educational content, packaged in byte-sized, digestible formats. The Great Indian Sleep Scorecard, with seven editions and close to 2.5 Lakh respondents,  has been a flagship research report, helping us in our endeavor to create awareness about sleep health. We aim to build a future where sleep is not sidelined but celebrated as the third pillar of health, in addition to nutrition and exercise.”

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Health

Al Qassimi Hospital Performs Innovative Heart Procedure on Infant

Dr. Khalid Khalfan Sabet, Assistant Director for Medical Affairs, commended the expertise of the Cardiac Center’s medical team which distinguished itself with such an outstanding medical procedure…reports Asian Lite News

The medical team at the Cardiac Center of Al Qassimi Women’s and Children’s Hospital, an Emirates Health Services (EHS) facility, achieved a milestone by receiving a 10-month-old infant with a hole in the heart ventricle, also known as ventricular septal defect. The infant was transferred from Fujairah Hospital for a non-traditional surgical procedure due to multiple health complications associated with the defect.

The doctors successfully performed a life-saving open-heart surgery on the child, closing the hole using a new technique through minimally invasive surgery. This approach serves as an alternative to the traditional method that involves creating an incision in the middle of the chest cavity.

The medical team avoided the traditional surgery method involving chest bone incision, instead opting for a procedure through a small opening under the child’s right arm. This approach keeps the surgery concealed and less visible in the future, enabling the child to lead a better quality of life. Recovery in such medical techniques contributes to swift recuperation post-surgery, reducing the hospital stay duration for patient care.

Dr. Khalid Khalfan Sabet, Assistant Director for Medical Affairs, commended the expertise of the Cardiac Center’s medical team which distinguished itself with such an outstanding medical procedure. He stated that the leadership of Emirates Health Services honored the doctors involved in this case as this surgery is considered one of the outstanding and innovative medical procedures involved in complex pediatric cases, particularly in young patients.

Dr. Sabet emphasized the efforts and proficiency of the Cardiac Center team and the collaboration of all medical and technical staff across various hospital departments, which played a significant role in the success of this operation. Their collective efforts helped alleviate the child’s and their family’s suffering, aligning with the strategic goals of Emirates Health Services to provide top-notch healthcare services to patients.

Dr. Hamza El Nadi, Consultant pediatric cardiac surgeon, highlighted the significant impact of such congenital heart defects in children, emphasizing their grave threat to infants’ lives. He pointed out that the occurrence rate of these cardiac defects in newborns reaches 1%, and in such cases, the innovative medical procedure contributed to solving the child’s problem and reducing the recovery period, allowing the infant to leave the hospital on the third day after the procedure.

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Health Lite Blogs

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Colon Cancer Prevention

There has been a concerning trend of colon cancer affecting young people in recent years. While traditionally, colon cancer has been associated with older individuals, there’s been an evident increase in diagnoses among younger adults…reports Asian Lite News

Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. The colon and rectum are parts of the digestive system, responsible for processing food and eliminating waste. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), it is the second most prevalent cause of cancer-related deaths globally and the third most common cancer globally, making up around 10% of all cancer cases.

It typically develops from abnormal growths called polyps, which may initially be benign but can become cancerous over time. These polyps can grow along the inner lining of the colon or rectum, and if left untreated, may invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis.

There has been a concerning trend of colon cancer affecting young people in recent years. While traditionally, colon cancer has been associated with older individuals, there’s been an evident increase in diagnoses among younger adults.

Dr. Manish Sharma, Sr. Medical Oncologist at Action Cancer Hospital, New Delhi and Medical oncologist at Cancer Care Clinic Faridabad said, “While there are certain hereditary predispositions to colon cancer, external factors are most likely to blame for the significant rise in incidents. A person’s risk of acquiring colorectal cancer is increased by smoking, having inflammatory bowel disease, eating poorly, being obese, and drinking excessive alcohol”.

The rise in colon cancer incidence among younger adults underscores the importance of raising awareness about the disease’s signs and symptoms. While symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss are often associated with colon cancer, they can be overlooked or attributed to other causes in younger individuals. Heightened awareness and proactive screening are essential for early detection and treatment.

Dr. Manish Sharma suggested a few lifestyle modifications that can reduce the risk of colon cancer:

Reduce your intake of red meat: Colon cancer has been linked to heavy red meat consumption, especially when it comes to processed or burned meats. While cooking, it may affect the production of compounds that cause cancer because of its high fat and protein content. The processing or cooking techniques used on red meat, such as grilling or smoking, may also be related. When cooked at such high temperatures, they can produce carcinogens linked to cancer. Instead, switch to plant protein and lean protein meals like fish and chicken are two other great sources of protein.

Eat less sugar: Frequent intake of sugar-filled beverages has been linked to a higher risk of developing breast and colon cancer, among other cancers. Consuming a lot of sugar can increase insulin resistance and obesity, two conditions that increase the chance of developing several cancers. Furthermore, the metabolism of sugars may contribute to the proliferation of cancer cells. Dr. Sharma notes that while research has been done, the results are conflicting about whether artificial sweeteners raise the risk of cancer. Just as he advocates consuming sugar in moderation, he also suggests using artificial sweeteners in moderation.

Eat a lot of fibre: There are many advantages to including fibre in our diet, such as lowering constipation, controlling blood sugar surges, and strengthening heart and intestinal health. Additionally, it can lower the chance of developing colon cancer. Dietary fibre has several important roles in colon cancer prevention according to a 2018 review of studies. These roles include promoting better bowel movements and lowering the quantity of carcinogens created during digestion.

Cut down on alcohol: The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention states that alcohol consumption raises the risk of mouth and throat, colon and rectum, liver, and breast cancers, among other cancer types. The National Cancer Institute states that even moderate drinking is linked to an elevated risk of colon cancer. This is because alcohol is broken down by the body into the chemical acetaldehyde, which destroys cell DNA and may allow cells to start multiplying uncontrollably, which is how malignant tumours originate.

Dr. Manish Sharma concludes, “The increasing incidence of colon cancer among younger people is a multifaceted issue that demands attention from healthcare providers, policymakers, and the general public. By addressing lifestyle factors, increasing awareness, and expanding access to screening and preventive services, we can work towards reversing this alarming trend and reducing the burden of colon cancer on younger generations.”

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Food Health Lite Blogs

Healthy Indulgence for IPL Fans

Watching your waistline but still craving a match-winning meal? The Pantry has you covered. Their diverse menu offers a variety of healthy and delicious options, catering to various dietary needs…reports Asian Lite News

Cricket fever is all set to grip the nation with the IPL 2024 around the corner! Hosting the IPL screening party at one’s house has become the latest trend and itself is a celebration of its kind. No celebration is complete without sumptuous food. Thanks to the existence of cloud kitchens that deliver delicious food to our doorstep.

So, whether you are craving some spicy chicken wings, cheesy pizzas, or indulgent desserts, here’s a list of cloud kitchens to go for an unforgettable match-watching session.

Woodside Burger Shop

Calling all cricket fanatics! Celebrate big wins with Woodside Burger Shop’s legendary, handcrafted burgers made with never-frozen ingredients. Feeling like a champion? Devour their signature options for a flavor explosion in every bite. Or, explore unique flavors and take your taste buds on an adventure.

The Pantry – Guilt-Free Goodness

Watching your waistline but still craving a match-winning meal? The Pantry has you covered. Their diverse menu offers a variety of healthy and delicious options, catering to various dietary needs. Whether you’re keeping it vegetarian or following a specific dietary plan, The Pantry ensures you don’t miss a single delivery.

Nashville Fried Chicken

Get ready for a fiery yorker with Nashville Fried Chicken! This cloud kitchen delivers the “hottest, sauciest, crunchiest” fried chicken experience straight to your living room. Spice up your game with their signature offerings or take your taste buds on an international adventure with unique flavors. Feeling like a classic player? No problem! They offer timeless favorites for a true powerplay of flavor.

Aglio Pizzeria & Deli

Craving something delicious during a nail-biting match? Aglio Pizzeria & Deli delivers authentic New York-style pizzas and deli delights straight to your home. Whether you’re looking for classic comfort food or something a little fancier, Aglio has you covered. Feeling like an IPL MVP? Explore their gourmet options for a truly championship-worthy experience.

Maiz Mexican Kitchen

Picture this: you’re lounging on your cozy couch, eyes glued to the intense cricket match playing out on your TV screen. The adrenaline is pumping, the excitement is palpable, and suddenly, a wave of hunger hits you. Your mouth waters at the thought of their freshly made guacamole, crunchy salads bursting with flavor, and savory tacos loaded with wholesome ingredients. The mere idea of indulging in their nourishing bowls filled with colorful veggies and protein-packed beans has you practically bouncing with anticipation. With Maiz Mexican Kitchen just a call away for delivery or takeout, satisfying your craving couldn’t be easier – and more delicious!

With their diverse offerings delivered straight to your doorstep. You can focus on cheering on your favorite team and enjoying the electrifying atmosphere of the IPL.

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Business Health India News

India to Enhance Pharma Standards

The new scheme covers all pharmaceutical manufacturing units with a turnover of less than Rs 500 crore…reports Asian Lite News

Department of Pharmaceuticals on Monday announced a wider Revamped Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme in a significant step to help upgrade the technological capabilities of the country’s pharmaceutical industry and ensure its alignment with global standards.

The new scheme covers all pharmaceutical manufacturing units with a turnover of less than Rs 500 crore.

The revised guideline aims to support the pharmaceutical industry’s up-gradation to the Revised Schedule-M & WHO-GMP standards, enhancing the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products manufactured in our country, according to an official statement.

Key features of the revised scheme are:

Broadened Eligibility Criteria: Reflecting a more inclusive approach, eligibility for the Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (PTUAS) has been expanded beyond Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to include any pharmaceutical manufacturing unit with a turnover of less than 500 crores that requires technology and quality upgradation. Preference remains for MSMEs, supporting smaller players in achieving high-quality manufacturing standards.

Flexible Financing Options: The scheme introduces more flexible financing options, emphasizing subsidies on a reimbursement basis, over a traditional credit-linked approach. This flexibility is designed to diversify the financing options of the participating units, facilitating a more widespread adoption of the scheme.

Comprehensive Support for Compliance with New Standards: In alignment with revised Schedule-M and WHO-GMP standards, the scheme now supports a broader range of technological upgrades. Eligible activities include improvements such as HVAC systems, water and steam utilities, testing laboratories, stability chambers, clean room facilities, effluent treatment, waste management etc. ensuring comprehensive support for participating units.

Dynamic Incentive Structure: Pharmaceutical units have been classified into three categories. Units with a turnover of less than Rs 50 crore will be eligible for an incentive of 20 per cent of investment, while those with a turnover from Rs 50 to 250 crore will get an incentive of 15 per cent of their investment. Units with a turnover of Rs 250 to 500 crore will be eligible for an incentive of 10 per cent.

State Government Scheme Integration: The revised scheme allows integration with state government schemes, enabling units to benefit from additional top-up assistance. This collaborative approach aims to maximize support for the pharmaceutical industry in their technology upgradation efforts.

Enhanced Verification Mechanism: The scheme introduces a robust verification mechanism through a Project Management Agency, ensuring transparency, accountability and the efficient allocation of resources.

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-Top News Health UK News

UK ranks second-worst for mental wellbeing in global survey

The UK scored a low 49 on a Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) scale ranging from -100 (very dissatisfied) to 200….reports Asian Lite News

A new report suggests a global decline in mental well-being, with the UK coming in a concerning second place for the most miserable country.

Sapien Labs, a research group, conducted their annual “Mental State of the World” survey, questioning over 400,000 people in 71 countries. The results show a lack of recovery from the pandemic’s initial mental health toll.

The UK scored a low 49 on a Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) scale ranging from -100 (very dissatisfied) to 200. This placed them just above Uzbekistan, the lowest-scoring country. Notably, 35% of Britons reported feeling “distressed.”

The study interestingly found a correlation between wealth and unhappiness, with richer nations scoring lower. The happiest places in the world, the Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania, are all non-English-speaking developing countries that definitely know how to enjoy life better than many in the developed countries.

Australia, Tajikistan, Brazil, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Uzbekistan are ranked the worst on the list.

Europe and North America performed poorly overall, suggesting a broader trend.

While some might use this report to fuel negativity, the authors urge the UK to see it as a call to action. They point out positive aspects, like London being named Europe’s best city and Glasgow’s top live music scene.

This survey adds to the discussion of mental health around the world.

Mental health is experiencing a widespread decline on a global scale.

While further research might be needed, it highlights a potential need for increased focus on mental wellbeing in many countries, including the UK.

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Health Lite Blogs

First Trimester: A Roller Coaster Ride of Change and Uncertainty

Regular scans are not just medical check-ups; they are windows into the miracle of life unfolding. These scans and tests help healthcare providers assess the health and development of the foetus, detect any potential abnormalities early, and provide appropriate care and counselling to expecting parents…reports Asian Lite News

The first trimester of pregnancy is like stepping onto a roller coaster of change, where the only certainty is the uncertainty that comes with this transformative journey. As the body works tirelessly to create a nurturing environment for the growing baby, a whirlwind of emotions and physical adjustments takes centre stage.

Swapnil Kaushik, the founder of Mom’s Preg-Ladder says, “The surge in estrogen as well as HCG levels, surpassing the production of a non-pregnant lifetime, can lead to mood swings, bloating, nausea, and fatigue. While the baby bump might not be evident, the uterus is expanding, and blood volume is on the rise. It’s a time that brings both excitement and nervousness, and it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed. Seeking support from friends, partners, or healthcare providers becomes a lifeline for expecting mothers as they navigate the complexities of this initial trimester.

As an internationally recognised childbirth educator, certified pregnancy health coach, and recognised expert on maternal and child nutrition coaching by the Government of India, Kaushik offers the following advice to soon-to-be mothers throughout the first trimester:

Knowledge is empowerment

Taking an early pregnancy class can be a game-changer. These classes provide invaluable insights into the changes happening within the body and equip expecting mothers with the knowledge to handle the upcoming challenges. From nutrition tips to coping mechanisms, these classes offer a comprehensive guide to making the first trimester more manageable.

Do get regular scans

Regular scans are not just medical check-ups; they are windows into the miracle of life unfolding. These scans and tests help healthcare providers assess the health and development of the foetus, detect any potential abnormalities early, and provide appropriate care and counselling to expecting parents. It’s essential for expecting parents to discuss with their healthcare provider which scans and tests are recommended for their specific situation.

Take proper rest

While staying active is encouraged during pregnancy, it’s essential to listen to your body. If morning sickness is making the usual routine challenging, don’t hesitate to rest. Also, taking short naps in the afternoon can be rejuvenating and help combat the fatigue that often accompanies the first trimester.

Prioritize well-being

Whether working or not, expectant mothers need to pay attention to various aspects of their lifestyle. Managing travel, reducing stress levels, maintaining a balanced nutrition plan, and staying well-hydrated are key components of ensuring a healthy first trimester and a thriving pregnancy.

Encourage open communication

An open line of communication with both your partner and healthcare provider is crucial. Sharing your experiences, concerns, and joys helps build a strong support system. This communication fosters a sense of togetherness, making the journey through the first trimester and beyond a shared experience.

Cultivate good reading habits

Reading about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting can provide a sense of comfort and preparedness. Books, articles, and reputable online resources offer insights into what to expect, calming fears, and providing practical advice for navigating the challenges of pregnancy.

Meditation and pranayama

As the body undergoes physical changes, it’s equally important to nurture the mind. Incorporating meditation or pranayama into the daily routine can help manage stress, promote relaxation, and create a positive mindset. These practices contribute not only to the well-being of the mother but also to the developing baby.

Start womb talks

Begin the beautiful practice of ‘womb talks.’ While the baby may not understand the words, the vibrations and soothing tones create a unique bonding experience. This early connection lays the foundation for a strong parent-child relationship and introduces the baby to the comforting sounds of their parent’s voice.

Moreover, navigating the first trimester requires a combination of self-care, knowledge, and emotional support. Expecting mothers are not alone in this journey and with the right tools and a supportive network, they can embrace the changes with confidence, paving the way for a healthy and joyful pregnancy.

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Health Lite Blogs

Natural Ways to Boost Energy Levels

Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods can provide the energy your body needs to function optimally. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats in your meals and snacks…reports Asian Lite News

Feeling sluggish or low on energy is a common experience for many people, especially in today’s fast-paced world. While caffeine is often used to combat fatigue, there are plenty of natural alternatives to boost energy levels without relying on stimulants. In this article, Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS and Nutritionist Founder Of Nutracy Lifestyle highlights five caffeine-free ways to enhance your energy and vitality, allowing you to feel more alert and productive throughout the day. 

Get Moving with Exercise: Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to increase energy levels naturally. Exercise helps improve circulation, deliver oxygen and nutrients to your cells, and release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Try to get in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Choose activities you enjoy, such as walking, cycling, yoga, or dancing, to make staying active a fun and sustainable part of your routine. 

Prioritize Quality Sleep: Getting enough high-quality sleep is essential for replenishing energy levels and supporting overall health. Set a regular sleep routine of 7-9 hours each night. To help your body know when to shut down, create a calming and peaceful nighttime routine by turning down the lights, doing deep breathing exercises or meditation, and avoiding screens right before bed.

Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to feelings of fatigue and low energy, so it’s essential to stay hydrated throughout the day. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, and adjust your fluid intake based on factors like activity level, climate, and individual needs. In addition to water, hydrating foods such as fruits and vegetables can contribute to your overall fluid intake. Keep a reusable water bottle with you as a reminder to drink regularly, and flavor your water with fresh herbs, fruit slices, or a splash of citrus for added variety. 

Fuel Your Body with Nutrient-Rich Foods: Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods can provide the energy your body needs to function optimally. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats in your meals and snacks. Avoid relying on sugary snacks and processed foods, which can cause energy crashes and lead to feelings of fatigue. Instead, opt for snacks that combine complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, such as Greek yogurt with berries, whole grain toast with avocado, or nuts and seeds.

Practice Stress Management Techniques: Chronic stress can drain your energy reserves and leave you feeling depleted. Incorporate stress management techniques into your daily routine to help combat fatigue and promote relaxation. Practice mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga to reduce stress levels and increase feelings of calm and well-being. Additionally, make time for activities you enjoy, connect with supportive friends and family members, and prioritize self-care to recharge both mentally and physically. 

Boosting your energy levels naturally doesn’t require relying on caffeine or other stimulants. By incorporating regular exercise, prioritizing quality sleep, staying hydrated, fueling your body with nutrient-rich foods, and practicing stress management techniques, you can enhance your energy and vitality without experiencing the crashes and side effects associated with caffeine consumption. Experiment with these caffeine-free strategies to find what works best for you, and enjoy sustained energy and well-being throughout your day.

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-Top News Health UK News

AstraZeneca plans £650 mn investment in UK

The plans outlined today are the latest step in the wider plan to deliver the long-term change that Britain needs – to deliver a brighter future and improve economic security and opportunity for everyone…reports Asian Lite News

Pharmaceutical firm AstraZeneca on Wednesday outlined plans to invest £650 million in the UK – helping boost the UK’s world leading Life Sciences sector and grow the economy. This significant investment will enhance public health protection and pandemic preparedness.  

AstraZeneca intends to invest £450 million at their manufacturing site in Speke, Liverpool for the research, development, and manufacture of vaccines – building on the site’s current role in supplying the world leading childhood vaccination programme. The new facility will be designed and built to be operationally net zero with power supplied from renewable energy sources.

In a further boost for the UK’s resilience for future pandemics and global health threats, AstraZeneca and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) plan to work in partnership to advance science for developing and evaluating vaccines – using technology from both AstraZeneca’s manufacturing site in Speke and the UKHSA’s Vaccine Development Evaluation Centre (VDEC) at their Porton Down site.

AstraZeneca will also expand its presence at Europe’s largest life sciences cluster in Cambridge with £200 million in investment. The facility will house around 1,000 employees and will be adjacent to its £1.1 billion global R&D Discovery Centre (DISC), which already hosts 2,300 researchers and scientists. These jobs will provide opportunities for people looking to get the skills they need to succeed in life and – with cuts to National Insurance – enjoy more money in their pocket as a result of their hard work.

To drive investment and growth, the UK Government has delivered one of the most competitive business tax regimes of any major economy – sticking to an economic plan to build a stronger economy where hard work is rewarded, and ambition and aspiration are celebrated. Full expensing is one of the biggest business tax cuts in modern British history, giving the UK the most generous regime for capital allowances in the G7 and joint most generous in the OECD.

The plans outlined today are the latest step in the wider plan to deliver the long-term change that Britain needs – to deliver a brighter future and improve economic security and opportunity for everyone. This demonstrates the vast Life Sciences expertise and capability in this country and will further strengthen AstraZeneca’s UK footprint. The company will also open a new manufacturing facility for one of its cancer medicines in Macclesfield later this year, following the announcement of a £380 million investment in 2021.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt said, “To drive investment we’ve delivered one of the most competitive business tax regimes of any major economy, as part of our plan to help our key industries to grow. Our £108 billion Life Sciences sector provides over 300,000 high skilled jobs across the UK and is crucial for the country’s health, wealth and resilience. We are sticking to our plan to make the UK one of the best places in world to invest in developing and manufacturing new, innovative medicines – both protecting public health and growing our economy. AstraZeneca’s investment plans are a vote of confidence in the attractiveness of UK as a Life Sciences superpower and strengthen our resilience for future health emergencies.”

AstraZeneca Chief Executive Officer, Sir Pascal Soriot, said, “AstraZeneca’s planned investment would enhance the UK’s pandemic preparedness and demonstrates our ongoing confidence in UK life sciences.  We will continue to support the UK in driving innovation and patient access, building on the strong foundations which have been put in place. This year marks 25 years since the merger of UK-based Zeneca Group and Swedish Astra AB. We are proud of our British roots and how far we have come over that time – we are now a truly global company that has transformed the lives of millions of patients throughout the world with a relentless focus on science and innovation.”

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Health Lite Blogs

Ultimate Protein Source for Fitness Enthusiasts

Gymgoers and people dedicated to their fitness journeys need a high protein meal to maintain their glucose levels and fulfil their high appetites. Moreover, protein is required for muscle functioning and recovery from exercise…reports Asian Lite News

Our diet is one of the most critical elements of workout and strength training. Nutrition experts emphasize the importance of a high protein intake, especially for fitness enthusiasts. While the conventional belief leans towards non-vegetarian food options like chicken and eggs to fulfil the requirement, seafood is actually an equally rich source of protein.

Shrimp: A nutrient-packed ingredient

Seafood offers a combination of high nutritional value and fewer calorie content, making it a great choice to incorporate into your diet plans if you are on a weight management or strength training journey. While keeping your calories in check, seafood enables you to meet your daily protein requirements. When we think of seafood, salmon, tuna, and crabs often cross our minds. However, shrimp stands out as it not only offers a delightful culinary experience but also a nutrient-packed meal option.

High nutritive value

People who are on weight management, strength training, and body building journeys rely on a healthy, balanced, and well-nourished diet to boost their energy levels. Shrimps are low in calories, carbs, and fat but high in protein, which is essential for muscle recovery and growth. The total fat content in 3 ounces of shrimp is less than 2 grams. 100 grams of cooked shrimp provide 99 kilocalories of energy and 24 grams of protein, making it the ideal ingredient for a healthy diet. As a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, shrimp helps boost cardiac health and brain functioning and even promotes bone health. With its high nutritional quotient, shrimp can be a valuable addition to your diet.

Rich in protein

Gymgoers and people dedicated to their fitness journeys need a high protein meal to maintain their glucose levels and fulfil their high appetites. Moreover, protein is required for muscle functioning and recovery from exercise. Shrimp is one of the healthiest seafood options as you can consume protein without taking in extra saturated fats. It is rich in essential amino acids, which are required for optimal body functioning.

When compared with other foods, shrimp is a lean source of protein. Providing nearly 24 grams of protein per serving, it is definitely one of the essential dietary ingredients for people actively involved in strength training. The high protein content in shrimp makes it one of the best foods for boosting muscle growth, optimal muscle functioning, repair, and maintenance.

Future landscape: Shrimp consumption in India to increase

India is already one of the largest exporters of shrimp to the US and EU. The increasing demand for protein-rich foods and shrimp’s high nutritive value will lead to an increase in its consumption in the country in the future. The Indian shrimp market is projected to grow at a 9.6% CAGR between 2024 and 2032 and touch the 2.12 million ton mark. The rising health awareness and shift towards sustainable farming practices are the major factors that will drive the market’s growth.

Consumption of shrimp keeps you satiated, reduces appetite, and supports weight management. It also boosts overall energy levels and metabolic rates. Its rich protein content and high nutritional quotient further make it a perfect option for people who are on their fitness journeys.

To savour the taste of shrimp and retain its nutritional value, you should consider recipes that require baking, boiling, grilling, or cooking shrimp with little to no oil. Additionally, you can season it with spices, garlic, and herbs, and even add lemon juice to enhance its nutritional benefits. Additionally, you can also sauté it along with vegetables, add it to your salads, prepare dips with it, skew it, and much more.

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