What is Dietary Fibre? Primarily present in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, fibre is known for its capability in alleviating or preventing constipation. However, fibre-rich foods offer additional health advantages, including aiding in weight management and reducing the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Dietary fibre, alternatively termed roughage or bulk, includes the indigestible portions of plant-based foods. Unlike fats, proteins, or carbohydrates, which are broken down and absorbed by the body, fibre remains undigested, travels through the stomach, small intestine, and colon before being eliminated from the body mostly intact. Fibre is divided into two types:...
What is vitamin D deficiency? Insufficient levels of vitamin D in your body indicate a deficiency, which primarily affects bone and muscle health. Vitamin D is crucial for normal bone development and maintenance, and also supports the nervous, musculoskeletal, and immune systems. You can get vitamin D in a variety of ways, including: Exposure to sunlight on your skin may not be sufficient for people with darker skin tones or older individuals to obtain adequate vitamin D. Additionally, geographical location can limit sunlight exposure necessary for vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D can also be obtained through dietary sources and supplements....
What Is Inflammation? Inflammation is a complex biological response triggered by the body's immune system in response to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. It is a crucial defence mechanism aimed at protecting the body and promoting healing. When the body detects an injury or threat, white blood cells, particularly leukocytes, along with various signalling molecules and proteins, are mobilised to the affected area. These immune cells help to neutralise and remove the harmful agents, repair damaged tissue, and initiate the healing process. The inflammatory response typically involves several interconnected processes: Vasodilation and Increased Permeability: Blood vessels...
Understanding the structure of the immune system is important for maintaining optimal health. This robust defence mechanism protects the body against external threats and internal changes. In this guide, we'll explore the functions of the immune system and learn practical ways to strengthen it for overall well-being. The Immune System's Functions: Fighting Microbes: The immune system vigilantly addresses disease-causing microbes like viruses, fungi, bacteria, or parasites, expelling them from the body. Counteracting Internal Changes: It detects and combats alterations in the body that may lead to diseases, including cancer. Fighting Toxins: The immune system identifies and battles toxins and harmful...