Latest news with #AsimCheema
Express Tribune
20-07-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Fee discount draws Lahore Zoo visitors
Lahore Zoo visitors park their motorbikes at a stand. Citizens flocked to outdoor recreational spots after rainfall turned the weather pleasant on the weekly holiday. photo: nni Tourist interest in the Lahore Zoo has witnessed a resurgence following the government's decision to take over its management and introduce discounted charges. Over the past four days, the zoo has recorded a total income of Rs13.569 million, with more than 135,000 people visiting the facility. The zoo had previously been managed by a private contractor responsible for ticketing, parking, and other facilities. However, on July 16, the contractor relinquished the contract, prompting the zoo administration to assume full control. Since then, the administration has introduced a 50 per cent discount on tickets for several attractions, including the Reptile House, which has contributed to a steady rise in daily footfall. Speaking to the media, Zoo Director Asim Cheema said that the increasing number of visitors reflected the public's renewed trust and growing popularity of the facility as an affordable and family-friendly recreational venue. He credited the boost in revenue and attendance to better management practices, transparency, online ticketing systems, improved parking, and a welcoming environment for families. According to the zoo's record, July 17 brought in Rs618,000 in revenue, including income from ticket sales, the Snake House, and parking. On July 18, earnings were recorded at Rs535,880. By July 19, interest had surged significantly, resulting in a total income of Rs984,010. The upward trend peaked on Sunday, when the zoo registered its highest single-day revenue in recent times, reaching Rs1.731 million. The administration also revealed that several key attractionsincluding the Hall of Wonders, virtual and mixed reality experiences, and the aquariumwill soon be reactivated. The features, currently under preparation, are expected to help increase the revenue in the coming weeks.
Daily Mirror
14-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Anyone who uses a baby pram urgently told 'please check' by doctor
Medical expert warns parents to check pram temperatures as heatwaves intensifying and lasting longer Mums and dads have been issued an urgent alert as the UK continues to bake in hot summer weather. A UCLA-led study revealed that the world 's heatwaves are not only intensifying but also lasting longer than ever before. Heat-health alerts have been in force as parts of the UK endured temperatures of up to 34C over the last few days. Fresh concerns have been raised over the dangers of babies overheating inside enclosed prams, where temperatures can quickly soar far beyond outdoor levels in hot weather. "Heat-related medical emergencies affect people of all ages, but babies are especially vulnerable because they're unable to regulate their body temperature like adults," Dr Asim Cheema, internal medicine specialist at Your Doctors Online, explains. "Being closer to hot pavements increases their heat exposure, and their smaller body size means they can overheat far more quickly." He added: "Combine that with their inability to express discomfort, and it's vital for parents to recognise the early warning signs of heat-related illness." Dr Asim Cheema is encouraging parents to check their prams regularly to ensure the health of their children. When you're checking prams in hot weather, make sure there's enough airflow and shade to keep things cool. Don't cover the pram with blankets or cloths that can trap heat; instead, go for a clip-on sunshade or parasol. Keep an eye on your baby's temperature by checking their chest or the back of their neck. Hidden dangers of summer pram walks Prams can act as heat traps. Interior temperatures can reach 8-10C higher than the surrounding air. Dark-coloured prams can exceed 43C when air temperatures hit 32C. Heat builds up within just 10–15 minutes of direct sun exposure. Early warning signs parents may miss Initial fussiness followed by unusual quietness (early sign of heat exhaustion). Skin that feels hot and dry rather than sweaty. Rapid, shallow breathing, often mistaken for excitement. Refusing feeds, which can rapidly worsen dehydration. What does Dr Cheema advise? "Before heading out, check the pram surfaces; if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your baby. Avoid walking when temperatures exceed 29C and opt for shaded routes whenever possible," he said. "Limit sun exposure to 10–15 minutes at a time, regularly check your baby's chest or the back of their neck for signs of overheating, and carry plenty of fluids. If your baby shows signs like fussiness, hot, dry skin, or extreme tiredness, move them to a cooler place, remove excess clothing, offer fluids, and seek medical advice immediately if symptoms continue." The NHS says: "Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it's too hot, there are health risks. During heatwaves, more people than usual get seriously ill or die. If hot weather hits this summer, make sure it does not harm you or anyone you know."
Metro
30-06-2025
- Health
- Metro
Why people taking antidepressants should be careful taking the Tube this summer
If you're travelling on the Tube this summer, you're probably already hot, sweaty and miserable. But if you're on antidepressants, you might also be at risk of overheating. The hottest temperature ever recorded on the London Underground is up for debate. TfL's official statistics recorded 33.1C on the Victoria Line in August 2024. Ask any commuter down there during a heatwave, however, and they'll tell you it feels more like the burning gates of hell. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), used to treat anxiety, depression and panic disorders, are generally considered safe and effective. But they come with a major side effect that's often overlooked: heat intolerance. These common medications can affect the body's ability to regulate temperature, putting people at higher risk of heat exhaustion, especially in sweltering environments like the London Underground. Last year, more than 8.7 million adults were prescribed antidepressants, according to NHS data. Social media is filled with thousands of people's experiences with them, good and bad. And one common complaint in summer is the heat. Some have said they've been 'melting' and 'overheating', while temperatures have been hitting 30C, while others compare it to being 'burnt alive'. 'Taking antidepressants doesn't mean you can't enjoy summer, but it does mean you mean you need to be extra cautious during extreme heat,' Dr Asim Cheema, an internal Medicine and Cardiology specialist at Your Doctors Online, tells Metro. Dr Cheema explains that certain antidepressants, including SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors), can impair the body's ability to regulate temperature. 'Some affect the hypothalamus (which controls temperature regulation), while others reduce sweating, making it harder for the body to cool down naturally,' he explains. 'This can increase the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and even heatstroke during periods of high temperature.' Dr Cheema says this can occur when taking commonly prescribed SSRIs, like Sertraline and Fluoxetine, SNRIs, like Venlafaxine and Duloxetine, as well as tricyclic antidepressants, like amitriptyline. 'Antipsychotics, beta blockers, diuretics and some antihistamines can also affect heat tolerance,' he adds. If you're travelling to work on sweltering public transport, spending most of the day outside, or just trying to enjoy the sun, there are some common signs of heat exhaustion to look out for. Dr Nikita Kanani, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at Aneira Health, tells Metro, this can include dizziness, nausea and heavy sweating. Dr Kanani advises 'acting quickly' if you spot any of these symptoms. He suggests moving to a cooler place, sipping water slowly and using a fan or a damp cloth to cool down. He adds: 'Avoid pushing through your symptoms, listen to your body and importantly, talk to your doctor if symptoms persist – you may need to adjust when you take your medication or review alternatives.' To protect yourselves during the heat, he suggests avoiding direct sun exposure during the hottest part of the day (between 11am and 3pm). 'If you're out, wear a hat, use SPF, and take breaks in the shade. Planning outdoor time for early morning or evening can help reduce risk.' And for those braving sweltering public transport, he advises planning ahead where possible. 'Travel outside peak times, carry water, wear breathable clothing, and use a hand fan. More Trending 'If you feel faint or unwell, get off at the next stop, find somewhere cool, and rest. Never ignore symptoms – overheating can happen quickly.' Dr Kanani adds that while common, this side effect can often be overlooked and isn't routinely discussed. He adds: 'Especially when medications are first prescribed in the cooler months or if someone is starting treatment for the first time. It can also be underestimated in clinical consultations, where the focus is understandably on mental health support. 'As heatwaves become more common, we need to talk more openly about how medication affects our health in real-world conditions – especially for women and people with long-term conditions.' If you're taking antidepressants or any medication that makes you more susceptible to heat, Dr Asim Cheema advises the following: Recognise warning signs: Headache, nausea, confusion, or feeling faint can all signal heat-related distress, which is more likely if you're on certain medications. Stay well-hydrated: Dehydration can worsen side effects like dizziness or lightheadedness. Dress lightly: Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothes. Plan ahead: If you know you'll be on the Tube or in another hot environment, carry water, use cooling towels, and if possible, avoid peak travel times. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ View More » Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
New York Post
05-05-2025
- Health
- New York Post
What really makes #SkinnyTok so dangerous, according to docs
SkinnyTok fans are literally starving for content. The disturbing viral movement promotes extreme weight-loss tactics, restrictive eating and toxic 'discipline' — with thinness, not health, being the ultimate goal. Experts have warned The Post that it's far from a harmless fad, fueling viewers' mental and physical health issues — while not actually fueling their bodies. And thanks to TikTok's algorithm, it may be even more dangerous than more than diet culture ever was before. 4 Experts broke down the biggest dangers of #SkinnyTok in chats with The Post. Nomad_Soul – Down the rabbit hole The trend is gaining traction across all social media platforms. But on TikTok alone, over 64,000 posts are dedicated to the troubling trend — and that's not including the ones that don't include the #SkinnyTok hashtag but still find their way to interested users. What makes SkinnyTok particularly dangerous is TikTok's algorithm, which is designed to deliver a glut of related content once you start watching and engaging with it. 'These algorithms are a powerful driver of content that iterates upon itself. Looking at one TikTok with toxic body image content will teach the algorithms to send you more and more and more until your feed has become an avalanche of toxic content,' Dr. Jillian Lampert from the Emily Program, a national eating disorder care provider, told The Post. According to research published last year, just eight minutes of exposure to implicit and explicit pro-anorexia TikTok content can damage a young woman's self-esteem and increase her risk of disordered eating. TikTok's guidelines state that the app 'does not allow showing or promoting disordered eating and dangerous weight loss behaviors,' and at first glance, the platform appears to discourage this trend. Searching 'SkinnyTok' prompts the message: 'You are more than your weight,' along with links to eating disorder resources. However, just below these links is a deluge of videos that offer 'thin-spiration' and hacks to suppress hunger, skip meals and manage starvation. 4 What makes SkinnyTok particularly dangerous is TikTok's algorithm, which is designed to deliver a glut of related content. tashatuvango – The physical downsides While it is possible to use the algorithm to curate more positive content, Lampert notes that sensational messaging is more compelling. 'SkinnyTok content is particularly dangerous because it presents extreme and medically unsound weight loss methods under the guise of health and wellness,' Dr. Asim Cheema, an Internal Medicine specialist at Your Doctors Online told The Post. 'Hunger isn't a sign of fat burning but a crucial biological signal for nutrition. Ignoring it leads to metabolic problems, harder weight management, malnutrition and cognitive issues.' Dr. Asim Cheema 'This trend often reaches audiences who may not have the tools or knowledge to easily tell apart credible health advice from practices that could be misleading or even harmful.' Some of these harmful practices include misinterpreting or responding inappropriately to the body's natural hunger signals. 'Hunger isn't a sign of fat burning but a crucial biological signal for nutrition. Ignoring it leads to metabolic problems, harder weight management, malnutrition and cognitive issues,' said Cheema. What's more, hyperfixating on deprivation makes eating more of a punishment than a pleasure. 'Viewing food as mere fuel neglects important social and psychological aspects of eating, often resulting in food guilt, social anxiety and orthorexia — an unhealthy obsession with 'correct' eating,' said Cheema. 4 Experts say SkinnyTok is a rebrand of early-2000s 'pro-ana' (pro-anorexia) communities — now with a Gen Z gloss and a dubious veneer of 'wellness.' Getty Images/iStockphoto Dangerous advice SkinnyTok content often champions extreme fasting and promotes the practice of eating a single meal per day, habits that can wreak havoc on the body. 'One-meal-a-day approaches cause dangerous metabolic shifts, including hypoglycemia, muscle loss and organ dysfunction. These practices trigger harmful starvation responses that damage metabolism,' said Cheema. 'SkinnyTok dangerously glorifies content that encourages people to take drastic measures to change their bodies.' Dr. Jillian Lampert Using coffee and water to suppress appetite is another hallmark of SkinnyTok influencers; however, as Cheema explains, overdoing either beverage can trigger dangerous electrolyte imbalances like hyponatremia, increase acid reflux, exacerbate digestive problems and heighten anxiety. 'SkinnyTok both dangerously glorifies content that encourages people to take drastic measures to change their bodies as well as further ensnares people already struggling with their body image and thoughts of size and shape, reinforcing the notion that being thin at all costs is the norm,' said Lampert. Teens are particularly vulnerable to SkinnyTok because they're wired to seek approval and belonging — and their development can be derailed by food deprivation. 'Growing bodies require consistent, balanced nutrition that these restrictive practices don't provide. Nutritional deficits during critical growth periods can impact physical development and cognitive function,' said Cheema. 4 SkinnyTok content often champions extreme fasting and promotes the practice of eating a single meal per day, habits that can wreak havoc on the body. Getty Images/iStockphoto Some of those physical side effects include hair loss, brittle nails, compromised immune function, brain fog and difficulty concentrating. A return of 'pro-ana' culture Experts say SkinnyTok is a rebrand of early-2000s 'pro-ana' (pro-anorexia) communities — now with a Gen Z gloss and a dubious veneer of 'wellness.' 'Dangerous behaviors marketed as 'wellness hacks' make it difficult for individuals to recognize they're developing serious medical conditions,' Cheema explained. That means they don't realize what they're doing is unhealthy until they've done real damage. According to a 2023 study, a staggering 22% of kids and teens show signs of eating disorders, while the CDC revealed that ER visits among teen girls with eating disorders doubled during the pandemic. That uptick directly coincided with increased social media usage. 'The more people you see doing something, no matter how extreme or counterintuitive … the more likely we are to begin or try that behavior.' Dr. Jillian Lampert Peer validation and virality play a decisive role in normalizing unhealthy habits online, Lampert noted. 'The more people you see doing something, no matter how extreme or counterintuitive, the more encouragement that is aimed at us from peers, the more likely we are to begin or try that behavior,' she said. She believes the increasingly common practice of 'digital self-cyberbullying' also amplifies disordered eating. 'It's someone scrolling for hours through videos and photos, ingesting the messages, images, falsehoods and practices that proliferate on their feed and then comparing themselves to what they are seeing,' she said. 'This yields the conclusion that they are not good enough, thin enough, attractive enough, or motivated enough, which fuels an urge to change their eating and activity behaviors in an attempt to achieve what they see.' For many, these limitations prove too hard to maintain, so they go back to their old behaviors. But others adopt these new habits with an obsessive vigor. 'Continual assessment of appearance and eating habits can make a person hyperfixate on perceived flaws, fueling the cycle of eating less, which often leads to overeating, and overexercising, which leads to fatigue and loss of control around food. It is a vicious cycle that quickly spirals from external messaging to internal criticism.' While the proliferation of disordered eating is clearly fed by social media, awareness continues to improve due in part to transparency around mental health issues and reduced stigma in seeking treatment. Yet the battle rages on. 'There appear to be more people who understand and promote body acceptance, but there also seems to be a resurgence in the prominence of messaging in various media around the drive to thinness. In essence, a growth of both ends of the extreme,' said Dr. Brad Smith, CMO from the Emily Program. More than 28 million Americans are expected to develop an eating disorder in their life, according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. They are the second-deadliest mental illness and result in more than 10,000 deaths every year. If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder, you can get help. Call the National Eating Disorder Association helpline at (800) 931-2237 or visit
Forbes
14-04-2025
- Health
- Forbes
‘SkinnyTok': 3 Ways This Controversial Trend Harms Your Mental Health
A new restrictive eating trend known as "SkinnyTok" is gaining momentum and creating alarm among ... More mental health experts. The 'SkinnyTok' trend is rapidly gaining traction across social media platforms. The trend has 25.7k posts on TikTok, but it's drawing attention for all the wrong reasons. 'SkinnyTok' users are sharing extreme weight loss methods and restrictive eating behaviors disguised as harmless health tips or weight loss hacks. The platform recently banned a major influencer behind the trend, reigniting discussions about the dangers of online beauty standards. It's common knowledge that unhealthy eating habits impede our mental and physical well-being. Experts warn about the weight-loss methods and restrictive eating habits that are damaging mental health and well-being. Dr. Asim Cheema, an internal medicine specialist at Your Doctors Online, sounds the alarm that 'SkinnyTok' raises five serious medical concerns. 1. Teaching followers that feeling hungry is a sign your body is burning fat rather than a natural biological signal 2. Encouraging viewers to see food purely as fuel, stripping away pleasure and social aspects of eating 3. Suggesting dangerous practices like eating only once daily or surviving on minimal amounts of food (often just fruit) 4. Using excessive water, coffee, or other fluids to suppress natural hunger cues 5. Framing these restrictive behaviors as wellness practices rather than what they often are--disordered eating patterns I spoke with mental health expert Stephen Buchwald, speaking on behalf of Manhattan Mental Health, who told me one of the most dangerous aspects of 'SkinnyTok" is the illusion it creates that achieving a certain body type is purely a matter of willpower. "This mindset dismisses the complex realities of genetics, mental health and socioeconomic factors, promoting shame over support. It's a toxic narrative disguised as empowerment,' he explains. According to Maria AbiHanna, a nutrition expert at Food Label Maker, crash diets are a popular go-to before summer, promising quick results just in time for the season. 'But research shows they often work against your body, triggering responses that make weight loss harder, not easier,' she points out. 'People blame willpower when they can't stick with a diet. The truth is that your body is built to resist rapid fat loss. So, the key is working with your biology, not against it.' Despite widespread criticism, experts argue that 'SkinnyTok' cultivates a growing subculture that glorifies extreme thinness and restrictive eating habits. 'Adolescents are neurologically wired to seek approval and belonging, which makes them especially vulnerable to trends like 'SkinnyTok,'' Buchwald notes."When their social validation is tied to appearance and thinness, it creates a harmful psychological feedback loop that can shape their self-worth well into adulthood.' 'While some users praise its weight-loss content, many experts warn of its damaging effects, particularly on young people's self-esteem and body image,' he says. 'Recently, a major influencer behind the trend was banned from TikTok, sparking discussions about the long-term impact of social media on mental well-being.' Buchwald, warns that the rise of 'SkinnyTok' highlights how deep-rooted body image issues remain and that repeated exposure to this type of content can contribute to some of the following mental health problems: 1. Increased Anxiety and Depression. Constant comparison to unattainable beauty standards can lead to anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. 'Seeing curated, unrealistic images of thinness on a daily basis can make people feel like they're never 'good enough.' This creates a cycle of self-criticism and low self-worth, which can escalate into anxiety and depression.' 2. Disordered Eating Behaviors. Exposure to extreme dieting advice can encourage restrictive eating habits. "Research shows that even just eight minutes of viewing 'thinspiration' content can negatively impact body image. These trends don't just normalize unhealthy behaviors—they make them seem desirable. For many, this is a gateway to disordered eating, which can have severe physical and psychological consequences.' 3. Body Dysmorphia and Negative Self-Perception. The constant flood of idealized body images can distort how individuals see themselves. 'The more time people spend engaging with these trends, the more they internalize these unrealistic standards. This can lead to body dysmorphic disorder, where individuals fixate on perceived 'flaws' that aren't even noticeable to others.' While social media isn't going away, Buchwald shares ways to take online precaution and safeguard your mental health: 1. Curate Your Feed Mindfully. "Muting or un-following harmful accounts can make a big difference. Be intentional about the content you consume. Follow creators who promote balanced, healthy perspectives on body image and self-care.' 2. Be Critical of Online Narratives. 'Not everything on TikTok is fact-based or healthy. Always question the motivations behind viral trends. If something encourages extreme behaviors, it's worth asking: who benefits from this narrative, and how does it make me feel?' 3. Seek Professional Support. "If social media is negatively affecting your mental well-being, reaching out to a therapist can help. You don't have to navigate body image struggles alone. Therapy provides a safe space to unpack these pressures and develop healthier self-perceptions.' Buchwald asserts that, while platforms like TikTok have taken steps to regulate harmful content, individuals must remain aware of how these trends affect their well-being. As he puts it, 'Your self-worth isn't defined by a trend. Prioritizing mental health over social media validation is the most powerful decision you can make.' He cautions that social media platforms have a responsibility to recognize that their algorithms are not neutral. 'They amplify content that maximizes engagement, regardless of its psychological harm,' he cautions. "Until these systems are held accountable, the burden unfairly falls on users to navigate a minefield of damaging content.' If you want to heal from body image issues, it begins with redefining what makes you valuable. Buchwald insists that when people shift the focus from aesthetics to holistic self-worth, they start to develop resilience against harmful trends like 'SkinnyTok.' If you or someone you know is struggling with body image concerns, professional support can be a valuable step toward healing. Get help by contacting the National Eating Disorders Association.
