Latest news with #HanaPatel
Daily Record
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Record
Exactly how often towels should be washed and it's not what many householders think
Experts have given an exact washing schedule for your bathroom towels How often do you wash your towels? It's a topic that fuels debate with some people washing after one use and others leaving it for far longer. Are you guilty of getting another use out of them before they hit the laundry pile? Now experts have weighed into the debate and shared exactly how often the much-used bathroom item should be laundered. And, if the results of one recent survey are anything to go by, it's far more often that a lot of householders think. Rubbish clearance experts at Clear It Waste looked into the items in the home that are the dirtier than the toilet seat and one thing they found was that that can be our towels. It has been estimated that over 200,000 different species of microbes (including bacteria and fungi) can be in a home at any time. The average home contains thousands of different types of bacteria, but Brits might be horrified to find out some of their everyday items are dirtier than a toilet seat. Clear It Waste teamed up with Dr. Hana Patel, NHS GP and GP Medico-Legal Expert Witness, who adds expert insight into hidden bacteria and their potential health implications. And the seemingly innocuous bathroom towel is a hotbed for breeding bacteria. Studies have found that a third of people only wash their towels once a month, but this may not be enough. Bathroom towels are often left in damp, warm bathrooms, meaning they have the perfect environment for bacteria and mould growth. Many believe them to be clean as they are used to dry clean hands, but germs and mould can thrive on our damp towels, and the dampness itself could create problems, as Dr Hana Patel explained. And Clear Ut Waste said that shower towels should always be washed once a week at a minimum. That equates to roughly every three to five uses, they estimate. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Dr Patel said it is important to follow this rule even if you think your towels are clean. She said: "There are possibly millions of mould species on earth. The rare species that cause diseases do so by triggering allergies or asthma, or may be involved in hypersensitivity diseases. "Even if visible mould is not present, dampness alone can increase the risk of health problems. Excessive moisture can promote the growth of microorganisms such as mould and other fungi, certain species of house dust mites, bacteria or viruses. "Most people come into contact with the substances produced by damp and mould by breathing them in. This means they predominantly affect the airways and lungs. Damp and mould can cause disease and ill health in anyone, but people with underlying health conditions, weakened immune systems are at greater risk of ill-health from damp and mould." Other items that are often dirtier than the loo seat include the kitchen sponge. The washing up staple can be home to thousands of bacteria. Bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella can thrive on sponges, potentially causing infection. It is recommended to replace your sponge every one to two weeks as needed, or when the sponge begins to look worn. Toothbrush holders and cases are also the perfect moisture trap for bacteria growth. Toothbrushes are often damp when placed in the holder, making it a moist environment with the potential for mould growth if not frequently cleaned. They can also be exposed to airborne bacteria in the bathroom, such as that from toilet flushing which can release fecal particles. Dr Patel said: "Toothbrushes which are kept in air conditions have less bacteria than those which are kept closed, and the bacterial growth is 70% higher in wet and protected environments." It is instead advised to ensure your toothbrush is dry before putting it in the holder, and ensure that you clean the holder regularly to prevent mould and bacteria build up. Avoid putting the holder inside an enclosed cupboard or container, as this will trap moisture, limit ventilation, and promote mould and bacteria growth. And reuseable bottles are another culprit These bottles are often moist, providing a breeding ground for bacteria from the user's mouth, food particles, and hands. Without regular and sufficient cleaning, these bacteria can lead to illness. It is advised to ideally wash these bottles daily, to avoid any bacteria growth or moisture build up. Pay particular attention to hard to clean areas such as straws and small crevices, as this is where bacteria can grow if not adequately cleaned.
Scottish Sun
12-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
‘Fairytale' Scottish loch named one of UK's best wild swimming spots as temperatures soar
Read on to find out the lesser-known health benefits of wild swimming DIVE IN 'Fairytale' Scottish loch named one of UK's best wild swimming spots as temperatures soar Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A "FAIRYTALE" Scots loch has been named in a list of the UK's best-kept wild swimming secrets. As temperatures soar this weekend, many of us will be looking to cool off and recharge our batteries. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 A "fairytale" loch has been named in a list of the UK's best wild swimming spots Credit: Alamy 3 Loch an Eilein in the Cairngorms is a picturesque bolthole with a castle Credit: Alamy 3 Researchers described it as a "serene haven" for visitors Credit: Alamy New research from Icelandair revealed 71 per cent of Scots need time in natural surroundings each month to support their mental health. For those seeking peace away from the crowds — from mountain lakes to quiet countryside rivers — the study uncovered 10 of the UK's most secluded wild swimming spots. A stunning Scottish loch described as a "serene haven" came in at second place in the list. Loch an Eilein in the Cairngorms is a picturesque bolthole complete with a 13th-century island castle. It is no surprise the beautiful location was voted Britain's Best Picnic Spot. Researchers said: "Set within the ancient pine forests of the Cairngorms National Park and overlooked by the ruins of a 13th-century castle, Loch an Eilein is a serene haven. "Surrounded by nature and with few crowds, its low visibility online makes it a well-kept secret for Scottish wild swimmers. "Just pack a wetsuit — summer temperatures here rarely rise above 12 C." Llyn Gaslyn in Snowdonia, Wales, took the top spot and was hailed as an "untouched mountain lake". Icelandair spoke with Dr Hana Patel, a UK-based GP, who outlined five lesser-known health benefits of wild swimming: Exploring the UK's Natural Wonderlands: Top 5 National Parks 1. Activation of Brown Fat Cold water activates brown adipose tissue, a type of fat that burns calories to keep you warm. Unlike white fat, brown fat may help regulate body weight and improve metabolic health, making wild swims a natural metabolic booster. 2. Hormetic Stress Adaptation Wild swimming is a form of hormesis — a mild stressor that strengthens the body's response to bigger stress. Just like lifting weights or fasting, it challenges your system to adapt, making you more resilient over time, both physically and mentally. 3. Improved Sleep Quality After a wild swim, the body tends to cool down and regulate circadian rhythms, promoting deeper sleep. Many regular cold-water swimmers report falling asleep faster and waking up feeling more refreshed. 4. Enhanced Lymphatic Drainage The contraction and relaxation of muscles in cold water — combined with hydrostatic pressure — stimulates the lymphatic system, helping to flush out toxins and reduce swelling or bloating. 5. Increased Skin Circulation & Glow Cold water boosts skin blood flow, leading to a healthy flush and improved skin tone. Some swimmers also report clearer skin, potentially due to reduced inflammation and natural exfoliation from mineral-rich waters.
Tom's Guide
28-06-2025
- Health
- Tom's Guide
Sleep experts reveal the 5 biggest nighttime routine mistakes that are ruining your sleep
A good night's sleep starts long before you climb into bed, but you could also be disrupting your sleep with nighttime routine mistakes too. From helping you wind down mentally to preparing your body for rest, evening rituals can make a big difference to how well you sleep and how you feel the next day. But while many of us have adopted a meditation routine or swear by cutting screen time, there are common mistakes that could be sabotaging your sleep without you realising it. To find out where you could be going wrong, we spoke to four sleep experts about what your nighttime routine should really look like, and the biggest mistakes they see people making. Your circadian rhythm, essentially your internal body clock, is surprisingly sensitive and can be easily disrupted by factors like light exposure, stress and screen time. These disruptions can interfere with your natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep. That's why establishing a consistent nighttime routine is so important. 'Establishing a regular nighttime routine is beneficial for people of any age, including adults,' says Dr. Hana Patel, the Resident Sleep Expert at Time4Sleep. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. 'Creating a routine with a regular bedtime helps to develop a regular sleep-wake cycle and rhythm, which will programme your body to sleep better during the night, helping you to feel more rested during the day.' We've asked the experts about the biggest nighttime routine mistakes they've seen and how they can ruin your sleep. Here are the top mistakes.. Even when your body feels exhausted, your internal clock will find it difficult to fall asleep if you don't keep your bedtime and wake times consistent. 'Going to bed at drastically different hours confuses your internal clock, making it harder to fall asleep naturally,' says naturopathic physician Dr. Trevor Cates. 'A consistent routine supports the body's natural circadian rhythm, which governs our sleep-wake cycles.' If you currently have a very late wake-up and bedtime and struggle to change it, try to adapt your bedtime over a few weeks, gradually resetting your sleep schedule, rather than trying to force your body into a new bedtime. It's so tempting to look at that last WhatsApp message or scroll endlessly on your phone at night, but this habit could be affecting your sleep. 'The most common vice I hear from my patients is their inability to turn off screens before bed,' says sleep expert Dr. Chelsea Perry. 'Even if they think they're doing a good thing by reading in bed, if it's on a phone or tablet, the blue light is interrupting the brain's ability to 'turn off' and get into the proper sleep cycle.' You should allow at least three hours for your food to digest, so if you're getting in from the gym at 8 pm and not eating until 9 pm, your body is still processing it as you climb into bed. So, why is this? 'Heavy meals near your bedtime can disrupt digestion and blood sugar balance, leading to restless sleep or early waking,' says Dr. Cates. Try and finish your dinner around 7pm, and that means any evening snacks too. If you're struggling, follow the 10-3-2-1-0 rule. We're definitely not going to discourage you from going to the gym, or for that evening run, but make sure you leave yourself enough time to wind down before you go to sleep. 'Overstimulating activities, like intense workouts or stressful conversations could spike cortisol and adrenaline, which can keep the brain alert well past bedtime,' Dr. Cates says. Instead, opt for a gentle walk or some yoga. This will help you wind down and clear your mind ready for bed. If you want more tips, check out our guide on how to exercise for better sleep. If you've met friends for dinner and still have conversations buzzing in your head, it could impact your sleep, says sleep coach Chevy Mermelstein. 'Going straight from an active, social evening to bed leaves your nervous system buzzing instead of calm,' she explains. Making sure you have time to wind down, with some chilled music, reading or meditation can help to calm your nervous system. Everyone is different and will benefit from different bedtime habits. But below are some tips for developing the right nighttime routine for you. If you know that sleep is going to bring on anxiety, find a calming activity that works for you. We're all different, so if the thought of doing yoga doesn't appeal to you, try something that you know will help your body and mind calm down. 'Relaxation techniques such as meditation or journaling help reduce stress and lower blood pressure and heart rate,' explains Perry. Most of us need between 7–9 hours of sleep each night to give our bodies enough time to move through the full sleep cycle, including deep sleep and REM (rapid eye movement) stages. These stages are crucial for both physical and mental restoration, helping everything from muscle repair and immune function to memory consolidation and emotional regulation. Our body thrives on rhythm. 'Going to bed and waking up at roughly the same time daily (even on weekends) helps train your circadian rhythm for deeper, more efficient sleep,' Dr. Cates explains. However, it's important to find a sleep schedule that works for you. If you're a night owl, going to bed too early could leave you lying awake for hours. On the other hand, if you're a morning person, you may naturally start winding down by 10pm. Understanding your sleep patterns can make it easier to fall asleep and wake feeling rested. 'Creating a regular routine, both before bed and during the day, helps us to form good daily habits and feel more productive and focused,' explains Dr. Patel. Dr. Perry goes on to recommend a warm shower or bath before bed, as it 'causes a drop in body temperature after getting out, which is an internal signal for sleep onset.' Making sure your sleep environment is conducive to sleep is also a great habit to get into. 'Dimming room lights and turning off overhead lighting helps signal to your brain that it is getting later in the evening, and a natural release of melatonin will be triggered,' she adds. For Dr. Cates, a 'cool, dark, quiet bedroom' is important as it 'sends a strong signal that it's time for sleep.' 'Consider blackout curtains, a white noise machine, or an eye mask for added support,' he advises.
Daily Record
19-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Third of Brits are skipping SPF on this crucial body part as expert warns 'do not ignore'
We might think we're covering every area with SPF but it turns out we're overlooking one key body part Sunshine is finally breaking through the UK skies after a period of heavy downpours, wind, and thunderstorms. Even when the sun is behind the clouds, though, it is important to protect our skin by wearing a good SPF. The UK weather offers little certainty, and with the summer holidays approaching, travellers may be actively seeking destinations with guaranteed sunshine, where, after lathering on the sun cream, they can kick back and relax. New research from Saga Holidays, found that 68 per cent of Brits surveyed consider beach temperatures a key factor when choosing a holiday. There's a reason for this - a little sun is quite literally what the doctor ordered. Pharmacist Carolina Goncalves says moderate sun exposures "helps your body produce serotonin, the 'feel-good' neurotransmitter that lifts your mood and brings a sense of calmness". However, the research from Saga Holidays and Carolina also revealed that almost a third of Brits are making a crucial mistake by not protecting the delicate skin on one part of their body from the sun. It turns out the most common mistake Brits make when using SPF is overlooking the lips. In fact, almost a third of Brits fail to protect their lips with SPF lip balm, whilst just one in four do so. To ensure we are enjoying the sun safely and maintaining a healthy sun exposure balance, Carolina has teamed up with GP Dr Hana Patel to reveal their top tips for how to protect our skin. Health experts' top tips for safely making the most of the sun Protect your lips "The skin on the lips is thinner and more delicate, so use an SPF 30 lip balm or higher," Carolina urged. "If you do get burnt, a thin layer of aloe Vera gel or petroleum jelly will soothe." As mentioned, only one in four Brits consistently protect their lips with SPF lip balm – and 30 per cent never do this. Regularly apply sunscreen- even if it's 'water-resistant' "Even if your SPF is 'water resistant', reapply lotion straight after you have been in water, after towel drying and sweating," Patel advised. Alarmingly, less than half (45 per cent) of Brits say they always reapply sunscreen - but one in ten never do this. Take regular breaks during peak UV hours Carolina warns to take regular breaks between peak UV hours (10am-3pm), yet only 39 per cent of Brits always do this and one in seven (14 per cent) never take breaks during peak times. In a separate report, Yinka Ebo, Senior Health Information Officer at Cancer Research UK explained: "We all need some sun to keep us healthy, but it's important to stay safe when the sun is strong and take care not to burn. "In many cases sunburn actually happens in the UK, often when people are out and about. The sun's rays can be strong enough to burn in the UK from around April to September. "You can protect yourself and your family from sunburn by using a combination of shade, clothing and at least SPF 15 sunscreen when enjoying the sunshine." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Daily Record
13-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Best sleep positions for back pain and snoring, according to experts
The way you sleep could be having a bigger impact on your health than you realise - from back pain to snoring, certain sleep positions can help to alleviate symptoms We all have a favourite way to nod off, be it curled up on our side, flat on our back, or face-down in dreamland. But could the position we sleep in be affecting our health? While most of us are aware that seven to nine hours of sleep is recommended for adults, the posture we adopt during slumber might be just as crucial for our health. From alleviating backache to cutting down on snoring, the importance of sleep posture on our overall health may be more significant than previously thought. So, does one sleeping position outshine the rest for health benefits? We've consulted with the experts to find out. Do certain sleeping positions exert more pressure on our joints? Dr Hana Patel, an NHS GP and sleep specialist at Time4Sleep, sheds light on how different sleeping positions affect us: "Different sleeping positions generate different surface contact, putting pressure on various joints," she says. "The three basic sleep positions – supine (lying on your back), side, and prone (lying on your front) – require different types of support when it comes to your mattress." She warns that some positions, like lying on your stomach, can lead to spinal stress and result in back pain due to lack of support. Does the way you sleep influence back pain? "Sleep is massively important for recovery, regeneration and injury prevention, but for those living with back pain it can feel impossible to get the optimum eight hours per night," acknowledges Mr Michael Fatica, lead osteopath and co-founder of Back in Shape Program. "To make matters worse, back pain and sleep are interconnected, with some research showing that insufficient sleep can exacerbate problems, so it can feel like an unwinnable battle for many sufferers." Which sleeping positions should be avoided by those suffering from back pain? "If you have back pain, you should try to avoid lying face down to avoid increased pressure on your spine and neck," advises Patel. "Instead, try sleeping in one of two positions; the first is on your side with the knees drawn up, and the second is on your back with a small pillow underneath the back of the knees to maintain the natural curve of the lower back." Are there any sleeping positions that aid breathing? "If you have breathing issues like sleep apnoea, then your symptoms may be worse when lying on your back because gravity can cause the tongue and soft palate to fall back and narrow the airway," explains Patel. "Try sleeping on your side to combat this." Is there a universally best sleeping position? "There is no perfect position for good quality sleep that I would recommend, as it often differs from person to person," says Patel. "The NHS generally recommends not to sleep on your front as you are more likely to move out of the midline position and strain your neck. "Several studies show that sleeping on the right side is associated with improved sleep quality, like fewer awakenings in the middle of the night. Another study has found that sleeping on your left side is associated with less acidity and reflux symptoms." In certain situations, such as pregnancy, the NHS does suggest a specific sleeping posture. "For example the safest position to go to sleep while pregnant is on your side, either left or right," says Patel. "This helps to improve the flow of blood and oxygen to the baby, and is safer for both it and the mother." What factors are more important for sleep quality than sleep position? Evening activities can greatly enhance sleep quality, particularly for those experiencing back pain. "If you're sedentary, move more in the crucial 'two hour' window before bedtime," advises Fatica. "Go for a walk, make a drink, perform some light stretches such as some simple hip flexor and hamstring stretches." Stress is another significant factor that can affect how well you sleep, adds Fatica. "Establishing a relaxing bedtime routine will help your mind and body wind down," suggests Fatica. "This could include reading a book, listening to calming music, or practicing meditation or deep breathing exercises." Moreover, selecting the right mattress is crucial to a good night's sleep. "There aren't bad mattresses, just old mattresses," Fatica notes, pointing out that it's not about hard versus soft mattresses. "Ultimately, it's what best allows you to sleep with your spine in a neutral position – everybody is different." For those battling insomnia, consider an additional cushion for comfort. Fatica recommends: "For optimal spine alignment and to help alleviate pain, simply placing a pillow between the knees can significantly help when sleeping on the side, it can also be used to make sure your neck is aligned properly if you have thinner pillows".
