Latest news with #JagadishHiremath
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Inemuri: Does this Japanese method of napping help boost productivity?
In Japan, the concept of 'Inemuri' has gained attention as a unique practice of napping that may sound unusual to many. The term directly translates to 'sleeping while present' and refers to the act of napping in public or during work hours. Often seen in offices, on trains, or in other public spaces, the Inemuri nap is considered a cultural norm rather than a sign of laziness. This practice has sparked curiosity around whether it offers a solution for those who find themselves sleep-deprived. With many people struggling to get adequate rest, the idea of napping strategically to boost productivity and mental clarity is gaining popularity. But can Inemuri truly help improve energy levels, or is it just a fleeting solution for a bigger sleep problem? Dr Jagadish Hiremath, public health intellectual, tells 'Inemuri naps can offer short-term relief for sleep-deprived individuals by allowing brief moments of rest during active participation in daily routines, such as meetings or public commuting. Unlike traditional naps taken in a private setting, Inemuri emphasises adaptability — individuals remain mentally prepared to re-engage with their surroundings quickly.' Dr Hiremath adds that inemuri usually involves light, non-REM sleep stages, which can improve alertness and cognitive function without inducing sleep inertia (the grogginess experienced after waking from deep sleep). 'A study published in Nature Neuroscience shows that even short periods of light sleep can enhance memory consolidation and focus,' he says. While regular naps aim for deeper restorative benefits, Dr Hiremath notes, Inemuri prioritises practicality, making it less effective for long-term recovery from significant sleep debt. The effectiveness of Inemuri naps largely depends on their duration and timing. 'Research suggests that naps lasting 10–20 minutes are ideal for improving alertness and reducing fatigue without disrupting nighttime sleep. Short naps help rejuvenate the body and mind, providing a quick boost of energy without the risk of feeling groggy afterward,' states Dr Hiremath. However, longer naps, ranging from 30 to 90 minutes, risk entering deeper sleep stages, which can lead to sleep inertia. Dr Hiremath states, 'Sleep inertia refers to the groggy, disoriented feeling some people experience after waking from a deep sleep. This can hinder the benefits of napping and make it harder to regain full alertness.' Inemuri's cultural practice allows for varying nap lengths, from just a few minutes to longer periods, depending on the individual's environment and schedule. The practice is quite flexible, allowing people to adjust the duration to suit their needs. However, it is most effective when aligned with the body's natural circadian rhythm, particularly during mid-afternoon energy slumps. Some drawbacks according to Dr Hiremath are: DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Indian Express
28-04-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Five myths about reversing grey hair you need to stop believing
The internet is filled with quick fixes and bold claims, and one trending topic is reversing grey hair. Countless methods are touted as miraculous solutions to restore your natural hair colour online. But how many of these remedies are actually effective? Dr Jagadish Hiremath, public health intellectual, tells 'With countless claims circulating online about reversing grey hair naturally, it is crucial to approach such information critically.' Can grey hair truly be reversed naturally, or are these claims largely unfounded? 'The reversal of grey hair is highly unlikely in most cases,' notes Dr Hiremath. Grey hair results from the depletion of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, which gives hair its colour. As melanin production decreases due to aging or genetic factors, hair loses its pigmentation. This process is considered irreversible under normal circumstances. However, there are exceptions, as stated by Dr Hiremath: Reversible Causes: Grey hair caused by stress, nutritional deficiencies, or illness can sometimes regain pigmentation if the underlying issue is resolved. For instance, a study published in eLife (2021) showed that removing chronic stress partially restored pigment in some individuals' hair. Permanent Greying: Age-related or genetic greying involves irreversible damage to melanocyte stem cells, making natural reversal impossible. 'The biology of hair greying underscores its permanence in most cases, as melanocyte depletion is rarely reversible,' the doctor highlights. Some myths regarding reversing grey hair online Dr Hiremath describes the myths regarding reversing grey hair that he has come across online: Myth 1: Onion juice can reverse greying Debunked: There is no credible evidence supporting the idea that onion juice can restore melanin production. A review in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual (2020) highlights that onion juice has no proven effect on pigmentation. Myth 2: Coconut oil and lemon juice can restore hair colour Debunked: While these may condition hair, there is no biochemical pathway linking coconut oil or lemon juice to melanin restoration. There is no credible evidence supporting the idea that onion juice can restore melanin production. (Source: Freepik) Myth 3: Collagen supplements prevent greying Debunked: While collagen supports hair structure, it does not influence melanin production or reverse greying. Claims suggesting otherwise lack scientific backing. Myth 4: Avoiding shampoo prevents greying Debunked: Shampoo has no impact on the melanocytes in hair follicles. This is misinformation spread by influencers promoting 'natural' lifestyles. Myth 5: Eating certain herbs restores hair pigment Debunked: No herb has been proven to regenerate melanocytes. Claims around 'miracle herbs' are anecdotal and unverified. Dietary changes or supplements that have a significant impact on grey hair While diet can support hair health, Dr Hiremath stresses that reversing greying isn't possible through food or supplements. However, certain nutrients may delay its progression, he says: Vitamin B12: Supports melanin production, found in meat, fish, eggs, and fortified cereals. Copper: Essential for melanocyte function, found in nuts, seeds, and shellfish. Antioxidants: Combat oxidative stress, found in berries, green tea, and spinach. Iron: Supports hair pigmentation, found in lentils, red meat, and leafy greens. Zinc: Supports hair follicle health, found in nuts, seeds, and seafood. Caution against misinformation: Dr Hiremath asserts, 'Many social media influencers promote false claims about reversing grey hair, leading to wasted time and money. Rely on peer-reviewed research and accredited professionals instead of unverified miracle cures. Greying is natural, driven by genetics and age, and while stress or deficiencies may accelerate it, no solution can fully reverse it. Prioritise a healthy lifestyle and credible scientific advice.'
