Latest news with #SignatureGlobalBook
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
5 surprising reasons more and more people are getting Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and no it is not (just) alcohol
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract, primarily affecting the colon and small intestine. This is triggered by body's immune system attacking, and destroying healthy cells in the digestive tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both cause inflammation in different parts of the digestive system. This inflammation damages the lining of the gut, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea, and weight loss, and can be extremely uncomfortable, severely affecting the quality of life. Though common in adults over 30, it can start at any age. However, do you know why IBD occurs? And no, it is just not about alcohol consumption. Let's take a look... Genetics Family history plays a huge role in IBD. Around 20% of people with IBD have a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has the same disease. Scientists have identified more than 200 genetic mutations linked to IBD risk. These genes may affect how the immune system responds to bacteria in the gut, or how well the gut lining protects itself from damage. However, even though your chances of getting IBD is higher if it runs in the family, other factors too play a role, and not everyone will inherit IBD. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like A New Launch That Redefines Luxury – Signature Global SPR Signature Global Book Now Undo Antibiotics Antibiotics too, can increase the risk of IBD. While antibiotics kill bacteria that make you sick, they also affect the gut's protective mucus layer, since the medicine can't differentiate between the two. This mucus acts as a barrier between the immune system, and the trillions of bacteria living in the intestines. According to doctors, antibiotics damage the cells that produce this mucus, making it easier for bacteria to penetrate the gut lining and trigger inflammation. Urban Living City life too, is a factor that contributes to IBD. A study from Spain found that people living in cities were more likely to develop IBD compared to those in rural areas. Urban lifestyles are often quite 'sterile" as opposed to the countryside, making kids less exposed to germs that help in building immunity. In addition to urban living, lifestyle habits such as smoking, diet, and stress play a role. Smoking is known to double the risk of Crohn's disease, although it may have a different effect on ulcerative colitis. Stress is also linked to worsening symptoms, possibly due to the gut-brain connection that influences digestive health. Diet Diet is another important environmental factor in IBD. Studies show that excessive consumption of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats—common in Western diets—can increase the risk of IBD. On the other hand, eating fiber-rich foods seems to protect against the disease. Processed and junk food, that includes burgers, pastas, deep fried food, and all desserts ( high in sugar and unhealthy fats), can contribute towards gut inflammation. While food itself does not cause IBD, certain foods like alcohol, caffeine, and greasy or high-fiber foods can worsen symptoms in some people. A poor diet can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to a condition called dysbiosis, which is linked to IBD development. Medications Besides antibiotics, other medications can increase IBD risk or trigger flare-ups. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen may worsen gut inflammation. Immunosuppressive drugs, used after organ transplants or to treat other diseases, can sometimes cause a form of IBD called secondary IBD. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Time of India
24-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Explore 5 land creatures on Earth that swim better than you imagine
Swimming is often seen as a natural ability unique to marine animals, as they are fully adapted to life in water. However, many land-dwelling species are also capable swimmers, demonstrating remarkable versatility. These animals have evolved specific physical and behavioral adaptations that allow them to navigate aquatic environments effectively while still thriving on land. From strong limbs and streamlined bodies to instinctive paddling movements, these traits enable them to cross rivers, hunt, escape predators, or migrate. Their ability to function in both habitats highlights nature's adaptability and the evolutionary advantages of being skilled in water despite a primarily terrestrial lifestyle. Discover the list of 5 non aquatic animals that are good swimmers too. 5 terrestrial swimmers on Earth Elephant Despite being a non-aquatic animal, the elephant is an excellent swimmer. These massive land mammals are surprisingly graceful in the water. Elephants can swim for long distances without tiring, using their strong legs to paddle and their trunks as natural snorkels to breathe while submerged. They have been observed swimming across wide rivers and even open stretches of sea between islands. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Live the High Life at Signature Global Titanium SPR Signature Global Book Now Undo This ability is not just recreational—swimming helps elephants travel, cool off, and reach food or water sources during migrations. Their buoyant bodies, endurance, and adaptive use of their trunk make them one of the most capable swimming land animals. Source: Wikipedia Tiger Tigers, though primarily land animals, are also powerful and skilled swimmers. Unlike many big cats, tigers enjoy water and often swim to cool off, cross rivers, or even hunt aquatic prey. Their muscular bodies and strong limbs allow them to move through water with ease and endurance. Tigers have been known to swim several kilometers at a time, and some populations, like the Bengal tigers in the Sundarbans, regularly navigate tidal channels and mangrove swamps. This swimming ability not only aids in travel and survival but also sets tigers apart as one of the few big cats that actively embrace aquatic environments. Source: Wikipedia Moose Moose, though large and primarily land-dwelling, are surprisingly strong and capable swimmers. These towering herbivores are well adapted to life in northern wetlands and often rely on swimming as part of their daily routine. With long legs and powerful muscles, moose can easily wade through marshes and paddle across lakes and rivers. They are known to swim for several kilometers at a time and can reach speeds of up to 6 miles per hour in the water. Moose even dive underwater—sometimes up to 5 meters deep—to forage for aquatic plants. Their swimming ability is essential for feeding, escaping predators, and moving between feeding grounds. Source: Wikipedia Camel Although camels are best known for thriving in arid deserts, they are also capable swimmers despite being non-aquatic animals. While they rarely encounter large bodies of water in their natural habitats, camels have been observed swimming when necessary. Their long legs and buoyant bodies help them stay afloat, and they can paddle effectively using a dog-like stroke. In regions like the coastal areas of Oman or parts of Rajasthan in India, camels have been seen crossing rivers or even swimming short distances in the sea. While not natural swimmers like elephants or tigers, camels demonstrate surprising adaptability when faced with aquatic challenges. Source: Wikipedia Kangaroo Kangaroos, although strictly land-dwelling animals, are surprisingly capable swimmers. While they are best known for their powerful hopping on land, kangaroos can enter water to escape predators, cool off, or cross rivers and creeks. In the water, they use a dog-paddle motion, moving their forelimbs independently—unlike on land, where their forelimbs are mainly used for balance and grooming. Their strong hind legs kick alternately, helping them propel through water efficiently. Some kangaroos even use water strategically, luring predators in and attempting to drown them by holding them underwater. This unexpected swimming ability highlights the kangaroo's versatility and survival instincts. Source: Wikipedia Also read: 10 mind-blowing facts about Earth's most amazing creatures
