heavy period: science offers some relief
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh in the UK identified a key protein called HIF-1 that could explain why some women have to deal with painful, heavy bleeding during periods. They studied the womb lining, known as the endometrium. This is shed during menstruation, leaving behind a wound-like surface that must heal to limit blood loss. The team discovered that lowered levels of oxygen — known as hypoxia — stimulates the production of HIF-1, which drives repair of the womb lining. Women with heavy periods had reduced levels of HIF-1 compared with those with normal blood loss, researchers said. Tests on mice using a drug to boost levels of HIF-1 led to improved tissue repair and reduced blood loss. The results offer hope for therapies, they said. “Our findings reveal for the first time that HIF-1 and reduced levels of oxygen in the womb are required during a period to optimise repair of the womb lining,” said Jackie Maybin from the MRC Centre for Reproductive Health at the University of Edinburgh.
feeling lowIJ turmeric can help you
Turmeric or haldi holds immense importance in Indian households. Turmeric has been an intrinsic part of our lives beyond kitchens too. It is prized in Ayurveda for its health, antiseptic, medicinal and beauty benefits. A storehouse of health benefits, consuming turmeric daily may also boost your memory and uplift your mood, says a new study. Curcumin, the principal curcuminoid of turmeric, has been previously been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Experts have also suggested that one of the possible reasons why senior citizens in India have lower incidences of Alzheimer’s disease performance is because of their regular intake of curcumin in turmeric.
arthritis and menopause linkedIJ
Study indicates that menopause has a significant impact on the level and rate of functional decline in women with rheumatoid arthritis and is associated with a worsening progression of the effects of the disease. “Not only is this decline causing suffering for women, it is costly to both individuals and the healthcare system as a whole,” said lead author Elizabeth Mollard, Assistant Professor in the University of Nebraska in the US. Women experience rheumatoid arthritis at a rate three times greater than men and also have more severe decline and increased disability, yet the sex-based differences in the condition remain poorly understood. Previous studies have shown that women with rheumatoid arthritis experience shifts in their disease surrounding reproductive and hormonal life events, like childbirth.