Rice water has been a staple in beauty rituals for centuries, particularly in South East Asia. As per historical records, women in China and Japan have been washing their hair with rice water due to its hydrating and nourishing properties, benefiting both the scalp and hair, as well as brightening and soothing the skin. For the uninitiated, rice water is simply water that has been fermented with rice, and it can be easily made at home or found in various hair-care products. But does it actually live up to its claims?

Health Benefits Of Rice Water

One of the primary reasons people turn to rice water is because of its nutrient value and potential to expedite hair growth. Viral TikTok videos often showcase dramatic before-and-after transformations, where users report significant increases in hair volume and length in just a few weeks of using it. However, experts urge caution, as most of these hair growth claims are anecdotal. They argue that while it has nourishing properties, more research is needed to substantiate its hair growth claim.

Regardless, there is not denying of the fact that rice water contains beneficial vitamins and minerals that can support a healthy scalp and hair function. Hill explains that rice water's amino acids, B vitamins, vitamin E, and antioxidants can strengthen hair strands. It also acts as a protein treatment that helps minimize frizz and smoothens the hair, making it more manageable.

How to Use Rice Water for Hair?

Incorporating rice water into your hair care routine is easy. You can start by pouring rice water over your hair after shampooing and conditioning, allowing it to soak in for maximum benefit. Alternatively, you can use a spray bottle to apply it on your scalp immediately after hair wash. If you're using any other product with rice water, be sure to follow the instructions provided on the packaging for optimal results.

Interestingly, you can make rice water at home. You can make it by soaking half a cup of uncooked rice in two cups of water for about an hour. After this, you need to strain the rice and save the liquid in a container, such as a spray bottle.

Potential Side Effects

While rice water is generally safe for most people, it may not suit every hair type. Hill warns that individuals with high-porosity hair (hair that easily absorbs water and products) are more likely to benefit from rice water than those with low-porosity hair. For those with low-porosity hair, using rice water could lead to protein buildup, which might weigh down the hair or cause it to become brittle. It's important to understand your hair type before using rice water.

Additionally, combining food-based products like rice water with over-the-counter or medicated treatments may cause adverse reactions due to incompatible ingredients. If you have scalp conditions such as dandruff or eczema, it's crucial to consult with a dermatologist or trichologist before using rice water or any other food-based treatments. If you're seeking significant hair growth, experts recommend using proven ingredients like minoxidil in conjunction with rice water, rather than as a replacement.

‘If only building muscles was as easy as sleep’ is a thought that most people can relate to. As you may know, building muscles is not simply for aesthetic reasons, but muscle definition is important for your body’s overall well-being. Whether it is your back health, joint health or even your posture.

However, exercising regularly and focusing on muscle building can be a very taxing job for your body. Except for exercising, one must follow a strict diet and be rich in all the nutrients like protein, fiber, carbohydrates, etc. Many people opt for protein shakes to enhance muscle growth as well. These protein shakes could help you build muscle by simply sleeping. Dr Mark Hyman, practicing family physician and the Chief Medical Officer of Function Health, took to social media and explained science backed ways to aid your body build muscles.

How Can You Build Muscle While Sleeping?

Dr. Mark Hyman cited 2012 research done by the American College of Sports Medicine, which showed that 40g of protein before bed can keep your body in a muscle-building mode for 7.5 hours, leading to a 22% increase in muscle protein synthesis and sustained overnight repair.

A study on healthy young men demonstrated the effectiveness of 40g of casein protein consumed 30 minutes before sleep in boosting muscle protein synthesis and improving overnight recovery after evening resistance exercise. The timing allowed for optimal digestion and absorption during sleep. Casein is a type of protein that digests slowly, which makes it a good choice for providing a steady supply of building blocks to your muscles throughout the night while you are resting and recovering.

The timing of when they drank the protein was really important for it to work best. By having it right before sleep, the casein had time to be fully digested and absorbed into their bodies just as they were falling asleep. This led to higher levels of amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscle, circulating in their bodies throughout their normal sleep. This steady supply helps the muscles rebuild and grow effectively overnight.

What Its Some Other Health Benefits Of It?

Having some protein before bed doesn't just help your muscles get stronger. It can also help you feel fuller for longer, which can be really helpful if you tend to get hungry in the evenings. By keeping those nighttime cravings at bay, this simple habit could even play a role in managing your weight without you even realizing it while you are fast asleep and not reaching for snacks.

While eating protein before bed can be great for muscle growth, it's important to pay attention to how your own body reacts to it to make sure you sleep comfortably. It's always a good idea to chat with your doctor before making big changes to what you eat, especially if you have any health issues or are taking medication. Pay attention to your digestion and adjust the amount or timing of your protein if you feel any discomfort.

The National Health Services (NHS) reminds us that there are tons of different proteins in our bodies, and they do all sorts of important jobs. They help our immune system work properly and keep our muscles and bones strong as we go through life. To get a healthy amount of protein, it's good to eat lean meats and try to eat less of things like bacon, ham, and sausages, which are more processed.

While the health issues associated with climate change may seem far off, we may have to worry about a killer fungus that infects millions. A new study shows that Aspergillus species, which can cause severe infections in humans, livestock and plants will continue to grow because of the higher temperatures. The research is currently under peer review. The authors explain that invasive aspergillosis and its prevalence in a place correlates with the environmental suitability, meaning the warmer the temperature, the more severe the strain.

To understand this infection better, we spoke to Dr. Sabrinath Ravichandar, Pulmonologist from Chennai.

What Infection Does Aspergillus Species Cause?

The fungus in question can lead to invasive aspergillosis, a severe infection that typically starts in the lungs and has the potential to spread to the brain. While people with healthy immune systems can usually combat the fungal spores, those with a weak immune system are more at risk. According to a 2024 report in Lancet, annually more than 2 million people develop invasive aspergillosis with 34 thousand deaths.

Dr. Ravichandar explains that the early signs of this infection include coughing (sometimes with blood), shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, fatigue and wheezing. The symptoms may differ for people who have a weak immune system, he explains. “In immunocompromised individuals, symptoms may progress rapidly. Sinus infections, facial swelling, or vision changes can also occur if the fungus spreads. Prompt medical attention is crucial for effective treatment.”

Climate Change Fuels Fungal Spread

The study suggests that this fungus, called Aspergillus, could move from warmer parts of the world into Europe and the UK as climate change gets worse, and temperatures keep rising. Researchers say that climate change makes disease outbreaks more likely, and these fungal infections are becoming harder to treat and more common.

Why Is This Fungus A Cause Of Concern?

Experts say these fungi are "extremely difficult" to treat. There aren't many medicines that work against them, and the fungus is becoming resistant to the drugs we have. They are also very hard to diagnose. Dr. Ravichandar says, “Antifungal medications like voriconazole and amphotericin B are effective treatments. Early diagnosis and targeted antifungal therapy significantly improve outcomes in affected individuals.”

Challenges in Treatment and Diagnosis

Experts caution that these fungal infections are very difficult to treat. Researchers note that along with limited availability of effective treatments and medications, there is a concern regarding whether the infection becomes drug resistant. Now the question arises - how will the infection be effectively diagnosed and treated?

Dr. Ravichandran explains that the effectiveness for the treatment for aspergillosis depends on what kind of strain it is. While medication may help, sometimes there is need for other kinds of treatments. “In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove infected tissues. Treatment effectiveness varies; it depends on the infection type and the patient’s immune status. Invasive aspergillosis is harder to treat and can be life-threatening despite therapy.”

How Is Infection Caused By Aspergillus Diagnosed?

Researchers emphasize the difficulty of diagnosing this infection, saying there are many challenges associated with accurate diagnosis. Dr. Ravichandar explains that diagnosis for aspergillosis involves chest X-rays or CT scans to detect lung damage. He continues, “Blood tests to detect antibodies or antigens, and sputum or tissue cultures to identify the fungus. A bronchoscopy may be performed to collect lung samples.”

Who Is At Risk And Are There Preventive Measures They Can Follow?

The expert says, “People most at risk include those with weakened immune systems, cancer, organ transplants, or lung diseases. To protect themselves, they should avoid dusty environments, wear masks when exposed to soil or mold, maintain good hygiene, and promptly treat infections. Regular medical follow-ups help detect and manage early signs effectively.”

According to the Gerontology Research Group, Ethel Caterham, the 115-year-old British woman holds the title of the world's oldest living person's record. She was born even before the World War I on August 21, 1909. However, while much around her has changed, including countries, borders, and technologies, her mantra to a healthy life has not. It is: "Never argue with anyone. I listen and I do what I like." This is the golden rule she follows to lead a healthy life.

She was born in a small village in southern England, called Shipton Bellinger and was the second youngest among eight of her siblings. She shares that this was the time when there were horse-drawn carriages and handwritten letters were in trend. She has seen a lot of things, including two World Wars, rise of the internet and many other changes throughout history. However, her mantra is what kept her maintain her calm.

When she was 18, she also spent some time in India, where she worked as a nanny. Spending three years there, she returned to England and then moved to Hong Kong and Gibraltar after she married her husband Norman, who was a British army major.

She revealed that for her, travel was a stressbuster. There was a newness in it, and embracing different cultures, while staying true to her own, helped her keep calm. Studies have also shown that traveling to new places can improve your mental health. As it was relieve the tension and stress of your work life and also help your mind relax and heal.

It also helps as a regular reset, and helps increase your creativity and mental power, as well as focus.

The Rule To Never Argue

While being in her care home in Surrey, Ethel also spoke about her rule to never argue with anyone. This may sound old fashioned, however, psychologists agree that chronic stress, anger and emotional conflicts can in fact raise stress. The approach to never argue in ways falls under the ambit of "you cannot change things that are not under your control", a true line all therapists swear by.

It also helps you avoid unnecessary arguments, and preserve your mental and physical health.

Ethel also ensures that she celebrates her life. In the photos, she celebrated her 115th birthday and wore a tiara and enjoyed a cake.

The key to her life's secret is positivity and happiness, which she continues to live through her mantra of never arguing.

In fact, as per a 2023 study published in BMC Geriatrics, titled Happy people live longer because they are healthy people, notes that higher levels of happiness are associates with longer life expectancy.

The study also found that happiness was significantly associated with lower mortality.