Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

What Really Clogs Your Arteries? Tips To Keep Your Heart Healthy

You've heard of "clogged arteries," but do you truly understand what is going on in your body? It's not merely a matter of consuming too many cheeseburgers. Something known as atherosclerosis—a gradual, insidious accumulation of plaque composed of cholesterol, fats, calcium, and other materials—lies beneath the surface, often the true cause of heart attacks and strokes.

Cardiovascular disease is still among the biggest killers globally, and a lot of the risk comes from its invisibility. Atherosclerosis, which is sometimes referred to as the silent killer, slowly plugs up arteries and lays the groundwork for heart attacks and strokes well before they manifest. The best news? With the proper information and preventive actions, you can shield your arteries and heart.

This is the thing: this toxic buildup doesn't present symptoms until it has already done substantial harm. Cardiovascular disease, says the American Heart Association, is the number one cause of death worldwide, and atherosclerosis is at the center of the epidemic.

But the good news is: atherosclerosis can be prevented, even reversed in some instances—if you know how it comes about, how to detect its signs early on, and what changes in lifestyle can actually safeguard your heart.

Atherosclerosis is a disease where plaque accumulates on the arteries' walls. This plaque is composed of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances moving through the blood. Eventually, these deposits harden and constrict the arteries, decreasing blood supply to organs.

"Atherosclerosis is a devious, even lethal illness wherein artery walls get clogged with plaque," describes Dr. Paneendra S, Orthopedic Surgeon. "Atherosclerosis develops over the course of many years and usually is without symptoms until it leads to a life-threatening event such as a heart attack or stroke."

The illness usually starts when the lining of the arteries inside, the endothelium, is damaged. A number of reasons are responsible for this damage, such as:

<ul><li>Smoking</li><li>High cholesterol</li><li>Diabetes</li><li>High blood pressure</li><li>Chronic inflammation</li></ul>

"Once the endothelium has been hurt, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol can filter through the arterial wall," says Dr. Paneendra. "White blood cells rush in to break down the cholesterol, but this reaction creates fatty nodules called atheromas."

These atheromas may develop and then rupture, producing clots that either occlude the artery in which they were formed or embolize to a different location within the body, obstructing an organ elsewhere.

<h2>Warning Signs and Where They Appear</h2>

Although dangerous, atherosclerosis typically develops silently. Its warning signs first become apparent only when blockage is complete. Depending on the arteries involved, the signs are variable:

<strong>Heart (Coronary Arteries):</strong> Chest pain or discomfort, also referred to as angina.

<strong>Legs (Peripheral Arteries): </strong>Pain that occurs during walking (claudication), numbness, or non-healing sores.

<strong>Brain (Carotid Arteries): </strong>Slurred speech, numbness, or weakness—often stroke warning signs.

<strong>Feet and Toes:</strong> Burning, color changes, or chronic ulcers caused by inadequate circulation.

These symptoms indicate that one of the primary arteries has already experienced extensive narrowing or blockage. Early treatment and control are important to avert permanent damage.

<h2>Role of Inflammation and Lifestyle For Heart Damage</h2>

Chronic inflammation is a key contributor to the formation of atherosclerosis. Obesity, lack of exercise, and dietary factors cause chronic inflammation, which further accelerates arterial damage.

The diet rich in saturated and trans fats raises the level of LDL cholesterol, while fruits, vegetables, and fiber intake ensures your body has natural ant-inflammatory power.

<h2>How You Can Prevent This Life-Threatening Heart Condition?</h2>

Because atherosclerosis progresses silently, prevention is more important. Here's how you can regain control of your <span>heart health</span>:

Emphasize whole grains, leafy greens, berries, nuts, and healthy fats such as olive oil. Reduce your intake of processed foods, red meat, and sweetened drinks.

Strive for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise a week, including brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors. Quitting dramatically reduces the risk of arterial plaque buildup.

Chronic stress can raise blood pressure and trigger inflammation. Practice mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing techniques.

<h4>5. Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol</h4>

Routine health checkups can help detect high cholesterol or hypertension early, allowing for timely intervention.

For individuals with diabetes or prediabetes, blood sugar control is essential to minimize inflammation and artery damage.

Even if you don't have symptoms, if you have several risk factors—like a history of heart disease in your family, smoking, or high cholesterol levels—it's crucial to see a healthcare professional. Tests for screening purposes such as cholesterol panels, blood pressure checks, and even coronary calcium scans can evaluate your risk.

"Overall, atherosclerosis is frequently unsuspect, progressive disease that can be severely damaging to cardiovascular health," cautions Dr. Paneendra. "Because symptoms only typically appear after widespread damage, early detection and prevention are critical."

<em>Dr. Paneendra S is an Orthopedic Surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore in India</em>

Health Conditions A-Z

health

heart health

what clogs arteries

atherosclerosis causes

heart health tips

artery plaque buildup

signs of blocked arteries

prevent heart attack

cholesterol and heart disease

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You've heard of "clogged arteries," but do you truly understand what is going on in your body? It's not merely a matter of consuming too many cheeseburgers. Something known as atherosclerosis—a gradual, insidious accumulation of plaque composed of cholesterol, fats, calcium, and other materials—lies beneath the surface, often the true cause of heart attacks and strokes.Cardiovascular disease is still among the biggest killers globally, and a lot of the risk comes from its invisibility. Atherosclerosis, which is sometimes referred to as the silent killer, slowly plugs up arteries and lays the groundwork for heart attacks and strokes well before they manifest. The best news? With the proper information and preventive actions, you can shield your arteries and heart.This is the thing: this toxic buildup doesn't present symptoms until it has already done substantial harm. Cardiovascular disease, says the American Heart Association, is the number one cause of death worldwide, and atherosclerosis is at the center of the epidemic.But the good news is: atherosclerosis can be prevented, even reversed in some instances—if you know how it comes about, how to detect its signs early on, and what changes in lifestyle can actually safeguard your heart.What is Atherosclerosis?Atherosclerosis is a disease where plaque accumulates on the arteries' walls. This plaque is composed of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances moving through the blood. Eventually, these deposits harden and constrict the arteries, decreasing blood supply to organs."Atherosclerosis is a devious, even lethal illness wherein artery walls get clogged with plaque," describes Dr. Paneendra S, Orthopedic Surgeon. "Atherosclerosis develops over the course of many years and usually is without symptoms until it leads to a life-threatening event such as a heart attack or stroke."The illness usually starts when the lining of the arteries inside, the endothelium, is damaged. A number of reasons are responsible for this damage, such as:SmokingHigh cholesterolDiabetesHigh blood pressureChronic inflammation"Once the endothelium has been hurt, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol can filter through the arterial wall," says Dr. Paneendra. "White blood cells rush in to break down the cholesterol, but this reaction creates fatty nodules called atheromas."These atheromas may develop and then rupture, producing clots that either occlude the artery in which they were formed or embolize to a different location within the body, obstructing an organ elsewhere.Warning Signs and Where They AppearAlthough dangerous, atherosclerosis typically develops silently. Its warning signs first become apparent only when blockage is complete. Depending on the arteries involved, the signs are variable:Heart (Coronary Arteries): Chest pain or discomfort, also referred to as angina.Legs (Peripheral Arteries): Pain that occurs during walking (claudication), numbness, or non-healing sores.Brain (Carotid Arteries): Slurred speech, numbness, or weakness—often stroke warning signs.Feet and Toes: Burning, color changes, or chronic ulcers caused by inadequate circulation.These symptoms indicate that one of the primary arteries has already experienced extensive narrowing or blockage. Early treatment and control are important to avert permanent damage.Role of Inflammation and Lifestyle For Heart DamageChronic inflammation is a key contributor to the formation of atherosclerosis. Obesity, lack of exercise, and dietary factors cause chronic inflammation, which further accelerates arterial damage.The diet rich in saturated and trans fats raises the level of LDL cholesterol, while fruits, vegetables, and fiber intake ensures your body has natural ant-inflammatory power.How You Can Prevent This Life-Threatening Heart Condition?Because atherosclerosis progresses silently, prevention is more important. Here's how you can regain control of your heart health:1. Eat a Heart-Healthy DietEmphasize whole grains, leafy greens, berries, nuts, and healthy fats such as olive oil. Reduce your intake of processed foods, red meat, and sweetened drinks.2. Exercise RegularlyStrive for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise a week, including brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.3. Quit SmokingSmoking is one of the most significant risk factors. Quitting dramatically reduces the risk of arterial plaque buildup.4. Manage StressChronic stress can raise blood pressure and trigger inflammation. Practice mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing techniques.5. Monitor Blood Pressure and CholesterolRoutine health checkups can help detect high cholesterol or hypertension early, allowing for timely intervention.6. Control Blood SugarFor individuals with diabetes or prediabetes, blood sugar control is essential to minimize inflammation and artery damage.When to Seek Medical Help?Even if you don't have symptoms, if you have several risk factors—like a history of heart disease in your family, smoking, or high cholesterol levels—it's crucial to see a healthcare professional. Tests for screening purposes such as cholesterol panels, blood pressure checks, and even coronary calcium scans can evaluate your risk."Overall, atherosclerosis is frequently unsuspect, progressive disease that can be severely damaging to cardiovascular health," cautions Dr. Paneendra. "Because symptoms only typically appear after widespread damage, early detection and prevention are critical."Dr. Paneendra S is an Orthopedic Surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore in India

what really clogs your arteries? tips to keep your heart healthy

Where Do Gluten Reactions Start In The Body?  Scientists Finally Found The Source

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Over 1 in 100 people worldwide living with <span>celiac disease</span>, consuming even trace amounts of gluten can trigger debilitating symptoms — from severe abdominal pain to long-term complications like malnutrition and increased cancer risk. But despite decades of research, the exact origin of these immune reactions remained something of a mystery.

Now, scientists may have pinpointed the elusive starting point of gluten-triggered immune attacks. In a landmark study published in Gastroenterology, researchers from McMaster University in Canada, along with international collaborators, have uncovered a pivotal role played by the cells lining the gut — not just as bystanders but as active agents in the cascade that defines celiac disease. This finding could pave the way for more precise, non-dietary therapies.

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition triggered by gluten — a group of structural proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. While most people digest gluten without issue, those with celiac disease experience an abnormal immune reaction that damages the small intestine.

The symptoms range from bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea to fatigue, skin rashes, and nutrient deficiencies. Over time, untreated celiac disease can lead to serious complications including osteoporosis, infertility, and gastrointestinal cancers.

Currently, the only effective treatment is lifelong strict avoidance of gluten — a tall order, given how ubiquitous gluten is in processed food, sauces, and even medications.

One clue to the mystery lies in genetics. Nearly 90% of people with celiac disease carry a specific protein called HLA-DQ2.5, while most of the rest carry HLA-DQ8. These proteins are part of a group called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), which present bits of proteins to the immune system — essentially acting like flags that identify threats.

In people with celiac disease, HLA-DQ2.5 or DQ8 mistakenly flags gluten fragments as dangerous, prompting an aggressive immune response. But not everyone who carries these genes gets the disease — suggesting something else is required to flip the switch.

<h2>Link Between Your Gut Cells and Gluten</h2>

Until now, it wasn’t fully understood how gluten peptides made their way past the gut lining and into the immune system’s crosshairs. The McMaster-led study changes that.

By using transgenic mice — mice genetically engineered to carry human versions of the HLA genes — researchers were able to simulate celiac disease at the cellular level. They grew miniature gut models known as organoids, made from real mouse intestinal cells, to observe what happens when gluten meets the gut lining.

What they found was striking: the epithelial cells lining the gut aren’t passive observers — they actively participate in the immune reaction.

These cells release a transporting enzyme that binds to gluten peptides and modifies them, making them even more visible to the immune system. The cells then present these altered gluten fragments directly to immune cells, triggering inflammation.

In other words, your own gut lining might be the place where celiac disease begins.

<h2>Gut Microbes Could Be Amplifying the Problem</h2>

Another major insight: inflammation and gut microbes appear to amplify the immune response. When the researchers exposed their organoids to inflammatory triggers and bacteria-processed gluten, the cells ramped up production of immune signaling molecules — effectively supercharging the immune reaction.

This discovery opens new avenues for treatment. Targeting the gut’s microbiome or blocking the epithelial cells’ presentation of gluten peptides could offer alternatives to the gluten-free diet — something patients and clinicians alike have long hoped for.

Lead researcher Dr. Elena Verdu, a gastroenterologist at McMaster, notes that while avoiding gluten is currently the only way to manage celiac disease, it is far from perfect.

“This is difficult to do, and experts agree that a gluten-free diet is insufficient,” Verdu says. “Our findings show that the gut lining plays a much bigger role in initiating the immune reaction than previously believed.”

By identifying the specific tissue types and enzymes involved, scientists now have a roadmap for developing targeted treatments. In the future, medications might block the gut’s gluten-presenting function, regulate inflammation, or even alter how gut bacteria break down gluten — all without having to eliminate gluten entirely.

<h2>Can This Help End the Gluten-Free Dietary Restrictions?</h2>

This breakthrough adds weight to the growing understanding that celiac disease is not just about the immune system being “overreactive,” but about how and where that reaction begins.

Tohid Didar, a biomedical engineer on the team, says, “This allowed us to narrow down the specific cause and effect and prove exactly whether and how the reaction takes place.”

Such clarity has never existed before. Now, with this map in hand, researchers can explore new therapies that go beyond dietary restrictions. Of course, these results — while promising — are still early. Most of the experiments were conducted on mice, though they carry human genes. The next step will be to confirm these findings in human tissue and clinical trials.

But the implications are clear: for the first time, we know where gluten reactions start. And we might soon have a path to stop them.

For people living with celiac disease, even a crumb of gluten can cause days of pain and damage. This research brings us one step closer to a world where bread, pasta, and pastries can be safely enjoyed — without fear and without compromise.

diet & nutrition

celiac disease

gluten intolerance

gut lining cells

gluten reaction

autoimmune disorder

new celiac treatment

gluten free alternative

Over 1 in 100 people worldwide living with celiac disease, consuming even trace amounts of gluten can trigger debilitating symptoms — from severe abdominal pain to long-term complications like malnutrition and increased cancer risk. But despite decades of research, the exact origin of these immune reactions remained something of a mystery.Now, scientists may have pinpointed the elusive starting point of gluten-triggered immune attacks. In a landmark study published in Gastroenterology, researchers from McMaster University in Canada, along with international collaborators, have uncovered a pivotal role played by the cells lining the gut — not just as bystanders but as active agents in the cascade that defines celiac disease. This finding could pave the way for more precise, non-dietary therapies.Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition triggered by gluten — a group of structural proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. While most people digest gluten without issue, those with celiac disease experience an abnormal immune reaction that damages the small intestine.The symptoms range from bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea to fatigue, skin rashes, and nutrient deficiencies. Over time, untreated celiac disease can lead to serious complications including osteoporosis, infertility, and gastrointestinal cancers.Currently, the only effective treatment is lifelong strict avoidance of gluten — a tall order, given how ubiquitous gluten is in processed food, sauces, and even medications.One clue to the mystery lies in genetics. Nearly 90% of people with celiac disease carry a specific protein called HLA-DQ2.5, while most of the rest carry HLA-DQ8. These proteins are part of a group called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), which present bits of proteins to the immune system — essentially acting like flags that identify threats.In people with celiac disease, HLA-DQ2.5 or DQ8 mistakenly flags gluten fragments as dangerous, prompting an aggressive immune response. But not everyone who carries these genes gets the disease — suggesting something else is required to flip the switch.Link Between Your Gut Cells and GlutenUntil now, it wasn’t fully understood how gluten peptides made their way past the gut lining and into the immune system’s crosshairs. The McMaster-led study changes that.By using transgenic mice — mice genetically engineered to carry human versions of the HLA genes — researchers were able to simulate celiac disease at the cellular level. They grew miniature gut models known as organoids, made from real mouse intestinal cells, to observe what happens when gluten meets the gut lining.What they found was striking: the epithelial cells lining the gut aren’t passive observers — they actively participate in the immune reaction.These cells release a transporting enzyme that binds to gluten peptides and modifies them, making them even more visible to the immune system. The cells then present these altered gluten fragments directly to immune cells, triggering inflammation.In other words, your own gut lining might be the place where celiac disease begins.Gut Microbes Could Be Amplifying the ProblemAnother major insight: inflammation and gut microbes appear to amplify the immune response. When the researchers exposed their organoids to inflammatory triggers and bacteria-processed gluten, the cells ramped up production of immune signaling molecules — effectively supercharging the immune reaction.This discovery opens new avenues for treatment. Targeting the gut’s microbiome or blocking the epithelial cells’ presentation of gluten peptides could offer alternatives to the gluten-free diet — something patients and clinicians alike have long hoped for.Lead researcher Dr. Elena Verdu, a gastroenterologist at McMaster, notes that while avoiding gluten is currently the only way to manage celiac disease, it is far from perfect.“This is difficult to do, and experts agree that a gluten-free diet is insufficient,” Verdu says. “Our findings show that the gut lining plays a much bigger role in initiating the immune reaction than previously believed.”By identifying the specific tissue types and enzymes involved, scientists now have a roadmap for developing targeted treatments. In the future, medications might block the gut’s gluten-presenting function, regulate inflammation, or even alter how gut bacteria break down gluten — all without having to eliminate gluten entirely.Can This Help End the Gluten-Free Dietary Restrictions?This breakthrough adds weight to the growing understanding that celiac disease is not just about the immune system being “overreactive,” but about how and where that reaction begins.Tohid Didar, a biomedical engineer on the team, says, “This allowed us to narrow down the specific cause and effect and prove exactly whether and how the reaction takes place.”Such clarity has never existed before. Now, with this map in hand, researchers can explore new therapies that go beyond dietary restrictions. Of course, these results — while promising — are still early. Most of the experiments were conducted on mice, though they carry human genes. The next step will be to confirm these findings in human tissue and clinical trials.But the implications are clear: for the first time, we know where gluten reactions start. And we might soon have a path to stop them.For people living with celiac disease, even a crumb of gluten can cause days of pain and damage. This research brings us one step closer to a world where bread, pasta, and pastries can be safely enjoyed — without fear and without compromise.

where do gluten reactions start in the body?  scientists finally found the source

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It’s easy to blame low libido on stress, hormones, or simple fatigue but what if the actual perpetrator lurks deeper—literally? More and more, studies are indicating your gut health as a main player in affecting sexual desire.

The gut is no longer seen as merely a digestive system. It's today understood to be a command center for a broad range of body functions—immunity, hormone balance, and even emotional well-being. And all of them have a direct or indirect impact on libido.

At the core of this connection is the gut-brain axis, a two-way communication pathway linking your gastrointestinal system with your central nervous system. This process enables your gut microbiome to impact major brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, both of which are important in mood, motivation, and arousal. This is the thing: roughly 90% of the body's serotonin is actually made in the gut. So when your gut is out of whack, your mood, energy, and sex drive can suffer.

One of the most interesting new finds is the estrobolome—a special group of gut bacteria that break down estrogen. The bacteria secrete an enzyme called β-glucuronidase, which recycles estrogen and keeps hormones in check.

When the estrobolome gets disturbed—perhaps by a bad diet, stress, or antibiotics—it can disrupt estrogen balance. What's the consequence? Mood swings, PMS, exhaustion, and a vanishing libido.

<h2>Why Your Gut Might Be Draining Your Energy?</h2>

Even when you're eating all the right foods, a gut that doesn't work well can interfere with your ability to take in necessary nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and magnesium—all of which play a central role in energy and mood management. Without sufficient supplies of these, you might feel perpetually drained and mentally cloudy. And let's face it—nobody feels sexy if they're not rested.

Add to that chronic inflammation and disrupted neurotransmitter production, and you’ve got a recipe for low libido that can’t be fixed by aphrodisiacs alone.

<h2>How Your Gut Affecting Your Sex Life?</h2>

If you're consistently experiencing bloating, constipation, or IBS-type symptoms and also experiencing poor sleep, mood swings, or irregular periods, your gut is likely playing a more significant role than you realize. These overlapping symptoms indicate that your digestive system might be playing with your hormones and mood—both integral components of a healthy sex drive.

Gut health is no silver bullet, but it is an oft-overlooked part of the libido equation. Though great gut health will not necessarily trigger an increase in sexual appetite, it provides the groundwork for enhanced mood, vitality, and emotional preparedness—all prime motivators of a healthy libido.

As psychologists and nutrition scientists frequently point out, sexual desire is seldom purely biological. It's impacted by emotional attachment, self-esteem, satisfaction with one's relationship, stress levels, and even cultural conditioning.

<h2>How to Reset Your Gut and Revive Your Libido?</h2>

It's not difficult to enhance gut health, but it does need to be a habitual practice. Following are practical, science-supported methods to get your gut—and your libido—going strong:

Nourish your gut flora: Consume more whole foods containing fiber such as leafy greens, lentils, and whole grains.

Include fermented foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi add good bacteria.

Exercise regularly: Activity supports diversity of gut flora and reduces inflammation.

Deal with stress: Ongoing stress can disrupt the gut-brain axis. Try breathwork or mindfulness.

Sleep: Inadequate sleep disturbs both gut and hormonal balance.

Hydrate: Water keeps the gut mucosal lining intact, facilitating absorption and immunity.

Stay away from unnecessary antibiotics: They destroy both bad and good bacteria.

Your gut may be doing more than break down your food. It may be quietly influencing your mood, your hormones—and yes, your sex life. Although low libido can have countless causes, focusing on your gut is one of the most compelling ways to support your overall health and rediscover your desire. If you've been feeling "off," begin by paying attention to your gut. It might be attempting to communicate more with you than you realize.

sexual health

low sex drive

gut health and libido

estrogen imbalance

mood and hormones

gut brain axis

libido booster tips

sex drive and microbiome

It’s easy to blame low libido on stress, hormones, or simple fatigue but what if the actual perpetrator lurks deeper—literally? More and more, studies are indicating your gut health as a main player in affecting sexual desire.The gut is no longer seen as merely a digestive system. It's today understood to be a command center for a broad range of body functions—immunity, hormone balance, and even emotional well-being. And all of them have a direct or indirect impact on libido.At the core of this connection is the gut-brain axis, a two-way communication pathway linking your gastrointestinal system with your central nervous system. This process enables your gut microbiome to impact major brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, both of which are important in mood, motivation, and arousal. This is the thing: roughly 90% of the body's serotonin is actually made in the gut. So when your gut is out of whack, your mood, energy, and sex drive can suffer.What is Estrobolome?One of the most interesting new finds is the estrobolome—a special group of gut bacteria that break down estrogen. The bacteria secrete an enzyme called β-glucuronidase, which recycles estrogen and keeps hormones in check.When the estrobolome gets disturbed—perhaps by a bad diet, stress, or antibiotics—it can disrupt estrogen balance. What's the consequence? Mood swings, PMS, exhaustion, and a vanishing libido.Why Your Gut Might Be Draining Your Energy?Even when you're eating all the right foods, a gut that doesn't work well can interfere with your ability to take in necessary nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and magnesium—all of which play a central role in energy and mood management. Without sufficient supplies of these, you might feel perpetually drained and mentally cloudy. And let's face it—nobody feels sexy if they're not rested.Add to that chronic inflammation and disrupted neurotransmitter production, and you’ve got a recipe for low libido that can’t be fixed by aphrodisiacs alone.How Your Gut Affecting Your Sex Life?If you're consistently experiencing bloating, constipation, or IBS-type symptoms and also experiencing poor sleep, mood swings, or irregular periods, your gut is likely playing a more significant role than you realize. These overlapping symptoms indicate that your digestive system might be playing with your hormones and mood—both integral components of a healthy sex drive.Gut health is no silver bullet, but it is an oft-overlooked part of the libido equation. Though great gut health will not necessarily trigger an increase in sexual appetite, it provides the groundwork for enhanced mood, vitality, and emotional preparedness—all prime motivators of a healthy libido.As psychologists and nutrition scientists frequently point out, sexual desire is seldom purely biological. It's impacted by emotional attachment, self-esteem, satisfaction with one's relationship, stress levels, and even cultural conditioning.How to Reset Your Gut and Revive Your Libido?It's not difficult to enhance gut health, but it does need to be a habitual practice. Following are practical, science-supported methods to get your gut—and your libido—going strong:Nourish your gut flora: Consume more whole foods containing fiber such as leafy greens, lentils, and whole grains.Include fermented foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi add good bacteria.Exercise regularly: Activity supports diversity of gut flora and reduces inflammation.Deal with stress: Ongoing stress can disrupt the gut-brain axis. Try breathwork or mindfulness.Sleep: Inadequate sleep disturbs both gut and hormonal balance.Hydrate: Water keeps the gut mucosal lining intact, facilitating absorption and immunity.Stay away from unnecessary antibiotics: They destroy both bad and good bacteria.Your gut may be doing more than break down your food. It may be quietly influencing your mood, your hormones—and yes, your sex life. Although low libido can have countless causes, focusing on your gut is one of the most compelling ways to support your overall health and rediscover your desire. If you've been feeling "off," begin by paying attention to your gut. It might be attempting to communicate more with you than you realize.

Aarushi Bhadury

Pneumonic Plague Death Raises Alarm, Can Prairie Dogs Be The Cause Of It?

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Child Dies Of Measles In UK Hospital As Health Officials Warn Of Rapid Community Spread

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The sudden death of a Northern Arizona resident due to the pneumonic plague- a diseases that is the known cause of the century old <span>health crisis bubonic plague</span>, has raised alarm among the locals and health officials alike. The person died from the plague just 24 hours after feeling sick and showing symptoms. This is a rare but serious case of the disease in the United States amid the declining rate of immunization. The person, whose name hasn't been released, was taken to Flagstaff Medical Center in a very bad condition and passed away the same day. 

The case has raised new worries, especially since it happened at the same time as many <span>prairie dogs</span> were reported dying near Flagstaff. This is a natural warning sign that the plague might be spreading among wild animals in the area. 

<h2>What Is <span rel="noindex">Pneumonic Plague</span>?</h2>

Plague is a rare but serious illness that can affect both animals and humans. It's caused by a type of bacteria called Yersinia pestis (Y. pestis). These bacteria are found in <span>wild rodents</span> and their fleas in many parts of the world, including most of the western United States. Pneumonic Plague is a more concerning type because it affects the lungs. It happens when you breathe in the Y. pestis bacteria. This form of plague can be spread from person to person. Symptoms of pneumonic plague usually start one to four days after exposure. These include: 

<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Headache</li><li>Weakness</li><li>A cough that produces bloody or watery mucus (due to lung infection, or pneumonia)</li></ul>

If you start showing symptoms, see a doctor right away. If you think you might have been intentionally exposed to pneumonic plague, contact law enforcement immediately. Currently, there's no vaccine for pneumonic plague. However, antibiotics can be used to prevent illness in people who have been exposed to the bacteria.

<h2>How Are Prairie Dogs Linked To This? </h2>

According to a report received by Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) on 7th July, Townsend Winona area experienced a prairie dog die-off. They explained that a sudden die-off of prairie dogs and other rodents can be a warning sign for plague, a serious disease that can affect both animals and people. The bacteria that cause plague, Yersinia pestis, spread through the bite of infected fleas or by touching sick animals. People can also get infected from sick pets.

The affected area is on private land, CCHHS is working with the property owner to collect fleas for testing. They'll also contact other nearby property owners to expand their checks and potentially treat the area. Rodent burrows will be treated to reduce flea activity, and the area will continue to be watched closely because plague is common in Coconino County, CCHHS has a system to monitor for the disease. They also watch for other diseases like West Nile virus and rabies to quickly find them, understand how they spread, and take steps to protect the public. Here are some preventative tips you should have

Use veterinarian-approved flea treatments, keep your pets on a leash, and keep them away from areas where wild rodents live. 

If you see many dead rodents or rabbits, please call animal services 

<strong>Keep rodents away from your home</strong>

Clear away brush, rock piles, trash, and lumber from around your house and sheds. Store food in containers that rodents can't get into. 

Never feed or touch wild rodents, and stay away from areas where they are known to live. Do not touch sick or dead animals. 

Use insect repellent with 20-30% DEET and tuck your pant legs into your socks. 

This prevents them from roaming around rodent burrows and is also required by Arizona State law. 

Don't camp near rodent burrows and avoid sleeping directly on the ground. 

Cats can easily get plague. If your cat is sick (especially if it roams outside), take it to a vet right away for diagnosis and treatment to reduce the risk of people getting plague. 

If your pet shows symptoms like a high fever, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, loss of appetite, a cough, or eye discharge, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Pneumonic Plague

The sudden death of a Northern Arizona resident due to the pneumonic plague- a diseases that is the known cause of the century old health crisis bubonic plague, has raised alarm among the locals and health officials alike. The person died from the plague just 24 hours after feeling sick and showing symptoms. This is a rare but serious case of the disease in the United States amid the declining rate of immunization. The person, whose name hasn't been released, was taken to Flagstaff Medical Center in a very bad condition and passed away the same day. The case has raised new worries, especially since it happened at the same time as many prairie dogs were reported dying near Flagstaff. This is a natural warning sign that the plague might be spreading among wild animals in the area. What Is Pneumonic Plague?Plague is a rare but serious illness that can affect both animals and humans. It's caused by a type of bacteria called Yersinia pestis (Y. pestis). These bacteria are found in wild rodents and their fleas in many parts of the world, including most of the western United States. Pneumonic Plague is a more concerning type because it affects the lungs. It happens when you breathe in the Y. pestis bacteria. This form of plague can be spread from person to person. Symptoms of pneumonic plague usually start one to four days after exposure. These include: FeverHeadacheWeaknessA cough that produces bloody or watery mucus (due to lung infection, or pneumonia)If you start showing symptoms, see a doctor right away. If you think you might have been intentionally exposed to pneumonic plague, contact law enforcement immediately. Currently, there's no vaccine for pneumonic plague. However, antibiotics can be used to prevent illness in people who have been exposed to the bacteria.How Are Prairie Dogs Linked To This? According to a report received by Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) on 7th July, Townsend Winona area experienced a prairie dog die-off. They explained that a sudden die-off of prairie dogs and other rodents can be a warning sign for plague, a serious disease that can affect both animals and people. The bacteria that cause plague, Yersinia pestis, spread through the bite of infected fleas or by touching sick animals. People can also get infected from sick pets.Can The Plague Be Prevented?The affected area is on private land, CCHHS is working with the property owner to collect fleas for testing. They'll also contact other nearby property owners to expand their checks and potentially treat the area. Rodent burrows will be treated to reduce flea activity, and the area will continue to be watched closely because plague is common in Coconino County, CCHHS has a system to monitor for the disease. They also watch for other diseases like West Nile virus and rabies to quickly find them, understand how they spread, and take steps to protect the public. Here are some preventative tips you should haveProtect your pets from fleasUse veterinarian-approved flea treatments, keep your pets on a leash, and keep them away from areas where wild rodents live. Report dead rodentsIf you see many dead rodents or rabbits, please call animal services Keep rodents away from your homeClear away brush, rock piles, trash, and lumber from around your house and sheds. Store food in containers that rodents can't get into. Avoid wild animalsNever feed or touch wild rodents, and stay away from areas where they are known to live. Do not touch sick or dead animals. Prevent flea bitesUse insect repellent with 20-30% DEET and tuck your pant legs into your socks. Keep dogs on leashThis prevents them from roaming around rodent burrows and is also required by Arizona State law. Be careful when campingDon't camp near rodent burrows and avoid sleeping directly on the ground. Be aware of sick catsCats can easily get plague. If your cat is sick (especially if it roams outside), take it to a vet right away for diagnosis and treatment to reduce the risk of people getting plague. Get vet care for sick petsIf your pet shows symptoms like a high fever, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, loss of appetite, a cough, or eye discharge, contact a veterinarian immediately.