06 Minimal exercises with maximum results if you’re short on time

07 All you need to know about the often misunderstood condition, fibromyalgia Your weekly dose of health A GULF NEWS SPONSORED SUPPLEMENT, ISSUE 129 MAY 27, 2019 and Stroke Unit opens at Rashid The department’s outpatient clin- ics, which receive between 15,000 and 20,000 visits every year, also of- fer specialised clinics for multiple iStock sclerosis (MS), movement disorders, neuromuscular disorders, epilepsy, dystonia and electrophysiology. Healthcare The department also launched pe- ripheral outreach headache clinics at Nad Al Hamar and Al Barsha primary sector grows healthcare centres. Other notable clinics include the 35 per cent telemedicine smart clinic, telephon- ic clinic, infusion clinic and visiting The past four years have neurologist clinics where interna- tional experts in MS, epilepsy, move- significant growth in the ment disorders and neuromuscular number of facilities

Supplied disorders assess selected patients at . The STAFF REPORT neurology team also provides in-hospital he health sector in wit- consultations for nessed a 35 per cent increase in patients requiring T the number of facilities over the neurology evalua- past four years. tion within Rashid Dubai Health Authority (DHA) revealed ●● The new Neurology and Stroke Unit at Rashid Hospital is the largest in the UAE Hospital, Dubai that the number of health facilities in- and was sponsored by businessman Yousef Mohammad Hadi Badri Hospital and Lat- creased from 2,775 to 3,371. ifa Hospital. The authority also stated that 97 per The 18-bed, state-of-the-art centre focuses The department cent of the 37 public and private also provides a neu- have international accreditation. on offering specialised neurology services rology residency pro- Health facilities in Dubai include: 50 gramme and a teaching one-day surgery centres covering different NOOR NAZZAL Al Qutami commended business- “The department’s programme for under- specialties, 81 homecare centres, 935 phar- DHA man Yousef Mohammad Hadi Badri scope of services include graduates from Dubai Medical macies, 84 labs, 1,212 outpatient clinics and for sponsoring the new unit and con- 24X7 emergency service, outpatient College. 972 other (for example, rehabilitation cen- ubai Health Authority tributing to the health sector’s devel- clinics (general and specialised), Among the department’s many tres). Meanwhile, the number of licensed (DHA) launched a new opmental drive in Dubai. inpatient care for critical patients, achievements are receiving a Ger- health professionals in Dubai is around Neurology and Stroke Dr Abu Baker Al Madani, Head of inpatient consultations in Dubai man stroke society accreditation for 39,000, of which 10,556 are doctors. D Unit at Rashid Hospital the Neurology Department in Rashid Hospital and Latifa Hospital, elec- the stroke unit, ongoing registries DHA also revealed that public health last week. His Excellency Humaid Al Hospital, said the neurology depart- trophysiological studies, specialised for MS, neuropathy, headache, move- facilities received around two million Qutami, Director General of DHA, ment in Rashid Hospital is the larg- procedures including Botox injec- ment disorders and epilepsy and es- outpatient visits in 2018, while private inaugurated the ward along with a est in the UAE. tions, baclofen pump and DBS pro- tablishing a centre of excellence for health facilities received almost 7.8 mil- number of DHA officials. gramming,” he said. multiple sclerosis. lion outpatient visits, so in total, there With a capacity of 18 beds, the new “We have a dedicated neurology “We are also on the path to estab- were around 10 million visits to public and Neurology and Stroke Unit focuses ward for high- and low-dependency lishing centres of excellence for neu- private healthcare facilities in Dubai last on offering specialised services to an patients including acute stroke pa- romuscular disorders, movement dis- year. Meanwhile, the number of surgeries average of 20,000 visitors the neurol- “We plan to set up tients and a specialised epilepsy orders, epilepsy and headache,” said in government hospitals totalled 33,890 ogy department receives every year. centres of excellence monitoring unit. “Our inpatient unit Dr Madani. (the figure includes major and minor “The expansions are in line with receives between 600 and 1,000 pa- Dr Al Madani also shared the de- surgeries). Surgeries in private hospitals the authority’s goals of provid- for neuromuscular and tients a year and the most common partment’s future plans to establish a amounted to 89,656 (includes major and ing specialised medical care to the admissions under neurology service full epilepsy-monitoring unit, provide minor surgeries). community,” said Al Qutami. “DHA movement disorders, include acute stroke thrombolysis initial trans magnetic stimulation In 2018, 33 million electronic insurance strives to continuously develop all epilepsy and headache.” and intervention, neurological emer- for treatment for headaches, back transactions were made and there were medical departments across facili- gencies (including status epilepticus, and neck pain and depression and to Dh15 billion worth of insurance claims. ties and ensure they are equipped Dr Abu Baker Al Madani myasthenic crisis, transverse my- provide a fellowship programme for Around 337,000 medical tourists visited with state-of-the-art technologies Head of Neurology Department elitis, autoimmune encephalitis and neurophysiology, stroke and multiple Dubai in 2018. n and qualified staff.” neuroleptic malignant syndrome.” sclerosis. n

where the system was trained to process these patients’ data. The DHA and Smart Dubai procedure helps improve the effi- ciency of various medical practices, such as early detection, in addition use AI to save lives to streamlining nursing and health- Healthcare professionals are able to preemptively detect care management. His Excellency Wesam Lootah, and address deterioration in the condition of patients CEO of Smart Dubai, emphasised the importance of AI technology in STAFF REPORT improve quality of life in the emirate providing effective tools to improve and accelerate smart transformation the lives of residents and visitors. He mart Dubai has unveiled in the services sector. referred to how AI can provide safe a new artificial intelli- The proof of concept (PoC) allows and innovative experiences that im- gence (AI) use case in the healthcare professionals to preemp- prove performance across govern- S healthcare sector as part tively detect and address deteriora- ment entities, and ultimately trans- of its AI Lab initiative, conducted in tion in a patient’s condition by track- forming Dubai into the happiest and collaboration with the Dubai Health ing six vital signs, including blood smartest city in the world. iStock Authority (DHA) and IBM. pressure, temperature and pulse. “Today, in collaboration with our cases of emergency,” Lootah added. Healthcare Corporation at DHA, The use case adds a milestone on Nurses feed this data into the high- strategic partners in the govern- “This constitutes a notable and revo- said the smart transformations wit- Smart Dubai’s roadmap, which seeks precision AI system, which predicts ment and private sectors, and as lutionary addition to the healthcare nessed at DHA facilities are a tes- to harness artificial intelligence to how a patient’s situation will progress part of our AI Lab initiative, we are sector, allowing for a more optimal timony to the authority’s commit- propose practical solutions, develop and takes the necessary precautions. introducing a new and unique ex- use of resources. With this new ex- ment to the directions of the UAE sophisticated services and improve Thousands of patients across four perience. The technology offers a periment, the AI Lab moves further government and Dubai’s goal of people’s lives. It’s part of the AI Lab hospitals — Rashid Hospital, Latifa comprehensive reading of patients’ along its roadmap, paving the way transforming Dubai into a Smart programme, which seeks to explore Hospital, and Hatta health, providing healthcare profes- for more AI-based experiments.” City to provide quality services to advanced technological solutions to Hospital — were part of the PoC, sionals enough time to intervene in Dr Younis Kazem, CEO of Dubai the people of Dubai. n 2 Health News Monday, May 27, 2019

quit tobacco without any support and fail a couple of times, they lose the confidence and start doubting whether smoking cessation is indeed possible.” DHA urges smokers to quit Those who suffer from health consequenc- es of smoking are mainly young adults and this is one of the reasons DHA has further strengthened its smoking cessation services, says Dr Salah Thabit, Family Physician at for World No Tobacco Day DHA’s smoking cessation clinics. “The major- ity of patients we see are in the age group of The authority urges members of the public to attend 20-40 years.” Approximately 350 smokers visited the Al its smoking cessation clinics to kick the unhealthy habit Twar and Al Barsha smoking cessation clin- ics in 2018. The centre provides a holistic approach to help smokers stub the habit. “Tobacco dependence is a behavioural, cog- nitive and physiological phenomenon, so we provide medical, psychological and social support,” Dr Thabit says. “We help smokers cope with nicotine withdrawal symptoms, which are among the main factors that prevent smokers from stubbing the habit.” He adds that patients need most support

“Try quitting with the help of health professionals in a planned manner so that the success rate is higher.”

Dr Nada Al Mulla Head of Nad Al Hammar PHC

Getty

KAMAKSHI GUPTA falls to about half that of a smoker. Tobacco when they experience withdrawal symptoms DHA smoking is also the leading cause of chronic Health benefits of smoking cessation such as nervousness, irritability, headaches, obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a insomnia and tiredness. his year, World No Tobacco Day condition where the build-up of pus-filled The centre offers a smoking cessation will focus on the ill effects of to- mucus in the lungs results in a painful cough Immediate and long-term Benefits in comparison package that includes blood investigations, bacco on health. Experts at Dubai and agonising breathing difficulties. 1 health benefits 2with those who continued: ECG, pulmonary function test and Smoker- T ◆◆ ◆◆ Health Authority (DHA) spoke to The risk of developing COPD is particular- Within 20 minutes, your At about 30: gain almost 10 lyzer test to measure the levels of toxic car- Better Health to discuss the ramifications of ly high among individuals who start smok- heart rate and blood years of life expectancy. bon monoxide inhaled from tobacco smoke. tobacco and the need for smokers to visit a ing at a young age, as tobacco smoke signifi- pressure drop. ◆◆ At about 40: gain 9 years of The clinic also provides medical and psycho- smoking cessation clinic to stub the habit. cantly slows lung development. Tobacco also ◆◆ 12 hours, the carbon life expectancy. logical support to smokers and offers four According to 2018 WHO statistics, to- exacerbates asthma, which restricts activ- monoxide level in your ◆◆ At about 50: gain 6 years of consultations as part of the package, which bacco kills more than seven million ity and contributes to disability. blood drops to normal. life expectancy. can be repeated or extended according to the people every year. More than six Early smoking cessation is the ◆◆ 2-12 weeks, your circulation ◆◆ At about 60: gain 3 years of patient’s condition. CCO DAY million of those deaths are the BA most effective treatment for improves and your lung life expectancy. Dr Al Mulla said smokers who quit can O function increases. ◆◆ After the onset of life- direct result of tobacco use T slowing the progression of experience the immediate health benefits of while around 890,000 are O COPD and improving asth- ◆◆ 1-9 months, coughing threatening disease: rapid tobacco cessation. N the result of non-smokers ma symptoms. However, and shortness of breath benefit, people who quit “People who quit smoking have a lower D

being exposed to second- L people do not take pre- decrease. smoking after having a risk of lung cancer but their risk is higher 9

R

hand smoke. 1 ventive measures. Most of ◆◆ 1 year, your risk of coronary heart attack reduce their than the risk of people who never smoked. O 0

2 W heart disease is about half chances of having another Tobacco consumption those who register with the Yet, it is important to note that quitting to- , is directly linked to sev- 1 cessation clinic are those that of a smoker’s heart attack by 50 per cent. bacco at any age can lower the risk of cancer 3 eral health complications Y who have already suffered ◆◆ 5 years, your stroke risk is Quitting smoking decreases and other chronic diseases.” A including heart attacks and M the ill effects of tobacco. reduced to that of a non- the excess risk of many Dr Thabit added that e-cigarettes are not Y, lung diseases such as cancer, FRIDA “The majority of patients smoker 5 to 15 years after diseases related to second- a solution as it is considered to be a tobacco chronic respiratory diseases and who visited DHA’s cessation clin- quitting. hand smoke in children, such product, according to WHO definition. tuberculosis. Moreover, young chil- ics tried to stub the habit only after to- ◆◆ 10 years, your risk of lung as respiratory diseases and E-cigarettes need further research to meas- dren exposed to second-hand smoke are at bacco use took a toll on their health,” says Dr cancer falls to about half ear . ure its long-term health effects, so for the risk of the onset and exacerbation of asthma, Nada Al Mulla, Family Physician and Head that of a smoker and your Quitting smoking reduces the time being it’s not considered a quitting aid. pneumonia, bronchitis and frequent lower of Nad Al Hammar Primary Healthcare Cen- risk of cancer of the mouth, chances of impotence, having The Smoking Cessation Clinic at Al Barsha respiratory infections. tre (PHC). “Sadly, people only think of quit- throat, esophagus, bladder, difficulty getting pregnant, provides cessation programmes and counsel- According to the World Health Organisa- ting after they have suffered the dire health cervix, and pancreas having premature births, ling every Monday afternoon and the Al To- tion, tobacco smoking is the primary cause consequences of tobacco use. decreases. babies with low birth weights war Centre provides cessation programmes of lung cancer, killing more than two thirds “Our message to smokers is to try quit- ◆◆ 15 years, the risk of coronary and miscarriage. and counseling every Wednesday afternoon of the affected globally. Quitting smoking ting with the help of health professionals in heart disease is that of a Source: World Health and Thursday morning. can reduce the risk of lung cancer: after 10 a planned manner so that the success rate nonsmoker’s. Organisation For more information, call the call center years of quitting smoking, risk of lung cancer is higher. When smokers try to randomly at 800DHA. n

GLOBAL SPECIALISTS TO PROVIDE CONSULTATIONS AT DHA NEXT MONTH

Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is hosting visiting doctors who are prac- tising medicine in countries such as the US, UK and India as part of its on- going programme to provide consulta- tion to patients in highly specialised and super-specialised medical fields on a monthly basis. Rashid Hospital: Consultant Neurosur- WELL OF HOPE INITIATIVE TO SUHOUR MEALS DISTRIBUTED BY geon, Dr Sahni Singh from the US will be TACKLE WATER SCARCITY DHA EMPLOYEES available from June 23 to 27. Dubai Hospital: Consultant Podiatric Dubai Health Authority (DHA), took part in the Well Dubai Health Authority (DHA) employees took part Surgeon, Dr Mark Teiko Tagoe from the of Hope initiative aimed at tackling water scarcity. in the initiative ‘Their Suhour is on us’, which was held UK will be available from June 16 to 20. The initiative is a part of the Arab Hope Makers by the Community Development Authority Youth and Gynaecology Consultant, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Council in partnership with the DHA’s Youth Council. Dr A. Kurian Joseph, from India will be Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Min- As part of the initiative, Suhour meals were dis- available from June 16 to 20. ister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The event was tributed to workers and less fortunate individu- Patients who wish to book a con- held on May 26 at Rashid Hospital. als at Abdul Rahim Al-Kateet Mosque in Al Quoz sultation appointment with these spe- DHA employees were invited to pump water after Taraweeh prayers last Tuesday. Volunteers cialists, may contact Dubai Hospital at through a virtual interactive pumping device. The from several public and private sector entities 04 219 5833 and Rashid Hospital at total amount pumped was donated to those living took part in the event, where they volunteered to 04 219 2900. in areas with limited access to clean water. distribute meals.

iStock and supplied Monday, May 27, 2019 Health News 3 Renovation of Rashid Hospital trauma lab complete The laboratory is able to deliver accurate results in less than 30 minutes

NOOR NAZZAL DHA

ubai Health Authority (DHA) has com- pleted renovation and expansion of Rashid Hospital Trauma Centre labo- D ratory, Pathology and Genetics Depart- ment to introduce the latest innovative laboratory diagnostic technology in the provision of health- care services. His Excellency Humaid Al Qutami, Director Gen- eral of DHA, toured the facility last Monday along with other DHA officials. The newly renovated and expanded facility is in line with the vision and mission of the authority of transforming Dubai into a leading healthcare destination by fostering innovative, smart and in- tegrated care models and achieving smart transfor- mations — to ultimately ensure the well-being and happiness of the people of Dubai. Dr Rania Medhat Seliem, Consultant Haemato- pathologist and Head of Rashid Hospital Pathology Laboratory, said that the newly renovated trauma lab has a fully equipped phlebotomy area, elec- tronically monitored sample receiving area, an au- Supplied tomated blood bank and a fully functional general ●● HE Humaid Al Qutami, Director General of DHA, and his team toured the laboratory, which can provide medical test results in less than 30 minutes laboratory. The Trauma Centre laboratory provides accurate, Dr Seliem added that the fully automated sys- than 11,500 units of different blood components quick and relevant results within 30 minutes of re- tem has the ability to handle the increasing work- yearly. The laboratory acquired the most advanced ceiving a sample for all patients attending emer- load with a minimal number of staff and reducing smart technology and installed the latest analysers gency department and inpatients of wards and This puts Rashid Hospital... delays in preanalytical processing and eliminate for the fully automated blood grouping and cross ICUs. sources of error in aliquoting samples. Adding the matching. “The general clinical pathology lab harbours the at the cutting edge of closed systems of automated centrifugation reduce “The new renovations will lead to significant cost first fully automated robotic system in DHA hospi- the biohazard risk of sample handling by the staff. savings while raising testing quality and optimis- tals,” explained Dr Seliem. technology and smart The Trauma Centre lab also contains the newly ing turnaround times,” said Dr Seliem. “This puts “The Modular Pre Analytical (MPA) module in- renovated and automated blood banking and trans- Rashid Hospital laboratory, Pathology & Genetics stalled is connected to the latest comprehensive solutions.” fusion services enabling the blood bank to cater for Department and Rashid Hospital at the cutting clinical chemistry analysers, which can process up the increasing demand of the growing Dubai popu- edge of technology and smart solutions for provid- to 120 racks an hour or 600 samples an hour. The Dr Rania Medhat Seliem lation. The blood bank in Rashid hospital labora- ing the optimum services for Dubai and northern system is operational via two softwares — Lab In- Head, Rashid Hospital Pathology Lab tory is the sole provider of blood components for emirates patients using the highest international formation System and Infinity.” all cases of accidents and emergency issuing more standard.” n Shutterstock Avoid overindulgence during Eid If you suffer from chronic conditions such as diabetes, it is important to refrain from overeating

KAMAKSHI GUPTA problems during this time. In be careful about both quantity DHA case of people with diabetes, and timing of food,” he said. especially those with type 1 “Similarly people with other verindulgence dur- diabetes, excessive sugar con- chronic conditions such as high ing Eid Al Fitr after sumption can put the pancreas blood pressure should watch a month of self- into an overdrive and this can out for salty foods.” O control can lead to lead to medical emergencies. In terms of medications, Dr health problems, especially “People with chronic condi- Farooqi said, “As we resume if you suffer from various ail- tions such as diabetes need to our usual routine, the timing ments, said a top DHA official. and dosage of medications also “Overloading a body that is need to revert to the pre-Ram- used to the Ramadan timetable adan schedule and this should can create health problems and be done as per your doctor’s is not advisable,” said Dr M. advice. Hamed Farooqi, Director of the “It would be better if the Dubai Diabetes Centre. blood sugar levels are moni- “Sweets including all kinds of tored more often than usual sugary drinks can cause a sig- during this phase of transition.” nificant elevation in blood sug- Similarly, the dietary pat- ar levels. For diabetic patients terns need to be normalised in in particular this can cause a a gradual manner. “Making the health problem.” right choices in terms of food Dr Farooqi said that in gen- and trying to keep these choic- eral, gastric issues such as nau- es as simple as possible go a sea, vomiting and indigestion long way in making this transi- are the most common health ●● Dr M. Hamed Farooqi tion smooth and successful.”  4 Nutrition Planet Monday, May 27, 2019 Monday, May 27, 2019 Nutrition Planet 5

EXPERTHOLISTIC ADVICE NUTRITION Natural solutions to

KEITH J. FERNANDEZ enough to help change many bad your dietary needs SPECIAL TO BETTER HEALTH health habits or even banish them,” explains Takidin. “Exercising self- Dr Hafeel Ambalath amadan can be an opportu- control over cigarettes or sugar Founder and CEO, The Healers’ Clinic nity to build new habits whose foods during the month of Rama- benefits can be channelled dan will provide strength and self- throughout the year. If you ob- confidence to kick all the bad habits, In Ramadan medical experts offer several dietary lifestyle tips to Is there a difference between liquid calories serve the rules of the holy month, and the body will gradually adapt to stay healthy over the holy month. However, these habits can be and calories from food? you should become more aware their absence until the addiction is just as effective over the rest of the year and can lead to im- Yes. Although the term calorie refers to the of food and water and their banished for good.” proved all-round health. Dubai nutritionists offer their top tips. energy content of both food and drinks, the impact on the body — all of which Ramadan offers other lessons. calories from solids and liquids have different come in handy when embracing a Baju specifically advises spending Watch those portions implications. new eating plan, or simply choosing more time with family and friends, After a long fast, doctors recommend sensible eating, of- Calories from liquids are often not considered a healthier way of life. an established Ramadan tradition. ten with small portions. “Fasting for long hours shrinks our when people think about their diet. There are “Fasting during Ramadan pro- Over the month, Muslim families stomach size leading to smaller appetites,” explains Alaa many examples of high-calorie drinks, including vides so many positive aspects to us around the world will make the Takidin, Clinical Dietitian and Nutritionist at Canadian Spe- certain fruit juices, carbonated drinks, sweet- as human beings spiritually, mental- time to break their fasts together cialist Hospital in Dubai. “I recommend eating more meals in ened drinks, karak chai and sweetened coffee. ly and physically,” says Alaa Takidin, regularly — sometimes even every smaller portion sizes, whether fasting or not. Eating smaller It’s also important to consider that the signals 5 foods for a Clinical Dietitian and Nutritionist day — and often invite friends and portions reduces your stomach size, eases digestion and ab- sent to your brain to indicate satiety are differ- at Canadian Specialist Hospital in colleagues to join in. Doing so can sorption, maintains your blood sugar within normal ranges as ent with liquids and solid foods. healthy heart Dubai. The health benefits of fast- lead to tremendous psychological well as improves your metabolism and aids in weight loss.” In the case of liquids, your thirst is quenched ing include regulating cholesterol and physiological pay-offs. Research when the quantity of water increases in your levels, boosting the immune system shows that strong social relation- Consider intermittent fasting blood stream. This results in you feeling less and brain function and optimising ships influence our long-term health Ramadan eating habits go well with the modern approaches thirsty. But liquids pass through your system the body’s natural detoxification, as powerfully as healthy diets, get- to intermittent fasting, where people go without food for 16 to 18 much quicker than the solid food, which makes Take care of your she explains. ting enough sleep and not smoking, hours a day, or eat just 500 calories every alternate day, all to the satiety hormones less effective. This usu- cardiovascular health by But how can you extend those resulting in happier, healthier and lose weight and improve overall health. “Ramadan fasting is a ally results in the consumption of more calories adding these items to gains to the rest of the year? Peo- longer lives. In 2010, for example, a form of intermittent fasting,” says Taikidin. “It just so happens through drinks. ple who fast in Ramadan often pay clinical review of some 150 studies that people practicing this form of fasting eat in the morn- When the people eat solid calories, signals your diet extra attention to the kind of food tracking more than 300,000 people ing before sunrise and again 12-15 hours later with one or from the nerves in the stomach wall are sent to that engenders feelings of fullness over an average of 7.5 years found two meals before bedtime. A 2012 Nutrition Research study your brain, which usually depends on the vol- 1. Blueberries and satiety and keep a close watch that people with strong social ties showed that Ramadan fasting has been associated with ume of food you have eaten. The intestines also Berries are a rich source of on whether they’re drinking enough were statistically 50 per cent more lowered fasting blood glucose and insulin levels as well as have hormones that fluctuate based on hunger antioxidants. In the case of water to prevent headaches and a likely to live longer regardless of improvements in insulin sensitivity connected to weight loss.” and satiety, helping the brain to send a stop sig- blueberries, they contain no generalised feeling of tiredness be- age, sex, health status and cause of Archana Baju, Clinical Dietician at Burjeel Hospital, however, nal for consuming more calories. saturated fats and are good cause of dehydration. Nevertheless, death, than those with weaker ties. advises caution. “There are no adequate studies to support the sources of fibre and vitamin when food and water are available So, from paying attention to what positive effect of intermittent fasting and long-term benefits. I’ve read that diet sodas aren’t necessarily C. Blueberries also contain on demand throughout the rest of you’re eating to getting together While the stress of intermittent fasting can bring about metabolic healthier — is this true? high levels of compounds the year, falling off the wagon is with friends, consider extending ele- changes that control blood sugar, blood pressure, total choles- All sodas carry the common characteristic of that have been found to help easy. ments of the Ramadan way of life to terol and reduction in weight over the short term, it’s important carbonisation. Generally, all artificially sweet- widen the arteries, hence their The difference lies in motivation, the rest of the year and beyond. Your not to overeat in the non-fasting period.” ened drinks (diet or not) may cause problems reputation for improving cardiovascular in finding a purpose and follow- health will benefit, sums up Takidin. for your stomach health in the long term. Sodas, health. ing through. “Healthy eating and a “Ramadan can lead to a lifetime Eat a proper breakfast usually interfere with the natural process of di- healthy lifestyle are always a choice change in your overall health.” Those fasting during Ramadan are advised not to skip gestion, both chemically as well as energetically. Following some of the principles — and what we decide is up to us,” suhour. Similarly, nutritionists advise eating breakfast on Prolonged use can cause bloating and less sa- 2. Tomatoes says Archana Baju, Clinical Dieti- regular days (although preliminary research shows that not tiety in many of my patients and from experi- Tomatoes contain significant of Ramadan can pay rich diet and tian at Burjeel Hospital. “Currently everyone requires it). “People who skip breakfast tend due ence, when they remove sodas from their diets, quantities of a plant pigment we’re seeing a greater incidence of The experts to overeat and make unhealthy meal choices. They gener- it makes them feel healthier. called lycopene, which lifestyle dividends over the rest of the lifestyle diseases and levels of child- ally crave sweets, fast foods and big meals because they are is a powerful source of year too, say Dubai nutritionists hood obesity are alarming. Unfor- hungry – this puts them at risk of diabetes, obesity and cardio- www.thehealersclinic.com, 04 385 5677 antioxidants. Antioxidants tunately, these are due to poor Alaa Takidin vascular diseases,” Baju says. She advises starting the day with help to neutralise free eating habits and inadequate Clinical Dietitian a breakfast loaded with proteins, fruits, wholegrains and nuts. radicals, which are molecules physical activity.” and Nutritionist “Energy is used even during sleep, and breakfast is the food that that are associated with Those who suc- at Canadian refuels our body and energy reserves for the day.” inflammation and damage, cessfully retain the Specialist which can lead to heart disease. In Ramadan mindset Hospital Drink more water fact, previous studies have found a link of discipline and Because fasting requires people to go without water dur- between low blood levels of lycopene self-management ing sunlight hours in Ramadan, they take extra care to ensure and an increased risk of heart attack over the course they’re getting enough to drink in non-fasting hours. But or stroke. of the year are Archana hydration is essential all year round, says Taikidin, because able to maintain Baju the lack of adequate water intake leads to dehydration, dis- their dietary Clinical turbing the body’s normal functions, sapping us of energy 3. Garlic gains and even Dietitian and leaving us fatigued. The recommended intake is 30ml Garlic has be used for its kick bad hab- at Burjeel water per kg body weight or 1ml water per kilocalorie. While medicinal properties for its. “Fasting the Hospital requirements differ for everyone, an adequate daily fluid intake centuries, including as whole month of is 3.7 litres for men and 2.7 litres for women, Baju says, quoting the a means for improving Ramadan is US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. people’s heart health. The herb contains a compound called allicin, which studies Pictures: Shutterstock iStock have found can be as effective as a common prescription drug at reducing blood pressure. In other studies, garlic has been found to inhibit platelet build-up, which has also been found to reduce the risk of Ocean trout with Spicy prawn and blood clots and stroke. harissa and yogurt pineapple poke 4. Edamame Prep and cook: 25 min Prep and cook: 40 mins These immature soybeans, served in the pod, are a Serves: 6 Serves: 4 popular entrée fixture on the menus of Asian Ingredients Ingredients restaurants across the city. The pods, usually served ◆◆ 6 ocean trout fillets Harissa ◆◆ 400g sushi rice, rinsed coconut flakes and lime boiled or steamed, are also a (about 180g each), skin ◆◆ 1 tsp cumin seeds ◆◆ 250ml coconut milk wedges, to serve rich source of soy isoflavones, on ◆◆ 1 tsp caraway seeds ◆◆ 16 cooked prawns, ◆◆ Coconut-green chilli which are flavonoids that can Flavours ◆◆ 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra ◆◆ 6 dried long red chillies, peeled with tails intact dressing help improve heart health and lower for drizzling soaked in hot water for 15 ◆◆ 250g pineapple, thinly ◆◆ 70ml coconut milk cholesterol. Edamame are also a good ◆◆ Juice of 1 lemon (or to minutes sliced ◆◆ 2 tbsp vegetable oil source of protein for vegans as well as taste), plus extra to serve ◆◆ 8 red bird’s-eye chillies ◆◆ 4 baby cucumbers, ◆◆ 2 tsp rice vinegar being rich in vitamins and minerals such ◆◆ Mixed soft herbs, pea ◆◆ 2 garlic cloves, chopped thinly sliced lengthways ◆◆ 1 tsp soy sauce as vitamin K and folate. from tendrils and labneh or ◆◆ 4 tbsp olive oil ◆◆ 1 tbsp finely chopped ◆◆ Juice of 1 lime thick yogurt, to serve Spanish onion ◆◆ ½ long green chilli, ◆◆ Coriander, thinly sliced thinly sliced 5. Apples Method long green chilli, finely ◆◆ ½ garlic clove, finely Apples contain high amounts grated lime rind, toasted grated of water and fibre, which 1. Preheat oven to 200 °C. are qualities that make the deep 2. Place trout skin-side up on a lightly oiled oven tray. Method them good for weight loss 3. Drizzle with olive oil and a little lemon juice, then roast until due to their filling nature. cooked to your liking (5-6 mins for medium-rare). 1. Bring rice, coconut milk, 250ml water and 1 tsp sea salt Apples also contain soluble Wholesome seafood treats 4. For the harissa, dry-roast spices until fragrant, then finely to a simmer in a saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover fibre, which can help lower crush with a mortar and pestle. with a tight-fitting lid and cook without uncovering for blood cholesterol levels. One 5. Combine chillies and garlic in a jug and blend with a hand- 20 mins. Remove from heat and stand covered for 10 study compared consuming an held blender, until finely chopped. mins, then uncover and fluff up rice with a fork. apple a day to taking statins, and found 6. Add spice mixture and a large pinch of salt, then blend, 2. For coconut-green chilli dressing, shake ingredients in a that they were almost as affective as gradually adding oil, until a coarse purée. jar to combine and season to taste. reducing the risk of preventing heart 7. Toss pea tendrils and herbs in a little olive oil and lemon 3. Divide warm coconut rice among serving bowls, top disease or stroke. juice. with prawns, pineapple, cucumber and onion, drizzle 8. Spread labneh on serving plates or bowls, top with fish and with dressing, scatter with coriander, chilli, lime rind and a spoonful of harissa and serve with salad. coconut flakes. Serve with lime wedges. Pictures: Shutterstock Pictures: Pictures and recipes: Camera Press 6 Maximum Fitness Monday, May 27, 2019

re you a busy person? You don’t need to spend hours at the gym everyA day to achieve 3 your fitness goals. Three OVERHEAD MINIMAL EXERCISESFOR days a week is all you need to achieve great results if DUMBBELL PRESS you make a smart exercise Muscles worked: selection and hit them Anterior deltoids (front hard with good volume and shoulders), triceps and intensity. MAXIMAL RESULTS core (stabilisers) HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR WORKOUT IF YOU’RE SHORT ON TIME A well-designed workout programme may consist of Form tip: Stand with all unsupported compound stance shoulder-width movements that target with dumbbells held at maximum muscle groups in a the shoulder level and single rep. These movements palms facing away from cause maximum breakdown you. Keep the chest up. of muscles, leading to overall Breathe in deep and functional strength and brace the core. Press the muscle gains. To those who weights upwards until are looking to lose fat, these the elbows lock out. exercises also burn maximum calories! 1 PULL-UPS

Muscles worked: Upper back, biceps and core ABHINAV MALHOTRA Form tip: Hold a bar Master Trainer at with a tight grip just Fitness First, Sports wider than shoulders, Nutritionist, Exercise arms extended fully. Referral and Lower Pull the shoulder Back Specialist. blades back and down and powerfully pull Instagram : yourself up until the 4 fitness_abhinav chin goes over the BENT-OVER BARBELL ROWS Website : bar. Come back to the www.abhifit.com starting position. Muscles worked: Upper back, biceps, core and spine (as stabilisers) Form tip: Stand holding a barbell with pronated grip (palms facing towards you). Keeping the knees soft, start pushing the hips back getting the torso parallel to the floor, spine stays neutral. Pull the barbell towards the belly button in full range of motion, keeping it close to 2 the body. Lower the bar back towards the floor until the arms are fully extended. REGULAR DEADLIFT

Muscles worked: Entire legs (glutes, hamstrings, quadriceps), lower back, 5 upper back, arms, traps FRONT SQUAT and core. Form tip: Load a Muscles worked: barbell and roll it Quadriceps, glutes and core. up to your shins Form tip: Start in the power with cage with barbell placed your feet on shoulder height. shoulder-width Place the barbell apart. Grab the bar on the shoulder by with an overhand getting under the grip (alternating grip bar. Stand in the when you get into heavier rack position, weights) and your arms with feet just outside of your shoulder-width, toes knees. Push the hips back slightly out. Make keeping the spine neutral sure to breathe in and and chest up. Breathe in brace your core well. Squat deep, pull the shoulder back sitting down on the blades back and down heels. Thighs below parallel and just stand up with to the floor. Knees aligned the weights. To lower the with the toes all throughout. barbell, simply push the Return to the start position hips back, allowing the bar powerfully pushing through to drop close to the body the heels. As you go down, on to the floor. push the elbows upwards.

Pictures: Stefan Lindeque

KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY A DUBAI-BASED FITNESS PROFESSIONAL Exercising safely with high blood pressure Ross Gilmour Director of Training at Embody Fitness Dubai

he modern lifestyle moves tion changes needed to return back to at an unprecedented pace. a healthy baseline. As a result, stressors are at High-volume heavy lifting or getting T an all-time high both exter- thrashed in a group exercise class is nally and self-imposed. This has led to not a smart idea. Instead, start with a

us getting out of touch with what our minimum effective dose and build up iStock baseline health should be objectively as health and fitness improves. and subjectively. I would start clients with two 30-min- proving stroke volume of the heart and The old standard for blood pressure ute resistance training sessions. These bring BP back to where we need it. was 120/80 (systolic/diastolic) but sessions are intense but are followed After three to four weeks we can start we should be aiming for 115/75. Most up with mobility work to induce a para- High-volume heavy ramping up training gradually. people will be well above this, rang- sympathetic, or in simple terms rest Stress is called the silent killer for a ing from prehypertension to stage and digest state. They will also per- lifting or getting reason. Make stress management a pri- 2 hypertension. form an additional 30-45 minutes of ority with exercise helping as opposed There are no specific exercises to light aerobic work at 130-150 beats per thrashed in a group to hindering you. lower high blood pressure, but rather minute, two to three times a week on exercise class is not a the style of exercise should support the non-lifting days. This will help to keep The writer is a REPS-certified trainer lifestyle, stress management and nutri- exercise-induced stress low, while im- smart idea.” Instagram: @coachrossgilmour Monday, May 27, 2019 Lifestyle & Disease Management 7 The lowdown on fibromyalgia Here’s what you need to know about the often misunderstood disorder that affects more women than men

PETER FEELY ● Rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune roidism) or autoimmune conditions such as EDITOR diseases, such as lupus rheumatoid arthritis. ● Central nervous system problems At present, there aren’t any specific blood r Ahmed Bondok, Specialist Rheuma- ● Fibromyalgia may be hereditary. Women who tests, X-rays or scans that can confirm a diag- tologist at Medcare Hospital Sharjah, have a close relative with fibromyalgia have a nosis of fibromyalgia, and many people with answers questions on the often un- higher risk of experiencing it themselves. fibromyalgia will have normal results in all D diagnosed musculoskeletal disorder ● People with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or these tests. However, your doctor may suggest that can also affect sleep, mood and memory. spinal arthritis, known as ankylosing spon- you have blood tests to rule out other possible dylitis, have a higher risk of developing causes of your symptoms and so support a How would you describe fibromyalgia? fibromyalgia, as do patients with some other diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that rheumatic diseases. “The current thinking in the field Until recently, the diagnosis of fibromyalgia can cause widespread pain and tenderness over was made based on specific tender points in much of the body. What are the main signs and symptoms of of suggests that certain areas of your body. However, guide- fibromyalgia and how difficult is it to diag- fibromyalgia is a problem with lines released in 2010 recommend that health- Why do you believe it affects more women nose? care professionals should now consider the than men? The main symptoms of fibromyalgia are: central pain processing in the brain.” following features when making a diagnosis: Anyone can develop fibromyalgia, although it ● Widespread pain Dr Ahmed Bondok ● Widespread pain lasting three months or affects around seven times as many women as ● Extreme tiredness (fatigue) Specialist Rheumatologist, more men. The condition typically develops between ● Sleep disturbance Medcare Hospital Sharjah ● Fatigue and/or waking up feeling unre- the ages of 30 and 50, but can occur in people of freshed any age. It is not clear exactly how many people Less frequent symptoms include: ● Problems with thought processes such as are affected by fibromyalgia, although research ● Poor circulation: tingling, numbness or swell- memory and understanding (cognitive suggests it could be a relatively common condi- ing in the hands and feet symptoms) tion. One of the main reasons it is not clear how ● Headaches many people are affected is because fibromyal- ● Irritability or feeling miserable How common is it to find patients with gia can be a difficult condition to diagnose. ● Feeling an urgent need to urinate, especially fibromyalgia in the UAE? at night It’s quite common. A lot of my patients have What are the theories behind the causes of ● Irritable or uncomfortable bowels been diagnosed by firbromyalagia from stress. the disorder and what would you consider (diarrhoea or constipation and risk factors? abdominal pain) sometimes Although there is no cure, what steps The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unclear. How- separately diagnosed as irritable do you take to control the symptoms? ever, current thinking in the field of Rheumatol- bowel syndrome (IBS). There are ways of managing your ogy suggests that fibromyalgia is a problem with Fibromyalgia is often difficult to symptoms. Your doctor will be able central pain processing in the brain, where there diagnose as the symptoms vary to suggest treatments and thera- may be an increased sensitivity or perception of considerably and could have other pies to tackle specific aspects of the pain to a given trigger risk factors, including: causes. The symptoms can be condition. These may include drug ● A stressful, traumatic physical or emotional similar to those of other condi- treatments but physical and other event, such as a car accident tions, for example an underac- therapies are just as important or ● Repetitive injuries tive thyroid gland (hypothy- even more so. Many people with fibromyalgia can learn to manage their condi- REDUCING YOUR RISK WITH LIFESTYLE CHANGES tion so that they can continue to live their lives enjoyably despite their symptoms. n Exercise also helpful. Yoga has been symptoms. Treatments Keeping active with a com- shown to help some people such as massage and acu- bination of aerobic activity with fibromyalgia. puncture may temporarily and exercises to improve ease the pain and discom- your flexibility, will help Diet fort, although they often prevent this happening. Ex- No particular diet has been don’t result in long-term ercise can also help you to proven to help fibromyal- relief of symptoms. get a better night’s sleep. gia, but we recommend Aerobic simply means in- keeping your weight within Improve your sleep creasing the circulation of healthy range by eating a Poor sleep is a key symp- oxygen through the blood. balanced diet with plenty tom of fibromyalgia, so Any exercise that gets you of fruit and vegetables. getting enough good-qual- breathing more heavily and ity sleep is an important your heart beating faster is Complementary part of the treatment. Not aerobic. Swimming is par- therapies only will it help with tired- ticularly recommended for Some people with fibromy- ness and fatigue but you people with fibromyalgia, algia find that complemen- may also find it helps with but walking and cycling are tary medicines help their your pain.

iStock

Link between circadian rhythm and immune response The severity of health issues, ranging from allergic reactions to heart attacks, is influenced by the time of day

PETER FEELY cialised immune responses develop The scientists also found association EDITOR over time and that they are under cir- between the time of day and the me- cadian control. tabolism’s ability to fight infections, in- he circadian rhythm is our In the case of heart attacks, the re- flammation and the severity of allergic internal 24-hour body clock searchers found that they most com- reactions allergic reactions. that regulates a number monly strike in mornings and that “Investigating circadian rhythms in T of functions, ranging from morning heart attacks tend to be more innate and adaptive immunity is a great sleepiness and alertness to our pro- severe than those at night. They related tool to generally understand the physi- duction of white blood cells. this to the production of monocytes in ological interplay and time-dependent In a recent study, scientists from mice, which are a type of white blood succession of events in generating im- Switzerland examined the relationship cell that protects the body from bacte- mune responses,” explained Christoph between our immune responses and ria, viruses and fungi. Scheiermann, an immunologist at the circadian rhythms and found a direct The scientists found that monocytes University of Geneva. link between the severity of health is- are more elevated in the blood stream “The challenge lies in how to channel sues and the time of day. during the day and that at night, their our growing mechanistic understand- To reach their conclusions, the re- presence is elevated in heart tissue, ing of circadian immunology into time- searchers reviewed and compared and hence the heart is more vulnerable tailored therapies for human patients.” data from previous studies, predomi- in the morning, when protection levels The research was published in the

nantly on mice. They found that spe- drop. journal, Trends in Immunology. iStock 8 Life Alternatives Monday, May 27, 2019

THE LAST WORD

How to prepare for a healthy Eid

Dr Nada Al Mulla, family medicine physician and head of Nad Al Hammar Primary Health Centre

fter the holy month of Ramadan and after the Eid celebrations, it is im- portant to readjust our body clock A back to the normal routine. I always advise my patients to get their blood tests and other regular diagnostic tests done one week before Eid so that doctors can assess where they stand in terms of their health and their medication can be adjusted accordingly. Normally we find that patients, who are disciplined during Ramadan, have improved health outcomes compared to those who have not followed a healthy eating pattern. Once the doctor provides the adjusted med- Less screen use improves ication dosage, we strongly advise our pa- tients, especially those with chronic diseases like diabetes to be mindful of their eating hab- its during the Eid celebrations. teens’ sleep in one week After Eid, we advise people to try to have an early breakfast so that it is close to the suhoor hour. It is advisable to have small meals during iStock the day. By reducing their exposure to light-emitting screens, the To prevent deep sleep during the day and late afternoon, it is better to take a short nap adolescents were able to fall asleep 20 minutes earlier that is not more than 30 minutes and to make sure the room is not dark to avoid sleeping for new study from the Netherlands screen time each day. The teenagers with age group. Here we show very simply that a longer period of time. suggests that limiting teenagers’ high-screen exposure also exhibited more these sleep complaints can be easily As a rule, it is best to completely avoid caf- exposure to blue-light emitting symptoms of sleep deprivation. reversed by minimising evening screen feine after 3pm so that you can fall asleep on A devices such as smartphones and The team then conducted a trial to assess use or exposure to blue light. Based on our time at night. This habit really helps reset the tablets can improve their sleep and mood in the affect that blocking the blue light with data, it is likely that adolescent sleep com- body back to the regular routine. less than one week. glasses and limiting the amount of screen plaints and delayed sleep onset are at Make exercise a priority. I always recommend For the study, researchers from the Nether- time had on the quality of the teenagers’ least partly mediated by blue light going back to an exercise schedule. The longer lands Institute of Neuroscience, the Amster- sleep. They found that the changes reduced from screens. you take to start exercising, the harder it gets. dam UMC and the Dutch National Institute by the onset of sleep by 20-minutes and less- “Sleep disturbances start with minor Smokers should visit a cessation clinic as it is for Public Health and the Environment in- ened their symptoms of sleep deprivation af- symptoms of tiredness and poor concentra- easier to quit smoking during the holy month vestigated the effects of blue-screen use on ter just one week. tion but in the long term we know that sleep or just after since, the body is use to abstaining adolescents in their homes. Dr Dirk Jan Stenvers from the department loss is associated with increased risk of obe- from nicotine during the fasting hours. They found that those who had more than of and Metabolism of the Am- sity, diabetes and heart disease. If we can in- Continue the self-discipline you have dur- four hours-a-day screen time, had a 30-min- sterdam UMC, said, “Adolescents increasing- troduce simple measures now to tackle this ing the holy month by sticking to simple good ute longer onset of sleep and woke 30 min- ly spend more time on devices with screens issue, we can avoid greater health problems habits such as healthy meals, regular exercise utes later than those who had one-hour of and sleep complaints are frequent in this in years to come.”  and enough hours of sleep. 

Moderate red meat consumption linked with increased cancer risk A study suggests that even when consumed in moderation, red meat may increase the chances of cancer by 20 per cent iStock New therapy trialled for type 1 diabetes Scientists have developed a new method for pancreatic islet transplantation that reduces the chance of rejection

slets are clusters of cells in the pancre- International Journal of Pharmaceutics paper. as that work to regulate blood sugar The scientists found that after an implantation iStock by producing insulin. Islet transplan- using the magnetically purified islets, rats that I tation is the process where islet cells were induced to develop type-1 diabetes were n the UK, government guidelines and co-author of the study said, “We are not are separated from a donor pancreas and then able to retain normal blood glucose levels for suggest that if you eat more than claiming that therefore the government recom- transplanted into a patient with type-1 diabetes. 17 weeks. 90g of red or processed meat each mendation is wrong and should be changed. One of the main barriers to this form of treat- First author of the study, Albert Espona- I day, you should try to cut down Meat is important for iron. We would want to ment is immune rejection from the diabetic re- Noguera, said, “One of the drawbacks of islet 70g or less to reduce your risk of developing consider other aspects of health if we were go- cipient. Previously, this issue was remedied by transplants is the long-term use of immunosup- bowel cancer. ing to change the recommendation. The main placing the islets inside microcapsules made pressant drugs to prevent the immune rejection Now, a five-year study of almost half-a-mil- message for the public is that it reinforces the from a material that is less likely to produce an of the transplanted islets; these drugs lower lion men and women using data from the UK government advice that we shouldn’t eat large immune response. the patient’s defences and entail serious medical Biobank suggests that even those who ate and amounts of red and processed meat.” The issue with using microcapsules is that for complications.” average of 76g or less red or processed meat In March, a study by the Loma Linda Univer- the process to work, large volumes are required Currently, islet transplants are not available each day had a 20 per cent risk of developing sity Adventist Health Sciences Center in Cali- to achieve the desired result. This results in high to the majority of type-1 diabetes sufferers and bowel cancer, compared to those who averaged fornia also suggested that consuming just small numbers of empty capsules being transplanted they need to take insulin and monitor their blood 21g each day. amounts of red meat may increase the risk of into the pancreas, which increases the risk of an glucose levels. All of the Biobank participants in the study early death from diseases, in particular cardio- immune reaction. There is a lack of donors and diabetics usually were also asked about their diet when they vascular disease. Michael Orlich, co-author of Now, researchers from the University of the need to take immunosuppressant for the rest of joined the study as well as being asked to fill the study said, “Our findings give additional Basque Country in Spain have developed a sys- their lives, yet this new technique means that out questionnaires every three to four months weight to the evidence already suggesting that tem where a magnetic system is used to purify scarce donor cells can be used more efficiently about their exact diet in the previous 24-hours. eating red and processed meat may negatively the empty microcapsules. The results of the trial, and effective and the diabetic won’t need to re- Professor Tim Key from Cancer Research UK impact health and lifespan.”  which was tested on rats, was published in an main on medication. 