Increase in babies in England born by Caesarean

 

Latest figures for 2023/24 show 42% of all deliveries were Caesarean.

The proportion has increased steadily over the past decade, and experts say it is linked to a "growing number" of more "complex" pregnancies - because the mother is older or obese, for example.

 

But some mothers are choosing to have a Caesarean - where the baby is delivered by surgeons cutting into the mother's abdomen and womb - for non-medical reasons.

 

Last year, of the 398,675 deliveries performed by the NHS in England - where the method of starting labour was recorded -101,264 (25%) were Caesarean births.

 

Of those, 67,100 were a planned or "elective" procedure.Data shows a further 32,463 deliveries were started by Caesarean and carried out as an emergency - due to urgent health concerns for the mother or baby which arose before labour could start spontaneously or be induced, for example.

 

Overall, there were 225,762 deliveries by Caesarean in 2023/24 (42% of all deliveries), of which 99,783 were elective and 125,979 were registered as emergency Caesareans. In comparison, a decade ago in 2013/14, 166,081 deliveries - 26% - were by Caesarean.

 

'Rising rates'

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) president, Dr Ranee Thakar, said complex births were a "major factor". "We are seeing national rising rates of obesity and people choosing to have children at a later state in their life, both of which can increase the chance of complications," she said. The likelihood of a Caesarean increased with the mother's age.

And for those aged over 39, it was the most common method of onset and delivery. Most women under 30 had "spontaneous" labour without medical intervention, and the most common method of delivery was vaginal births. A third of all deliveries were induced, meaning labour was started using artificial methods such as a hormone drip or a pessary. The RCOG does not promote one form of birth over another.

 

'Major operation'

 Experts say women should have a choice about how they give birth, whenever circumstances allow it and it is deemed safe. The NHS recently removed a limit on how many Caesareans it performs. Previously maternity units were encouraged to promote vaginal births and keep the Caesarean rate to about 20%. But NHS advice now says women have the right to a planned Caesarean if it is considered safe for mother and baby. An NHS spokesman said: "A Caesarean is a major operation that comes with risks, so it's usually done when it's the safest option for women and their baby. "However, some do choose to have a C-section for a non-medical reason.

"NHS maternity teams across the country are fully committed to providing the safest and most personalised care possible to all women, according to best-practice guidance and informed by evidence, to help them to achieve the type of birth they would like."

This Articles  source is from https://bbc.com/news/articles/c8ew4jjr252o

Suffering From Frequent Acidity? Here Are Some Home Remedies To Try On

Acidity, sometimes referred to as heartburn or acid reflux, is a prevalent problem that many people experience, especially in the morning. A burning feeling in the chest or throat is caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. Frequent episodes of acidity can interfere with daily lifestyle. This problem can be made worse by stress, bad food habits, and irregular sleep patterns. There are several natural ways to reduce morning acidity that offer immediate relief without the need for prescription drugs.

Acidity: What Are The Symptoms?

• Heartburn,
• Regurgitation,
• Indigestion pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen,
• Gas and bloating,
• Having trouble swallowing, and
• Wheezing or coughing

Home Remedies To Cure Acidity

1. 1. Ajwain- Ajwain, sometimes referred to as carom seeds, can help reduce bloating and acidity. Drinking ajwain water or chewing on a few ajwain seeds will help promote the release of digestive juices and lessen acid reflux symptoms. Additionally, ajwain possesses anti-inflammatory qualities that may help calm the gastrointestinal system.
2. 2. Buttermilk- It can help neutralize the acid and has a calming effect on the stomach. It contains lactic acid, which has an alkalizing impact on the body while being acidic. After meals, buttermilk can help relieve the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn.
3. 3. Apple Cider Vinegar- Diluting apple cider vinegar with water can help improve digestion by balancing the stomach’s pH. Many people find it useful for bloating and digestive problems, but there is little scientific evidence to support its efficacy for heartburn.
4. 4. Lukewarm Water- Quick relief from acidity can be obtained by drinking lukewarm water, which also helps to aid digestion and dilute stomach acid. When taken after meals, it helps the digestive system process food more effectively and is very beneficial. Cold water can affect the stomach and exacerbate symptoms.
5. 5. Bananas- Fruits like bananas can help balance the stomach’s high acidity and lessen the risk of heartburn. Ripe bananas are rich in minerals like potassium, which support the body’s pH equilibrium, they are very healthy. Another fruit that can help with acidity is papaya.
6. 6. Black Cumin seed- Because of its anti-inflammatory qualities, black cumin seeds can help calm the digestive tract and lessen acid reflux. To use black cumin seeds, make a paste using a teaspoon of the seeds and water, then eat it after meals. Although there isn’t much scientific proof that black cumin seeds can directly reduce acid reflux, they can be combined with other treatments to get even more advantages

Acidity can be upsetting and uncomfortable, especially in the morning. Fast relief can be obtained, nevertheless, by combining easy and efficient home remedies. Long-term relief is ensured by combining these treatments with lifestyle modifications like stress management and avoiding big meals late at night. If your condition worsens, consult a doctor for treatment.

Try These 3 Easy Exercises On A Pilates Reformer To Get A Toned Waist Like Ananya Panday

When Ananya Panday is not impressing the fashion police with her sartorial choices, she is busy dedicating her time to her fitness regime. Be it yoga or Pilates, her fitness regime incorporates a lot of forms of workouts that help her maintain her svelte frame. Recently, her fitness instructor – Namrata Purohit – shared a picture of the actor sweating it out on a Pilates reformer.

In a picture shared by Namrata Purohit, Ananya Panday was seen performing the side plank on a Pilates reformer. She captioned the picture as, “@ananyapanday…Consistency and hard work always pays off." The actor was seen dressed in a black crop top which she had paired with a pair of black leggings. The side plank on a Pilates reformer adds pressure on the core and helps build a slimmer waist.

In case you are also aiming for a toned body this festive season, then here are three simple exercises that will help you to reach there.

1. 1. Side Plank Twist

For the side plank twist, lie on the side on the Pilates reformer. Place one hand behind your head and exhale. Lift the other hand towards the ceiling and keep the pelvis still. Make sure that your feet are separated. Hold for some time and let go.

2. 2. Scissors Criss-Cross
3. A quick and simple exercise for targeting the waist is the scissors crisscross. Start by lying on your back with your hands supporting your head. Lift one leg, and twist your torso toward that leg, engaging your core as you exhale. On the inhale, switch to the other leg and twist in the opposite direction. Repeat this movement a few times before resting.
4. 3. Double Lunge Twist

Start in a standing position with your hands behind your head, one leg forward and the other leg back. As you exhale, bend both knees while twisting your torso toward the front leg. Inhale to return to the starting position and repeat the movement for a few more reps before resting.

New nutritional recommendations emphasize increased consumption of plant-based foods and a reduction in processed items and added sugars.

 

A dietary advisory board suggests that Americans increase their intake of legumes while cutting down on red and processed meats, alongside avoiding ultraprocessed foods and discussions about alcohol usage. Americans are encouraged to incorporate more beans, peas, and lentils into their diets while reducing their consumption of red, processed meats, and starchy vegetables, all while maintaining limits on added sugars, sodium, and saturated fats. This guidance was provided by a panel of nutrition professionals on Tuesday, tasked with advising the U.S. government regarding the 2025 dietary guidelines, which will serve as the foundation for federal food programs and policies.

However, the 20-member panel did not address the increasing prevalence of ultraprocessed foods associated with adverse health outcomes, stating that the evidence is not sufficient to recommend avoidance. Additionally, the committee chose not to update the contentious recommendations regarding alcohol consumption, deferring this analysis to two external reports anticipated to be published soon. Overall, the proposals for the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans appear to echo previous guidance, according to Marion Nestle, a food policy authority. “This resembles prior dietary recommendations since 1980: consume vegetables and reduce intake of foods high in salt, sugar, and saturated fat,” Nestle mentioned in an email. “This specific statement fails to address the issue of balancing calorie intake when overconsumption, particularly from ultraprocessed foods, poses a significant challenge to the health of Americans.” Insights from the panel on healthy dietary practices The nutrition panel concluded that a healthy eating pattern for individuals aged 2 years and older should consist of increased vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, whole grains, fish, and vegetable oils rich in unsaturated fats. Conversely, it should be lower in red and processed meats, sugar-laden foods and drinks, refined grains, and saturated fats. It may also comprise fat-free or low-fat dairy products and foods with reduced sodium, alongside plant-based options. The panel, which convened for nearly two years, was the first to examine dietary needs through what they termed a “health equity lens,” according to Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital involved in the group. This perspective encompassed considerations like household income,

race, ethnicity, and culture when making dietary recommendations, aiming to ensure that the guidance reflects the diversity of various population groups, she stated in an email. The panel did not reach conclusions regarding ultraprocessed foods or alcohol consumption. Ultraprocessed foods, which include snacks, sugary cereals, and frozen meals, constitute about 60% of the American diet. The panel evaluated over 40 studies, some indicating a correlation between ultraprocessed foods and weight gain or obesity. However, the panel expressed concerns about the research quality, leading them to determine that the evidence was too scant to formulate recommendations. This decision could conflict with the views of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the designated nominee for the U.S. Health and Human Services Department, who has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest among dietary guidelines panel members and pledged to address ultraprocessed foods contributing to chronic health issues. The panel also did not modify recommendations suggesting limited alcohol intake, capping it at two drinks per day for men and one for women. In 2020, when the guidance was last revised, the government disregarded the scientific advisors' counsel to advocate for reduced alcohol consumption. Two organizations—the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine and a committee from the agency overseeing substance abuse—are preparing to publish reports shortly on the impact of moderate alcohol consumption to aid in refining the guidelines. Do Americans adhere to dietary recommendations? The advisory panel recognized that most Americans' diets fall short of current guidelines. Over half of U.S. adults suffer from one or more diet-related chronic health conditions, and around 18 million households in the U.S. face food insecurity, as stated in the report. “Chronic health issues related to nutrition and their precursors continue to jeopardize health throughout the lifespan,” the report concludes. “This does not bode well for the future health landscape in the United States.” What’s next? 

The scientific report will inform the dietary guidelines, which are updated every five years. The recommendations presented on Tuesday will now be forwarded to HHS and the Department of Agriculture, where officials will draft the final guidelines, scheduled for release next year. As of Wednesday, the public will have 60 days to provide feedback on the guidance, with HHS and USDA officials planning a public meeting on January 16 to discuss the recommendations. 

The Importance of Incorporating Custard Apple Fruit into Your Winter Nutrition

 

Winter can pose significant health challenges, as even minor lapses in care can lead to ailments. To navigate this season with wellness, certain fruits prove to be exceptionally advantageous, and custard apple, or cherimoya, is among them. This luscious and creamy fruit is abundant in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. By incorporating custard apples into your daily winter nutrition, you can support your health and fitness goals. A report by Healthline emphasizes that custard apples are fiber-dense, which facilitates digestive processes. Consuming this fruit can alleviate issues such as constipation, gas, bloating, and other digestive discomforts.

Moreover, the fruit aids in detoxifying the body and purifying the intestines. Its ample fiber content contributes to prolonged satiety, which helps curb overeating and digestive troubles. Those experiencing digestive difficulties should certainly consider adding custard apple to their winter fare.

A robust immune system is vital in winter to fend off illnesses. Custard apple is high in vitamin C, which strengthens immunity and enhances the body’s defenses against diseases. Vitamin C serves as an antioxidant, shielding the body from infections and seasonal ailments like colds and coughs. Furthermore, custard apples contain potassium, magnesium, and fiber, all of which promote cardiovascular health. Potassium assists in controlling blood pressure and may lower the risk of heart-related diseases.

The antioxidants found in custard apple bolster heart health by diminishing inflammation in blood vessels. They also help in lowering levels of bad cholesterol, thereby improving overall cardiac function. Vitamins A and C present in custard apple are fantastic for skin health, helping to reduce wrinkles and maintain skin hydration and radiance. They also promote healthy hair by preventing hair loss and enhancing softness and strength.

For individuals with diabetes, custard apples might be advantageous as they may assist in stabilizing blood sugar levels. Several studies indicate that custard apples can alleviate diabetes symptoms. Additionally, being a low-calorie fruit rich in fiber, it can aid in weight loss efforts. It boosts metabolism and detoxifies the body, making it a valuable component of the diet for those seeking to shed pounds.

Nine Health Benefits of Consuming Brahmi Leaves Juice Each Morning

 

Health Benefits of Brahmi Leaves Juice: Brahmi, or Bacopa monnieri in scientific terms, is an age-old healing herb cherished in Ayurveda for its myriad of health advantages. Historically utilized to boost cognitive abilities and enhance general well-being, Brahmi leaves are becoming increasingly recognized as a natural health enhancer. Sipping on Brahmi leaves juice every morning is an easy and efficient method to seize its therapeutic qualities.

This article delves into the top Nine health benefits of incorporating Brahmi leaves juice into your morning dietary habits.

Nine Health Benefits of Consuming Brahmi Leaves Juice Each Morning

Thinking of integrating Brahmi leaves juice into your morning dietary routines? Here are the top Nine advantages this remarkable drink can offer your health.

Enhances Brain Function

Brahmi is celebrated for its brain-boosting attributes. Consistent intake of Brahmi leaves juice can enhance memory, concentration, and overall cognitive performance. The active ingredients in Brahmi, such as bacosides, have been proven to encourage the development of nerve cells and enhance synaptic communication. This makes it a fantastic option for students and professionals aiming to elevate their mental capabilities.

Alleviates Stress and Worry

In our current fast-moving world, stress and worry are prevalent challenges. Brahmi leaves juice serves as a natural adaptogen, assisting the body in managing stress. It helps balance cortisol levels, the hormone linked to stress. By adding this juice to your daily habits, you can enjoy a more serene mind and diminished anxiety, contributing to better overall mental health.

Promotes Digestive Health

A key advantage of Brahmi leaves juice is its beneficial impact on digestion. The juice is known to stimulate the generation of digestive enzymes, facilitating more efficient food breakdown. This can enhance nutrient absorption and lessen digestive problems like bloating and constipation. Regular consumption of Brahmi juice can foster a healthy gut and improve overall digestive wellness.

Enhances Immunity

A robust immune system is vital for warding off infections and illnesses. Brahmi leaf juice is abundant in antioxidants, which combat free radicals in the body. These antioxidants fortify the immune system, making it more capable of fighting off diseases. Drinking Brahmi juice daily can bolster your body's natural defenses and promote better health.

 

Encourages Healthy Skin

The benefits of Brahmi leaves juice also extend to skincare. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics can soothe skin irritations and foster a clear complexion. Regular intake can lead to healthier, radiant skin, making it a favored choice for individuals pursuing natural skincare remedies. Additionally, it aids in reducing signs of aging and enhances skin elasticity.

Supports Cardiovascular Health

Maintaining heart health is essential for overall wellness, and Brahmi leaves juice can contribute to this. The juice assists in lowering cholesterol levels and enhances blood circulation, thereby minimizing the risk of heart-related ailments. By incorporating Brahmi juice into your daily regimen, you can support your cardiovascular system and encourage longevity.

Enhances Sleep Quality

Quality sleep is crucial for overall health, and Brahmi leaves juice can assist in achieving it. The soothing effects of Brahmi aid in alleviating insomnia and improving sleep patterns. Drinking this juice before sleep can foster relaxation and help you drift off more quickly, resulting in more restorative nights.

Benefits Respiratory Health

Brahmi leaf juice is also advantageous for respiratory well-being. It possesses expectorant properties that can help eliminate mucus from the airways, making breathing easier. Consistent consumption can relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions and enhance overall lung health, especially during allergy seasons.

Aids Liver Function

Lastly, Brahmi leaf juice promotes liver health by detoxifying the body and enhancing liver function. The antioxidants in Brahmi protect the liver from harmful toxins and support its ability to filter out detrimental substances. This can lead to improved overall health and vitality.

Brahmi leaves juice is a traditional remedy that offers a comprehensive approach to health and wellness.

Suffering From PCOD? Here’s How You Can Reverse The Symptoms

Polycystic Ovarian Disease, or PCOD, is a medical condition in which a woman’s ovaries produce an excess of immature or partially mature eggs that eventually form cysts. This leads to enlarged ovaries and an increase in androgens, or male hormones, which disrupt the menstrual cycle and can cause symptoms like irregular periods, weight gain, hair thinning, and infertility. However, managing PCOD is possible with the right dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease): Signs And Symptoms

The symptoms of PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) can manifest at different stages of a woman’s life. For some, symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and excessive hair growth may appear around the time of their first period, as hormonal changes begin. In contrast, others may not notice any issues until later in life, often after experiencing significant weight gain or difficulties in conceiving.

The following are the most common symptoms of PCOD in women:

• Menstrual irregularities (oligomenorrhea)
• Missed or nonexistent menstruation (amenorrhea)
• Menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding
• Overgrowth of facial and body hair, notably on the back, belly, and chest
• Acne on the face, upper back, and chest
• Gaining weight
• Hair loss

Deepsikha Jain, a nutritionist who often posts health-related and nutritional information on her Instagram page, recently posted a video about PCOD and how to reverse its symptoms.

Here are three ways to reverse PCOD symptoms, as per Deepsikha Jain.

Eat A Diet High In Fibre

According to the nutritionist, it is crucial to have a high-fibre diet every day because it helps control insulin resistance and stabilizes blood pressure. Additionally, this directly affects the body’s hormonal balance, which may aid in treating PCOD symptoms.

Maintain A Fitness Regimen

For PCOD patients, maintaining a regular exercise regimen is crucial. Cardiovascular exercises and strength training may be combined. The hormonal balance is affected, and PCOD symptoms are lessened when the body is thinner and has more muscles.

Foods That Reduce Inflammation

According to the nutritionist, incorporate items that reduce inflammation into your everyday diet. The daily diet should include foods like avocado, berries, nuts & seeds, legumes, and olive oil. These meals aid in reducing PCOD symptoms and controlling inflammation in the body.