Lifestyle
How Does Fat Leave the Body When We Lose Weight?
Losing weight is a common goal for many, but have you ever wondered where the fat goes when you shed those kgs? This article will unveil the secrets of fat-burning and discover effective weight-loss strategies. Join the journey to a healthier you, where every lost kg tells a tale of determination and transformation.
What is Body Fat?
Body fat, often unappreciated, serves a crucial role as a reservoir of stored energy, particularly during extended periods without food access. Body fat refers to the adipose tissue present in the human body, serving as a crucial energy reserve and playing various physiological roles.
Comprising triglycerides, body fat is stored in adipocytes, or fat cells, distributed throughout the body. While essential for insulation, organ protection, and hormone regulation, an excess of body fat can lead to health issues.
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The growth of fat cells in size and number is determined soon after birth and during adolescence. It remains relatively stable in adulthood unless disrupted by long-term excess calorie consumption. Weight loss can shrink fat cells but not their number.
Body fat is typically categorised into two types: essential fat and storage fat. Essential fat is vital for normal physiological functioning, found in organs, nerves, and cell membranes. Storage fat, on the other hand, accumulates beneath the skin (subcutaneous fat) and around organs (visceral fat), providing a reserve for energy needs.
Measuring body fat percentage is crucial for assessing overall health and fitness. Various methods, such as skinfold calipers, bioelectrical impedance, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), help estimate body fat content. Healthy body fat percentages differ based on age, sex, and fitness levels, with excessive body fat linked to increased risk of conditions like obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.
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Maintaining a balance between essential and storage fat is essential for overall well-being. It apexes the importance of a healthy lifestyle encompassing proper nutrition, regular exercise, and holistic health management.
How to Avoid Scams During Travel Bookings
There is a saying that if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. As electronic and social media have made advertisements easier than ever, there is a growing number of scams, especially leveraging the tourism industry. Here’s what one should keep in mind to avoid scams while booking for travel at home or abroad.
Ways to Avoid Scams while Doing Travel Bookings
Check for Website Authenticity
Website authenticity is the first and foremost way to avoid travel booking scams.
What’s the typical process people follow for booking? They go to Google and type in their keywords like ‘7 days vacation package to (desired destination)’.
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Many fake websites leverage these keywords and advertise on search engines. As a result, they tend to show up at the top of the search results. Fortunately, one can easily check where there is an “AD” mark next to the website link.
There are several ways to check an authentic site. An efficient approach would be to check for the Domain Authority (DA) using free online tools. It is better to avoid sites with lower DA scores.
Avoid Too Good to Be True Offers
Data harvesting and tracking is another way scammers target tourists and travelers. The moment you put in a keyword in a search bar regarding a booking, you will notice enticing offers showing up regarding that destination. Most of these ads often sound too good to be true. And in almost all the cases, they are.
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As a precautionary measure, always double-check the offer on the website. Check for website authority to ensure that the displayed offers are indeed legit.
Double Check on the Payment
There are two warning signs of scams when it comes to payment – lack of encryption and guiding users to a different landing page. A legit travel booking site will have the necessary SSL encryption which shows up as a keypad lock right after the https in the address bar. Scam websites don’t have those.
Some scammers have legit-looking websites for information and pricing but would take the users to a different domain for payment. Users should be wary of those sites as well.
Read more: 10 Overseas Places Bangladeshis Can Visit Under BDT 10,000
Ananya Panday’s dazzling international ramp debut in Paris
In a stunning display of fashion and charisma, Bollywood actress Ananya Panday recently marked her international runway debut at the prestigious Haute-Couture Spring/Summer 2024 Fashion Week in Paris. Ananya walked the ramp for renowned designer Rahul Mishra, as reported by NDTV.
Gracing the runway in a captivating black and gold ensemble, Ananya’s presence was a sight to behold. She added an artistic touch to her appearance by carrying a giant sieve, a bold and unique accessory that complemented the haute-couture vibe of her outfit. Expressing her exhilaration, Ananya shared on her Instagram story, “Walking for Rahul Mishra at Paris Couture Week,” capturing this milestone moment in her career.
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Designer Rahul Mishra also took to social media to welcome Ananya into the world of high fashion. He posted, “Hello baby girl. Welcome to the world of couture. Ananya Panday for Rahul Mishra at Paris Couture Week,” celebrating her successful debut.
Away from the runway, Ananya continues to make waves in the Bollywood film industry. She recently starred in “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan,” a film directed by Arjun Varain Singh, featuring Siddhant Chaturvedi, Adarsh Gourav, and Kalki Koechlin. Her fans eagerly await her upcoming ventures, including “Control” and “The Untold Story of C Sankaran Nair.” Additionally, she is set to appear in the upcoming show “Call Me Bae.”
Since her acting debut in 2019 with “Student Of The Year 2,” Ananya has carved a niche for herself in Bollywood. Her filmography includes notable titles such as “Dream Girl 2” with Ayushmann Khurrana, “Pati Patni Aur Who” alongside Kartik Aaryan and Bhumi Pednekar, “Khaali Peeli” with Ishaan Khatter, and “Gehraiyaan” featuring Deepika Padukone and Siddhant Chaturvedi. Ananya Panday’s ascent illustrates her versatile talents and her growing influence.
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Micro-acts of Joy: Secret to Being Happier and Healthier?
Amidst the chaos that is contemporary living, uncovering pockets of joy becomes a potent catalyst for elevating both happiness and well-being. Micro-acts of joy, small yet impactful gestures, have the potential to transform our daily experiences. This article explores the fascinating connection between these micro-acts and the enhancement of overall well-being.
How Happiness Affects Health
Happiness is not just a fleeting emotion; it serves as a cornerstone for overall well-being, profoundly impacting both mental and physical health. The link between happiness and health is a subject of extensive research, revealing a symbiotic relationship that goes beyond mere positivity.
From a psychological standpoint, a happy and content mind contributes to reduced stress levels. The release of endorphins, often termed 'feel-good' hormones, acts as a natural stress reliever, promoting a sense of calm and tranquility. This emotional equilibrium, in turn, fosters resilience in facing life's challenges.
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On a physiological level, the benefits are equally significant. Studies show that individuals with a positive outlook tend to have lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues. The immune system also receives a boost, making the body more resilient to illnesses.
Furthermore, the connection between happiness and longevity is a compelling aspect. Studies indicate that those with an optimistic outlook on life are likely to enjoy a longer lifespan. It emphasizes the vital role of emotional well-being in determining one's overall health and lifespan.
In essence, happiness becomes a powerful elixir for a healthy life, influencing the mind and body in intricate ways. Cultivating joy not only adds vibrancy to our existence but also acts as a fundamental building block for a resilient and thriving state of health.
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How to Flex Your ‘Forgiveness Muscle’
Forgiveness is often overlooked in the grand scheme of self-improvement, yet it is key to unlocking a sense of liberation and inner peace. In the hustle and bustle of a new year, reflecting on the art of forgiveness — both towards ourselves and others — is essential.
Forgiveness is not just a gesture; it is a powerful tool for personal growth and emotional well-being. As we embark on a new year, let's delve into the profound journey of flexing our “forgiveness muscles.”
Benefits of Forgiveness
Inner Peace and Tranquillity
Forgiving oneself and others allows for the release of inner turmoil, leading to a profound sense of peace and tranquillity. The burden of resentment lifts, creating space for emotional well-being.
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Improved Mental Health
Studies suggest a strong link between forgiveness and mental health. Letting go of grudges and resentments can alleviate stress, reduce anxiety, and contribute to overall psychological health.
Enhanced Relationships
Forgiveness plays a pivotal role in nurturing and sustaining healthy relationships. Whether it is forgiving a friend, partner, or family member, it fosters understanding, empathy, and a stronger bond.
Emotional Liberation
Holding onto grudges can be emotionally exhausting. Forgiveness liberates us from the shackles of negative emotions, allowing us to experience joy, happiness, and a renewed sense of self.
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Increased Empathy
Choosing to forgive cultivates empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It promotes a compassionate outlook, fostering a more harmonious social environment.
Personal Growth
Forgiveness is a catalyst for personal growth. It encourages self-reflection, self-awareness, and the opportunity to learn from challenging experiences, ultimately leading to greater resilience.
Health Benefits
The benefits of forgiveness extend beyond mental well-being. Studies suggest that forgiving individuals may experience lower blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and overall better physical health.
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Stress Reduction
Letting go of grudges and embracing forgiveness can significantly reduce stress levels. The ability to navigate conflicts with a forgiving mindset contributes to a more relaxed and balanced life.
Positive Influence on Others
Demonstrating forgiveness serves as a positive example for those around us. It creates a ripple effect, encouraging others to adopt a forgiving attitude and contribute to a more compassionate society.
‘Rising Echoes’ begins at Batighar showcasing effects of climate change
Portraying pitfalls of development and miseries caused by climate change effects, a 10-day exhibition titled 'Rising Echoes' began on Saturday at 'Batighar – Smritite Sharaney Aly Zaker', Asiatic Centre rooftop in the capital.
The exhibition features a total of 31 artworks and photographs.
In this exhibition, photographer Mrittika Gain showcased adversities faced by people of Kalabogi village in Dakop, Khulna, due to climate-induced river erosion. through her photographic lens.
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Simultaneously, the other participating artist Hlubaishu Chowdhuri has highlighted the disfigurement of natural landscape due to construction of Kaptai Dam in Rangamati, through her paintings.
The 10-day exhibition titled ‘Rising Echoes’ has been organised by Mongol Deep Foundation and curated by Shamsul Alam Helal, a Curator, Educator and Visual Artist. He has curated exhibitions in Chobi Mela and Dhaka Art Summit.
Popular Motorcycle Helmets Under 15000 Taka in Bangladesh
As a convenient personal transport, the popularity of motorbikes is on the rise. However, bike riding can pose a threat if not wearing safety gear, especially the helmet. Motorcycle helmets come in all types of shapes and sizes. From half helmets to modular, off-road, dual-face to full-face helmets, the choice seems to be endless. But in addition to the types, there’s also the aspect of QC and compliance to consider. While it might be difficult to fit all the criteria in a budget helmet, here’s a list of the ones to consider under 15000 BDT.
What to Consider Before Buying a Motorbike Helmet
In Bangladesh, The Road Safety Act of 2018 mentions the requirement of a “proper” bike helmet for the rider and the pillion. But there’s no exact specification to define what’s “proper.” As a result, helmets as cheap as 600 BDT are easily available in the market. But none of those qualify for the UN or the ECE standards.
Before getting into the list, here’s what one should consider before buying a motorcycle helmet.
Safety Standards
As mentioned above, there aren’t any strict measures to enforce standards on motorcycle helmets. But considering personal safety, look for helmets that meet either ECE, UN, or BSTI standards or clearance certification.
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Fit and Comfort
There’s a common misconception that helmets need to be tight fit. On the contrary, the best approach is to go for a snug fit that sits comfortably level with the head. Even the pin-lock should be adjusted in a way that it doesn’t obstruct the natural jaw movement.
Helmet Type
The most common types of helmets in Bangladesh are full-face and open-face helmets. There are also modular ones but those are better suited for cruiser or off-road bikes. For normal city commutes, a full-face or open-face helmet would be ideal.
Weight
Always opt for a lightweight helmet so as not to stress out your head or shoulder. As a rule of thumb, look for a combination of lightweight build and enough cushioning for a snug and comfortable fit. Fiberglass or polycarbonate helmets can be a great choice in this regard. There are also carbon fiber ones, but those won’t come under 15000 unfortunately.
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Noise Level
Make sure the helmet has ample aerodynamic and wind noise reduction for a comfortable ride. It depends on the fit and how much noise can be blocked. Too tight a fit might block essential sounds as well which might become an accessory for accidents. So try and strike a balance in between.
Why You Should Try Walking Backwards
Walking, a seemingly straightforward activity, has taken a new twist — a backward or reverse step. The concept of walking backwards, often overlooked, comes with many benefits that can significantly enhance your physical and mental well-being. Let's delve into the world of backward strides and explore why incorporating this unique practice into your routine could be a game-changer.
Health Benefits of Reverse Walking
Physical Benefits
Improves Balance and Gait
Walking backwards challenges your brain and body to coordinate in new ways, which can improve your overall balance and stability. This practice can be especially beneficial for senior citizens or people who are recuperating from injuries.
Reduces Knee Pain and Strengthens Muscles
By engaging different muscle groups than forward walking, walking backwards can take stress off your knee joints and strengthen your hamstrings, calves, and glutes. This can be helpful for people with knee pain, arthritis, or weak lower body muscles.
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Increases Flexibility and Range of Motion
The repeated leg extension involved in backward walking can improve your flexibility, particularly in your hamstrings and ankles. This can help with overall range of motion and reduce stiffness.
Burns more Calories
Studies suggest that walking backwards may burn slightly more calories than walking forward, although the difference is small.
"Khadi Fest 2024" begins in Dhaka showcasing its immense potential in shaping future of textile industry
A two-day Khadi Festival, hosted by the Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh (FDCB), began on Friday featuring an exhibition and fashion show.
The theme of the event was 'Khadi: The Future Fabric Show.'
President of BGMEA Faruque Hassan said, “I am delighted to witness the Khadi Fest 2024, an event that not only celebrates our rich cultural heritage but also underscores the potential of Khadi as a sustainable and eco-friendly fabric in the fashion industry."
He said the collaboration between BGMEA and the Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh for this festival signifies their commitment to supporting initiatives that promote ethical and environmentally conscious practices.
"This festival serves as a testament to the creativity of our designers and the craftsmanship of our artisans, showcasing the immense potential Khadi holds in shaping the future of the textile industry.”
Read: 22nd Dhaka International Film Festival (DIFF) begins Saturday“We are delighted to be part of a movement that embraces nature, beauty and local culture. Khadi has been part of Bengal for centuries," said Milon Chisim, Owner of the Tribal Crafts.
"It is sustainable and it speaks of people. Hoping festivals as such will bring awareness of our local, indigenous products and will promote artisans.”
Maya, BGMEA, HSBC, Berger, Rupayan Group, and Buy Here Now are supporting the event.
The festival showcased the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh, highlighting Khadi as the fabric of the future and a symbol of sustainable fashion.
The two-day event featured a captivating runway show, where Bangladeshi designers unveiled future fashion trends in fabric and innovative products.
Read: Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh unveils "Khadi- the future fabric show" at Khadi Fest 2024
Diabetics have ways to fast safely: ACEDB
Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and Diabetologists of Bangladesh (ACEDB) on Friday diabetes patient can fast easily by following some rules as modern medical methods have made fasting easy and safe.
ACEDB informed this info in an event organized at National Press Club. The event was organized on the occasion of Dia-Ramadan Awareness Month program announced by ACEDB for the month of Rajab.
In addition to the month-long program of the organization, some programs were highlighted to safely observe the fasting of diabetic patients.
According to ACEDB, fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam. So, fasting is a must for every adult Muslim. Research has shown that about 80 percent of diabetic patients in Bangladesh maintain fast.
According to a statistic, around 50 million diabetics patients around the world fast. But among diabetic patients who maintain fast without doctor's advice, they face some complications. In particular, suffer from low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), diabetic ketoacidosis, and dehydration.
Former Secretary of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Dr. Anwar Hossain Howlader said in the speech as chief guest, several recent studies shown, those who fast with the preparation of Ramadan have less complications including hypoglycemia than before Ramadan. Various studies have proven that fasting is beneficial to health.
"Diabetic patients are advised to consult their doctor at least 2-3 months before Ramadan to prepare," he said.
ACEDB President Professor Farid Uddinsaid, Muslims want to fast this one month for self-purification. Diabetics patients are no exception. Since fasting requires long periods of fasting and diabetics patients who take insulin or take oral medication, they need to take special precautions during Ramadan.
He also said it is necessary to plan and take advance preparation. You can combine diet, exercise and medicine. You can practice Nafal fasting before Ramadan.
General Secretary of ACEDB Prof. Dr. Indrajit Prasad said, some issues can be solved own by thinking a little consciously. For example, talk to the doctor and bring 3 times the medicine in one or two times. Can take day medicine at night before Ramadan.Experts of the organization said that diabetic patients can fast.
"Diabetes is not a barrier for those who can afford it. Prior preparation is required. They advised, diabetic patients should consult their doctor at least 2-3 months before Ramadan and make preparations," he also advised.
According to the ACEDB, several recent studies have shown that those who maintain fast with the preparation of Ramadan have a much lower incidence of hypoglycemia and other complications than before Ramadan. Various studies have proven that fasting is beneficial for health.
In the event, they informed that the Endocrine Department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University has been taking various programs to make people aware at all levels about the safe fasting of diabetic patients. Before Ramadan, the endocrinologists of this hospital have been conducting various programs across the country.
Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and Diabetologists of Bangladesh (ACEDB), the leading organization of endocrinologists in Bangladesh, has declared the month of Rajab as 'Diabetes and Ramadan Awareness Month' in October 2023 to highlight the important issue more seriously to the countrymen.
In continuation of that, on the first Friday of the month of Rajab, on January 27, 2023, its auspicious opening was announced at the Dhaka Club, which is the first time in the world.
Programs for the month of Rajab include – training of doctors, training of diabetic patients, discussions with mosque khatibs and raising public awareness through various media.
ACI Pharmaceuticals Limited is cooperating in this regard.