The Blood and Its Functions

Blood is a type of fluid, which is present in human body that provides all essential nutrients and oxygen to the cells of the body and transports carbon dioxide and waste materials away from the cells. An adult human being has approximately 5 liters of blood, which takes up about 7% to 8% of the body weight. The blood is pumped by the heart through arteries, capillaries, and veins to all parts of the body providing nutrition and homeostasis to the body. The cells, tissues, and all the organ systems get the nutrients from the blood.

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The blood consists of blood cells and plasma. The plasma is a fluid part of the blood and it represents 55% of the blood. The cells of the blood remain suspended in the plasma fluid medium. The plasma contains plasma proteins, hormones, glucose, mineral ions, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. The blood cells contained in the blood are red blood cells (RBCs) or erythrocytes, white blood cells (WBCs) or leukocytes, and the platelets. The most numerous cells in the blood are the RBCs. The blood is red in color due to the presence of hemoglobin in the RBCs. Hemoglobin is a transporter of oxygen and therefore it has a role in exchange of gasses with the help of iron present in it. White blood cells are present in the blood that helps to fight against infections and parasites. The platelets are those cells, which help in formation of a clot when there is an injury or cut to the body. Blood cells are produced by the bone marrow. The process by which blood is produced by the body is called hematopoiesis.​

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Functions of Blood

1. Respiratory Function: The hemoglobin in the RBCs takes oxygen from the lungs and as it circulates throughout the body, discharges the oxygen to the cells and tissues. The carbon dioxide that is formed in the body as a result of the metabolism of food is transported back by the blood from the cells and tissues to the lungs where it is discharged by the process of diffusion of gasses. The hemoglobin present in the RBCs of blood help the transportation of gases.

2. Nutritional Function: Nutrient substances such as glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids are transported from their storage sites to various parts of the body, where it is needed. The nutritional substances that are digested by the intestines and GI tracts are transported through the blood to the liver for processing and then to various parts of the body for the replacement of cells and tissues as well as for the growth.​

3. Excretory Function: Substances such as urea and lactic acid that accumulates in the tissues of muscles are transported by the blood to be filtered out. The kidneys are the organs that filter these waste products present in the blood. The waste materials that are formed as a result of the metabolism of the cells are transported by the blood to the kidneys where it is filtered to form urine.

4. Coagulation Function: The blood has a clotting function when an injury happens to the cells or tissues. It is a self repair mechanism to prevent any further blood loss that may occur when there is bleeding from an open wound. The clotting factors of the blood and platelets play a role in the clot formation.

5. Homeostatic Function: The various homeostatic functions of the body include regulation of the temperature, pH, concentration of vitamins, minerals, glucose, hormones, etc. The homeostatic functions are carried out to maintain the levels of these substances within the normal limits. The temperature of the body is kept constant around 37 +/- 4 degree centigrade. This allows the performance of all biological activities and function of the hormones to be kept normal. The blood transports the heat from areas of high metabolic activity to the outside by sweating etc. As a result of metabolism, there is production and accumulation of acids that tends to drift the pH to the lower side. The pH of the blood is kept around 7.35 to 7.45, which is necessary for the body to function properly. The homeostatic mechanism that acts through the respiratory and urinary system regulates the acid base balance and the pH is maintained.

​6. Defense Function: Blood has a defense function against bacteria, virus, pathogens, and other foreign bodies. The leukocytes or WBCs in the blood acts against these invading pathogenic organisms. The lymphocytes have an immune mechanism that provides immunity from further infection by the same pathogenic bacteria or viruses. The plasma has antibodies which acts against disease causing organisms.

6. Transport Function: Blood transports various drugs, hormones, glucose etc from where it is administered to the different parts of the body for their action.

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Use of LEDs for Lighting

Today LED lamps are increasingly being used for lighting purposes. It has much better qualities as a light source than the conventional incandescent bulbs or CFL lamps. LED lamps are made out of LEDs that are arranged into assemblies of high power light that can be focused in a single direction. The luminescence of a single LED is improved by arrangement of multiple LEDs that gives more light.  LED lamps have greater luminous efficacy and they produce more light per unit of electrical power. LED lights are able to emit 100 lumens of light per 1 watt of power and the efficacy continues to improve with the latest LED chips. The light conversion efficacy is more compared to the incandescent and fluorescent lamps. With the use of high efficiency reflector, high transmitive diffuser, and high power LEDs, there is considerable saving in energy and improving efficiency.

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The Working of LEDs

LED or a light-emitting diode is a semiconductor diode light source that emits light. It is commonly used as a lighting source in an indicator lamp. When a diode is switched to the 'on' position or forward biased, the electrons in the LED recombine with holes releasing energy in the form of photons or light. This effect displayed by the LED is called as an electroluminescence. Many different colors are also produced by the LEDs other than white light. The wavelength and the color emitted depends on the materials forming the p-n junction. Because of the smaller size of LEDs, integrated optical components are introduced inside, which are used to shape the light produced from it.

Applications

LED lamps can be replaced with ordinary incandescent or fluorescent lamps to provide good lighting for homes, automobiles, public facilities etc. LEDs are becoming more commonly used in aviation lighting, automotive lighting, displays, advertising, general lighting, and traffic signals.

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​Advantages

LEDs have very smaller energy consumption and it is environmentally friendly.

LED lamp provides long hours of service and so less replacement.

LEDs are more robust and smaller in size.

LED lamp has high energy efficiency and saves energy and reduce the electricity bills.

The light from the LED lamps are more sharper and are very direct.

LED lamps are very flexible and adaptable to suit the convenience of the place.

LED lamps provide wide choices in lighting and colors to and has a large number of effects, moods, and ambiances for the room.

LED lamps provide a uniform level of illumination and the lighting is more comfortable to work and less glare and strain to the eyes.

LED lamps has a great variety of designs and shapes for each room, place, and settings.

LEDs contain no contaminants and so lesser pollution to the environment.

LED lamps have over 40,000 burning hours and hence it is maintenance free.

​Installation of LED lamps are easy because of the compact size and adaptable designs.

​​Disadvantages

The cost of LED lamps are slightly higher than that of fluorescent or incandescent lamps and so the initial cost may be higher.

LED lamps use direct electric current and so it needs rectification, filtration, and regulation when connecting it from AC, for its smooth functioning.

Optimum voltage and current is needed for LEDs to function normally.

LED are degraded or damaged by high operating temperatures and so heat dissipation elements are needed such as heat sinks or cooling fins.

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Health Benefits of Almonds

Almond, Prunus dulcis is a seed of the deciduous tree that grows widely along the Mediterranean coast, Middle East, and South Asia. Almond is the edible seed of the fruit of almond tree. It grows 4 to 10 meters in height. The flowers are white and pink in color and 3 to 5 cm in diameter. The seed resides in the shell and the shell is removed for obtaining the seed. Almond seed measures 3.5 to 6 cm long. It is not typically a nut but a drupe. It is a tree with significant cultural importance because it is seen mostly in places where old civilizations existed in the Middle East, The Levant, and South Asia. It is mentioned in the Bible many times as it is a symbol of watchfulness, promise, and prosperity.

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Uses

Almonds are eaten raw and they are also used in many dishes. Almonds are available as whole, sliced, almond butter, almond milk, and almond oil. Sweet almond is used as a base material in many desserts and added to cakes, cookies, sweets etc. It is also processed to a milk form called as almond milk with the flavor, texture and color of almond.

There are two varieties of almond, the sweet and the bitter. The fruit of Prunus dulcis is mostly of sweet variety. There a few bitter almonds found on each tree. The bitter almond is broader and shorter than the sweet almond. It contains 50% of the almond oil and also contains the enzyme emulsin, in the presence of water acts on the soluble glucoside yielding glucose, cyanide, and essential oil of bitter almonds that is pure benzaldehyde. Bitter almond may yield 4-9 mg of hydrogen cyanide per almond. Larger doses of the bitter variety can be deadly and so cyanide must be removed before consumption. Almonds are usually soaked overnight in water before consuming it in the next morning.

Nutritional Value

A 100 gram of almond contains 20 g carbohydrates, 51 g of fat, and 11 g of protein. It contains vitamins such as vitamin E 26.22 mg, niacin 4 mg, riboflavin 0.8 mg, pantothenic acid 0.3 mg, thiamine 0.24 mg, vitamin B6 0.13 mg, folate 29 mcg etc. It also contains minerals such as calcium 248 mg, iron 4 mg, magnesium 275 mg, phosphorus 474 mg, potassium 728 mg, zinc 3 mg, etc.

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Health Benefits

1. Almonds are rich in vitamin E which constitutes 26 mg per 100 g. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that scavenges free radicals. It protects oxidative damage of cells and prevents age related illnesses. It also regulates enzymatic activity of protein kinase C that plays a role in smooth muscle growth.

2. Almonds contain good amount of carbohydrate 20 g per 100 g and also has high dietary fiber content that is good for absorption of food and bowel movement.

3. It has high quality protein, which is rich in essential amino acids required for muscle buildup.

4. Almonds has high monounsaturated fats, which is an essential fat that decreases LDL cholesterol levels and reduces the risk for cardiovascular disease. It also contains phytosterols which has cholesterol lowering action.

5. It protects against diabetes by decreasing the surge of blood sugar after meals. It decreases the glycemic index of meals when taken with meals.

6. Magnesium present in almonds decreases the resistance of the blood vessels and improves the flow of blood through the vessels thus reducing the incidence of heart disease. It also​ contains potassium in adequate amounts, which helps in nerve transmission and contraction of muscles, helpful in maintaining normal blood pressure and function of heart.

7. Almonds contain polyphenols on the skin in combination with flavonols such as flavan-3-ols, hydroxybenzoic acids and flavanones. These substances possess antioxidant properties and helps in protecting from age-related illnesses.

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Health Benefits of Coconut

Coconut is the fruit or seed of the coconut palm, Cocos nucifera, which is a member of Arecaceae family. It is found across most tropic and subtropical areas of the world. It is a tall palm that grows up to 30 meters tall, with pinnate leaves 4-6 meters long and pinnae 60-90 cm long. It has a smooth elongated trunk that extends from the ground upwards to the top where the leaves branch out. It is considered as a versatile plant as most parts of the coconut palm are used for various purposes. It is part of a daily diet for people in tropical and subtropical areas. Coconut provided a nutritional source of flesh, juice, milk, and oil and has been the staple diet in many generations of populations in places, especially the island communities in the Indian Ocean and the Pacific. Coconut palm has very significant religious and cultural importance in many societies across the world.

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Uses of Coconut Tree

The versatility of the coconut palm makes it a very popular tree with huge commercial interests. Nearly one third of world’s population depends on coconut for their food and economy. Every part of the coconut tree has been used for some purpose or the other. The coconut flesh develops from the endosperm of the coconut. The endosperm of the coconut fruit is initially suspended in the coconut water within the shell. Later the layers of endosperm deposit along the walls of the coconut that forms the edible coconut flesh. The edible coconut flesh is widely used for preparation of foods, which is used as a base for various dishes that are made with it. One can find cakes, biscuits, candies, etc. made from the scraped coconut flesh. Tender coconut is a delicacy when the flesh is tender and the water tastes sweet and delicious. Coconut water is refreshing, nutritious, and a natural drink. It can also be processed and fermented to produce alcohol, which is a popular drink for some, available as toddy. The oil and milk is commonly used in cooking and frying of foods. Coconut oil is also used in the manufacture of soaps and cosmetics. The husks, leaves, and wood of the coconut palm have also been used for various purposes. The leaves and husks are used to make a variety of products for thatching, furnishing, and decoration of houses.

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Coconut Fruit Contains

Raw coconut flesh contains vitamins such as thiamine 6%, riboflavin 2%, niacin 4%, pantothenic acid 6%, vitamin B6 4%, folate 7% etc. It also contains vitamin C about 4%. The minerals include iron 19%, phosphorus 16%, zinc 12%, magnesium 9%, potassium 8% etc. It also contains carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Health Benefits

1. Coconut is high in dietary fiber, which provides 61% dietary fiber. There is feeling of fullness when consuming it and contributes to healthy bowel movements. It contains non digestible carbohydrates or insoluble fiber, the body cannot digest the dietary fiber in the coconut and so it contains no calories and no effect on blood sugar.

2. Coconut is high is vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It gives all the essential nutrients that are required for the body. It contains vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, folate etc. and minerals such as iron, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, potassium, etc.

3. Coconut oil contains saturated medium chain fatty acids and it is different from saturated long chain fatty acids, which is the fat that comes from cheese, meats, and diary products etc. The long chain fatty acids increase cholesterol and increase the risk of heart disease. The body is able to digest medium chain saturated fatty acids faster than saturated fatty acids of long chain.

4. Coconut oil helps in providing more energy as it speeds up metabolism providing an immediate source of energy. Coconut oil increases body metabolism, burning out more energy.

5. Coconut oil can be used for weight loss. It contains medium chain fatty acids or medium chain triglycerides which are metabolized in the liver for energy rather than long chain fatty acids. Medium chain fatty acid increases metabolism and produces energy and does not contribute to weight gain. While long chain fatty acid is metabolized in the liver and get deposited there for later use.

6. Coconut oil contains enzymes for digestion and is very easily digested. It does not require any pancreatic enzymes for its digestion. So it exerts lesser burden on the digestive system for digestion of the food. It promotes the absorption of other nutrients when taking it with other foods. It improves digestive system and prevents problems related to digestion.

7. It is extensively used as a food and also used in traditional medicine in Asia and the Pacific for centuries and has no bad effects in causing heart disease, diabetes etc. There is no increase in triglycerides, cholesterol, or risk or heart disease established when consuming coconut.

8. Coconut has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It contains fatty acids such as lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid that strengthen the immune system. It is proved that lauric acid gets converted into monolaurin in the body, which claims to deal with bacteria and viruses. It has anti inflammatory effect and regulates inflammation and thus helpful in inflammatory conditions, autoimmune disorders, and infections.

9. Coconut oil promotes wound healing and repair.  When applied over bruised or infected areas over the skin, it protects the wound from external dust, bacteria, viruses, fungi, or any foreign bodies. It speeds up the wound healing by repair of damaged tissues.

10. Coconut water is a refreshing drink that beats the heat of the tropics. It is rich in sugars, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids etc. Coconut water is a clear, sweet, and sterile liquid and it is an excellent electrolyte replacement fluid. Those who do heavy work, sporting activities, running etc. coconut water is a great choice to replenish the electrolyte. It also does not cause dehydration.

11. Coconut oil is heat stable at very high temperatures. You can use coconut oil for cooking, baking, frying etc. Coconut oil has more benefits than other vegetable oils because it contains more of medium chain triglycerides.

12. Coconut oil is a natural conditioner and provides nutrition for the hair. It helps good hair growth and provides shiny complexion to the hair. It helps regeneration of dead hair follicles. It has all the essential nutrients needed for nourishing the hair. Many hair care products are available in the market that is made out of coconut oil.

13. Coconut oil is good massage oil for the skin. It gives good tone and complexion to the skin. It prevents skin from getting drying up or flaking. It prevents wrinkling and sagging of the skin and it has many anti ageing properties. It helps to treat and prevent any skin diseases like psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, etc. It forms a base for various skin products that are available in the market.

Presence of Supernumerary Teeth and its Causes

Supernumerary Tooth

A supernumerary tooth is a condition where more than one teeth appear in the mouth. It is also called as hyperdontia. The supernumerary teeth sometimes resemble to the group or adjacent tooth where it belongs. These teeth occur either singly, paired, erupted, impacted, or inverted. The supernumerary tooth causes crowding of teeth and malposition of the adjacent tooth that makes chewing difficult. The facial esthetics is also affected by the presence of a supernumerary tooth. The most commonly seen supernumerary tooth is the maxillary central incisor, which is the upper front teeth, it is also called the mesiodens. The other most commonly seen teeth are the maxillary or mandibular fourth molar, maxillary paramolars, lateral incisors, mandibular premolars etc. Supernumerary tooth occur both in permanent and deciduous teeth.

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Causes for Supernumerary tooth Eruption

The supernumerary teeth are developed from a third tooth bud arising from the lamina propria, the embyonic stage of the oral structures. The prevalence of supernumerary tooth has a hereditary tendency and it goes through families. It is also found in certain conditions such as Gardner's syndrome.

A supernumerary tooth may erupt in the mouth or get impacted because of the lack of space to come out in the limited jaw space. Supernumerary tooth may cause additional pressure in the jaw, which causes malalignment of the adjacent tooth in the jaw or even prevent their eruption. Erupted supernumerary tooth cause pressure on the jaw causing crowding and gives an incorrect bite of the teeth. An erupting or impacted supernumerary tooth can produce pressure to the roots of an already erupted tooth and cause resorption of their roots.

An impacted supernumerary tooth is visualized by a radiograph of the suspected area of the jaw. A supernumerary tooth can be extracted when it causes a malocclusion or impaction inside the jaw. Supernumerary tooth is beneficial when there is an already missing tooth in the area of the jaw. The malocclusion that occur due to the presence of a supernumerary tooth is corrected by orthodontic treatments.

Nutritional Benefits of Lemon

Lemon

Lemon is a yellowish round fruit of the lemon tree, which is a small evergreen tree found in South Asia, South East Asia, and China. Traditionally it is used in South and South East Asia for their antiseptic properties and also used as an antidote for poisons. It is used in India as an ingredient in various Ayurvedic and Siddha medicines. Nowadays it is cultivated around the world for their extensive use in food preparation and flavoring.

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A mixture of lemon juice and water with some added sugar is used to prepare lemonade. Lemon is a citrus fruit that has a sour taste. It is primarily used for its juice, although most of the lemon is used for cooking, pickling, baking, and flavoring. Lemon juice is used in making lemonade, soft drinks, cocktails, and marinades for fish and meat. It is also used as a preservative of foods and in pickling of foods. Lemon slices and grated lemon skin or zest is used to flavor foods and dishes. There are many lemon flavored food items and drinks available in the market.

Nutritional Content

Lemon juice is about 5% to 6% citric acid that gives it a sour taste with a pH of 2-3. It is rich in vitamin C about 64%. It also contains B complex vitamins such as Thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, folate etc. and minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus as well as carbohydrates, proteins, etc.

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Lemon juice is a healthy drink when taken along with some sugar or honey, it is an energy boosting drink that reduces fatigue. Daily consumption of lemon juice or lemonade has many health benefits.

Health benefits of Lemon

1. Lemon juice helps to solve problems of indigestion and constipation. Adding a few drops of lemon on your dish helps to aid digestion. A mixture of lemon juice, cold water, soda, common salt or sugar can also be taken after having a heavy meal to help digestion.

2. Massaging lemon juice on the gums can stop bleeding from the gums. It gives relief from diseases such as gingivitis, stomatitis, and other inflammation in the oral cavity. It also gives relief from bad odor of the mouth due to gum problems. These properties possibly due to the action of vitamin C content in the Lemon.

3. Lemon juice helps to cure problems related to the skin. Skin disorders such as acne, eczema, sun burn, insect bite etc. are relieved by applying it over the skin. It can be used to remove wrinkles and dark moles from the skin and make the skin smooth and shiny and brings glow to the skin. There are soaps that are friendly to the skin that contains lemon.

4. When lemon juice is applied to the scalp, it can cure problems like dandruff, hair fall, etc. Lemon juice applied to the hair gives a good shine to the hair.

5. Lemon helps in the production of WBCs and antibodies in blood, which destroys the invading microorganism that provide immunity to the body. It helps to strengthen the immune system and cleanses the stomach and liver. It purifies the blood and also enables the body to fight diseases.

6. Lemon is an antioxidant which neutralizes the free radicals that are produced by the body. Antioxidants help in preventing many diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, ageing related illness etc.

7. Lemon is anti-carcinogenic and it prevents the body to develop cancer cells in the body. It prevents the improper metabolism of cells and reduces the incidence of cancer in individuals prone for cancer. The antioxidant in Lemon deactivates the free radicals that are generated due to metabolism and prevents cancer predisposition.

8. Lemon water can help reduce rheumatic disease and arthritis. It reduces inflammation that occurs in the body by flushing out inflammatory content and toxins out of the body.

9. It prevents the disease caused by the deficiency of vitamin C in the body called as scurvy. Lemon juice provides an infusion of vitamin C or ascorbic acid thus preventing the deficiency signs of the disease. Vitamin C also helps the body to develop resistance against diseases and infectious agents. It scavenges harmful inflammatory free radicals in the body.

10. Lemons also contain several varieties of phytochemicals. Flavonoid glycosides such as hesperetin and naringenin are found in lemons and other citrus fruits. These acts as antioxidants that scavenge free radicals, anti-inflammatory, and immune modulator substances. They reduce the oxidative damage caused by the free radicals on the cell structure.

11. Lemon contains the B complex vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, folate etc. These vitamins help promote the functioning of brain properly and reduce fatigue and tiredness. It helps to prevent mental stress and depression.

12. It helps to promote weight loss helping to reduce the body weight faster. Lemon is mixed with water and honey for reducing the body weight.

13. Lemon owing to its high potassium content prevents from getting heart problems. It controls high blood pressure, dizziness, nausea and helps relax the body and mind.

14. Lemon juice helps to fight throat infections. Lemon helps in fighting throat problems such as throat infections, sore throat, and tonsillitis. It helps to ward off throat problems by its antibacterial action.

15. Drinking lemon juice helps partly in getting rid of kidney stone formation. Because the lemon juice contains excess potassium, it must not be taken profusely.

16. Lemon drink helps to break the fever symptoms by increasing perspiration. It can treat a person who is suffering from cold, flu, or fever.

Enamel Hypoplasia Causes Symptoms and Treatment

Enamel Hypoplasia

Enamel hypoplasia is defined as an incomplete or defective formation of the organic enamel matrix of the teeth in the embryonic stage of the tooth.

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There are 2 basic types of enamel hypoplasia and they are:

1. Hereditary type enamel hypoplasia. This is an ectodermal disturbance that occurred during the embryonic development of the enamel. The mesodermal components are normal. Both the deciduous and permanent teeth are involved and only the enamel is affected. The 3 types of hereditary type of enamel hypoplasia are a) Hypoplastic type, where there is defective formation of organic matrix. b) Hypocalcification type in which there is defective mineralization of the matrix. and c) Hypomaturation type where there is defective maturation of the matrix.

2. Environmental type enamel hypoplasia. This is caused by the environmental factors that causes damage to the enamel cells. Either deciduous or permanent teeth are involved and sometimes a single tooth is involved. Here both the enamel and the dentin are involved in varying degrees. The environmental factors which produce enamel hypoplasia are:

a. Nutritional deficiency, includes vitamins A, C, and D.

b. Exanthematous diseases (skin diseases) such as measles, chickenpox, scarlet fever etc.

c. Congenital syphilis.

d. Hypocalcemia.

e. During birth, such as birth injury, prematurity, Rh hemolytic disease etc.

f. Local infection or trauma.

g. Ingestion of chemicals such as fluoride etc.

h. Unknown causes.

Features Of Enamel Hypoplasia

There are many distinct features that are seen in cases of enamel hyperplasia. The signs of enamel hypoplasia are seen when they erupt in the mouth. The usual features of Enamel hypoplasia are:

1. Enamel that has not formed to a full thickness. The enamel is soft and thin that are chipped away more easily from the underlying dentin.

2. The crowns of the tooth may show discoloration such as white spots or cloudy opacities, that varies depending upon the type of the disorder ranging from white, yellowish white, to brown.

3. Hypoplasia due to congenital syphilis, the front teeth is characterized by a screw driver shaped, also known as Hutchinson's teeth and the posterior teeth is referred to as mulberry molars with a barrel shape.

4. The hypoplasia seen due to local infection or trauma during the tooth formation exhibits mild brownish discoloration of the enamel to severe pitting and irregularity of the tooth crown, it may involve single tooth referred to as Turner's Teeth.

5. When ingesting excessive fluoride containing drinking water during the time of tooth formation results in mottled enamel characterized by occasional white flecks or spotting of the enamel. It ranges between whitish flecks and white opaque areas to areas showing pitting and brownish staining on the enamel surface. These teeth have a tendency to wear or fracture.

Treatment for Enamel Hypoplasia

Sometimes enamel becomes stained with a brown color and so for cosmetic reasons, the affected tooth is bleached with an agent such as the hydrogen peroxide, the procedure is done periodically since it can recur. When an area is affected by caries, the enamel might crumble as the enamel is weaker in those areas. The decayed portion of the tooth may be filled with a tooth colored cement. If the cavity is advanced or extensive, it may need a bigger permanent restoration such as crowns, onlays etc.

Health Benefits of Water

Water is a chemical substance with the chemical formula of H2O. A molecule of water contains one oxygen and two hydrogen atoms connected by covalent bonds. It is seen on the surface of the earth in 3 different forms, which is water in the liquid form, ice in its solid state, and water vapor or steam in its gaseous state.

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Water Distribution

Water covers 70.9% on the surface of the Earth, which is the vital medium for all life forms on the earth. About 96.5% of the Earth’s water is found in oceans, 1.7% in groundwater, 1.7% in glaciers and ice caps, and a small fraction in other large water bodies and 0.001% is in the air as water vapor, clouds, and precipitation.

Qualities of Water

Water is a good solvent also referred to as universal solvent. The substances that dissolve in water are salts, sugars, acids, alkali, and gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, which are called hydrophilic substances. The substances such as fats and oils do not mix well with water and are known are hydrophobic substances. At standard temperature, water is in the liquid form, which is a dynamic equilibrium between solid ice and steam the gaseous state.  Water is tasteless, odorless, and colorless with a slightly bluish tint.

Presence of Water in Human Body

Every part of the human body is made up of cells and the major constituent of it is water. The water present inside the cells is called intracellular water and the water present outside the cells are called extracellular water. The extracellular water is present in the form of blood plasma, the water in the tissue spaces called interstitial water, and lymph. Human body is made up of between 55% to 78% water, and it needs constant replenishment. The total amount of water in a man of average weight of 70 kilograms is approximately 40 liters that averages about 60% of the total body weight. In a newborn infant the amount of water is as high as 75% of body weight and it progressively decreases from birth to old age. In obesity the percentage of water in the body decreases to as low as 45% body weight. The water in the body is regulated by hormones such as anti-diuretic hormone, aldosterone, and atrial natriuretic peptide. Electrolytes such as Na and K also takes part in water metabolism in the body. With an increase in the plasma concentration of the blood, the thirst center in the hypothalamus is stimulated which makes a person feel thirsty. Water is easily absorbed by the body and circulated into the cells and tissues.

 

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Loss of Water From the Human Body

Water is lost through urine, skin through sweating, lungs through respiration, and bowel movement. The average urine output for an adult is 1.5 liters per day. Another 1 liter of water is lost through breathing, sweating and bowel movement. In a normal healthy person, the water intake and water loss is almost equal. The excretion through the kidneys and skin changes according to the climatic conditions, so there is increased perspiration in dry climate and increased urination in cold weather. When water loss is not compensated with water intake, dehydration occurs. Dehydration starts when 2% of water to body weight is lost.

Signs and symptoms of Dehydration:

Causes excessive thirst and weakness.

Loss of body weight.

Dryness of skin and mucus membranes.

Tachycardia.

Disorientation and short term impairment of memory.

Delirium and trouble with analytical skills, difficulty focusing etc.

Water Requirement

For an adult, about eight 8-ounce glass of water is needed in a day. The average dietary recommendation for water is 2 to 3 liters of water.

Benefits of Water

Water and electrolytes are essential constituents of cellular metabolism. Water and electrolytes must be supplied to the body regularly to maintain cellular function.

It acts as a vehicle for the transport of chemicals and nutrients.

All vital organs function with the help of water as a medium.

Water regulates the temperature of the body through sweating and respiration, thereby maintaining a constant temperature.

Water regulates and promotes excretion of waste materials through the intestines, kidneys, lungs, skin etc.

Water forms a fluid base for digestion of food. It forms the solvent base for salivary glands and other digestive enzymes of the stomach and intestines.

It helps in moving the food through the intestinal tract and thus alleviates constipation. It helps to eliminate the waste products from the human body through, sweats, respiration, urination, defecation etc.

It acts as a lubricant fluid, which surrounds the joint capsules that allows the movement of joints.

Water helps to regulate metabolism and maintain the acid base balance.

Water is essential for flexibility of the muscles and to perform all the activities and mechanics done by the human body.

Water is essential for the proper functioning of the brain.

Water has a role in prevention of diseases. Drinking 8 glasses of water daily is found to decrease the risk of colon cancer by 45%, bladder cancer by 50%, and reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Water helps to reduce weight and promotes weight loss.

Water helps to reduce the cholesterol levels and improve the flow of blood through the vessels.

Water helps to prevent and treat high blood pressure and heart disease.

Water improves the health of the skin and appearance.

Water is essential for the health of the eyes and vision.

Water detoxifies the potent chemical substances present inside the body.

Since water is an important component of our physiology, the quality of water is as important as the quantity of water. Drinking water must be clean and free of any contaminants to ensure proper health and wellness.

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Health Benefits of Cinnamon

Cinnamon is the bark of the cinnamon tree from the genus Cinnamomum, which is most widely seen in South India, Sri Lanka, South East Asia, Southern China, Madagascar etc. It is a spice widely used in sweet and savory foods as a condiment and to give them a flavor and traditionally used as a medicine. It is also used as an insect repellant and for preserving and pickling of foods. Cinnamon is made by drying the bark of the cinnamon tree. It is available as sticks, quills which are rolls of the bark of tree. It can also be ground into a powder. It has a fragrant, sweet, and warm taste.

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The flavor of the cinnamon is due to the aromatic essential oil, 0.5% to 1% which is present in the cinnamon bark. The chemical composition of cinnamon bark includes compounds such as cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, cinnamyl alcohol, ethyl cinnamate, eugenol, beta-caryophyllene, linalool, methyl chavicol and other volatile substances.

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Beneficial Properties of Cinnamon

1. The extracts of cinnamon bark is effective against HIV-1.

2. Cinnamon compounds are effective against bacteria and funguses, which causes yeast infections, thrush, and stomach ulcers. It is a powerful antibiotic.

3. Eugenol extracted from the cinnamon leaves have antiviral properties, which is directed against HSV-1 and HSV-1 viruses.

4. Cinnamon has regulatory effects on blood sugar. It has beneficial results in people suffering from type 2 diabetes.

5. The compounds such as terpenoids contained in the cinnamon has powerful antiviral properties.

6. Cinnamonaldehyde prevents colorectal carcinogenesis. It is also found to reduce the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cells.

7. It prevents platelet clumbing in blood and exhibits anti-clotting effect on blood.

8. It inhibit the release of arachdonic acid from the cell membrane and posses antiinflammatory effect.

9. It gives significant relief for patient suffering from arthritis.

10.  Cinnamon contains polyphenols and antioxidants that create healthier arteries and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

11. Cinnamon is an excellent source of some vitamins and the essential mineral manganese and a source of dietary fiber, iron, and calcium. The fiber and calcium binds with the bile salts and reduces the risk for colon cancers.

12. It is a food preservative and when added to the food products, it inhibits the growth of bacteria and it is a natural food preservative.

13. It is used in relieving toothache. A mixture of cinnamon and honey is applied to the tooth till the pain is relieved.

14. It has been used for digestive ailments in traditional medicine to prevent indigestion, gas, bloating, stomach upset, and diarrhea.

Cinnamon over dose hazards.

1. Coumarin found in the cinnamon can damage the liver, it has a blood thinning effect so it is contraindicated in patients with liver disease.

2. Cinnamon oil is highly potent and so any overdose can depress the central nervous system.

3. Use of cinnamon when taking regular medicines must be avoided because it will have an additive effect on some drugs.

Cinnamon overdose must be avoided.

Dental Caries Causes Symptoms and Treatment

Dental caries is a microbial disease of the calcified tissues of the teeth, which is characterized by demineralization of the inorganic portion and destruction of the organic substances of the tooth. It causes destruction of the hard portion of the tooth such as the enamel and dentine causing pits and fissures to form on the surface of the tooth that destroys the tooth. This is the most prevalent chronic disease affecting the human race that affects both male and female, every age group, all races and socioeconomic groups. The prevalence of this disease is seen more in the recent years, because of the excessive consumption of carbohydrates and sugars in the diet. It affects both the primary or milk teeth of the young children and also the permanent tooth. The incidence of caries can occur starting from the time when the tooth first erupts into the mouth and all throughout the person's lives. It affects almost all tooth equally but most commonly the posterior tooth or the tooth that is placed in the inner aspect of the mouth.

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Causes of Dental Caries

Dental caries is caused by microorganisms and bacteria that is present on the tooth surface inside the mouth. The soft and organic deposits on the tooth is acted upon by bacteria liberating acids and breakdown products, which in turn dissolves the hard inorganic tooth substance. Caries can be caused by the combination of many different factors such as
1. Presence of microorganisms
Bacteria and other microorganisms in the mouth is the main reason behind the incidence of caries. Three basic groups of microorganisms are seen: 1) Streptococci. 2. Actinomyces and 3) Veillonellae. The major strains of streptococci included streptococcus mutans, streptococcus sanguis, streptococcus mitior, and streptococcus milleri, etc. Major actinomyces strains includes Actinomyces Viscosus, Actinomyces naeslundi, Actinomyces israelii, and Rothia dentocariosa. The veilonellae group are the anaerobic gram-negative organisms mainly veilonellae parvula and veilonellae alcalacens. Of these the streptococcus mutans is the chief and more common causative agent.

2. Presence of acids
These bacteria and microbes ingests the food materials causing enzymatic breakdown and leaving behind acid and other disintegrating and corrosive products on the tooth surface. The results of the enzymatic breakdown of the food material produce acids such as butyric acid, lactic acid, etc. These corrosive products will slowly dissolve away the tooth material.

3. Presence of carbohydrates
The acid production by bacteria is more seen when refined food materials such as carbohydrates and sugars are taken as food more than starches or proteins. The incidence of caries is seen more when eating sticky carbohydrates food materials like sweets and pastries because it gets attached to the tooth surface and is less cleared by the action of saliva or swallowing, more than liquid carbohydrates. Refined carbohydrates are more potent in producing caries rather than crude or complex carbohydrate that is mixed with other food materials. Meals high in fiber, protein, or salts reduce the oral retentiveness of carbohydrates.

4. Presence of dental plaque
Dental plaque is a thin film that is composed of food debris, mucin, epithelial cells, microorganisms etc that is deposited on the tooth surface. It forms a substrate for bacterial action and enhances the distruction of tooth material by its released products. The pH of the plaque in an excessive caries person ranges around 5.5, whereas a noncaries person is around 7.1.

Factors that Influence Caries Formation

There are many factors that influence the formation of dental caries. These include
A. Tooth
1. Composition
2. Morphological characteristics
3. Position

B. Saliva
1. Composition
a. Inorganic
b. Organic

2. pH
3. Quantity
4. Viscosity
5. Antibacterial factors

C. Diet
1. Physical factors
a. Quality of diet

2. Local factors
a. Carbohydrate content
b. Vitamin content
c. Fluorine content

Symptoms and Features of Dental Caries

The symptoms of dental caries varies according to the type of caries.

The general symptoms seen in dental caries are:
1. Pain and discomfort when chewing food
2. Sensitivity of tooth
3. Discoloration on the tooth surface
4. Presence of cavities on the tooth
5. Presence of swelling on the gums
6. Sinus draining tract
7. Inflammation on the face
8. Difficultly to chew or open the mouth
9. Mild fever
10. Jaw pain

The different features of dental caries are differentiated
1. According to the location of individual tooth
a. Pit or fissure caries
Pit or fissure develops on the biting surface of the tooth and outer and inner aspect of the tooth. It is brown or black in appearance. There is whitish and bluish discoloration of the enamel.
b. Smooth surface caries
It occurs in the proximal area of the tooth which is in between 2 adjacent tooth. There is faint white opacity of the enamel seen. Otherwise a well demarcated yellowish or brown pigmented area is seen.

2. According to the rapidity of the caries
a. Acute dental caries
It runs a rapid course that causes an early involvement of the pulp of the tooth by the carious process. There is undermining of the dentine and lateral spread of the caries process. There will be little time for repair process of the tooth to happen. The dentin of the tooth is light yellowish in color. There will be sharp pain in case of an acute dental caries. A form of acute caries is the nursing bottle caries which is a form of caries that affects the milk feeding child, that is attributed to the prolonged use of milk formulas, sugar, or honey pacifiers.

b. Chronic dental caries
This is a type of caries which tends to progress very slowly and involves the pulp tissues much later. The entrance of the lesion is wide and therefore less food retention and good salivary cleansing of the affected portion. There is only limited lateral spread of the caries. The caries is shallow and does not involve the pulp and so the pain is not a feature in chronic caries.

Prevention and Treatment of Dental Caries

The methods in prevention of dental caries are classified into 3 types.
1. Chemical measures
A number of chemical substances have been proposed for the prevention of caries. The substances are those which alter the tooth surface or tooth structure, substances which interfere with carbohydrate degradation, and substances which interfere with bacterial growth. Fluorine has been effectively used as an agent of preventing dental caries for many years, there are fluoridated water supplies, fluoridated tooth pastes, and mouth washes etc.
Chlorhexidine and alexidine have been shown to be effective against plaque deposition and growth. Chlorhexidine mouthwashes are used for prevention of dental caries. The other agents used for prevention of caries include silver nitrate, vitamin K, sarcoside, ammonium compounds, chlorophyll, etc.

2. Nutritional measures
The extreme caries attacks of tooth in some people can be prevented by controlling the diet that is taken on a regular basis. The chief nutritional measure advocated for the control of dental caries is the restriction of refined carbohydrate intake. The consumption of sugars containing food also needs to be reduced because these can cause increase in caries activity. Sticky foods such as taffies, cookies, which cling to firmly to the teeth should be avoided.

3. Mechanical measures
The control of dental caries by mechanical means includes procedures that are specifically directed towards removing the plaque and debris on the tooth surfaces. The different mechanical measures utilized to control dental caries are

1. Mechanical measures used by the individual:
a. Tooth brushing
The brushing of the tooth on a regular manner can definitely control the incidence of caries in normal people. Tooth brushing removes dental plaque and retains the tooth surface in a clean condition for most of the time. Tooth brushing twice a day is recommended for maintaining adequate hygiene of the tooth. It also needs to be stressed that proper oral hygiene measures such as washing and swishing of mouth with water after every meal has to be done. The brushing technique must involve all areas of the tooth, including the inner and outer aspect of each tooth, the proximal portion of tooth and also the biting surface of each tooth. The brush must reach all the teeth, on all surfaces of the anterior tooth and posterior tooth for effective cleaning. The adjacent surfaces of the tooth also needs to be cleansed for adequate caries control. A rolling motion in an upward and downward direction of each quadrant of the mouth is needed for proper cleaning. Over brushing or applying excessive pressure while brushing is contraindicated because it might abrade the enamel away from the tooth surface which might lead to tooth destruction.

b. Mouth rinsing
Mouth washes are used for caries control in people with bad oral hygiene. Some mouth washes help to loosen the food debris and plaque deposited on the surface of the tooth, while some others give a coating on the tooth surface to prevent further caries attack, while others are antibacterial mouth rinses which reduces the population of microorganisms in the mouth.

c. Dental flossing
Dental floss is a device which dislodge debris from the proximal areas and inaccessible areas of the tooth. It is a piece of soft thread which is inserted in between the spaces of adjacent tooth and moved in an upward and downward direction to remove the debris. This method is helpful in cleaning the proximal areas of the tooth and also the inaccessible posterior tooth.

d. Taking detergent foods
Detergent foods are fiber containing foods, which cleanses the tooth from the soft debris that is deposited on the tooth surface and also the pits and fissures on the biting surface of the tooth. The detergent foods include fresh fruits and vegetables eaten raw or partly cooked.

2. The mechanical measures used by the dental professional
a. Dental prophylaxis
These are procedures done by a registered dentist, a dental hygienist, or a dental nurse to clean the tooth surface from the soft and hard deposits on the tooth and to maintain the integrity of the tooth. They use tools which mechanically remove the debris and deposits, even those that are not ideally removed by a manual tooth brushing.

b. Fluoride application
This is a technique that is used to coat a layer of fluoride on the surface of the teeth, which makes the enamel very hard that prevent any subsequent carries. The fluoride combines with the enamel forming a hard coating that is resistant to the acid attack of the microorganisms.

c. Pit and fissure sealants
These are substances which are applied on the pits and fissures on the tooth surface and effectively closing it, thus preventing any carries attacking deep into the tooth body or destroying the vital pulp.

d. Dental Treatment
The treatment for caries is done by a registered dentist. This includes debridement of the caries exposed tooth through prophylactic means and filing or restoration of the tooth conservatively by various filling materials such as cements, amalgam, gold etc.

Health Benefits of Honey

Honey is a liquid food made by the honey bees from the nectar of flowers. Honey is mostly produced by the Apis genus of honey bees. It is actually a regurgitated product of the honey bees while they feed on the nectar of the flowers and deposit back honey to the honey comb. Honey is produced and stored by the bees as their primary source of food when the sources of food become scarce. The nectar of the flower mixes with the enzymes present in the bee saliva, which turns the nectar into honey. Honey bees store honey in a honey comb, which are small units made up of bees wax inside the beehive. The sweet taste of the honey is derived from the mono-saccharides, fructose, and glucose present in the honey. It is a natural sweetener. Microorganisms does not thrive in honey because of its low water activity. Honey has a distinct flavor which is based on the source of the nectar which produces the honey.

 

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Honey has been used since time immemorial and it has been used in various foods and beverages as a sweetener and a flavoring agent. It is also used in various medicinal purposes to treat ailments.

The major health benefits of honey can be grouped as.

Nutritional: It acts as an energy booster that provides energy which is needed for heavy physical and stressful activities.

Medicinal: It improves immunity of the body from various illnesses and saves from oxidation damage. It is used as a natural remedy to cure various illnesses and diseases.

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Sweetener: It is used as sweetening agent in many foods and liquids. It can be used as a substitute for sugar as a sweetener.

Energy source: It is used as an energy source. It gives more calories per tablespoon than sugar can provide. It is easily digested from the stomach because it is easily convertible into glucose. It improves athletic performance in a person by maintaining blood sugar levels, muscle recuperation, and glycogen restoration after a heavy work.

Vitamins and Minerals: Honey is a source of several vitamins and minerals in smaller quantities. It mainly contains vitamin C, calcium, iron, etc.

Improves immunity: Honey has many antibacterial and antifungal properties, which helps enhance the digestive system and fight diseases.

Antioxidant: It has antioxidant properties, effective in removing free radicals from our body. The body immunity is increased and helps fight against diseases such as cancer, colitis, etc.

Treating wound: Honey has antibacterial and anti fungal properties, which helps to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. It enhances wound healing and facilitates the healing process. It speeds up the healing process.

Skin care: Honey along with milk or cinnamon is effective in skin care and getting smooth soothing skin.

Reduce allergies: It can cure allergies when localized honey is given that help to minimize seasonal allergies.

 

Tooth Sensitivity Causes and Management

Tooth sensitivity is a discomforting sensation in one or more teeth that is triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks, or even breathing cold air. The pain can be irritation of the tooth to sharp, sudden, and severe shooting pain that is felt deep inside the tooth.

Tooth sensitivity occur when the underlying layer of the teeth the dentin becomes exposed as a result of several factors such as wearing of tooth, decay of teeth, exposed tooth roots, or receding gum tissue. The cavity inside the tooth is a vital organ which nourishes the tooth structures through numerous blood vessels and nerve endings. Dentin that envelope the pulp contain thousands of tiny tubules leading to it called dentinal tubules. There is plasma-like biological fluid present in the dentinal tubules, the changes can trigger mechanoreceptors present on nerves located at the pulpal aspect of the tooth thereby eliciting a pain response. The flow of the biological fluid inside the dentinal tubules allow the stimuli such as the hot, cold, or sweet food to reach the nerve endings in the tooth which results in pain. This hydrodynamic flow can be increased by cold, air pressure, drying, sugar, sour, or forces acting onto the tooth. Hot or cold food or drinks, and physical pressure are usual triggering factors for teeth sensitivity.

There are many factors which leads to the development of tooth sensitivity and these are

1. Teeth grinding: The grinding or clenching of the tooth may wear down the enamel and expose the underlying dentin.

2. Hard brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush in the long run can wear down the enamel and cause dentin to be exposed.

3. Tooth caries: The plaque build-up around the tooth and the resultant bacterial acid production on the root surfaces can corrode the enamel which results in exposure of dentin causing sensitivity.

4. Gum recession: The recession of the gums occurs when the gums move away from the surface of the tooth due to hard brushing or bad brushing techniques or conditions such as gum disease, periodontal disease etc. make the root surface exposed.

5. Gum disease: Inflamed and sore gum tissue caused by gingivitis or gum disease may cause sensitivity due to the loss of supporting ligaments, which exposes the root surface.

6. Cracked teeth: Chipped or broken tooth may cause irritation to the dentinal tubules while passage of fluid and bacteria from plaque into the pulp causes inflammation.

7. Age: Normal tooth wear causes abrading away of enamel and opening up dentinal surface exposing dentinal tubules resulting in sensitivity.

8. Acidic foods: Regular consumption of foods with high acid content such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles and tea can cause enamel erosion.

9. Tooth whitening products: Tooth whitening products and toothpaste with baking soda and peroxide contain products which bleaches away the enamel that contributes to teeth sensitivity.

10. Mouthwash use: Long-term use of some over-the-counter mouthwashes that contain acids may  worsen tooth sensitivity if you have exposed dentin.

11. Routine dental procedures: Sensitivity can occur following teeth cleaning, root planing, crown placement, and tooth restoration.

Steps to Prevent Sensitivity

1. Avoid teeth grinding. Avoid frequent teeth clenching. If you grind or clench your teeth at night, use a mouth guard.

2. Use a soft bristled toothbrush. A soft bristled brush will result in less toothbrush abrasion to the tooth surface and less irritation to the gums. Brush gently and carefully around the gum line so as not to injure and remove the gum tissue.

3. Promote good oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene measures such as washing mouth thoroughly after every meal, brushing the teeth daily, flossing of teeth, avoiding sweets and excess carbohydrates, etc will prevent earlier tooth caries and preventing tooth sensitivity. Follow proper brushing and flossing techniques to thoroughly clean all parts of your teeth and mouth.

4. Use desensitizing toothpaste. There are several brands of toothpaste available for sensitive teeth. Use the toothpaste that reduces the sensitivity the most. Use a fluoridated toothpaste, the fluoride in the tooth paste plugs the dentinal tubules reducing the sensitivity.

5. Reduce consumption of acidic foods. Frequent consumption of highly acid foods can gradually dissolve tooth enamel and lead to dentin exposure. They may also aggravate the sensitivity and start the pain reaction.

6. Use fluoridated dental products. Regular use of fluoridated toothpaste and mouth rinse can decrease tooth sensitivity.

8. Avoid over-the-counter mouth washes. Avoid using over-the-counter mouth washes and instead use warm saline gargle, which is a warm solution of salt water.

7. Early consultation: Make an early consultation with your dentist as early as possible when there is a fracture of tooth, caries exposed tooth, root exposed tooth, gingival recession etc.