The liver is one of the largest and most important organs in the body. It is the primary organ of detoxification and performs many other functions including metabolizing fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, balancing hormones, blood sugar stability, the formation of ketones, and aiding digestion.

Liver detoxification

Liver does filtering and detoxification of natural and environmental toxins and pathogenic organisms in the body. It also recognizes toxic substances and converts the toxic substances into benign substances that can be released and removed by the kidneys or the gallbladder.

Digestion and nutrient regulation

Liver acts as a digestive organ and plays a central role in all metabolic processes in the body, helping metabolize fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. It stores the vitamins and minerals and releases into the blood when needed and converts nutrients in our food into essential blood components. It also produces bile which is essential for absorbing fats in our diet. Bile is secreted by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. Bile aids in the elimination of fat-soluble toxins and excess substances such as hormones from our bodies.

Home remedies for healthy liver 

1. Garlic

Garlic helps your body produce and release enzymes that flushes out the toxins from your liver. The cleansing of the liver also includes the buildup of harmful fats and because the garlic has many natural compounds. Garlic is rich in allicin, vitamin c, vitamin B6, and selenium which all play a role in detoxification. Allicin is a sulfur compound that has antioxidant, antibiotic, and antifungal properties. Selenium is a naturally detoxifying mineral which helps alleviate the burden on the liver by increasing the action of antioxidants. Consume garlic cloves on an empty stomach to extract maximum benefit from this healthy food.

2. Avocados

Avocados are rich in healthy fats and help in the reducing the build-up of unhealthy fats on the liver surface. Thus, slowing down the damage of the liver. They are also low in glycemic index, so they help in removing toxins from the liver, which lead to organ damage. Plus the high fiber improves the metabolism, which further promotes healthy weight loss. This fat-rich food helps in the production of glutathione, which helps the liver detoxify the body.

3. Grapefruit

Grapefruits are juicy and delicious, and help in repairing the liver damage done due to a fatty liver. The high level of Vitamin C and 2 main antioxidants found in grapefruit naringenin and naringin which help in reduction of hepatic fibrosis and  help flush out all the toxins from the body, therefore, protecting the cells and repairing the damage in the liver. Just one cup of grapefruit meets the daily vitamin C intake. Just keep in mind that the fruit can also affect drug metabolism. If you’re on medications, talk to your doctor before digging into them

4. Berries

Blueberries and cranberries contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant phytonutrients called anthocyanins which give berries their distinctive colors. anthocyanins have demonstrated antioxidant, anticarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory biological activity. Berries can increase immune cell response and lower inflammation.

5. Eggs

Eggs contain sulfur compounds, methylation elements, and glutathione precursors. They have the full array of amino acids and are considered perfect proteins. They also contain carotenoid antioxidants such as vitamins A and E. They are also a rich source of vitamin D, omega 3 fatty acids and healthy saturated fat that makes for strong and vibrant cell membranes.

6. Green Tea

Green Tea is a famous herbal tea, especially for weight loss. Having green tea everyday can help your body absorb fat and thus reducing the fat storage in the liver. It’s rich in antioxidants, which helps the liver functions and protects it from harmful toxins. Green tea, licorice tea and dandelion root tea are effective natural remedies for liver problems. Brew the concoctions made from green tea or dandelion root powder or powdered licorice root and drink it a few times daily until liver functions improve. Include these as a part of your everyday diet.

7. Tofu

The soy protein found in Tofu helps in reducing the overall fat buildup in the body. In simple words, it simply carves out a path of the fat to be eliminated rather than storing them. This relieves the organ from the pressure and helps reduce the damage of the liver cells.

8. Coffee

Other than being just a pick me up in the mornings, coffee is also very helpful during fatty liver disease. Coffee’s properties help remove the enzymes that cause harm to the liver cells. Coffee is especially helpful for people that have the alcoholic fatty liver disease. Having two cups a day may be quite helpful, but it’s not a cure all.

9. Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in antioxidants as well as omega 3 fatty acids. As we mentioned earlier, omega 3 is very important in improving the liver function. Because of its healthy properties, it reduces the amount of fat that is deposited in the body and protects it from further damage as well.

10. Cruciferous vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables include Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and mustard greens. They contain phytonutrients, carotenoids, and flavonoids that help neutralize toxins. They also contain glucosinolates which are sulfur-containing compounds that are broken down to metabolites that trigger specific enzymatic reactions that help detoxify carcinogens and heavy metals from the blood. They also aid in digestion. Broccoli contains vitamin E which is an important antioxidant for the liver. It is important to combine cruciferous vegetables with healthy fats for better absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

11. Beets

These are root vegetables that are high in antioxidants and nutrients such as folate, pectin, betalains, and betaine. They contain significant amounts of fiber, manganese, potassium, vitamins A and vitamin C. They improve enzymatic activity and stimulate bile flow which breaks down toxic wastes to help excrete them from the body faster

12. Turmeric

We all know about miraculous benefits of this golden herb, turmeric helps in bile production and helps in detoxifying liver, also turmeric helps in reducing free radicles which lead to damage. Antiseptic and antioxidant properties of turmeric aid in good liver health. Consume turmeric with milk or honey.

13.Herbs

Herbs such as milk thistle, ginger, dandelion root, cilantro, garlic, and turmeric are powerful for detoxification. Most of the herbs that support the liver are bitter, as this activates the liver to create bile and clear out old waste.

14. Nuts

They are an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that protect against fat accumulation. Walnuts contain the amino acid arginine which is necessary to remove ammonia from the body. They also contain glutathione and omega 3 fatty acids. Hence they can improve lipid profile, hepatic steatosis, and inflammation.

15. Water

Water is the easiest available and most underrated one. Drinking enough water helps in removing the toxins from the body which in turn help liver directly.

16. Leafy Green Vegetables

The most nutrient-dense leafy greens are spinach, kale, chard, arugula, swiss chard, collards, and book Choy. These are excellent sources of potassium, manganese, and magnesium. They also contain chlorophyll which assists the liver by neutralizing heavy metals and toxic chemicals.

17. Apples

Pectin in apples helps the release of toxins from the digestive track thereby reducing the workload of the liver. Eat apple after dinner or drink the juice at least 2-3 times a week for good liver health. Use apples in salads and desserts to increase its consumption.

Habits for healthy liver 

 Eating foods good for the liver can help keep the organ healthy. Some food items that can help the liver are:

• Coffee
• Tofu
• Oatmeal
• Walnuts
• Avocado
• Milk and Low-Fat Dairy Products
• Sunflower Seeds
• Olive Oil
• Green Tea
• Grapefruit
• Blueberries
• Cranberries
• Grapes

Other than healthy food for liver, some LIFESTYLE CHOICES can help keep it healthy. These include:

• Being active
• Exercising regularly
• Keeping the body weight under check
• Getting proper vaccinations
• Avoiding weight loss medicine
• Protecting yourself against diseases like Hepatitis C or B
• Keeping your cholesterol, hypertension and blood sugar levels under control

To conclude

Your liver plays a very important role and it’s recommended that you do what you can to protect it for a healthy life. The foods listed above have demonstrated beneficial effects on the liver and incorporating these foods into your diet is a natural and healthy way to help keep your liver functioning at its best like– lower the risk of liver diseases and protect your liver against harmful toxins.

DR.NANDHINI V MOHAN

NVM DIET AND LIFESTYLE CLINIC

THANJAVUR – 613001

(AVAILABLE ONLINE / DIRECT CONSULTATION)

CONTACT-9597019032

FOLLOW US @

INSTA: drnandhinivmohan

FB ACCOUNT: Dr.Nandhini V Mohan-Nature for health

MAIL-nandhinimohanbnys@gmail.com

The post Diet for a healthy liver : Do’s and Don’ts appeared first on Health Vision.

Intestinal worm infections have a direct impact on a child’s nutritional health and are a significant health risk. “An intestinal worm infection (the three main ones are roundworm, hookworm and whipworm) is often not immediately evident and symptoms could include sudden weight loss, stomach pain, loose motions, weakness, fever, vomiting and over a period of time can lead to anemia and malabsorption (where the child’s body does not get sufficient nutrients as nutrients are being absorbed by the worms) which then impacts the growth and development of the child.

Worm infestation is common among children as they affect their growth and development. Similarly, they can affect adults as well. Even though in most cases, worm infestation is not a life-threatening infection it can lead to various clinical problems. Therefore, deworming is important both in kids and adults.” Open defecation and unhygienic handwashing practices lead to the spread of these parasitic worms into the soil or fruits and vegetables which can then find their way into other people who consume this. Adult cases of intestinal worms usually arise out of eating street foods or improperly washed vegetables or uncooked meat. Treatment is usually simple, but early identification, particularly in children is important to prevent growth deficiencies and infant mortality.

If deworming is ignored, these worms have the ability to form cysts in the liver and lungs leading to pneumonia and other neurological conditions. Although there is an increased amount of awareness worldwide about deworming among children, deworming among adults also requires more attention. Infections due to certain worms may lead to loss of iron from the blood resulting in anaemia. Pregnant women are at high risk due to worm infection as they may develop anaemia during pregnancy leading to multiple problems for the foetus. Some of the most important ways to improve hygiene are washing hands before eating and after using the toilet; using sanitised toilets; keeping the surroundings clean and ensuring nails hygiene.

Natural home remedies that will help you detoxify your system – worm infestation

1. Raw Papayas

Papayas are known to be extremely good for the stomach, as well as in preventing intestinal worms. The enzyme papain has anthelmintic properties that work against the parasite. You can use the raw flesh, seeds as well as the leaves.

How to use: Take 1 Tbsp of fresh raw papaya juice, add 3-4 Tbsp hot water,5ml of ginger and a drizzle of honey. Drink it early morning on an empty stomach. Grind papaya seeds into a fine powder and have it with a glass of warm water or milk, or sprinkle it in your glass of smoothie. You can boil the leaves in warm water, strain the mixture and have the filtrate along with water.

2. Lotus Stem

In many cultures, lotus is considered a sacred plant, and for good reason. It has many health benefiting properties, right from the root to the flower.”In Chinese tradition, fresh lotus stem is considered sweet and cooling, and is used to counteract summer dryness and horrid heat.” Lotus roots have dietary fibre, vitamin C, potassium, thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin B6, phosphorus, copper and manganese.

How to use: Extract 2 Tbsp juice from fresh lotus roots and have it along with a drizzle of honey and a tspn of turmeric on an empty stomach, early in the morning.(OR)Drink a glass of water by adding 2 tbspn of isabgol before bed.

3. Coconut

Another ingredient which I commonly recommend when one suffers from stomach ailments is coconut. Coconut water works wonders in clearing toxins from the system and cooling it down. Coconut oil contains caprylic acid which has anti-parasitic and anti-bacterial properties.

How to use: Take 1 Tbsp of grated coconut with 3 boiled garlic in the breakfast, followed by a glass of warm milk with 1 Tbsp castor oil after three hours. Or you can have 3-4 Tbsp extra virgin coconut oil daily.

4. Pomegranate

Another miracle ingredient that works wonders for the heart and overall health is pomegranate. The bark of pomegranate tree contains an alkaloid called punicine, which has anthelmintic properties that help in getting rid of intestinal worms.

How to use: “Boil the bark in water, remove from flame and then let it rest overnight. Strain the water and drink it on an empty stomach early in the morning. Drinking fresh pomegranate juice by adding a tspn of dry turkey berry powder can also help keep your system working efficiently.

5. Pineapple

Pineapple is a favourite tropical fruit and it comes with a host of health benefits. It is especially good for the stomach, aiding natural digestion and curing constipation. It contains a digestive enzyme called bromelain that is known to help in the breakdown of protein and combat intestinal worms.

How to use: Have fresh pineapple juice by adding a tspn of wheatgrass powder early morning on an empty stomach.

6. Neem Leaves

 Neem leaves are rich in antibacterial properties. The best way to keep your gut safe and healthy is to chew a few neem leaves on an empty stomach. They not only improve digestion but also destroy bad bacteria in the intestinal region.

7. Clove

Best, cloves are known for killing microscopic parasites and parasitic larvae and eggs. They contain eugenol, the most powerful killing agent that is highly effective in killing bacteria related to malaria, tuberculosis, and cholera.

8.Cucumber seeds

Cucumber seeds are known for removing tapeworms within the digestive tract. For effective results, one should always eat these seeds on an empty stomach or grind them to a fine powder and use in a smoothie.

How to use: Drink a glass of bermoda grass juice by adding a tbspn of cucumber seeds and drizzle a honey and drink early in the morning.

9. Pumpkin seeds

They contain curcurbitin, a compound that has anti-parasitic properties and has the capacity to paralyze worms in the intestine and the digestive tract.

How to use: Drink a glass of bittergourd juice by adding a tspn of pumpkin seeds powder and honey in the mid-morning helps to kill the parasites.

Dr. Nandhini V Mohan 

NVM DIET AND LIFESTYLE CLINIC

THANJAVUR – 613001

(AVAILABLE ONLINE / DIRECT CONSULTATION)

CONTACT-9597019032

FOLLOW US @

INSTA:drnandhinivmohan

FB ACCOUNT:Dr.Nandhini V Mohan-Nature for health

MAIL-nandhinimohanbnys@gmail.com

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A Woman’s menstrual cycle is usually around 23 to 32 days, with menstrual bleeding usually starting about two weeks after ovulation. However, it is not unusually that a period, or menstruation, sometimes starts earlier or gets delayed If the possibility of a pregnancy is overruled, a delayed period can still be annoying. Pregnancy aside, there are many possible reasons for a late period, including stress and illness.

 List of potentially emmenagogue foods      

Emmenagogue foods or emmenagogic foods are foods and herbs that have been reported to stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area & uterus and there are believed to stimulate menstruation.

1. Both flat leaf & curly parsley contain apiol and myristicin which are known to stimulate contractions of the uterus. Folk healers around the world have touched parsley tea as ‘REMEDY’ for delayed periods.

2. Celery stalks & leaves are said to work much in the same way as parsley to induce menstruation.

3. Cumin belongs to same apiaceae family of plants as parsley and cumin seeds are commonly used as a natural uterine stimulant in India.

             (Drink a glass of beetroot juice by adding 2 tbspn of cumin seed powder)

4. Angelica root or dong quai is yet another member of the apiaceae family that has been claimed to bring on a delayed period. This root herb is also recommended to people who suffered from menstrual cramps or menopausal problems.

5. Fenugreek seeds encourage menstruation. These aromatic seeds are also recommended to breastfeeding mothers who want to increase milk supply.

 (Boil a glass of water by adding 2 tbspn of fenugreek seeds, 10 basil leaves for 10 mins. Filter and drink twice a day by adding honey.)

6. According to some natural healers, extracts from rue, an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region and some parts of asia, have been used internally as an abortifacient, emmenagogue & a treatment of menstrual cramps.

7. Some people claim that eating papaya or drinking papaya juice can help induce menstruation. It has been suggested that the purported emmenagogic effect of papaya might be linked to the high amounts of carotene & Vit-C found in this healthy food. Also, papain an enzyme present in papaya may play a role.

 (Eat a bowl of ripened papaya by adding a tspn of apple cider vinegar, dry coconut scrapings, 2tbspn of black sesame seeds twice a day.)

8. Baked & ground root chicory has been used as a coffee substitute, particularly in poorer economic areas. It is also claimed to contain compounds that can help start the onset of menstrual flow.

9. Aloe vera juice is a digestive aid that is commonly used to calm an upset stomach.

 (Drink 200 ml of fresh aloe vera juice by adding mint leaves and Jaggery.)

10. In Asia, licorice root,which is known to contain phytoestrogens, has been used as an emmenagoge, galactogogne and aphrodisiac.

   (First in the morning, drink licorice tea with honey.)

11. Pomegranate is another food that is known to be rich in phytoestrogens and that has been used as a dietary emmenagogue & uterine stimulant.

 (Drink a glass of pomegranate juice by adding tulasi leaves and a tspn of black sesame seeds.)

12. The common kitchen herbs basil, rosemary, sage, marjoram and oregano have been used as emmenagogues.       

13. Cinnamon has been reported to be a uterine stimulant, when consumed in high doses.

              (Drink a glass of cinnamon tea by adding lemon and honey.)

14. Make an emmenagogic infusion from dried chamomile flowers. Chamomile tea has been claimed to encourage menstruation & cause miscarriages when drunk in high amounts.

15. Hyssop, a slightly bitter herb that is used to spice up soups, salads and meats has been described as an emmenagogic and abortifacent herb.

16. In herbal medicine, burdock root is often recommended as a blood purifier, but it is also thought to be a uterine stimulant.

DR.NANDHINI V MOHAN

NVM Diet and lifestyle clinic

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu state– 613001

(AVAILABLE ONLINE / DIRECT CONSULTATION)

Mob: 95970 19032

Email: nandhinimohanbnys@gmail.com

The post Naturopathic diet remedies for irregular periods appeared first on Health Vision.

Jackfruit, also known as jack tree, or sometimes simply jack, is related to breadfruit and originated in India. It is part of the mulberry or fig family, found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide including Southeast Asia, Africa, and Brazil.

The fruit contains fleshy bulbs and starchy seeds, both of which are used as food. This tree produces the highest yield and largest known edible fruit (average weight of 10 kg) than any other fruit tree species. It is the official state fruit of Kerala and India is one of the largest producer.

Nutritional Components:

The Jack is rich in phytonutrients such as phenols and flavonoids and has been studied for its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer effects. Pulp has many valuable micronutrients including: Potassium, Magnesium, Vitamin C, Vitamin B3, Vitamin A, Zinc. Raw fruit flesh is a good source of carbohydrates.

A 100 g portion has 94 calories, 23 g carbohydrate, and 1.5 g fiber. One 100 g portion of fruit flesh can provide up to 25% of the recommended daily amount of niacin (vitamin B3), a key vitamin in energy production, nerve function, and hormone production.

The fruit seed can be boiled or roasted and preserved in syrup like chestnuts, or ground into a meal and blended with wheat flour. The pulp and seed are often ground together into a meal commonly eaten in Sri Lanka.

1. Boosts the Immune System

Phenols, flavonoids, and lectins in the fruit are the most promising compounds to strengthen the immune system and suppress cancer cells. These phytochemicals are produced in the fruit fruit, peel, seeds, and wood. Jackfruit seed lectins increase white blood cells (mast cells) in the bone marrow suggesting a role for this extract in stimulating immune response. They activated an immune response against introduced pathogens by stimulating white blood cell production (mast cells and neutrophils) and increasing inflammatory cytokines (IL-17).

2. Has Antioxidant Effects

The antioxidant activity of jackfruit is linked to its phenolic and flavonoid content. These compounds are high in the jackfruit peel but also present in the fruit pulp, roots, twigs, and leaves. According to several studies, the high vitamin C, phenol, and flavonoid content of the jackfruit are correlated with its protective effects against free radicals involved in the development of diseases such as cancer.

3. May Reduce Inflammation

Jackfruit peel extracts inhibited the COX-1 inflammatory mediator in a way that was comparable to the standard anti-inflammatory drug, diclofenac. Jackfruit peel extracts and isolated flavonoids inhibited mediators (COX-1 and 2, nitric oxide, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) associated with inflammation and septic shock.

4.  May Improve Digestion

The high fiber content in jackfruit pulp may help prevent constipation and support healthy bowel movements. Jackfruit seed contains prebiotic fiber that may support the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system

5.  May Support Heart Health

Jackfruit leaf extracts decreased total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, and increased HDL cholesterol. This was likely due to the high content of antioxidant flavonoid in the extracts, specifically quercetin.

6. Is jackfruit good for cholesterol?  It Helps to reduces cholesterol 

The percentage of soluble fibre in jackfruit reaches its peak at raw jackfruit stage. Soluble fibre from fruits is the most superior quality and helps to remove cholesterol from your body.

7. It increases your longevity

Jackfruit, due to low acidity, is the only fruit that can be consumed as a meal replacing your regular carbohydrates such as wheat and rice in full or part.  So when we cook and consume raw jackfruit as a meal, the quantity consumed in one meal itself is more than the vegetable and fruit we consume in a whole week!

8. Enhances Vision

Being rich in vitamin A(Beta-Carotene), jackfruit provides a healthy nutrition for our eyes. It protects the eyes from bacterial and viral infection and also rids them of free radicals which might be harmful. It also saves the eyes from intense and harmful light waves like ultraviolet rays. It helps in improving the eyesight. It is especially effective in preventing degeneration of the retina and reduces the risk of cataract.

9.Prevents Ageing

The reason behind ageing is free radicals. These are produced in our body during high oxidative stress caused by pollution. Antioxidant rich in jackfruit destroys these free radicals which slows the ageing process down.

10. Strengthens Bones

Jackfruit is loaded with high amounts of calcium which strengthens the bones and potassium which reduces loss of calcium through kidneys. Symptoms of bone related disorders like arthritis; osteoporosis can be managed by consumption of jackfruit.

11. Improves Blood Quality

Jackfruit also contains a good amount of iron in it. A proper concentration of iron in our body helps prevents disorders like Anaemia. Iron also helps in aiding metabolism. vitamin C, magnesium and copper also help in improving the quality of the blood.

12.Prevents/Controls Asthma

Jackfruit helps control the imbalances in the body which result in controlling of the asthmatic attacks. Especially when the symptoms are triggered by the pollution, jackfruit helps control the symptoms by eliminating the free radicals being produced in the body due to the pollution which otherwise lead to asthmatic attacks.

13.Ensures a High Functioning Thyroid

Jackfruit being rich in copper which helps in thyroid metabolism especially in hormone production and absorption ensures a healthy and fit thyroid. It also helps people suffering from thyroid disorders.

14. Insomnia curer

Sleeping disorders can be cured by eating jackfruit, due to its richness with magnesium, acts as nerve system booster. Fatigue, stress and muscle weakness can also be treated by consuming jackfruit in daily diet for its rich content of vitamins such as thiamine and niacin (A portion of 100 g of jackfruit pulp provides 4 mg of niacin). It is also a perfect source of energy.

Halthy ways to add jackfruit:

1. Jackfruit Curry-You can easily add jackfruit as a main course vegetable curry: Steam the raw tender jack by adding a tspn of turmeric powder and leave for 4 whistles. Now take a pan add 5tbspn of coconut oil, 1tspn of mustard seeds, chopped onion, ginger garlic paste, green chilli paste, tomato, salt and add steamed vegetable to it. Stir for 10mins.Atlast add half tbspn of crushed fennel seed powder and half cup of coconut milk. Now the tasty COCONUTMILK JACK CURRY is ready to serve!

2. Healthiest Breakfast: A bowlful of jackfruit with a sprinkling of dry coconut scrapings and honey.

DR.NANDHINI V MOHAN

NVM DIET AND LIFESTYLE CLINIC

THANJAVUR – 613001

(AVAILABLE ONLINE / DIRECT CONSULTATION)

CONTACT-9597019032

FOLLOW US @

INSTA: drnandhinivmohan

FB ACCOUNT: Dr.Nandhini V Mohan-Nature for health

MAIL-nandhinimohanbnys@gmail.com

The post Jackfruit a super fruit with full of nutrition appeared first on Health Vision.

Our skin is our security system, our sensations detector and our gateway to the world around us. Touch is the very first sense we develop in the human embryo– less than eight weeks after being conceived, an embryo is barely 2.5 centimetres long and has neither eyes nor ears, but its skin is already highly developed.

“Hugging it out” is often touted as a good way to solve a problem. Of course, hugs can help in many situations, from showing appreciation to beating loneliness and stress at work.

The science behind why touch feels good!

The slow stroking involved in grooming stimulates a particular set of nerves – the afferent c-tactile neurons that are found only in hairy skin and are quite different to the usual nerves that convey information about touch, pain and pressure. These neurons respond only to light and slow stroking. They have a direct route into the brain, where they trigger the release of endorphins. Touch releases special hormones in our bodies and also inhibits stress hormones. Specifically, the right kind of touch can:

1. Increases oxytocin—this hormone is great for our heart and makes us feel connected to the world around us.
2. Drops cortisol—the stress hormone which makes us feel anxious and decreases our cognitive function.
3. Triggers dopamine—the pleasure hormone which makes us feel really, really good.

The Science behind hug

When you see someone you have not been around in a long time, when someone is celebrating exciting news, or when someone is having a hard time, it is normal to give them a hug. It is a gesture that sends a specific message depending on the occasion. It can show people just how much you love them, how sorry you feel, or how much you care about them.

Hugging is an important way for many to express how they are feeling to someone else. If you were to ask someone why they hug or why they like being hugged, they might tell you something along the lines of, “it feels right.” While hugging does tap into your emotions and even elicit an emotional response, there is more science to hugging than you might realize.

Hormones & hugging

There are hormones released when you hug someone that can provide significant health benefits. Skin-to-skin contact can send signals to nerves in the area of the brain that is responsible for managing blood pressure. When you receive a hug, it can lower your blood pressure, helping you feel relaxed.

Hugging also release dopamine which results in people “feeling good” or feeling a sense of reward. Dopamine is responsible for the “highs” people get after exercising, eating your favourite meal, or having sex. Even simply hugging someone in a non-sexual way can release dopamine in your brain and help you feel good.

Physical touch, including hugging, also releases a chemical called oxytocin or what some call “the love hormone.” When people connect physically with someone they love, this hormone is released and helps them feel good. It helps increase bonding, empathy, and positive thinking. Oxytocin can have positive impacts on physical health like fighting infections and boosting your immune system.

Emotions & hugging

In general, hugging can have significant impacts on emotional health as well. The hormones involved can aid in this process as well. People who hug tend to feel a reduction in stress due to feeling loved and more secure. It also is a way people feel connected. Whether it leads to other forms of physical intimacy or not, a simple hug can increase bonding between people.

Hugging can also decrease emotions associated with depression. It can help people fight a sense of fear, isolation, and loneliness. It also can provide a self-esteem boost which aids in fighting symptoms of depression as well.

Importance of hugging your child

The importance of hugging your child cannot be underestimated. Hugging provides many benefits to people, but is particularly important in child development. Benefits of hugging and the science behind hugs

1. Hugs help kids grow smarter
2. Hugs help kids grow

Studies show that hugging can instantly boost the level of oxytocin. When oxytocin is increased, several growth hormones, such as insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1) and nerve growth factor (NGF), are increased as well​10​. As a result, the nurturing touch of a hug enhances a child’s growth.

3. Hugs keep kids healthy
4. Hugs stop temper tantrums
5. Hugs build resilience
6. Hugs make happy kids
7. Hugs help child and parents bond

Final thoughts

Hugging has all kinds of benefits. But body autonomy is also important. Teaching kids how to kindly refuse a hug and handle uncomfortable situations is a good lesson for the child, too. Basically, a good hug is the fastest way for you to get oxytocin flowing in your body. Oxytocin, also known as the “love drug”, calms your nervous system and boosts positive emotions. Here’s how a good hug resulting in oxytocin flow affects you.

Dr.Nandhini V. Mohan & Dr Venkataramana Hegde
Veda wellness center
Nisarga Mane Sirsi
Uttarakannada District
Ph: 9597019032/ 9448729434
Email : nisargamane6@gmail.com

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