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Tag: <span>mental health</span>

What Is The Loneliness Epidemic? How To Combat Growing…

2 October 2024
by admin

According to the Global State of Connections Report, 1.25 billion people felt they were ‘lonely’ or ‘very lonely’ in 2023.

The World Health Organization estimates that loneliness affects around 10 percent of young people and 25 percent of the elderly population.

In an era where technological connectivity is at its peak, millions of individuals across age groups grapple with feelings of loneliness. Factors such as the loss of loved ones, changing family structures, dwindling social circles in old age and evolving living patterns during adulthood contribute to an increasing number of people experiencing social isolation. It can be challenging to identify whether a person sitting quietly in a corner, reluctant to engage in conversation, or someone who cracks jokes and brightens a group, is mentally isolated. According to the Global State of Connections Report, 1.25 billion people felt they were ‘lonely’ or ‘very lonely’ in 2023.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that loneliness affects around 10 percent of young people and 25 percent of the elderly population. The WHO has declared it a pressing, albeit unrecognised, global health threat. The health consequences of loneliness have been likened to smoking 15 cigarettes a day or experiencing hunger or thirst — signals sent by the body when something vital for survival is lacking.

If you or someone you know is experiencing loneliness, here are some strategies to combat this feeling:

· Talk to people: Bottling up stress can lead to negative feelings that may do more harm than good. It is essential to talk to a colleague, friend, family member or partner with whom you can connect and be vulnerable.

· Maintain regular contact: Reach out to family and friends regularly. Being socially connected can improve stress responses and minimise the negative health effects of stress.

· Listen to others: Offering a listening ear and making others feel heard can foster mutual feelings of connection. Instead of offering solutions or sharing similar experiences, focus on understanding the feelings of others. Volunteering is an excellent way to help others, forge deeper connections, and feel fulfilled.

· Limit social media: Surprisingly, the technology designed to connect us can sometimes contribute to feelings of loneliness. Unplugging from social media and engaging in face-to-face interactions can help you feel closer to your loved ones.

· Reframe your thoughts: Do not blame yourself for feeling lonely or equate loneliness with being broken. Instead, try to view it positively; it can be a signpost revealing more about yourself and what you need to live your best life.

· Seek professional support: If these strategies do not alleviate your feelings of loneliness, consider seeking extra support or contacting a mental health professional who can help you feel better.

Swati Chaturvedi

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wis…Read More

Science & Environment

5 benefits of avoiding onion and garlic during Navratri…

1 October 2024
by admin

With Navratri just around the corner, people are getting ready to celebrate for the next nine days. Following certain food guidelines and fasting are part of this celebration. One of these prohibitions is not eating specific foods, especially onions and garlic, which Ayurveda says are tamasic in nature. Here are some health benefits of refraining from these ingredients during this sacred period.

A better sense of digestion

Onions and garlic are nutritious ingredients, but it is also a fact that they can be hard to digest for some individuals, especially those with sensitive digestive systems. They include fructans which are a kind of carbohydrate that some individuals find uncomfortable and bloated. Avoiding these certain meals during Navratri can promote better digestive health. This is especially helpful for people who fast since it gives the digestive system time to relax and heal.
According to a study that was published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, cutting back on some difficult-to-digest foods will help lessen gastrointestinal distress feelings, which will facilitate easier digestion and less pain during fasting.

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A better-balanced body temperature

According to Ayurvedic principles, onions and garlic are considered heating foods, which can increase the Pitta dosha—a body energy associated with heat and metabolism. During Navratri, keeping a balanced body temperature is essential especially when fasting. Eating meals that are cooler and lighter helps to regulate the body’s internal heat, improving overall health. Avoiding these strong components may help people feel less prone to heat-related symptoms like skin irritations and inflammatory diseases.

Its effects on mental health

As per Ayurveda, Rajsik foods like onions and garlic are believed to impact one’s mental state by invoking restlessness and distraction. Spiritual practices during Navratri emphasize the need for focus and clarity of mind. Avoiding these foods, practitioners will find it easier to maintain a calm and stable mindset.
Research indicates that dietary choices significantly affect cognitive functions. A study “Nutrition and cognitive health: A life course approach” found that a clean, balanced diet can improve cognitive clarity and focus.

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Helps to maintain ritual purity

In many Hindu traditions, purity is very important during religious festivals, including Navratri. Garlic and onions are seen as impure and are quite often linked to unpleasant smells. Devotees can maintain the spiritual purity required for worship and other ceremonies by avoiding these meals. This idea of purity includes both mental and emotional states in addition to internal cleanliness.

It helps with the betterment of overall health

During Navratri, staying away from onions and garlic can improve general health. Although garlic is well-known for its therapeutic benefits, if taken in excess, its strong antibacterial qualities can upset the delicate balance of good intestinal flora. Having a more healthy gut microbiome is of great importance for immune system maintenance and general wellness.

Science & Environment

After EY Pune Employee Death, HDFC Bank Employee In…

25 September 2024
by admin

HDFC Bank Gomti Nagar: A woman employee of HDFC Bank in Lucknow allegedly died due to work pressure, days after the death of a woman employee of Ernst & Young (EY) India, reportedly from overwork, in Pune, according to a News18 report.

The incident took place on Tuesday, September 24. The woman, identified as Sadaf Fatima, was reportedly posted as Additional Deputy Vice-President at HDFC Bank’s Vibhuti Khand branch in Gomti Nagar.

Fatima’s colleagues stated that she passed away after collapsing in her chair at the bank. On September 24, while working, Sadaf Fatima fell from her chair and was immediately taken to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Her body was later sent for a postmortem examination.

In an X (formerly Twitter) post, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav called the incident “worrying” and described it as “a symbol of the current economic pressure in the country.”

लखनऊ में काम के दबाव और तनाव के कारण एचडीएफ़सी की एक महिलाकर्मी की ऑफिस में ही, कुर्सी से गिरकर, मृत्यु का समाचार बेहद चिंतनीय है।

ऐसे समाचार देश में वर्तमान अर्थव्यवस्था के दबाव के प्रतीक हैं। इस संदर्भ में सभी कंपनियों और सरकारी विभागों तक को गंभीरता से सोचना होगा। ये देश के… pic.twitter.com/Xj49E01MSs

— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) September 24, 2024

“Instead of improving working conditions, the BJP minister, who is lecturing the youth of the country to develop the strength to withstand pressure, is further distressing them in this time of grief.

If her government cannot provide any solace or improvement, it should at least refrain from increasing public anger with heartless and insensitive advice in the context of this incident,”Akhilesh Yadav said in his post.

“The employed people of the country have no hope from the BJP because the BJP has thrived on the money of capitalists who exploit their employees to increase profits and share those profits with the BJP,” he added.

To recall, the death of Anna Sebastian Perayil, a 26-year-old Chartered Accountant at EY in Pune, has once again brought the spotlight on the diminishing work-life balance in the lives of many corporate employees. Anna Sebastian Perayil, the EY Pune CA from Kerala, lost her life, with her mother alleging that it was due to office stress and overwork.

Science & Environment

Longest Working Hours Countries: 10 countries with the longest…

20 September 2024
by admin

The recent news of the death of a young CA in India allegedly because of over-work and work stress has not only caught people’s attention but also stirred up a debate about toxic workplaces and work-life balance in the country. On September 18, social media was buzzing with the news of a 26-year-old CA’s death, which her mother alleged was due to the overwhelming pressure and stress she had at her workplace.In a letter written by the late Anna Sebastian Perayil’s mother Anita Augustine to the MNC’s India Chairperson, Anita shared how her daughter was so full of life and dreams. However, the pressures and stress at her workplace took a toll on her and within four months of working at the MNC, Anna suddenly passed away. In response to Anita Augustine’s letter which went viral on the internet, the MNC’s India Chairperson offered his sympathies to Anna’s grieving parents in his letter which was leaked online. He also said that the company is “continually building a healthy workplace for everyone”. Meanwhile, as per reports, the Union labour ministry has now taken up the complaint and they’ll be investigating the late Anna Perayil’s untimely death and its connection to her workplace.
In light of this news, here we share the top 10 countries in the world that have the longest working hours and where India stands in it. The list is based on the data shared by the International Labour Organization (ILO) as of January 11, 2024. Checkout the list here:
1. Bhutan
Despite having a population of only 7 lakhs, people in Bhutan top the chart with the most amount of working hours in the world. Employees in Bhutan work for roughly 54.4 hours per week!
2. UAE
Next on the list is the United Arab Emirates where employees work for 50.9 hours per week to drive their economy.
3. Lesotho
In Lesotho, people work for 50.4 hours every week which makes it the third country with the highest working hours per week in the world.
4. Congo
At number four we have Congo, where employees work for 48.6 hours per week.
5. Qatar
In Qatar, employees have an average work week of 48 hours.
6. Liberia
At number six, we have Liberia where employees work for 47.7 hours per week.
7. Mauritania
People in Mauritania work for 47.6 hours per week.
8. Lebanon
At number eight we have Lebanon, where people work for 47.6 hours per week on average.
9. Mongolia
In Mongolia, employees work for 47.3 hours per week.
10. Jordan
At number 10, we have Jordan where people work for 47 hours per week on average.
What is the average workweek in India?
As per the ILO report, in India people work for 46.7 hours every week on average. The data also revealed that 51% of India’s employees work 49 hours or more per week. This makes India the second country in the world to have extended working hours, after Bhutan wherein 61 per cent of people work for over 49 hours per week.
In contrast, some of the leading economies in the world have a lower workweek for their employees. For instance: In the US, people work for 38 hours per week on average; China has a workweek of 46.1 hours; Japan’s average workweek is 36.6 hours; and the UK’s average workweek is 35.9 hours.
It is noted that working for long hours causes stress and adversely affects people’s health. In the long run, it can lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression, burnout, decreased productivity, and even lifestyle diseases like high BP and diabetes. The government and individuals too need to take active measures to ensure having better work-life balance and living a more fulfilling life.

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Science & Environment

The Negative Impact Of Over-Apologising In Relationships – News18

19 September 2024
by admin

If over-apologizing is rooted in deeper emotional or psychological issues like anxiety or past trauma, seeking support from a therapist can help you develop healthier self-esteem and communication skills.

Constantly saying “sorry,” even when you’re not at fault, can chip away at your self-esteem, reinforcing the belief that you’re always in the wrong and leading to feelings of inadequacy

Over-apologising in a relationship can be damaging to both the individual and the relationship itself. While apologizing is important for mending mistakes, doing so excessively can have harmful effects. Constantly saying “sorry,” even when you’re not at fault, can chip away at your self-esteem, reinforcing the belief that you’re always in the wrong and leading to feelings of inadequacy. Over time, this can create an unhealthy power imbalance, with one partner feeling inferior. Additionally, when apologies become too frequent, they lose their meaning, making genuine apologies seem less sincere and potentially less valued by your partner.

Mental Health Therapist, Shaurya Gahlawat talks about over apologizing in a relationship on her Instagram handle. She said, “Often, we apologise so frequently that it becomes second nature. Whether it’s a quick “sorry” for being late or a more serious apology for a minor inconvenience, these frequent apologies can undermine our confidence and send mixed signals to others about our self-worth. It’s important to evaluate our tendency to apologise excessively and to consider how this habit affects both ourselves and our interactions with others.”

Here are some ways to stop the habit of over-apologizing:

Recognize the root causeOver-apologizing can stem from anxiety, people-pleasing tendencies, or low self-esteem. Identifying the root of your habit will help you address it. According to Shaurya Gahlawat, “Understand why you tend to apologise—whether it’s out of habit, fear of conflict, insecurity, or a need for validation. Identifying the reason can help you address the underlying issue.”
Replace apologies with appreciationThe therapist says that it is better to express gratitude instead of constant apologies. She gives the example that instead of “sorry for the wait,” say “thank you for your patience.”
Pause and reflectBefore saying sorry, take a moment to assess whether the situation truly warrants an apology. This helps in distinguishing between genuine mistakes and unnecessary apologies.
Set boundariesBe mindful of your boundaries and avoid apologizing for them. As per Therapist Shaurya Gahlawat, “It’s okay to prioritize your well-being without always feeling the need to apologise.”
Rephrase your languageInstead of saying “sorry” for things that don’t require it, try rephrasing it. For instance, instead of “sorry to bother you,” say “Do you have a moment?” This shift focuses on gratitude and assertiveness rather than guilt, making your communication more positive and confident.If over-apologizing is rooted in deeper emotional or psychological issues like anxiety or past trauma, seeking support from a therapist can help you develop healthier self-esteem and communication skills. While apologies are crucial for maintaining harmony in relationships, over-apologizing can negatively impact self-worth and the relationship dynamic. A balanced approach is essential for mutual respect and healthy communication.

Swati Chaturvedi

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wis…Read More

Science & Environment

Nikocado Avocado loses 114 kg in 7 months: How…

7 September 2024
by admin

Known for his extreme mukbang videos, Nikocado Avocado has shocked his audience with an unexpected transformation. The YouTuber, whose real name is Nicholas Perry, lost an incredible 114 kg in just seven months. Admiration and curiosity have been generated by his weight loss, with some wondering if the transformation was made possible by dubious drugs like Ozempic.In a new video called “2 Steps Ahead,” Perry discussed his path and confronted his detractors while sharing the setbacks and victories that lead to his amazing weight loss. Here is all we need to know about the history of Nikocado Avocado’s transformation.

From mukbangs to weight loss

Nikocado Avocado used mukbang videos—in which he consumes a lot of food in front of the camera—to establish his YouTube empire. He became a controversial character in the online community due to his severe eating habits, which caused him to gain a lot of weight. But for him, 2023 was a turning point. He switched the subject of his channel from food binges to better eating practices. His weight loss of 114 kg made the audience curious about the process that led to this change.

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The role of mental and physical health challenges

The process of losing weight wasn’t easy for Nikocado Avocado. His connection with food was coupled with his battles with mental health conditions such as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) throughout his life. He began addressing these problems head-on in 2023, when he talked about these issues and how emotional eating frequently took over his lifestyle.

Did Ozempic play a role?

Nikocado Avocado’s weight loss has inspired many. But there have also been some worries regarding this. As per the concerns expressed by some of the viewers, the YouTuber may have used Ozempic, a medication that was initially developed to treat diabetes and has also been demonstrated to help in rapid weight loss. While some on social media speculate that Perry may have used the drug during his seven-month break, others think his transformation was the product of willpower. Fans continue to argue Perry’s use of medication even though he hasn’t acknowledged using any.
In his 25-minute video, “2 Steps Ahead,” Nikocado Avocado discussed his own experiences with weight loss and his opinions on how the public is viewed. He called his critics outright, referring to them as “ants” who mindlessly stick to online stories. He said, “People are the most messed up creatures on the entire planet, and yet I’ve still managed to stay two steps ahead of everyone!” as a message of self-awareness and perseverance to his fans.

Science & Environment

What To Eat To Improve Your Mental Health? 5…

20 July 2024
by admin

Did you know that eating specific foods can improve mental health?

Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been associated with reduced symptoms of depression and other mental health problems.

In this fast-paced world where everyone is finding it a challenge to strike the perfect balance between their personal and professional life, mental health often takes a back seat. But we tend to forget that mental health plays an important part in our overall well-being. Constant feelings of anxiety, stress, or sadness can lead to severe conditions and even depression. If not kept in check, it can hamper daily activities too. In such cases, people must talk to a professional who might counsel them or prescribe medicines. But do you know that certain foods can help boost mental health? Have a look at some of them:

SalmonFish is considered a healthy diet staple. Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been associated with reduced symptoms of depression and other mental health problems. What’s more, salmon also helps to improve memory. This type of fish tastes best when baked or grilled and served with a spicy sauce.
OrangeOranges are instant mood-lifters and can reduce stress due to their high Vitamin C content. The fruit also promotes anxiety-relieving qualities because Vitamin C is an antioxidant. They also contain folate, a B vitamin that helps to reduce depression symptoms. Oranges can be included in your diet either by eating the whole fruit or drinking a glass of orange juice.
BerriesStrawberries, blueberries, and other forms of berries are rich in antioxidants that can improve mental well-being. Antioxidant-rich foods are linked to improving anxiety conditions or depressive episodes. You can consume berries as a mid-meal snack or for breakfast. You can also mix it in your smoothie bowls for a healthy start to the day.
Sweet potatoesSweet potatoes have a high level of vitamin B6, which is a vital nutrient that helps in the production of serotonin and dopamine. Both compounds are important in regulating mood and alleviating anxiety. Sweet potatoes can be baked, roasted, or mashed to make various recipes. Sweet potato fries are also a delicious and nutritious snack option.
Dark chocolateDue to the greater cocoa content in dark chocolate, it is considered to be healthy. These bars include a type of antioxidant known as flavonoids, which is a mood-booster. Dark chocolate also helps in memory and attention. However, it should be consumed in moderation.

Riya Ashok Madayi

Riya has an extra flair for the world of fashion and an unwavering commitment to writing about music and artists from around the world. She loves delv…Read More

Science & Environment

Psychologist vs psychiatrist: What’s the difference | – Times…

5 July 2024
by admin

Mental health is of prime importance and off late people have started realizing its importance. Psychologists and psychiatrists play crucial roles in addressing mental health needs. Psychologists specialize in psychotherapy and psychological assessment, helping individuals cope with emotional challenges, behavioral issues, and mental disorders through evidence-based interventions.Psychiatrists focus on diagnosing and treating complex mental illnesses.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are both professionals who specialize in mental health, but they differ significantly in their training, approaches, and scope of practice.

Psychologists have an advanced degree in psychology

Psychologists are trained in understanding human behavior, emotions, and mental processes through scientific research and clinical practice. They employ various psychotherapeutic techniques to help individuals manage psychological issues, improve coping skills, and enhance overall well-being.
Psychologists focus on assessing and diagnosing mental health conditions using standardized psychological tests and assessments. They often work in diverse settings such as clinics, hospitals, schools, and private practices. Their therapeutic approaches may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoanalysis, humanistic therapy, and more, tailored to individual needs and treatment goals. Psychologists do not prescribe medication unless they have additional training as a prescribing psychologist in certain states or countries.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in psychiatry

Psychiatry is a branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental disorders. They undergo rigorous medical training to gain expertise in understanding the biological, psychological, and social aspects of mental health. Psychiatrists are licensed to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychiatric conditions and often collaborate with other medical professionals to provide comprehensive care.

Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medicines

One of the primary distinctions between psychologists and psychiatrists lies in their ability to prescribe medication. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe psychotropic medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and anxiolytics to manage psychiatric symptoms. They conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations to diagnose mental disorders, monitor treatment efficacy, and adjust medication regimens as needed based on patients’ responses and potential side effects.

In terms of education and training, psychiatrists are trained to diagnose and manage a wide range of psychiatric disorders, from mood disorders and anxiety disorders to psychotic disorders and substance use disorders. Psychiatrists often work in hospital settings, community mental health centers, outpatient clinics, and private practices, collaborating closely with psychologists, social workers, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide integrated care for patients.
Psychiatrists also utilize psychotherapy in their practice, although their focus is primarily on medication management and the biological aspects of mental illness. They may incorporate psychotherapeutic interventions such as supportive therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic therapy to complement pharmacological treatments and address the psychological aspects of mental health conditions.

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Science & Environment

Naomi Osaka announces return to professional tennis in 2024…

3 June 2024
by admin

CNN
—

Former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka intends to return to professional tennis in 2024, the 25-year-old said in an interview with ESPN on Wednesday.

The four-time major champion – who welcomed a baby girl in July with her boyfriend, rapper Cordae – said she plans to play a busy schedule next year.

“It’s definitely way more tournaments than I used to play,” Osaka told ESPN. “So, I think some people will be happy with that.”

“I think it’s because I realized that I don’t know how the beginning of the year is going to go for me. I don’t know the level of play and I think I have to ease into it. So at the very least, I’m going to set myself up for a very good end of the year,” Osaka said.

Osaka, who has not played since the Toray Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo in September 2022, has previously said she planned to return to tennis in 2024 for the Australian Open, a tournament she has won on two previous occasions.

Osaka was asked if her break from tennis made her miss it, to which she responded “definitely.”

“I’ve been watching matches and I’m like, ‘I wish I was playing too,’” Osaka said. “But I’m in this position now and I’m very grateful. I really love my daughter a lot, but I think it really fueled a fire in me.”

Osaka took some time away from competitive tennis and made several highly publicized disclosures about her struggles with mental health following an incident in 2021, where she was visibly stressed and emotional while addressing the media during a mandatory news conference at Roland Garros.

She subsequently pulled out of the French Open that year and revealed she had “suffered long bouts of depression” since winning her first major championship in 2018.

Osaka was in attendance at the US Open in New York on Wednesday. She also participated the same day in a forum on mental health at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, joined by USA Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, and Dr. Brian Hainline, chairman of the US Tennis Association’s board and NCAA chief medical officer.

Osaka said she learned a lot from talking about her experiences with mental health and becoming an advocate for mental health awareness.

“I feel like I am someone that’s learning all the time. Obviously, I learned a lot from the talk as I was talking,” Osaka said. “I would say my role is just raising awareness and letting people know that they’re not alone.

“Physical pain and mental pain are sort of the same to me. We have doctors for physical health but when we talk about mental health it’s not as well received, so just raising awareness on that.”

She was also asked about her comments previously that she felt “lonely” while she was pregnant.

“I definitely only know this world, the tennis world,” Osaka said. “Just being away from that for a long time, it was new for me. I think it was just the new situation and not being able to train like I wanted to, it made me feel like I would just stay at home. … It felt like a lot of restrictions.”

Science & Environment

6 ways alcohol affects body – Times of India

19 May 2024
by admin

While every other report and doctors claim it is bad for health, alcohol is a widely consumed beverage that affects the body in ways that go beyond the feeling of being instantly intoxicated. Knowing how different systems and organs are impacted by alcohol might enable people to make wise decisions regarding their alcohol use. Here are six physiological effects of alcohol:

Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressant

Alcohol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, which means that it slows down brain activity and reduces cognitive ability.This may cause symptoms like poor judgment, diminished coordination, and slurred speech.

Liver damage

Alcohol is metabolized by the liver, but too much alcohol can overtax the liver’s capacity, causing damage to the liver and a host of other illnesses such cirrhosis, fatty liver, and alcoholic hepatitis.

Effects on mental health

Drinking alcohol can have a serious negative impact on one’s mental health, making anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders worse. Long-term alcohol misuse is also linked to a higher chance of alcohol use disorder (AUD), a dangerous and possibly fatal illness.

Immune system suppression

Drinking alcohol excessively and over extended periods of time can impair immunity, leaving people more vulnerable to diseases and infections. Alcohol undermines the body’s defenses against infections by interfering with the production of antibodies and immunological cells.

Effects on the heart and blood vessels

Drinking too much can harm the heart and blood vessels, although drinking moderately may have some lesser cardiovascular issues. Chronic alcohol dependency is linked to cardiomyopathy, elevated blood pressure, and a higher risk of stroke and heart disease.

Gastrointestinal distress

Consuming Alcohol irritates the lining of the gastrointestinal tract and causes inflammation and raises the chance of developing diseases like gastritis, ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Pancreatitis is a painful inflammation of the pancreas that can also be brought on by alcohol abuse.

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