This material is intended for global medical media only, excl US.

For journalistic assessment and preparation before publication.

- A separate real-world study showed that people with type 2 diabetes on two oral antidiabetic drugs who intensified with a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) were significantly more likely to reach their blood sugar goals and lose weight compared to adding a further oral antidiabetic drug(s) or insulin.1

BAGSVRD, Denmark, June 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/-- Novo Nordisk today announced results from two real-world studies: EXPERT, which confirms the efficacy Ozempic (onceweekly semaglutide) demonstrated in the SUSTAIN clinical trial programme, and PATHWAY, which supports recommendations in clinical guidelines by showing that initiation of a GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) helps people with type 2 diabetes reach their blood sugar goals (measured by HbA1c) while also losing weight. These studies, which analysed data from US databases, were presented during the American Diabetes Association 80th Scientific Sessions.1,2

The EXPERT study showed that a switch to Ozempic from another GLP-1 RA in people with type 2 diabetes was associated with statistically significant reductions in blood sugar and weight, independent of the previous GLP-1 RA used. After 6 months, the study showed HbA1c reductions of 2.2% for people with HbA1c levels above 9% at baseline and HbA1c reductions of 1.1% for those with HbA1c levels above 7% at baseline. These reductions were sustained after 12 months. Average weight loss of 2.2 kg was observed at 6 months, but was more pronounced with 3.5 kg at 12 months, for all participants.2

A second real-world study, PATHWAY, pointed to the increased effectiveness of the GLP-1 RA class compared with other oral antidiabetic drugs or insulin in people with type 2 diabetes on two oral antidiabetic drugs requiring treatment intensification. Ozempic was not one of the GLP-1 RA treatments given at intensification because the study data were collated before Ozempic was fully established on the US market.

The PATHWAY study showed thatintensifying treatment with a GLP-1 RA resulted in a statistically significant increased likelihood of achieving HbA1c below 7% and weight reduction from baseline compared with adding a further oral antidiabetic(s). These blood glucose and weight reductions were more pronounced compared with insulin intensification, where those taking a GLP-1 RA were almost twice as likely to achieve HbA1c below 7% and approximately three times more likely to lose weight.1

"GLP-1 receptor agonists have been shown to safely lower blood glucose levels and help lower weight, therefore they are recommended by all diabetes treatment guidelines as either second- or third-line treatment options in most people with type 2 diabetes," said study investigator Dr. Ildiko Lingvay, who consults for Novo Nordisk and is a Professor of Internal Medicine, and Population and Data Sciences at UT Southwestern Medical Center. "These data provide information from the real-world use of GLP-1 receptor agonists and further support the recommendations in the clinical guidelines by showing that initiation of a GLP-1 receptor agonist helps more people with type 2 diabetes reach their blood sugar goals while also helping them lose weight."

"More than half of people with type 2 diabetes do not reach their blood sugar target, yet we know that consistently poor blood sugar control can lead to serious complications," said Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, executive vice president and chief science officer of Novo Nordisk. "Real-world data is therefore essential to help physicians select optimal treatment for their patients to meet their blood sugar goals, and it is reassuring to see from the EXPERT study that the efficacy Ozempic demonstrated in the SUSTAIN Phase 3 clinical trial programme is reflected in routine clinical practice."

Whilst real-world evidence generates valuable insights about the effectiveness of a medicine in a real-life setting, there are also limitations. Real-world studies may be subject to bias and confounding factors, aspects that are controlled for in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). For example, electronic data may be inconsistently collected, with missing data elements that can result in reduced statistical validity. Similarly, adverse events are rarely captured in databases that act as data sources for real-world studies. Therefore real-world evidence should be considered alongside the results of RCTs and the findings evaluated with appropriate caution. As seen in clinical trials, the most common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach (abdominal) pain, and constipation.

For additional media materials, including video footage of the EXPERT and PATHWAY study investigators providing further context on the data, please visit: http://www.epresspack.net/novonordiskADA2020/RWEGLP1Class

About EXPERT

The GLP-1-Experienced Patients Switching to Once-Weekly Semaglutide in a Real-World Setting (EXPERT) study used prescription data from Explorys (IBM Watson Health) US medical records database (data cut-off 12/5/19). Adults with type 2 diabetes with 1 prescription for semaglutide (index/switch date), a prescription for any other GLP-1 RA (baseline) in the previous year, and separate HbA1c/weight measurements at 6 and/or 12 months post-index and in the 90-day pre-index period were identified from the database. Participants with valid HbA1c (n=365) and weight (n=480) data were included in the study and had similar baseline characteristics.2

About PATHWAY

The PATHWAY study compared treatment intensification options for glycaemic control in people with type 2 diabetes on two oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs). The PATHWAY study used linked electronic medical records and claims data from IBM MarketScan Explorys Claims-EMR (index period: 3/1/1310/31/18). The study comprised two groups: the HbA1c cohort (n= 4,792) and the weight and composite endpoint analysis cohort (n = 3,927). Participants with 1 claim for 2 different OADs in the 180 days pre-index, 1 claim for another OAD/GLP-1 RA/insulin (index date), 1 HbA1c and/or weightmeasurement 180 days post-index, and 1 HbA1c and/or weight measurement close to index date (baseline) were included in the study. Cohorts for GLP-1 RAs vs OADs and vs insulin were propensity score matched pairwise by baseline variables and exact matched by HbA1c category, resulting in well balanced cohorts across all baseline characteristics.1

About SUSTAIN clinical trial programme

The SUSTAIN clinical development programme for Ozempiccurrently comprises 10 Phase 3 global clinical trials, including a cardiovascular outcomes trial, which included people with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk. The programme involves more than 10,000 adults with type 2 diabetes in total.3-12

About Ozempic

Ozempic(once-weekly semaglutide) is an analogue of the naturally occurring hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). It is administered in a once-weekly injection of 0.5 mg or 1 mg and indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycaemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes as well as to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.13 Ozempicwas first approved by the US FDA in 2017 and is now launched in 25 countries.

About Novo Nordisk

Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company, founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Our purpose is to drive change to defeat diabetes and other serious chronic diseases such as obesity and rare blood and endocrine disorders. We do so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs about 43,100 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries. For more information, visit novonordisk.com,Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube.

References

Further information

SOURCE Novo Nordisk

See original here:
Switching to Ozempic(R) from another GLP-1 RA significantly reduced blood sugar and weight in people - PharmiWeb.com

This material is intended for global medical media only, excl US.

For journalistic assessment and preparation before publication.

- A separate real-world study showed that people with type 2 diabetes on two oral antidiabetic drugs who intensified with a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) were significantly more likely to reach their blood sugar goals and lose weight compared to adding a further oral antidiabetic drug(s) or insulin.1

BAGSVRD, Denmark, June 13, 2020 /PRNewswire/-- Novo Nordisk today announced results from two real-world studies: EXPERT, which confirms the efficacy Ozempic (onceweekly semaglutide) demonstrated in the SUSTAIN clinical trial programme, and PATHWAY, which supports recommendations in clinical guidelines by showing that initiation of a GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) helps people with type 2 diabetes reach their blood sugar goals (measured by HbA1c) while also losing weight. These studies, which analysed data from US databases, were presented during the American Diabetes Association 80th Scientific Sessions.1,2

The EXPERT study showed that a switch to Ozempic from another GLP-1 RA in people with type 2 diabetes was associated with statistically significant reductions in blood sugar and weight, independent of the previous GLP-1 RA used. After 6 months, the study showed HbA1c reductions of 2.2% for people with HbA1c levels above 9% at baseline and HbA1c reductions of 1.1% for those with HbA1c levels above 7% at baseline. These reductions were sustained after 12 months. Average weight loss of 2.2 kg was observed at 6 months, but was more pronounced with 3.5 kg at 12 months, for all participants.2

A second real-world study, PATHWAY, pointed to the increased effectiveness of the GLP-1 RA class compared with other oral antidiabetic drugs or insulin in people with type 2 diabetes on two oral antidiabetic drugs requiring treatment intensification. Ozempic was not one of the GLP-1 RA treatments given at intensification because the study data were collated before Ozempic was fully established on the US market.

The PATHWAY study showed thatintensifying treatment with a GLP-1 RA resulted in a statistically significant increased likelihood of achieving HbA1c below 7% and weight reduction from baseline compared with adding a further oral antidiabetic(s). These blood glucose and weight reductions were more pronounced compared with insulin intensification, where those taking a GLP-1 RA were almost twice as likely to achieve HbA1c below 7% and approximately three times more likely to lose weight.1

"GLP-1 receptor agonists have been shown to safely lower blood glucose levels and help lower weight, therefore they are recommended by all diabetes treatment guidelines as either second- or third-line treatment options in most people with type 2 diabetes," said study investigator Dr. Ildiko Lingvay, who consults for Novo Nordisk and is a Professor of Internal Medicine, and Population and Data Sciences at UT Southwestern Medical Center. "These data provide information from the real-world use of GLP-1 receptor agonists and further support the recommendations in the clinical guidelines by showing that initiation of a GLP-1 receptor agonist helps more people with type 2 diabetes reach their blood sugar goals while also helping them lose weight."

"More than half of people with type 2 diabetes do not reach their blood sugar target, yet we know that consistently poor blood sugar control can lead to serious complications," said Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, executive vice president and chief science officer of Novo Nordisk. "Real-world data is therefore essential to help physicians select optimal treatment for their patients to meet their blood sugar goals, and it is reassuring to see from the EXPERT study that the efficacy Ozempic demonstrated in the SUSTAIN Phase 3 clinical trial programme is reflected in routine clinical practice."

Whilst real-world evidence generates valuable insights about the effectiveness of a medicine in a real-life setting, there are also limitations. Real-world studies may be subject to bias and confounding factors, aspects that are controlled for in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). For example, electronic data may be inconsistently collected, with missing data elements that can result in reduced statistical validity. Similarly, adverse events are rarely captured in databases that act as data sources for real-world studies. Therefore real-world evidence should be considered alongside the results of RCTs and the findings evaluated with appropriate caution. As seen in clinical trials, the most common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach (abdominal) pain, and constipation.

For additional media materials, including video footage of the EXPERT and PATHWAY study investigators providing further context on the data, please visit: http://www.epresspack.net/novonordiskADA2020/RWEGLP1Class

About EXPERT

The GLP-1-Experienced Patients Switching to Once-Weekly Semaglutide in a Real-World Setting (EXPERT) study used prescription data from Explorys (IBM Watson Health) US medical records database (data cut-off 12/5/19). Adults with type 2 diabetes with 1 prescription for semaglutide (index/switch date), a prescription for any other GLP-1 RA (baseline) in the previous year, and separate HbA1c/weight measurements at 6 and/or 12 months post-index and in the 90-day pre-index period were identified from the database. Participants with valid HbA1c (n=365) and weight (n=480) data were included in the study and had similar baseline characteristics.2

About PATHWAY

The PATHWAY study compared treatment intensification options for glycaemic control in people with type 2 diabetes on two oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs). The PATHWAY study used linked electronic medical records and claims data from IBM MarketScan Explorys Claims-EMR (index period: 3/1/1310/31/18). The study comprised two groups: the HbA1c cohort (n= 4,792) and the weight and composite endpoint analysis cohort (n = 3,927). Participants with 1 claim for 2 different OADs in the 180 days pre-index, 1 claim for another OAD/GLP-1 RA/insulin (index date), 1 HbA1c and/or weightmeasurement 180 days post-index, and 1 HbA1c and/or weight measurement close to index date (baseline) were included in the study. Cohorts for GLP-1 RAs vs OADs and vs insulin were propensity score matched pairwise by baseline variables and exact matched by HbA1c category, resulting in well balanced cohorts across all baseline characteristics.1

About SUSTAIN clinical trial programme

The SUSTAIN clinical development programme for Ozempiccurrently comprises 10 Phase 3 global clinical trials, including a cardiovascular outcomes trial, which included people with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk. The programme involves more than 10,000 adults with type 2 diabetes in total.3-12

About Ozempic

Ozempic(once-weekly semaglutide) is an analogue of the naturally occurring hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). It is administered in a once-weekly injection of 0.5 mg or 1 mg and indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycaemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes as well as to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.13 Ozempicwas first approved by the US FDA in 2017 and is now launched in 25 countries.

About Novo Nordisk

Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company, founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Our purpose is to drive change to defeat diabetes and other serious chronic diseases such as obesity and rare blood and endocrine disorders. We do so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs about 43,100 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries. For more information, visit novonordisk.com,Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube.

References

Further information

https://www.novonordisk.com

SOURCE Novo Nordisk

Here is the original post:
Switching to Ozempic from another GLP-1 RA significantly reduced blood sugar and weight in people with type 2 diabetes in routine clinical practice -...

Zumba Training: Sucheta Pal, Zumba Master Trainer has shared some lesser-known and other important details about this popular workout.

We all know how fun and popular Zumba workout is. But aside from this major perk and social benefits of a group workout, one can improve quality of life as there are several health benefits of it right from weight loss to better immune system, better blood pressure among others. Those who burn excess calories have toned body and sculpted muscles but looking for an easy and effective workout then look no further. For the unversed, Zumba workout features movements inspired by varied styles of Latin American dance.

It is a full-body-workout which means it involves the movement of the entire body right from your arms to your feet. To know more about this particular workout, we asked Sucheta Pal, Master Trainer (Zumba Education Specialist ZES), Zumba, Miami to reveal how Zumba can help to build immunity considering how important it is right now more than ever. She also shared about India's largest living room fitness masterclass (featured none other than Zumba creator Beto Perez) which was held recently. Read on to know more.

1. Can you share how Zumba aids in immunity?

The first and foremost benefit of Zumba which is like a "happy workout" is that it slows down the release of stress hormones which is the number one reason for illness. The increase in blood circulation and body temperature during and after exercise tremendously helps fight infections better. The best part is that regular exercise like Zumba has an anti-inflammatory influence which is key to fighting off viruses.

2. How can Zumba help weight watchers?

Many of our participants across the world have recorded a calorie burn of over 500 and sometimes even reaching 800 calories per session which typically lasts 60 mins. We have had amazing stories of Zumba fans in India who have seen substantial weight loss within 3 months of regularly attending classes whether live or virtual.

4. What are the types of Zumba that people are not aware of?

Zumba is one of the top group fitness brands in the world. Its also now a household name in India with every gym and studio offering a class whether it's in Mumbai or in Madurai. But some of the other formats of Zumba are now slowly catching on. One major hit is the Zumba Kids program which has specially designed music and kid-friendly choreography created to get the little rockstars moving and grooving. Another format is Aqua Zumba which takes this fitness party like the class to the pool in summers. We also have the Zumba Gold program for the active old adults and Zumba Toning for those who wish to incorporate some dumbells into their Zumba workout. Only licensed Zumba instructors in these formats conduct these specialized formats and will be listed on zumba.com for anyone to find and attend.

4. What are the vital things to know/follow before you start a virtual or offline Zumba class?

It is very important that we treat a virtual class similar to how we would a live class. Have ample space to move safely at your home, have a bottle of water for hydration, wear comfortable workout clothes and the right shoes to ensure ease of movement and safety. With a virtual class, one thing to add would be to test out the online platform via which your licensed Zumba instructor will be teaching the class whether its zumba.dance or Zoom and attach a speaker and have a good internet connection to create the right experience for yourself.

5. Can you share about the record-breaking living room fitness masterclass?

We created history in India with this class. Not only through the huge number of participants but with 17 Zumba Education Specialists leading the class from their homes in every corner of the country. We are proud to spotlight the importance of fitness instructors in this country, especially during these difficult times.

ALSO READ: Zumba creator Beto Perez OPENS UP on weight loss, lesser-known benefits and myths of this workout

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From Weight Loss to Better Immunity: Here's why you should add Zumba to your fitness routine - PINKVILLA

In this sensitive, timely and, literally, vital piece, Dr. Oz outlines the doable and practical ways that all of us, especially the most vulnerable among us, can realistically tackle the conditions that undermine good health and make people less able to fight such terrible diseases as Covid-19.

Guest post by Dr. Mehmet Oz.

Vulnerable populations have been hard hit by Covid-19.

We are taught early on in medical school that when an avalanche of complex patient data sounds like hoofbeats, we should expect horses more than zebras. As the nation has focused on a daily firehose of Covid-19 information, doctors have been searching for the subtle predictors of why some groups are spared and others suffer disproportionately. We now have evidence explaining why African Americans have over twice the complication rate with Covid-19 as white populations. Over the past weeks, this documentation has revealed the higher prevalence of such chronic health conditions as obesity, hypertension, diabetes and lung diseaseailments that are much more common in underserved communities due to complex factors, including chronic stress and jobs that make social distancing nearly impossible.It also exposes how African Americans are disproportionately suffering.

. For example, Northwell Health, the large New York hospital system, shared the fact that 88% of their hospitalized patients have two or more co-morbid conditions. CDC data and experiences from other countries reflect similar findings.

Not surprisingly, when the Presidents new guidelines for Opening up America Again'' were announced, I noticed that if the guidelines were followed 60% of our fellow citizens wouldnt be going anywhere for quite a while. Through the first two phases, shelter in place remains the rule for the vulnerable population who have co-morbid conditions. Many would advise restricting this groups activity until we have a vaccine.

Its feared that highlighting this reality would embarrass people who are already struggling. But after helping people address their chronic conditions for my entire career, Im confident that this empowering wake-up call would be heeded by many Americans who feel their lives and livelihood are no longer under their control. More important, influencing these risk factors through lifestyle changes would accrue benefits far beyond this pandemic.

So how do we make it easy for people to do the right thing? We start with knowledge.If the body is fighting internal battles to protect its health against poor lifestyle choices, our immune-system defenses are distracted from external threats like the Covid-19 virus. Chronic ailments also damage the thin lining of our arteries, which causes scarring and plaques to build up. Viral infections may increase blood clotting, cause an overreaction by the immune system (so-called cytokine storm), and plaque rupture leading to heart attacks.

But we can reverse these risks, starting with simple steps to move us from being Vulnerable to Vital as we engage in life.

High blood pressureabove 140/90is reported by many doctors to be both the biggest driver of aging and the most common risk factor among those hospitalized by Covid-19. Walking is an ideal first step for people to take as the country is reopening, but vulnerable populations should socially distance. For them something to remember is high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which can help reducethe stiffness of artery walls, leading to alowerrestingblood pressure. HIIT allows us to exercise at our max for short periods and at lower intensity in between.Try doing intense squats, jumping jacks or planks for one minute and then rest for another minute. Gently build up to 4 minutes of activity followed by 3 minutes off until you reach 20 minutes total. Or even better, visit IHRSA.org and enter your zip code to find a gym near you that can safely kickstart you with some home online programs.

Losing inches off your waistline will also reduce blood pressure and prevent fat cells from creating inflammation, which inhibits the bodys ability to fight infections and even lowers the effectiveness of some vaccines. Roughly half of hospitalized young patients are obese because of inflammation, which starts in belly fat. This is why the tape measure is the best tool in determining if we are inflamed. Forget Quarantine Fifteen (the catch phrase for weight gain during the Covid-19 lockdown) on the scale; instead, get out a tape measure: Mens waists should be less than 37 inches, womens less than 35 inches.

To shave off a few inches, start by cutting back on simple sugars and lean into ancient whole grains like quinoa or farro. Immune-supporting herbs and spices upgrade the diet while reducing salt, so start addingginger,garlicand turmeric into meals. Snacks like nuts and hummus help quench our cravings. Desserts are metabolic suicide and should go the way of the handshake during Covid-19.If you still want to mindlessly eat calories to feed your feelings, opt for high-volume foods with little calories to lessen the damage. My favorites are air-popped popcorn, watermelon, frozen grapesand, of course, kale.

Pre-diabetes afflicts a third of the U.S.population, though many people are unaware they fit the category. It is addressed by the weight-loss tips offered above. If you want a comprehensive jumpstart, my television show, The Dr. Oz Show, has developed and tested a very popular System 20 plan designed for 2020 that will help you lose 20 pounds (if you need to lose weight) while cutting down the risks of chronic illness by up to 20%. Intermittent fasting is critical to its success, so we ask that you delay breakfast until late morning and eat dinner in early evening so your body can recover from having to digest food all night long.The program is free. Print out the one-sheet for your fridge, so you can start cutting back on processed foods.

Finally, lung disease hinders our ability to power through pneumonia, which often accompanies Covid-19 in hospitalized patients. Vaping and smoking damage the lungs defense mechanisms, so let me share the advice that I offer my heart-surgery patients: At least for the several weeks around your procedure, help me to help you by stopping smoking/vaping. Covid-19 is as dangerous as heart surgery for some people, so please accept the same advice. Hopefully, once you break the habit, youll never go back to inhaling again.

Even a few weeks of having a healthy lifestyle should yield measurable improvements, but youll feel better almost immediately. And instead of passively watching the world spin wildly around you, youll be able to can take charge of your most precious assetyour bodyand say goodbye to your sheltering-in-place days.

Mehmet Oz, M.D., Attending Physician, New York Presbyterian/Columbia, host of The Dr. Oz Show

See the rest here:
Dr. Oz: A Message To The Vulnerable - Forbes

By Express News Service

Garcinia cambogia is an exotic fruit grown in South India and has been used by our ancestors for ages. It has particularly been used in Indian cooking for the sour notes that it imparts. For those who may not know, garcinia cambogia is nothing but our very own kokum, better known as the Malabari tamarind.

It has many healing properties and nutrients. Additionally, in summers its one of the most easily available superfoods that aids in cooling the body.

It is also rich in hydroxycitric acid or HCA that helps in fat-burning, boosts metabolism, acts as an appetite suppressant, and aids in weight loss.

The HCA in the fruit inhibits the enzyme, citrate lyase, from converting carbohydrates into fat. This process forces the body to burn carbohydrates.

One could say that its an elixir of weight loss. Also, the Alpha Lipoic acid that is found in kokum is an effective antioxidant. The acid binds with toxic metals in the blood and removes them from the body.

Kokum extract or supplements are best taken before meals because it works upon the nutrients that we ingest. But remember, the concentration of the supplement should not exceed 2,000 mg. To see results, one would need to take kokum for about three months.

However, side effects, if taken without consulting a doctor or used for extended periods, could include nausea, discomfort in the digestive tract andheadaches.Safe for those above the age of 18, pure garcinia extract/supplement can be used in its concentrated form.

While the plant and its fruit have been eaten safely for years, breastfeeding mothers or pregnant women should avoid HCA supplements. Additionally, diabetics, who take insulin or glyburide, should talk to their doctors/nutritionists before taking an HCA supplement, as it could cause a sudden drop in blood sugar.It can also interfere with blood thinners, psychiatric medicines, pain medicines, and statins, which are drugs used to lower cholesterol. It is always best to consult a health care provider before taking any supplement.

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Kokum connection - The New Indian Express

Weight loss can often be associated with intense diets that not only restrict what you can eat but also restrict key nutrients and vitamins from entering the body. Belly fat is one of the hardest places on the body to lose fat but an expert in the field has revealed his top tips on how to lose belly fat following simple easy steps. With the UK still in lockdown, here are some easy steps you can follow from the comfort of your own home in order to lose weight.

Belly fat, also known as visceral fat is often one of the places that people find hard to lose weight because that area contains a large number of fat cells.

Fat around the stomach occurs when the body is consuming more energy than the body is using and therefore it gets stored as fat.

The high amount of fat cells around the belly area dont respond as easily as other cells do to a process known as lipolysis, the fat breakdown process.

David Weiner, Training Specialist at Freeletics told theExpress.co.ukthat the two most effective ways to get rid of this type of fat are diet and exercise.

READ MORE:Weight loss diet plan: 5:2 intermittent fasting diet helps you lose weight fast

While this may not be new information, he has revealed what you should be eating to help this area burn fat.

He said: The basic principle of losing visceral fat is to consume fewer calories than your body needs and eating a diet rich in healthy and wholesome foods, like fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, wholegrain and lean protein, and eliminate processed, high sugar and high fat foods from your diet.

If you consume high fat unhealthy foods then you will most likely be eating more calories than you are burning, resulting in you losing no weight at all.

David continued: Use low-fat cooking methods, such as broiling, boiling, or baking, instead of frying.

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When using oils, reach for the healthier options such as olive oil, instead of butter or peanut oil.

Olive oil is considered to be one of the healthiest fats in the world. It is rich in a substance called oleic acid, which has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect and health benefits go further than just weight loss.

The healthy oil has been linked to weight loss as well as lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease. It may be high in calories but a small splash should go a long way.

The expert said: Reducing your intake of carbohydrates could also help as research indicates that excess carbohydrate consumption can cause high levels of visceral fat.

Consuming carbohydrates causes blood sugars to rise, which then will cause insulin levels to rise. This then results in glucose to go into fat cells, which will ultimately turn into fat.

Slimmers who wish to reduce their carbohydrate intake may opt for following a Keto or Atkins diet.

A reduction in carbs puts your body into a metabolic state known as ketosis. When the body does not have enough glucose for energy, it burns stored fats instead.

The ketosis state also makes your body very efficient when it comes to burning belly fat.

However dieting isnt for everyone and there are other methods you can do in order lose belly fat and one of them is undertaking exercise as part of your regular routine.

It is a well known fact that anyone wanting to lose weight must be in a calorie deficit in order to do so. This means burning off more calories than your body is consuming. Therefore exercise is a fundamental aspect of any weight loss journey.

David continued: Physical activity and exercise are also an effective way to reduce levels of visceral fat. Aerobic activity which stimulates the heart and breathing rate, causing it to increase is one of the best ways to burn belly fat.

Exercises including swimming, walking, running or cycling are the best form of exercise to help burn belly fat.

The expert said: High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) can also increase your bodys ability to burn fat and elevate your bodys fat burning potential throughout the day. HIIT exercise refers to workouts which include short bursts of intensive activity followed by periods of lower intensity exercise which really push your body and maximise its calorie and fat burning potential.

Experts recommend around one hour of exercise per day and this must be a mixture of cardio as well as strength training.

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Weight loss: Expert shares effective ways to burn belly fat fast - Express

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and major cause of long-term disability in adults.

Stroke occurs due to sudden blockage of blood flow to the brain and causes sudden neurological deficits. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity and diabetes are leading causes of stroke. Now there is growing evidence that COVID-19 infection may also increase the risk of stroke.

While 75 percent of all strokes occur in people over age 65, strokes are now striking people with COVID-19 who are in their 30s and 40s.

Experts believe the strokes may be a result of blood clots caused by the virus. While mini-strokes often don't cause permanent damage, bigger ones can be catastrophic. Preliminary data suggests patients with COVID-19 are mostly experiencing severe or large strokes which can destroy parts of the brain responsible for movement, speech and decision-making.

During the coronavirus pandemic, it is especially important for people to be vigilant and aware of stroke signs. If someone has stroke symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately. Even a large stroke is treatable if treated quickly.

"Time is brain" is something doctors say when it comes to treating a patient who's having a stroke. Every second can mean the difference between life and death, total independence or long-term disability.

Do not avoid seeking help due to concerns of exposure to coronavirus.

BE FAST can help stroke patients get the treatment needed, on time, for a good outcome.

B: Balance. Does the person have a sudden loss of balance?

E: Eyes. Has the person lost vision in one or both eyes?

F: Face. Does the person's face look uneven?

A: Arms. Is one arm weak or numb?

S: Speech. Is the person's speech slurred? Does the person have trouble speaking or seem confused?

T: Time. If you see these signs in yourself or anyone, call 911 immediately.

Stroke can occur at any age but risk increases as people get older. Other factors can increase the chances of having a stroke, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and bad eating habits.

Up to 80 percent of strokes may be prevented by living a healthy lifestyle. Here are five ways to help decrease the chance of stroke:

Stroke survivors should continue taking their medications as directed by their doctor and be extra careful about protecting themselves from COVID-19.

For updates on COVID-19, check EEHealth.org/coronavirus.

Continued here:
The link between COVID-19 and stroke - Patch.com

If you suddenly lose your sense of smell, there is a chance you may be infected with the coronavirus.

Last month, a global survey on the loss of the sense of smell or taste in people who have tested positive for Covid-19 found that for some, the loss of the ability to smell (anosmia) can be an early or the only symptom of infection.

Preliminary results of the survey by the Global Consortium for Chemosensory Research (GCCR) indicated that Covid-19 is associated with severe impairment of smell, taste and chemesthesis. GCCR is a group of international scientists investigating the links between chemical senses and Sars-CoV-2.

As more evidence of anosmia being a symptom of Covid-19 emerges, it is used more frequently to screen for possible cases.

After the World Health Organisation and the United States, Britain added anosmia to its official list of Covid-19 symptoms last month, asking those with continuous cough or fever or anosmia to self-isolate.

In Singapore, anosmia is included in the Ministry of Health website's list of Covid-19 symptoms and in circulars to doctors, as Dr Barnaby Young, a consultant at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID), pointed out.

"In Covid-19, loss of taste or smell usually occurs along with the other typical features of a viral infection such as fever, cough, sore throat and rhinorrhea," he said.

"Curiously, a few patients have presented with loss of smell as the only symptom, but this is unusual - less than one out of a hundred based on a survey conducted in the NCID screening centre in March."

For weeks, scientists have argued that loss of the sense of smell is a symptom of Covid-19, as more and more anecdotal reports on the rapid onset of this symptom surface.

Anosmia can also affect your sense of taste, as the two sensations are closely linked.

As early as March 20, ENT UK, a professional body of ear, nose and throat surgeons in Britain, had said in a joint statement with the British Rhinological Society that anosmia may be a symptom of Covid-19, and it could be used to screen otherwise asymptomatic patients.

Professor Carl Philpott, who is part of GCCR and a professor of rhinology and olfactology at the University of East Anglia's Norwich Medical School, said the multinational study was launched in response to these reports. The study's early results came from 4,039 respondents, who hail from 41 countries, including Singapore.

To date, 35,000 respondents worldwide have done the survey.

"Although patients frequently report smell and taste loss, they are almost always only suffering smell loss on closer inspection.

"This is because people are unable to easily separate smell of food (retronasal olfaction) from true taste (gustation)," Prof Philpott told The Straits Times.

The study offers more evidence that Covid-19 may affect more than just smell, with true taste and also nasal burning being reported, he said. "Nasal obstruction was also found to be common but its extent didn't correlate with the degree of smell loss," he said.

He added that loss of the sense of smell appears to be affecting women (72 per cent) and younger patients more, and that women may be more prone to it due to oestrogen receptors.

The loss of ability to taste or smell is a common feature of viral respiratory infections, from the common cold to influenza, and this is probably because of the nasal congestion caused by the infection, said Dr Young.

"It is possible that Covid-19 infection causes some irritation or inflammation to the olfactory nerves (in addition to nasal congestion) and this is something we are investigating," he said.

As to the frequency of this symptom, Dr Young said there is no good data from the patients and it is something they are investigating.

For most patients, loss of the sense of smell or taste resolves along with the other symptoms, though a minority have reported it persisting for a few weeks or months, he said.

Prof Philpott said smell loss typically happens suddenly and then gradually comes back in seven to 14 days. He said it was still too early to tell how many people may be left with more permanent smell loss.

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More evidence that losing sense of smell, taste is coronavirus symptom - straits times

Heart heath: Cholesterol deposits in the walls of the arteries that restricts the flow of the blood. This can significantly increase the risk of heart disease. Here are some foods you should avoid for a healthy heart.

You diet affects your cholesterol levels and overall heart health

Poor cholesterol levels are dangerous to your health in several ways. It is a threat to your heart health. Cholesterol deposits in the walls of the arteries that restricts the flow of the blood. Poor flow of blood to the heart as well to other parts of the body increases the risk of several diseases especially heart disease. Diet plays a major role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. You need to exclude certain foods from your diet for a healthy heart. Here's a list of foods you should eliminate from your diet to avoid bad cholesterol.

Deep frying is a commonly used cooking method but it is linked with multiple health risks. It is not good for your weight as well as the heart. Consumption of deeply fried foods regularly can increase the levels of bad cholesterol. Also, avoid fast food as much as possible.

Replace fast foods with fibre rich fruits and vegetablesPhoto Credit: iStock

Processed meat is consumed in different forms. It is a high-cholesterol food that should be consumed in moderation. According to a study published in 2017, each additional 50-gram serving of processed meat per day was associated with a 42% higher risk of developing heart disease

Also read:Know Why Your Cholesterol Is High: Best Foods, Lifestyle Tips For Cholesterol By Our Expert

Excess of both salt and sugar is bad for your health. Too much sugar is linked with cholesterol levels. If dessert is your favourite part of the meal, you need to try to skip on some days. Salt consumption is not directly linked with cholesterol levels. But it can put you at a high risk of heart disease as adding more salt to your foods increases blood pressure.

Too much sugar consumption is linked with high cholesterolPhoto Credit: iStock

Some healthy foods can also promote healthy cholesterol levels. Fiber-rich foods (oats, fruits, vegetables and seeds like flaxseeds and chia seeds) and omega-3 rich foods should be added to your diet.

Also read:Know The Link Between Vitamin D Levels And Cholesterol

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Also read:Here's How Peanuts And Chickpeas May Lower Your Cholesterol And Improve Blood Pressure

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Avoid These Foods For Healthy Cholesterol Levels; Know Other Heart Friendly Foods - Doctor NDTV