Research Reveals Blood Sugar's Effect On Wakefulness
WEDNESDAY, May 31, 2006 (HealthDay News) -- Ever notice that hunger can sharpen your senses, while a full, satisfying meal leaves you yearning for a nap? The key to this response is the simple sugar glucose, and British researchers have discovered how it works its neural magic. In experiments with mice, the researchers determined how glucose blocks neurons -- brain cells -- that regulate wakefulness. They found that a class of potassium ion channels made up of proteins in the cell membrane affects the cells' responses by controlling the amount of potassium getting into the cells. Then they wanted to find out how glucose inhibits a particular class of glucose-sensing neurons that produce tiny proteins called orexins, which regulate states of consciousness. Denis Burdakov, a research fellow at the University of Manchester. The findings appear in the June 1 issue of the journal Neuron. Burdakov said it was known that glucose inhibits the activity of orexin neurons; malfunction of these cells can lead to narcolepsy and obesity. In its experiments, Burdakov's team used engineered mice to produce a fluorescent protein only in orexin neurons. This allowed the researchers to isolate the neurons in brain slices from the mice and perform precise biochemical and electrophysiological studies to explore how glucose acted on those neurons. Then the researchers did experiments exposing the neurons to the subtle changes in glucose levels known to occur in daily cycles of hunger and eating. They found that activation of a type of potassium in the membrane of orexin neurons is responsible for glucose's inhibitory action. It seems that the activity of orexin neurons, which regulate appetite and reward feelings, as well as wakefulness, can be controlled by normal, daily changes in brain glucose levels, Burdakov said. The finding may also have implications for designing new drugs that target this potassium channel, Burdakov said.
What Is The Best Blood Pressure Monitor For Me? The modern lifestyle has increased health risks in many. And, basic health procedures, like blood pressure monitoring, have become a necessity in many homes. Essentially, blood pressure monitors give a quick and painless process to monitor heart health and track whether medications are working. Read on if you want to know more about: how do blood pressure monitors work? What is the best blood pressure monitor for me? What Are Blood Pressure Monitors? Nowadays, health consultations have been increasingly done virtually. And with this, many doctors are recommending their patients to check their blood pressure at home. But, what is a blood pressure monitor, and how does it work? A blood pressure monitor, also called a sphygmomanometer, can either be manual or digital. Manual devices will include an inflatable cuff, a rubber squeeze bulb, and a gauge that measures blood pressure. You will need a stethoscope to listen to the pulse of blood pressure through the artery.
The rise (systolic) or fall (diastolic) of pressure will be seen on the gauge as the needle moves around its dial. However, many experts would recommend a digital blood pressure monitor for home use as it is easier to operate. Digital blood sugar health support (published on Simtrepainty) pressure monitors are available for adults, and there are pediatric blood pressure monitors also for children. With digital blood pressure monitors, the user will not need a stethoscope. Like a manual blood pressure device, digital devices also include a cuff. You must get the right fit to avoid incorrect readings. Some digital devices can inflate the cuffs with one push of a button, while others may require you to do it manually. These digital blood pressure monitors would show results on the screen, and the cuff will deflate eventually. A digital wrist blood pressure monitor, on the other hand, is the next best thing for users with large arm sizes or those with disabilities.
Yet, some digital monitors will come with an extra large cuff or purchase one separately. How Is Blood Pressure Measured With Digital Blood Pressure Monitors? Find a comfortable place to sit. Rest and wait for at least five minutes before starting the process. Once rested and ready, gently slide the cuffs around the upper arm or your wrists, depending on what model you have. Press start on the device, and the cuff will be inflated. Sit still and wait as the device gets blood pressure measurements. The cuffs will slowly deflate after, and the monitor will show the readings on the screen. If you need to get another reading, wait at least one minute before repeating the process. How To Read A Blood Pressure Monitor? Blood pressure is measured in mmHg and is expressed in two numbers that read like a fraction. The number on top is called the systolic pressure, and the one below is the diastolic pressure.
The systolic number (top number) represents the pressure in the arteries, while the diastolic number (bottom number) represents blood pressure when the heart muscle is between beats. These results are conveniently reflected in the screen display of your blood pressure monitor. Be mindful of your lifestyle, especially if hypertension runs in your family. Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and continuously monitor your blood pressure to keep you in tune with your body's health status. 1. Know the basics of getting a blood pressure reading. 2. Sit correctly with feet flat on the floor, legs uncrossed, and back supported on the chair. Arms should be also be supported and kept at heart level. 3. Take readings at least 30 minutes after exercise, smoking, or alcohol or caffeine intake. 4. Empty the bladder and rest for at least five minutes before taking your blood pressure. 5. Do not place cuffs on a clothed arm, and make sure it is not too tight.