mpox virus (monkeypox)

 mpox virus: signs and symptoms

    The mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) virus is the causative agent of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. Though less severe, it is a member of the same virus family as smallpox. It is mainly spread by intimate, frequently skin-to-skin contact and usually results in a characteristic rash or lesions.

mpox virus: Detailed Explanation

1. What is the Virus?

·         Family: Orthopoxvirus. This genus also includes the variola virus (which causes smallpox), the vaccinia virus (used in the smallpox vaccine), and the cowpox virus.

·         Origin: It was first discovered in 1958 in colonies of research monkeys (hence the original name "monkeypox"). The natural reservoir is believed to be rodents and other small mammals in Central and West Africa.

·         Name Change: In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) began using the term "mpox" to avoid stigmatization and racist language associated with the old name. Both names are currently used.

2. How is it transmitted?

Mpox spreads through close contact with an infected person or animal. The main routes of transmission are

·         Direct Contact: With the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids. This includes intimate contact like kissing, cuddling, or sex.

·         Respiratory Secretions: Through prolonged face-to-face contact (which requires close, sustained proximity, unlike COVID-19, which is more airborne).

·         Contaminated Objects: Touching items (like clothing, bedding, or towels) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids.

·         From Animals to Humans: Through scratches or bites from an infected animal, or by preparing or eating meat from an infected animal.

    One important finding from the global outbreak in 2022 was that the virus primarily spread through sexual networks, with a large proportion of cases among men who have sex with other men. But it's important to realize that mpox can infect anyone who comes into close contact with an infected person.

3. mpox virus: signs and symptoms

After exposure, the incubation period is typically 1-2 weeks but can range from 5 to 21 days. Symptoms occur in two phases:

1.              1 Initial Phase (1-3 days):

o                    Fever

o                    Intense Headache

o                    Muscle Aches and Backache

o                    Swollen Lymph Nodes (this is a key feature that distinguishes it from smallpox)

               Chills and Exhaustion

2    Rash Phase (1-4 days after fever starts):

o    The rash typically begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body, including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. However, in the 2022 outbreak, the rash often started in the genital or perianal area and did not always spread further.

o    The rash evolves sequentially through stages: macules (flat lesions) → papules (raised bumps) → vesicles (fluid-filled blisters) → pustules (pus-filled blisters) → scabs (which eventually fall off).

o    The illness typically lasts for 2-4 weeks.

Important Note: Some people may only get the rash, without the initial flu-like

symptoms.

4. Severity and Risk Groups

    While mpox is generally much milder than smallpox, it can be serious.

·            Most people recover fully without specific treatment.

·             Complications can include secondary skin infections, pneumonia, eye infections, and dehydration.

·         People at higher risk for severe disease include:

o        Newborns, children, and pregnant women.

o        Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., from HIV, cancer treatment, or organ transplants).

o        Those with severe skin conditions like eczema.

5. Prevention and Treatment

·         Prevention:

o    Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like mpox.

o    Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with mpox has used.

o    Practice good hand hygiene.

o    Vaccination: Vaccines developed for smallpox (JYNNEOS in the U.S., Imvanex in Europe) are effective at preventing mpox infection and are recommended for people at high risk of exposure.

       Treatment:

o    There is no specific treatment for mpox itself. Care is "supportive," meaning it focuses on managing symptoms (e.g., pain relief, managing fever, preventing dehydration).

o    In severe cases or for immunocompromised patients, antiviral drugs developed for smallpox (such as tecovirimat or TPOXX) may be recommended.

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Disclaimer: This information is not medical advice; rather, it is meant to be educational. Always abide by the most recent recommendations made by the health authorities in your area.

Note: This blog contains links to affiliate websites, and we may receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made on the affiliate website using such links.

Protein powders

 Protein powders

    Protein powders are dietary supplements made to make it easy for you to consume more protein. Depending on your personal health, the product you select, and how you use it, they may or may not be "harmful." They are not necessary for the majority of people who eat a balanced diet, but they can be helpful in some circumstances.

Here are a few protein powders that have received high marks from numerous expert reviews and testers in 2025 to give you a quick overview:

Product Name	Key Features	Ideal For	Notable Considerations
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate	28g protein/serving; grass-fed; no artificial sweeteners; third-party certified	Overall top pick; those seeking clean ingredients	Pricier than some options
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey	24g protein/serving; blend of isolate, concentrate & hydrolysate; great taste	Most people; widely trusted and popular	Contains artificial sweeteners (Sucralose, Acesulfame K)
Dymatize ISO100	25g hydrolyzed whey protein/serving; easy to digest and absorb; tastes good	Muscle building; fast absorption post-workout	Hydrolyzed whey still contains some lactose
Orgain Organic Protein Powder	21g plant protein/serving (pea, rice, chia); organic; accessible price	Vegans; those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance	Serving size is two scoops; tub depletes faster
Legion Whey+	22g protein/serving; grass-fed; sweetened with stevia; great taste	Those prioritizing taste and natural sweeteners	-
Nutricost Whey Concentrate	25g protein/serving; very affordable	Budget-conscious shoppers	Contains sucralose; not from grass-fed cattle

What Are Protein Powders?

Supplements known as protein powders are created by separating protein from different plant or animal sources.
• Animal-Based Proteins: These consist of the milk-based proteins casein and whey, as well as the protein found in eggs and beef.
• Plant-Based Proteins: Peas, brown rice, soy, hemp, and pumpkin seeds are typical sources.

Typically, they come in three different forms:
• Concentrate: Less processed, with some protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
• Isolate: Processed to eliminate more carbohydrates and fat, increasing the amount of protein in each scoop. preferable for people who are lactose intolerant.
Protein that has been "pre-digested" for quicker absorption is known as hydrolysate (or hydrolyzed).

⚠ Potential Benefits and Risks

Your unique situation will determine whether or not you require a protein powder.

When They Can Be Helpful
Protein powders are a convenient tool in these specific situations:

·         Supporting Muscle Growth and Recovery: Protein supplements can help promote muscle growth if you regularly participate in intense resistance training (such as lifting weights), as long as you are also exercising regularly.

·        Filling Dietary Gaps: They can help people who are on restricted diets, such as vegans, reach their protein goals or older adults who have diminished appetites and find it difficult to consume enough protein.

·         Convenience: A protein shake can be a quick and simple substitute for a whole-food meal or snack when you can't make it.

·         Potential Harms and What to Watch Out For

·         Toxic Contaminants: This is a serious issue. Numerous protein powders have been found to contain detectable levels of pesticides, BPA, and heavy metals (such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium) in independent tests conducted by organizations like Consumer Reports and the Clean Label Project. Lead levels in plant-based powders were frequently found to be higher than those in dairy-based ones.

·         Lack of Regulation: Protein powders fall under the category of dietary supplements rather than foods or medications. This indicates that before they are put on the market, the FDA does not pre-approve them for efficacy or safety. The manufacturer is responsible for ensuring safety.

·         Added Sugars and Calories: Certain powders contain a lot of added sugar, which can cause blood sugar spikes and unintended weight gain. Sometimes a drink can become a high-calorie meal with just one scoop.

·         Digestive Issues: Whey and casein are examples of milk-based powders that can cause stomach discomfort in people with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

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• Colon Cancer Symptoms
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• Heart Problem
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• Chikungunya virus
• weight loss goals
• Diabetes care
• knee Pain Cause
• Knee Pain Treatment
• Prevent Constipation
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• Control Obesity

How to Choose a Safe and Effective Powder

If you decide a protein powder is right for you, here's how to make a smarter choice:

1.     Identify Your Goal: Choose a powder type that matches your needs.

o    For general fitness and muscle building: Because of its complete amino acid profile and quick absorption, whey protein is frequently referred to as the "gold standard."

o    For a vegan or dairy-free diet: Look for a blended plant-based powder (e.g., pea and rice) to ensure you get all essential amino acids.

o    For lactose sensitivity: Whey protein isolate or hydrolysate contains less lactose and may be better tolerated.

2.     Look for Third-Party Certification: The most crucial safety measure is this one. Seek seals from independent testing agencies such as Informed-Choice, Informed-Sport, or NSF International's "Certified for Sport." These certifications confirm the accuracy of the label and indicate that the product has been tested for contaminants and prohibited substances.

3.     Read the Ingredient List: Choose goods with simpler, shorter ingredient lists. Steer clear of those that contain a long list of artificial thickeners, colors, or sweeteners. Watch out for excessive amounts of sugar.

The Bottom Line: Food First

For the majority of people, getting enough protein from whole foods is completely feasible, frequently less expensive, and less dangerous. High-quality protein is found in foods like eggs, Greek yogurt, chicken, fish, legumes, nuts, and seeds, as well as other healthy nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and good fats that aren't found in powders.

    Protein powder shouldn't be used as a primary substitute for a balanced diet, but it can be a helpful supplement if you have increased needs or dietary gaps. Before beginning any supplement regimen, it is imperative to consult your physician or a registered dietician if you have any underlying medical conditions, particularly kidney disease.

Disclaimer: This information is not medical advice; rather, it is meant to be educational. Always abide by the most recent recommendations made by the health authorities in your area.

Note: This blog contains links to affiliate websites, and we may receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made on the affiliate website using such links.