The rising threat of amoebae

 Dangerous amoebas spread globally and urgent action is required to be taken

Scientists are warning that a little-known group of microbes called free-living amoebae may pose a growing global health threat. Amoebae, single-celled protists capable of altering their shape and moving via pseudopodia, represent a growing public health threat worldwide. Free-living species such as Naegleria fowleri and Acanthamoeba spp. are of particular concern. Found in soil and water, some species can survive extreme heat, chlorine and even modern water systems, conditions which kill most germs. One infamous example, the “brain-eating amoeba,” can cause deadly infections after contaminated water enters the nose. Even more concerning, these amoebae can act as hiding places for dangerous bacteria and viruses, helping them evade disinfection and spread. Although often overlooked in conventional biosecurity research, these protozoa can survive extreme environmental conditions, including high pH, elevated temperatures and high chlorine concentrations, making them resistant to standard water treatment approaches. Their widespread presence in both natural and engineered environments poses significant exposure risks through contaminated water sources, recreational water activities and drinking water systems. While conventional disinfection methods show limited efficacy, emerging technologies and materials, such as novel chemical systems and piezo-catalytic composites, offer promising avenues for reducing amoeba viability. Nevertheless, a significant gap persists in the early detection and monitoring of these pathogens. Future research should prioritize the development of integrated strategies under the One Health framework, linking human health with environmental and ecological dimensions, while advancing innovative vector control measures to limit transmission. Given the rising global incidence of amoeba-related diseases, there is an urgent need for more proactive public health surveillance and intervention efforts.

A microscopic survivor hiding in our water could be the next public health threat, and climate change is giving it an edge. Environmental and public health researchers are drawing attention to a little-known group of pathogens which may pose a rising global danger: free living amoebae. In a new perspective, the team explains that these microscopic organisms are gaining ground worldwide, driven by climate change, deteriorating water systems and limited monitoring and detection efforts. Amoebae are single celled organisms which naturally occur in soil and water. Most are harmless, but certain species can cause severe and sometimes fatal disease. One of the best-known examples is Naegleria fowleri (often referred to as the brain eating amoeba), which can cause a rare but almost always deadly brain infection. Infection can occur when contaminated water enters the nose during activities like swimming. In recent years, cases of primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a fatal infection caused by the 'brain-eating amoeba' Balamuthia mandrillaris, gained significant attention on Chinese social media following reports of multiple infections among children in several provinces, predominantly linked to water-based recreational activities. In 2025, an outbreak of another 'brain-eating amoeba', Naegleria fowleri, was reported in Kerala, India, resulting in 69 confirmed cases and 19 fatalities, which heightened public concern in the region. As of now, more than 33 countries worldwide have reported approximately 500 cases. While the majority of cases have been reported in the US, Mexico, Australia and India, infections have also been documented across Asia, Africa, Europe and Oceania.

Another pathogenic amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the 'brain-eating amoeba', causes primary amebic meningoencephalitis, which has a case fatality rate exceeding 98%. Due to their significant public health impact, these amoebae have recently been designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as priority pathogens for research and control. The pathogens involved are amoebae, free-living protists which are mostly harmless, while a subset can be lethal. Amoebae are single-celled protists capable of changing shape and moving via pseudopodia, allowing them to inhabit diverse environments such as water and soil. While most amoebae are harmless, some species can cause severe human diseases. For instance, Entamoeba histolytica is a parasitic amoeba responsible for amoebic dysentery, which can lead to severe intestinal and hepatic conditions. This infection remains a significant global health burden, particularly in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to safe drinking water. Scientists urge a coordinated One Health strategy which brings together public health, environmental research and water management. They emphasize the need for better surveillance, faster and more accurate diagnostic tools, and advanced water treatment technologies to reduce risks before infections occur. Amoebae are not just a medical issue or an environmental issue. They sit at the intersection of both, and addressing them requires integrated solutions that protect public health at its source. "What makes these organisms particularly dangerous is their ability to survive conditions that kill many other microbes," said corresponding author Longfei Shu of Sun Yat sen University. "They can tolerate high temperatures, strong disinfectants like chlorine and even live inside water distribution systems that people assume are safe."

Amoebae not only thrive in natural water bodies such as lakes, rivers and ponds, but also in human-made systems like drinking water distribution networks, swimming pools, sewage systems and hot springs. This broad environmental presence increases the risk of human exposure, potentially facilitating disease transmission. Studies have frequently detected amoebae, including pathogenic species, such as Acanthamoeba spp. and N. fowleri, in treated drinking water supplies and recreational waters. Consequently, common activities like swimming are exposure routes. The risks may be further amplified in some regions by specific religious and cultural practices, where rituals such as ceremonial bathing and the use of neti pots for nasal irrigation can serve as significant additional pathways for infection. N. fowleri, which typically inhabits warm freshwater or polluted environments, invades the central nervous system by ascending from the nasal mucosa via the olfactory nerve, ultimately causing the severe inflammation characteristic of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. Similarly, A. castellanii and B. mandrillaris can cause granulomatous amebic encephalitis (GAE) and Balamuthia amoebic encephalitis (BAE), respectively. A. castellanii and B. mandrillaris can invade the human body through breaches in the skin or nasal passages and may subsequently disseminate to the brain, causing severe infections. A. castellanii can infect the cornea and cause amoebic keratitis, a sight-threatening infection primarily associated with contaminated contact lenses which can result in blindness in severe cases. The accurate scale of human exposure to amoebae is likely substantially underestimated. Amoebic infections are prone to clinical misdiagnosis as other diseases, as amoebae in traditional microscopy are easily confused with yeast, macrophages or other artifacts, thereby eliminating the impetus for molecular testing and substantially elevating misdiagnosis rates. Given the ubiquity of amoebae across diverse environments, the actual exposure level is likely far greater than currently recognized. Together with historical diagnostic limitations, these factors indicate a significant burden of undiagnosed and underreported infections, highlighting a considerable underestimation of this public health threat.

The researchers also point out that amoebae can act as protective hosts for other disease-causing microbes. Bacteria and viruses can survive inside amoebae, shielded from disinfection processes which would normally eliminate them. This so called Trojan horse effect allows harmful pathogens to persist and spread through drinking water systems and may also play a role in the rise of antibiotic resistance. In addition to being pathogens themselves, amoebae can significantly influence the fate of other biocontaminants. As one of the oldest microbial predators in nature, amoebae feed on bacteria, fungi and viruses through phagocytosis. While most ingested microbes are eliminated within phagosomes via acidification, oxidation and nutrient deprivation, certain bacteria, which are known as amoeba-resisting bacteria (ARB), can evade or resist these killing mechanisms. These ARBs can survive and replicate within amoebic trophozoites and cysts, eventually being released back into the environment. Notably, ARBs include not only nonpathogenic bacteria but also human pathogens such as Legionella pneumophila, Chlamydia, and Mycobacteria. Mycobacterium tuberculosis and L. pneumophila can not only survive within amoebae but also benefit from enhanced pathogenicity, as amoebae provide protection against disinfection treatments and facilitate their prolonged environmental persistence. Beyond safeguarding fungi such as Cryptococcus neoformans through predation, amoebae also act as hosts for enteric viruses such as coxsackieviruses, human norovirus, and adenovirus, significantly enhancing their environmental persistence. This ability turns amoebae into a 'Trojan horse', facilitating the survival, dissemination, and even the spread of antimicrobial resistance among pathogens in aquatic and soil ecosystems.

In addition, recent studies indicate that amoebae can serve as unexpected reservoirs of biocontaminants, including antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), underscoring their potential role in the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance. For instance, an investigation revealed that Dictyostelium discoideum amoebae collected from the topsoil of a forest park carried substantial levels of both ARGs, encompassing β-lactam, multidrug and aminoglycoside among others, and metal resistance genes (MRGs), including those for elements such as Cu, As, Zn, and Hg. Rising global temperatures are expected to make the problem worse by allowing heat loving amoebae to spread into regions where they were once uncommon. Several recent outbreaks linked to recreational water exposure have already increased public concern in multiple countries. The control of amoebae-related health risks presents significant challenges due to the remarkable resilience of these pathogens, particularly in their cyst forms. Furthermore, evidence suggests that exposure to sublethal chlorine doses may even enhance the virulence of some amoebae, such as A. castellanii, by upregulating the expression of their virulence genes. Besides chemical disinfection, physical barriers such as membrane filtration can be compromised, as amoebae can use ultrafiltration membranes as growth interfaces, thereby contributing to biofouling. In contrast, ultraviolet (UV) disinfection at conventional germicidal wavelengths (e.g., 254 nm) also shows limited effect against resistant cysts.

Given the limitations of traditional methods, advanced oxidation strategies show promising potential for effective inactivation. For instance, the FeP/persulfate system can achieve a 1-log reduction in amoebic spore viability and a more substantial 4-log reduction in the viability of intracellular bacteria housed within the spores. Similarly, a MoS2/rGO composite utilizing piezocatalysis achieved a 4.18-log reduction in amoebic spores and a 5.02-log reduction in intracellular bacteria within 180 min[64]. Another innovative approach, a two-electron water oxidation strategy using BiSbO4 as an anode material, effectively inactivated amoeba spores and their intracellular bacteria, achieving inactivation rates of 99.9% and 99.999%, respectively. Beyond end-point disinfection, source control is also an essential measure. Amoebae are predominantly found in biofilms within distribution pipe networks and point-of-use filters. Therefore, physical removal through pipeline flow velocity adjustment and regular flushing, or chemical intervention, can be employed to address biofilm in distribution networks. The threat posed by amoebae is compounded by environmental changes, particularly climate warming, which is anticipated to expand the geographical distribution of thermophilic species like N. fowleri, potentially increasing incidence in previously unaffected regions. This growing risk is underscored by the increase in fatal cases of primary amebic meningoencephalitis globally. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued guidelines specifically for controlling N. fowleri in drinking-water systems, signaling increased international attention to amoeba-related public health risks and marking a critical step toward a coordinated global response. Ultimately, mitigating the risks from amoebae requires a multi-faceted approach which combines robust water safety plans, encompassing system assessment, operational monitoring and management, with the adoption of advanced inactivation technologies and continued vigilance in the face of environmental change.

Effective mitigation requires comprehensive strategies combining enhanced surveillance, rapid diagnostics and targeted environmental interventions. Key priorities include understanding how global changes, such as climate shift and biodiversity loss, influence the geographic distribution and transmission dynamics of pathogenic amoebae. Genomic tools are critical for pathogen detection and for deciphering mechanisms of environmental adaptation and virulence evolution. Additionally, developing highly sensitive, rapid and quantitative detection methods is essential to establish reliable early warning systems. Despite growing awareness, critical knowledge gaps impede effective risk management and outbreak prevention through following measures:-

While amoebae are known for their general resilience, the effectiveness of disinfection strategies (e.g., chlorine, UV) can vary dramatically between different amoeba species and their life stages (trophozoites vs cysts). There is a significant lack of quantitative, species-specific data on inactivation rates for many pathogenic amoebae. This gap makes it challenging to establish science-based regulatory standards for water treatment which are guaranteed to be effective against all threatening species.

Accelerate genomic studies to uncover virulence factors and ecological drivers of pathogens like N. fowleri, using whole-genome sequencing to track strains and identify targets for interventions. Clarify pathogenic mechanisms, including how amoebae invade the brain via the olfactory nerve and evade immune responses, and explore host-pathogen interactions to pinpoint host factors which increase susceptibility. Integrate environmental and clinical data to guide public health strategies.

For many amoebic infections, especially those affecting the central nervous system, current diagnostic methods are often slow, inaccessible in low-resource settings, and can have high error rates. Furthermore, the prognosis for infections like primary amebic meningoencephalitis and granulomatous amebic encephalitis remains poor, with mortality rates exceeding 97%. There is an urgent need to develop affordable, rapid point-of-care diagnostics and more effective, accessible therapeutic protocols.

Promote interdisciplinary cooperation under the One Health framework by systematically linking environmental microbiology, clinical medicine and public health policy. This integrated approach will bridge preventive control, diagnosis and treatment, forming a closed-loop management system.

The role of amoebae as reservoirs and training grounds for other pathogens is a critical aspect of their public health threat. However, the full spectrum of these interactions across diverse environmental microbiomes and their contribution to the spread of antibiotic resistance genes remains poorly quantified. More research is needed to understand how these 'Trojan horse' dynamics impact the effectiveness of water safety plans and public health outcomes.

The precise ecological and environmental factors which facilitate the emergence and spread of pathogenic amoebae are poorly understood. Research is needed to elucidate how factors like climate change, land-use changes, and shifts in microbial communities affect the abundance and pathogenicity of amoebae in the environment.

Launch targeted public awareness campaigns focusing on high-risk periods like summer and high-risk activities (swimming, diving in warm freshwater lakes, rivers and poorly maintained pools). Key messages should emphasize practical precautions: using nose clips to prevent water from entering, avoiding submersion of the head, and refraining from disturbing sediment in shallow areas. Engaging high-risk groups and healthcare providers can enhance early recognition and reduce exposure.

Establish a coordinated surveillance and data-sharing system which integrates clinical diagnostics, environmental monitoring and wastewater management. This will create an end-to-end monitoring framework covering prevention, detection, diagnosis and source tracing around the world.

How to remove micro plastics from drinking water

 Easy way to remove micro plastics from drinking water   

Tiny fragments of plastic are making their way deep inside our bodies in concerning quantities, particularly through our food and drink. A team tested two types of tap water, hard tap water and soft water. Aside from a discussion of industrial contaminants, the difference between the two is that so-called hard tap water is richer in minerals, particularly calcium carbonate, or limescale. Scientists in China found a simple and effective means of removing them from water. The team ran tests on both soft water and hard tap water (which is richer in minerals). They added in nanoplastics and microplastics before boiling the liquid and then filtering out any precipitates. "Tap water nano/microplastics (NMPs) escaping from centralized water treatment systems are of increasing global concern, because they pose potential health risks to humans via water consumption," the researchers says. In some cases, up to 90 percent of the NMPs were removed by the boiling and filtering process, though the effectiveness varied based on the type of water.

It’s reminiscent of the revolution in sanitation that occurred after tea drinking was introduced into Western Europe. For the first time ever, societies were regularly consuming boiled water which had the added effect of purifying it of pathogens first. Anyone who uses an electric kettle or coffee maker knows that the limescale builds up and needs to be addressed every few months. When the scientists boiled the hard tap water, the pushing out of the calcium carbonate from the water solution effectively trapped a variety of plastic particles ranging from 5 micrometers to 10 micrometers in length. 90% of these components were trapped in the limescale layer. Of course the huge benefit is that most people can do it with what they already have in their kitchen. "This simple boiling water strategy can 'decontaminate' NMPs from household tap water and has the potential for harmlessly alleviating human intake of NMPs through water consumption," says biomedical engineer Zimin Yu from Guangzhou Medical University and colleagues.

This simple boiling water strategy can ‘decontaminate’ [nano and micro plastics] from household tap water and has the potential for harmlessly alleviating human intake of NMPs through water consumption. Even in soft water, where less calcium carbonate is dissolved, roughly a quarter of the plastic was snagged from the water. A greater concentration of NMPs was removed from samples of hard tap water, which naturally forms a buildup of limescale (or calcium carbonate) as it is heated. Commonly seen inside kitchen kettles, the chalky substance forms on the plastic's surface as changes in temperature force the calcium carbonate out of solution, effectively trapping the plastic fragments in a crust. "Our results showed that nano-plastic precipitation efficiency increased with increasing water hardness upon boiling," the team says. "For example, from 34 percent at 80 mg L−1 to 84 percent and 90 percent at 180 and 300 mg L−1 of calcium carbonate, respectively." Even in soft water, where less calcium carbonate is dissolved, roughly a quarter of the NMPs were snagged from the water. Any bits of lime-encrusted plastic could then be removed through a simple filter like the stainless steel mesh used to strain tea, the researchers say.

It was reported that the world may be overestimating the amount of plastic entering the ocean by 3,000%. It also turns out that maybe there’s not such a danger of plastics in the water supply either, since a group of scientists found that simply boiling it first can remove between a quarter and 90% of all the micro plastics therein. Past studies have measured fragments of polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate in potable tap water, which we're consuming daily in varying quantities. This simple boiling water strategy can 'decontaminate' NMPs from household tap water. To put the strategy to the ultimate test, the researchers added even more nano-plastic particles, which were effectively reduced in number. "Drinking boiled water apparently is a viable long-term strategy for reducing global exposure to NMPs," says Yu and team. "Drinking boiled water, however, is often regarded as a local tradition and prevails only in a few regions." Some brands use reverse osmosis or other methods to dissolve the minerals found in tap water. It’s either sold as soft water or ‘mineral water’ after re-adding minerals to it. “Our results have ratified a highly feasible strategy to reduce human NMP exposure and established the foundation for further investigations with a much larger number of samples,” says the researchers.

The scientists hope it might become a more widespread practice as plastics continue to take over the world. Tiny pieces of plastic are an increasingly big problem. Micro plastics originate from clothing, kitchen utensils, personal care products and countless other everyday objects. Their durability makes them persistent in the environment, including in human bodies. Not only are many people on Earth already contaminated by micro plastics, but we're also still being exposed every day, as there is minimal regulation of these insidious specks. Wastewater treatment plants actually do remove a lot of these small particles, the new review indicates, but not enough. While it's still not certain exactly how damaging this plastic is to our bodies, it's clearly not the healthiest of snacks. Plastics have already been linked to changes in the gut microbiome and the body's antibiotic resistance. It’s believed that there is around 7 credit cards worth of plastic circulating in your body. The broad, long-term effects of this contamination are unknown, but they’ve been found in every organ in mice studies, including brain and even the placenta. According to a literature review from The University of Texas at Arlington, a significant portion of our micro plastic exposure may come from drinking water, as wastewater treatment plants are still not effectively removing micro plastics. Roughly 9 billion metric tons of plastic have been produced globally since plastic production began, much of which has progressively degraded into ever-smaller fragments without truly breaking down, forming a fine plastic dust which now pervades the planet.

The team behind this study wants to see more research into how boiled water could keep artificial materials out of our bodies, and perhaps counter some of the alarming effects of micro plastics which are emerging now. "Our results have ratified a highly feasible strategy to reduce human NMP exposure and established the foundation for further investigations with a much larger number of samples," Yu and colleagues conclude.  If you don’t feel like waiting for the government to gather evidence to put restrictions on micro plastics in water, this study offers a key insight. Stick a water filter on your kitchen tap that is graded for 99.99% purity, and if you boil the water that comes out of that, removing 90% of whatever remains, you’re probably quite safe.

7,000 steps a day are good enough to boost health

 To cut health risks, How many daily steps minimum are required

A new study has found that taking how many steps per day is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other health issues. Walking 7,000 steps a day can be enough to boost your brainpower and help protect against a range of different diseases. The researchers hope their findings could shape future public health guidelines. It may be a more realistic target than 10,000 steps, which is often seen as the benchmark to reach. It’s become a wellness mantra: Get your steps in. Ideally, 10,000 every day. The research found that the figure was linked with a reduced risk of serious health issues, including cancer, dementia and heart disease. The findings could encourage more people to track their steps as a practical way to improve their health. "We have this perception we should be doing 10,000 steps a day," says lead author Dr Melody Ding, "but it's not evidence based". Ten thousand steps works out at roughly five miles or eight km's. The precise distance will be different for everyone, varying according to stride length which depends on height, gender and walking speed, with faster walkers tending to take longer strides.

The figure of 10,000 steps can be traced back to a 1960s marketing campaign in Japan. In the run-up to the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, a brand of pedometer was launched called the manpo-kei, which translates as "10,000-step meter". But how many steps do you really need to reap the health benefits? And what exactly does walking do for your body? New research indicates the magic number is about 7,000 daily steps. Reaching that mark is linked to a significantly lower risk of health issues as wide-ranging as dementia, heart disease, depression, type 2 diabetes and cancer. The impact ranged from a 6 % reduction in cancer risk to a 38 % decline for dementia, according to the study, which was published in The Lancet Public Health journal. Getting 7,000 steps per day was also tied to a 28 % lower risk of falls, which can be fatal for older adults.

Dr Ding says this figure was "taken out of context" and became an unofficial guideline, which many fitness trackers and apps continue to recommend. The Lancet study analysed previous research and data on the health and activity of more than 160,000 adults around the world. Compared with those who walked 2,000 steps a day, it found that 7,000 steps was linked to reduced risk of following diseases:-

Cardiovascular disease         down 25%

Cancer                                  down 6%

Dementia                              down 38%

Depression                           down 22%

However, the researchers say some figures could be less accurate than others as they are drawn from only a small number of studies. The findings “debunk the myth that 10,000 steps per day should be the target for optimal health,” Dr Daniel Bailey, a reader in sedentary behaviour and health at Brunel University of London, who was not involved with the study, said. The study’s findings will come as no surprise to those familiar with walking’s benefits for heart health. Walking briskly increases the heart rate, improves circulation, lowers blood pressure and can help people lose weight.

Overall, their review suggests even modest step counts of around 4,000 steps a day are linked to better health compared to very low activity of just 2,000 steps a day. For most health conditions, the benefits tended to level off beyond 7,000 steps although there were additional advantages to walking further for the heart. But the new analysis is the first to explore how getting your steps in can curb the risk of multiple health issues, according to the international research team. The researchers tracked data from more than 160,000 people across 31 studies for the analysis. They found that people with even modest step counts, around 4,000 per day, had better health outcomes than people with very sedentary lives, getting around 2,000 steps per day. The more people walked, the better they fared if they had a condition such as heart disease. But for other health outcomes, the benefits seemed to taper off after about 7,000 steps per day. Average adult could live 5 extra years with more exercise, study shows. “The real-world implications are that people can get health benefits just from small increases in physical activity, such as doing an extra 1,000 steps per day,” Bailey said.

'It's about getting out and about' Jon Stride says he surpasses this benchmark, often hitting 16,000 steps in a day, he feels we shouldn't focus on the numbers. "It's about getting out and about, and the benefits for our mental wellbeing that are tangible but not as easy to quantify as the simple step count." The 64-year-old started walking every day after suffering a heart attack in 2022, inspired by his father-in-law, who had a heart attack at the same age. "I live in a rural town in Dorset, and I usually have a good hour's walk in the mornings. I'm the only person out walking without a dog." Jon said counting his steps on his phone provided a good challenge as well as health benefits: "You get up to a certain level, and you think, well I can keep walking." Counting daily steps has become a popular pastime with fitness trackers. Most exercise guidelines focus on time spent doing physical activity over step counts. The report has some limitations, notably that the findings on cancer and dementia are less certain because the data came from only a few studies. Additionally, some of the included studies did not fully take into account other factors which could influence health outcomes, such as age or frailty.

Even so, the researchers said the findings could be encouraging for people who are not very active, given 7,000 daily steps may be a more realistic goal than the unofficial target of 10,000 steps. 'Weekend warrior' exercise as beneficial as regular workouts in lowering risk of over 200 diseases. World Health Organization says adults should do at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity every week. Dr Ding says this advice can sometimes be difficult for people to understand but the current guidelines still serve an important purpose. "There are people who swim, cycle or have physical disabilities which don't allow them to take steps," she explains. But she says a recommendation on the number of steps people should take could be included as an "addition." Steven Harridge, a professor of human and applied physiology at King's College London who was not involved with the study, said that step counts do not shed much light on the intensity of people’s physical activity, which is also important for wellbeing. Health experts recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or riding a bike, per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise once per week. But Harridge welcomed the findings nonetheless. “This study adds to the body of knowledge that shows physical activity is vitally important for health, and anything that encourages people to be more active is a good thing for both physical and mental health,” Harridge said.

Dr Daniel Bailey, a sedentary behaviour and health expert from Brunel University London, says the study challenges the "myth" that 10,000 steps a day is necessary. While 10,000 steps is a suitable goal for those who are more active, he says aiming for 5,000 to 7,000 could be a "more realistic and achievable target" for others. Dr Andrew Scott, senior lecturer in clinical exercise physiology at the University of Portsmouth, agrees the exact number isn't important. He says "more is always better" and people shouldn't worry too much about hitting a specific target, especially on days when activity is limited. Azeem Majeed, a GP and a professor at Imperial College London, says for older adults or people with chronic health conditions, a lower step count would still be beneficial. Although, he says, "walking generally is quite a low effort activity," people with forms of heart disease, arthritis or chronic lung disease may find it more difficult. But he says even doing household chores "like hovering or gardening," can form part of daily physical activity and benefit people of all age groups. 

368-foot Asteroid racing towards Earth

 NASA warning about 368-Foot Asteroid Racing Towards Earth

NASA has issued an alert about a massive asteroid heading towards earth. A colossal 368-foot asteroid hurtles towards Earth. NASA gives the facts on its trajectory, distance, and velocity. Stay informed about this celestial event as scientists monitor its approach. Prepare for the cosmic spectacle and understand the significance of this close encounter with our planet's orbit. NASA has sounded the alarm on a significant asteroid hurtling towards Earth, dubbed "2015 KJ19." This colossal space rock measures 368 feet (112 meters) in size and races through space at an astonishing speed of 83,175 km's per hour. Dubbed '2015-KJ19' is a space rock measuring a whopping 368 feet (112m) is making its way towards Earth. NASA had issued an alert on this noticeable rock. Asteroids possess enough power to cause a global catastrophe. Another staggering fact about this huge asteroid is that it traveling at a 83,173 km's per hour. This is beyond any one could ever think of. Especially beyond what a normal human can imagine!

Asteroids are usually fragments of rock and stone floating in space. It maybe made up of elements or dust from other planets and might be floating in space for years. When a huge asteroid sets its course towards earth, it possesses a possible threat of mass destruction. If an asteroid that is a size of building makes contact with earth, it is possible that and entire city might get wiped out! It causes a threat to many living beings. However, '2015-KJ19' will from a relatively close distance from earth. It is supposed to cross at a close distance of six million km's from our planet. Though it seems like a extremely wide distance, it is quite close on the larger scale.

Scheduled for its closest approach on 14 May, 2024, at 02:43 UTC, it will pass within approximately 6 million km's of our planet. While seemingly vast to human perception, in the grand scale of space, this distance is merely a hair's breadth. Belonging to the Apollo group of asteroids, notorious for intersecting Earth's path, 2015 KJ19 presents an awe-inspiring spectacle. Estimated to be the size of a building, it captures the imagination of sky watchers worldwide. Despite its impressive speed, there's no cause for alarm as it will maintain a safe distance of 6 million km's during its close encounter, equivalent to 15 times the distance between Earth and the Moon. While 2015 KJ19 falls outside the designated "potentially hazardous" zone, CNEOS relies on a global network of observatories and contributions from amateur astronomers to precisely determine the orbital paths of near-Earth objects. Additionally, powerful observatories like Pan-STARRS and NEOWISE aid in tracking these celestial bodies, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of their movements.

Though '2015-KJ19' looks like a threat to the human kind, there is no need to worry about this asteroid hitting our planet since it will only pass from from extremely close distance. This asteroid belongs the Apollo group of asteroids. Their orbits usually tend to cross paths with Earth. NASA'S Centre Of Near- Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) does an commendable job of tracking asteroids that pass by earth and also those that could be a threat. Thankfully, '2015-KJ19' does not fall under the hazardous category. This asteroid will make it's close approach on 14 May, 02:24 UTC (08:13 am IST). Although the asteroid may be too faint to be visible to the naked eye, astronomy enthusiasts armed with telescopes may have the opportunity to observe it during its close approach. As 2015 KJ19 ventures through space, it serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring wonders of the cosmos and the importance of continued vigilance in monitoring potential impact threats.

Health Benefits of Papaya

  Papaya and its Health Benefits    

Carica papaya is the scientific name of the orange and green fruit known more commonly as papaya. It tastes sweet and has a soft texture that many find appealing. The seeds are also edible, although they’re more bitter than the fruit itself. Papaya, or Carica papaya, is a tropical fruit that represents the third most cultivated tropical crop worldwide. Brazil is the largest papaya producers, though Mexico is the main exporter. Florida and Hawaii are the only states in the US that grow it. Papayas have several health benefits. They’re rich in antioxidants and contain lots of fibre. Papayas grow best in a tropical region where there is plentiful rainfall but little long-term flooding. Freezing temperatures may damage a papaya crop. Papayas are originally from Central America. Indigenous people in that area ate papayas and used them for medicinal purposes. In the 1500s and 1600s, Spanish and Portuguese colonizers brought the seeds to other tropical areas of the globe, including Philippines. Today, Hawaii, the Philippines, Ceylon, Australia and tropical regions in Africa are the top papaya-producing regions. Smaller papaya-farming operations still exist in Central and South America.

Papaya has many different names all over the globe. In Australia, it’s called a pawpaw. In southern Asia, it’s sometimes called a kepaya, lapaya or tapaya. Its name in French is sometimes “figueir des iles,” or fig of the islands. Some Spanish names for papaya include “melon zapote,” “fruta bomba,” or “mamona.” Known for its sweet-tasting flesh and orangish yellow skin, papaya is packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C. It also supports digestion. The seeds are edible and have a spicy, peppery taste. The fruit, stems, leaves and roots of papayas are used to treat everything from constipation and indigestion to wounds, skin rashes and parasites. The enzyme papain is used as a meat tenderizer, beer brewing aid and for treating scars and warts. Incorporating papaya into your meal plan can provide many health benefits. Research suggests that certain compounds in papaya may be able to assist in reducing inflammation, improving, digestion and reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease progression.

Papaya varieties 

You may encounter many varieties of papaya in a market, which includes:-

Bettina

Improved Peterson

Hortus gold

Coorg honeydew

Kapaho solo (also known as puna solo)

Sunnybank

Waimanolo

Higgins

Wilder

Honey gold

Guinea gold

Gut Health

Papayas contain two enzymes, papain and chymopapain. Both enzymes digest proteins, meaning they can help with digestion and reduce inflammation. Papain is an ingredient in some over-the-counter supplements to help with minor upset stomach. Both papain and chymopapain also help reduce inflammation. They may help ease acute pain, like that from burns or bruises, and might help with chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and asthma. Papayas are high in fibre, so they may help promote healthy digestion and lead to satiety (the feeling of fullness), which reduces overeating. The additional fibre adds bulk to stool and helps prevent hemorrhoids (swollen veins around or within the anus and rectum) and diverticular diseases (gastrointestinal, or GI, conditions). Research has demonstrated that high-fibre diets are associated with a reduced risk of certain cancers. Papayas are also 88% water. The combination of water and fibre may keep things moving in your digestive tract. In addition, eating a high-fibre diet has been linked to healthy blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol levels. High-fibre diets contain 25-38 grams of fibre daily, or 14 grams per 1,000 calories.

Potentially protects against some types of Cancer

Lycopene is a natural pigment found in red and orange foods. Tomatoes, watermelon and papaya are good sources of lycopene. Some experts believe that eating more lycopene reduces the risk of prostate cancer, but some research has been inconclusive. However, in other studies, eating a diet high in lycopene along with green tea was found to reduce the risk of prostate cancer significantly. Papaya is rich in lycopene, a pigment called a carotenoid (related to beta-carotene) that gives fruits and vegetables a red colour. Lycopene is an antioxidant with several anti-cancer properties. It can reduce the risk of cancers and slow the growth of tumors. Papaya is also rich in vitamin C. Another study found that women with a family history of breast cancer who took 205 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C from food daily had a 63% lower risk of breast cancer when compared with women with a family history of breast cancer who only got about 70 mg of vitamin C daily. The American Heart Association (AHA) indicates that antioxidants like lycopene in papaya may also reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. The fibre in the fruit may also help lower cholesterol.

Immune system

The vitamin C in payapa also supports immune health. Adequate intakes of vitamin C are important for immune health. It can help fight off illnesses and infections, and it may help with wound healing. Vitamin C might also:-

Help prevent or delay certain cancers and heart disease

Promote healthy aging

Help decrease the length and severity of cold symptoms

One cup of papaya contains 88.3 mg of vitamin C, an amount which helps you achieve (or come very close to achieving) your vitamin C needs for the day. The Daily Value (DV) recommendations are 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men. Eating foods high in vitamin C can help boost your immune system, allowing the body to fight off bacterial and viral illnesses. Papaya has a good amount of this antioxidant. Papaya is also a good source of vitamin A, which is important for a healthy and functional immune system. 

Help in decreasing Progression of Alzheimer's Disease

Research suggests that papaya powder may counteract the effects of oxidative stress and slow the progression of the disease. After receiving the powder for six months, study participants experienced a 40% reduction in a biomarker that shows oxidative damage. Alzheimer's disease is the most common neurodegenerative disorder. It has been linked to oxidative stress, which occurs when free radicals outnumber antioxidants in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, including brain cells. To counteract this effect, researchers are studying the use of fermented papaya powder in slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Papaya extract is much more concentrated than whole papaya. The effects of whole papaya have not been studied in people with Alzheimer's disease. 

Protection against heart disease

Papayas contain high levels of antioxidants such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Diets high in antioxidants may reduce the risk of heart disease. The antioxidants prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. When cholesterol oxidizes, it’s more likely to create blockages that lead to heart disease. Additionally, papaya's high fibre content may reduce the risk of heart disease. High-fibre diets lower cholesterol levels.

Vision and Eye Health

Most people think of carrots when it comes to good sources of beta-carotene and vitamin A. However, papayas are a better source. They have three times more bioavailable beta carotene than both carrots and tomatoes. This is important for vision and eye health, especially since beta-carotene may help slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration.

Reduce Inflammation

One recent review indicates that papaya extracts may protect against inflammation, aging, and chronic diseases by protecting the body against oxidative stress. Free radicals are unstable molecules that may trigger a process that can lead to cell damage. Oxidative stress happens when there are more free radicals in the body but fewer antioxidants available to remove them. It can lead to inflammation and chronic disease. 

Papaya seed benefits

Papaya seeds have traditionally been used as a natural remedy to combat intestinal parasites. Some studies suggest that compounds in papaya seeds may have antiparasitic effects, helping eliminate harmful organisms from the digestive tract. Papaya seeds contain bioactive compounds that may have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may help reduce inflammation in the body and provide relief from inflammatory conditions. Some research also suggests that papaya seeds may have a protective effect on the liver. Certain compounds in the seeds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, might support liver health and function.

Papaya enzyme benefits

Papaya enzymes, particularly papain, are known for their digestive properties. They help break down dietary proteins in the stomach. This can lead to reduced bloating, gas and indigestion. Some skincare products contain papaya enzymes due to their exfoliating properties. Papain helps remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin smoother and more radiant. Applying creams or ointments that contain papaya enzyme is believed to promote wound healing. The enzymes may help remove dead or damaged tissue, aiding in the healing process.

Other papaya benefits include folic acid, which is needed to convert the amino acid homocysteine into less harmful amino acids. (Amino acids are molecules that help make up proteins.) High levels of homocysteine, an amino acid mostly found in meat products, are a risk factor for heart disease. Eating papaya may lower homocysteine levels, reducing this risk factor.

Nutrition

A medium-sized papaya contains more than 200% of the vitamin C you need per day. This vitamin helps reduce the risk of heart disease and boosts the immune system. Papayas are also a good source of:

Folate

Vitamin A

Fiber

Copper

Magnesium

Potassium

Pantothenic acid

Nutrients per serving

Rich in vitamins A and C, papaya is also packed with beneficial nutrients like potassium, beta-carotene, and lycopene. One cup of fresh papaya chunks, cut into one-inch cubes, has just 62 calories and 2.5 grams (g) of fibre. It's also high in water content making it a great choice for anyone looking to incorporate more fruits and vegetables or boost their hydration. Papaya is generally safe to consume, but some people may have allergic reactions. Papaya has natural sugars, so if you need to limit them for any reason, eat an amount that aligns with your health needs. Following is the breakdown of the nutritional profile of papaya:-

Vitamin A: 68.2 micrograms (mcg), or 7% of the Daily Value (DV)

Vitamin C: 88.3 mg, or 98% of the DV

Calories: 62

Fat: 0.4 g

Sodium: 11.6 mg

Carbohydrates: 16 g

Potassium: 263.9 mg, or 5% of the DV

Fibre: 2.5 g

Sugars: 11 g

Lycopene: 2650.6 mcg

Protein: 0.7 g

Folate: 53.7 mcg, or 13% of the DV

Beta carotene: 397.3 mcg

A medium-sized papaya (approximately 275 grams) contains about:

119 calories

1.3 grams of protein

30 grams of carbohydrates

Less than 1 gram of fat

4.7 grams of dietary fiber

21.58 grams of sugar

Risks 

Unripe papaya is unsafe for pregnant people. Some studies have found that the enzyme papain, which is more prevalent in unripened papaya, might poison an unborn baby or cause birth defects. For this reason, make sure you're eating a ripe papaya, or perhaps consider waiting until after the baby is born before adding the fruit to your diet. The papain in unripened papaya can also damage your esophagus whether or not you're pregnant.

For the most part, eating ripe papaya does not cause too many side effects, unless you have allergies. Those who are allergic to latex may experience a reaction to eating papaya. You might also have a food allergy to papaya or experience oral allergy syndrome (OAS) if the fruit cross-pollinates with something you are allergic to. OAS is a reaction that occurs when your mouth and throat come into contact with food like raw fruits and vegetables.

How to pick a good papaya

To select a ripe papaya, look for one that's mostly yellow or orange with just a few green spots. Papayas that are mostly green are not ripe while those with a lot of soft spots or darker shriveled skin are overripe or spoiled. You also can press the papaya's skin to check for ripeness. If it gives just a little bit like a ripe avocado might, it is likely ready to eat. When choosing a papaya, consider when and how you want to eat it. Green papayas are not ripe yet and will not have the characteristic flavour or texture. But unripe papayas are used in some cooked dishes or in certain styles of salads. Papayas with red and orange skin are riper. If you buy unripe papayas and want them to ripen before you eat them, store them at room temperature until ripe.

Tips for Consuming Papaya

Once you're ready to eat the papaya, simply cut it open, scoop out the seeds, and eat the orange interior. The skin and seeds are not poisonous, but most people don't eat them. Papayas are often compared to melons, but they're not as sweet. They also tend to have a softer texture. Following are the some suggestions, if you are interested in adding papaya to your diet:-

Combine diced papaya with mango, jalapeno, red pepper, cilantro, avocado, and lime juice and serve alongside your favourite fish or as part of a taco

Combine diced papaya with mango, jalapeno, red pepper, cilantro, avocado, and lime juice and serve alongside your favourite fish or as part of a taco

Slice the papaya into chunks and eat it alone or with a meal or snack

Make a tropical fruit salad with papaya, mango, pineapple, star fruit and banana

Dice up papaya or use frozen cubes and blend with bananas, Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt, coconut milk, ice cubes and vanilla extract

Use papaya to create a barbecue sauce, a sweet and sour sauce, chutney, spicy marinade, or even a chilled soup

Grill papaya as a side dish or dessert, perhaps topping it with ginger, a drizzle of honey, and whipped cream

If you want to add a little pizazz to your Greek yogurt, consider using papaya as a topping, or try it with whipped cream and nuts

The seeds have a peppery taste, so try them on top of a salad or roast them and eat them as a snack or as a topping to another dish

Blend papaya with coconut cream, vanilla extract, and sugar, then freeze it, or make papaya sorbet or milkshakes

Use a zucchini or banana bread recipe and substitute papaya

Many recipes include papaya, such as:-

Papaya salsa

Papaya jam

Papaya smoothies

Papaya relish

Fruit bowls with papaya

Papaya salads

Papaya smoothie

Ingredients

1 cup ripe papaya (peeled, seeds removed, and cubed)

1 banana (ripe and peeled)

1/2 cup Greek yogurt or your preferred yogurt (plain or vanilla)

1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

1 tablespoon honey or sweetener of choice (optional, adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Ice cubes (as needed)

How to prepare:-

Prepare the papaya:

Peel the papaya, cut it in half, and scoop out the seeds. Cut the papaya into cubes.

Blend the ingredients:

Place the papaya cubes, banana, Greek yogurt, milk, honey (if using), and vanilla extract (if using) in a blender.

Blend until smooth:

Blend the ingredients on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more milk to get it to the right consistency.

Taste and adjust:

Taste the smoothie and adjust the sweetness with more honey if needed. You can also adjust the thickness by adding more milk or ice cubes.

Serve:

Pour the papaya smoothie into glasses. You can add a few ice cubes to keep it chilled. You can also garnish with additional papaya slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Papaya salad

Ingredients:-

1 small green papaya (peeled, seeds removed, and shredded)

2-3 cloves garlic (minced)

2-3 Thai bird's eye chilies (adjust to your spice preference, minced)

1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)

1/4 cup roasted peanuts (coarsely chopped)

2 tablespoons dried shrimp (optional, for added umami flavor)

1-2 tablespoons fish sauce (adjust to taste)

1-2 tablespoons palm sugar or brown sugar (adjust to taste)

Lime wedges (for serving)

How to prepare:-

Prepare the dressing:

In a mortar and pestle, pound the minced garlic and Thai bird's eye chilies together to release their flavours. Or, you can mince them finely with a knife.

Make the dressing:

In a small bowl, combine the pounded garlic and chilies with fish sauce and palm sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Adjust the quantities to achieve a balanced flavor profile, combining salty, sweet, sour, and spicy elements.

Shred the papaya:

Peel the green papaya using a vegetable peeler. Cut it in half and remove the seeds. Grate the papaya using a box grater or a julienne peeler. Place the shredded papaya in a mixing bowl.

Assemble the salad:

Add the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped roasted peanuts, and dried shrimp (if using) to the shredded papaya.

Add the dressing:

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Use salad tongs or clean hands to gently toss and mix everything together, making sure the dressing coats the ingredients evenly.

Adjust flavours:

Taste the salad and adjust the flavours as needed. You can add more fish sauce, sugar, or lime juice to achieve the desired balance of flavours.

Serve:

Transfer the papaya salad to a serving plate. Garnish with additional chopped peanuts. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Conclusion

Papaya is a tropical fruit rich in vitamins A and C as well as other important nutrients like potassium, beta-carotene and lycopene. It's a nutritious choice for any meal plan and it may offer health benefits like reduced inflammation, slowed Alzheimer's progression, healthy digestion, protection against heart disease, boosting your immune system and cancer prevention. Papayas are a sweet fruit and grow in tropical regions. There are also benefits to eating papaya seeds. You can enjoy papayas in many ways, such as in smoothies and salads. Most people can enjoy ripe papaya unless they have allergies, but unripened papaya can be dangerous during pregnancy and harmful to your esophagus. Be sure to choose a ripe papaya and eat it fresh, grilled, in sauces and smoothies, or even baked into bread.