The respiratory system plays a vital role in sustaining life by facilitating the intake of oxygen and the removal of waste gases, primarily carbon dioxide, from the body. This continuous exchange is essential for cellular function and overall health. Anatomically, the respiratory system is divided into two main parts: the
The integumentary system is a complex network that includes the skin, nails, hair, and various glands. Together, these components form the body’s first line of defense, shielding us from harmful pathogens and environmental hazards. Skin is the largest organ in the human body, accounting for approximately 15–20% of
The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body from harmful pathogens and abnormal cells. It is broadly divided into two main types of defences: innate immunity and adaptive immunity. Innate immunity serves as the body’s first line of
The cardiovascular system, made up of the heart and blood vessels, is responsible for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the body’s organs, enabling them to function properly. The heart acts as a muscular pump that keeps blood circulating throughout the body. Blood travels between the heart and lungs via
Inflammation is the body’s natural response in tissues with blood vessels, where immune cells and defense molecules are sent from the bloodstream to areas affected by infection or injury. This process helps eliminate harmful agents and promotes healing. Inflammation can be categorized as either acute or chronic based on
Hormones are chemical messengers produced by specialized glands and secreted into the bloodstream or body fluids. These powerful substances regulate a variety of physiological processes by acting on target cells located far from their site of origin. There are two main types of hormones based on their mechanisms of action.
Stress is a natural reaction, both psychological and physical, to events that the body perceives as threatening or challenging. It can affect everything from your senses and metabolism to your movement, emotions, thinking, immunity, breathing, and blood flow. When we sense or anticipate a threat, three key physiological systems kick
Your kidneys are bean-shaped organs located toward the back of your abdomen. They play a vital role in filtering waste products from your blood and maintaining the proper balance of body fluids. Each kidney contains tiny functional units called nephrons, where blood filtration and reabsorption take place. Here are five
Phosphorus is the body’s second most abundant mineral after calcium. It occurs naturally in a variety of foods and is also available as a dietary supplement. Due to its high reactivity, phosphorus does not exist in its free elemental form on Earth. Most of the body’s phosphorus (about
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Proper hydration is vital for your body to work at its best. Water plays a key role in delivering nutrients to cells, regulating body temperature, keeping joints lubricated, and protecting against infections. Staying hydrated can also enhance sleep quality, mood, and mental clarity. Health experts generally recommend drinking around 2
Vitamins and minerals are crucial nutrients that help seniors maintain good health. They strengthen the immune system, support proper functioning of cells and organs, and promote growth and repair. Vitamins are organic compounds produced by plants or animals, while minerals are inorganic elements sourced from soil and water. Here are
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying oxygen and nutrients to the brain becomes blocked or bursts. This interruption of blood flow damages or destroys brain tissue, which can lead to long-term disability, brain damage, or even death. Symptoms of a stroke can include sudden numbness or weakness, confusion,
The brain is one of the body’s five vital organs, controlling memory, vision, breathing, emotions, and countless other functions. Keeping it healthy is essential. Neurons communicate by sending and receiving electrical and chemical signals, ensuring the brain processes and shares information effectively. Below are five tips to help seniors
Created in 1973 by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, National Nutrition Month encourages everyone to make informed choices about eating habits and physical activity. Below are five simple ways seniors can eat healthier: 1. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Aim for at least five servings a day. Fresh,
Cancer is a disease marked by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. It can develop in nearly any part of the body and is driven by changes in the DNA that regulate cell growth. Cancer cells tend to be invasive, capable of metastasis (spreading to other parts of
The nervous system governs the body's activities and allows it to respond to both internal and external stimuli. It’s made up of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (the nerves that extend throughout the body). As we age, the
Antibiotics are antimicrobial substances naturally produced by bacteria and fungi that serve as one of our most powerful tools against bacterial infections. Their discovery revolutionized medicine, making it possible to safely perform cancer chemotherapy, organ transplants, and complex surgical procedures. Before antibiotics became available, bacterial infections were a leading cause
The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. It affects the nose, throat, and lungs, often leading to symptoms such as fever, runny nose, and sore throat. These symptoms usually appear 1 to 4 days after exposure and can last up to 8 days. Each
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, occurs when the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure varies during the cardiac cycle, which has two main phases: systole and diastole. Systole is when the heart contracts to pump blood out, while
Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a long-term condition marked by high blood glucose (sugar) levels. There are two main types: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body doesn't produce enough insulin. Meanwhile, type 2 happens when the body’s cells don&
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become fragile and prone to fractures. Around 2.3 million Canadians are affected by osteoporosis, and more than 80% of fractures in seniors are attributed to this condition. Risk factors for osteoporosis include aging, the use of glucocorticoid medications, medical conditions that
