The Rise of Diseases

Rice water is often thrown away after cooking, but it can be useful in many ways.  It can improve the taste of food help plants grow support healthy hair and skin and even be used for cleaning. Instead of pouring it down the drain try these simple ideas. Add It to Rice Dishes Use leftover rice water when cooking rice based meals. It can add extra flavor and provide a small nutritional boost. Use It in Soups and Broths Mix rice water into homemade soups or broths. It helps make them slightly thicker while improving both taste and texture. Cook Vegetables Steam or boil vegetables in rice water instead of plain water. The vegetables may absorb some of the nutrients and develop a richer flavor. Baking Rice water can be added to recipes such as bread pancakes, or other baked goods. It helps keep them soft and moist. Hair Rinse Rice water contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids. After washing your hair with shampoo and conditioner use rice water as a final rinse. It may help make hair feel smoother and look shinier. Natural Facial Toner Rice water has been used in Asian skincare for generations. Apply it with a cotton pad to help refresh the skin reduce the appearance of irritation and leave your face feeling clean and fresh. Feed Your Plants Dilute rice water with plain water before using it on indoor or outdoor plants. It contains nutrients that may support healthy plant growth. Natural Cleaner Diluted rice water can be used to clean kitchen counters and wash some household items.  Its mild starch and natural compounds may help remove light grease and dirt. Help Protect Plants Spraying diluted rice water around plants may help discourage some garden pests.  While it is not a guaranteed pest control method it can be a simple natural option to try. Instead of wasting leftover rice water give it a second life around your home. It is an easy low cost way to reduce waste and make use of something that is often thrown away.

By Asma Qayyum Digital depression refers to the negative impact of excessive screen time, information overload, and unhealthy social media use on mental health. In today’s digital age, smartphones, social media platforms, and the internet have become an essential part of everyday life. While these technologies help people communicate, learn, and work more efficiently, their excessive use can have serious consequences for mental well-being. Digital depression is a condition in which prolonged use of digital devices and online platforms contributes to feelings of sadness, anxiety, loneliness, emotional exhaustion, and low self-esteem. It is becoming increasingly common, particularly among teenagers and young adults, who spend a significant portion of their day online. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression affects approximately 280 million people worldwide, making it one of the leading causes of disability. Although digital technology is not the sole cause of depression, research shows that excessive screen time and unhealthy social media habits can significantly increase the risk of mental health problems. A 2023 advisory by the U.S. Surgeon General reported that adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media are at a greater risk of developing anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Similarly, DataReportal’s 2024 Global Digital Report found that the average internet user spends approximately 6 hours and 38 minutes online each day, highlighting how deeply digital technology has become integrated into modern life. Several factors contribute to digital depression, including excessive use of social media, constantly comparing one’s life with idealized online images, cyberbullying, online harassment, poor sleep caused by late-night screen use, smartphone and internet addiction, and reduced face-to-face interaction with family and friends. The effects of digital depression can be both psychological and physical. People may experience persistent sadness, anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, headaches, eye strain, fatigue, and reduced productivity. If left unaddressed, these problems can negatively affect academic performance, professional life, and personal relationships. Fortunately, digital depression can be prevented by adopting healthy digital habits. People should limit their daily screen time, avoid using electronic devices before bedtime, take regular breaks from social media, engage in physical exercise, spend more quality time with family and friends, and seek professional help if symptoms persist. Schools and parents should also educate young people about responsible technology use and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between online and offline life. In conclusion, digital technology has transformed modern life by creating countless opportunities for education, communication, business, and innovation. However, when used excessively or without balance, it can seriously affect mental health. By promoting digital awareness, developing healthier online habits, and supporting those experiencing emotional difficulties, society can reduce the impact of digital depression and encourage a healthier relationship with technology.