New Delhi: Nutritionist Pooja Makhija has mentioned the potential mental health benefits of saffron. Saffron, one of the most expensive spices in the world, has been considered useful as prescribed antidepressants in a standardised saffron extract. According to Makhija, Citing clinical research saffron is effective in treating mild to severe depression without the common adverse effects of medicine, as reported by NDTV.

In a post on Instagram, Makhija explained that the spice contains three natural compounds. Crocin acts as a strong antioxidant, Crocetin supports blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain, while Safranal, promotes calmness and aid mood regulation.

According to Makhija, these substances may have neuroprotective properties and increase the production of neurotransmitters in the brain that are involved for mood regulation. According to a double-blind scientific trial published in the National Library of Medicine, participants who drank 30 mg of saffron extract per day had depressed symptoms similar to those taking fluoxetine (Prozac). There were no side effects recorded during the studies.

She also shared her insights on hormonal changes during this period often lead to symptoms such as headaches, heart palpitations, high cholesterol, hot flashes and hair loss. Around 42 per cent of women in menopause and half of post-menopausal women report experiencing palpitations, she added.

She explained that declining levels of cholesterol-based sex hormones, may trigger the body to produce more cholesterol, raising levels during menopause. Makhija advised women to adopt dietary adjustments, proper hydration and regular exercise to manage these transitions.

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Bengaluru (PTI): Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Tuesday said that he has directed the CID to probe the alleged kidnapping and killing of a real estate businessman from Anekal, whose body was found in neighbouring Tamil Nadu on March 9.

The minister was responding to a question raised by Congress MLA Pradeep Eshwar in the Legislative Assembly during zero hour.

"On the issue raised by the MLA, the police have already taken action. One person has been arrested, and the search is on for others. Based on the initial reports we have got, I have instructed that the case be handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department. The investigation will be done by them," Parameshwara said.

Demanding justice for the deceased's family, Eshwar earlier urged the home minister to hand over the case to the CID. "One person has been arrested and two suspects are still at large. They should be arrested at the earliest," he said.

Gopal alias Gopi was allegedly abducted on Sunday by a gang that intercepted his car near Karpur Gate. The assailants allegedly rammed his car from the rear and forcibly took him away in another car.

He was reportedly taken to a forest area near Denkanikottai in Krishnagiri district in Tamil Nadu, and was attacked by sharp weapons leading to death, police said, adding that the body was found on Monday.

Gopal's family members and relatives had staged a protest outside the Anekal police station, demanding the immediate arrest of all those behind the incident.

The police have arrested Mohan Babu, alleged to be the mastermind behind the crime, even as efforts are being made to nab his two associates who kidnapped Gopal. Business disputes and rivalry are said to be the reasons behind the killing.