Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is used to make proteins. In the body, tryptophan is converted into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and sleep. It is also converted into melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate the b
A Layman’s Guide to Dementia
Dementia is a term used to describe a group of symptoms associated with a decline in cognitive functioning. It can cause difficulty with simple tasks, confusion, memory loss and difficulty communicating. It is most common in people over 65, but it ca
A Layman’s Guide to Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a skin condition that is characterised by patches of lighter skin that form due to loss of pigment. These patches are caused by the destruction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. Vitiligo can affect any part of the body,
A Layman’s Guide to Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that affects your central nervous system. It is considered an autoimmune disease, which means your body's immune system mistakenly attacks your healthy cells. In the case of MS, the immune system a
A Layman’s Guide to Lupus
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the joints, skin and other organs in the body. It is a systemic disease, meaning it affects the whole body. It can cause a wide range of symptoms, such as fatigue, joint pain, swelli
A Layman’s Guide to Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the joints and other body systems. It is caused when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, leading to swelling, pain and stiffness. This inflamm
A Layman’s Guide to Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes red, inflamed, scaly patches on the skin. It is caused by an overproduction of skin cells that accumulate on the surface of the skin, resulting in patches of raised, red skin with silvery
Caffeine Sensitivity
Caffeine sensitivity is a term used to describe an individual's unique reaction to caffeine. Everyone metabolises caffeine differently, and some people are more sensitive to its effects than others. It can vary from person to person, but it typical
A Layman’s Guide to Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin found in a variety of foods, including meats, fish, eggs, legumes and certain fruits and vegetables. It plays an important role in many of the body's metabolic processes, helping
Pellagra: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
Pellagra is a condition caused by a deficiency of niacin, a B vitamin. It is called systemic disease, meaning it can affect your entire body. It is characterised by a set of symptoms known as the “3 Ds”: dermatitis, diarrhea and dementia. Without e