Multivitamins come in various forms, from traditional tablets and capsules to gummies and powders, catering to different preferences and dietary restrictions. Their portability makes them an ideal travel companion.
Why are Multivitamins Essential for Travellers?
The stress of travelling can cause discomfort like a stiff neck, sore muscles, back pain, and joint aches, which can be quite tiring. Multivitamins can soothe these symptoms besides providing the essential vitamins and minerals that could be deficient in your diet throughout your journey. Besides this, multivitamins can prove beneficial in several other ways:
•Supporting Natural Wellness: Multivitamins are a blend of vitamins and minerals usually found in our food. They are beneficial for bridging nutritional gaps and naturally improving health. One daily multivitamin during travel can serve as a reliable support system, countering the deficiency of essential nutrients induced by changing diets.
•Alleviating Stress: Changing time zones and long flights can disrupt our sleep patterns and leave us fatigued and stressed. B vitamins, particularly B6, B12, and folic acid, play a substantial role in stimulating the nervous system for combatting stress. Including these nutrients in a multivitamin can help travellers manage fatigue and adjust to new time zones more effectively.
•Supporting Healthy Eating on the Go: Irrespective of whether your travel is business-related or for leisure, the challenge of maintaining a healthy diet on the move is undeniable. Sustaining healthy eating habits is typically easier within familiar routines but not while exploring new environments. Thus, consuming health supplements or multivitamins during travel can play a crucial role in balancing irregular meal patterns. Things to Keep in Mind
Different types of travel may require specific nutritional support. For example, an adventure-packed outdoor expedition might demand higher nutrients to support physical endurance, while a business trip could necessitate optimal cognitive function and stress management. Multivitamins to cater to these varying needs, ensuring travellers get the right nutrients for their journeys. However, travellers must consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before choosing a multivitamin. Healthcare practitioners can help identify specific nutrient deficiencies or health concerns and guide travellers in selecting the appropriate multivitamin.
The author is the CEO, Co-Founder, PositiveGems.
Doctor News
Nutritionally Nourishing Traditions: Savouring Classic Delights of Ganesh Chaturthi
One of India’s favorite celebrations, Ganesh Chaturthi, gathers people to celebrate and show their devotion to Lord Ganesha. While the event is known for its delicious sweet and Savory foods, it also presents an opportunity to choose food with awareness. Ganesha has an endless list of his favorite foods. Every year around Ganesh Chaturthi, Hindu households create an incredible spread of dishes for their beloved Lord Vinayak.
•Murmura Jaggery Laddoo is a favorite food of lord Ganesha. This food was so uncontrollable when Kubera invited him for a meal. The lavish meal didn’t satisfy Lord Ganesha, who wanted more to eat. It was said that Lord Shiva proposed offering some puffed rice to him. It was assumed that his appetite was satisfied immediately after that. For this reason, Murmura jaggery laddoo is made and served to Lord Ganesha.
•Ukadichemodak is the healthier form of modak is the ukadichemodak. Rice flour that has been cooked retains more nutrients and has fewer calories. The filling made of coconut and jaggery is an excellent source of fiber and vital mineralsand helps maintain the haemoglobin level.
•Puran Poli made with chana dal, jaggery, and cardamom.Chana dal offers fiber, is a significant source of protein, may lower cholesterol, and includes calcium, zinc, and folate. Sugar, jaggery, and plain flour are sources of carbohydrates.
•Coconut rice has various health advantages and a great flavour. It contains a lot of good fats, especially medium-chain fatty acids, which the body can easily absorb and utilize as fuel.
•Besan Laddoo are made from besan(Chickpea), Sugar , ghee and dryfruits. Besan is rich in complex carbohydrates and has a low glycemic index. Dry fruits are rich in potassium, magnesium, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, and vitamins like vitamins A, D, B6, K1, and E.
•Dry Fruit Ladoo is the either combine crushed or finely chopped nuts with dried fruits and a binder like dates or figs. They give us both vital nutrients and energy.
People with diabetes should be mindful before consuming high-caloric food. Jaggery is healthier than sugar, contains essential minerals like potassium and iron, and has slower digestion, which aids in keeping blood sugar levels checked.
Celebrating tradition and spirituality during Ganesh Chaturthi while eating foods that are good for your health is possible. When prepared carefully, these classic recipes have nutritional benefits and are delicious. We may enjoy the festival delights while feeding our bodies by adopting these time-tested recipes with a contemporary touch.
Dr Anish Desai is MD, Clinical Pharmacologist and Nutraceutical Physician, Founder and CEO, IntelliMed Healthcare
Solutions.
Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, causing progressive cognitive decline, memory loss, and changes in behaviour and personality. Alzheimer’s disease is a brain ailment that gradually impairs thinking and memory abilities as well as the capacity to do even the most basic tasks. Symptoms of the late-onset variety typically begins to show in the majority of patients in their mid-60s. Rarely, early-onset Alzheimer’s strikes between the ages of 30 and 60.
Symptoms:
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease characterized by memory loss, difficulty in planning, decision-making, and problem-solving, as well as mood swings, depression, anxiety, and increased irritability. It can lead to difficulty in locating objects, misplaced items, and disorientation. Personality changes may include withdrawal from social activities and apathy, affecting hobbies and interests.
Causes and Risk Factors:
While the exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not fully understood, several factors have been identified as potential contributors:
Age: Advancing age is the greatest known risk factor. The majority of Alzheimer’s cases occur in individuals aged 65 years and older.
Genetics: Family history can play a role. Certain genes, such as APOE ε4, are associated with a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
Brain Changes: Alzheimer’s is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal protein aggregates in the brain, including beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles.
Cardiovascular Health: Conditions that affect heart health, like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Lifestyle Factors: Lack of physical activity, poor diet, smoking, and limited cognitive stimulation are also considered potential risk factors.
Treatment:
While there is currently no known cure for Alzheimer’s, research suggests that there arecertain steps individuals can take to delay its early onset and promote brain health. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and making certain choices, you can potentially reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Stay Mentally Active: Engaging in mentally stimulating activities can help keep your brain active and sharp. Activities like reading, puzzles, crossword puzzles, chess, and learning new skills or languages can challenge your cognitive abilities and promote brain health. Staying mentally active throughout your life may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Stay Physically Active: Regular physical activity has numerous benefits for brain health. Exercise improves blood flow to the brain, reduces inflammation, and supports the growth of new brain cells. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Activities like walking, swimming, and dancing can be enjoyable ways to stay physically active.
Eat a Brain-Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can support brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, such as salmon and walnuts, have been associated with lower Alzheimer’s risk. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts can also protect brain cells from damage.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to cognitive decline and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or mindfulness can help lower stress levels and support overall brain health.
Get Quality Sleep: A good night’s sleep is essential for cognitive function and memory consolidation. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Establish a regular sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and make your sleeping environment comfortable and conducive to rest.
Stay Socially Engaged: Maintaining social connections and engaging in meaningful relationships can help keep your brain active. Social interactions stimulate cognitive function and may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Join clubs, volunteer, or spend time with friends and family to stay socially engaged.
Manage Chronic Conditions: Certain chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity, have been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Managing these conditions through a healthy lifestyle, medication, and regular check-ups can help reduce your risk.
Stay Mentally Emotionally: Mental and emotional well-being play a crucial role in brain health. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques can help reduce anxiety and depression, which can contribute to cognitive decline.
Challenge Your Brain: Engage in activities that challenge your brain regularly. Try new hobbies, take up a musical instrument, or learn a new language. The more you challenge your mind, the more you can potentially delay cognitive decline.
Seek Professional Advice: If you have concerns about your cognitive health or a family history of Alzheimer’s disease, consider seeking guidance from a healthcare professional. Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in managing the disease’s progression.
In conclusion, delaying the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease involves adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle. By staying mentally and physically active, eating a nutritious diet, managing stress, and maintaining social connections, you can potentially reduce your risk and promote long-term brain health. Remember that these steps can be beneficial not only for your brain but for your overall well-being as well.
The author is the Director & Head of Department-Neurology Sanar International Hospitals.
Meniere’s Disease was first described by Prosper Meniere in 1800s. It is characterized by episodes of giddiness, tinnitus and hearing loss or fullness in the ears. It may be preceded by an aura of twinkling in front of eyes, heaviness in head etc. Each episode typically lasts for few minutes to hours. The symptoms are likely to be worse as the episode progress. The hearing loss slowly becomes permanent. There is never a loss of consciousness. Rarely the giddiness is so sudden that patient may fall down.
Causes
The exact cause of Meniere’s Disease is not known. It is hypothesized that there is an increased fluid collection in the inner ear called Endolymphatic Hydrops. Till the pressure in inner ear is high, patient is symptomatic. Once the pressure reduces, patient improves. All efforts at treatment are made to prevent and treat the increase in inner ear pressure.
Evaluation
During the episodes of giddiness, tinnitus and hearing loss or fullness in the ears, Audiometry shows a low frequency sensorineural hearing loss, VNG and ECoG will be positive for vertigo due to Meniere’s Disease. Between the episodes the results may be normal. MRI Brain and ECG may be advised to rule out brain stroke and heart attack respectively.
Treatments
Commonly prescribed drugs include Betahistidine (VertinTM) and Prochlorperazine (StemtilTM) to control the giddiness. Diamox TM may be prescribed to reduce the collection of fluid in the body. A salt restricted diet is advised. If any other specific trigger is identified, the same is avoided. Low doses of medicines are continued to prevent further episodes. Regular walks and exercise are recommended. Normal day to day activity need not be restricted. Driving, climbing heights or carrying firearms are to be avoided.
Surgery is recommended to people who receive little or no benefit from medicines. Injection of steroid into the middle ear space allows it to slowly seep into inner ear and has shown beneficial effect in many patients. Other surgeries aim to control the production and outflow of inner ear fluid. Patients with severe hearing loss may be advised more radical surgeries.
While Meniere’s Disease is a common cause of giddiness. Every vertigo is not due to Meniere’s Disease. A combination of clinical examination and testing helps in accurate diagnosis. Most episodes can be easily controlled and prevented. Surgery is the last resort in resistant cases.
Everything you should know about Ayurvedic treatment before you go for it
Having stood the test of time, Ayurvedic treatment provides exceptional results in managing and treating different types of disorders holistically. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is one such example of a life-threatening disease that can be effectively managed with Ayurvedic intervention. While an increasing number of people are willing to embrace the Ayurvedic way of life to fight diseases or stay healthy in general, some misconceptions still surround this ancient system of medicine and the way it works. People must be aware of the approach Ayurveda takes so that they can avail the maximum benefit from it.
Ayurveda focuses on your ahara and vihara
The food you consume (ahara) and the lifestyle you have (vihara) play a crucial role in directing the outcome of your treatment. Ayurveda requires that you bid adieu to unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking excessive alcohol as they weaken the immune system and thus make you vulnerable to many infections and diseases. In addition, your body’s circadian rhythm has a lot to do with your overall health. Ayurveda encourages an uninterrupted quality sleep of 6-8 hours to optimize the benefits of the treatment.
Ayurveda is for those with patience
Yes, that is correct and a requirement if you are willing to embrace Ayurveda. The ancient system of medicine does not believe in quick fixes but rather in providing benefits that go a long way in preventing, managing, and treating the disease from the ground up. Observing visible results might take some time as instead of only treating symptoms, Ayurveda tries to address the underlying cause of an illness. For best outcomes, patience and consistency are crucial.
Ayurvedic formulations contain more than just herbs
Many people are under the impression that Ayurvedic formulations contain only herbs. While this may be the case in certain formulations, it is not always true. Oftentimes, Ayurvedic formulations are a concoction of active ingredients and components from animal, mineral, or plant origin.
Ayurveda can be integrated with other medicines
People can avail themselves of the benefits of Ayurveda while also sticking to conventional medicines. However, this has to be in the knowledge of your treating doctor. This is important as the medicines you are taking can interact with the action of other medicines and only a doctor can help you choose the right treatment regimen that has the highest chances of success in your case.
Ayurveda treatment could utilize acupuncture and yoga
Ayurveda believes in curing the imbalances (doshas) of the body. It does so by making use of acupuncture and yoga in addition to diet and medications. These approaches synergistically stimulate the body to flush out toxins, thus healing the body naturally. Body movement through yoga helps the release of hormones called endorphins in the body that reduces stress and relieves pain, thus enhancing the treatment outcome.
Diagnostic tests are needed in Ayurveda as well
As in the allopathic system of medicine, an Ayurvedic doctor would also do some preliminary tests and based on the reports would furnish a diagnosis and then work out the treatment regimen best suited for that individual case. It is important to understand that no two individuals will have the same treatment plan as Ayurveda is personalized medicine. Although Ayurveda uses natural products to cure diseases, self-medication is a definite no as all formulations may not be beneficial to everyone. Therefore, consulting a professional practitioner is a must.
Summing up
Embarking on an Ayurvedic journey calls for the need to know Ayurveda better and decide for yourself if you are ready to embrace the life Ayurveda demands. If you are willing to make a few healthy changes in your diet and lifestyle, you are more than ready to start an Ayurvedic treatment for holistic well-being or treating any condition. One must seek medical help from an experienced registered Ayurvedic medical practitioner only. Ayurveda alone or in combination with conventional medicine can work to contribute to comprehensive care.
The author is Founder & Director of Karma Ayurveda
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is plaque (atherosclerosis) buildup in your leg arteries. This makes it harder for your blood to carry oxygen and nutrients to the tissues in those areas. PAD is a long-term disease, but you can improve it by exercising, eating less fat and giving up tobacco products.
How common is peripheral artery disease?
PAD is common, affecting between 4.1 to 5 crore Indians. Actual numbers are probably higher as most of the times its underdiagnosed disease. In PGIMER, We usually see more than 100 patients OPD everyday suffering with PVD related issues.
How does peripheral artery disease affect body?
The typical symptom of PAD is called claudication, a medical term for pain in your leg that starts with walking or exercise and goes away with rest. The pain occurs because your leg muscles aren’t getting enough oxygen.
The dangers of PAD extend well beyond difficulties in walking. Peripheral artery disease increases the risk of getting a nonhealing sore in your legs or feet. In cases of severe PAD, these sores can turn into areas of dead tissue (gangrene) that can sometimes lead to amputation of toes, foot or leg.
What are the stages of peripheral artery disease?
Healthcare providers can use two different systems — Fontaine and Rutherford — to assign a stage to your PAD. The Fontaine stages, which are simpler, are:
I: Asymptomatic (without symptoms).
IIa: Mild claudication (leg pain during exercise).
IIb: Moderate to severe claudication.
III: Ischemic rest pain (pain in your legs when you’re at rest).
IV: Ulcers or gangrene.
SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES
The first symptom of PAD is usually pain, cramping or discomfort in your legs or buttocks. This happens when you’re walking and goes away when you take rest.
What are the typical symptoms of peripheral artery disease?
A burning or aching pain in your feet and toes while resting, especially at night while lying flat.
Cool skin on your feet.
Redness or other color changes of your skin.
More frequent skin and soft tissue infections in your feet or legs
Toe and foot sores that don’t heal.
Half of the people who have peripheral vascular disease don’t have any symptoms. PAD can build up over a lifetime. Symptoms may not become obvious until later in life. For many people, symptoms won’t appear until their artery narrows by 60% or more.
Talk to a Vascular surgeon if you’re having symptoms of PAD so they can start treatment as soon as possible. Early detection of PAD is imperitive for starting timely treatment to avoid severe complications like a heart attack or stroke.
What are the complications of peripheral artery disease?
Without treatment, people with complicated PAD may need an amputation — the removal of part or all of your foot or leg (rarely your arm), especially in people who also have diabetes.
Because your body’s circulatory system is interconnected, the effects of PAD can extend beyond the affected limb. People with atherosclerosis of their legs often have it in other parts of their bodies.
What is the most common cause of peripheral artery disease?
Atherosclerosis that develops in the arteries of your legs — or, less commonly in your arms — causes peripheral arterial disease. Like atherosclerosis in your heart (coronary) arteries, a collection of fatty plaque in your blood vessel walls causes peripheral vascular disease. As plaque builds up, your blood vessels get narrower and narrower, until they’re blocked.
What are the risk factors for peripheral artery disease?
Tobacco use is the most important risk factor for PAD and its complications. In fact, 80% of people with PAD are people who currently smoke or used to smoke. Tobacco use increases the risk for PAD by 400%. It also brings on PAD symptoms almost 10 years earlier.
Compared with non-smokers of the same age, people who smoke and have PAD are more likely to have heart attack or stroke and have a limb amputation.
Regardless of your sex, you’re at risk of developing peripheral arterial disease when you have one or more of these risk factors:
Using tobacco products (the most potent risk factor).
Having diabetes
Being age 50 and older.
Having a personal or family history of heart or blood vessel disease.
Having high blood pressure (hypertension)
Having high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia).
Having abdominal obesity.
Having a blood clotting disorder.
Having kidney disease (both a risk factor and a consequence of PAD).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS
A vascular surgeon or vascular care provider(interventional radiologist/cardiologist) will perform a physical exam and review your medical history and risk factors. They may order non-invasive tests to help diagnose PAD and determine its severity. If you have a blockage in a blood vessel, these tests can help find it.
Ankle-brachial index (ABI).
Pulse volume recording (PVR).
Vascular ultrasound.
You may also need an invasive test called an angiogram to find artery blockages.
MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT
Can peripheral artery disease be reversed?
Yes. Some studies have shown that you can reverse peripheral vascular disease symptoms with exercise and control of cholesterol and blood pressure.
With early diagnosis, lifestyle changes and treatment, you can stop PAD from getting worse.
Lifestyle changes
Quit using tobacco products- Ask your physian about smoking cessationprograms.
Eat a balanced diet that’s high in fiber and low in cholesterol, fat and sodium. Limit fat to 30% of your total daily calories. Saturated fat should account for no more than 7% of your total calories. Avoid trans fats, including products made with partially hydrogenated and hydrogenated vegetable oils.
Exercise-Start a regular exercise program, such as walking. Walking can help treat PAD. People who walk regularly can increase the distance they’re able to walk before their legs hurt.
Manage other health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol.
LIVING WITH IT
It’s important to take good care of your feet to prevent nonhealing sores. Foot care for people who have PAD includes:
Wearing comfortable, appropriately fitting shoes.
Inspecting your legs and feet daily for blisters, cuts, cracks, scratches or sores. Also check for redness, increased warmth, ingrown toenails, corns and calluses.
Not waiting to treat a minor foot or skin problem.
Keeping your feet clean and well moisturized. (Don’t moisturize an area with an open sore.)
Cutting your toenails after bathing, when they’re soft. Cut them straight across and smooth them with a nail file.
In some cases, your healthcare provider may refer you to a vascular surgeon (foot expert) for specialized foot care – especially if you have diabetes.
When should one see Vascular Surgeon or Vascular Specialist?
Contact your healthcare provider if you:
Get a bad infection in a sore on your foot. The infection can expand into your muscles, tissues, blood and bones. If your infection is severe, you may need to go to the hospital.
Can’t walk around enough to do normal activities.
Have pain in your legs when you’re resting. This is a sign of poor blood flow.
The author is Vascular Surgeon, at PGIMER Chandigarh
There are so many of us Indians who love spicy and oily food, without knowing what it might cause in our bodies. Ulcers are often the result of inadequate presence of the bicarbonate ions in the stomach lining. Hence, on account of inadequate bicarbonate ions to neutralize the H+ ions in the acidic secretions of the gut, stomach acid has the capacity of corroding the stomach lining. This gives rise to ulcers.
These ulcers can be caused by various factors, such as the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, prolonged use of certain medications like NSAIDs, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress.
Irregular meal timings combined with having large meals at a time all play a role in disturbing the functioning of the normal digestive system. Paying proper attention to regularizing meal timings & minding the portion size of meals can help reverse gut disorders such as peptic ulcers.
Incorporating these Indian foods that have shown promise in soothing stomach ulcers, is backed by scientific evidence.
1.Curd, a staple in Indian cuisine, contains probiotics like Lactobacillus that can help promote healthy gut flora. Probiotics have been shown to improve the gut environment, potentially reducing the risk of H. pylori infection, and aiding in ulcer healing.
2.Indian gooseberry,

also known as amla, is a potent source of vitamin C and antioxidants. It has been traditionally used to treat various digestive ailments. Studies suggest that amla’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties contribute to the healing of stomach ulcers.
3.Coriander is a versatile herb used in Indian cuisine. It contains compounds that have been shown to protect the stomach lining from ulcer formation and accelerate the healing process.
4.Coconut water is a refreshing beverage that can provide relief from ulcer-related discomfort. It is alkaline in nature, which can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce irritation on the ulcer site.
5.Honey has antimicrobial properties that may help inhibit the growth of H. pylori, the bacteria associated with some stomach ulcers. Additionally, It has anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce discomfort.
While the aforementioned Indian foods show promise in soothing stomach ulcers, it is essential to remember that individual responses may vary. Consulting a healthcare professional and adhering to prescribed medications is crucial for effective ulcer management. Additionally, avoiding spicy, acidic, and fried foods is recommended to prevent exacerbating ulcer symptoms.
Dr Anish Desai is MD, Clinical Pharmacologist and Nutraceutical Physician, Founder and CEO, IntelliMed Healthcare Solutions.
In many circumstances, whether in a woman, a man, or both spouses, a thorough medical examination can identify important contributory factors that may benefit from treatments and may need to be treated with assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
But in a significant number of cases, no reason for infertility is identified. A recent study done by ‘The Nutrients’, a journal by MDPI published in Harvard Medical School reveals that some of those cases may be related to inflammation. If so, will an anti-inflammatory diet or lifestyle helps in boosting fertility?
Exploring the connection between inflammation and infertility
Numerous diseases, including cancer, stroke, and cardiovascular disease, have been related to chronic inflammation. Despite the fact that its significance in infertility is not entirely known, some research suggests a connection:
• Inflammatory diseases like infection, endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome increase the chance of infertility.
• Systemic (body-wide) inflammation may have an impact on the cervix, uterus, and placenta, affecting fertility.
• IVF-assisted infertile women who followed to an anti-inflammatory diet had greater pregnancy success rates than those who did not.
Q. Could an anti-inflammatory diet improve fertility?
A.It is a real possibility. Dr. Shobha Gupta continued by saying that decade ago, experts noticed that women who followed a fertility diet were more likely to ovulate frequently and become pregnant.
An analysis of several research published in 2022’s Nutrients reveals that adopting an anti-inflammatory diet may help those who are having trouble getting pregnant.
Despite the fact that the trials’ diets were created years apart, they have many things in common.
Although the specific mechanism is unclear, an anti-inflammatory diet may boost the success rates of assisted reproductive techniques like IVF and improve male sperm quality.
The researchers indicated that adopting a healthier diet may even lessen the requirement for invasive, time-consuming, and expensive fertility procedures. More high-quality research is required to support this, though, as the quality of the studies and the consistency of the findings differed.
Q.Will adopting an anti-inflammatory way of living improve fertility?
A. Despite the fascinating nature of new studies, there is little proof that an anti-inflammation strategy can increase fertility. Improved heart health is only one of the numerous advantages of adopting an anti-inflammatory lifestyle, which also includes eating a plant-based diet like the Mediterranean diet.
It’s unclear whether this is a direct result of less inflammation. But there is little to no danger involved in this strategy. It can also supposedly combat disease, according to an abundance of convincing data.
Q. What is an anti-inflammatory lifestyle or way of living?
A. Doctor recommends:
• Adopt a diet that avoids red meat, heavily processed foods, and saturated fats while promoting plant-based meals, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil.
• Quit vaping or smoking.
• Shed extra pounds.
• Engage in some exercise.
• Get adequate rest.
• Manage inflammatory disorders including allergies or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Refrain from consuming alcohol excessively.
• Manage stress.
Conclusion
It’s possible that an anti-inflammatory diet or way of living can aid in infertility. Inflammation may play a significant and unrecognized role in infertility. However, in order to prove this, we need further proof. Until we learn more, it makes sense to take steps to enhance your general health and perhaps lessen chronic inflammation.
Myths and Facts about IVF: Debunking Misconceptions about Fertility Treatment
In vitro fertilization (IVF) has become a ray of hope for couples facing fertility challenges. However, there are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding IVF that can lead to confusion and misinformation. In this article, we will debunk common myths and present the facts about IVF, providing you with accurate information to better understand this effective fertility treatment option.
Myth 1: IVF is the first-line treatment for infertility.
Fact: IVF is not always the initial treatment for infertility. In many cases, couples can explore less invasive and more cost-effective treatments, such as fertility medications, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or lifestyle modifications. IVF is typically recommended when other treatments have been unsuccessful or when specific infertility factors require more advanced intervention.
Myth 2: IVF guarantees a successful pregnancy.
Fact: While IVF has significantly improved pregnancy success rates, it does not guarantee a positive outcome in every case. Success rates depend on various factors, including the age of the woman, the quality of the embryos, and underlying fertility issues. It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that multiple IVF cycles may be necessary to achieve a successful pregnancy.
Myth 3: IVF is only for older women.
Fact: While age can impact IVF success rates, it is not a limiting factor. IVF can benefit women of various age groups, including those with blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, or ovulation disorders. Younger women generally have higher success rates due to better egg quality and ovarian reserve, but IVF can be a viable option for women of all ages.
Myth 4: IVF increases the risk of multiple pregnancies.
Fact: IVF does carry a slightly higher risk of multiple pregnancies compared to natural conception. However, advances in technology and medical protocols have made it possible to reduce this risk significantly. Fertility specialists can carefully monitor and control the number of embryos transferred during IVF to minimize the chance of multiple pregnancies and their associated complications.
Myth 5: IVF is the same for everyone.
Fact: IVF is a personalized treatment that is tailored to each individual or couple’s specific circumstances.
The protocols, medications, and procedures involved in IVF can vary based on factors such as age, underlying fertility issues, and medical history. Fertility specialists assess each case individually and design a customized treatment plan to optimize the chances of success.
Myth 6: IVF always involves genetic manipulation.
Fact: IVF itself does not involve genetic manipulation. However, there is an advanced technique called pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT), which can be performed during IVF. PGT allows the screening of embryos for certain genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities before they are transferred to the uterus. PGT is an optional procedure and is not a mandatory part of IVF.
Myth 7: IVF is extremely painful and risky.
Fact: IVF is generally a well-tolerated procedure with minimal discomfort. The process involves using fertility medications to stimulate egg production, followed by egg retrieval under mild sedation.
Conclusion
Understanding the myths and facts about IVF is crucial for anyone considering or undergoing fertility treatment.Remember, consulting with a qualified fertility specialist is essential to receive personalized guidance and determine the most suitable treatment approach based on your unique circumstances.
Trustworthy information and professional support are key to making informed decisions and increasing your chances of a successful outcome with IVF.
The author is a MD (AIIMS) DSAGE (Germany) and Senior Gynecologist, Laparoscopic Surgeon & Infertility Specialist.
“I want to break the barriers of shame and stigma that surround infertility” – Dr. Malpani
Excerpts
Q: Nowadays, the topic fertility is very common, could u explain what makes you to write book on it?
A: Infertility remains shrouded by innumerable myths and misconceptions in India. Infertile women still continue to suffer from discrimination and ostracism and often pay a high price for their childlessness. This, in turn, contributes to a loss of self-esteem and creates emotional, marital, and economic insecurity in them. They are often very vulnerable and gullible, and they are ready to do anything to have a baby. Because they know so little about infertility and are so desperate to have a baby, many infertility doctors continue to take them for a ride.
I wrote this book for many reasons-
I wanted to break the barriers of shame and stigma that surround infertility and dispel the myths and misconceptions surrounding it. I also wanted to help protect couples who cannot have children and to make sure that they get the right medical care and mental support they need.
I wanted people to know the emotional turmoil and the unspoken grief and suffering that infertile couples go through in their agonizing journey of infertility so that they can be more empathetic and more understanding towards these couples.
I also wanted to let the infertile couples know that they are not alone in this deeply personal journey and thought my stories would offer them solace, and support.
I also wanted to give hope and inspiration through these stories and teach them resilience, unwavering determination, and faith.
Q: What have you learned while writing this book?
A: I have realized that being an IVF specialist is my Ikigai. I have realized how blessed I am to be an IVF specialist because I can create not just babies but create families and change the lives of so many people for the better. I am grateful to God for giving me this opportunity to marry science, art, craft, and compassion to be able to make a difference in so many people’s lives.
I have also realized that the thing that gives me immense joy and happiness in my work is seeing that special smile on an infertile couple’s face when they first find out that their treatment has succeeded. Though I have treated thousands of patients from all over the world and more than 15,000 babies have been born as a result of my treatment, even today after all these years, seeing that special smile on my patients’ faces still fills my heart with indescribable joy.
Reflecting and reminiscing about my patients and their treatments while writing this book has helped me become a better version of myself. This book, if nothing else, has made me a more complete human being, a little wiser, a little more fulfilled, and a lot more grateful than I have ever been in my life.
Q: What suggestion will you give to infertile couples to have children?
A: I would tell them that there is no need to hide the fact that they are having difficulty conceiving, from their close family and friends. Infertility is not a stigma and there is no need to be ashamed of it. It is a medical disorder just like any other medical disorder, like diabetes or heart disease.
I would advise them not to give up hope and to keep on trying because today technology has advanced so much in the field of assisted reproductive technology, that almost any couple can have their dream of having a baby come true.
As fertility declines rapidly over the age of thirty-five and even more so after the age of forty, one should visit a doctor as early as possible if one is having trouble conceiving.
Infertile couples are also very gullible and vulnerable, so I would encourage them to read about infertility and get the right information. This will not only help them make well-informed decisions with their doctor but will also prevent them from being taken for a ride or being cheated.
At the same time, I would tell them not to get stressed, remain positive, and have faith in themselves, in their doctor, and in God.
I would also like to emphasize that there is no need for them to give up trying. There are many options that they can explore, from child-free living to adoption to using advanced reproductive technology. Today, there are multiple ways of having a family, and I want to encourage couples to explore these rather than regret the fact that they wasted their chance to have a family because of preconceived notions.
Every baby is truly a blessing, whether they are conceived in the bedroom or in the IVF lab!