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Kidney conditions can be prevented provided that one takes charge of their health actively using Ayurvedic methods. Here are some simple and effective Ayurvedic tips to keep your kidneys healthy.
Stay Hydrated : Proper hydration is key to maintaining healthy kidneys. Drinking an adequate amount of warm water throughout the day helps flush toxins from the body and supports kidney function.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Ayurveda recommends a balanced diet with a focus on fresh, whole foods. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables, and reduce the intake of processed and junk foods. A diet rich in fibre and low in sodium can help prevent kidney conditions.
Manage Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can damage the kidneys over time. Ayurveda emphasizes stress reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises to help manage blood pressure.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity can strain the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney diseases. Ayurvedic practices, such as mindful eating and regular exercise, can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Avoid Overuse of Painkillers: Some over-the-counter painkillers can harm the kidneys if used excessively. Ayurveda suggests using natural remedies and consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner for pain management.
Herbal Support: Ayurvedic herbs like Punarnava, Gokshura, and Varuna are known for their kidney-protective properties. Consult a registered Ayurvedic expert to know how to incorporate these herbs into your daily routine.
Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Overconsumption of alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate the body and put stress on the kidneys. Moderate your intake for better kidney health.
Regular Exercise: Ayurveda recommends regular physical activity to boost overall health. Engaging in yoga or other gentle exercises can enhance circulation and promote kidney function.
Adequate Rest: Proper sleep is vital for overall health. Ensure you get enough rest to allow your body to heal and repair itself, including the kidneys.
By following these Ayurvedic principles, you can take proactive steps to prevent common kidney conditions and promote overall well-being.

The author is the Founder and Director of Karma Ayurveda.

If there is reoccurring illness and fatigue in your family and you also experience similar challenges, then you know that it is time to take charge and concentrate on improving health and overall wellbeing. But at the same time you might want to revisit the quality of food that you and your family are having. Things like stomach infections, diarrhoea, allergic reactions, nausea even diabetes or cardiovascular diseases, might be caused by consuming adulterated food once or continuously. Unknowingly, you might be falling victim of food fraud or food adulteration.

We are all aware that food adulteration and counterfeit food products are quite common, but are we really careful to check if we are becoming a target of it? Unfortunately, food adulteration and selling fake food items is one of the most heinous crimes committed against humans. But at the same time it is take very casually.

89 percent of consumers are aware about the presence of fake products in the market according to a recent study by ASPA (Authentication Solutions Providers’ Association), it also revealed that people believe 25 to 30 percent products in the market are fake. Sadly, 31 percent people (consumers) are willing to buy a product even when they know it is a fake and even food items.

One often comes across products such as ghee, milk, paneer, oil, spices, etc. which are adulterated with harmful and dangerous substances like lead, stone dust, grass paste, cow dung or horse dung, chemicals, etc. There is a flood of adulterated products sold without packaging and on the other hand fake mineral water bottles, fake candies, chips, biscuits, etc. are also commonly available.

Have you ever held a bottle of mineral water in your hand and notice the label and immediately know that it is a copycat product of a famous brand, still you have purchased it and consumed it?

Having these adulterated and fake food items which are made with low quality ingredients or are mixed with harmful substances may sometimes affect the health immediately. In some cases, there might not be an immediate effect but consuming these products over a time could adversely affect the health and wellbeing. These unfit foods could make the body weak against illnesses and lead to serious conditions.

How to avoid falling prey to adulterated and fake food?
Avoid buying open food items and ingredients – choose buying packaged spices, ghee, oil, etc. Open products are easy to mix with other substances and packaging is developed to protect the food inside.
Check the packaging of the product before buying – counterfeiters have become very smart and they develop very close copycat packaging and labels, but they cannot make perfect replicas. Look for difference in the name and spellings or smudged labels, etc. Never buy a product which you think is a fake.

Buy food items from authorised vendor or shops and take the bill for your purchase. A lot of people do not bother taking the bill while purchasing which is wrong. It is important to understand that if the food product you have purchased is faulty and causes illness, then the bill can help in pinning the responsibility on the people involved in selling these dangerous products.
Be careful while buying products online – fake packaged products are often sold online so one should be extremely careful while shopping online. If you are doubtful about the product’s authenticity, then return it and report it.
Check Authenticity of the product before buying – One should be aware that there are ways to know the authenticity of a product before buying it, some brands apply authentication solutions on the packaging of the product. Brands usually implement Phygital solutions (Physical + Digital = Phygital). Look for solutions such as holograms, tamper-evident labels, barcodes, QR Codes, Unique Serial Numbers, etc. that can digitally reveal the authenticity of the product. Invest a few seconds to make sure that the product you are buying is an authentic product and then only purchase it.

Don’t let fake and adulterated food ruin the health and wellbeing of your loved ones and you. Safe shopping.

The author is former the President of ASPA (Authentication Solution Providers’ Association).

The Controversy Surrounding Fish Oil Consumption: Separating Fact from Fiction

The consumption of fish oil, a primary source of omega-3 fatty acids, has once again stirred debate. In 2021, a review published in the journal Circulation raised concerns, linking high fish oil intake to an increased incidence of atrial fibrillation (A-fib), causing irregularities in heart rhythm. However, a recent review in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology contradicted this claim. Determining what to believe amidst these conflicting reports poses a challenge, particularly in understanding the benefits and risks of fish oil consumption, especially in a country like India, the leading nation in South Asia for fish oil demand.

Omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for various bodily functions such as muscle contraction, cell growth, blood clot regulation, and inflammation reduction, cannot be produced by the body and are acquired through food intake. Seafood like herring, mackerel, salmon, trout, and tuna are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids known as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Additionally, nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a different type of omega-3 fatty acid.

While fish oil is prescribed as a medicine to lower elevated triglyceride levels, numerous supplements are available and widely consumed. In the United States, millions take fish oil supplements, as indicated by the National Health Interview Survey. Similarly, India shows significant demand, with the fish oil market worth over USD 37.7 million.

The purported benefits of fish oil, particularly in improving heart health, have been a subject of study, but the evidence remains inconclusive. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) offers cautious guidance, stating that while research suggests a potential reduction in coronary heart disease risk, it remains inconclusive.

Claims regarding infant health, neurodevelopment, rheumatoid arthritis, and even cancer have been explored, yet findings have often been ambiguous or disappointing. Similarly, the effects of fish oil on memory improvement, Alzheimer’s disease, and various other conditions are in preliminary stages with inconclusive results.

However, there are side effects associated with fish oil consumption, ranging from a fishy aftertaste and bad breath to more severe concerns such as increased risk of bleeding and interactions with medications.

Regrettably, research predominantly focuses on fish-derived DHA and EPA rather than ALA from plant foods, potentially influenced by the prevalence of fish consumption in research-conducting countries and commercial interests of fish oil manufacturers eyeing the supplement market.

The scientific evidence regarding the benefits of fish oil remains inconclusive. This prompts a critical question: should one invest in a product with an unproven track record amid emerging controversies? The decision lies with the consumer.

In conclusion, while fish oil holds promise in some areas, its risks and inconclusive benefits suggest a need for cautious consideration before its widespread consumption. As research continues, a balanced understanding of its advantages and potential drawbacks is essential for individuals considering its use.

Prof. Manoj Sharma is Chair of the Social and Behavioral Health Department at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Maneesh Pandeya is a Fulbright Professor and Ph.D. Scholar at Howard University in Washington DC.

In recent years, India has made significant strides in the field of technology, garnering global recognition for its IT prowess and innovation. Yet, amidst the glittering achievements in the digital sphere, there’s an essential aspect of Indian society that requires urgent attention – healthcare. While technological advancements are undoubtedly beneficial, it’s crucial to question whether our nation’s healthcare system is advancing at a pace commensurate with our technological feats. 

India’s healthcare system faces a multitude of challenges. Accessibility and affordability are two major hurdles that have yet to be adequately addressed. The stark reality of these issues became glaringly evident during the unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic when hospitals were overwhelmed, oxygen shortages were widespread, and the death toll was staggering. 

Yet, even before the pandemic’s onslaught, India’s healthcare infrastructure had been under considerable strain. Overcrowded hospitals, a lopsided distribution of healthcare facilities predominantly favouring urban locales, and a pronounced shortage of skilled healthcare staff were long-standing issues. The advent of COVID-19 only served to exacerbate these preexisting challenges, pushing our hospitals to the brink, highlighting the disparities in healthcare accessibility between urban and rural areas, and underscoring the need for bolstering our healthcare workforce.

Moreover, affordability looms as a substantial issue afflicting our healthcare system. High medical costs impose a significant burden on families, often plunging them into financial turmoil. It’s worth noting that the introduction of cutting-edge technologies, rather than alleviating the problem, tends to drive up healthcare expenses. While advanced medical equipment and procedures undoubtedly contribute to modern healthcare, our focus should pivot toward rendering basic healthcare services more economical and accessible.

The paramount concern should revolve around ensuring that every Indian, regardless of their socio-economic status or geographic location, enjoys access to high-quality healthcare services. While technology certainly has a role in improving healthcare delivery, it’s imperative to recognize that not everyone possesses smartphones, internet access, or the literacy required to navigate digital healthcare platforms effectively. Consequently, investments in healthcare must prioritize strengthening the fundamentals – expanding hospital infrastructure, empowering healthcare workers through training, and fortifying essential medical resources.

Government initiatives, such as Ayushman Bharat, represent steps in the right direction, aiming to extend financial protection and healthcare access to millions of Indians. However, this goal demands consistent funding and implementation, coupled with rigorous quality control measures. Furthermore, fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors remains essential to effectively bridge the healthcare gap.

In our pursuit of technological excellence, we must not forget that healthcare is ultimately about people – the patients who rely on the system for their well-being and the dedicated healthcare professionals who tirelessly serve them. It’s about ensuring that no one is denied healthcare due to financial constraints or geographical disparities. Quality assurance, therefore, must be an integral part of our healthcare strategy. Investment in medical education and continuous training for healthcare workers is crucial, as stringent quality control mechanisms should be in place to ensure that patients receive safe and effective treatment.

In conclusion, while technology undoubtedly has a role to play in improving healthcare, it should not overshadow the pressing need for affordable, quality healthcare services for all Indians. India’s healthcare system must focus on strengthening its foundations, expanding access, and ensuring that healthcare remains a basic human right rather than a privilege for the fortunate few. After all, a healthy nation is a prosperous nation, and that prosperity should be the true measure of our success.

(Taruna Maheshwari, CEO at Ajeenkya DY Patil Group)

So today I’ll be talking about air pollution and conjunctivitis. The conjunctiva is actually very protective layer over the eye. It helps lubricate the eye by producing mucus and tears and also contribute to the immune balance of the ice surface. We are faced with high AQI levels and air pollution symptoms of a nonspecific conjunctivitis emerge. These include a foreign body sensation, itching, light sensitivity, burning and redness, especially because of rubbing the eye to relieve the symptoms. This rubbing can induce a secondary bacterial conjunctivitis also because we can transmit infections through this red regular rubbing. Common air contaminants that can cause conjunctivitis include sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter and high ozone levels. To add to this, the chronic dry eye milieu which is produced by high air pollution levels also contributes to the nonspecific conjunctivitis and allergy can also be induced by any of these particles. So patients who already have dryness and already are predisposed to allergies, allergies can have an escalation of this into.

By Dr. Deepali Garg Mathur, Principal Consultant, Eye Care / Ophthalmology, Max Multi Speciality Centre, Panchsheel Park

A silent intruder in our lives, pollution increasingly impacts our environment and, especially, our health. Pollution quietly invades our lives and affects us in ways we might not always understand; therefore, its adverse effects on human well-being are worrisome. Pollution comes in many ways and quietly seeps into our daily lives.

Pollution affects every part of our planet, including the soil beneath our feet, water, and air we breathe. Although we frequently consider trash to be an unpleasant sight or to pollute the surroundings, its effects on health are far more subtle.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has set firm standards for air quality. Unfortunately, nearly 99% of the planet’s population lives with air pollution that surpasses these guidelines. Poor air quality can be harmful to human well-being. There are a variety of respiratory disorders associated with toxins present within the atmosphere, such as bronchitis and asthma, which eventually lead to heart or lung complications over time.

The number of cardiovascular disease deaths owing to environmental variables is higher than the number attributable to behavioural, metabolic, and tobacco use risk factors. Depending on its size, airborne particulate matter dispersed in the air raises the risk of cardiovascular disease. Blood pressure changes, heart attacks, nitrogen oxide (NO2), elemental carbon, and PM2.5 and PM10 have all been connected to these conditions.

There are ways to combat pollution. The following are some tactics:

Sustainable agriculture: Encourage environmental friendly farming methods that minimize the usage of chemical pesticides and fertilizers, thus avoiding contaminating the land and water.

Organic Framing: Promote organic farming practices, which emphasize soil health and reduce the use of chemicals.

Clean Water Sources: To stop waterborne pollution in food, ensure you have access to clean, uncontaminated water sources for drinking and irrigation.

Education and Awareness: Spread knowledge about the dangers of contaminated food and the significance of making wise decisions.

Minimize food waste: to lessen the environmental impact of food production and the pollution it causes.

Sustainable Packaging: To lessen the pollution that single-use plastics produce, promote environmentally friendly packaging.

Reducing pollution at its source and promoting cleaner, more sustainable habits are the two ways we can solve this issue as people, communities, and nations. We can only hope to shield present and future generations from the detrimental effects of pollution if we acknowledge its extensive impact on health. -It’s time for us to take this quiet threat seriously and work together to lessen its negative impacts.

Heart attacks are no longer an ageing disease. As per the Indian Heart Association (IHA), 25% of all heart attacks in Indian men occur under the age of 40. The reported rise in heart attacks, cardiac arrests and other heart ailments is happening at a time when more millennials and Gen Zs, are becoming health conscious. This contradiction on deeper investigation brings out the fact that looking fit and feeling fit on the outside is not a testament or synonymous to being fit. Hence, it becomes all the more necessary to understand and address the risk factors leading to the rise in CVDs and more so of heart attacks among the young adults.

What is a heart attack?
A myocardial infarction (commonly called a heart attack), is an extremely dangerous condition caused by a lack of blood flow to our heart muscle. There is chest discomfort, shortness of breath, hypertension and it requires immediate medical attention. Various factors can lead to blockage of the arteries, which might eventually obstruct the flow of blood to & from the heart.
According to the IHA, heart disease is the number one cause of mortality and a silent epidemic among Indians, claiming nearly three million lives every year. There are many risk factors, modifiable and non-modifiable that predisposes one to heart diseases.
Non-modifiable risk factors:
n Genetic predisposition: Research reveals that we Indians have a higher predisposition to heart disease and develop the ailment about 10 years before our global counterparts.
n Family history: Having a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or hypertension, increases the risk of CVDs.

Modifiable risk factors:

• Sedentary Lifestyle: Spending long hours sitting at desks, watching screens, and not engaging in regular physical activity, has been linked to obesity and increase in heart disease. As per the WHO, 75% adolescents and nearly 40% adults do not do enough physical activity everyday. It is advised to exercise 30min everyday along with being intermittently active to overcome long periods of inactivity.
• Unhealthy Diets: Poor dietary habits, including high consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages and fast food, can lead to obesity, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. We Indians consume high amount of trans fats (from processed foods) which causes an increase in LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and decreases in HDL (good cholesterol), all of which can lead to atherosclerosis and heart disease. A healthy balanced diet which provides all required nutrients in optimal amounts and is low in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats can help reduce heart diseases.
• Smoking and alcohol consumption: Smoking leads to constriction of blood vessels through the build-up of plaque in the arteries and even causes our blood to thicken, which can put you at a high risk of heart disease and heart attacks.
• Stress: Chronic stress can increase inflammation and raise blood pressure and lower HDL cholesterol. It can also promote unhealthy behaviors like overeating, smoking, irregular sleep pattern and inactivity.
• Diabetes: The increasing rates of type 2 diabetes among young Indians are linked to obesity and unhealthy lifestyles, and diabetes can significantly raise the risk of heart disease and heart attacks.
• Lack of awareness: Being unaware about the prevailing condition, access to optimal care and the reluctance or delay in seeking adequate medical attention can lead to late diagnosis and be fatal. Seeking preventive and timely care to manage heart disease can save lives.
• Extensive workout: High-intensity exercises, extensive physical activities and sports are a contributing factor for sudden cardiac arrest or heart attack. It is advisable to undergo a complete cardiac examination before beginning a high-intensity gym program.

Keep this in mind – “With a healthy heart, the beat goes on”.
Five most essential steps to reduce the risk of heart attacks:

• Having a balanced diet
• Regular exercise
• Managing stress with yoga, meditation and good sleep
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Getting regular health check-ups done

Dr. Meghana Pasi, Nutrition Consultant, MyThali, Arogya World

Maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle becomes more crucial as we age. Being active and involved can occasionally be difficult for seniors who have arthritis, a common condition. However, with the right approach and a dash of creativity, arthritis-friendly activities can promote mobility and social engagement in older adults.

Understanding Arthritis
Arthritis is a joint disorder that causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation. It can be especially crippling for seniors, making daily tasks more difficult. But it is important to keep in mind that staying active is one of the best ways to manage arthritis and preserve a high quality of life. The key is to select motion-promoting activities that are kind to the joints. Here are some tips to help seniors’ live life to the fullest.

Arthritis-Friendly Activities
1. Aquatic Exercise: Swimming is excellent options for elderly people with arthritis. With a great full-body workout, water’s buoyancy lessens the impact on joints. Many community centres/ condominiums offer arthritis-friendly water exercise classes, also providing an excellent opportunity for social interaction.
2. Walking Clubs: Walking is a low-impact exercise that can be tailored to suit different fitness levels. Seniors can join walking groups in their neighborhoods to socialise with others who share their interests. Walking not only helps to increase joint flexibility but also encourages social interaction, which lessens feelings of loneliness.
3. Yoga: These gentle exercises help with balance, flexibility, and strength. These mind-body practices have been shown to reduce arthritis symptoms while also promoting relaxation and mental health. Additionally, group classes give seniors a chance to interact and make friends.
4. Gardening: Gardening is a great way to stay active as well as a fun and therapeutic hobby. Seniors can start small with raised beds or potted plants, which are easier on the joints. They can enjoy the outdoors and feel more connected to nature by gardening, which promotes mobility. NEMA maintains a park dedicated to seniors.
5. Art and Craft Workshops: Taking part in creative pursuits like pottery, knitting, or painting can be very fulfilling. These activities offer a fantastic way to socialise as well as mental stimulation. Seniors participate in art or craft workshops conducted at NEMA Centre, where they showcase their skills and pick up new ones.
Seniors can still lead active and fulfilling lives despite arthritis. They can maintain their mobility, ease their pain, and socialize by participating in arthritis-friendly activities. There are many ways to stay active and engaged, from the calming waters of a pool to the friendship of a walking club, the tranquillity of Yoga, or the joy of gardening and making art. Seniors who participate in these activities will live happier, healthier, and more socially active lives as a result of your encouragement.

The author is a Founder of NEMA Eldercare

Ultra-processed meals have mostly taken over many people’s diets in the modern world. Although these foods are quick and easy, they can have adverse cardiometabolic effects. Foods classified as ultra-processed are those with a lot of processing and additives. They frequently have excessive levels of salt, unhealthy fats, and sugar. The consumption of these meals has risen significantly in recent years, and this pattern is linked to several cardiometabolic issues.
A deterioration in nutrient quality can be seen in ultra-processed foods, which are high in salt, sugar, and calories but low in fiber, vitamins, and micronutrients. Because of their flavor, people tend to consume them more, which contributes to health problems linked to having too much salt and sugar.
The degree and type of food processing, including extrusion, moulding, and pre-frying, alter food matrix and texture, impacting digestibility and nutrient bioavailability. Acellular nutrients, reduced chewing, and increased eating rates contribute to overconsumption and health risks. It can also introduce contaminants. This involves the development of potentially harmful substances such as acrolein, furans, acrylamide, industrial trans fatty acids, and advanced glycation end products.
Food additives are frequently used to produce visually appealing, shelf-stable products. These formulations often consume maltodextrin, corn syrup, modified starches, emulsifiers, flavorings, colorants, and sweeteners. The formulation of appealing, long-lasting products involves contact materials, which can influence dietary exposure to contaminants. Packaging materials may introduce bisphenols, phthalates, and mineral oils, potentially transferring them to the packaged food.
Mechanisms in Action:
Insulin Resistance: One of the main risk factors for type 2 diabetes is an ultra-processed food diet.
Alterations to the gut microbiome: These foods may harm the microbiome, which may result in metabolic issues.
Hormonal Imbalances: Eating meals with a high level of processing can mess with the hormones that control hunger and metabolism.
Oxidative stress harms cardiovascular health and may be increased by additives and preservatives.
Modern diets now frequently include ultra-processed foods, although doing so severely impacts cardiometabolic health. The relationship between their use and unfavorable effects is complex. It contains dietary imbalances, high sugar content, harmful fats, and more. Understanding the mechanisms underlying this association highlights the significance of cutting down on ultra-processed food intake for better cardiovascular health. Making thoughtful eating decisions can be a big step toward living a heart-healthier, more conscientious lifestyle.