While India has the maximum number of blind people in the world, most do not know that in more than 85 per cent of the cases, the condition is preventable, said experts on Thursday on World Sight Day. India is home to an estimated 34 million people living with blindness or moderate or severe visual impairment (MSVI). “Nearly 85 per cent of blindness in the world is avoidable which can either be preventable or treatable,” Dr. Rajesh Sinha, professor, Dept. of Ophthalmology, AIIMS New Delhi said. The expert called the need for public awareness so that a majority of people in the society who may become blind due to ignorance maintain their sight for life. “Ocular causes of preventable blindness can be infections, vitamin A deficiency while causes of treatable blindness can be cataract, uncorrected refractive error, diabetic retinopathy,” Sinha said.Also Read: Study finds over 600 different viruses from shower heads, toothbrushes According to the National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey, cataract is the leading cause of blindness, accounting for 66.2 per cent of all cases of blindness in India. Uncorrected refractive errors account for 18.6 per cent, and glaucoma for 6.7 per cent. Other causes of blindness and vision impairment include corneal opacities (0.9 per cent), childhood blindness (1.7 per cent), and diabetic retinopathy (3.3 per cent). “It is important to spread awareness around preventable blindness because more than 85 per cent of the blindness is preventable if only people know how to address them,” said Dr. Ikeda Lal, Senior Cornea, Cataract and Refractory Surgery Specialist, at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital New Delhi. The common reasons for blindness in India include cataract, glaucoma, macular degeneration, uncorrected refractive error, and corneal blindness. Diabetic retinopathy is another very important reason for blindness in India, especially considering the high prevalence of diabetes in the country, Lal said. The experts advocated the need for early screenings to detect eye problems and prevent vision loss.Also Read: Smokeless tobacco, betel nut drive oral cancer cases in India: Lancet This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
11 October,2024 02:49 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSFormer director of Tata Medical Center, Kolkata, Mammen Chandy recalled on Thursday that the legacy of acclaimed industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata was "wanting to give back to society". Ratan Tata, the Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group, passed away at the Breach Candy Hospital following age-related health conditions late on Wednesday. He was 86. Speaking to IANS on his demise, Chandy said there is "no other company in the world where 60 per cent of the stock is owned by the Trust to be given back to society". Recalling an incident that the duo shared, Chandy said that Tata said he "bought Jaguar Land Rover to have access to technology". "I want the same gearbox that is in the Land Rover to be in the trucks we manufacture," Tata said. Chandy said that he appreciated Tata for taking forward the legacy of Jamshedji (who founded the Tata Group) and JRD Tata, former Chairman of the group. On Tata Medical Center, Chandy said that Ratan Tata built a state-of-the-art cancer care center in the country. The demise of the legendary Ratan Tata was mourned around the globe. He was a revered leader and philanthropist, known for his genteel demeanour masking a tough and sharp business acumen. He served as the all-powerful Chairman of Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group, from 1991 till his retirement on December 28, 2012. "Ratan Tata's passion for creating a better world was unparalleled. His generosity and vision for an inclusive and just society have inspired us all. He lived by the values of humility, dignity, compassion, and selfless service," said Poonam Muttreja, Executive Director of Population Foundation of India. The Population Foundation of India was founded by JRD Tata in 1970, while Ratan Tata was the member of its governing board since 1994. Meanwhile, the final rites of Ratan Tata were held with full state honours at the Worli crematorium in Mumbai. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
11 October,2024 12:46 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSShowerheads and toothbrushes in your bathroom are teeming with an extremely diverse collection of viruses -- most of which have never been seen before, warned a study on Wednesday. A team of microbiologists from Northwestern University in the US, identified more than 600 different viruses from samples collected from shower heads and toothbrushes. Surprisingly, no two samples were alike. The good news, the researchers said, is that these viruses do not target people. They target bacteria. The microorganisms collected in the study are bacteriophage, or “phage,” -- a type of virus that infects and replicates inside of bacteria. While little is known about them, phage recently have garnered attention for their potential use in treating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. The previously unknown viruses lurking in our bathrooms could become a treasure trove of materials for exploring those applications, revealed the study published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiomes. “The number of viruses that we found is absolutely wild,” said indoor microbiologist Erica M. Hartmann, from Northwestern, who led the study. “We found many viruses that we know very little about and many others that we have never seen before. It’s amazing how much untapped biodiversity is all around us. And you don’t even have to go far to find it; it’s right under our noses,” Hartmann, an associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at Northwestern. Hartmann used DNA sequencing to examine the viruses living on those same samples, and found “no overlap in virus types between showerheads and toothbrushes”. “We also saw very little overlap between any two samples at all. Each showerhead and each toothbrush is like its own little island. It just underscores the incredible diversity of viruses out there,” Hartmann said. While they found few patterns among all the samples, Hartmann and her team did notice more mycobacteriophage than other types of phage. Mycobacteriophage is known to infect mycobacteria -- a pathogenic species that causes diseases like leprosy, tuberculosis and chronic lung infections. According to Hartmann, researchers may someday harness mycobacteriophage to treat these infections and others. “We could envision taking these mycobacteriophages and using them as a way to clean pathogens out of your plumbing system,” she said. “We want to look at all the functions these viruses might have and figure out how we can use them.” Most microbes ‘will not make us sick’, said Hartmann, asking people to not panic. Instead of grabbing for bleach, people can soak their shower heads in vinegar to remove calcium buildup or simply wash them with plain soap and water, she said, while suggesting regularly replacing toothbrush heads. “Microbes are everywhere, and the vast majority of them will not make us sick,” she said. “The more you attack them with disinfectants, the more they are likely to develop resistance or become more difficult to treat. We should all just embrace them.” This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
10 October,2024 12:31 PM IST | New Delhi | IANS
Citing UNICEF’s Changing Childhood Report 2021, India’s latest Economic Survey stated that 19 per cent of 15 to 24-year-olds in 21 countries self-reported that they often feel depressed or have little interest in doing things. According to the same UNICEF report, 36 per cent of youngsters reported frequently experiencing worry, anxiety or nervousness. In India, NCERT’s Mental Health and Well-being of School Students Survey 2022 showed an increasing prevalence of poor mental health among adolescents, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, with 11 per cent of students reporting feeling anxious, 14 per cent feeling extreme emotion and 43 per cent experiencing mood swings. These numbers point towards a mental health crisis looming over adolescents and young adults in modern society. For the longest time, mental health was a taboo that received neither the attention nor the conversation it deserved. While this social issue persists, the discourse around mental illnesses and challenges has now found a place in more public as well as private spaces. World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10 every year to highlight the importance of mental well-being and create awareness about challenges and solutions. As the world marks this day, mid-day.com speaks to mental health professionals who share why the youth is increasingly distressed and what can be done to navigate the situation. Risk factors of mental health challenges among the youth “The distress among today's youth arises from a complex bundle of multiple factors: academic, social, economic and personal,” says Sohini Rohra, a Mumbai-based counselling psychologist, author and mental health advocate. Dr. Shorouq Motwani, Psychiatrist, Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai, agrees, saying, “The factors causing mental health challenges among youngsters include competitive environment, academic stress, failed relationships, job security and constant worries about the future. These can worsen their mental health leading to stress, depression, anxiety and eating disorders.” While each individual has a unique mental health journey and healing process, experts have noticed some common factors associated with mental health risks among the youth. Also Read: Expert tips to keep your mental and physical health on track post festive season Social media This is the digital age and everyone, especially the youth, is embracing it. Social media has become an indispensable part of life. Its adverse effects on mental health often find mention in the ‘cons’ list of the never-ending debate on its use and benefits. “These days, people tend to spend more time on social media apps instead of socializing,” says Dr. Motwani, adding, “Frequently seeing the glamorous and luxurious lifestyle of others can make them insecure and jealous. They may try to compare their life with what they see on social media and this can worsen their mental health.” Rohra explains further, “Social media sets up unattainable standards of beauty, success and lifestyle, creating a constant comparison and a loss of self-esteem. The illusion of perfection on one side sets up inadequacy on the other.” Highlight other ways in which social media affects the mental health of youngsters, she says, “The stress to get likes, followers and positive validation could trigger anxiety and fear of failure. Cyberbullying remains another serious issue with negative comments and online harassment hurting emotional health and making users feel isolated from the rest of the world.” India’s latest Economic Survey also mentioned ‘doomscrolling’ and ‘cyberbullying’ as key issues concerning the youth’s mental health. Rohra adds, “It can hyper stimulate due to an overload of information creating, fear, anxiety and overthinking about global matters, including politics or climate change.” Academics and career The recent death of a young employee in Pune reportedly due to excessive work pressure brought to the limelight the massive role of the workplace and work environment in maintaining or deteriorating mental health. The theme of World Mental Health Day is also ‘Mental Health at Work’. In today’s highly competitive world, youngsters are often under pressure to excel in academics and build successful careers, which often contributes to stress and anxiety, leading to burnout. “One may exert oneself and put in extra effort to excel at the workplace. Over time, this can affect mental well-being, leading to workplace exhaustion and burnout. Factors like lack of support or guidance from seniors, demanding work expectations and workplace insecurities can make the youth overwhelmed,” states Dr. Motwani. Workplace stress can lead to further issues, not only mentally but also physically. “It may not only affect their mental health but also their physical health in the long run. A toxic workplace can have long-lasting effects on their heart, which can later lead to chronic stress and anxiety,” explains Dr. Motwani. Stating other mental health challenges at the workplace, Rohra says “Stress and anxiety at the workplace arise from heavy workload, tight timelines, constant evaluation and undue expectations. When one feels a lack of control through the job tasks, and growth opportunities are found to be few, it can cause a great deal of frustration and loss of self-esteem. Severe emotional stress leads to workplace bullying, discrimination, and harassment.” The economic uncertainty due to rising costs of living, students' debt and insecurity within the job adds to anxiety about the future. Career-related mental health challenges can be alleviated through organisational change and individual support at the workplace. “Supportive colleagues and proactive mental health policies are of utmost importance in mitigating these challenges. Employers who base their appreciation on open communication, and facilitate resources to ensure proper work-life balance can positively impact the mental wellbeing of their employees,” says Rohra. Also Read: Emotional hangover: What is this new mental health buzzword? Relationship problems Relationships are another major factor influencing the mental health of today’s youth. While the entire world is digitally connected, people are lonelier than ever. “The very people who are most connected through social media are reporting feeling lonely and disconnected. The lack of human touch and physical connection has negative effects on overall well-being. At a personal level, the illusion of connectivity in the digital world has weakened relationship ties and increased loneliness,” comments Rohra. “The maturing mind burdened by intense external pressures may find it difficult to manage relationships. Strained relations among family members, peer pressure issues, and relationship conflicts lead to emotional distress and anxiety,” she adds. One or more of these inter-connected factors can lead to low self-esteem, fear of failure, irrational beliefs of perfectionism, unhealthy relationships and isolation. Such issues require professional mental health support, resilience building and genuine relationships. However, the stigma attached to seeking help holds people back from reaching out for help. Tips to manage mental well-being Personal, social, organisational and policy changes are required to deal with mental health challenges among the youth. These issues need to be dealt with on a grassroots level. For example, in order to alleviate academic pressure, the education system needs to be redesigned in a way that bolsters less competition and more learning. The mindset of social institutions like families also needs to change, prioritising the child’s personal growth over their rank. These systemic changes involve a considerable amount of deliberation and time to deviate from deep-rooted systems and mindsets. However individuals can follow these tips by experts to facilitate mental well-being on a personal level. Dr. Motwani shares the following tips: - Social media is not all that you see. There is more than that is shown to you. What looks fun and glamorous while scrolling often hides real-life challenges. Therefore, it is important to do things that truly make you happy. - If you are going through workplace challenges, you must learn the art of saying no to things or extra work that may not be needed. - Practising mindfulness by indulging in deep breathing exercises, yoga and meditation can help stay calm and make informed decisions in a stressful situation. Rohra suggests the following steps to maintain mental well-being: - It would be helpful to limit the time spent on social media and filter what you do by unfollowing negative or impossible standards. - Mindfulness practices like mindfulness meditation and deep breathing help minimise stress and promote emotional awareness. - Physical exercise via sport or other exercises can contribute importantly to an elevated mood. - Real and meaningful in-person connections with friends and family also develop solid relationships providing essential psychological support. - Confidence is most likely to emanate from realistic goals achieved through breaking down tasks into manageable steps. - Pursuing hobbies that bring joy and practising self-compassion by embracing mistakes can further enhance resilience and promote a positive mindset. - Seeking help from a mental health professional when needed is an important part of the process. Disclaimer: This information does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified mental health expert for personalised guidance.
10 October,2024 12:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainRatan Tata has been a champion for the underprivileged and left an extraordinary legacy in India and the world, said global health leaders as they mourn the demise of the Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group. The legendary industrialist and philanthropist passed away at the Breach Candy Hospital following age-related health conditions late on Wednesday. He was 86. “Deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Ratan Tata - a friend, guide, mentor to many and a champion for the underprivileged,” said Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO Chief Scientist, in a post on X. While offering “prayers and condolences to his family,” she said his “legacy will live on forever”. In a post shared on X, Tata Memorial Hospital called him “a visionary leader with the highest integrity, but also an incredibly compassionate person. Truly a nation builder”. The business tycoon was also a former trustee at the US-based Cornell University “who became the university’s largest international donor – supporting scholarships, research to reduce rural poverty and malnutrition in India, and technology innovation,” the varsity said in a blogpost. “Ratan Tata has left an extraordinary legacy in India, across the world and at Cornell, which he cared about deeply,” said Interim President Michael I. Kotlikoff. Lauding the “quiet demeanour and humility” of Ratan Tata, Kotlikoff said his “generosity and concern for others enabled research and scholarship that improved the education and health of millions of people in India and beyond”. Tata served as the all-powerful Chairman of Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group, from 1991 till his retirement on December 28, 2012. Dr Ishwar Gilada, a Consultant in HIV/STDs, Unison Medicare and Research Centre, Mumbai, shared that there can “neither be any comparison nor replacement” Ratan Tata. Meanwhile, Ratan Tata's family said in an early morning update that his mortal remains will be taken to the NCPA Lawns at around 10.30 a.m. to enable people to pay their last respect and homage to the departed soul. At around 4 pm, his body would embark on the final journey from Nariman Point to the Worli Crematorium prayer hall for the last rites. At the crematorium, the mortal remains, draped in the national flag, will be given a police gun salute and then will be consigned to the flames, said the family. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
10 October,2024 10:41 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSLong working hours, strict deadlines, high-performance expectations, and job insecurity are some of the major issues at the workplace that have recently claimed several ‘young’ lives in India. The need is to develop a healthy workplace that can address these and also help boost productivity, said experts on Wednesday a day ahead of World Mental Health Day. World Mental Health Day is observed every year on October 10 to raise awareness and fight stigma related to mental health issues. The theme this year is ‘Mental Health at Work’. India has recently seen a spate of deaths due to overwhelming pressure and harassment by toxic bosses at the workplace. The latest case involves Bajaj Finance manager who died by suicide, due to workplace harassment. In his suicide note, the 42-year-old Tarun Saxena from Uttar Pradesh's Jhansi said he “did not sleep for 45 days and is under a lot of stress”. On July 21, Anna Sebastian, a 26-year-old CA at audit firm Ernst and Young succumbed to death in Pune due to severe work pressure. Her mother in a heart-wrenching letter to Chairman Rajiv Memani noted that Anna lost her life due to a “backbreaking workload” and “work stress”, in just four months of joining the firm. The list is endless. “Work-life balance is an essential aspect of one’s quality of life. A healthy work environment helps in nurturing a healthier mindset and helps boost the productivity of the individual. Mental health in the workplace is crucial for fostering a positive environment and enhancing productivity,” Dr Sameer Malhotra, Director and Head, Department of Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, said. “An empathic approach at the workplace, positive reinforcement of good work, healthy team dynamics, rational expectations -- all help boost one’s confidence and professional trust. It helps foster a good feeling at work and helps boost the overall productivity of the individual and the organisation. Healthy communication practices and rational allocation of roles and responsibilities help reduce overall stress levels and enhance coping,” he added. A recent survey by ADP India, an online payroll software and HR services firm, showed 76 per cent of workers in India say their work suffers because of stress and 48 per cent think poor mental health impacts their productivity. On the other hand, a healthy workplace prioritises the health, safety, and well-being of its employees. “Work needs to be rewarding in terms of genuine social connectedness, and emotional enrichment in addition to financial benefits. Any work schedule imposed may be detrimental to health if not followed by appropriate relaxation,” Prof Nand Kumar from the Department of Psychiatry at AIIMS, said. The expert noted that chronic negative stress can affect organs of the body and may precipitate related medical conditions. Prof. Pallab Maulik, director of research and program director (mental health) at The George Institute India, told IANS that it is crucial to keep one psychologically healthy. “Stress built over time leads to anxiety and depression and that over time and increased severity can lead to self-harm and suicide. Psychological well-being is needed for oneself, family, and work colleagues. Poor mental health can lead to absence from the job or poor work output which is detrimental for the individual and the job,” he added. So how to overcome stress? Malhotra said no one is immune to psychiatric ailments. It can affect anyone and there is a need to understand the individual with mental health concerns with empathy and learn not to be over-judgmental. He also stressed the need for timely recognition and appropriate psychiatric intervention. Kumar suggested the CALM practice: Connectivity both emotional and social; Activity both physical and mental; Learning new things; Mindfulness; and Simple deep breathing exercises. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
10 October,2024 10:23 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSIndia has the highest number of oral cancer cases among countries in South Asia, driven by increased use of smokeless tobacco products like betel quid with tobacco, gutka, khaini; and areca nut, according to a study on Wednesday. The study led by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and published in The Lancet Oncology journal showed that India logged 83,400 of the 120,200 oral cancer cases globally caused by smokeless tobacco (chewed, sucked, inhaled, applied locally, or ingested) and areca nut (seed of the areca palm) in 2022. The consumption of areca nut (30 per cent) and betel quid with tobacco (28 per cent) were responsible for the most oral cancer cases among women, followed by gutka (21 per cent) and khaini (21 per cent). Among men, it was khaini (47 per cent), gutka (43 per cent), betel quid with tobacco (33 per cent), and areca nut (32 per cent). “Smokeless tobacco and areca nut products are available to consumers in many different forms across the world, but consuming smokeless tobacco and areca nut is linked to multiple diseases, including oral cancer,” said Dr Harriet Rumgay, a scientist in the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC. “We found that more than 120,000 people across the world were diagnosed with oral cancer that could have been caused by using smokeless tobacco or areca nut. Our estimates highlight the burden these products pose on health care and the importance of prevention strategies to reduce consumption of smokeless tobacco and areca nuts,” he added. The IARC study showed that 120,200 of the 389,800 oral cancer cases in 2022 could be caused by smokeless tobacco and areca nut use. This also means that by preventing smokeless tobacco and areca nut use, one-third (31 per cent) of all oral cancer cases could be avoided. Further, more than 95 per cent of all oral cancer cases caused by smokeless tobacco and areca nut use occurred in low- and middle-income countries (115,900 cases). India was followed by Bangladesh (9,700), Pakistan (8,900), China (3,200), Myanmar (1,600), Sri Lanka (1,300), Indonesia (990), and Thailand (785). While "control of tobacco smoking has improved, prevention of smokeless tobacco use has stalled, and areca nut remains largely unregulated,” said Dr. Isabelle Soerjomataram, Deputy Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC. The study called for prioritising smokeless tobacco control, and developing a framework for areca nut prevention which must be integrated into cancer control programmes. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
09 October,2024 04:31 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSConsuming more caffeine, present in coffee, tea, and cocoa may improve heart health in people with lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, according to a study on Wednesday. Patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, are at higher risk of heart attack and stroke. This is both due to the disease and some treatments for them, particularly cortisone derivatives. To date, these patients were given conventional recommendations like quitting smoking, reducing cholesterol, and controlling high blood pressure, the new study published in the journal Rheumatology, added drinking caffeine to the list to boost their heart health. Researchers from Sapienza University of Rome, in Italy, suggested that caffeine, present in coffee, tea, and cocoa, actively helps endothelial progenitor cells, the group of cells that help regenerate the lining of blood vessels and are involved in vascular growth. “The present study is an attempt to provide patients with information on the possible role of diet in controlling the disease,” said the paper’s lead author, Fulvia Ceccarelli. Caffeine not only acts as a stimulant effect on the body but also exerts an anti-inflammatory effect. It is because it binds with the receptors expressed on the surface of immune cells. In the study, the team examined 31 lupus patients who did not have traditional cardiovascular risk factors using a seven-day food questionnaire. After a week, the patient’s blood was measured to check blood vessels’ health. The result revealed that patients who consumed caffeine had better vascular health, as measured through endothelial cells, which form the important inner layer of blood vessels. Ceccarelli called for a longitudinal study to confirm the results and assess the real impact of coffee consumption on the disease course. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
09 October,2024 12:26 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSCases of cardiac arrest have seen a spurt in recent times, but the bigger question is the ability to diagnose and prevent such cases. The surge in rising cases of cardiac and non-communicable ailments has perplexed corporate India as well as the larger medical fraternity. When Swiggy CEO Rohit Kapoor criticised the hustle culture advocating for a healthier approach to life, many youngsters followed him on social media. But, when it comes to practice, Gen-Z and millennials are more likely to follow odd-health practices than follow preventive measures. New and rising medical epidemicRising non-communicable diseases could be one explanation for these deaths. The World Health Organization states that non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung disease, as collectively responsible for 74 per cent of deaths globally. These ailments are attributed as the most challenging lifestyle diseases to tackle in the 21st century. Of the non-communicable diseases, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have seen a rampant increase -- from 25.7 million cases in 1990 to 64 million in 2023. It’s also a baffling trend because data from the World Heart Federation found India accounts for 15 per cent of all diabetes cases worldwide. Also, 40-50 per cent of heart-related ailments are of those below the age of 55. Given the gravity of the situation, one would expect society and young people to adopt healthy practices. Unfortunately, a fast-paced lifestyle, digital practices, and blurring personal and professional lives do not lead to a conducive environment for healthy living. Rising cortisols and burnout syndromeThe constant pressure to excel, and achieve personal and professional goals, succumbing to peer group and societal pressures, and unhealthy eating habits lead to chronic stress and anxiety. This phenomenon contributes to additional cortisol production which in turn aggravates the underlying cardiovascular conditions and NCDs. WHO data as early as 2018 highlights how rising cortisol manifests into not only higher NCD but also endocrine and neurological symptoms. Clinical studies and recent cases point out that high cortisol could cause even loss of DNA. Focus on overall well-beingThe general perception is that ‘since I am young, I am immune to silent killers such as Diabetes, or CVDs’. Unfortunately, non-communicable diseases develop silently over the years. And, poor lifestyle choices practiced in the 20s and 30s set the stage for a health crisis in the future. Young professionals who are caught in the whirlwind of career building, often neglect basic health and work practices. A marked improvement is witnessed in awareness of stress and the role of sugar in diet. But even those who recognize risks associated with junk food, are unable to make the right dietary decisions. Sugar is often a hidden component in many products, including foods marketed as “healthy.” For instance, smoothies, energy bars, flavoured yoghurt, and even some salads contain excessive amounts of sugar, which may exacerbate NCD and stress. The normalisation of high levels of stress is dangerous. Over time, chronic stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, high blood pressure, and inflammation, all of which contribute to the development of heart disease. Mental well-being is also equally critical as physical health, yet it remains a low priority for many young people. Blaming societal pressures or corporate setup may not serve justice, rather one needs to acknowledge the clear problem. A more pragmatic yardstick incorporating physiological and psychological parameters needs to be developed. Young workers clearly need to change their perception of their own health from reactive to preventive. The belief that youth is a shield against serious health conditions is not only misguided but dangerous. Silent killers like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes don’t discriminate by age -- they thrive on neglect. (Dr. Manpreet Sethi is paediatric endocrinologist at Max Hospitals, Delhi NCR. She can be contacted at drmanpreetsethi@gmail.com). This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
09 October,2024 11:48 AM IST | New Delhi | IANS
With the holiday season in full swing, the celebratory mood is in the air. While many devotees fast during Navratri, there is no shortage of tempting food. Whether you are visiting friends and family, or hosting them at home, a delicious spread is synonymous with the festive season. To help you maintain a balanced diet while mindfully indulging in your favourite treats, we’ve asked nutrition experts to share advice on how to navigate the festive season. From including essential nutrients, to using healthier alternatives without compromising on taste, and managing blood sugar levels while fasting, nutritionists share a broad scope of practical tips to help you enjoy the festive season to the fullest while nourishing your body and mind. A balanced diet with essential nutrients “Festive meals can be both indulgent and nutritious if we focus on incorporating essential nutrients,” poses Suvarna Sawant (R.D.), chief dietician, and head of department, clinical nutrition and dietetics at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai. She lists essential nutrients that must be strategically incorporated into your meals this festive season. Antioxidants for overall health They play a key role in protecting the body from oxidative stress and can be added through fruits like pomegranates, berries, and spices like turmeric and cinnamon. These antioxidants help prevent cellular damage and improve overall health. Fibre for preventing overeating Crucial for digestion and keeping you full, fibre preventing overeating during festivals. Whole grains such as barley, ragi, and oats can be added to sweet dishes like ladoos or savoury dishes like chapatis to increase fibre content. Vitamins for skin health Vitamins A, C, and E, are essential for immunity and skin health and can be found in fresh fruits and leafy greens. Adding salads or sides with vegetables like spinach and tomatoes will ensure a good intake of vitamins during festive feasts. Also Read: Navratri 2024: How Garba crosses boundaries and unites the worldHydration is key Moreover, hydration is vital during the festivities, especially when meals tend to be rich and dehydrating. Including water-rich foods like cucumbers and oranges or offering fruit-infused water can help maintain proper hydration. Minerals for muscle function Minerals such as calcium, potassium, and iron are necessary for bone health and muscle function. Ingredients like seeds, nuts, and leafy greens, along with natural sweeteners like jaggery, are great sources of these minerals. Healthy fats help maintain energy Finally, healthy fats can be added through nuts, seeds, and oils like olive oil, which help maintain energy and support brain and heart health. By focusing on these nutrients, festive meals can be delicious and nutritious. Swap sugar for jaggery to make Indian sweets healthier Traditional Indian sweets can also be made healthier by using alternative ingredients without sacrificing flavour, claims Sawant. She explains, “For example, ladoos can be made with whole grains like barley or ragi instead of refined flour, which adds fibre and essential nutrients. Replacing sugar with jaggery not only lowers the glycemic index but also provides minerals like iron. Adding dry fruits such as almonds, cashews, and raisins offers a source of healthy fats and antioxidants, making ladoos a more wholesome treat.” By making simple yet impactful changes, traditional sweets are reimagined to balance tradition and nutrition. The expert elaborates on how another popular festive treat can be made healthier, “Gulab jamun can be baked instead of fried, reducing unhealthy fats. The sugar syrup can be made with less sweetness or natural sweeteners like honey or stevia to reduce excess sugar. Infusing the syrup with flavours like cardamom and rose water can enhance taste while cutting down on sugar. These simple changes help transform traditional sweets into healthier, more nutritious options while still retaining their rich flavour. “ Roast, bake and air-fry your favourite snacks this festive season Unless one is not careful, deep-fried savoury snacks find their way onto our plates quite easily during the festive season. “Deep-fried options like samosas and pakoras can be swapped for healthier alternatives without compromising taste. Air-fried or baked samosas offer a similar crispy texture without the added fat from frying. These can be filled with nutritious ingredients like paneer, sprouts, chana, or corn, making them higher in protein and fibre. Similarly, pakoras can be air-fried or baked using ingredients like spinach, chickpeas, or sweet potatoes, giving them a crunchy texture with added nutritional benefits,” explains Sawant. She also recommends opting for roasted snacks such as roasted chickpeas or masala makhanas (fox nuts). “These are high in protein and fibre while providing a satisfying crunch, perfect for festive celebrations. Whether it’s incorporating healthier ingredients in sweets or choosing air-fried over deep-fried snacks, these small tweaks ensure that you can enjoy the flavours of the festival while still prioritising your health,” concludes Sawant. Tips to mindfully indulge this festive season The festive season often brings with it a temptation to overindulge in delicious treats. While it's okay to enjoy the occasional indulgence, mindful eating can help you savour the flavours without compromising your health. Ananya Bhandare, certified health coach and founder of Jungly Delights shares mindful strategies to help you mindfully indulge: Allow yourself to indulge Don’t restrict yourself because this is the festive season, and you’re meant to enjoy it! Have a positive mindset and accept that you will be indulging instead of feeling guilty while doing it, which can slow down your digestion process. Sneak a healthy snack in I always recommend eating a snack or light meal before attending your festive celebrations. Typically, dinner is served late at these events. Instead of arriving starving to these meals, if you are already a little satisfied, you’re unlikely to overeat and binge on the heavier food. Also, try and balance your plate with the addition of vegetables and protein, along with the other food you’ll be indulging in. This will aid digestion and metabolism. Strike a balance Since it is difficult to restrain yourself when you are hosting or out, it is better to enjoy yourself. But when you are home, try to stick to simple meals without excess oil, sugar and salt. Finally, eat lots of vegetables and stay hydrated. Fibrous vegetables will be good for your gut and ensure a balance with all the other things you’ll be indulging in. This will help your metabolism as well. Also remember to keep sipping water through the day, because festive food and drinks can often leave us feeling dehydrated. Drink creatively and slowly You can choose to drink in moderation, which is key. Instead of overdoing it and feeling awful the next day, try and savour your drinks and consume fewer in number. Also, avoid too many sugary drinks, and try to use cleaner options to add flavour to your drinks instead. Some examples include mint, lemon, cinnamon and even berries. Also Read: Navratri style inspiration: Must-try festive fashion to dazzle this seasonHow to manage blood sugar level fluctuations this Navratri Many devotees fast during Navratri, be it for a single day or the entirety of the period. However, for individuals with diabetes, fasting can present unique challenges due to its potential impact on blood sugar levels. “With careful planning and consideration, they can still participate in the tradition while maintaining stable blood sugar levels. However, diabetics with uncontrolled blood sugar levels should avoid fasting altogether,” cautions Dr. Anu Gaikwad, consultant diabetologist and head of the department, of geriatric medicine at DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pune. She shares careful considerations to follow for fasting diabetics. Modifying eating plan for optimal blood glucose control Including kuttu, rajgiri or sama along with other high-carbohydrate foods in your daily meals can help provide energy sustenance without causing much stress on the blood sugar levels. Energy-requiring and long fasts are difficult, but it’s good to eat fatty and starchy foods like ghee or butter or low-fat plain yogurt. Even paneer and tofu with fibrous vegetables can help and are recommended. Sweets, processed food, soft drinks, fruit juices, and other high-calorie foods that can increase blood sugar rapidly are to be strictly avoided. Fasting approach for diabetics Diabetics should make necessary changes in fasting practices. Instead of skipping meals entirely for extended periods, diabetics can consume smaller, more frequent meals or snacks. This strategy can help manage blood sugar levels more effectively. They need to make sure to take the medical drugs advised by the physician and do not forget to actively track and record sugar level fluctuations, since the trend will be more dynamic during the fast cycle. The importance of staying hydrated To prevent dehydration, a common concern during fasting, it's essential to consume adequate fluids. Sweet beverages and sodas should be avoided, as they can exacerbate blood sugar spikes. Opt for water, herbal teas, or sugar-free electrolyte drinks to maintain hydration without affecting glucose levels. Identifying warning signs Symptoms such as excessive fatigue, dizziness, confusion, and blurred vision may indicate dangerously low or high blood sugar levels. If these occur, it's critical to break the fast immediately and consume something with glucose, like fruit or a glucose tablet, and seek medical assistance if necessary.
09 October,2024 10:33 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalWhile advances in cancer therapies have greatly improved survival rates for breast cancer, new research on Tuesday showed that common treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, may accelerate the biological ageing process in survivors. The study led by a team from the University of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences in the US suggests that the impact of breast cancer treatments on the body is more extensive than previously thought. The findings, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, showed that breast cancer survivors, regardless of the type of treatment received, had significantly increased markers of cellular ageing -- such as DNA damage response, cellular senescence, and inflammatory pathways. These ageing markers increased the risk of earlier onset of fatigue, cognitive decline, frailty, and cardiovascular disease, said the team. The study called for making it crucial to understand the specific pathways involved to better target and manage them. “For the first time, we're showing that the signals we once thought were driven by chemotherapy are also present in women undergoing radiation and surgery,” said study lead author Judith Carroll, Associate Professor of psychiatry and biobehavioral sciences at UCLA. “While we expected to see increased gene expression linked to biological ageing in women who received chemotherapy, we were surprised to find similar changes in those who only underwent radiation or surgery,” she added. In the study, the team conducted a two-year longitudinal study that tracked women undergoing breast cancer treatment before receiving treatment and again following treatment to see how their biological ageing markers evolved. The team tracked the gene expression in their blood cells using RNA sequencing, focusing on markers that signal biological ageing. The data was then analysed using statistical models to help identify ageing-related changes. They found genes that capture cellular senescence (when cells stop dividing but don't die) and the inflammatory signal from these cells which indicated that their immune cells were ageing faster than normal. They also saw increases in genes that are expressed when there is DNA damage. Although chemotherapy did have a slightly different pattern, similar to what others have shown, they also noted changes in women who did not receive chemotherapy, the team said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
08 October,2024 11:17 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSADVERTISEMENT
