Abhishek Shankar

Yoga and health are intricately connected, and the practice of yoga is known to offer numerous physical, mental, and emotional health benefits. Here are some ways in which yoga contributes to overall health:

Physical Fitness:
Flexibility: Yoga involves a variety of poses that improve flexibility, promoting better range of motion in joints and reducing the risk of injury.
Strength: Many yoga poses require the engagement of various muscle groups, contributing to overall strength and toning.
Balance: The practice of balancing poses in yoga helps improve stability and coordination.

Stress Reduction:
Yoga incorporates relaxation techniques, deep breathing, and meditation, which can significantly reduce stress levels.
Mindfulness practices in yoga promote a calm and focused mind, contributing to overall mental well-being.

Improved Posture:
Yoga encourages awareness of body alignment and posture, helping to correct and maintain a healthy posture.
Strengthening core muscles through yoga contributes to better spinal support.

Cardiovascular Health:
Certain styles of yoga, such as Vinyasa and Power Yoga, involve continuous movement and can provide cardiovascular benefits.
Controlled breathing in yoga can positively impact heart health and blood circulation.

Pain Management:
Yoga is often used as a complementary therapy for managing chronic pain conditions, such as back pain and arthritis.
Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises in yoga can alleviate muscle tension and reduce pain.

Mind-Body Connection:
Yoga emphasizes the connection between the mind and body, fostering a holistic approach to health.
Practices like mindfulness meditation enhance self-awareness and emotional well-being.

Enhanced Respiratory Function:
Pranayama, or yogic breathing exercises, improve lung capacity and respiratory function.
Deep, conscious breathing promotes oxygenation of the body’s cells, supporting overall health.

Better Sleep:
Regular practice of yoga has been associated with improved sleep quality and duration.

Relaxation techniques in yoga can help calm the nervous system, promoting better sleep hygiene.

Immune System Support:
The stress-reducing effects of yoga may contribute to a stronger immune system.
Physical activity in yoga, combined with relaxation, supports overall health and immune function.

Weight Management:
While not as intense as some forms of exercise, yoga can contribute to weight management through improved metabolism and increased mindfulness in eating habits.

Mental Health Benefits:
Yoga has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The meditative aspects of yoga can promote mental clarity and a sense of calm.

Community and Social Connection:
Joining a yoga class or community provides social support and a sense of belonging, contributing to mental and emotional well-being.
It’s important to note that individual experiences with yoga may vary, and it’s advisable to consult with healthcare professionals before beginning any new exercise or wellness program, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

Energize your health: Aerobics for cardiovascular fitness & flexibility
Aerobics is a form of physical exercise that combines rhythmic and repetitive movements with the goal of improving cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and overall health. It often involves continuous and moderate- to high-intensity activities performed to music, making it an enjoyable and dynamic workout. Here are key aspects of aerobics:

Cardiovascular Exercise:
Purpose: The primary focus of aerobics is to enhance cardiovascular endurance by engaging in activities that elevate the heart rate and breathing.
Benefits: Improved heart and lung function, increased stamina, and enhanced circulation are some of the cardiovascular benefits associated with aerobic exercise.

Rhythmic Movements:
Choreography: Aerobics often involves choreographed movements that are synchronized with music. Instructors design routines that combine elements of dance, step, and other rhythmic exercises.
Motivation: The rhythm and music in aerobics classes provide motivation and make the workout more enjoyable.

Group Exercise:
Classes: Aerobics is frequently conducted in group fitness classes led by an instructor. The group dynamic fosters motivation, camaraderie, and a sense of community among participants.
Instructor Guidance: Instructors guide participants through the routine, ensuring proper form and encouraging a consistent pace.

Variety of Styles:
Dance Aerobics: Incorporates dance movements into the routine, combining fitness with dance elements.
Step Aerobics: Involves the use of a raised platform (step) to add intensity and variety to the movements.
Water Aerobics: Conducted in a pool, reducing impact on joints and providing resistance for strength training.

Fitness Levels:
Adaptability: Aerobics can be adapted to various fitness levels, with participants choosing low-impact or high-impact options based on their capabilities and preferences.
Progression: As individuals become more fit, they can increase the intensity and complexity of their aerobic workouts.

Health Benefits:
Weight Management: Regular participation in aerobics can contribute to weight loss and weight maintenance.
Mood Enhancement: Aerobic exercise is known to release endorphins, promoting a positive mood and reducing stress.
Improved Sleep: Regular aerobic activity may lead to better sleep quality.

Equipment:
Minimal Equipment: While some aerobics classes may use props or equipment such as steps, resistance bands, or light weights, the focus is primarily on bodyweight movements.

Duration and Frequency:
Session Length: Aerobic sessions typically last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the class format and intensity.
Frequency: To reap the full benefits, individuals are encouraged to engage in aerobic exercise several times a week.
Aerobics provides a dynamic and enjoyable way to achieve cardiovascular fitness while offering the flexibility to adapt to different fitness levels and preferences. It remains a popular choice for those seeking a social and energizing exercise experience.

The retina plays a crucial role in your visual system. Positioned at the back of your eye, it consists of a layer of tissue that detects light and transmits visual signals to your brain. Any harm or degeneration of the retina can lead to various ocular conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and nearsightedness.

Fortunately, there are numerous daily practices you can adopt to promote the well-being of your eyes and maintain strong vision. Continue reading to discover effective ways to enhance the health of your retinas.

The Role of a Healthy Retina in Vision
The retina, though not visible to the naked eye, can be examined by an ophthalmologist using specialized instruments for intraocular observation. Positioned at the rear of the eye in close proximity to the optic nerve, the retina constitutes a thin, light-sensitive layer of tissue. It assumes the responsibility of transforming incoming light, which passes through the eye’s lens, into neural signals. These signals are subsequently transmitted to the brain through the optic nerve, the conduit linking the eyes and the brain. The information received by the brain aids in the interpretation of visual stimuli.
A healthy retina encompasses photosensitive cells referred to as rods and cones. Rods facilitate vision and color perception in low light conditions, while cones are responsible for high light level vision and color perception, collectively forming the visual input perceived by the eye. Additionally, the retina houses a critical region known as the fovea, which predominantly governs color perception and constitutes the epicenter of the eye’s most acute vision. Notably, the retina lacks nerve endings, rendering it impervious to tactile sensations. However, if any retinal issues arise, they may manifest through symptoms like blurred vision, serving as an early indicator of potential concerns.

Nourishing Your Retinal Health: Practical Steps
Here are steps you can take to help support your retinal health:

Proper Nutrition
A well-balanced diet is pivotal in preserving optimal eyesight. Insufficient nutrition can lead to diminished vision. It’s imperative to incorporate foods rich in vitamins A, C, E, antioxidants, minerals, and herbal supplements to support the robustness of your retinas.
Consider incorporating citrus fruits, fish, leafy greens like kale and spinach, broccoli, and nuts into your diet. These foods are packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients vital for enhancing cellular health in your eyes, ultimately benefiting your retinal well-being.

While achieving every necessary nutrient daily can be challenging, specialized eye health supplements offer a viable alternative to bolster your retinal health.

Quit Smoking
Smoking poses multiple threats to your eyes. It hinders blood circulation to the eye and retina, leading to damage in the blood vessels and contributing to macular degeneration.

Research indicates that smoking can accelerate the onset of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) by a decade compared to non-smokers. Additionally, smoking diminishes antioxidant levels in the bloodstream, crucial for maintaining optimal eyesight and supporting retinal health.

Moreover, the smoke from your cigarettes adversely affects the retinas of those in your vicinity, particularly children, who are more susceptible to retinal damage when exposed to secondhand smoke. Protecting your eyes and those of your loved ones begins with quitting smoking.

Rejuvenate Your Body and Eyes
In today’s fast-paced society, we often find ourselves caught up in a whirlwind of constant activity. This relentless pace can strain not only our minds but also our bodies and eyes. One simple yet effective practice you can integrate into your daily routine is taking a mere 10 minutes for yourself. Find a quiet space, gently close your eyes, and allow your mind to clear.

Additionally, ensuring you get a good night’s sleep is paramount for resting your eyes, body, and mind. For most individuals, a full eight hours of restful sleep is rejuvenating. A solid night’s sleep can significantly contribute to the well-being of your eyes, making a notable difference in their overall health and happiness. Remember, quality sleep is essential for optimal retinal health!

Safeguard Your Eyes from UV Rays
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays have the potential to harm both your skin and your eyes. To mitigate these risks:
Always don a pair of sunglasses offering 100% UV protection and complement this with a wide-brimmed hat whenever you step outdoors.
If you frequently engage in water-related activities like fishing, yachting, or spend time in snowy environments, consider investing in polarized sunglasses for enhanced protection against glare and UV rays.

Prioritize Regular Eye Exams
Regular dilated eye exams play a pivotal role in early detection of retinal conditions, enabling intervention before significant damage ensues.
Given that numerous retinal diseases exhibit minimal symptoms during their initial phases, consistent eye examinations are imperative for maintaining optimal eye health.

Conclusion
Maintaining the health of your retinas is paramount in preventing the onset of eye diseases and conditions. As a vital component of your vision, the retina requires special attention. By adhering to these practical tips, you can fortify and sustain the strength and vitality of your retinas.

The author is a Vitreo Retina Surgeon , FAICO Retina , MS Ophthal, MBBS, Ananta Eye Care Centre.

Morning sickness, despite its misleading name, can strike at any time of day, leaving expectant mothers grappling with waves of nausea and discomfort. This common pregnancy symptom affects the majority of pregnant women, often during the first trimester, but for some, it may persist throughout the entire pregnancy. Coping with nausea and morning sickness can be challenging, but there are numerous strategies and remedies to help ease the discomfort and make the experience more manageable.

The exact cause of morning sickness remains a subject of ongoing research, but it is believed to be linked to hormonal changes during pregnancy. One of the most common strategies for dealing with morning sickness is dietary modification. For many women, certain foods and odors can trigger nausea, and avoiding these triggers can help alleviate the symptoms. Some women find relief by eating small, frequent meals throughout the day, rather than three large meals. This approach can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent the stomach from becoming too empty, which can worsen nausea. Opting for bland, easily digestible foods like crackers, rice, or plain toast can also be helpful, as strong flavors and spices can sometimes exacerbate the problem.

Ginger is a natural remedy that has gained popularity for its effectiveness in combating nausea. Whether consumed as ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger capsules, this root has been shown to provide relief for some pregnant women. While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, it is believed that ginger can help soothe an upset stomach and reduce the severity of nausea.

In some cases, vitamin B6 supplements have been recommended by doctors to help ease morning sickness. Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is thought to have a role in reducing nausea and vomiting. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements during pregnancy, as excessive intake can be harmful.

Hydration is essential for expectant mothers, but it can be challenging to maintain when nausea and vomiting are constant companions. Sipping small amounts of clear fluids throughout the day can help prevent dehydration. Staying hydrated is particularly crucial if vomiting is frequent, as it can lead to electrolyte imbalances. Clear fluids like water, herbal teas, and clear broths are generally well-tolerated. Some women find relief from ice-cold beverages, as the cold temperature can help soothe the stomach.

If dietary modifications and home remedies do not provide sufficient relief, there are medications that can be prescribed by doctors to manage severe morning sickness. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits and risks of medication use during pregnancy.

In addition, rest and relaxation are crucial during pregnancy, and fatigue can exacerbate nausea. Ensuring adequate sleep and managing stress through practices like deep breathing, meditation, or prenatal yoga can be helpful. Sometimes, changing daily routines or taking short breaks during the day can provide much-needed relief.

Avoiding strong odors, whether from cooking, perfumes, or household cleaning products, can help reduce nausea triggers. It may also be beneficial to open windows and maintain good ventilation in living spaces to ensure a fresh, odor-free environment.

Support from partners, family, and friends is invaluable during pregnancy, especially when dealing with morning sickness. Communicating openly about the challenges and discomfort can provide emotional support and help reduce stress. Partners can assist with meal preparation and household chores, making the expectant mother’s daily life more manageable.

Final Thoughts
Coping with nausea and morning sickness during pregnancy can be a challenging experience, but there are various strategies and remedies to help alleviate the discomfort. Dietary modifications, natural remedies like ginger and acupressure wristbands, and medical interventions are all potential options for managing morning sickness. Lifestyle adjustments, such as getting adequate rest and minimizing stress, can also contribute to a more comfortable pregnancy.

The author is a MBBS, MS, DNB (Obstetrics & Gynecology) at Apollo.

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.

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

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)

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.

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).

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.