Mango For Skin: 6 Face Packs You Must Try For Glowing Summer Skin

 

Mango and Honey Glow Pack: Mix ripe mango pulp with a teaspoon of honey to create a smooth paste. Apply evenly on clean skin and leave for fifteen minutes. This pack deeply hydrates, softens texture, and gives a natural glow, making it perfect for dry and dull summer skin. (Image: AI Generated)

Mango and Yogurt Brightening Pack: Blend mango pulp with fresh yogurt to form a creamy mixture. Apply it to your face and let it sit for fifteen minutes before rinsing. This pack helps gently exfoliate, remove tan, and brighten complexion while keeping skin cool and refreshed during hot weather. (Image: AI Generated)

Mango and Turmeric Radiance Pack: Combine mango pulp with a pinch of turmeric and a little milk. Apply a thin layer and leave it for ten to fifteen minutes. This pack helps enhance radiance, reduce blemishes, and promote an even skin tone with regular use. (Image: AI Generated)

Mango and Oatmeal Exfoliating Pack: Mix mango pulp with finely ground oatmeal to create a mildly gritty paste. Gently massage onto your skin in circular motions and leave for ten minutes. This pack exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and leaves your skin feeling smooth and rejuvenated. (Image: AI Generated)

Mango and Aloe Vera Soothing Pack: Blend mango pulp with fresh Aloe Vera gel to create a cooling mixture. Apply evenly and leave for fifteen minutes. This pack soothes sun-exposed skin, reduces redness, and provides hydration, making it ideal for sensitive or irritated summer skin. (Image: AI Generated)

Mango and Gram Flour Detox Pack: Mix mango pulp with gram flour and a little rose water to form a thick paste. Apply it evenly and let it dry slightly before washing off. This pack helps control excess oil, cleanse pores, and give your skin a fresh, matte glow. (Image: AI Generated)

Real vs Fake: 4 Ways To Spot Fruits And Vegetables Injected With Harmful Chemicals

 

Bright colours, perfectly polished surfaces and unusually fast ripening may sometimes indicate chemical treatment in fruits and vegetables. Experts say certain sellers use artificial ripening agents, wax coatings or chemical dyes to improve appearance and shelf life. While not every shiny fruit is unsafe, consumers are increasingly looking for simple ways to identify produce that may contain harmful chemical traces before bringing it home.

Water Test: One simple home method involves soaking fruits and vegetables in water for a few minutes. If the water changes colour or develops an oily layer, it could indicate artificial coatings or dyes. For watermelons, placing a small piece of pulp in a glass of water may help. If the water turns pink or red quickly, experts suggest being cautious before consuming it.

Cotton Ball / Tissue Rub Test: Rub the red flesh of the watermelon with a white cotton ball or tissue paper. If the cotton turns bright pink or red instantly, it indicates the presence of artificial colouring agents like Rhodamine B or Erythrosine. Natural fruit leaves little to no stain

.Smell, Texture & Appearance Check: Chemically ripened fruits often have no natural aroma or smell chemical-like. They appear unnaturally shiny, uniformly coloured, and may have injection marks or cracks. Avoid fruits that feel too hard despite bright colour or have powdery residue on the skin.

Wash, Peel And Soak Produce Properly: Experts recommend washing produce thoroughly under running water rather than simply wiping it dry. Soaking fruits and vegetables in salt water or baking soda solution for a few minutes may help reduce surface pesticide residue. Peeling certain fruits and vegetables can also lower exposure to wax coatings or chemicals often used during transportation and storage.

Written By :

• Lifestyle Desk
• News18.com

Bajra In Winter, Ragi In Summer: Are You Eating The Right Roti For The Season?

In India, roti is far more than a meal staple, it is woven into everyday life. From breakfast to dinner, it appears on almost every plate. Yet, few people pause to consider whether the same roti suits every season. Our bodies respond differently to heat and cold, and their nutritional needs change accordingly. Winter calls for warmth and strength, while summer demands lighter, cooling foods.

Celebrity chef and culinary expert Pankaj Bhadouria highlights that selecting grains according to the season can naturally support better health. This wisdom isn’t new; older generations followed it instinctively, rotating grains through the year to nourish the body appropriately.

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Today, this age-old practice is being reaffirmed through nutrition science and Ayurveda. Here’s a simple seasonal guide to choosing the right roti for your body.

Bajra Roti: A Winter Powerhouse

Bajra roti is a winter favourite for good reason. It generates internal warmth, making it ideal for cold weather. Rich in iron, fibre, and magnesium, it helps combat anaemia, reduce fatigue, and ease joint stiffness common in winter.

Thick bajra rotis topped with ghee provide sustained energy and pair beautifully with mustard greens, garlic chutney, or yoghurt.

Jowar Roti: Suitable For All Seasons

Jowar roti works well in both summer and winter. In colder months, it offers steady strength without heaviness, while in summer it remains light and easy on digestion. Its high fibre content aids bowel health and prevents constipation.

Jowar does not increase body heat and even has a mild cooling effect. Kneading it with warm water helps achieve softer, tastier rotis.

Makki Roti: Winter Energy Booster

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Makki roti is synonymous with winter meals. Packed with energy, it helps the body withstand cold temperatures. Corn carbohydrates digest slowly, keeping hunger at bay for longer; ideal when the body requires extra calories in winter.

Enjoyed with butter, mustard greens, or potato curry, it offers both comfort and nutrition.

Ragi Roti: Summer’s Cooling Choice

Ragi roti is especially beneficial during summer. Known for its cooling properties, ragi helps regulate body temperature and reduces acidity. Its high calcium content strengthens bones, while its nutrients combat weakness caused by excessive sweating.

Thin ragi rotis or ragi dosa served with yoghurt feel light, refreshing, and nourishing.

Barley Roti: Light And Detoxifying

Barley roti is another excellent option for summer. It helps draw out excess heat from the body and supports digestive health. The fibre in barley improves gut function, reduces bloating, and can be helpful for those experiencing frequent thirst or urinary discomfort during hot months.

Lightly roasted barley rotis are the best choice.

Wheat Roti: The All-Season Staple

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Wheat roti remains the most common choice in Indian homes and suits all seasons. It is neutral in nature, neither heating nor cooling, and provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates and protein for daily needs.

For those without specific health concerns, wheat roti is a reliable, year-round option.

  

  

Aparajita Tea: This Blue Flower Drink Is Great For Your Memory And Skin

 

Aparajita, or Butterfly Pea flower tea, offers numerous health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, it helps reduce stress, enhance memory and concentration, and support overall brain and mental health. It also aids digestion, cools the stomach, and detoxifies the body. (Local18)

Benefits for Skin, Hair, and Immunity: Butterfly pea tea strengthens skin and hair, promotes a healthy glow, and reduces wrinkles and dandruff. It also boosts immunity thanks to its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping remove toxins, relieve stress, and improve metabolic function. (Local18)

Mental Health and Cognitive Support: According to Dr Geetika Sharma, tea made from butterfly pea flowers is particularly beneficial for mental well-being. It reduces anxiety and mental fatigue, improves concentration, boosts memory, and protects brain cells with its neuroprotective properties.

Digestive Health and Detoxification: Aparajita tea promotes a healthy digestive system. It cools the stomach, alleviates acidity and gas, cleans the intestines, boosts metabolism, and detoxifies the body. Regular consumption supports a stronger and healthier digestive system while also reducing stress-related digestive issues. (Local18)

Blood Sugar, Cholesterol, and Heart Health: This tea helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Its anti-diabetic properties support heart health and maintain metabolic balance, making it an ideal drink for overall cardiovascular wellness. (Local18)

Eye Health And Vision Support: The anthocyanins in butterfly pea tea enhance blood circulation to the eyes, improving vision and reducing eye fatigue and irritation. (Local18)

How to Prepare Butterfly Pea Flower Tea: To prepare, boil fresh butterfly pea flowers in water, strain the mixture, and optionally add lemon and honey for a refreshing and health-boosting drink.

Want Protein Without Eggs? 5 Vegetarian Superfoods That Build Strength Naturally

 

At a time when gym culture and protein supplements dominate health discussions, nutritionists are reminding people that natural, plant-based foods can be equally effective in building strength. Contrary to the popular belief that muscle power lies only in eggs, meat and fish, experts say several vegetarian foods offer "bumper" protein along with essential minerals and vitamins. (News18 Gujarati)

Dietitian Mamta Pandey told Local 18 that vegetarian protein sources are often underestimated. "Paneer, legumes, seeds and nuts not only provide protein but also help improve digestion, immunity and energy levels," she said, adding that these foods are easily available and free from the side effects linked to artificial supplements. (News18 Gujarati)

Paneer: One of the most convenient and widely consumed protein-rich foods, paneer contains nearly 13 grams of protein per 100 grams, more than double what a single egg provides. It also aids in weight gain and strengthens muscles and bones. (News18 Gujarati)

Pumpkin Seeds: Small in size but mighty in nutrition, pumpkin seeds carry around 9 grams of protein in just 28 grams. Rich in magnesium, zinc and phosphorus, these seeds promote heart health and improve immunity. (News18 Gujarati)

Rajma (Kidney Beans): Popular in Indian kitchens, rajma is as nutritious as it is delicious. Half a cup of cooked rajma provides 8 grams of protein, in addition to dietary fibre that regulates blood sugar and keeps one full for longer. (News18 Gujarati)

Chickpeas (Chhole/Desi Chana): Half a cup of chickpeas offers about 8 grams of protein, along with iron, phosphorus and folate. Nutritionists recommend it as an energy booster that also helps reduce fatigue. (News18 Gujarati)

Peanuts: Often dubbed the "poor man's nuts", peanuts are rich in both protein and healthy fats. A 100-gram serving contains about 25 grams of protein, alongside vitamin E that enhances immunity. (News18 Gujarati)

Health experts say these five superfoods are easy to incorporate into daily meals, from salads and snacks to gravies and desserts. Affordable and accessible, they can serve as natural alternatives to animal protein and costly supplements. (News18 Gujarati)

(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on general sources. Readers are advised to consult a qualified dietitian or medical professional before making significant dietary changes.)

Think Twice Before Eating Bottle Gourd – It’s Not Safe For Everyone

 

Bottle gourd, known for its high water content and nutritional value, is widely consumed in curries and juices. While it offers several health benefits, it’s not suitable for everyone. In certain cases, bottle gourd can actually worsen existing health conditions. Here’s a look at who should avoid it and the reason behind it. (AI Generated)

1. Risk to Foetal Health: Some studies suggest that bottle gourd may pose risks to pregnant women and their unborn babies. Certain toxins found in bottle gourd have been linked to adverse effects on foetal development. For this reason, it is strongly advised that pregnant women consult a medical professional before including bottle gourd in their diet. (AI Generated)

2. Can Lower Blood Pressure Further: Bottle gourd naturally helps reduce blood pressure. While this is beneficial for those with hypertension, it can be problematic for individuals with low blood pressure. Overconsumption may lead to headaches, fatigue, and dizziness. Those with hypotension should consume it in moderation or avoid it altogether. (AI Generated)

3. Not Kidney-Friendly: People with kidney-related conditions should be cautious. Bottle gourd is rich in potassium, which the kidneys may struggle to filter efficiently in such individuals. Excessive potassium can increase the burden on the kidneys and potentially impair their function. (AI Generated)

4. Worsens Digestive Issues: Those with digestive problems such as bloating, gas, or indigestion should limit their intake, especially in the evening. The high fibre and water content in bottle gourd can slow digestion, which might aggravate existing gastrointestinal issues. It’s advisable to pair bottle gourd with other easily digestible vegetables in curries to aid digestion. Those with ongoing health concerns should consult a doctor before making dietary changes. (AI Generated)

5. Be Cautious with Bottle Gourd Juice: While bottle gourd juice is popular for its health benefits, drinking juice made from bitter bottle gourd can be dangerous. Bitter-tasting gourd may contain toxic compounds that can lead to severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, and, in rare cases, fatal gastroenteritis or food poisoning. So, avoid bitter bottle gourd juice and even, bottled juices sold in the market, as they may contain harmful bacteria. Always prepare fresh juice at home, and avoid using bitter gourds. Tasting a small raw piece before cooking or juicing can help detect bitterness. (AI Generated)

6. The Danger of Cucurbitacin: The bitterness in bottle gourd is often caused by a toxic compound called cucurbitacin, which is harmful to human health. It can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and severe stomach cramps. In extreme cases, it may lead to food poisoning. (AI Generated)

To prevent this always taste a small piece of raw gourd before cooking or juicing. Also, remember to discard any bitter-tasting gourd immediately.

While bottle gourd can be a healthy addition to your diet, it’s important to consume it mindfully. If you have any underlying health issues, especially related to blood pressure, kidneys, or digestion, speak with a healthcare professional before including it regularly in your meals. (AI Generated)

National Nutrition Week 2025: Eat Right For A Better Life

 

National Nutrition Week is an annual reminder that healthy living begins with mindful choices about what we eat. This year’s theme, “Eat Right for a Better Life," emphasizes the need to focus not just on dietary intake, but on the origins of the food we consume. Leading organizations in India are stepping up with innovative solutions to bridge the nutrition gap and help people lead healthier lives.

Nutrition Begins in the Soil

Shashi Kumar, CEO and Co-founder, Akshayakalpa Organic, says, “National Nutrition Week is a reminder that nutrition is not just about what we eat, but how that food is grown. This year’s theme, ‘Eat Right for a Better Life,’ makes us reflect on where nourishment really begins. At Akshayakalpa Organic, we have always believed that nutrition doesn’t start in the kitchen, it starts in the soil. When soil is alive, healthy, and free from chemicals, the food that grows from it is naturally nutrient-rich, building stronger people and a healthier planet."

Shashi Kumar explains that regenerative farming practices have transformed the nutritional value of the food grown on their farms. Soil carbon levels have improved from 0.5% to 2.4%, enhancing fertility and nutrient density. According to him, “when we restore soil health, we restore nutrition."

Despite such progress, India still faces a significant nutrition gap: 73% of Indians are protein deficient, and only 10% meet their daily protein requirements. To address this, the brand recently launched High-Protein Paneer, an organic, nutrient-rich source of protein suitable for everyday diets. Continuous R&D and innovative product development are central to their mission of bridging the nutrition gap sustainably.

Innovation for Balanced Nutrition

Tata Consumer Products believes this year’s theme for National Nutrition Week, ‘Eat Right for a Better Life,’ highlights the importance of balanced nutrition for health and wellness. At Tata Consumer Products, the approach to nutrition is embedded in the innovation strategy. Their Nutrition Policy is grounded in nutrition science with comprehensive guidelines for ingredients, nutrients, and claims.

Tata Consumer Products is strengthening its Health & Wellness portfolio to make nutrient-rich foods affordable and accessible. Their offerings include:

Tata Sampann Easy Cook Range – Ragi atta and Kabuli chana

Tata Salt Functional Range – iron-fortified, added zinc, lower sodium options

Organic India Supplements – extensive health and wellness range

Tetley Green Tea enriched with L-Carnitine – supporting fat metabolism

Tata Soulfull Products – no maida rusk, oats with millets, and sugar-free muesli

These innovations empower consumers to make better dietary choices and achieve a balanced diet that suits diverse needs.

Bridging Nutrition Gaps for a Healthier Future

Both brands highlight a critical point: nutrition is a combination of quality food sources and thoughtful innovation. While Akshayakalpa focuses on restoring soil health to naturally enhance nutrient density, Tata Consumer Products brings science-backed, affordable solutions to households across India.

Kumar concludes, “Organic is not just farming; it is how we bridge the nutrition gap for a healthier future."

Together, these efforts represent a broader movement in India to ensure that “eating right" starts from the ground up, combining sustainable agriculture with accessible, nutrient-rich products to create a healthier nation.