OMAD Diet Explained: Weight Loss Breakthrough Or Nutritional Gamble?

The One Meal A Day (OMAD) diet is a type of intermittent fasting where the individual takes all their calorie intake for the day in just a single meal at any part of the day, but preferably within a one-hour window. This approach has recently received attention for its possible benefits in the management of body weight and metabolic health. It has also raised some challenges and risks about the quality of the diet provided. This was demonstrated by a woman from Chennai who lost “22 kg in four months."

On Instagram, the woman, named Vino, shares details about her daily diet, fitness routine, and dramatic weight reduction. According to her bio, she lost 21 kgs in 4 months. She included the following message with a recent video: “Day 132 of my OMAD diet – 97 kg to 76 kg."

Speaking to Hindustan Times, Vino said, “Jeera and cinnamon water on an empty stomach. I will break my fast at 5 PM with a healthy snack (soaked walnuts) and a balanced meal (rice with dishes like vegetable korma, bottle gourd curry, lady’s finger, paneer, and paniyaram) at 5.30 PM, and have fruits (pomegranate) at 6 PM."

In addition to this diet, she walks more than 20,000 steps a day and engages in “one-hour strength training" to keep in shape.

The OMAD diet follows a low-calorie intake principle. By creating an energy deficit, it may lead to weight loss. People adhering to this diet consume very few calories as they restrict themselves to only one meal a day, unlike the normal pattern of taking 3 meals.

According to a study published by NIH in 2018, OMAD is beneficial for fat oxidation and increased metabolic flexibility which refers to a body’s capability to transform between burning carbohydrates and fats for energy.

Potential Benefits

Followers have reported a considerable amount of weight loss since consuming a few calories. According to some studies, this kind of intermittent fasting diet can help shed between 7 to 11 pounds over a period of 12 weeks.

Risks And Concerns

Despite its potential benefits, the OMAD diet poses several risks. 

Nutritional Deficiencies: Just one meal is not sufficient enough to meet the nutrient needs of the body, and the deficiency has negative impacts on health.

Sustainability Issues: Typically, the rigid schedule for the OMAD diet can leave many people struggling to make it for more than a week. The dropout rate could be as high as 65%.

Physical Side Effects: With reference to the instructed fasting periods, followers may feel fatigued, dizzy, irritable, and so on. Further effects are observed concerning metabolic rates and muscle mass over long-term use.

Studies that are directed at the particularities of the OMAD diet are scarce. According to the BBC Science Focus magazine’s one limited study, people, who had OMAD diets, lost their body weight and fat, but they also lost muscle mass and bone density.

Sara Ali Khan Talks About What Holistic Wellness Means To Her: 'When The Body, Mind, And Soul...'

Sara Ali Khan is known for balancing her love for food and her dedication to fitness like a pro. The actor does not shy away from indulging in tasty treats but she makes sure to burn off the calories later at the gym. She is often seen maintaining a healthy work-life balance by regularly taking time off work. In a latest interview, the actor shared what wellness means to her.

Speaking to NDTV, Sara Ali Khan talked about wellness and how she takes time out to relax and unwind after a hectic work schedule. She said, “I think that wellness is a very holistic term. It’s when the body, mind, and soul are in tune and at ease, and whatever enables that, meditation and reading for the mind, working out, yoga for the body, travelling for the soul. I think it is very important to spend time with yourself. For me, wellness is that."

Khan talked about seeking peace and doing everything from her heart. She continued, “Whatever you do, you should do it from your heart, in a calm manner and with full concentration and ease. That’s important in our lives as we don’t get peace and silence in our daily lives. We don’t want it every day anyways but you maintain the balance when you get this kind of peace in your personal lives as well."

Previously, Khan has stressed the importance of taking time off social media and spending time with herself to unwind. She talked about how she loves unwinding by trekking in the mountains, travelling away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and meditation. She had recently taken a trip to Kedarnath where she was seen offering prayers at the temple, shopping, eating local cuisines, and trekking in the mountains and hills.

Five Uncommon Fruits From Uttarakhand That Provide Remarkable Health Advantages

While a plethora of fruits can be found in the marketplace, certain exceptional varieties unique to the highlands of Uttarakhand deliver an extensive array of health perks. These fruits, abundant in vitamins, antioxidants, and vital minerals, are celebrated for their therapeutic qualities. Here’s a glimpse at five such fruits and how they can enhance your health.

1. Hisalu

Hisalu, a fruit indigenous to the elevated terrains of Uttarakhand, is brimming with medicinal benefits. As stated by Dr. Chauhan, a researcher at the High Altitude Plant Physiology Research Centre, Hisalu aids in easing digestive troubles like constipation, indigestion, and bloating. It is also high in Vitamin C, which bolsters the immune system, and its antioxidant characteristics promote general well-being.

 2. Ghigharu

Exclusively found in the hilly areas of Uttarakhand, Ghigharu is recognized for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This fruit is particularly advantageous for cardiovascular health due to its heart-strengthening properties. It can assist in minimizing the risk of heart ailments and reducing hypertension.

 3. Malta

A distinctive type of orange, Malta flourishes in the mountainous terrains of Uttarakhand. It contains anthocyanin, a robust antioxidant that imparts a deeper hue compared to conventional oranges. Malta is loaded with Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, manganese, calcium, fiber, and antioxidants, rendering it an excellent selection for enhancing immunity and overall health.

 4. Kilmora

Kilmora, found in the woodlands of Uttarakhand, is highly prized for its anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial traits. These therapeutic advantages make it a significant fruit in both traditional healing and contemporary wellness practices.

 5. Bedu (Himalayan Fig)

Bedu, often referred to as Himalayan fig, grows naturally in the forests of Uttarakhand. This perennial fruit stands as an exceptional source of vitamins A, B1, B2, fiber, carbohydrates, and vital amino acids, making it a nutrient-dense addition to any meal plan.

 These fruits, with their impressive range of health advantages, not only provide unique tastes but also play a crucial role in promoting overall wellness.

Are Bananas harmful Due To Their Radioactive Nature? Understand The Truth

Bananas are incredibly popular due to their lovely flavor and health benefits. They are also adaptable and convenient to eat. However, were you aware that bananas have radioactive properties? As reported by BBC Science Focus, bananas consist of potassium-40, a radioactive isotope, which adds to their slight radioactivity. A truckload of bananas can set off radiation detectors because of their radioactivity. Does this imply they are unsafe for consumption? Let’s explore.

Radioactivity describes the transformation and disintegration of atoms over time. This can pose a risk if the substances involved are unstable. Regarding bananas, they contain approximately 0.012% of the radioactive isotope potassium-40, or K-40, which is a naturally occurring isotope contributing to the minimal radioactivity of bananas. Furthermore, consuming a banana exposes you to roughly 0.01 mrem from its K-40 content. This radiation level is quite low and poses no threat to life.

Curiously, humans are more radioactive than bananas based on their potassium levels. An average adult has around 140 grams of potassium, according to BBC Science Focus. This means we are about 280 times more radioactive than a single banana! When you eat a banana, your body sees a temporary increase in potassium-40 levels by 0.4 percent, which is swiftly eliminated.

According to these statistics, only a daily intake of up to 400 bananas could elevate your potassium levels to potentially dangerous proportions. A typical adult should aim for roughly 3,500 mg of potassium each day. Therefore, consuming 400 bananas would yield 168,800 mg of potassium, surpassing safe limits. Such an intake is virtually impossible for any healthy person. Thus, bananas can be regarded as safe and healthy.

Additionally, many other foods contain potassium-40 and various naturally occurring radioactive isotopes. These include potatoes, spinach, and Brazil nuts. Notably, Brazil nuts are recognized for having even higher levels of radium than bananas. Nonetheless, this does not render any of these foods dangerous to consume, as they only contribute negligibly small amounts of radiation exposure.

Despite bananas containing radioactive components like potassium-40, the amounts are exceedingly low, ensuring they are safe to eat. Conversely, bananas qualify as a superfood rich in antioxidants, which can help mitigate the risks of heart disease and macular degeneration. They also support weight management as they are low in calories yet rich in nutrients. 

Combat the Winter Flu with the Dynamic Duo: Black Tea and Tulsi

As winter descends, so does the wave of flu and colds, prompting many to seek natural methods to enhance their immunity and maintain wellness. One enduring remedy that has proven its effectiveness over the years is the pairing of black tea and tulsi. This formidable duo not only provides a warm and soothing drink but also brims with health advantages, making it a perfect choice for warding off seasonal ailments.

The Strength of Black Tea and Tulsi

Black tea, abundant in antioxidants, is famed for its capacity to tackle oxidative stress and diminish inflammation within the body. The antioxidants found in black tea, including catechins and theaflavins, play a crucial role in fortifying the body's natural defenses. This positions black tea as an exceptional choice for promoting overall wellness, especially during winter months when our immune systems require additional assistance.

Parimal Shah, Founder & CEO of Cherise India Pvt. Ltd., states, “Winter is when our immune systems need added support, and there’s no finer approach to enhance your health than with the dynamic combination of black tea and tulsi. At Cherise India, we focus on leveraging the natural advantages of these ingredients to combat seasonal flu and colds. Black tea is laden with antioxidants, while tulsi is celebrated for its healing properties, making this blend not only flavorful but also remarkably advantageous.”

Tulsi: The Healing Herb

Tulsi, often referred to as Holy Basil, is a highly regarded herb in Indian culture, known for its immune-enhancing, antiviral, and antibacterial qualities. It has been utilized for generations in Ayurvedic medicine to remedy various issues, from colds and coughs to stress and inflammation. When paired with black tea, tulsi acts in synergy to enhance circulation, alleviate the intensity of cold symptoms, and bolster respiratory health.

Bala Sarda, Founder and CEO of VAHDAM India, elaborates: “I hold that nature has gifted us potent ingredients to aid our immune systems, and that’s where the enduring values of traditional elements like black tea and tulsi enter the picture. Black tea, replete with antioxidants, helps counter oxidative stress and lessen inflammation, fortifying the body’s defenses. When mixed with Tulsi, a cherished herb recognized for its immune-boosting benefits, it collaborates to foster circulation, diminish cold symptoms' severity, and enrich respiratory health.”

A Comforting, Immunity-Enhancing Drink

Merging black tea and tulsi in a warm, comforting cup can help ease a sore throat, relieve nasal congestion, and offer comfort from the common cold. This fusion is a natural remedy that not only tastes delightful but also provides significant health benefits, rendering it an essential component of any wellness regimen throughout the brisk winter months.

Shah further highlights the significance of incorporating these elements into our daily lives: “Sipping a warm cup of this blend can soothe your throat, elevate your immunity, and provide comfort during the frosty season. As we embrace these traditional cures, let’s integrate them into our daily routines for a healthier winter.”

A Natural Solution for Winter Wellbeing

Together, black tea and tulsi create a powerful alliance that can notably enhance your body’s ability to combat the seasonal flu. They assist in bolstering the immune system, offering respiratory respite, and delivering a comforting, nourishing drink for the winter season. This combination transcends mere beverage status—it's a natural remedy that fortifies the body’s defenses, ensuring your vitality throughout the flu season.

Bala Sarda concludes, “This mix is not just a drink but a natural remedy that bolsters the body’s defenses, making it an indispensable element of any wellness practice this winter.”

So, as you revel in your winter evenings with a warm cup of black tea and tulsi, recognize that you’re not just enjoying a delightful beverage—you’re also providing your body with the finest natural assistance to fend off the winter flu.

7 Reasons To Add Black Carrots To Your Winter Diet

 

With the arrival of winter, markets are flooded with green vegetables. Fenugreek, bathua, mustard greens, and gram leaves become particularly popular for their incredible taste. Winter also brings carrots and radishes into season. Red carrots, whether eaten raw, cooked, or in desserts like halwa, offer numerous health benefits. However, this season also introduces a lesser-known yet highly beneficial vegetable — black carrots, often referred to as ‘desi carrots.’ While red carrots are common, black carrots are packed with essential nutrients like fiber, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin C, making them highly beneficial for digestion, heart health, and overall well-being.

In traditional medicine, especially in India and parts of the Middle East, black carrots are valued for their medicinal properties. Including them in your diet can offer several health advantages:

1. Cancer Prevention: Black carrots contain anthocyanin, a powerful antioxidant that combats free radicals responsible for aging and cancer. These phytonutrients help inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

2. 1. Improved Digestion: Rich in fiber, black carrots promote healthy digestion and help alleviate constipation and other stomach issues.

   2. Heart Health: Black carrots can help control blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels, thereby lowering the risk of heart diseases. Even black carrot halwa can benefit your heart.

   3. Better Vision: Like red carrots, black carrots are high in vitamin A and beta-carotene, which support eye health and improve vision by keeping the retina in good condition.

   4. Blood Sugar Control: With a low glycemic index, black carrots help regulate blood sugar levels, making them suitable for diabetic patients.

   5. Glowing Skin: Black carrots enhance skin health by reducing wrinkles and providing anti-inflammatory benefits, which can help resolve skin problems.

   6. Stronger Immunity: Packed with vitamin C and other nutrients, black carrots boost the immune system, protecting against colds and infections.

   Incorporating black carrots into your winter diet can provide multiple health benefits, making them a valuable addition to seasonal nutrition.

Does Eating Too Much Sugar Speed Up Ageing?

 Sugar damages your skin through a process called glycation. Sugars in the bloodstream attach to proteins and produce harmful radicals known as advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These AGEs accumulate and damage the proteins around them. Dr Shilpa Patil, MD Dermatologist, Director, Ethoski Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. shares all you need to know.

Collagen and elastin, which are responsible for making your skin firm, elastic, and giving it a plump, healthy complexion, are particularly affected by AGEs. The glycation process damages collagen and elastin, making them stiff, dry, and brittle. This damage is visible on your skin in the form of fine lines and wrinkles.

Glycation also impacts the type of collagen in your skin. The skin contains three types of collagen: type I, type II, and type III. Type I is the weakest, and type III is the strongest. Due to glycation, type III collagen becomes as weak as type I, diminishing the overall strength and structure of the skin.

Additionally, glycation deactivates natural antioxidant enzymes, leaving the skin more vulnerable to oxidative stress.

Signs that sugar is aging your skin:

1. Discoloration
2. Hard and shiny skin surface
3. Crosshatch lines along the lip line
4. Crosshatch lines along the lip line
5. Prevention:
6. Reduce sugar intake
7. Increase water consumption
8. Ensure proper sleep
9. Include supplements rich in vitamin B1 (found in green peas, spinach) and vitamin B6 (found in chickpeas, sunflower seeds)
10. Incorporate antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E
11. Detoxify the skin regularly
12. Follow a consistent and healthy skincare routine

Bhagyashree Shares The Health Benefits Of Water Chestnuts, Three Ways To Include It In Your Diet

After a successful stint in movies, actor Bhagyashree has now dipped her toes into health and fitness. The 55-year-old actor often takes to her social media to share about healthy foods and why you should include them in your diet. Her social media offers a lot of tips and tricks on eating and staying healthy. Recently, the former actor took to her social media to talk about the benefits of water chestnuts.

Taking to her Instagram, Bhagyashree talked about the nutrients that are packed in water chestnuts, better known as paniphal. She wrote, “Water chestnuts are highly nutritious, even though they contain carbs. They have a low glycemic index, which means the carbs break down slowly, releasing glucose into the bloodstream gradually, as the body needs energy. This helps prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar. They’re also rich in fiber, potassium, manganese, copper, B6, riboflavin, and antioxidants."

As water chestnuts are in season, here is how you can incorporate them into your diet and enjoy this seasonal produce.

Eat Them Raw Or Boiled

Wash them well and peel off the skin. Use a knife or a vegetable peeler to take the skin off and munch on them as a hearty snack. Additionally, you can boil them as well and relish their goodness. Water chestnuts have a sweet and nutty flavour. They taste like raw fresh apples.

Add Them To Salads

Pair chopped or sliced water chestnuts with your salads. It pairs well with lettuce, carrots, and cucumbers.

Use Them In Stir Fries

Asian cuisine often uses water chestnuts in their recipes. You can slice or chop the fruit and stir-fry them with vegetables or even tofu for that extra crunch. They can also be added to noodles or fried rice for that authentic Asian flavour.

Keeping Diabetes Under Control To Boosting Immunity, Benefits Of Himalayan Strawberry

Do you know the fruit that is no less than an immunity booster and a boon for diabetic patients? This fruit is a precious gift extracted from the lap of the Himalayas known as Bhamora fruit, delicious in taste and is not only rich in nutrients but also a natural cure for many diseases. Bhamora fruit is a solution for numerous problems, ranging from diabetes to skin-related issues. Know about the medical properties of this amazing fruit which is a hidden treasure of the Himalayas.

Himalayan strawberry is a natural medicine that helps protect the body from many diseases. It is rich in nutrients like Vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium, and phosphorus. These elements increase the body’s immunity. Strengthen bones and provide energy to the muscles. It helps in improving the overall well-being of a person.

Bhamora fruit or Himalayan strawberry also treats digestive problems like gas, constipation, digestive problems, and abdominal pain. The fibre present in this food keeps the stomach clean and improves digestion. This fruit is considered a boon for diabetic patients as well. Regular consumption of this fruit helps in controlling the sugar level.

Bhamora fruit is also used in the treatment of urinary diseases. It has many natural properties that keep the urinary tract clean and provide relief from urinary tract problems. In the Himalayan regions, people use it as a traditional medicine for urinary diseases.

Bhamora fruit is also an antioxidant that helps in keeping diabetes under control, and has anti-nephrolithiasis properties.

Bhamora is found only in Himalayan regions with an altitude of 1200 to 2000 metres, such as Nepal, Bhutan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. This fruit grows among the forests of oak and rhododendron and can also be found between the trees of the banyan and the buransh. Local people eat it after the fruit ripens in the month of November and also use it as medicine. This fruit is a unique wealth of and Himalayan regions, which is known as a natural gift.

Five Reasons Why You Need To Diversify Your Meals; How To Add Diverse Foods To Your Plate?

Having a diverse range of food items in your daily diet plan is key to leading a healthy lifestyle. Bringing diversity to your plate can provide you with better nourishment which is essential in enhancing your overall body health. Considering today’s world, all our meals should be rich in carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. For that one must ensure that the daily meal contains a wide variety of food items. These different groups of food items will provide your body with energy, help build muscles, and keep all the infections away. Apart from the nutritional value, a diverse meal also adds colours and flavours to your overall diet.

Why Should You Diversify Your Plate?

There are multiple reasons why one should diversify their plate and add different food items. They include –

Nutritional Needs

A balanced meal ensures your body gets the right amount of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

Fight Chronic Diseases

A wide variety of food items on your plate can also help prevent several lifestyle diseases which include Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Healthy Immune System

A diverse plate goes a long way in improving your body’s overall immune system by providing it with the required nutrients.

Maintaining Body Functions

A wider selection of food items also helps you maintain your energy levels. It ensures your body functions normally throughout the day.

Strengthening Bones And Muscles

A balanced diet is crucial in strengthening your body. The wide variety of nutrients will make your bones, muscles, teeth, skin, and eyes stronger.

How To Diversify Your Plate?

Here are some ways you can diversify your plate to improve the overall nutrition balance in your meals.

Add Seasonal And Local Produce

You must include seasonal and fresh food items in your diet. Adding a mix of vegetables such as spinach, carrots, and broccoli will provide you with a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Proteins Are Necessary

Proteins are essential for tissue growth and repair in your body. Instead of just stuffing your meals with meat, try adding alternative sources such as eggs, tofu, chickpeas, and soya.

Healthy Fats Are Important

Apart from adding taste and fullness, healthy fats also carry a ton of nutritional value. Ensure that your plate has food items rich in Omega-3 and other fatty acids. They can be found in olive oil, nuts, and seeds.

Spices Provide Added Nutrition

Experimenting with herbs and spices can help maximize the taste and flavour of your dishes. Fresh herbs and spices such as rosemary provide your body with antioxidants whereas turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Honey On Empty Stomach: 5 Amazing Health Benefits of Eating Honey Daily In the Morning

Honey On Empty Stomach Health Benefits: Honey is a natural sweetener celebrated for its rich flavor, nutritional content, and numerous health benefits. A 100-gram serving of honey provides approximately 304 calories, primarily from carbohydrates, including natural sugars like fructose and glucose, which make it a quick and sustained energy source. While honey contains negligible protein and no fat, it offers trace amounts of essential vitamins such as vitamin C and B vitamins, along with minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron. Additionally, honey is packed with antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help combat oxidative stress and support overall health.

But, have you ever thought, about what may happen inside your body when you consume honey first thing in the morning? As per Ayurveda, eating honey on an empty stomach is a time-honoured tradition embraced by many cultures around the world. In this article, we look deeper into these health benefits and understand why you must add honey to your morning diet routine, especially during the winter.

5 Incredible Benefits of Eating Honey on an Empty Stomach Every Morning

Planning to add honey to your daily morning diet routine? Check out these amazing health benefits first:

Boosts Immunity

One of the standout advantages of having honey on an empty stomach is its amazing ability to enhance your immune system. Packed with antioxidants, honey fights off harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants play a crucial role in boosting your immune response, making colds and flu less likely. By regularly including honey in your diet, you're equipping your body with the support it needs to fend off infections, leading to overall better health.

Aids Digestion

Honey also works wonders for your digestive health. When you consume it in the morning, honey kickstarts your digestive system. Acting as a natural prebiotic, it promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in your gut, which is vital for a healthy digestive tract. Additionally, honey can soothe the stomach lining, alleviating issues like acidity and indigestion. So, starting your day with honey can pave the way for a healthier tummy.

Enhances Skin Health

Adding honey to your morning routine can do great things for your skin. Known for its moisturizing qualities, honey helps keep your skin hydrated and radiant. Its antibacterial properties prevent acne and various skin issues. When taken on an empty stomach, honey can contribute to a clearer complexion and help reduce the effects of aging, thanks to its nutrient-rich composition. In this way, honey serves as both a tasty treat and a natural beauty booster.

Provides Energy

If you are in need of a natural energy lift, honey is a fantastic option. It is packed with natural sugars, including fructose and glucose, which can provide a quick burst of energy. Consuming honey before breakfast can jumpstart your metabolism and equip you with the energy needed to tackle the day ahead. This is especially beneficial for athletes or anyone leading an active lifestyle, as honey offers a healthier alternative to sugary energy drinks.

Promotes Weight Loss

Finally, honey can support your weight loss goals. When enjoyed in moderation, honey can help stabilize blood sugar levels and curb cravings for unhealthy foods. Its natural sweetness satisfies sugar desires without the empty calories found in refined sugars. Plus, honey can rev up your metabolism, assisting your body in burning fat. By including honey in your morning routine, you may find it an effective ally in your weight loss journey.

Right Way To Consume Honey On Empty Stomach Daily

Integrating honey into your daily life is both easy and versatile. You might mix it with warm water or herbal tea for a comforting drink that also aids digestion. Another option is to combine honey with lemon juice to create a refreshing detox beverage. Honey can also be drizzled over oatmeal, yogurt, or whole-grain toast for a delightful breakfast. The choices are limitless, making it simple to reap the health benefits of honey every morning.

Health Benefits Of Ghee With Warm Water

Ghee, also known as clarified butter, is a traditional fat made by simmering butter to remove water and milk solids, leaving behind a golden, aromatic fat. It is widely used in Indian cuisine and Ayurveda for its rich flavour and therapeutic properties. Ghee is highly nutritious, containing fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, along with essential fatty acids. Its healthiness depends on portion size and dietary context. In moderation, ghee can provide energy, support digestion, and enhance nutrient absorption. Consuming it with warm water can improve digestion and act as a mild detoxifier, benefiting overall gut health. In this article, we discuss in detail how consuming ghee with warm water can provide amazing health benefits and how these benefits occur.

Here's how consuming ghee with warm water can boost your health

1. Aids digestion

Ghee contains butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid that promotes a healthy gut lining and supports digestive enzyme production. When consumed with warm water, it soothes the digestive tract, aiding in smoother digestion and preventing constipation.

2. Promotes detoxification

Ghee with warm water acts as a natural detoxifier. The combination helps flush out toxins (Ama) from the digestive system, cleansing the gut and enhancing metabolic functions.

3. Boosts metabolism

The healthy fats in ghee provide a quick energy source, which, when paired with warm water, kickstarts the metabolism. This combination can improve fat utilisation and support weight management.

4. Improves skin health

Rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, ghee enhances skin elasticity and hydration. Consuming it with warm water supports toxin elimination, indirectly benefiting skin health by reducing acne and dullness.

5. Strengthens immunity

Ghee's butyric acid supports gut health, which is closely linked to a robust immune system. Its nutrient profile, combined with warm water, fosters a balanced gut microbiome, bolstering immunity.

6. Balances hormones

Ghee contains healthy fats necessary for hormone synthesis. Drinking it with warm water can support hormonal balance, particularly during menstruation, menopause, or stress-induced imbalances.

7. Relieves constipation

The lubricating properties of ghee soften stools and enhance bowel movements. Warm water further aids this process by hydrating the digestive system, offering quick relief from constipation.

8. Supports joint health

Ghee is an excellent source of healthy fats that nourish connective tissues and reduce inflammation. Combined with warm water, it helps maintain joint flexibility and may alleviate arthritis symptoms.

9. Enhances cognitive function

In Ayurveda, ghee is regarded as brain food. Its healthy fats support brain function, memory, and focus. Drinking it with warm water ensures better absorption, providing mental clarity and energy.

10. Aids weight loss

Though high in calories, ghee can assist in weight loss when consumed in moderation. The combination of ghee with warm water promotes fat metabolism and curbs cravings, making it a beneficial addition to a weight management routine.

Add ghee and warm water to your diet today to achieve these amazing health benefits.

Breaking Barriers: Overcoming Male Infertility Challenges Caused by Diabetes

 Diabetes, a chronic condition often associated with high blood sugar, affects various aspects of health beyond the commonly known complications. One area significantly impacted, yet less discussed, is male fertility. For men, diabetes can interfere with reproductive health, particularly with sperm quality, hormone levels, and overall fertility potential. However, with targeted lifestyle changes, advanced medical interventions, and a proactive approach to health, men with diabetes can overcome these challenges and improve their chances of conception. Dr. Prinka Bajaj, Senior Consultant Fertility Specialist, Oasis Fertility shares all you need to know:

Understanding the Link Between Diabetes and Male Infertility

Diabetes, especially when not well-managed, can lead to hormonal imbalances that reduce levels of testosterone, the primary male hormone responsible for sperm production and libido. Additionally, elevated blood sugar levels can cause oxidative stress, a condition in which harmful free radicals damage cells, including sperm cells. This oxidative damage can affect sperm DNA integrity, motility (how well sperm move), and morphology (sperm shape), all of which are crucial for fertilization. Studies have shown that men with diabetes are at a higher risk for erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation and retrograde ejaculation, a condition where sperm moves backward into the bladder instead of exiting through the urethra.

Breaking Down Barriers with Lifestyle Adjustments

Lifestyle adjustments can play a transformative role in managing diabetes-related infertility. A nutrient-rich diet, regular physical activity, and a balanced sleep routine not only help regulate blood sugar but also support hormonal balance and reduce oxidative stress. Foods high in antioxidants, such as leafy greens, berries, and nuts, can help combat oxidative damage, while regular exercise promotes blood flow, benefiting both general health and reproductive function.

While infertility is often considered a female issue, it affects men and women nearly equally. Studies suggest that approximately 10 to 20 per cent of couples worldwide struggle with infertility, with about 10 per cent of men having issues related to sperm production or health. Maintaining a healthy weight is another crucial factor, as obesity, often linked with type 2 diabetes, can worsen hormonal imbalances and reduce testosterone levels. A combination of resistance training and aerobic exercises, even for as little as 30 minutes a day, can help regulate weight and boost both physical and mental well-being, essential for healthy fertility.

Medical Advances for Male Fertility

For men facing significant challenges, medical advancements offer hope. Fertility specialists can recommend targeted treatments like hormone therapy to correct hormonal imbalances or antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress. In more severe cases, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), can be used to enhance the chances of conception. ICSI, which involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg, is particularly useful for cases where sperm motility, morphology or count is low due to diabetes-related factors. Advanced sperm selection methods like Microfluidics or MACS can help select the sperm with lesser DNA fragmentation.

Embracing a Proactive Approach to Reproductive Health

Overcoming male infertility related to diabetes requires a proactive, multifaceted approach. Regular check-ups, blood sugar monitoring, and consultations with endocrinologists and fertility specialists allow men to address health issues early, making it easier to maintain control over their condition. Managing diabetes is not just about reducing blood sugar; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that supports overall health, including reproductive health.

While diabetes presents unique challenges for male fertility, these challenges are surmountable. With a commitment to health, support from medical professionals, and the integration of fertility-friendly lifestyle habits, men with diabetes can break through barriers and achieve their family-building goals. Empowerment through knowledge and action can transform diabetes from an obstacle into a manageable aspect of a fulfilling reproductive journey.