Suffering From PCOD? Here’s How You Can Reverse The Symptoms

Polycystic Ovarian Disease, or PCOD, is a medical condition in which a woman’s ovaries produce an excess of immature or partially mature eggs that eventually form cysts. This leads to enlarged ovaries and an increase in androgens, or male hormones, which disrupt the menstrual cycle and can cause symptoms like irregular periods, weight gain, hair thinning, and infertility. However, managing PCOD is possible with the right dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease): Signs And Symptoms

The symptoms of PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) can manifest at different stages of a woman’s life. For some, symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and excessive hair growth may appear around the time of their first period, as hormonal changes begin. In contrast, others may not notice any issues until later in life, often after experiencing significant weight gain or difficulties in conceiving.

The following are the most common symptoms of PCOD in women:

• Menstrual irregularities (oligomenorrhea)
• Missed or nonexistent menstruation (amenorrhea)
• Menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding
• Overgrowth of facial and body hair, notably on the back, belly, and chest
• Acne on the face, upper back, and chest
• Gaining weight
• Hair loss

Deepsikha Jain, a nutritionist who often posts health-related and nutritional information on her Instagram page, recently posted a video about PCOD and how to reverse its symptoms.

Here are three ways to reverse PCOD symptoms, as per Deepsikha Jain.

Eat A Diet High In Fibre

According to the nutritionist, it is crucial to have a high-fibre diet every day because it helps control insulin resistance and stabilizes blood pressure. Additionally, this directly affects the body’s hormonal balance, which may aid in treating PCOD symptoms.

Maintain A Fitness Regimen

For PCOD patients, maintaining a regular exercise regimen is crucial. Cardiovascular exercises and strength training may be combined. The hormonal balance is affected, and PCOD symptoms are lessened when the body is thinner and has more muscles.

Foods That Reduce Inflammation

According to the nutritionist, incorporate items that reduce inflammation into your everyday diet. The daily diet should include foods like avocado, berries, nuts & seeds, legumes, and olive oil. These meals aid in reducing PCOD symptoms and controlling inflammation in the body.

From Winter's Dryness to Summer's Oiliness: Vital Skincare Strategies for Every Season

 

With December upon us, it marks the arrival of winter and the commencement of seasonal shifts that can profoundly affect your skin. The drop in temperature, increased dryness, and other environmental conditions necessitate a reevaluation of your skincare regimen to ensure your skin remains healthy and glowing. Skin specialists highlight that the shift from warm to cooler months presents unique challenges, making it crucial to modify your skincare practices accordingly.

1. November to December: Encountering Winter's Arrival

As winter sets in, the air becomes even more arid, and cold temperatures may lead to additional skin problems such as redness, irritation, and flaking. Dr. Aparna notes, "In the colder months, the natural lipid barrier of the skin is weakened, resulting in poor moisture retention. Many individuals notice an increase in issues like eczema and dermatitis."

Layer Your Skincare: Dr. Santhanam recommends the use of serums that provide hydration and fortify the skin's barrier. "Apply a hydrating serum beneath your moisturizer to retain moisture," she advises. Opting for a sunscreen with full-light technology ensures not only sun protection but also moisture retention.

Utilize a Humidifier in Your Home: Indoor heating can sap moisture from your skin. "Employing a humidifier in your space helps maintain humidity in the air, preventing excessive dryness of your skin," states Dr. Santhanam.

2. December to January: Coping with Bitter Cold

December and January represent the coldest months, leaving your skin to endure the harshness of frigid temperatures and biting winds. "The severe cold can lead to chapping, cracking, and aggravation of chronic skin disorders such as psoriasis," remarks Dr. Aparna.

What You Can Do:

Shield Your Skin Outside: Always wear protective garments, hats, and gloves when going outside to protect your skin from harsh elements. Dr. Santhanam also advises applying a thick layer of sunscreen during this period, paying attention to areas like your neck, the back of the neck, lips, elbows, and ears.

Exfoliate Mindfully: While exfoliation is beneficial for removing old skin cells, Dr. Aparna cautions about being gentle. "Utilize a mild exfoliant once a week to avoid overly stripping your skin during the chilly months."

January to February: Readying for the Seasonal Transition

As winter starts to relent and days become longer, the cold air lingers, and your skin continues to confront challenges such as dryness and sensitivity. The transitional stretch from January to February may also bring fluctuating temperatures that could leave your skin disoriented. "This period often results in skin feeling dehydrated and dull due to the accumulated damage of winter," explains Dr. Aparna.

What You Can Do:

Incorporate Vitamin C and Niacinamide: With dullness being a frequent issue, Dr. Aparna suggests utilizing gentle vitamin C serums or niacinamide to rejuvenate radiance and balance skin tone.

Gradually Transition: As temperatures begin to rise, avoid making sudden changes to your skincare routine. Slowly move to lighter moisturizers while ensuring your skin stays adequately hydrated.

By providing your skin with the necessary care during this transition, you can aid in its recovery from winter's strain while getting it ready for the upcoming demands of spring.

By attentively tending to your skin through these seasonal changes, you can avert damage and keep it radiant and well-nourished throughout the year. Pay heed to your skin's needs and adjust your regimen as necessary to cater to its continually evolving requirements.

Amla Juice First Thing in the Morning: Five Incredible Health Perks of Starting Your Day with Indian Gooseberry Juice Every Day

 

Amla Juice First Thing in the Morning Health Advantages: Amla, often referred to as Indian gooseberry, is a petite green fruit celebrated in conventional Indian medicine for its myriad health advantages. This wintertime fruit is a powerhouse of nutrients. It boasts high concentrations of vitamin C, essential for enhancing the immune system and combating infections. In addition to vitamin C, Amla is abundant in fiber, calcium, iron, and various antioxidants such as flavonoids and tannins. This distinct blend of nutrients positions Amla as an optimal choice for anyone aiming to elevate their overall health. The fiber content in Amla promotes digestion, while the antioxidants assist in detoxifying the body. There are numerous ways to incorporate this remarkable fruit into your daily regimen; however, consuming its juice on an empty stomach stands out as one of the best methods.

Strengthens Immunity

One of the primary reasons to appreciate Amla juice is its ability to fortify your immune system. Rich in vitamin C, Amla acts as a potent antioxidant that protects your body from infections and illnesses. Consuming it on an empty stomach allows your body to better absorb the nutrients, enhancing your immunity. This routine can prove particularly beneficial during flu season, as it prepares you against possible illness.

Supports Digestion

Amla juice is well-renowned for its digestive benefits. It possesses dietary fiber that facilitates smooth digestion and wards off constipation. Starting your morning with Amla juice activates your digestive system, significantly aiding metabolism. It also regulates stomach acids and alleviates acidity and indigestion, rendering it an excellent natural solution for those desiring improved digestive health.

  Encourages Radiant Skin

If glowing skin is your goal, Amla juice might be the solution. The antioxidants found in Amla combat free radicals, decreasing signs of aging and imparting a youthful appearance. Furthermore, the vitamin C in Amla is crucial for collagen production, which is essential for skin elasticity. Daily consumption of Amla juice not only nourishes your skin internally but also helps attain that coveted natural glow, cherished by beauty enthusiasts.

Aids in Weight Reduction

Adding Amla juice to your morning routine can also bolster your weight loss endeavors. Low in calories yet high in fiber, this juice helps maintain a feeling of fullness for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Amla is also recognized for enhancing metabolism, allowing your body to effectively burn calories. Beginning your day with Amla juice can ignite your metabolism, making it easier to drop those persistent pounds.

Boosts Liver Health

Amla juice provides yet another remarkable advantage: it promotes liver wellness. The antioxidants in Amla assist in detoxifying the liver and enhancing its function, which is crucial for processing nutrients and eliminating toxins. A healthy liver significantly influences overall well-being, as it plays a vital role in digestion and metabolism. Consuming Amla juice in the morning gives your liver the support it requires for optimal performance.

Optimal Way to Consume Amla Juice on an Empty Stomach

To reap the benefits of Amla juice, it is vital to incorporate it into your routine correctly. For optimal results, consume it fresh, preferably made with organic Amla. Mix it with water or add a teaspoon of honey for a hint of sweetness. A small glass (approximately 30-50 ml) first thing in the morning ensures effective nutrient absorption, setting an invigorating tone for your day.

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.