Dehydration and Nutrient Losses in Summer Heat Waves in India Every year during the peak summer months, day time temperatures cross over 40 degrees Celsius in most cities in India and we are exposed to extreme environmental conditions like heat waves. Now the normal human body temperature ranges between 36.1 C and 37.2 C. While our bodies can function well enough in mild to moderate heat conditions, it's these extra few weeks during the summer months when heat waves are prevalent that can potentially lead to a host of health issues. Depending on the time of the day, our physical activity levels, our hydration and nutrient intake we may experience a myriad of symptoms like: Feeling thirsty Dry...
Liver The liver is the largest internal organ and the largest gland in the human body and can weigh about 1500 gm (1.5kg) in men and 1200 gm (1.2kg) in women. Liver is also the most complex organ, performing multiple functions like detoxification, bile formation, protein carbohydrate & lipid metabolism, erythropoietic function, vitamin & mineral metabolism, storage site for some micronutrients, etc. Fatty Liver Disease (FLD) Fatty Liver as it is commonly called, refers to the excess accumulation of fat in the liver cells which may overtime impact liver function and cause injury to the liver. Fatty Liver Disease can be of two types Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (ALD). Usually, fat accumulation...
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic and endocrine condition affecting women of reproductive age group worldwide. While there is no confirmed criterion stating the root cause of developing PCOS, there are certain factors that may collectively or individually contribute towards a positive diagnosis of PCOS. Common Causes for PCOS Genetic/Heredity Insulin resistance (IR) Hypothyroidism Poor gut microbiota Unmanageable chronic stress Overweight & obesity High androgen activity PCOS affects women in more than one way and can impact their health and wellbeing through: Reproductive abnormalities Abnormal menstrual cycle Increase in ovary size and/or cysts Anxiety Depression Hirsutism Low libido Skin pigmentation in neck, armpits, thighs Increasing the risk of type II diabetes Increasing the risk of dyslipidemia Increasing the...
Pregnancy is an important phase in a woman's life wherein she not only has to care for herself but also for the growing foetus inside her. A lot of growth, development and maintenance processes take place simultaneously during the course of the nine month pregnancy cycle. The pregnancy phase is divided into three trimesters with most dietary requirements changing with the beginning of the second trimester. The daily calorie requirement increases along with need to additional intake of certain vitamins and minerals. As a standard, an additional 300 kcals per day increase in calories is recommended during pregnancy. Additionally, a 30% increase in protein intake per day is what should be aimed for. Folic acid, Vitamin B12, Iron...
Managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) through diet can be tricky if we don't know what foods are permitted and which ones to avoid. Here in this section, we have mentioned some foods that most people are familiar with and consume readily that may not be helping with kidney disease management while others that can be consumed in limited portions. Overall, minerals such as sodium, potassium and phosphorus are usually the ones that are restricted in the diet (hence foods that contain them) based on individual health parameters, alongwith with the macronutrient protein. Foods To Avoid (CKD) Bread: whole wheat (has high phosphorus and potassium) Brown Rice: high phosphorus and potassium Banana: high potassium Dairy: high potassium, phosphorus and protein Cold Drinks:...
