DEAL WITH DIABETES

DEAL WITH DIABETES

On World Diabetes Day, Suggestions as few lifestyle

Changes to keep you fit…

Have you been instructed by your doctor to lose weight and to get on to a low-fat diet immediately?

Being diagnosed with diabetes entails drastic changes to your lifestyle. But experts says that awareness about the condition can help individuals deal with their problems effectively.

Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the US, and India accounted for about 50.8 million diabetes patients last year the largest of the 285 million diabetics in the world. Says consultant diabetologist, “One of the main factors responsible for the increase in cases of diabetes is the sedentary lifestyle that people follow these days.” Here are a few lifestyle modifications to improve the quality of life of young diabetics.

WATCH YOUR DIET

“Eat what you require rather than what you desire,” “The traditional eating behavior is the best’; follow a natural diet which excludes sugar processed carbohydrates, wheat and hydrogenated fats. Include whole grain cereals and vegetables to increase fiber intake. Avoid fried food at all costs.”

EXERCISE

If anybody should exercise, it’s men and women with diabetes. “Walking is the simplest and best form of working out”, he says, “Gymming is also helpful but consult with your doctors before plunging into it.”

WATCH YOUR WIEGHT

Never begin a weight loss diet on your own if you are a diabetic. Discuss the options with your doctor. “Weight loss is a challenge, but the benefits of losing the weight far outweigh the alternative of living the rest of your life with diabetes,” he remarks.

FIGHTING ACNE

FIGHTING ACNE

Skin Condition

Regular consumption of pickles, papads, spicy, fried oily and preserved food weakens the digestive system and triggers skin disorders

Acne is a common skin disorder affecting many teenagers mainly on the face, but it also appears on neck, scalp, chest, back, upper arms and shoulders

CAUSES OF ACNE

• Hormonal
• During menstrual cycle
• Normal skin bacteria

How Do Spread?

• Frequent wash changes the ph of skin and triggers the condition
• Irregular eating food
• Regular consumption of hot, salty food such as Pickles, papads, spicy food, fried and oily food, junk Food, preserved food, fast food etc, weakens the Digestive system
• Constipation and irregular bowel habits
• Other psychological factors such as grief, anger or Psychic

PRECAUTION

• Don’t press or prick acne unnecessarily
• Maintain hygiene
• Don’t wash or touch the acne again and again
• Avoid mental stress
• Do meditation and yoga
• Use fresh water, fresh air and sunlight
• Improve the skin condition
• Eat healthy and nutritious diet and always try to
• Avoid junk food, fast food prepared outside

DIET TIPS

• Consume fresh, nutritive and appropriate food
• Cut out fats and take leafy vegetables in plenty
• Take sufficient amount of water and fluids.

HERBAL TIPS

• Lodhra, dhanyaka and vacha with water
• Paste of ashwagandha, chandana, manjishta and Yshtimadhu with water
• Paste of lentil with curd and a few drops of neem oil
• Make a paste of haridra and chandana and apply on face

AYURVEDIC TIPS

Kumkumadi oil, Nimbadi oil, Chandanadi lepa, Manjisthadi vath, Aloe vera pulp, Haridrakhand, Arogyavardhini, Regular menstruagtion and keep bowel free

HOME TIPS

Use mix of Besan, turmeric powder, masur dhal powder with curd of tomato pulp.

SUGAR FREE

SUGAR FREE Tippler’s Diary

Most cocktails have a lot of sugar, so don’t work well for those who are watching their carbohydrate intake. Here are the most common components of cocktails and how to cut the carbs in each.

Gin, vodka, tequila, whiskey and rum are distilled spirits that by definition have no carbohydrate.

Carbonated mixers are either naturally carb-free (club soda, sparkling water, plain water) or come in diet versions (tonic water, ginger ale, cola and lemon-lime soda). Tonic water contains sugar unless it is a diet-type.

Bitters are often used in cocktails, but usually in very small amounts of much less than a teaspoon. A tablespoon of bitters usually contains five to seven grams of carbs.

PAINKILLERS IN PREGNANCY

PAINKILLERS IN PREGNANCY CAN MAKE SONS INFERTILE

Drugs Tied To Rise in Male Reproductive Disorders

Painkillers taken by pregnant women could expose their unborn sons to risk of infertility researchers say.

Prolonged to use of medicines such as paracetamol, aspirin and ibuprofen may harm the development of boys’ sexual organs.

Around half of women take over-the-counter painkillers during pregnancy, usually for head-aches, according to the journal Human Reproduction. But using these drugs may increase the risk of boys having undescented testicles, which can lead to poor sperm quality and testicular cancer in later life, reports the Daily Mail.

Scientists believe the painkillers may be behind the increase in male reproductive disorders in recent decades, along with exposure of fetuses to chemicals in the environment known as endocrine or hormone disruptive.

Women who used more than one type of painkillers simultaneously at any time while pregnant increased the risk seven-fold, the study said. But the most vulnerable stage is when a woman is between four and six months pregnant. During that time, taking one painkiller doubled the risk overall, when compared to women who did not consume these medicines.

Paracetamol doubled the risk, while ibuprofen or aspirin increased it four-fold. And using two painkillers together during this period increased the risk 16 fold, according to the study.

Henrik Leffers, senior scientist Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen, Denmark, who led the research, said mild painkillers acted as hormone disruptive, intensifying low-level exposure to environmental chemicals in the womb. Allan Pacey, of the University of Sheffield said. “I doubt that anyone would have suspected that common painkillers would have these effects”.

Doctors generally say women should avoid taking medicines while pregnant, but that paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin are considered safe in some conditions and at certain times.

Other experts said the findings were striking but should be interpreted with caution. “This study adds to the body of evidence about the effect of medicines on fetal development. However, due to study limitations further research is needed to draw firm conclusions about the effect of painkillers on male fertility,” said Neal Patel of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. Allan Pacey of Britain’s Sheffield University said the findings were “somewhat alarming”.

USE OF COMMON PAINKILLERS LIKE ASPIRIN & IBUPROFEN DURING PREGNANCY POSES HEALTH RISK TO BABY BOYS, SAYS A STUDY.

FASTING

F A S T F E A S T S

FASTING DOESN’T MEAN YOU LOMIT YOURSELVES TO DRAB OLD SALADS AND JUICES JAZZ UP YOUR HEALTHY DIET MENU……

Fasting is a wonderful new beginning –

But, thanks to that salivating tongue, foodies never find fasting fun even though they know the health benefits. So, nutritionists have taken up the responsibility of making fasting, fun with their little tricks and tips, a nutritionist says. “Bake, grill, boil, do anything but fry. If you fast on a regular basis, then go for boiled potato chats and garnish it with all the vegetables you like.

Instead of concentrating on the potatoes, you can concentrate on the other veggies. Beet root pagodas and sweet potato kheer are also good option.

Fasting can be fun.

All you need is a little determination and loads of vegetables, nuts and fruits. Nutritionist and health consultant says, “When you are fasting, have lots of fruits and nuts. Go for nuts and vegetables cooked with minimum oil. Make a salad out of bottle gourd and cucumber and spice it up with cumin or green/red chili. Slow cook whatever you are making so that the flavours come out. Start your fast with ragi puttu or rava upma, then go on to have bottle gourd and lime or a cucumber mint salad and end your day with potato yam tikkis.

Fast with moongdal, dosai and dhoklas, lentilpav bhaji with tomatoes and moong. Go for chamomile herbal infusions and organic food to relax”.

For those, who complain about the lack of choices in fasting? Nutritionist has some good news, “Juice fast, dry fast, tea fast, master cleanse fast and fasting for religious purposes or just to lose weight, choose what you want to do and why. Some people also fast to enjoy special fasting foods like mini sabudana salad and watermelon smoothies. A well garnished peanut curry with a dash of kokum or tamarind pulp, vegetable broth or apple, cranberries and grapefruit juices are also good options”.

Fasting may not exactly sound like fun but with the lemonade diet, the cookie diet and a juice fasting diet, it can be made interesting. Not only is the food consumed during fasting important, so is the food after the fast. Dietician says that one of the golden rules when fasting is to break the fast extremely slowly and carefully. Their insist “Drink lots of vegetable juices and consume well garnished fruits.

Oatmeal is also a great food to eat after wards. Do not over eat. Looks matter, whether it’s that of an individual or even something on the menu. Buy a fancy bowl, decorate it with some salad leaves, put some nicely chopped, chilled fruits and vegetables and feel like a queen (or a king). And yes, don’t forget to stand on that weighing machine after you break the fast.

Make your fast fun:

WITH A VARIETY OF OPTIONS, FASTING IS NO MORE BORING OR TOUGH.

ANTIBIOTICS HAVE LONG LASTING

ANTIBIOTICS HAVE LONG LASTING IMPACT ON GUT BACTERIA

Researchers of a new study have concluded that antibiotics leave long term impacts on gut flora

The scientists say that short courses of antibiotics prescribed to treat pathogenic bacteria can leave normal gut bacteria harboring antibiotic resistance genes for up to two years after treatment. They also believe that this reservoir increases the chances of resistance genes being surrendered to pathogenic bacteria, aiding their survival and suggesting that the long-term effects of antibiotic therapy are more significant than previously thought. Studies have shown that high levels of resistance genes can be detected in gut microbes after just 7 days of antibiotic treatment and that these genes remain present for up to two years even if the individual has taken no further antibiotics.

“The long-term presence of resistance genes in human gut bacteria dramatically increases the probability of them being transferred to and exploited by harmful bacteria that pass through the gut. This could reduce the success of future antibiotic treatment and potentially lead to new strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria,” says from the Swedish Institute for Infectious Disease Control.

The review highlights the necessity of using antibiotics prudently.

“Antibiotic resistance is not a new problem and there is a growing battle with multi -drug resistant strains of pathogenic bacteria. The development of new antibiotics is slow and so we must use the effective drugs we have left with care, “Jen-berg added. The study is published in the latest issue of journal Microbiology.

HIGH HEELS INJURE

HIGH HEELS INJURE OVER 3mn WOMEN

More than three million women have received medical attention or been rushed to hospital because of their passion for killer heels

Researchers say that a fifth of women have gone to such extreme lengths to wear trendy shoes that they have ended up twisting their ankle or tearing a tendon.

And a third has fallen flat on their face as a result of their heels, with many damaging their teeth and breaking their wrists.

The poll of 3000 women found other injuries sustained in the name of fashion include broken ankles and twisted knees, reports the Daily Mail. But six in ten said they would grimace and continue to wear a pair of uncomfortable shoes if they were complimented on their foot-wear on a night out.

Comfort shoe specialist said, “It’s incredible to imagine the pain and discomfort women endure for a pair of killer heels or an ill-fitting impulse sale bargain.

“Buying shoes can be hard work as women tend to buy shoes that look good with an outfit, and then worry about the pain later.”

The international-wide study of women aged 18-65 also found that 89% admitted uncomfortable shoes had ruined an evening.

Sixty-one percent revealed that due to uncomfortable shoes, they have spent an entire evening sitting down. Eighty percent have bought a trendy pair of shoes even after knowing for sure that they do not fit.

Play Safe: WOMEN WEARING HIGH-HEELED

SHOES HAVE ENDED UP TWISTING

THEIR ANKLE OR TEARING A TENDON

TEETH WHITENERS

HOME – MADE TEETH WHITENERS CAUSE LASTING DAMAGE

SAY NO: Some whitening methods can break down the enamel covering on teeth, leaving the rest of the tooth susceptible to decay.

All those who opt for do it-yourself (DIY) natural whitening methods for sparkling teeth, because trips to the dentist are out of their price range, may be only trading one problem for another, claim dentists.

According to experts, whitening home-remedies promoted online by people with no dental experience can cause lasting damage to the teeth and gums.

Baking soda, salt, soap, ash, hydrogen peroxide, low grade bleaching gels, and even special toothpastes may sound like a good alternative to the expensive professional treatments, but these are downright dangerous and a complete waste of precious money experts aver.

One of the British Dental Association stated, “The hard tissue of the teeth requires strong chemicals to whiten it that are only safe for use by properly trained clinicians.”

“It could also cost them money, because having problems repaired by a dentist after attempts at self-whitening could cost many times what would have been paid for a proper, professional treatment by a dentist in the first place.”

Self-treatment can cause lasting damage to dental health.

Some of the methods can break down the enamel covering on the tooth susceptible to decay and erosion. They can also cause long-term damage to the gums.

Baking soda is a cleaning agent and deodorizer, which may get rid of the easier stains and make the teeth sparkle more.

However, baking soda is very abrasive, and its regular use has the potential to damage the enamel of the teeth.

Citric acid in lemon juice and orange peels is another popular way to whiten your teeth at home because of its natural bleaching properties. But this method is highly advised against by dentists.

The citric acid found in the fruit eats away at the enamel and speeds up tooth decay. It doesn’t actually bleach the teeth, but removes the enamel.

BOOSTS MATHS ABILITY

 

ZAPPING THE BRAIN BOOSTS MATHS ABILITY

A zap of electricity to the brain can make you a brighter spark at mathematics, new research has shown.

Scientists have found passing a low current through a specific brain region can boost mathematical ability. They believe the technique may help people with dyscalculia or ‘number blindness’.

But it is important to get the wiring right. If electricity flows in wrong direction it has opposite effect, creating a person with a poor head for figures. The same team of experts previously showed temporary dyscalculia could be induced with electrical brain stimulation.

Lead researcher Cohen Kadosh said, ‘We are not advising people to go around giving themselves electric shocks, but we are extremely excited by the potential of our findings and are now looking into the underlying brain changes

Sources: The Times of India

PANCREAS – TRANSPLANT

PANCREAS – TRANSPLANT BREAKTHROUGH RAISES HOPES FOR DIABETICS

SWEET SUCCESS

The Da Vinci Shdi robot’ carries out the transplant at Pisa's University Cisanello Hospital

Pisa (Italy): Italian doctors have carried out the world’s first robotically-assisted pancreatic transplant in an operation that could help diabetes sufferers everywhere, they said.

The robotically assisted operation “creates new prospects for the treatment of diabetics, because its “mini-invasive” nature strongly reduces post-operation complications, the team at the university hospital in Pisa said. The robotic technique allows surgeons to carry out the transplant through three small holes and a 7cm incision, the hospital said.

This will put an end to the decades-old dilemma of whether it’s possible to do pancreatic transplants because the operation is so invasive when done in the traditional way.” Ugo Boggi, who heads the team, said.

The transplant was carried out on a 43-years old mother of two who had suffered from the type one diabetes since she was 24 years old and had already had a kidney transplant. The patient suffered no complications from the three hour operation.

Pancreatic transplants have been very invasive until now because of the organ’s vascular structure and the fragility of diabetic patients, who in 50% of cases develop post operative problems. The medical team carried out the operation with the assistance of the “Da Vubcu SHDI robot”-a large machine with several arms – designed in the multidisciplinary Robotic Surgery center in Pisa.

HEART TALK

H E A R T T A L K

Eating smart for your heart

One of the prescribed modifications in our day-to-day habits to prevent heart disease is a change in diet. We tell you how

In the case of healthy eating, one’s overall eating patterns are more important than obsession over individual foods. No single food can make you magically healthy, so your goal should be to include a variety of healthy foods cooked in a healthy manner into your diet, and make these habits your new lifestyle. When it comes to eating, a little bit of everything is the key. Our body needs all foods in moderation. While saturated and trans fats present in foods like-puff pastries are roadblocks to a healthy heart, unsaturated fats like those present in vegetable oils, olive oil and nuts like walnuts and almonds are essential for a good heart.

Make a heart-healthy diet a part of your daily routine by eating right. You can enjoy your favorite food by learning the art of the heart-healthy toggle-a switch in the intake of food you eat. Substitute Maida products like bread, noodles and pasta with whole wheat/multigrain ones.

Make your diet rich in fibred by including various fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans. A rough guide would be to make sure that your plate has fruits/vegetables in all colours and varieties. Give up your sugar and salt habit-add flavour to your food by using herbs and seasonings like coriander, mint and lemon juice. Adopt healthier methods of cooking, like-steaming, pressure cooking, boiling, stir frying and baking.

The biggest challenge is to overcome the odds and stick to low-fat eating while dining out at restaurants or a party. When you start out, this may seem like a mammoth task, but it is easy to learn.

• Snack sensibly before eating out
• Salad bars are helpful. But avoid creamy dressings
• Go for boiled/steamed food in place of fried foods
• Avoid second helpings even in your favorite foods
• Do not add extra sugar or salt into your food
• Choose a low fat dessert/fruit

A healthy heart is a result of a healthy lifestyle. Educating and inculcating healthy habits at home will create a healthy generation.

REMOVING A BREAST

Removing a Breast

NO MORE AMPUTATION

Removing a breast is not the only answer to breast cancer treatment as medical sciences are evolving…..

If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, you no longer have to live without a breast. With a breakthrough medical innovation for treating the deadly C, a patient’s breasts are conserved instead of having to be removed.

Here is what the conservational method entails:

WHAT IS IT?

The conservational method is one of the most recent developments in breast cancer treatment.

The concept of breast conservation helps survivors psychologically too. After a mastectomy (or complete removal of breasts due to cancer), it is usually difficult for women to gather their interest for sex. The breast conservation method helps a woman feel herself after the surgery.

“The procedure is one initiated about 5-6 years ago. It involves retaining a women’s breast against the removal of it completely”, says an expert, Breast Cancer specialist.

A lot of researches have described the use of radiation therapy in the breast conservation method.

COST

An average of INR Rs.30, 000 to Rs.40, 000

NEEDED FOR RECOVERY

Since it is usually followed by radiation the recovery can take at least two months.

SIDE EFFECTS

The only side effect that the patient experiences are the skin of her breasts might get darkened or pigmented. Experts are explains, “To treat breast cancer the basic

Treatments still remain the same-surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. However, the newer drugs today are much better and effective”.

The survival rates of women, undergoing these therapies, have increased. Today, surviving or increasing the years of life via the newer drugs has changed for the better.

Depending on the type of cancer and on the doctor treating you, the three treatments can be done in the order that is believed to be best for you.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

It is advisable for women to go for regular checkups to prevent breast cancer

In fact even women of a younger age who are genetically or otherwise prone to the cancer should start their checkups early.

Early detection is the best mantra to cure breast cancer.

RISK OF BREAST CANCER

PICK YOUR HOSPITAL

A woman’s risk of breast cancer approximately doubles if she has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, and daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer

Cancer is an ailment that requires focused and intense care for the affected patient. We tell you what parameters to go by while choosing a hospital for treatment.

Breast cancer is slowly becoming the most common cancer among Women, it spells physical and emotional trauma for not just the patient but a woman’s close friends and family. That’s why getting the right treatment and choosing the right hospital plays a very important role. After all, “Early detection is the key when it comes to treating breast cancer,’ says expert practitioner of a Radiologist.

She specifies a few parameters to bear in mind before deciding on a hospital. “Choosing a hospital to treat breast cancer usually depends on the stage of the cancer,” she says.

The first step would be diagnosis. “A mammography or a zoography is done to detect a lump,” she says. Thus, facilities for the same have to be up-to-date. The second step is an FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) or a biopsy is carried out to confirm if the growth is cancerous. “Post this, surgery can be undergone depending on the size of the tumour, says a Delhi-based Oncologist.

The NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Health care Providers) is the highest authority that gives accreditation to hospitals. Here are a few main criteria stated by them.

The hospital should have excellent patient care facilities. All support facilities like requisition of tests, medicines, nurse-doctor co-ordination, infection control practices, training, etc. should be up to the mark

Internal activities like documentation of patients’ reports, job descriptions and checklists should be closely followed by the staff

All process-driven activities like registration, pre-surgery, Peri-surgery and post-surgery procedures, discharge and follow-up with the patient post-discharge should function smoothly too

All machinery and equipment required for detection and surgery should be maintained and upgraded on a regular basis

HOSPITALS SHOULD ALSO PROVIDE PATIENTS WITH:

All information on the proposed treatment, expected results, possible complications and expected costs

Privacy during examination and treatment

The option to refuse treatment

Information about procedures as well as ask for consent before administering anesthesia, blood transfusion and other such high-risk procedures

Details on how to file a complaint as well  access to his\her clinical records

BREAST CANCER

ARE YOU PRONE TO BREAST CANCER?

Breast cancer can affect anyone. However, some women might be more prone to it. Here are some factors than increase the risk.

PCPS / PCOD

Breast Cancer can also be caused due to hormonal imbalance, says cancer specialist. Hence, having PCOS (Poly-cystic Ovarian Syndrome). PCOS is a condition where ovulation does not take place and the unripe eggs remain in the ovaries. PCOD (Poly cystic Ovarian Disease) could also increase the risk of breast cancer as it is caused due to hormonal imbalances.

Breast cancer has been linked to the production of the female hormone oestrogen. O estrogen is counteracted by the hormone progesterone, which is produced in surge during ovulation. Since women suffering from PCOS skip ovulation's, this progesterone surge does not occur, leading to the unchecked rise in the oestrongen levels. Hence women with PCOS have oestrogen dominance in their body and are more prone to cancers like the one of the breast.

“PCOD patients also tend to be obese; another reason that might put them at a risk of breast cancer, “says experts. “Women must try to maintain their ideal weight. Obese women tend to succumb to breast cancer more often than those who are not,” he adds.

In most cases, cancer caused due to hormonal imbalances can be cured with medication that inhibits the production of these hormones.

NON – BREASTFEEDING / NON- CHILDBEARING

“Breastfeeding causes you progesterone levels to go up and tells your body that your hormones are functioning normally,” says experts, Progesterone protects women from breast cancer. It also keeps the breast nerves and cells active, making them stronger and more resistant to cancer-related mutations.

GENETIC MUTATION

Two genes – BRCA1 (breast cancer 1) and BRCA 2 (breast cancer 2) – are associated with breast cancer. These are tumour suppressor genes that prevent cells from being cancerous. However, mutations in these genes could make you more prone to getting breast cancer. This abnormality could be passed on to your children putting them at risk too.

The BRCA genes are not the only genes associated with breast cancer and heredity but they are considered the most prominent ones so far.

A HISTORY OF BREAST CANCER

Women, who have had cancer in one breast, are likely to get it in the other. “The cause may be the same as that which led to the cancer the first time,” say experts, breast cancer specialist.

Women who may have got the cancer due to abnormal fences, hormonal imbalance or otherwise could have a relapse too. “It is advisable for them to go for check-ups more frequently than others”, expert Doctors adds.

EXPOSURE TO RADIATION

“Today, thanks to technology, we are exposed to radiation everywhere – computers, phones and television too. Exposure to these radiations makes a person more prone to cancer”, says.

Also, working in a work atmosphere that exposes you to high radiation (excessive X – rays or other radiations) puts you at a greater risk.

BREAST CANCER

FACTS ABOUT BREAST CANCER

It’s time to spread the word about breast cancer as Breast Cancer Awareness Month is underway. This is what you need to know.

Pop star Kylie Minogue overcame it. Hollywood actor Christina App-legate survived it. Famous singer and actor Olivia Newton John faced it. These women fought breast cancer bravely and are leading normal lives today.

But there’s more to breast cancer than these survival stories. There are many facts about breast cancer that we don’t know. Even today we talk about this condition in hushed tones and refuse to acknowledge its seriousness.

We give you ten facts about this cancer that you should know. Hopefully, this will help you sit up and understand the significance of regular check-ups.

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among Indian Women.

Approximately one lakh new cases of breast cancer are detected every year in the sup-continent.

The risk to breast cancer is one in 30 in urban India and one in 65 in rural India. These high figures are due to the failure in detection in early stages.

Early detection can increase chances of cure in up to 80% of all cases.

In the last decade, breast cancer has overtaken cervical cancer as the most common cancer among women in major metropolitan cities like Bangalore, Mumbai and Delhi.

Approximately 90,000 breast cancer cases were detected in 2008 with over 48,000 deaths in the sub-continent. If this condition is not detected sooner, then it’s estimated that these figures could go up to 1,00,000 with over 55,000 deaths by 2010.

Goa has the highest number of breast cancer cases in the country.

According to the World Health Organization, cancer is all set to outpace heart ailments as the biggest killer in the next two years, it also says that cancer diagnosis has been steadily rising and will soon touch the 12 million mark this year. By 2030, new cancer cases could rise to 27 million with up to 17 million deaths.

Breast cancer is on the rise largely due to changing lifestyle and dietary patterns among women in urban India. With fewer women opting for babies and lactating for lesser time than their mothers, they are at a higher risk of facing this condition.

One of the biggest fears that keep women from going in for breast check-ups is the fear of losing a breast. However, treatments available in India today have reached a level of sophistication where you don’t have to lose a breast to cancer. This is why it’s important to create awareness about regular check-up. So what are you waiting for? Go set a reminder on your phone now.

HEART TALK

HEART TALK

With over 35,000 heart surgeries, over 20 heart transplants and a famous and leading Doctor in Chennai has successfully put Chennai on the global heart care map. From performing the first successful coronary artery bypass surgery to the first infant cardiac surgery and the first heart-and-lung transplant, Doctor has several medical landmarks to his credit. He tells us about Chennai’s present position in cardiac care and the need for technological innovations in this discipline.

Chennai is touted as a growing medical hub. Where does the city stand in terms age groups. In the last decade, we have acquired the technical know-how to conduct both off-pump coronary heart surgery and pediatrics heart surgery.

It is popular knowledge that as Indians, we are inherently prone to heart diseases. What preventive steps should one take to address this?

Doctors and hospitals are coming forward through mass campaigns and outreach program's to create awareness about the risk factors with respect to coronary heart disease that include smoking, cholesterol, diet and lifestyle. More than cure of providing world-class infrastructure and technology in cardiac care?

Chennai is on par with any other developed country in terms of quality care and cutting edge treatment technology in cardiology. When I came to the city in 1975, I could sense it potential. Although medical tourism is fairly new diction in the field of medicine, it was a trend that was prevalent in the city during the 70s and 80s. We had patients coming all the way from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Africa even then. As for cardiac care, whether it is bypass surgery, infant surgery, heart transplant, laser surgery or heart-and-lung transplant, the city is filled with skilled doctors and world class technology to treat patients across all prevention is Clearly the focus area. Most cases of adult heart diseases are lifestyle related. While 30% of heart failures occur due to family history and genetic factors, 70% occur due to a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits. India is set to become the cardiac capital of the world. The need of the hour, as we keep stressing, is to improve the quality of life. It should be started at the grass roots level by educating children on the need to control one’s diet, exercise, meditate and de-stress. The government should also take initiatives to develop rural areas, by bringing in technology, manpower and hospitals. We do not have any registry or statistics to track down the number of people suffering from heart diseases in the country every year. It is important that the systems and processes are put in place.

Rheumatic heart disease and congenital heart disease are becoming more common in the country. Are they controllable? What about treatment for the same?

Rheumatic heart disease is a condition whereby heart valves are damaged by a streptococcal infection, such as environment, hygiene and sanitation contribute to this disease; it mainly impacts people from the lower strata of the society. Although treatment us available, it is quite costly and therefore, cannot be afforded by the weaker sections of the society where it is more widespread. It can be controlled only by practicing personal hygiene and keeping the surrounding environment clean. As for congenital heart disease, which is a condition that someone is born with, it is widespread around the world and is not something that can be prevented. We have treatments available on par with the best in the world.

What is the future of heart care in the country?

Currently, the focus is on developing cutting-edge technology at the molecular level. Tissue engineering, genetic engineering and stem cells are thrust areas of medical research. While stem cells will help regenerate damaged hearts muscles, tissues will help create artificial valves for children. Genetic engineering, on the other hand, will detect defects in the heart in advance. In five years, the heart care system in the country will be completely revolutionized.

THE NEED OF THE HOUR, AS WE KEEP STRESSING, IS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE. IT SHOULD BE STARTED AT THE GRASSROOTS LEVEL BY EDUCATING CHILDREN ON THE NEED TO CONTROL ONE’S DIET, EXERCISE, MEDITATE AND DE – STRESS.

YOGA FOR YOUR EYES

YOGA FOR YOUR EYES

SIMPLE WAYS IN WHICH YOGA CAN MAKE YOUR EYES HEALTHY
Step – 1
Sit straight and raise your right arm to shoulder level
Now clench your fingers into a first, keeping the thumb out and facing upwards keep the arm in line with your eyes and look at the thumb without blinking.
Hold this posture for as long as you can
Move your arm towards your right but keep your eyes on the thumb. Don’t turn your face
Follow the thumb’ with your eyes only. When you are not able to see the thumb any more, bring it back to the original position and close your eyes.
Let your eyes rest for a minute. Repeat with the left hand. Do this twice for each hand.
Step – 2
Raise your arm to eye level and again clench your fingers into a first, keeping the thumb out and facing up wards. Now, bend your arm at the elbow, so that your thumb comes closer to your eyes in a vertical position.
Keep your eyes fixed on the thumb and bring it close to your nose, till you feel a strain Then, return it to its original position slowly, still keeping your eyes fixed on it
Close your eyes for a minute. Repeat twice

OTHER EXERCISES:

• Keep your face and neck absolutely straight.
• Open your eyes as wide as you can and rotate them in a clockwise and in an anti-clockwise direction very slowly. Repeat five times for each direction.
• Look at the tip of your nose. Your face and neck should stay straight and only your eyes should move. Then, close your eyes and let them rest for a minute. Open your eyes again and try to focus on the spot between your eyebrow. Close your eyes and rest for a minute. Repeat twice.
• Open and shut your eyes, slowly at first and then in quick succession. Rotate 25-30 times and then close your eyes and allow them to rest for two minutes
• Rub your palms together till they feel warm. Then place your palms on your eyes. When you stop feeling the warmth, remove palms.

MAKE YOUR EYE YOGA REGIMEN MORE EFFECTIVE

• Walk barefoot on dew-laden grass early in the morning
• Fill your mouth with water and splash cold water on your eyes.
• Do this three to five times in a day.
• Avoid maintaining too bright or too dark an ambiance in your living room. While working, always ensure that the light source is behind you, ideally towards the left
• Always protect your eyes from dust, smoke and intense light.
• HOME EYE CARE
• Add ½ cup water to triphala powder and mix well. Rinse your eyes well with this mix every morning
• Soak five almonds in water overnight. In the morning, peel them and grind them coarsely with five daigi mirch (pot chili). Chew well
  Soak cotton pads in rosewater and place these pads over your eyes.
• Relax for then minutes.
• Vitamin A – Prevents night blindness
• Sources: Carrot, apricot, tulip, green leafy
• Vegetables like spinach, broccoli
• Vitamin C – Reduces risk of glaucoma and mascular degeneration
• Sources: Orange, lemon, papayas, tomato, cantaloupe,
  Strawberry, mango, broccoli
• Vitamin E – Reduces risk of cataracts it is also called the anti-ageing vitamin
• Sources: Almonds, sunflower seeds and oil, peanuts,
  Vegetable oil, whole grains, sweet potatoes

BENEFITS OF SUN BATH

SUN BATH

The sun is the source of all energy and power. You derive energy and power from the sun. If the sun does not shine for a day or two on account of clouds, your vitality falls to a low level and you are not in good spirits. Flowers, plants, animals and men rejoice as soon as the sun rises above the horizon. The sun supplies energy to all planets and living beings, and yet its energy is never exhausted. Its energy is inexhaustible because it derives its energy from the inexhaustible source – the Atman.

The rays of the sun bestow on us wonderful health. The Vedas have glorified the rising sun. Ayurveda has extolled its efficacy. The sages have sung its praise in a variety of ways.

Build your house on the western side of a river, lake or tank. Then you will daily enjoy the reflected light, which is more beneficial and potent than the direct rays. The rays of the rising sun are a blessing from God for the preservation of health as well as for the cure of diseases. The rays of the sun possess antiseptic and germicidal properties. Expose your blankets, bed sheet, pillows and mattress to the sun once in fifteen days. In the rays of the sun you will find a cheap and easily available tonic, a disinfectant, an antiseptic and potent germicide.

Sunlight is a food. You can make Vitamin ‘D’ by exposing your naked body to the sun. The skin and the nerves will absorb the energies of the sunlight. The sunlight provides the heat needed to sustain life.

Sunlight as a healer of leprosy and various other skin diseases was known to the ancients. They built temples dedicated to the sun. The temple of Knar was built upon a tradition that Samba, the son of Sri Krishna, was stricken with leprosy because he saw his father in the act of connubial pleasure. When entreated to be forgiven, Krishna asked Samba to worship the sun in order to be freed of the loathsome disease. Accordingly he did so and was cured. In Egypt, the sun god is Ra; in Greece, Apollo’ in Phoenicia, the sun. In Syria also the sun and moon are worshiped. In France and Germany the peasants even now take off their hats to the rays of the sun. The sun is looked at and worshiped by Hindus when they take a bath in the morning.

The morning sun gives out ultra-violet rays, as does also the evening sun. If persons suffering from leprosy and other skin diseases strip themselves of all clothing and remain in the sun naked till their body is properly tanned, then the sun’s rays will penetrate their body and work wonders there. Only the head must be protected from the sun. Besides leprosy, tuberculosis, rheumatism, obesity, anemia, neurasthenia, eczema, colds, coughs, rickets, diseases of the teeth, etc, can also be treated with the sun’s rays.

Wear a thin light garment and walk on the western bank of a river, on the west side of the sea, a lake or tank early in the morning at sunrise. Run also. You will doubtless enjoy a sunbath. Practice asanas and physical exercises in the sun. Expose your mouth to the rays of the rising sun. Open it wide. Let the rays penetrate your nostrils also. Close your eyes when you expose your mouth. Practice deep-breathing exercise and pranayama in the sun.

The various parts of the body should receive a regulated sun-bath. Turn the body round frequently. Bask in the sun. Expose your body to the rays of the sun for a short time. Lie down on the ground on blanket or lie on a cot. (If the rays are very hot, cover your back with a green plantain leaf.) This will prove useful in lumbago and rheumatism and diseases of the skin.

Have sunlight treatment for the eyes. You will have clear vision. You need not take recourse to spectacles. First, sit in the sun, Close your eyes. Slowly move your head from side to side. Let the sun shine directly on the closed eyelids for ten or thirty minutes. Let the sun shine directly on the closed eyelids for ten or thirty minutes. Let the eyeballs also move with the movement of the head, and not against. Now, turn your back to the sun or come into the shade. Do not open your eyes. Cover the eyes with the palms of the hands for five or ten minutes. This is palming. Have the sun treatment in the morning and evening, 7 a.m. and 5p.m. Let the exposure of the eyes to the sun be gradual. When the eyes get accustomed to the light, you can gradually have stronger light.

The sages of yore who had knowledge of the curative power of the rays of the sun revealed the mysteries of the sun and its beneficial rays, and the uses of this radiant energy.

Even in the West, doctors are using the rays of the sun as a powerful therapeutic agent in the treatment of diseases. They call this heliotherapy. In the sanatoriums in the Alps the consumptive

Patients are directly exposed to the mild rays of the sun. In olden days in India babies were put in the cradle and their bare bodies exposed to the rising sun. In California and other parts of the West boys and girls now take sun-bath.

Whence comes the mysterious power in the sun which causes the seeds to germinate and flowers to turn into fruits? Whence comes this radiant energy in the sun which bestows wonderful health, power and vigour to living begins? Whence comes this power to heal? Whence comes the vital energy in the sun that invigorates and galvanizes the young and rejuvenates and vitalizes the old? Whence comes this vegetative vigour which enables the plants to synthesize the vitamins? The sun derives its power and energy from Atman or the Eternal, the Absolute, the Sun of suns, the Light of lights, the Source of everything , the first of all causes, the store-house of all energies. Brahman willed; the sun came into being to bestow health and happiness to all beings.

Repeat the twelve names of the sun at sunrise:

1. MITRAYA NAMAH
2. RAVAYE NAMAH
3. SURYAYA NAMAH
4. BHANAVE NAMAH
5. KHAGAYA NAMAH
6. PUSHNE NAMAH
7. HIRANYAGARBHAYA NAMAH
8. MARICAYE NAMAH
9. ADITYAYA NAMAH
10. SAVITRE NAMAH
11. ARKAYA NAMAH
12. BHAASKARAYA NAMAH

He who repeats this at sunrise will possess wonderful health, vigour and vitality. He will be free from any kind of disease of the eye. He will have powerful eyesight. Pray in the sun in the early morning before sunrise;

• O Lord, Suryanarayana, the Eye of the world, the Eye of God
• Give me health and strength, vigour and vitality
• Repeat the prayer of the Isavasya Upanishads, slokas 15 and 16

The face of Truth is covered by golden vessels. Remove, O Sun, the covering, so that I, who am devoted to truth, may behold it. O Pushan (nourisher of all), the only seer (sole traveler of the heavens), controller of all, Surya, son of Prajapati, disperse thy rays and gather up thy burning light; I behold thy glorious form, I am He, the purusha within Thee.

In the words of the Yajur Veda:

O Sun of suns you are all-energy, give me energy; you are all-strength, give me strength; you are all-powerful, give me power.

Sources: Swami Sivananda – Health & Hatha Yoga Book

BLOOD PRESSURE

BLOOD PRESSURE

• Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels
• Arteries are vessels that carry blood from the pumping heart to all the tissues and organs of the body
• Blood pressure is generated by the heart pumping blood into the arteries and regulated by the response by the arteries to the flow of blood
• By convention, an individual's blood pressure is expressed as systolic/diastolic blood pressure, for example, 120/80
• The systolic blood pressure (the top number) represents the pressure in the arteries as the muscle of the heart contracts and pumps blood into them
• The diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) represents the pressure in the arteries as the muscle of the heart relaxes after it contracts
• Blood pressure always is higher when the heart is pumping than when it is relaxing
• Systolic blood pressure for most healthy adults falls between 90 and 120 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg)
• Normal diastolic blood pressure falls between 60 and 80 mm Hg
• Current guidelines define normal blood pressure as lower than 120/80.

Low Blood Pressure

• Low blood pressure (hypo tension) is pressure that is so low that it causes symptoms or signs due to the low flow of blood through the arteries and veins
• When the flow of blood is too low to deliver enough oxygen and nutrients to vital organs such as the brain, heart, and kidney, the organs do not function normally and may be permanently damaged
• Unlike high blood pressure, low blood pressure is defined primarily by signs and symptoms of low blood flow not by a specific blood pressure number
• Some individuals may have a blood pressure of 90/50 with no symptoms of low blood pressure and therefore do not have low blood pressure
• However, others who normally have high blood pressure may develop symptoms of low blood pressure if their blood pressure drops to 100/60
• The development of lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting upon standing caused by low blood pressure is called orthostatic hypotension
• Normal individuals are able to compensate rapidly for the low pressure created by standing
• When there is insufficient blood pressure to deliver blood to the coronary arteries (the arteries that supply blood to the heart's muscle), a person can develop chest pain or even a heart attack
• When insufficient blood is delivered to the kidneys, the kidneys fail to eliminate wastes from the body, for example, urea and creatinine, and an increase in their levels in the blood occur
• Shock is a life–threatening condition where persistently low blood pressure causes organs such as kidney(s), liver, heart, lung, and brain to fail rapidly

High Blood Pressure

• Blood pressures over 130/80 are considered high
• High blood pressure (hbp) or hypertension means high pressure (tension) in the arteries
• High blood pressure does not mean excessive emotional tension, although emotional tension and stress can temporarily increase blood pressure
• Normal blood pressure is below 120/80; blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89 is called "pre–hypertension" and a blood pressure of 140/90 or above is considered high
• High blood pressure increases the risk of developing heart disease, kidney disease, hardening of the arteries, eye damage and brain damage
• The diagnosis of high blood pressure is important so efforts can be made to normalize blood pressure and prevent complications
• Blood Pressure is the measurement of pressure of the blood flowing through your blood vessels (called arteries) against the vessel walls. Med India's simple tool alerts you if for your age your blood pressure is abnormal by displaying the normal values
• This measurement is important if you are using a home electronic device to check your blood pressure. Please remember to put on the cuff properly and if your pressure is high check it again when you are more relaxed. Please remember that your pressure may be higher after a meal or exercise.

Some Of Interesting Facts

• High Blood Pressure- the heart exerts more force to pump the same quantity of blood within the same time
• Main Reasons for high blood pressure: hereditary, mental tension, excess intake of common salt, over-weight, sedentary life- style, smoking and excess intake of alcohol.

HYPERTENSION OR BLOOD PRESSURE MAY BE DIVIDED INTO THREE TYPES

1. Mild Hypertension: The systolic blood pressure ranges between 140 and 160 and the diastolic blood pressure ranges between 90 and 100
2. 2. Moderate Hypertension: The systolic blood pressure ranges between 160 and 200 and the diastolic blood pressure ranges between 100 and 120
3. Severe Hypertension: The systolic blood pressure is above 200 and the diastolic blood pressure is above 120.

Please note - Values discussed are all in mm of Hg

View Blood Pressure – Animation

Level of Severity

Systolic Blood Pressure

Diastolic Blood pressure

Mild Hypertension 140-160     90-100

Moderate Hypertension 160-200   100-120

Severe Hypertension Above 200  Above 120

Average Blood Pressure

For young people – 120/80 mmHg

For old people – 140/90 mmHg

ABDOMINAL - YOGASANAS

ABDOMINAL MUSCLES

Determining the best abdomen exercises for women for women is a topic of great interest since everyone admires firm abdominal muscles and many of us are trying to achieve it for ourselves.
The best abdomen exercises for women should help attain this goal without risk of injury. The abdominal exercises we outline below are considered by many health experts to be just that- a safe and effective way of toning your abdomen to achieve the look you want for your midsection.

Abdominal Muscles

Your abdominal muscles not only provide protection for your internal organs, they also provide support for your back. Taking good care of your abdomen muscles can result in a lean and firm midsection or even the "six pack" abdomen look that so many people strive for, Neglecting this muscle group by eating too much and not being active enough can result in a flabby appearance or even a pot belly. Getting your abdominal muscles back to the shape you want them to be in, you need to examine your diet and make the time for consistent exercise to strengthen and tone this area.
If stress levels are high, Abdominal fat will increase

Yoga Asanas for Reducing Abdominal Fat

The most dangerous fat lies around the organs, deep within the belly.
The fat in the abdominal area functions differently than fat elsewhere in the body. It has a greater blood supply as well as more receptors for cortical, a stress hormone. Cortical levels rise and fall throughout the day, but when you're under constant stress, the amount of the hormone you produce remains elevated. With high stress and, consequently, high cortical levels, more fat is deposited in the abdominal area since there are more cortical receptors there

Pashschimotta Asana
Time: 2 minutes
Method: Lie on your back, legs straight, arms overhead, hands together, palms facing up. Sit up, take hands overhead, back straight, then bend forward to hold the big toes, head between arms and touching the knees.

Benefits: Reduces abdominal fat. Removes wind from the intestines and increases appetite.

 

DHANUR ASANA - THE BOW
Time: 1/2 minute
Method: Lie on your stomach. Bend knees, hold the ankles. Pull your hands and push with your legs, knees together, till the trunk forms an arch with only the stomach on the ground. Look up. After releasing the posture lie for a while in Shavasan.

Benefits: Reduces abdominal fat. The compressing of the spinal column, pressing the nerves with the scapulae minimizes blood circulation while in the asana. But when the pose is released a greater supply of blood is endured to those very regions increasing spinal flexibility and definitely raising the vitality.

BHUJANGA ASANA (SNAKE)
Time: 1/2 minutes.
Method: Lie on your stomach, forehead on the ground, hands under shoulders. Raise your upper body by the strength of the back muscles head up. Don't take help of the hands, they may remain on the ground or held on the back over the hips.

Benefits: Helps in keeping the dorsal spine elastic and strong. Back ache due to over strain can be thus relieved. Helps considerably in reducing abdominal fat