Shefali Jariwala's Death: How Aesthetic Shortcuts Can Take A Toll On The Heart
The need for quick transformations has led to an increase in the use of steroids and injectables. However, these often come with side effects.
The untimely passing of actor and fitness icon Shefali Jariwala at 42 has shaken the wellness community. While she appeared active and healthy, her sudden cardiac arrest has raised urgent questions: Could silent heart damage be hiding behind aesthetic goals and 'quick results'?
According to Dr. Mickey Mehta, Global Holistic Health Guru and Spiritual Life Coach, the answer is yes. 'We live in an era of aesthetic obsession," says Dr. Mehta. 'Injectables, neurotoxins, and steroid-based treatments are now freely offered at countless clinics without proper protocols or medical supervision. The quest for quick transformation is costing people their core health."
Steroids: The Silent Saboteurs
Anabolic steroids, synthetic derivatives of testosterone, are often misused to accelerate muscle gain, fat loss or endurance. While they offer immediate visible changes, their long-term effects are insidious.
'Externally, they may sculpt the body, but internally they disrupt hormonal and molecular harmony," warns Dr. Mehta. 'They interfere with the body's natural communication systems, particularly the autonomic nervous system and hormonal balance."
These effects often go unnoticed until it's too late.
Ayurveda's Perspective: A Deeper Disruption
In Ayurveda, the heart (Hridaya) is considered the seat of Ojas – the body's vital energy and immunity. According to Dr. Mehta, 'Steroids are Tikshna (sharp) and Ushna (hot). They aggravate Pitta dosha, impair Agni (digestive fire), and lead to Ama – toxic accumulation that clogs the heart's subtle channels."
Over time, this toxic load not only affects the physical heart but also the energetic and emotional balance, manifesting as anxiety, burnout, aggression or deep fatigue. 'Steroid misuse disrupts the body's bio-clock and depletes Prana Shakti – our life force," Dr. Mehta adds. 'When the body is in constant repair, it forgets how to heal."
The Path Forward: Strength Through Simplicity
True fitness doesn't come from injections or shortcuts. It emerges from inner alignment, what Dr. Mehta calls 'the harmony of mind, body, and soul."
Instead of steroid-fueled extremes, he recommends:
view comments
First Published:
July 19, 2025, 13:04 IST
Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
2 hours ago
- Business Standard
From oily skin to overnight fixes, dermatologist busts 14 skincare myths
In the age of viral beauty trends and influencer-endorsed routines, misinformation about skincare is more widespread than ever. From skipping moisturiser to over-exfoliating, many of us end up following advice that may do more harm than good. In this week's Fact-check Friday, we spoke to Dr Nimesh Mehta, consultant dermatologist at Lilavati Hospital, to debunk 14 of the most common myths that continue to mislead us. Myth 1: Oily skin doesn't need moisturiser Fact: Moisturise even if your skin is oily. It's essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier and preventing irritation and breakouts. 'Oily skin still needs hydration,' said Dr Mehta. Skipping moisturiser can actually cause more oil production as your skin overcompensates. The trick is choosing the right formula—look for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers with ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera. Myth 2: Exfoliating more often gives you clearer skin Fact: Gentle exfoliation = glow. Aggressive scrubbing = damage. Stick to moderation. 'Overdoing it can backfire,' warned Dr Mehta. Over-exfoliation damages the skin barrier and causes redness, irritation, and even breakouts. Instead, opt for chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid or salicylic acid 2–3 times a week. 'Exfoliate 2–3 times weekly to remove dead skin without disrupting your skin's protective barrier. Employ gentle chemical exfoliants such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid instead of rough physical scrubs. Moisturise and apply sunscreen after exfoliating, as your skin becomes more sensitive to UV damage,' said Dr Mehta. Myth 3: Natural or DIY ingredients are always safer and more effective Fact: Natural isn't always better. Science-backed skincare is safer and more reliable. Just because it's 'natural' doesn't mean it's skin-safe. 'Lemon juice, baking soda, and raw products like cinnamon or honey can cause chemical burns or allergies,' said Dr Mehta. Unlike lab-formulated products, homemade remedies aren't pH-balanced or tested for stability. 'Natural products that are not well-preserved can develop bacteria or mould on your face. Scientifically designed for particular skin issues such as acne, pigmentation, and ageing, ingredients are stabilised, tested, and controlled. Products usually go through clinical trials on safety and effectiveness,' explained Dr Mehta. Myth 4: Sunscreen is only needed on sunny days or at the beach Fact: Sunscreen is non-negotiable, think of it as your skin's daily armour. UV rays penetrate clouds, windows, and even office glass. Dr Mehta advised wearing broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, indoors or out. 'Blue light from screens and indoor lights also contributes to skin ageing.' 'Broad-spectrum sunscreen products with SPF 30 or higher and PA+++ protect against UVA and UVB rays. Regular use of sunscreen helps protect against hyperpigmentation, collagen degradation, and skin malignancies,' advised Dr Mehta. Myth 5: Anti-ageing products are only for people over 40 Fact: Prevention is better than correction. Starting early is better. Collagen production slows from your mid-20s, said Dr Mehta. Incorporating antioxidants like vitamin C, retinoids, and peptides in your 20s or 30s helps preserve skin elasticity and prevent fine lines. 'By doing so, you're providing your skin with support and options, and strengthening the skin's barrier and cellular turnover while preserving elasticity, all in line with what dermatology strongly promotes: prevention is better than correction,' he said. Myth 6: Acne is caused by dirty skin or poor hygiene Fact: Be gentle. Cleanse regularly, but don't scrub your skin too much. 'Acne is a complex medical condition, not just about washing your face,' explained Dr Mehta. 'Four primary processes lead to its formation: overproduction of sebum, follicular hyperkeratinisation, hormones (especially androgens), and Cutibacterium acnes, which leads to localised facial inflammation. These processes occur in the pilosebaceous unit and beneath the surface of the skin.' Myth 7: If a skincare product tingles, it means it's working Fact: Skincare shouldn't hurt. If it stings, patch test first, and maybe rethink the product. 'Tingling often means irritation, not effectiveness,' said Dr Mehta. While some actives may mildly sting at first, burning or prolonged discomfort is a red flag. 'Products shouldn't burn or hurt constantly. Try out new products, patch-test for sensitivity before full-face application. Keep an eye on your skin; if tingling is moderate and temporary, it's probably okay. If it's extreme, prolonged, or visible irritations occur, discontinue use and consult a professional.' Myth 8: Wearing makeup regularly causes breakouts Fact: It's not makeup, it's the method. Clean tools, clean removal, and clean ingredients = clear skin. 'Makeup doesn't cause acne by default,' said Dr Mehta, 'but poor removal, dirty brushes, and pore-clogging ingredients can.' Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free, and mineral-based products, and never sleep in your makeup. 'Most makeup products have oils, synthetic fragrances, dyes, and preservatives, which clog pores and lock in sebum, causing a type of acne called acne cosmetica, which is made up of tiny bumps, blackheads, or whiteheads on the cheeks, neck, and upper part of the chest,' he said. Myth 9: Expensive skincare products work better than cheaper ones Fact: Your skin doesn't know the price, it knows performance. Read labels, not logos. 'It's the formula and active ingredients that matter, not the price tag,' Dr Mehta clarified. Drugstore products often contain the same ingredients (like retinol or vitamin C) found in luxury brands. 'One must select products that are aligned with the skin type and make sure to use them regularly,' he said. Myth 10: You'll see visible skincare results overnight Fact: Be patient. Skincare works best with consistency and time. 'While moisturisers and cleansers can instantly hydrate and refresh the skin, active ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs need 4 to 12 weeks of regular use to improve conditions such as acne, pigmentation, and fine lines. This timeline aligns with the skin's typical renewal cycle of 28–40 days, in which dermal remodelling and epidermal turnover occur,' explained Dr Mehta. Quick fixes rarely offer lasting benefits; real change takes time. Myth 11: Drinking more water will automatically improve skin texture and glow Fact: Hydrate inside and out. Combine drinking water with the right products. 'Hydration supports your skin's barrier,' said Dr Mehta, 'but topical care like moisturisers and SPF are just as critical for skin.' Drinking excess water won't replace a solid skincare routine. 'Take into consideration factors like photoprotection (not equal to sunscreen), barrier repair, and antioxidant performance—these are additional considerations for healthy skin,' he said. Myth 12: Pores open and close depending on temperature or steam Fact: You can clean pores, but you can't shrink them like magic. Manage, don't chase myths. 'Warm water or steam can soften sebum or loosen keratinised plugs in follicles and help to clean or extract more effectively. It will temporarily minimise the appearance of enlarged pores, but it does not change the physical size. Cold water and toners can temporarily cause vasoconstriction and tighten the facial skin, but do not actually 'close' pores,' Dr Mehta said. Pore size is mostly genetic. 'Unfortunately, there is no way to permanently change the pore size. Retinoids and niacinamide can help reduce their appearance,' he said. Myth 13: Tanning or sun exposure can help clear up acne Fact: A tan is not a treatment. Please be sure to stick to evidence-based acne solutions. 'Sunlight provides visual improvement in acne due to its drying effect and temporary pigmentation, but it is neither a safe nor effective treatment mode. Sun exposure can worsen acne and lead to scarring,' warned Dr Mehta. It also increases the risk of hyperpigmentation and skin cancer. Myth 14: You need a 10-step skincare routine for healthy, glowing skin Fact: Keep it simple. Consistency beats complexity every time. 'A 10-step skincare routine, while popularised by Korean beauty trends, is not required to achieve good, healthy, and radiant skin. A minimalist routine, which includes cleansing, moisturising, and SPF, is enough for most people. These three steps can eliminate impurities, maintain hydration, and protect against the sun damage that can cause premature ageing and dullness,' said Dr Mehta. Overcomplicating things can overwhelm your skin and can be too much for the skin to handle, particularly if too many ingredients are layered at once. The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all skincare rulebook. But if there's one thing dermatologists agree on, it's this: Less hype, more science. For more health updates, follow #HealthWithBS
News18
13 hours ago
- News18
Ayush ministry reaffirms commitment to promote evidence-based practices
New Delhi, Jul 24 (PTI)The National Expert Committee constituted by the Ayush ministry undertook a rigorous review of scientific, pharmacological and traditional data to refine safety documentation for four selected herbs. This initiative is aligned with the ministry's larger mandate to ensure that Ayush interventions meet global safety and quality standards, thereby enhancing public confidence and international recognition of Indian traditional medicines, the ministry said in a statement. The exercise involved a critical synthesis of Ayurvedic classical references, preclinical data, toxicology findings and available clinical literature, it said in the statement. As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen the scientific evidence base of traditional medicine, the Ayush ministry has made significant progress in the development of safety dossiers for four important Ayush herbs — Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Haridra (Curcuma longa) and Chandrashura (Lepidium sativum). The National Expert Committee meeting was held from July 21 to 22 at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa. The committee, constituted by the Ministry of Ayush, co-chaired by Dr A Raghu, Deputy Director General (Ayush), and Dr J B Gupta, comprises senior experts and scientists from leading institutions including AIIA (Goa and New Delhi), AIIMS New Delhi, CCRAS, DIPSAR, ITRA, IIT Jodhpur, CIMAP and Savitribai Phule Pune University. 'The National Expert Committee undertook a rigorous review of scientific, pharmacological, and traditional data to refine safety documentation for the selected herbs," the statement said. The ministry commended the expert committee and collaborating institutions for their contributions and reaffirms its commitment to promoting evidence-based, safe and effective Ayush practices. PTI PLB KSS KSS (This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed - PTI) view comments First Published: July 24, 2025, 22:30 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
13 hours ago
- News18
How Did Hulk Hogan Pass Away? Decoding The WWE Legend's Cause Of Death
Last Updated: Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, has died at 71. Emergency responders were called to his Clearwater, Florida home for a cardiac emergency. Professional wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71, according to a report from TMZ. Emergency responders were dispatched to Hogan's residence in Clearwater, Florida, early Thursday morning following a call reporting a cardiac emergency. While no official statement has been released by Hogan's family, early indications suggest the cause of death was cardiac arrest. A Storied Wrestling Career Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan began his professional wrestling journey in 1977. He rose to global superstardom after joining the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) in 1983. During his prime, Hogan was one of wrestling's most recognizable faces. He headlined eight of the first nine WrestleMania events and helped bring professional wrestling into mainstream pop culture. After leaving the WWF in 1993, he explored a career in film and television but remained a dominant figure in sports entertainment. Over the course of his storied career, Hogan captured the WWF/WWE Championship six times. His contributions to the industry were honored with two inductions into the WWE Hall of Fame. While Hogan's time in the ring brought fame and fortune, it also came with significant physical consequences. Over the past decade alone, he reportedly underwent 26 surgeries, including ten on his back. The wear and tear stemmed from wrestling during the sport's physically punishing 'golden age" in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Beyond his spine, Hogan had operations on his eyes, stomach, knees, hips, and shoulders. In 2013, he filed a $50 million lawsuit against the Laser Spine Institute, alleging that the facility convinced him to undergo 'unnecessary and ineffective" spinal surgeries. In recent months, rumors about Hogan's declining health had circulated online. However, his representatives consistently pushed back against exaggerated claims. They confirmed that Hogan had undergone spinal fusion and heart procedures, but stressed that none were life-threatening. Despite his medical history, Hogan remained active and resilient. Just last month, he was hospitalized for neck and back issues and underwent a cervical fusion procedure, described by his team as a 'minor" surgery. Following the operation, speculation that he was on his 'deathbed" spread rapidly. These claims were quickly refuted by Hogan's camp, which reassured fans that he was recovering well. But alas, it seems as if the wrestling world has now lost a legend. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
