Latest news with #AlokChopra
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Cardiologist says eating okra helps maintain blood pressure, diabetes; lists 6 benefits of the vegetable
In an Instagram post shared on July 27, Dr Alok Chopra, cardiologist and functional medicine expert, talked about a very simple Indian vegetable found in every household: okra, also known as bhindi or lady finger. He listed the benefits of eating this vegetable, including supporting heart health, and also shared why you should add okra water to your diet. Bhindi or okra is more than just a staple in Indian kitchens — it's a powerhouse of nutrition. Also Read | Cardiologist says 'heart attacks are no longer #1 killer in the US' but this silent trend is claiming more lives Benefits of eating okra Apart from heart health benefits, the cardiologist pointed out that this humble green vegetable could also be your gut's best friend and offer several other benefits. He wrote, 'Bhindi or okra is more than just a staple in Indian kitchens — it's a powerhouse of nutrition. And when soaked overnight, its slimy water turns into a potent remedy. It's affordable, widely available, and found in every Indian household, whether you are in a metro city or a small town.' Listing the benefits of eating okra, Dr Chopra said: It regulates blood sugar It is excellent for type 2 diabetes It supports digestion, hydration, and metabolism It helps in weight loss due to its high fibre content It helps maintain blood pressure while supporting heart health. Lastly, it protects the stomach lining, making it great for healing peptic ulcers. Okra for diabetes management Further elaborating on how okra helps in diabetes management, Dr Chopra said that studies have suggested that consuming up to 1000 mcg of okra every 6 hours for 8 weeks can have a significant impact on HbA1c and sugar reduction. Why should you drink okra water? Apart from having okra as a vegetable dish, another way to include it in your diet is by having okra water. Here's how you make okra water: Take 2-3 fresh okra pods, wash them thoroughly, cut off the ends, and make small slits. Soak them in a glass of water overnight, strain the water, and drink it in the morning on an empty stomach. How does it help? 'The fibre-rich drink slows digestion, prevents sugar spikes, and supports gut health. However, in some cases, excess fibre may cause bloating or mild stomach discomfort, so consult a doctor if you have any concerns, but this is not common. Okra water also enhances metabolism, but metabolism is not just about burning calories; it's about how your body processes energy. Factors like poor diet, stress, and lack of sleep can slow it down, while strength training, protein intake, and hydration can naturally boost it,' the cardiologist explained. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
NDTV
17-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Cardiologist Shares 5 Reasons Why Matcha Is More Than Just A Trendy Beverage; Key Health Benefits Listed
From Japan's traditional tea ceremonies to coffee shops and supermarkets, matcha is now an internet sensation. Videos of matcha latte recipes are going viral on social media. For the unversed, matcha is a type of green tea with a higher concentration of nutrients than regular green tea. It is a finely ground powder made from specially grown green tea leaves. The method of producing matcha is quite distinct. The tea plants are shade-grown for several weeks before harvesting, which boosts their chlorophyll content and enhances the amino acids, particularly L-theanine. Unlike regular green tea, where the leaves are steeped and then discarded, matcha is consumed whole, resulting in a higher concentration of nutrients. Matcha is particularly rich in antioxidants. In an Instagram post, Dr. Alok Chopra, a cardiologist, shared some key benefits of matcha. "Match is not just a vibe, it's science in a cup," he wrote in the post. Lesser-known benefits of drinking matcha 1. Calm focus "L-Theanine fuels alertness without the crash," Dr. Chopra mentioned. L-Theanine is an amino acid found in matcha, which can provide heightened alertness without the jittery crash often associated with caffeine. 2. Fat burn According to the expert, match can help boost metabolism and support better cellular energy. This enhances efficient calorie burning, helping you lose weight more effectively. Some studies suggest that matcha can help increase metabolism and aid in weight management due to its thermogenic properties. 3. Detox support Matcha is rich in chlorophyll, and "chlorophyll helps flush out toxins." Removing toxins from the body promotes overall health and well-being. 4. Lifts mood Dr. Chopra mentioned that the combination of caffeine and L-Theanine boosts energy levels, enhances focus, and reduces stress. As a result, it puts you in a better mood and improves mental clarity. 5. Antioxidant boost Matcha contains "137 times more EGCG than regular green tea," mentioned Dr. Chopra. EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) is a powerful antioxidant that supports cell repair and longevity. These antioxidants also help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alok Chopra (@dralokchopra) Drinking matcha is an easy approach to make your diet nutritionally rich. It can be a great addition to a well-balanced diet for better health. However, like any other food, do not overconsume. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
Hindustan Times
14-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Cardiologist warns 'your blood tests don't tell the full story'; suggests 1 test that catches insulin resistance early
Often, when we have to determine whether we are at risk of diabetes or if our blood sugar levels are normal, doctors suggest that we get a blood sugar test done. But, according to Dr Alok Chopra, MBBS and MD (cardiology), your blood sugar test isn't telling the full story. Your blood sugar might be 'normal' — but is your insulin? It's time to look deeper. (Image by Freepik) Also Read | Cardiologist says strength training is 'an easy shortcut to ageing in reverse': Strong muscles protect heart, brain In an Instagram post shared on July 7, the cardiologist warned that blood sugar levels can stay 'normal' while your insulin is already out of control, and silently cause damage. He wrote, 'Your blood sugar might be 'normal' — but is your insulin? It's time to look deeper. Prevention starts now.' Here's what he suggested one should you do instead: How to know if you have insulin resistance The cardiologist suggested getting a 'comprehensive insulin response test' done, instead of a general blood sugar test. The insulin response test tells you how your body really responds to sugar. 'It detects insulin resistance years before your blood sugar does,' Dr Chopra stressed. What happens when you catch insulin issues early? According to the cardiologist, you can prevent: Brain fog Energy crashes after meals Stubborn belly fat Burnout Type 2 Diabetes PCOS-related symptoms In what situations should you get the insulin response test done? Per the doctor: 'Ask your doctor about an insulin response test if you feel tired after eating, have PCOS, a hormonal imbalance or have diabetes in your family.' How to understand insulin health For understanding your insulin health, Dr Chopra suggested that you need to check these markers: Fasting Insulin: 2-5 µIU/mL Post-meal Insulin (1-2 hrs): < 30 µIU/mL C-Peptide: 0.5-2.0 ng/mL (fasting) 'C-peptide tells us how much insulin your body is producing and whether it's compensating for resistance. Most people never test C-peptide, but it's one of the most accurate ways to understand if your pancreas is overworking to make insulin. When paired with fasting insulin, it paints a clear picture of your metabolic health, long before blood sugar goes up,' the cardiologist explained. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Love ghee? Famous cardiologist calls it 'big daddy of oils'. Here's how it supports weight loss, heart health
Ghee has long been the comfort food for Indians. Whether sprinkled on top of a hot bed of rice or lathered on rotis and parathas, a dollop of ghee, or clarified butter, can make anything, even the most bland food, delicious. Long considered an enemy of fitness enthusiasts, the time has now come for ghee to have its moment under the sun. According to Dr. Alok Chopra, Cardiology, Functional Medicine & Disease Reversal MD, MBBS. Co-founder, Aashlok Hospital. Incorporating ghee into everyday meals can be a healthy choice. He shared his insights in an Instagram post in August 2024, highlighting the multifaceted benefits of this age-old superfood. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Indonesia: New Container Houses (Prices May Surprise You) Container House | Search ads Search Now Undo Dr. Alok Chopra's Stand on Ghee Taking to Instagram, Dr. Chopra shared a post, naming ghee as the 'Big Daddy of Oils,' emphasising that ghee is more than just a cooking medium—it is deeply intertwined with Indian heritage and nutrition. He described ghee as a powerhouse that aids digestion, strengthens immunity, and offers a generous supply of vital fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K. One of the key attributes he pointed out is its high smoke point, which makes it a safe choice for high-temperature cooking without the risk of forming toxic substances. He also urged people to opt for A2 ghee made from organic A2 cow milk. In his post, he stressed the importance of ethical sourcing, warning that dairy obtained from cows subjected to cruel conditions or unnatural hormonal treatments can compromise the purity and effectiveness of the ghee. According to Dr. Chopra, being mindful about where your ghee comes from is just as crucial as including it in your diet. Ghee: A Nutritional Treasure Trove Scientific platforms like Healthline and WebMD have documented a wide range of potential health benefits linked to ghee, also known as clarified butter. Here's a breakdown of the findings: A Natural Source of Vitamin A Ghee helps improve vitamin A levels in the body. This essential nutrient plays a crucial role in preserving vision, supporting the immune system, and promoting skin health. Its fat-soluble nature makes ghee an ideal carrier for efficient absorption. Promotes Cardiovascular Well-being Ghee contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are associated with lowering inflammation and potentially decreasing the risk of heart disease. Despite its high fat content, ghee delivers heart-friendly monounsaturated fats that support vascular health when consumed in moderation. Anti-Inflammatory Properties In Ayurvedic healing practices, ghee has long been used to treat skin burns and swelling. While clinical evidence is still emerging, one key component—butyrate, a type of fatty acid—has been shown in studies to reduce inflammation. This compound contributes to ghee's calming effect on bodily inflammation, especially in the digestive tract. Aiding Weight Management Another significant component in ghee is conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid linked to fat loss. Research has demonstrated that CLA may assist in reducing overall body fat and supporting weight management efforts. Supports Skin Repair and Regeneration Scientific observations indicate that ghee can help promote skin healing, reinforce the skin barrier, and stimulate collagen production. These functions make it a valuable addition for those aiming to maintain youthful and resilient skin. Enhances Digestive Function Ghee also offers benefits for gut health. The presence of butyrate in ghee—though in small amounts—can support colon cell health. But to increase butyrate in the body more effectively, a fiber-rich diet is recommended, since the gut naturally produces more short-chain fatty acids from fiber than from ghee alone. Reduces Risk from Toxic Compounds One surprising advantage of cooking with ghee is that it may lower the formation of acrylamide, a toxic substance found in some cooking methods. Research indicates that animal fats like ghee yield less acrylamide than plant oils during high-heat cooking. Since acrylamide exposure in animals has been linked to cancer at high doses, choosing ghee might be a safer option for those concerned with food safety. In conclusion, with expert backing from professionals like Dr. Chopra and growing evidence from scientific platforms, ghee is emerging not only as a culinary delight but as a potent health enhancer. When sourced ethically and consumed wisely, this golden fat may indeed be a gift from our ancestors worth rediscovering.
Hindustan Times
10-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Cardiologist calls ghee 'gift of our ancestors to the world', shares health benefits
Ghee has been used for centuries in Indian cooking, and has even caught attention in the health and wellness space. But what is so special about ghee, and what are the benefits? According to cardiologist Dr Alok Chopra, incorporating ghee into your diet can be beneficial, especially when used in traditional cooking methods. Also read | Shalini Passi has ghee shot first thing in the morning, reveals her diet secrets Ghee holds significant cultural and culinary importance in Indian tradition, and its benefits align well with Indian cuisine and dietary habits, as per a doctor. (Pexels) 'It's time we embrace this golden elixir' In an August 2024 Instagram post, he explained why ghee is 'the big daddy of oils'. Dr Chopra said, 'Ghee is deeply embedded in our DNA. It enhances digestion, boosts immunity and provides essential fatty acids and vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Ghee also has a high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking at high temperatures without breaking down into harmful compounds.' He added, 'Ghee, is truly the gift of our ancestors to the world. Rich in nutrients and packed with benefits, it's time we embrace this golden elixir in our kitchens and lives. Make sure (you use) A2 ghee which is derived from organic A2 cow milk. And definitely make doubly sure to do your research to ensure that the cows are treated ethically. Cows raised via unethical practices such as animal mistreatment or hormonal injections to over produce will create products of the same kind. Be nice.' More information on ghee's benefits 'Desi ghee is considered as one of the best immunity boosters in Indian society. It is beneficial for our eyesight, digestive system and even strengthens bones. Desi ghee also promotes healthy skin and hair. It is a great antibiotic and helps during cold and cough. It is also used on wounds to speed up healing. During pregnancy, desi ghee provides nourishment to both the mother and the child as they need more nutrients,' Priyanka Rohtagi, chief clinical nutritionist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said in an 2019 interview. 'Ghee primarily contains saturated fatty acids and is rich in vitamins A, E and K2. It is also rich in Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) and Butyrate, both of which have powerful health benefits. A normal adult can consume 1-2 table spoons of ghee per day. Apart from that, this quantity can be slightly changed depending upon the quantity of work out one is doing,' Dr BL Agarwal, associate director, cardiology at Jaypee Hospital in Noida had added. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
