Latest news with #IndraprasthaApolloHospitals
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- 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.
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Orthopedic surgeon reveals 3 things he would never do to prevent injuries: 'Don't wear the wrong shoes for your sport'
US-based orthopedic surgeon, Dr Jonathan Glashow, has recommended avoiding certain habits to prevent injuries and maintain overall health. He took to Instagram on July 1 to share a post titled, '3 things I would never do as an orthopedic surgeon'. Wearing incorrect shoes can lead to major injuries, and Dr Glashow has shared that he would avoid doing so. Also read | 8 daily habits to stay active and avoid harmful effects of sedentary lifestyle Wearing the wrong shoes for your sport can lead to various preventable injuries. (Freepik) Dr Glashow also added that varying your cardio routine can help prevent overuse injuries, hence, mix up your workouts by trying different activities is a good idea. He said, 'As a sports medicine specialist, I see preventable injuries every day. Here are my non-negotiables for staying injury-free.' Here are three things Dr Glashow suggested never doing: 1. Never skip strength training Dr Glashow said, 'Strong muscles = protected joints. Focus on shoulder stabilisers to prevent shoulder injuries, quad/glute strength for knee protection and calf strength to reduce Achilles tendon ruptures.' 2. Never wear the wrong shoes for your sport 'Spiked cleats on artificial turf? That's asking for an ACL tear (especially for female athletes). Match your footwear to your playing surface, it matters more than you think,' he added. 3. Never do the same cardio every day Dr Glashow also wrote, 'Treadmill only → shin splints and stress fractures bike only → nerve compression and tendinopathies elliptical only → hip problems. Mix all three. Your body won't adapt to repetitive stress, and you'll actually get better results. Bottom line: Strength train consistently, wear appropriate shoes, and vary your cardio.' Want to know how you can enjoy weekend sports while keeping your joints safe and healthy? In an April 2025 interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rajesh Malhotra, senior consultant, orthopaedic surgeon at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, shared valuable tips to keep yourself safe. Click here to know what he said. 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.
The Hindu
3 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Apollo Hospitals launches nutrition guide to promote preventive health
Apollo Hospitals has released 'My Food My Health', a comprehensive guide on Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT), curated to support preventive healthcare through evidence-based nutrition. The book has been authored by a team of senior dietitians and curated by Anita Jatana, consultant dietetics, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals. Designed in a reader-friendly format, the book offers dietary strategies alongside simplified meal plans, myth-busting facts, immunity-boosting tips and recovery diets. According to the experts, at the book release event, the guide blends clinical insights with practical advice, making it a resource for patients, caregivers and healthcare providers alike. Each section is supported by vibrant visuals, nutritional breakdowns and easy-to-follow recipes that aim to bring nutrition closer to the everyday lives of readers. The first copy of the book was presented to Prathap C. Reddy, founder and chairman, Apollo Hospitals, by the chief guest, Sucharitha Reddy. Speaking at the event, Dr. Reddy said, 'With lifestyle diseases becoming increasingly common, there is a pressing need to empower people with credible health information. 'My Food My Health' is our step forward in nurturing a health-aware nation.' Ms. Jatana added, 'In an era saturated with misinformation about food, this book offers clarity rooted in clinical practice. It is a culmination of collaborative expertise across Apollo's network.' Contributors to the book include dieticians and nutritionists across Apollo Group.
Indian Express
6 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Kerala alert after Nipah virus cases: Here's why it happens every monsoon, know about signs and symptoms
The Kerala Health Department has stepped up vigil against the Nipah virus after two positive cases of the deadly zoonotic disease were detected in two districts. One of the affected is undergoing treatment while another has died. State Health Minister Veena George has said the alert has been sounded in Kozhikode, Malappuram and Palakkad, where 345 people are in the contact list of the two cases, which were confirmed after samples tested in NIV-Pune. Why does Nipah spiral every year? According to Dr Rakesh Gupta, senior consultant, internal medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, 'With global warming, changes in wildlife behaviour and human lifestyle factors, such viruses may continue to pose a risk, making constant monitoring essential.' With Nipah cases resurfacing in Kerala, it is important to stay vigilant. Avoid eating fruits that look partially eaten or pecked by birds and bats, as the virus is often linked to contamination from fruit bats. Wash fruits thoroughly before eating. Maintain good hand hygiene and avoid visiting hospitals unless absolutely necessary, especially in areas with reported cases. Stay alert for symptoms like fever, headache, drowsiness, confusion or respiratory issues — and seek immediate medical care if these occur. Also, limit contact with patients' bodily fluids. Follow government advisories and avoid spreading rumours, which can cause panic. Health workers and caregivers should use protective gear. If there are deaths in the family or neighbourhood from unknown fever, inform health authorities for proper containment. Vigilance and early detection play a huge role in preventing the spread of Nipah. Nipah virus outbreaks have recurred in Kerala primarily because of the ecology of the region. Its climate and landscape support dense fruit tree cover and a large population of fruit bats (the natural hosts of the virus). Changing patterns in land use, human encroachment into bat habitats, and the habit of consuming fresh fruits or toddy can increase the chance of bat-human contact. With the monsoon, there is more fruiting, attracting bats closer to human dwellings. Increased moisture can also spoil fruits faster, making them more attractive to bats. Additionally, water-logging and changes in local ecology during the monsoon might bring humans, bats and domestic animals into closer contact, raising the chance of spillover. Additionally, Kerala's strong disease surveillance system helps identify cases quickly, which is why outbreaks are promptly reported. Nipah virus primarily spreads from animals (especially fruit bats) to humans through contaminated food, such as fruits or raw date palm sap tainted with bat saliva or urine. It can also spread through direct contact with infected animals like pigs, though this is less common in India. Once in humans, the virus can spread from person to person via close contact, especially through bodily fluids, saliva, urine, or respiratory droplets. Caregivers and health workers are at higher risk if proper precautions aren't taken. Hospital-acquired infections have been documented in previous Kerala outbreaks. Unlike COVID-19, Nipah does not spread through casual airborne transmission over long distances; it requires close or direct contact. Hence, avoiding exposure to possibly contaminated food, maintaining personal hygiene, wearing masks around patients, and isolating suspected cases are key measures to stop its spread.
Time of India
29-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Cataract remains a leading cause of preventable blindness due to delayed treatment and misconceptions
New Delhi: Cataract remains a significant source of preventable blindness, especially for elderly individuals. Unfortunately, many Indians postpone treatment because of widespread misconceptions and insufficient knowledge. In light of June being Cataract Awareness Month, health experts said detecting cataracts early could prevent unnecessary vision loss. Worldwide statistics indicate that cataract is responsible for 33% of blindness cases. In India, cataract accounts for more than 66% of cases of blindness. Dispelling common myths about cataracts, Dr Mahipal Singh Sachdev, chairman & medical director, Centre for Sight Group of Eye Hospitals, explained, "Many people delay surgery due to myths and fears. A common myth is that cataracts only affect the elderly. While ageing is a major factor, cataracts can also be caused by diabetes, steroid use, UV exposure, trauma, and even affect children. Another myth is that eyedrops, diet or exercises can cure cataracts, but scientific evidence supports surgery as the only effective treatment. " You Can Also Check: Delhi AQI | Weather in Delhi | Bank Holidays in Delhi | Public Holidays in Delhi Explaining what causes the eye lens to cloud, Dr Rinky Anand Gupta, associate director, ophthalmology (cataract & refractive surgery), Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, said that cataract was the result mainly of ageing, with protein breakdown in the lens occurring over time. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like CUPRA Terramar Impulse e-HYBRID CUPRA Configura Auto Undo Additional risk factors include diabetes, UV light exposure, smoking, eye injuries, steroid usage, and genetic predisposition. Some infants may develop congenital cataracts. Talking about the age group mainly affected, Dr Ashu Agarwal, senior ophthalmology consultant, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said that while cataracts predominantly affected those over 60 years, lens clouding can develop earlier in individuals with specific risk factors like diabetes, trauma or family history. Congenital cataracts occur rarely in newborns. Due to increasing lifestyle-related risks, early-onset cataracts are now seen in adults as young as 40. "The decision to undergo cataract surgery should be based on how the condition affects one's daily activities," said Agarwal. "When tasks like reading, operating a vehicle or identifying people become challenging and impact lifestyle negatively, surgical intervention should be considered. Contemporary surgical techniques have advanced significantly, enabling successful treatment in early stages without waiting for complete cataract maturation. " Dr Anil Solanki, associate consultant, ophthalmology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, indicated that mature cataract caused blindness and potentially angle closure glaucoma, leading to permanent vision loss, with surgery was the only viable treatment. Dr Sachdev assured that cataract surgery was among the safest medical procedures, performed under local anaesthesia with minimal discomfort and swift healing. Modern surgery doesn't necessarily require permanent spectacle use. Healthcare professionals said that advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs), including extended-depth-of-focus (EDOF) lenses, provided excellent vision at various distances while reducing spectacle dependency. Addressing the outdated beliefs is essential for encouraging timely treatment, they said. Contemporary cataract surgery offers a secure, efficient solution for vision restoration and professional consultation should be sought when initial symptoms show up.
