Latest news with #Kapiva
Hindustan Times
14-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Building biceps but burning out? Ayurveda tips for men to heal your gut-gym disconnect first
Modern fitness routines measure everything: sets, macros, sleep cycles — even hydration timing but one critical system is often ignored: the to experts, Ayurveda never made that mistake as for thousands of years, it has placed digestion at the core of strength and vitality because no matter how clean your diet or how intense your training, none of it matters if your body can't properly digest and absorb. From bloating to bench press: Here's how Ayurveda fixes the gut-gym disconnect in men.(Image by Pexels) Agni: The digestive fire behind every rep In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Govindarajan, Chief Innovation Officer at Kapiva, shared, 'In Ayurveda, Agni, your digestive fire, is more than metaphor. It's the engine that transforms food into usable energy, muscle tissue and mental clarity. Strong Agni means efficient nutrient absorption, smooth recovery, and sustained performance.' Ayurveda recommends eating light at night considering our digestive fire or agni is the lowest. Undigested food can lead to accumulation of toxins and cause health issues.(Image by Pixabay) Weak Agni? Dr Govindarajan revealed, 'That means bloating, fatigue and stalled progress—even on a 'perfect' diet. Herbs like cumin, ginger, and fennel aren't just flavor—each supports digestion at a cellular level. Triphala aids detox and nutrient uptake. A cleaner gut means faster recovery and a body that doesn't waste energy on damage control.' Herbs that work while you train, sleep and recover Dr Govindarajan said, 'Ayurveda doesn't use herbs to mask fatigue; it uses them to rebuild systems.' He highlighted four time-tested herbs that are showing up in new research and gym bags for good reason: Shilajit helps support healthy testosterone levels, boosting stamina and enhancing muscle strength. It improves overall gym performance by aiding energy production and reducing fatigue. Additionally, it supports immunity and speeds up recovery. helps support healthy testosterone levels, boosting stamina and enhancing muscle strength. It improves overall gym performance by aiding energy production and reducing fatigue. Additionally, it supports immunity and speeds up recovery. Black Musli supports faster muscle recovery by reducing inflammation and enhancing post-workout repair. supports faster muscle recovery by reducing inflammation and enhancing post-workout repair. Gokshura supports healthy metabolism and boosts energy by enhancing the body's natural ability to process and utilise nutrients efficiently. Gokshura: Gokshura helps strengthen bones and promote musculoskeletal health. It supports calcium absorption and improves bone density.(Pinterest) Ashwagandha helps reduce stress and promotes better sleep by calming the nervous system and balancing cortisol levels. helps reduce stress and promotes better sleep by calming the nervous system and balancing cortisol levels. Swarna Bhasma helps improve stamina by boosting cellular energy, enhancing physical endurance, and supporting overall vitality. Dr Govindarajan said, 'These aren't quick fixes. They work gradually, building the kind of baseline health that survives high-intensity weeks, plateaus and life's curveballs.' Train hard, recover smarter Ayurveda doesn't shy away from intensity but it calls out chaos. Dr Govindarajan gushed, 'It promotes training in alignment with the body's natural rhythms. Mornings, when Kapha energy is dominant, are best for strength training — grounded, stable and strong. Late-night workouts, on the other hand, disrupt circadian cycles and spike cortisol when your body should be recovering.' Poor gut health is not just about discomfort and digestive issues like bloating, acidity, and constipation, it also affects your entire wellbeing.(Shutterstock) He added, 'The Ayurvedic system of Dinacharya or daily routine isn't just tradition. It's performance science. Wake before sunrise. Hydrate with warm water. Eat meals at consistent times. Wind down without screens. These habits sharpen recovery, deepen sleep and stabilise mood. It's not boring, it's where discipline meets results.' Redefining strength, especially in men's health month Dr Govindarajan opined, 'Real strength isn't just about size or stats. It's about digestion that works invisibly, energy that doesn't crash, and a nervous system that stays resilient under pressure. Ayurveda isn't here to replace weights — it's what helps the work land. It restores what hustle culture erodes: gut health, recovery rhythm and hormone balance.' So if you are already training, already tracking your macros but still feeling depleted — the answer may not be more output. It may be a smarter input and that starts from the inside. 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
11-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Is work stress making men weak? These Ayurveda tips can help beat burnout, restore energy and focus
Notifications never sleep and neither do you so, for most men today, the workday does not end; it spills over. The grind shows up in places no one talks about: persistent fatigue, mental fog and dipping energy. Men, check out these Ayurvedic solutions to beat stress, burnout and low energy.(Image by Pixabay) Underneath the hustle is a hormonal imbalance quietly building. Stress floods the system while vital hormones responsible for recovery and focus begin to taper. The result? Burnout becomes the new baseline and most men do not realise it until their body forces a shutdown. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Govind, Chief Innovation Officer at Kapiva, shared, 'What looks like fatigue on the surface is often a deeper hormonal shift triggered by sustained stress. A growing body of research confirms that prolonged stress directly impacts testosterone levels, immunity, sleep quality and even cardiovascular health.' From strength to wellness: Optimising testosterone for holistic muscle growth in men.(Image by Pexels) Studies suggest that high-stress jobs can suppress testosterone and elevate cortisol, the very hormone responsible for our fight-or-flight response. Dr Govind revealed, 'Over time, this hormonal imbalance doesn't just affect mood or mental health; it chips away at physical vitality, muscle mass, stamina and this is where Ayurveda offers timely wisdom and Shilajit, in particular, has emerged as a promising adaptogen for modern male health.' The stress-testosterone connection One of the most cited studies published in Andrologia (2016)showed that men aged 45–55 who took 250 mg of purified Shilajit twice daily for 90 days experienced a significant increase in both total testosterone (the overall amount in the bloodstream) and free testosterone (the active form that directly influences energy, mood and physical performance). This wasn't a folk remedy. It was a controlled, peer-reviewed clinical trial. What exactly is Shilajit and why the hype? Dr Govind answered, 'Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin that seeps from high-altitude Himalayan rocks during warmer months. It's been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine as a rejuvenator or 'rasayana', a class of herbs and compounds known to enhance strength, longevity and cellular function.' Shilajit for fitness: Boosting testosterone to collagen, Ayurveda expert reveals health benefits of taking the Himalayan herb (Photo by Twitter/Helios_Movement) He added, 'Modern science now backs many of these claims. Shilajit is rich in fulvic acid and trace minerals that support mitochondrial energy production, the very process that fuels every cell in the body. Research has shown that it helps reduce fatigue, increase energy levels, stamina and metabolism, improve recovery after exertion, and even enhance physical endurance.' Adaptogen for the age of anxiety Dr Govind gushed, 'More than just a physical tonic, Shilajit is considered an adaptogen, an agent that helps the body adapt to stress. Early research indicates that Shilajit may help support the body's stress-regulation system, potentially improving both energy and mental clarity over time. This is particularly relevant for men navigating high-pressure careers, poor sleep, hygiene and inconsistent nutrition, factors that collectively wear down hormonal balance.' An Ayurvedic approach to male burnout According to Dr Govind, Ayurveda doesn't stop at treating symptoms — it focuses on restoring long-term balance. Shilajit is often paired with other adaptogenic herbs: Ashwagandha, known for improving stress response and strength Safed Musli, which aids recovery and natural energy levels Gokshura, traditionally used to support stamina and physical performance Dr Govind pointed out, 'These combinations aim to support men's overall vitality and resilience without resorting to stimulants or synthetic quick fixes. Ayurveda recommends small, sustainable habits that compound over time: a few minutes of mindful movement in the morning, warm and balanced meals on schedule, regular exposure to sunlight, and switching off screens an hour before bed. These seemingly minor shifts help recalibrate the nervous system and give adaptogens like Shilajit the environment to work better.' Shrub-like ashwagandha can cope with everything from cancer to hair loss(Shutterstock) Men in their 30s and 40s often dismiss early warning signs, low energy and poor sleep as just 'part of adulting' but these are often the body's way of signalling deeper imbalances. Dr Govind cautioned, 'If left unaddressed, they can spiral into more serious issues, from metabolic disorders to mood disturbances.' He suggested, 'Shilajit, when taken consistently and as part of a balanced routine, may be a valuable tool in managing modern male stress. It's not a silver bullet — but it is a clinically studied, natural ally that helps the body repair, restore, and sustain energy under pressure. Skip the burnout bravado and start building real resilience from the inside out.' 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
10-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Top Ayurvedic herbs for men: Boost strength, stamina, mental wellness naturally
Between deadlines and dumbbells, family roles and fitness goals, Indian men today face an invisible tug-of-war: perform relentlessly but never pause. While the wellness conversation grows louder, much of it still overlooks what men are quietly struggling with be it chronic stress, low stamina, fatigue and dropping testosterone levels. Best Ayurvedic solutions for men's health: Natural remedies for energy, focus and hormonal balance.(Image by HowStuffWorks) In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Govindarajan, Chief Innovation Officer at Kapiva, shared, 'In a time defined by fast food, faster timelines, and digital overload, we need more than protein shakes and energy shots. We need systems that sustain. Ayurveda, India's 5,000-year-old science of life, offers exactly that—a holistic, preventive approach to the evolving challenges of modern masculinity.' According to a 2021 survey, 46% of Indian men are classified as unhealthy, battling issues like heart disease, diabetes, and lifestyle-related disorders and this isn't just about ageing — male fertility is also taking a hit. Over the past four decades, global sperm counts have dropped by more than 50% and quality has declined too. Dr Govindarajan revealed, 'Stress, poor nutrition, environmental toxins, and lack of restorative sleep are driving the decline. The impact is bigger than poor productivity—it's weakening long-term vitality.' Enter the Ayurvedic approach: Restore, don't just react Dr Govindarajan said, 'Ayurveda doesn't chase symptoms. It balances the entire system, the body, mind, and energy. And for men, this means building the foundations of resilience, strength, and stress recovery. Unlike synthetic stimulants, Ayurvedic herbs work with the body, not against it.' He highlighted two powerhouses leading that change - 1. Shilajit: The Ancient Power Source for Modern Energy Want to boost your immunity, strength and stamina? Try Shilajit, Ayurvedic elixir and ancient Himalayan treasure (Photo by Revered as a 'destroyer of weakness' in Ayurvedic texts, Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin that oozes from Himalayan rocks. Backed by scientific research, it is known to support testosterone production, enhance energy, stamina, metabolism, and improve muscle strength. A study published in Andrologia found that men who consumed purified Shilajit over 90 days showed a 23.5 per cent increase in testosterone levels. In today's sedentary, stress-loaded routines, Shilajit acts as a potent adaptogen, improving stamina and reducing fatigue without overstimulating the body. 2. Ashwagandha: Ayurveda's leading adaptogen Ashwagandha is a powerful Ayurvedic herb that offers numerous benefits for overall health and wellness. (Freepik) Modern stress isn't just emotional—it's hormonal. Ashwagandha, Ayurveda's leading adaptogen, helps reduce cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone. A 2021 clinical study published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Ashwagandha significantly reduced stress and improved sleep quality within eight weeks of daily use. More energy. Less anxiety. Deeper sleep. No crash. You can add ashwagandha powder to hot milk, tea or smoothies, or take capsules. (Freepik) A new model of strength: Built for the long game Dr Govindarajan said, 'Ayurveda teaches that true health is cultivated—not crisis-managed. With rising rates of early burnout, fatigue and hormonal imbalance in men, it's time to move from reaction to prevention.' He concluded, 'Today's man lives between ambition and anxiety but strength doesn't have to cost balance. With herbs like Shilajit and Ashwagandha, men can build clean, consistent energy—naturally. So the question isn't whether Ayurveda fits into your life. It is: Can you afford to ignore it any longer?' 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.
Mint
09-07-2025
- Business
- Mint
360 ONE eyes bets on Walko, Kapiva in $30-40 million funding talks
Mumbai: 360 ONE Asset is evaluating investments in several consumer-facing startups, including NIC Ice Creams maker Walko Foods and ayurvedic wellness brand Kapiva, multiple people familiar with the matter told Mint. The funding rounds being discussed range between $25 million and $40 million and could also involve participation from existing investors, the people said. Kapiva is in talks to raise $40-50 million in a fresh funding round that may include a secondary component, allowing early investors to exit. The company has attracted interest from multiple investors, including 360 ONE. Walko, meanwhile, is negotiating a $30-35 million round with 360 ONE and other investors to support its expansion plans. Last month, the company acquired Mumbai-based artisanal dessert brand Meemee's for an undisclosed sum, marking its entry into the premium dessert segment. To be sure, negotiations with both companies are still ongoing, and the final deal structure could change. However, 360 ONE is expected to be the new incoming investor in these rounds if they materialize. 'Fundraising is aligned with our long-term growth strategy and ongoing pursuit of business growth. As these progress, we'll be better placed to share future plans. Walko's strong 45–50% YoY growth is strengthened further after acquiring MeeMee's. The next strategic step is to scale this brand nationally," a spokesperson for Walko said. 360 ONE declined to comment, while Kapiva did not respond to Mint's queries. Both Kapiva and Walko raised capital in the past year. Kapiva secured about $10 million from existing investors in September, while Walko raised $20 million from Jungle Ventures in February 2024. 360 ONE Asset, which manages over $3 billion across its venture capital and private equity platform, has stepped up its dealmaking activity in recent months. The firm has launched several sector-focused funds, including a ₹500 crore early-stage fund, a ₹5,000 crore secondaries fund, a pre-IPO fund, a healthcare-focused private equity fund, and others targeting financial services and technology. It also plans to roll out a consumer-focused fund soon. 'We have launched these funds as we believe there is a lot of depth in the kind of opportunities we are seeing today. There is immense scope for good returns as exit strategies evolve for new-age companies. We also have the ability to offer expertise, and another way to think about the depth in the market is to have the right size of funds chasing those companies," Abhishek Nag, strategy head of early-stage VC at 360 ONE Asset, told Mint in May. He added that the firm is positioned to support companies from the idea stage all the way to IPO.
Hindustan Times
08-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Aloe vera gel: Your green secret to glowing skin and shiny hair; Our top 8 picks for you
If there is one naturally skin calming ingredient that has been missing from your skincare kit, it is aloe vera gel, the cool, calming hug your skin has been waiting for. Straight from the lush green leaves of the miraculous aloe plant, this gel-like wonder is packed with hydration, vitamins, and a touch of nature's magic. Be it's soothing sun-kissed skin, taming frizz, or giving your face that healthy, dewy glow, aloe vera gel is your all-in-one, anytime beauty and care companion. Best aloe vera gel for glowing skin and shiny hair(AI Generated) So, while this skin and haircare ingredient can do tons of wonder, choosing the right one from the plethora of them available in the market is not that easier option. So, we thought of doing that work for you. We have created this rundown of our top 8 picks of aloe vera gels for you to get glowing skin and healthier, shinier hair. Loading Suggestions... Kapiva Pure Aloe Vera Skin Gel hydrates, soothes, and nourishes your skin naturally. Extracted from fresh aloe vera leaves, this gel locks in moisture, reduces dryness, and calms irritation. Its lightweight and non-sticky formula refreshes your skin instantly, making it perfect for daily use. You can also apply it to minor cuts, sunburns, and dry patches for quick relief. Free from harmful chemicals, Kapiva's gel helps your skin feel soft, healthy, and rejuvenated with the goodness of pure aloe. Loading Suggestions... Mamaearth Aloe Vera Gel delivers intense hydration and repairs damaged skin effectively. Enriched with aloe vera and vitamin E, it soothes sunburn, reduces irritation, and improves skin elasticity. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly without clogging pores. Use it as a moisturiser, a soothing after-sun gel, or even on your hair to tame frizz and dryness. Free from parabens, sulphates, and artificial colours, this multipurpose gel keeps your skin and hair healthy, soft, and nourished naturally. Loading Suggestions... Nat Habit Pure Aloe Vera offers fresh, hand-churned aloe vera for skin and hair care. It hydrates dry skin, reduces acne, and soothes redness with its cooling effect. This gel is made from real aloe vera pulp without synthetic colours, fragrance, or preservatives, keeping it close to nature. Its gentle formula is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Use it daily as a moisturizer, a cooling mask, or for minor cuts and burns to restore skin health. Loading Suggestions... UrbanBotanics® Pure Aloe Vera Gel nourishes, cools, and repairs skin and hair naturally. Made from organic aloe vera, it moisturizes dry skin, calms irritation, and lightens blemishes. Its quick-absorbing, lightweight texture leaves no sticky residue, making it ideal for everyday use. Apply it on your face, body, or hair to combat dryness, frizz, and sun damage effectively. Free of harsh chemicals, parabens, and alcohol, this multipurpose gel gives you healthy, smooth, and refreshed skin and hair. Loading Suggestions... Himalaya Moisturising Aloe Vera Face Gel keeps your skin soft, hydrated, and fresh all day. Infused with pure aloe vera, it replenishes moisture, soothes irritation, and helps heal sunburns. Its non-sticky and lightweight formula glides on easily and absorbs quickly into the skin. Gentle enough for daily use, it suits all skin types and helps maintain the skin's natural balance. Use it as a moisturizer or soothing gel to achieve healthy, glowing skin free from dryness. Loading Suggestions... The Face Shop Non-Sticky Transparent 3 in 1 Aloe Fresh Soothing Gel offers hydration, soothing, and refreshing benefits in one product. Packed with pure aloe vera extract, it cools irritated skin, reduces redness, and restores moisture. Its light, fast-absorbing gel formula leaves no greasy feeling, making it perfect for hot weather. Ideal for face, body, and even hair care, this versatile gel keeps you feeling cool, calm, and moisturized all day long without stickiness. Loading Suggestions... Jovees Herbal 100% Pure Aloe Vera Gel naturally hydrates, soothes, and protects your skin. Made with pure aloe vera extract, it heals dry, irritated, or sun-damaged skin effectively. Its light texture absorbs quickly and doesn't leave any oily residue, making it great for daily use. You can apply it on your face, body, or hair to keep them nourished and fresh. Free from harmful chemicals, this gel helps you maintain soft, healthy, and radiant skin effortlessly. Loading Suggestions... WOW Skin Science Aloe Vera Multipurpose Beauty Gel revitalizes your skin and hair with pure, natural aloe vera extract. It deeply moisturizes, soothes inflammation, and repairs minor skin damage. Lightweight and quick-absorbing, it leaves no stickiness behind, making it perfect for daily use. Use it as a face moisturizer, hair conditioner, or after-sun treatment to rejuvenate and protect. Free from parabens, silicones, and artificial colour, this gel brings you closer to healthy, glowing skin and hair naturally. Similar articles for you: Acne prone skin? Dr Blossom Kochhar recommends staying away from creamy products 8 best toners to get rid of impurities; Our picks for a supple, soft, and glowing skin Top 8 Salicylic acid face serums to get rid of acne, blackheads, and improve skin's texture Nighttime skincare routine that is a must: Goodbye tired, dull skin, wake up to healthier, glowing skin FAQ for aloe vera gel What are the benefits of using aloe vera gel? Moisturizes dry skin without making it greasy Soothes sunburn, irritation, and minor burns Helps calm acne and reduce redness Promotes wound healing Conditions and nourishes hair and scalp Can aloe vera gel be used on all skin types? Yes, aloe vera gel is generally suitable for all skin types — oily, dry, sensitive, and combination. Always do a patch test first to rule out any allergic reaction. Is aloe vera gel good for acne? Yes. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help reduce pimples, calm redness, and speed up healing. How can I use aloe vera gel on my face? You can use it: As a daily moisturizer As a soothing mask by applying a thick layer and rinsing off after 20 minutes As a spot treatment on acne or irritated areas As a cooling after-sun gel Can I leave aloe vera gel overnight? Yes, you can apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to your face and leave it overnight as a sleeping mask. It helps hydrate and repair the skin while you sleep. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
