Latest news with #Kovil
Indian Express
12 hours ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Is maltodextrin more harmful than sugar? Let's find out
Did you know there is something much more harmful than sugar? Dietitian Lavleen Kaur discussed this in her latest Instagram post wherein she mentioned maltodextrin, a sweetener found in most processed foods. 'Discover the hidden danger in your diet: Maltodextrin! This silent culprit, often found in processed foods, can spike your blood sugar levels even higher than table sugar. Prioritise your health by cutting down on ultra-processed foods and make informed choices,' said Kaur. Maltodextrin is a type of carbohydrate and a sweetener with low nutritional values that can easily spike sugar levels and create havoc on your health. 'Maltodextrin is a white powder made with corn, potato starch, rice, or wheat. It is a highly refined powder, generally used as a thickener to increase the volume of processed food,' said Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology, Zandra Healthcare and co-founder, Rang De Neela initiative. It is generally found in chips, popcorn, milk-based drink powder, bakery items, frozen foods, soups, and salad dressing, said dietitian Simran Bhui. 'It is made using the process of malting, which involves germinating cereals, drying, roasting, and powdering them to produce sugar,' explained Bhui. Sugar is a common disaccharide used to sweeten baked goods, beverages, and various processed meals. It is made up of glucose and fructose. 'A polysaccharide called maltodextrin is sourced from starches such as corn, rice, potatoes, or wheat and is used in many processed foods and sports supplements as a thickening, filler, and source of carbohydrates,' mentioned Dr Harsh Kapoor – chairman (Pan Metro) – institute of gastroenterology, hepatology, GI surgery and liver transplant, Metro Hospital Noida. These two substances' glycemic index (GI) and how they affect blood sugar levels is what differentiates them. 'Sugar causes a mild spike in blood glucose due to its moderate GI of approximately 65. Maltodextrin, on the other hand, has a very high GI, ranging from 85 to 105, which can result in a sharp and sudden rise in blood sugar. Maltodextrin is, therefore, especially dangerous for those who have diabetes or insulin resistance,' explained Dr Kapoor. It claims to be sugar-free but in reality, its glycemic index is more than table sugar, stressed Bhui, adding: 'This means it can spike sugar levels faster after consumption.' A high glycemic index brings several dangerous effects on the body and is not advisable for not just diabetics but pregnant and lactating women and children too. 'Side effects may include allergic reactions, weight gain, flatulence, gas, bloating, and sometimes rashes and skin allergies,' said Bhui. Dr Kovil explained that such a spike can lead to serious health conditions such as heart problems, problems with eyesight, kidney problems, and damage to nerves, blood vessels, and organs. 'Constant spike in blood sugar levels can be extremely harmful for people with diabetes or insulin resistance,' said Dr Kovil. A post shared by Lavleen Kaur (@ Experts emphasise lowering consumption of both types of carbohydrates can be beneficial in various ways; it will lower blood pressure, clear skin, and improve cholesterol and heart health. There are significant health risks associated with overindulging in both. 'Since sugar encourages insulin resistance and fat buildup, it poses an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and dental cavities. Likewise, maltodextrin may result in gastrointestinal problems such as gas and bloating in addition to weight gain and increased blood sugar. According to certain studies, maltodextrin may also alter gut bacteria, which could have an impact on immunological and digestive system health,' added Dr Kapoor. Prioritise your health by 'limiting processed or junk food, which is jam-packed with preservatives, chemicals, and artificial sweeteners. These can adversely harm overall health', said Dr Kovil. Bhui stressed on the need to check food labels to ensure you are not consuming such dangerous food additives. Jayashree Narayanan writes on fitness, health, aviation safety, food, culture and everything lifestyle. She is an alumnus of AJKMCRC, Jamia Millia Islamia and Kamala Nehru College, University of Delhi ... Read More
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Samosa, jalebi to carry cigarette-style warnings soon; experts say risks go beyond diabetes and heart diseases
Imagine your favourite deep-fried snacks, like samosas and jalebis, coming with a warning label, just like cigarette packs! Sounds bizarre, right? But that's what the health ministry has suggested. In a move to combat rising obesity, the health ministry has ordered health warnings for deep-fried snacks like samosas and jalebis. According to a ToI report, the central health institutions, such as AIIMs Nagpur, have been instructed to install vivid 'oil and sugar boards' in cafeterias and public spaces. These informal posters will highlight the fat and sugar content in popular foods, effectively functioning like the health warning labels mentioned on cigarette packs. Warning signs on samosas and jalebis: Why the move matters? The initiative by the government includes the high-calorie, deep-fried, and sugar-loaded items, including jalebis and samosas, which will be included in an official 'health alert list,' as per the report. The step has been taken to fight back against the rising alarm over lifestyle diseases like cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and more. 'While samosas and jalebis are often associated with diabetes and heart disease, their impact on health goes far beyond these conditions. These deep-fried, high-calorie snacks can trigger a range of other serious health issues when consumed frequently,' says Dr. Rajiv Kovil, Head of Diabetology, Zandra Healthcare, and Co-founder of the Rang De Neela Initiative. Risk of 'samosas and jalebis' goes beyond heart diseases and diabetes According to Dr. Kovil, 'These high-calorie snacks contribute to obesity, which is a gateway to numerous chronic conditions. The refined flour (maida), sugar, and unhealthy fats lead to excessive calorie intake with minimal nutritional value, promoting fat accumulation, especially visceral fat.' 'Secondly, they may aggravate digestive problems. Deep-fried foods slow down digestion, often causing acidity, bloating, and constipation. The overuse of poor-quality oils and the reheating of fats can also produce harmful compounds that irritate the gut lining,' he added. Samosas and jalebis also raise the risk of fatty liver disease and insulin resistance, even in non-diabetics, due to the excess fat and sugar burden on the liver. Additionally, high sugar intake has been linked to cognitive decline and mood disorders, including anxiety and depression. Frequent consumption may also suppress immunity, increase inflammation, and disturb hormonal balance, contributing to conditions like PCOS in women. In short, these festive favourites can quietly harm multiple organ systems when eaten in excess. Now, a health warning for samosa, jalebi. The Union health ministry has ordered all central institutions to install 'oil and sugar boards' — posters spelling out how much fat and sugar lurk in everyday snacks alerting citizens to sugar and oil content in snacks. Samosa, jalebi… 'India's popular street foods join contentious list: equal to cigarettes in health warning' India's popular street foods, jalebi and samosa, have joined a surprising and contentious list: equal to cigarettes in health warning. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) issued a recent advisory that has brought ultra-processed foods (UPFs) into focus and suggested increased labelling and consumer education. 'The ICMR, in collaboration with the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), identified the overabundance of sugar, salt, and unsaturated fats in foods such as samosas, jalebis, and processed food items as public health risk factors,' says Dr. Bhanu Mishra, Consultant-Nephrologist at BLK Max Hospital, New Delhi. Dr. Mishra adds, 'While cigarettes have addictive nicotine and actively induce cancer, UPFs primarily induce lifestyle diseases such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. The report proposes such popular, culturally useful snacks are highly susceptible to excessive consumption and usage in ignorance of their health effects.' Health workers are now supporting cigarette-style warnings on UPFs, ranging from brightly colored stickers to education campaigns. 'The recommendation has been contentious—some describe it as a wake-up call, others as an attack on authentic Indian food,' states Dr. Mishra. However, the step is a reflection of increasing international interest in the outbreak of non-communicable diseases caused by unhealthy eating habits. While India is facing a health crisis, the step has the potential to create a milestone in the regulation and consumption of food.
Indian Express
10-07-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
As Mattel introduces first Barbie with Type 1 diabetes, experts highlight the ‘essential' need to manage blood sugar in children
As part of broader efforts to increase inclusivity, Mattel recently introduced its first Barbie doll representing a person with Type 1 diabetes. In an announcement, Mattel said the idea was to design a doll that 'truly captures the community' with accessories that 'accurately reflect the medical equipment' people with Type 1 diabetes may need. The new Barbie doll has a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), a device that tracks blood sugar levels, on her arm — while holding a phone displaying an accompanying app. She also has an insulin pump attached to her waist. The doll also comes with a blue purse that can be used to carry other essential supplies or snacks, as reported by PTI. Taking a cue from the California-based toy maker's efforts to create awareness about children with type 1 diabetes, we turned to experts to learn more about how blood sugar management is a growing concern and is essential to prevent the condition. Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology, Zandra Healthcare, and co-founder, Rang De Neela Initiative, said type 1 diabetes (T1D) in India presents a growing challenge, primarily due to the high rates of uncontrolled blood sugar among patients. 'Unlike type 2 diabetes, T1D typically affects children and young adults who are insulin-dependent for life. Despite the availability of insulin, a large proportion of people with T1D in India struggle to maintain glycemic control. This is due to several factors, including limited awareness, lack of structured diabetes education, financial constraints, and inadequate access to advanced diabetes technologies like insulin pumps or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs),' Dr Kovil noted. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. 'Since insulin plays a vital role in regulating blood sugar levels, the absence or extremely low levels of insulin lead to a buildup of glucose in the blood, resulting in type 1 diabetes. This condition is typically diagnosed in children and younger adults,' said Dr Narander Singla, lead consultant, internal medicine, CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi. According to Dr Kovil, many patients rely on outdated insulin regimens or irregular blood sugar testing, which leads to frequent episodes of both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. 'These fluctuations increase the risk of long-term complications like kidney failure, vision loss, and heart disease. Social stigma and emotional stress further compound the burden, especially for young individuals managing a lifelong illness with little support,' said Dr Kovil. For individuals with T1D, Dr Singla emphasised the importance of understanding the close relationship between diet, insulin, and blood sugar levels. 'Regular monitoring of blood glucose is necessary to adjust insulin doses appropriately. Since the pancreas cannot produce insulin in this condition, insulin therapy is essential and cannot be replaced by oral medications,' said Dr Singla. Unstable sugar levels can affect mood, focus, sleep, and overall quality of life, said Dr Rituja Ugalmugle, consultant, internal medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central. 'Many children feel tired, irritable, or mentally foggy without realising that fluctuating glucose might be the cause. Timely diagnosis and ongoing management are essential. Regular monitoring, balanced meals, physical activity, and medication if necessary can help keep blood sugar within a healthy range. In fact, early intervention can prevent complications altogether or significantly slow their progression,' said Dr Ugalmugle. Additionally, managing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can help prevent blood sugar spikes, Dr Singla said. 'Routine medical check-ups are equally important for monitoring overall health and making any necessary adjustments to treatment,' said Dr Singla. What more? Dr Kovil also rued that the healthcare infrastructure in India is 'still not fully equipped to offer specialised care for T1D'. 'Multidisciplinary clinics, trained educators, and digital monitoring remain concentrated in urban centers, leaving rural populations underserved. Addressing this crisis requires policy-level focus, public awareness campaigns, affordable access to insulin and technology, and most importantly, compassionate care tailored to young lives living with T1D,' said Dr Kovil. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Indian Express
19-06-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Why experts caution against blindly believing that the ‘insulin plant' can help reduce blood sugar levels in 12 weeks
The insulin plant (scientific name: Costus igneus) has gained popularity in recent years for its potential blood sugar-lowering properties. Some preliminary studies, including the 2024 International Journal Of Pharmaceutical Sciences And Research, and other anecdotal evidence suggest that chewing its leaves may have a mild glucose-lowering effect, likely due to compounds that improve insulin sensitivity. However, experts emphasise that it is 'often falsely promoted as a natural cure for diabetes'. Dr Hiran S. Reddy, consultant physician, diabetologist and critical care specialist, Gleneagles Hospital, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad, said that the 'insulin plant has gained popularity in alternative medicine circles for its potential to help regulate blood sugar levels'. 'From a medical standpoint, while some early studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that regular consumption of the leaves may aid in glycaemic control, the clinical evidence remains limited and inconclusive,' said Dr Reddy. Notably, diabetes is a complex metabolic condition that requires a holistic approach, including medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring. 'There is no scientific evidence that the plant can reduce or replace the need for insulin in people with diabetes,' added Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology, Zandra Healthcare and Co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative. Believing otherwise is dangerous and can lead to poor blood sugar control, serious complications, and even life-threatening consequences, cautioned Dr Kovil. While admitting that preliminary research indicates that the plant may possess insulin-mimetic and glucose-lowering properties, Dr Reddy continued, 'The bioactive compounds in its leaves could help enhance insulin sensitivity and promote glucose uptake by cells. Some small-scale studies have reported modest improvements in fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels when taken consistently over 8 to 12 weeks. However, it is important to note that large-scale, peer-reviewed clinical trials do not yet support these findings.' 'Diabetes management must be based on proven medical therapies, not myths or herbal hype,' said Dr Kovil. ' Dr Pranav Ghody, consultant endocrinologist and diabetologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, concurred and asserted that it is 'not a substitute for standard diabetes treatment'. According to Dr Ghody, no robust clinical evidence currently proves that chewing insulin leaves alone can reverse diabetes or normalise sugar levels in 12 weeks. 'Using herbal remedies like the insulin plant may be considered a supportive therapy only after consulting a qualified doctor,' said Dr Ghody. Experts urge that the insulin plant should not be considered a standalone treatment for diabetes. Dr Reddy said that while it may be used as a complementary therapy, only under medical supervision, especially for individuals with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, patients must continue with prescribed medications, regular monitoring, and lifestyle measures such as diet and exercise. 'Using herbal remedies without guidance can risk interactions or delay effective treatment. Always consult your physician before incorporating such plants into your routine,' said Dr Reddy. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Indian Express
16-06-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Tamil actor Sneha shares diet, fitness routine: ‘It works for me when…'
Tamil actor Sneha, fondly called Punnagai arisi or the smiling queen, opened up about adhering to a balanced diet and ensuring she stays on track with her weight. 'I have done everything. Yoga, HIIT, aerobics. Now, my body doesn't listen to me. Now, weight is working for me for almost a year,' Sneha, 43, told fitness influencer Ramya Subramanian. Emphasising that she feels 'very strong' after weight training, she said she supplements it with her diet, which is 'clean and neat'. 'I eat everything. It depends on how many calories you take in a day. I do macro counting. I don't have sugar except maybe once a month. It works for me when I cut down on sugar. My diet is a mix of carbs, minerals and fibre, and protein. It is grilled. I drink a lot of water. I eat clean, neat food. I eat less masala, less salt,' the Dragon actor added. Taking a cue from her admission, let's understand how cutting down sugar works for weight loss. Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology, Zandra Healthcare, and co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative, pointed out that reducing or eliminating added sugar from your diet can significantly support weight loss efforts. 'Sugar, especially in processed foods and sugary beverages, is a source of empty calories — high in energy but low in nutrients. When you cut sugar, you naturally reduce your calorie intake, which can help create the calorie deficit needed for weight loss,' said Dr Kovil. A post shared by Sneha (@realactress_sneha) Sugary foods also spike blood sugar and insulin levels, increasing fat storage and hunger shortly after eating. 'By removing sugar, especially from drinks like sodas, flavoured coffees, and packaged snacks, many people report feeling fuller and experiencing fewer cravings. This improved satiety often leads to better portion control and healthier food choices,' Dr Kovil asserted. According to Dr Kovil, eliminating added sugars can, on average, help reduce daily calorie intake by 200–500 calories, potentially leading to 0.5 to 1 kg of weight loss per week, depending on the individual. In short, cutting sugar is a powerful step, but it is best when combined with a holistic health approach. However, sugar is only one part of the puzzle. Sustainable weight loss depends on dietary habits, physical activity, sleep, and stress management. Simply cutting sugar without addressing other lifestyle factors may result in only modest or short-term weight loss. 'Simplifying your diet by using less oil, salt, and spices makes your meals easier to digest, reduces water retention and bloating,' said Dr Aarti Ullal, physician and diabetologist, Gleneagles Hospital Parel. Choosing whole, fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, and simple home-cooked meals gives your body the nutrients it needs without excess calories that can impact your weight. 'Combined with regular movement and hydration, this approach supports fat loss, improves metabolism, and long-term weight management without extreme diets or stress,' said Dr Ullal. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
