Latest news with #RangDeNeelaInitiative
Time of India
2 days ago
- 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
02-07-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
As anti-obesity drug Wegovy launches in India, patients share experience using drugs like Mounjaro; doctors weigh in effectiveness
In 2018, V G, a 51-year-old man from Mumbai, was rushed to the hospital with accelerated hypertension and required aggressive medical intervention. With a history of pre-diabetes, high cholesterol, and a longstanding smoking habit, he was at significant cardiometabolic risk. At the time, he weighed 116 kg, with a BMI of 36.6 and an alarming waist circumference of 112 cm. Earlier this year, under medical supervision, V G began taking Mounjaro (tirzepatide) at a 5 mg dose. Within a few months, he lost 8 kg and reduced his waist circumference by 6 cm — an indication of significant visceral fat loss. His blood sugar levels also returned to the normal range, reversing his pre-diabetes. V G's journey shows that Injectable weight-loss drugs like Mounjaro and Wegovy are rapidly reshaping how India tackles obesity and related health issues. While Mounjaro has been available in India since March 2025, Wegovy – a brand name for high-dose semaglutide – was only launched in June. 'Yes, a lot of people are opening up to the use of anti-obesity medications. These drugs, both Wegovy and Mounjaro, are approved for chronic weight management and diabetes,' said Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology, Zandra Healthcare, and co-founder, Rang De Neela Initiative. Calling these drugs a 'game changer globally' and now in India, Varun Rattan, founder, Evolve Fitness, attributed the demand to 'rising obesity and intense cultural pressures'. Dr Prashant Hansraj Salvi, consultant, minimal invasive, bariatric and metabolic Surgery, Jupiter Hospital, Thane, said global interest in these drugs is being mirrored in India. 'While detailed local data is limited, the international trend clearly shows growing acceptance,' Dr Salvi said. Dr Vyankatesh Shivane, consultant diabetologist and metabolic physician, department of endocrinology, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, told that young Indians in their 30s and 40s are inquiring about these drugs. 'Social media has played a key role in spreading awareness about Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic. While Ozempic was originally used to treat type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro and Wegovy are now considered anti-obesity agents,' he said. Dr Shivane noted that according to Indian BMI guidelines, anyone with a BMI over 25 – or with associated risk factors like hypertension, cholesterol, diabetes or PCOD – may be eligible for these treatments. A 31-year-old woman, weighing 104.3 kg, began taking Mounjaro at 2.5 mg per week in April 2025. After completing the initial four-week course, the dosage was increased to 5 mg. 'It helped with appetite control and reduced cravings, especially for sugar and junk food,' she said. At her last consultation in May, she had lost almost 6 kgs. Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy belong to a class of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, originally developed to treat diabetes and weight loss. They mimic a natural gut hormone (GLP-1) that stimulates insulin production and lowers blood sugar. 'Ozempic is the injectable semaglutide brand approved for diabetes, while Wegovy is the brand approved for obesity. Both have the same molecules, but dosing is slightly different. The dosing for Wegovy is higher because these drugs work at a lower dose as an anti-diabetic medicine and at a higher dose as an anti-obesity drug,' said Dr Kovil. Dr Shivane pointed out that the effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists has become clear over the past 15 years. 'The first such drug marketed in India was liraglutide (Victoza), which caused around 8–10 per cent weight loss over six to eight months. Now we have newer, more potent versions like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro,' Dr Shivane said. Dr Kovil said obesity contributes to conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, blood pressure, sleep apnea, fatty liver, arthritis, and even 14 types of cancer. 'Drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can help people with obesity (without diabetes) lose 15–20 per cent of their weight, leading to remission of several related health issues and improving overall function,' said Dr Kovil. However, Dr Salvi stressed these are long-term treatments for medical obesity, not quick fixes or cosmetic solutions, and must be used under medical supervision. Ozempic is injectable semaglutide, but it is not available in India. Wegovy, now available in India, is semaglutide at a higher dose. 'Both Ozempic and Wegovy have been shown to cause 16–18 per cent weight loss in 52 weeks,' said Dr Shivane. Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, a dual receptor agonist (GLP-1 and GIP), and differs from semaglutide. 'This 'twincretin' effect has shown 22–25 per cent weight loss in clinical studies, more than either semaglutide-based drug,' said Dr Shivane. 'The dual action improves weight loss and blood sugar control,' said Dr Kovil. These drugs are typically injected once a week subcutaneously, like insulin. An oral version of semaglutide (Rybelsus) is also available but is less effective than the injectable form, said Dr Shivane. Dr Kovil concurred: 'When the two hormones are combined, it helps in better weight loss and better blood sugar control.' Administered once a week via subcutaneous injection, similar to insulin –– every Sunday, for example, and the patient can self-administer the injection –– these drugs are highly effective in aiding weight loss. Semaglutide is also available as an oral tablet called Rybelsus, said Dr Shivane. 'While it is more affordable and widely accepted, its weight loss efficacy is lower than injectable semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy), possibly due to absorption or dosing factors,' he said. These drugs reduce stomach emptying and suppress appetite. 'They also target brain centres that regulate cravings,' said Dr Kovil. Normally, when a person eats less, the body reduces its basal metabolic rate (BMR), making it harder to lose weight. 'But these drugs prevent that drop in BMR, helping patients continue to burn calories efficiently,' he said. Common side effects – with Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic – include nausea, vomiting, acidity, burping, hiccups, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and appetite loss. 'Rarer complications include pancreatitis, retinal changes (necessitating eye exams), and increased risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma, especially for those with a family history,' Dr Shivane said, adding that before prescribing these medications, it's important to take a complete family history check. The 31-year-old patient reported mild weakness near the end of the week before her next dose, occasional dehydration, and a disrupted menstrual cycle, which lasted only 1.5 days. Patients with existing gastrointestinal issues or gallstones need extra caution. 'These drugs are not for everyone. A thorough medical and family history is essential,' said Dr Kovil. The upside is that these drugs have also undergone large cardiovascular outcome trials. 'They've shown significant reductions in all-cause mortality in high-risk patients with diabetes or heart/kidney issues. Hence, the US FDA has recommended their use in such high-risk patients,' said Dr Shivane. According to Dr Kovil, injectable therapies offer scalability and a non-invasive option compared to bariatric surgery, which is restricted to a smaller patient population. However, he warned that stopping these drugs often results in weight regain, typically 10–12 per cent, within a year. 'These medications are most effective when taken long-term and paired with lifestyle changes,' Dr Kovil said. For V G, the benefits extended well beyond glycemic control. 'His need for blood pressure medications reduced from three to two, and he cut his smoking habit in half, showing better overall health awareness,' said Dr Kovil. Experts reiterated that these medications are not magic bullets. 'They're not substitutes for healthy habits. Diet and exercise remain the cornerstone of any weight loss journey,' said Dr Kovil. The female patient admitted that she has not been able to follow workouts 'diligently due to my work and lifestyle,' but manages at least 25 minutes a day with Zumba, weights, pickleball/badminton. 'Previously, the workout was zero,' she said. Experts recommended a diet that is low in carbohydrates and fat, and high in fibre and protein. As for exercise, they recommended at least 45–60 minutes daily, including muscle-strengthening or cardio exercises like cycling, swimming, jogging, skipping, brisk walking, or stair climbing. It's also important to note that muscle loss is common if these medications are not paired with a balanced diet and expert guidance, making professional supervision key, said Dr Salvi. Rattan asserted that while these drugs take the edge off constant hunger, they increase the need for expert guidance. 'Nutritionists and trainers aren't being replaced, but their roles are evolving. They are your essential partners, ensuring this powerful tool translates into safe, healthy, and lasting results. The fat loss journey still needs them, just differently,' said Rattan. In clinical practice, Dr Shivane first recommends a three-month trial of diet and exercise. 'Only if the patient is compliant but doesn't lose weight, do I prescribe Mounjaro or Wegovy,' he said. Cost remains a significant barrier – monthly expenses can range from Rs 25,000 to Rs 40,000, and insurance doesn't cover it. 'None of these medications work in isolation. The best outcomes are seen when they're combined with strict diet and regular exercise,' Dr Shivane said. 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. 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
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.
Indian Express
07-06-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Saumya Tandon shares habits that changed her life: ‘Sone se ek ghanta pehle…'
Saumya Tandon, a popular actor and television presenter, often uses her social media to share snippets of her life. In a recent Instagram post, she shared a quick recap of 5 healthy habits that, she claims, have changed her life for the better. Listing them in the video, she also encouraged her viewers to share their life-changing habits in the comments below. '5 habits that changed my life, which I'm very proud of. Share yours too,' she is heard saying in the video. 'Leave sugar, honey, jaggery. Koi zaroorat nahi hai, no health benefits,' the Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain! actor said. Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology at Zandra Healthcare and co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative, called sugar the biggest addiction in the world. 'Within days of quitting, your blood sugar stabilises, reducing energy crashes and sugar cravings. Insulin spikes decrease, promoting fat burn and better energy levels,' he said, adding that energy remains stable, and mood swings reduce. Many people report feeling more alert and focused. Cutting sugar can significantly reduce inflammation, easing joint pain and improving skin conditions like acne, added Dr Kovil. According to Kanikka Malhotra, a clinical nutritionist and diabetes educator, if overloaded, excess sugar gets converted into fat and stored throughout the body. She said this can contribute to weight gain and increase your risk of developing chronic health problems like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Don't workout for six months and let it go; be consistent in your approach. 'Most importantly, lift weights. Women, especially should do so,' she said. According to Dr Anup Khatri, senior consultant, orthopedics, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, staying physically active can help improve muscle strength and boost endurance. High-intense activities like sprinting can help build muscle, increase stamina, and also improve cardiovascular health. 'Sprinting can also help in burning calories and easily lose weight, especially fat from the body,' he said, adding that consistency is key. According to him, it is important to maintain a consistent workout regime for better results as taking frequent breaks can disrupt the entire process, making your muscles shrink back to their natural form. 'Koi idea aaya hai, kuch life mein karna chahte ho, koi vision hai…likh lo. It just clears up your mind,' the actor suggested. Dr Rimpa Sarkar, psychologist and founder of Sentier Wellness, told that writing your thoughts and goals signals to your subconscious that these things in life matter, keeping you motivated. It also activates the reticular activating system (RAS) in the brain, making you more aware of relevant opportunities. '10 page padhlo, 20 page padhlo. It broadens your horizons and improves your personality. There is so much more to talk to everybody about when you read,' was Tandon's precious advice. Delhi-based psychiatrist Dr Uma Naidoo shared that reading has various mental health benefits, and pleasure reading can be utilised to help you relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Reading is associated with increased focus, and also helps strengthen your cognitive ability. 'You will experience improved quality of sleep after reading, which is also linked to empathy development. It can be used as an escape as well as a tool to increase your attention span, and increase your knowledge,' she added. 'Keep your gadgets, social media, phone out of your bedroom. Sone se ek ghanta pehle, chhodh do sab kuch. Connect with your loved ones, read something, have meaningful conversations,' added Tandon. Dr Shaunak Ajinkya, consultant, psychiatrist, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Mumbai, shared that excessively using smartphone devices at night can lead to struggle with falling asleep or restless nights. This can be attributed to the blue light emitted by phone screens, which is known to disrupt melatonin production and interfere with the body's natural sleep cycle, he said. 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.
