Latest news with #Singhla
Indian Express
02-07-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Why FSSAI wants you to defrost and clean the fridge every two weeks during monsoon
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has released some new guidelines for food safety during the monsoon. Other than the usual recommendations about washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly and maintaining hygiene, one of the tips notably surprised us. The apex food regulator body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare noted that you should 'clean your fridge inside out and defrost it every 2 weeks.' We talked to Dr Narendra Singhla, Lead Consultant – Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, to understand why one must do this, especially during the monsoon. The monsoon season brings with it an increase in humidity, which can affect various aspects of daily life, including how we store and preserve food. Dr Singhla highlights the importance of regular fridge maintenance during this time. #Monsoon is a time of freshness and pleasant weather to enjoy, while personal #hygiene and #foodsafety can be a big concern! Here's your guide to #FoodSafety and #EatRight during Monsoons!!! #FSSAIMonsoon @MoHFW_INDIA — FSSAI (@fssaiindia) August 11, 2024 FSSAI recommends defrosting and cleaning your fridge every two weeks during the monsoon season to ensure food safety and hygiene. The heightened humidity during monsoon leads to moisture accumulation inside the fridge, which can create an ideal environment for bacterial and fungal growth. This is particularly concerning because these pathogens can thrive in such conditions, potentially contaminating stored food, Dr Singhla said. Regular cleaning and defrosting help remove spills, food particles, and moisture that could otherwise harbour these microorganisms. By keeping the fridge clean and dry, you minimise the risk of foodborne illnesses and ensure that the food remains safe for consumption. Additionally, defrosting helps maintain the fridge's efficiency, preventing frost build-up that can hinder its cooling performance. Failing to clean and defrost your fridge regularly during the monsoon can have serious health consequences. The combination of increased moisture and warm temperatures inside the fridge can lead to rapid food spoilage. When food spoils, it not only develops unpleasant odours and flavours but also becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens, Dr Singhla explained. Consuming contaminated food can result in various health issues, including digestive problems, infections, and even food poisoning. For individuals with weakened immune systems, the risks are even higher, making it essential to maintain a clean and well-functioning fridge. Maintaining a clean fridge is always important, but it becomes particularly crucial during the monsoon season due to the increased humidity and risk of contamination.
Indian Express
25-04-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Reasons your vitamin B12 levels are low despite eating meat
Of late, a deficiency in vitamin B12 — mainly found in animal products like meat, fish, and dairy — seems to have become extremely common, especially among those who consume these food groups. But why could that be happening? One common reason behind this could be poor absorption, said Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel Mumbai, adding that 'conditions like anaemia, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or even long-term use of medications can affect how the body absorbs B12 from the digestive tract.' Moreover, Dr Agarwal said that as people age, their stomachs produce less acid, which is necessary to release B12 from food. 'Some people also lack the protein needed to absorb B12 properly. Even with a meat-based diet, if your body can't absorb B12 efficiently, the levels can go down,' said Dr Agarwal. Concurring, Dr Narander Singhla, lead consultant in internal medicine at CK Birla Hospital® in Delhi, said certain medications can also interfere with vitamin B12 absorption. 'These include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine H2 blockers, commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid, and metformin, a drug often used to manage diabetes. In older adults, absorption can naturally decline due to age-related changes, including reduced stomach acid production,' said Dr Singhla. When should you opt for supplements? (/Thinkstock) Additionally, cooking methods may also impact the vitamin B12 content of food. 'Overcooking or using very high temperatures can lead to nutrient loss,' said Dr Singhla. The type of meat consumed also plays a role. 'Organ meats like liver are particularly rich in vitamin B12, whereas muscle meats such as beef or chicken contain comparatively lower amounts,' informed Dr Singhla. One with low vitamin B12 can experience symptoms such as fatigue, memory issues, numbness, and mood changes. To prevent vitamin B12 deficiency, consuming a balanced diet that includes vitamin B12-rich foods is essential. 'These include organ meats (like liver and kidneys), fish and seafood, dairy products (such as milk, cheese, and eggs), and fortified foods like breakfast cereals, plant-based milk, and nutritional yeast,' said Dr Singhla. If you suspect a deficiency, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider for testing and to discuss whether dietary changes or supplements may be necessary. 'A blood test can check your B12 levels, and if needed, supplements or B12 injections can be advised by the doctor. Take the supplements as per the expert's advice. Don't go overboard on supplements,' said Dr Agarwal.
Indian Express
22-04-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Down with dengue, Divyanka Tripathi drinks papaya leaves juice prepared by husband Vivek Dahiya; we find out if it helps increase platelet count
Yeh Hai Mohabbatein actor Divyanka Tripathi is down with dengue, her husband and actor Vivek Dahiya informed their fans in a YouTube video. He shared that following advice (and hearsay), he is ensuring Divyanka drinks raw papaya leaves juice to increase her platelet count. 'Whoever got to know that she got dengue has been advising me to make sure she has papita ke patte or papaya leaves juice,' Dahiya said in the vlog, while preparing the juice by crushing some leaves in a mortar and pestle and then squeezing the juice out. He then strains the juice and pours it into a cup, which Divyanka is seen drinking, her face displaying a not-so-pleasing expression. ' Shabaash! Pura pi gayi (Good! She finished it),' quipped Dahiya. But does raw papaya juice help dengue patients increase their platelet count? Dr RR Dutta, HOD, internal medicine, Paras Health, Gurugram, said the use of papaya leaf juice as a supportive remedy during dengue infection has garnered interest due to its potential role in improving platelet counts. Adding, Dr Narander Singla, lead consultant in internal medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, said papaya leaf juice has 'long been used in traditional medicine to treat dengue fever,' which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. However, he was quick to point out that individuals should always consult a healthcare professional before beginning any alternative or complementary therapy. What is known about papaya leaf juice? According to Dr Singhla, papaya leaf extracts contain bioactive compounds such as Kaempferol and Quercetin, which 'may possess antiviral properties.' These compounds are believed to inhibit the replication of the dengue virus, offering a potential complementary approach to managing the illness, said Dr Singhla. A study published in the 2022 International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that papaya leaf extracts demonstrated high binding affinities for the non-structural proteins NS3 and NS5 of the dengue virus, which play a crucial role in viral replication. 'This suggests that Kaempferol and Quercetin could be promising candidates for further investigation as antiviral agents,' said Dr Singhla. In addition to their antiviral effects, 'these extracts have shown the ability to significantly increase platelet counts in dengue patients—a critical factor in managing the disease,' said Dr Singhla. What to consider? Despite these promising findings, it is essential to exercise caution when using papaya leaf juice as a treatment, according to Dr Singhla. Drishya Ale, dietitian, Paras Health, Gurugram, concurred and shared that while some studies have shown promising results, it should be used with caution. 'Clinical trials have reported a rise in platelet counts among patients who consumed papaya leaf extract, but findings vary in terms of dosage, preparation methods, and the patient's response. It's important to note that while papaya leaf juice might be considered a supportive measure, it should not replace standard medical treatment for dengue,' said Ale. Does papaya leaves juice help? We ask experts (Photo: Freepik) Monitoring platelet levels regularly is also essential to ensure treatment efficacy and safety, said Dr Singhla. Anyone considering it should do so under medical supervision to avoid potential side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions, Ale added. 'Close monitoring, adequate hydration, and supportive care remain the cornerstones of treatment, and any natural remedies should only be used after consulting a physician to ensure they are safe and appropriate for the individual's condition,' said Dr Dutta.
