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Time of India
5 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
Time of India
30-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
What to do when your blood sugar soars to 350 after meals, expert tips you need
Seeing your blood sugar spike to 350 mg/dL after a meal can be frightening but you're not alone. Doctors believe it is more common than you realize, and the good news is that there are steps you can take right away to manage it. Tracking sugar levels with a glucometer or CGM can help detect problems early on. Always consult your doctor if your symptoms persist or you begin taking new medications. Why does your sugar spike so high after eating? The body develops insulin resistance, in which insulin is either not produced effectively or cannot be used properly because it is trapped in fat cells (adipocytes), which results in high blood sugar levels , according to Dr. Manisha Arora, director of internal medicine at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, reporetd The Indian Express. There are two main ways that insulin is secreted- bolus secretion, which is driven by meal intake, and basal secretion, which happens even during fasting. Live Events Blood sugar levels can be quickly raised by consuming foods high in carbohydrates or high in glycemic index, such as cakes or sweets. ALSO READ: Tired, achy, or moody? These could be sneaky signs of a Vitamin D deficiency According to Dr. Arora, there are further contributing variables such as the usage of specific drugs like steroids, excessive stress, or underlying medical issues, as per a report by The Indian Express. Blood sugar levels can reach 350 mg/dL due to a combination of eating high-carb or sugary meals or ultra-processed foods, skipping meals and then overeating later, and irregular meal timing, according to Dr. Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology at Zandra Healthcare and co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative. Even inaccurate insulin dosage and the absence of insulin or oral medicines can result in such circumstances, as per the report. What kind of food should I focus on? Dr. Arora suggests a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet of full, unprocessed foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in order to control blood sugar spikes that occur after meals. How can I lower my sugar fast and safely? Frequent exercise is also essential for lowering blood sugar and increasing insulin sensitivity. It can also be beneficial to follow prescription drug regimens and stress-reduction methods like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. All things considered, managing elevated postprandial blood sugar levels requires a well-rounded strategy. Guidelines for the management of sugar levels, as per the report. Regular monitoring: To identify spikes early, use a glucometer or CGM. Medication adherence: Take insulin and oral medications as directed, adjusting dosages as necessary. Dietary management: Steer clear of foods high in glycemic index and simple sugars. Have frequent meals with fiber and protein, and using carbohydrate counting if on insulin, especially for people with type 1 diabetes. Exercise: Get regular exercise, even if it's just a quick stroll, but refrain from vigorous exercise when your blood sugar is elevated. Reduce stress by engaging in yoga, mindfulness, or relaxation exercises. Sick-Day protocols: Increase the frequency of blood sugar and ketones checks and never skip insulin when sick. Examine medications: Before beginning steroids, other medications, or supplements, let your doctor know. FAQs Is it normal for my blood sugar to reach 350 after a meal? No, that is too high. It could mean that your body isn't using insulin properly or that you're missing important medications or meals. What should I do right now if this happens frequently? Monitor your blood sugar levels on a regular basis, take your medications as prescribed, adjust your diet, and consult your physician. Economic Times WhatsApp channel )
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Business Standard
24-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Novo Nordisk launches Wegovy in India to tackle obesity and heart risk
Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk on Tuesday launched its anti-obesity drug Wegovy in India. This once-a-week injectable, already used widely in the US and Europe, is now being distributed locally and will be available in Indian pharmacies by month-end. What is Wegovy and how does it help in weight loss? Wegovy contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a natural hormone to regulate appetite. It helps control cravings and enhances satiety, making it easier to follow a healthier lifestyle. The drug is approved for long-term weight management and for reducing major cardiovascular risks in obese and overweight individuals. Wegovy effectiveness: How much weight can you lose? Clinical trials have shown that one in three users can lose up to twenty per cent of their body weight in just over a year (sixty-eight weeks) when Wegovy is used along with diet and exercise. Wegovy's health benefits beyond weight loss According to Dr Rajiv Kovil of Zandra Healthcare, Wegovy significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular complications, slows the progression of kidney disease, and improves outcomes in diabetic patients. 'It should be viewed as a long-term tool for disease prevention and healthier ageing,' he said. Who is eligible to take Wegovy in India? Wegovy is prescribed for adults with: It must be taken under medical supervision due to possible side effects. How to use Wegovy: Dosage and administration Wegovy is injected once a week using a pre-filled pen. The dosage is gradually increased over several weeks: 0.25 mg → 0.5 mg → 1 mg → 1.7 mg → up to 2.4 mg (full therapeutic dose) What is the cost of Wegovy in India? Novo Nordisk has announced tiered pricing for the drug: ₹17,345 per month for the 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1 mg doses ₹24,280 per month for the 1.7 mg dose ₹26,015 per month for the full 2.4 mg dose Why India needs anti-obesity drugs like Wegovy India is facing an escalating obesity crisis. A 2023 study found that over 254 million Indians are overweight or obese. This raises the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, liver problems, and certain cancers. Should you take Wegovy for weight loss in India? Wegovy is not a cosmetic quick fix. It is a medically supervised therapy meant to complement lifestyle interventions. Users must continue to follow a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and monitor for side effects such as nausea and digestive discomfort.
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.
