Latest news with #NIDDK
Hindustan Times
03-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Nutritionist shares monsoon diet tips for better digestion and gut health
Are you aware of the gut health challenges that the monsoon season presents? As the rains sweep across regions, bringing relief from the scorching summer, they also create a breeding ground for various digestive issues. With the increased humidity and temperature fluctuations, our digestive systems face a range of challenges, leading to problems such as indigestion, bloating, and food poisoning. Stay healthy this rainy season(ADOBE) Understanding the reasons behind these digestive disruptions during the monsoon is crucial. Changes in our environment impact our bodies, making it more challenging than ever to maintain gut health. Dhriti Jain, a Nutritionist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, sheds light on the factors contributing to the uptick in digestive issues during the rainy season. Why does our digestion slow down in the monsoon? Several interconnected factors contribute to slow digestion during this period. The concept of "digestive fire', derived from Ayurveda, suggests that the monsoon dampens this fire, resulting in reduced nutrient absorption and slow digestion. The drop in atmospheric pressure can also impact blood flow and metabolism, while increased humidity disrupts gut flora, impairing enzyme function. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), the common gut issues that arise during this season demand our attention, including loose stools, diarrhoea, and a sudden loss of appetite. Understanding these symptoms is the first step toward effective management. What foods should be on your radar during the monsoon? With the heightened risk of contamination, certain food items should be avoided to protect your gut health. Raw leafy greens and salads, for instance, can harbour bacteria if not washed thoroughly; hence, cooking these items properly is recommended. for instance, can harbour bacteria if not washed thoroughly; hence, cooking these items properly is recommended. Seafood is another concern, as monsoon conditions increase its susceptibility to spoilage, thereby raising the risk of foodborne illnesses. is another concern, as monsoon conditions increase its susceptibility to spoilage, thereby raising the risk of foodborne illnesses. Street food, often associated with poor hygiene practices, should also be treated with caution. Dairy products The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service warns that unpasteurized items can become unsafe during humid months due to rapid bacterial growth. Even the thirst-quenching allure of cold beverages can disrupt digestion by cooling the body's internal environment, weakening our digestive efficiency. Stay healthy this rainy season(ADOBE) Gut-friendly foods: Probiotics and prebiotics To counteract these challenges, incorporating gut-friendly foods into your diet becomes essential, as noted in the Cell Host & Microbe journal. Probiotics, which are live beneficial bacteria found in items like curd and kefir, are vital for maintaining gut health. which are live beneficial bacteria found in items like curd and kefir, are vital for maintaining gut health. Similarly, high-fibre prebiotics found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains nourish these helpful bacteria, ensuring their optimal performance. A balanced meal plan During the monsoon, focus on immune-boosting, easily digestible foods to fend off infections. For example, starting your day with lukewarm water and soaked nuts, followed by a breakfast of moong dal chilla (lentil crepe), can set a positive tone for the day. Snacking on roasted chickpeas or foxnuts (makhana), paired with herbal tea, provides additional support for maintaining gut health. Food safety tips for the monsoon Making safe food choices is crucial during this period: Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly and keeping your kitchen and utensils clean can minimise the risk of contamination. Maintaining personal hygiene is equally essential; washing hands before and after handling food can prevent foodborne illnesses. The challenges posed by the monsoon season necessitate proactive measures to safeguard our gut health. As digestive issues become more prevalent, taking preventive measures such as maintaining a balanced diet and practising good hygiene can significantly reduce the risk. With mindful dietary choices and awareness, we can navigate this season while preserving our digestive well-being.
Hindustan Times
20-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Nephrologists bust 7 common myths about kidney disease: Is it actually preventable to is dialysis inevitable
According to the US-based National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), chronic kidney disease means that the kidneys are damaged and can't filter blood as they should. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Saiprasad Sahoo, senior consultant – nephrology, Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, shared that when it comes to maintaining kidney health, there are several myths that prevent people from taking the right steps to protect their kidneys. Also read | Do you overuse paracetamol? Urologist says it can increase kidney cancer risk; know these 10 everyday habits to avoid Dr Sahoo said, 'Kidneys are the silent warriors of the body – they filter waste, regulate electrolyte balance and blood pressure (BP), and keep us healthy. However, kidneys are susceptible to damage from various factors like poor diet, lifestyle habits, and underlying health conditions. Apart from lifestyle factors, kidney disease is also aggravated by known risk factors like diabetes and high blood pressure.' He added that to maintain kidney health, make conscious dietary choices and healthy lifestyle habits: 'Track your health parameters, eat good food, stay hydrated, avoid smoking, and manage your stress to ensure that your kidneys remain functional for a long time.' According to Dr Maria Bethsaida Manual, consultant, nephrology, and transplant physician, Manipal Hospital Whitefield, there are several myths surrounding kidney disease that 'lead to confusion, and delayed diagnosis and treatment'. Dr Sahoo and Dr Manual shared a bunch of myths they wish you would stop believing: 1. 'One such myth is that only the elderly are at risk of kidney disease. In reality, kidney issues can affect people of all ages, especially those with diabetes, high BP, or a family history of kidney issues,' Dr Sahoo said. 2. Does drinking water prevent kidney disease? According to Dr Manual: 'Staying hydrated is important to kidney health, but in some kidney diseases, such as End-Stage Renal Disease or Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 5, overhydration can be harmful.' 3. Dr Manual said that people think no symptoms mean the kidneys are fine. 'Kidney disease progresses silently, which means there are no symptoms until significant damage has already occurred,' she said. 4. 'Another popular belief is that herbal products can cure kidney disease. However, many herbal remedies contain unregulated and toxic substances that may be harmful to the kidneys. Therefore, please visit your doctor before using them exclusively,' Dr Sahoo said. 5. He added, 'Many people think that painkillers are harmless. But not many realise that overuse of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can damage the kidneys in people with existing risk factors.' 6. Another myth is that dialysis is inevitable if you have kidney disease. However, according to Dr Manual, 'Not all patients progress to ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease). Many patients can maintain stable kidney function for years with proper lifestyle and medical treatment.' 7. Many also think that kidney disease is not preventable. Reacting to which, Dr Manual said, 'While not all forms are preventable, healthy lifestyle changes like controlling BP, blood glucose, and staying active gradually reduce the risk of disease progression.' 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.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
What is gestational diabetes?
(NewsNation) — Diabetes affects the lives of tens of millions of Americans. Gestational diabetes is part of this total but specifically affects 5% to 9% of pregnant women in America, per the CDC. As the name suggests, it is a variant of diabetes that forms in a woman during pregnancy. Oftentimes, it develops around the 24th week of pregnancy in cases where the body is unable to produce adequate amounts of insulin to combat increased blood sugar levels. The increased blood sugar levels are a result of hormonal changes throughout the gestation period. Per the Centers for Disease Controla nd Prevention, symptoms often do not appear. If they do exist, they are generally mild and can involve urinating more frequently than usual and being thirstier than usual. The CDC recommends that women be tested to determine if they have gestational diabetes. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases recommends losing extra weight before getting pregnant if you are overweight. Regularly being physically active before and during pregnancy can decrease the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes. If one develops gestational diabetes, the likelihood of type 2 diabetes can be heightened, but can be somewhat curtailed by making healthy choices, per the NIDDK. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
30-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Active ingredient in weight loss drug Wegovy may help treat type of fatty liver disease: Study
The active ingredient in the popular weight loss drug Wegovy may help treat a type of fatty liver disease, according to new research. The disease, known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), occurs where fat builds up in the liver, leading to inflammation, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. MASH can lead to scarring and even permanent liver damage. It can also lead to liver failure or cancer -- increasing the risk of transplant or chemotherapy -- and significantly raise the risk of liver-related death. MORE: Active ingredient in Ozempic, Wegovy may reduce risk of Alzheimer's disease: Study The condition is believed to affect an estimated 1.5% to 6.5% of U.S. adults, according to the NIDDK. In the study, published Wednesday in the New England Journal of Medicine and conducted by researchers in the U.S., U.K., Denmark, France. Italy and Germany, patients received doses of semaglutide, the active ingredient used to treat diabetes in Ozempic and obesity in Wegovy. The patients started on low doses and increased gradually, reaching the full Wegovy dose over 72 weeks. Researchers found that about two-thirds of patients had less liver inflammation, and about one-third had improvement in liver scarring, a more advanced stage of damage. Additionally, one-third of patients improved in both inflammation and scarring. These benefits appeared in people with and without diabetes. Patients also lost an average of 8.5% of their body weight during the 72-week study. "We knew from studies of lifestyle interventions that as little as five to 10% weight loss was associated with substantial improvements in liver fat and MASH," Dr. Robert Brown Jr., chief of gastroenterology and hepatology at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City and who was not involved in the study, told ABC News. In addition to direct health issues, MASH is linked to metabolic syndrome -- a group of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess belly fat and unhealthy cholesterol levels. Metabolic syndrome raises the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. MASH falls within a larger category of liver disease called Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), a fatty liver disease which affects about 24% of U.S. adults, according to the NIDDK. MORE: Excessive drinking during the pandemic increased rates of liver disease, transplants "It's a problem because obesity and Type 2 diabetes have been increasing in this country year over year for decades," Brown said. "And so right now, it's estimated that one-third of the population ... has obesity or Type 2 diabetes. So that's over 100 million people." The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the medication resmetirom for treatment of MASH in 2024, but the response observed in both inflammation and scarring was more modest in comparison to what was seen with Wegovy, according to FDA data. Brown said people can lower their risk for fatty liver disease by eating healthy meals, staying active and losing weight. Drinking filtered coffee, without too much sugar or cream, may also help protect the liver, he said. Wegovy addresses the root cause of metabolic syndrome and fatty liver disease by helping regulate blood sugar, reduce body fat and improve insulin sensitivity, the study authors suggested. These changes can ease the strain on the liver and reduce the buildup of fat that leads to inflammation and scarring. "MASH and MASLD are going to be an increasing health burden, and we are going to need drugs that target the liver fibrosis as well as the underlying metabolic parameters," said Brown. "I'll be excited when we have multiple different drugs that work in different ways, so that we can treat all of the patients who had this problem in the future." Dr. Allen Chang is the chief resident of the geriatric medicine subspecialty residency program at Dalhousie University and a member of the ABC News Medical Unit. Active ingredient in weight loss drug Wegovy may help treat type of fatty liver disease: Study originally appeared on
30-04-2025
- Health
Active ingredient in weight loss drug Wegovy may help treat type of fatty liver disease: Study
The active ingredient in the popular weight loss drug Wegovy may help treat a type of fatty liver disease, according to new research. The disease, known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), occurs where fat builds up in the liver, leading to inflammation, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. MASH can lead to scarring and even permanent liver damage. It can also lead to liver failure or cancer -- increasing the risk of transplant or chemotherapy -- and significantly raise the risk of liver-related death. The condition is believed to affect an estimated 1.5% to 6.5% of U.S. adults, according to the NIDDK. In the study, published Wednesday in the New England Journal of Medicine and conducted by researchers in the U.S., U.K., Denmark, France. Italy and Germany, patients received doses of semaglutide, the active ingredient used to treat diabetes in Ozempic and obesity in Wegovy. The patients started on low doses and increased gradually, reaching the full Wegovy dose over 72 weeks. Researchers found that about two-thirds of patients had less liver inflammation, and about one-third had improvement in liver scarring, a more advanced stage of damage. Additionally, one-third of patients improved in both inflammation and scarring. These benefits appeared in people with and without diabetes. Patients also lost an average of 8.5% of their body weight during the 72-week study. "We knew from studies of lifestyle interventions that as little as five to 10% weight loss was associated with substantial improvements in liver fat and MASH," Dr. Robert Brown Jr., chief of gastroenterology and hepatology at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City and who was not involved in the study, told ABC News. In addition to direct health issues, MASH is linked to metabolic syndrome -- a group of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess belly fat and unhealthy cholesterol levels. Metabolic syndrome raises the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. MASH falls within a larger category of liver disease called Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), a fatty liver disease which affects about 24% of U.S. adults, according to the NIDDK. "It's a problem because obesity and Type 2 diabetes have been increasing in this country year over year for decades," Brown said. "And so right now, it's estimated that one-third of the population ... has obesity or Type 2 diabetes. So that's over 100 million people." The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the medication resmetirom for treatment of MASH in 2024, but the response observed in both inflammation and scarring was more modest in comparison to what was seen with Wegovy, according to FDA data. Brown said people can lower their risk for fatty liver disease by eating healthy meals, staying active and losing weight. Drinking filtered coffee, without too much sugar or cream, may also help protect the liver, he said. Wegovy addresses the root cause of metabolic syndrome and fatty liver disease by helping regulate blood sugar, reduce body fat and improve insulin sensitivity, the study authors suggested. These changes can ease the strain on the liver and reduce the buildup of fat that leads to inflammation and scarring. "MASH and MASLD are going to be an increasing health burden, and we are going to need drugs that target the liver fibrosis as well as the underlying metabolic parameters," said Brown. "I'll be excited when we have multiple different drugs that work in different ways, so that we can treat all of the patients who had this problem in the future."
