You must have heard that probiotics are extremely beneficial for the health of your gut. But many people aren’t familiar with prebiotics. Doctors say that you need abundant amounts of both probiotics and prebiotics in your diet to stay healthy. But what are they and why exactly do you need them?
Probiotics are harmless bacteria and yeast. When people hear the words ‘bacteria’ and ‘yeast’, they immediately associate them with diseases. But there are some species of these that do a world of good to your health. Probiotics are that kind of organism. They are especially beneficial for your digestive system.
From what I have observed, yoghurt is a good source of probiotics, that are beneficial bacteria that can support your gut health. When yogurt is made, these bacteria ferment the milk, converting lactose into lactic acid.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
Based on what I have seen, prebiotics are special types of carbohydrates found in various fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, oatmeal, bananas, and greens, among others. Including foods rich in prebiotics in our diet can support a healthy gut and improve overall digestive health.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibres such as garlic and onions. They are food for probiotics and good bacteria in your stomach.
Probiotics and prebiotics might sound similar but they are entirely different. However, both of them are reliant on each other. Probiotics will not survive without the food that prebiotics offer. And prebiotics is not worth anything if there aren’t many probiotics in your gut.
That is why you need both in your diet.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Also Read: Benefits of Kombucha: A Detailed Examination Based on Research
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
A heart attack can leave you with a traumatic experience along with strong mixed feelings of denial, anger, fear, anxiety or depression. These are normal reactions that can affect not only you but your family and co-workers too. This might not only make you concerned about your future but also raise questions about your present health condition – be it the lifestyle changes you would have to make or a new diet you would have to follow. You and your family would probably have a lot of questions.
Read More: Healthy diet for heart
All you need to do at this time is to be positive. It takes time to tackle depression after an attack, so be strong and talk to your family members and healthcare provider. Consider your mental health as a part of your overall treatment plan. Always control your stress levels.
Say ‘NO’ to Smoking. One of the major risk factors for heart disease is smoking. Smoking can elevate your chances of having heart disease and worsen your condition. It is very important to take care of your body, especially after an attack. If you are a smoker, it is advisable to quit smoking as it would reduce the risk of another heart attack by 50%.
Also Read: First Aid for Heart Attack
Also Read: Know The Difference Between Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest
Your heart attack is a warning that your present lifestyle must be modified to survive. Begin by starting a makeover journey for your heart by making your physical and mental health your priority.
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
References
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/life-after-a-heart-attack
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/salt-reduction
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure/shaking-the-salt-habit-to-lower-high-blood-pressure
Healthy Valentine’s Day
”Your flaws are perfect for the heart that’s meant to love you”- but it is equally important to keep that heart healthy to spend your life together. The month of February marks the start of the celebration for Valentine’s Day. We look for unique ways to spend our time with our loved ones. This Year why not consider ”Valentine’s- the healthy way!”. Love comes in various forms and every kind of it wishes only the best for you. To love someone starts with wishing them great health and if you want to make this Valentine’s Day special for that one person who has not only brought love in your life but also a plethora of happiness but confused about how to go about it, then don’t fret. Here are a few suggestions you can consider:
How to Keep Your Heart Healthy This Valentine’s Day
A non-traditional and healthy gift and plan can show that you truly care and that you have put thought into your partner’s enjoyment, health and happiness. You don’t even have to spend a huge amount of money. Imagine how thrilled they’ll be when you pack them their favorite lunch with a heartfelt note or cook food together. That joy is certainly irreplaceable.
Have questions about Diabetes? Click here to ask Anya!
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This is the name used to describe a number of conditions including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Emphysema affects the air sacs in your lungs (alveoli), and chronic bronchitis affects your airways (bronchi). COPD is a condition where the airways become inflamed and the air sacs in your lungs are damaged. This causes your airways to become narrower, which makes it harder to breathe in and out. Therefore, people with COPD have breathing difficulties, and this can affect many aspects of your day-to-day life. Unfortunately, there is no cure for COPD, but there are lots of treatments available to help you to manage your condition, improve your symptoms and live an active life.
Unfortunately, you may not notice symptoms or tell-tale signs of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) until it is in the advanced stages. However, you need to pay attention to signs such as:
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should consult your doctor.
To treat COPD, just relying on treatment won’t work. There are lifestyle changes you need to adhere to as well. They are:
If you are addicted to smoking, then the single most important treatment for COPD is to quit it. Giving up will stop the ongoing damage to your airways caused by cigarette smoke. It is the most important treatment to reduce the chance of your condition becoming worse.
The main treatment of COPD involves inhalers which include a long or short-acting bronchodilator. If you experience sudden episodes of breathlessness or chest tightness your doctor might prescribe a short-acting bronchodilator inhaler. This relaxes the muscles in your airways to keep them as open as possible and relieves breathlessness. If your symptoms occur every day, you will be given a long-acting bronchodilator inhaler. This works in the same way as a short-acting inhaler, but the effects of the medication last for at least 12 hours. You may have to take inhaler medications daily for months as advised by the doctor which will help to keep your disease under control. Always adhere to the medication prescribed by your Doctor.
When you have a chronic breathing disease, it is important to eat well to prevent infections and keep your lungs healthy. It is also essential to make sure you are the correct weight.
When you have a lung condition, it is important to be as active as you can and to exercise safely. In some areas, you can attend pulmonary rehabilitation – a programme of exercise that helps with breathlessness by improving your muscle strength and lung fitness. This makes it easier for you to carry out everyday activities.
Make sure you get vaccinations against flu and pneumonia to avoid getting infections in winter.
If the level of oxygen in your blood is too low when you are resting, or if the level drops when you are active, you might need oxygen treatment. This is used to increase the amount of oxygen that flows into your lungs and bloodstream.
If an infection is making your breathing too difficult, you might need the support of a breathing machine. This is usually provided in the hospital. It can also be given at home if your condition is very severe. It also takes some of the efforts out of breathing because your chest muscles don’t have to work as hard, so it helps to ease the feeling of breathlessness.
If you are struggling emotionally, talking to your family or a health care professional can help. It is very important to stay active and sociable and to learn more about COPD.
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
A study of more than 5000 adults with Diabetes highlighted the importance of family, friends, and colleagues in improving well-being and self-management. Family members are often asked to share the responsibility for disease management. They can provide many forms of support, such as instrumental support in driving patients to appointments or helping to inject insulin and social and emotional support in helping patients cope with their disease.
Through their communication and attitudes, family members often have a significant impact on a patient’s psychological well-being, the decision to follow recommendations for medical treatment, and the ability to initiate and maintain changes in diet and exercise.
Family members can feel distressed by their loved one’s diabetes due to limited knowledge about diabetes or not knowing how to support their loved one.
The family may also have misconceptions, such as believing that the patient knows more about diabetes than the patient actually reports or not understanding their loved one’s needs in diabetes management.
A diabetes caregiver should be made aware of the signs to identify any complications of eye, foot or kidney problems at an early stage and report to the physician. Paying attention to even loss of sensations or slippers slipping off the foot might be helpful to report at follow-ups.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Read More About: Tips for Diabetes Management
Knowledge about the disease, strategies to alter family routines, and optimal ways to cope with the emotional aspects of the disease are some of the aspects of diabetes self-management that family members need.
Educating family members about diabetes-care needs can help ease this strain by explaining why these changes are necessary, how these changes can best be implemented, and where to find additional information, such as healthy recipes or exercise routines.
Everyday care for diabetic patients includes “Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, red spots, and swelling. Brush your teeth and floss every day to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy. Stop smoking, Keep track of your blood sugar.”
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
The following 4 cornerstones of care are really important to pay attention to when taking care of a family member with Diabetes:
Over time, diabetes can damage blood vessels in the heart, eyes, kidneys and nerves. People with diabetes have a higher risk of health problems including heart attack, stroke and kidney failure.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
If you have a child with diabetes, gradually teach him or her how to manage the condition: Although parents should always have a role in monitoring their child’s diabetes, as they get older, teens can take an increasing role in blood sugar monitoring and meal planning. Read more about symptoms of diabetes in children
Administering or tracking medications, encouraging changes to diet and activity levels, and ensuring regular monitoring as directed by a healthcare provider especially identifying any ulcers that don’t heal and reporting any changes in vision.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Read More About 10 Home Remedies for Diabetes
Need more information on diabetes and its related diseases? Ask Anya! Chat with Anya Bot here via Facebook and get more information on diabetes management.
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
References
Knowing and understanding the disease generally prepares one to manage things better. When your near one is diagnosed with cancer, initially it may be a denial phase for both of you, followed by acceptance. Accepting the facts is essential so that you can work towards taking care of the patient and his or her treatment.
As a cancer caregiver, it will be helpful for you to understand the disease condition and more importantly the stage at which the disease was diagnosed, the various tests and investigations that are advised by the doctor. This is important because the stage of the disease determines the kind of treatment the doctor would recommend. Based on the prescribed treatment, hospital stay, number of visits, side-effects, expenses, etc. will be decided. At times, surgery may be recommended followed by chemotherapy or radiation or vice versa.
Chemotherapy includes administration of various medicines to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. Radiation also helps to kill the cancer cells. If either of these is given before surgery, its objective is to reduce the size of the tumor to make it operable. If given after surgery, it aims to eliminate residual cancer cells, if any. Some cancers may need multiple surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation cycles.
Also, before each chemotherapy cycle, various laboratory investigations (diagnostic tests) may be required. This is important so that the doctor can decide whether the patient can tolerate the next chemotherapy cycle. If the results are unfavorable, the cycle may be postponed, and the patient may be kept under observation.
Sometimes the patient may have to be managed at the hospital after the treatment cycle is administered due to side effects of the anticancer medicines or radiation. Radiation or chemotherapy weakens the patient badly, and they need full-time care as well as motivation to carry on. As a cancer caregiver, it is vital to never lose hope even in sad moments.
Giving care and support during this time can be a challenge. Many caregivers put their own needs and feelings aside to focus on the person with cancer. This can be hard to maintain for a long time, and it’s not good for your health. The stress can have both physical and psychological effects. If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of others.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Sometimes more than the diseased, you may feel the brunt of the treatment. Also, you may think that the initial cycles are taking a toll on the patient’s health. Do not get disappointed or lose hope. Do not hold the treatment. Your doctor is the expert who would give appropriate advice.
As a cancer caregiver, this what you need to remember:
Also Read: Exploring the Link: What Type of Cancer Causes Low Hemoglobin Levels?
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
Extreme diets are dangerous. The current societal environment is marked with a different perception of beauty, which can largely be attributed to advertisements and the media portraying an ”ideal” body type, thereby forcing vulnerable youngsters to fit into a ‘society approved mould.
Losing weight and attaining an ideal body type features prominently on most people’s to-do list, then be it a New Year’s resolution, planning a big event or holidays. A healthy weight is crucial for longevity, but unfortunately, the diet industry thrives on people’s desire to lose weight as quickly as they can – without putting in the work.
What we fail to realize is that there aren’t any shortcuts and that healthy weight loss can only be achieved through a balanced diet and exercise regime.
In the quest to lose weight quickly and easily, most people decide to go on an extreme diet. Extreme dieting involves reducing the calorie intake to lose a lot of weight in a short period, essentially pushing the body beyond its capabilities. As a general guide, men need around 2500 calories a day, and women need about 2000 calories a day depending on their age, and activity level. People suffering from obesity may be recommended a calorie-controlled diet to get to a healthy weight, but this would be under a doctor’s approval, and supervision and many dieticians only recommend losing one or two pounds a week. While extreme dieting may have the desired effect, there are health dangers associated with such a dangerous lack of calories. If you are considering an extreme diet, you should ensure that you have a full understanding of the health risks and side effects of cutting calories and restricting your food choices.
In my experience and research, I advise against extreme dieting, especially for young individuals. In a study, it was found that self-led extreme dieting actually led to more weight gain over time. Instead, focus on adopting balanced and healthy eating habits to maintain a healthy weight in the long term.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Extreme diets yield extreme results – but not always in the way you would like. They are more likely to make you feel sluggish, moody, nauseous and achy. Plus, in the long term, they can set you up for metabolism problems, rebound weight gain and life-threatening medical conditions. The following is a breakdown of the changes that happen in your body when you boycott carbs, drink every meal or deprive your body of the calories it needs.
Dehydration
The immediate ”success” on a crash diet is just an illusion, as any pounds which are lost, are likely come from water rather than fat. When on a restricted-calorie or carb intake, the first source of energy the body burns, long before fat – is glycogen which is a form of carbohydrate stored in the liver and muscles and attached to every gram is water. Symptoms of dehydration include a headache, fatigue, and dizziness.
Changes in Blood Sugar Levels
Since extreme diets are associated with yo-yoing or gaining back all of the weight that was lost on a diet, they contribute to insulin resistance and potentially Type 2 diabetes, as per a 2013 Diabetes study.
Muscles Break Down
Malnutrition and extreme diets are deeply connected. Malnutrition can lead to atrophy of muscles throughout the body, leading to muscles wasting. If weight loss is extremely fast, the muscles of the heart can atrophy. Extreme low-calorie liquid diets, for instance, have been linked to ventricular arrhythmias and death. A weakened heart is a serious problem that could cause a threat to life
Metabolism Slows
When one is following extreme diets, the body experiences a calorie deficit and energy levels drop, metabolism will naturally slow to conserve energy. This can stall weight loss and lead to the loss of muscle tone.
Malnutrition Begins
In the case of extreme diets, severe diet restriction leads to many nutrient deficiencies such as carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins (especially vitamin A, D, E, & K) and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, sodium, etc. These are essential food groups, and their absence in the diet can be the cause of numerous deficiency diseases. Abruptly resuming a regular diet can cause the phosphorus, magnesium and potassium levels to drop and lead to heart failure.
Brain Suffers
According to research published in The Journal of Neuroscience, extreme diets or any crash diet, even if it contains an adequate supply of carbohydrates, increases the brain’s levels of the stress hormone corticosterone, making the brain more susceptible to stress, increasing the risk of depression and predisposing you to future binge-eating behaviours.
Based on what I’ve seen in adults, chronic dieting can lead to various symptoms such as constantly thinking about food, feeling easily distracted and irritable, experiencing fatigue, and having a tendency to overeat or even binge eat. The mechanism behind this is that restrictive dieting can put the body in a state of deprivation, leading to increased cravings and a heightened focus on food.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
The best way to lose weight and sustain weight loss is to make a lifestyle change in your eating and exercising habits.
Eating healthy food, including protein and carbohydrates as well as lots of fruit and vegetables, while limiting saturated fat and sugar intake is the best ‘diet’ to lose weight safely. A healthy diet also needs to be subsidized with physical activity to reach health goals.
If you are concerned about your weight or eating habits or need advice on how to safely diet and lose weight, get in touch with a doctor.
Also Read: Pegan Diet: A Comprehensive Guide on Its Advantages and Challenges
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Iron deficiency in our body means low levels of iron in our body. This deficiency will lead to a reduced number of specific cells that carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. This implies that inadequate iron would lead to insufficient oxygen for the body. Therefore, one may continuously feel tired even without physical exertion along with shortness of breath.
Initially, with mild iron deficiency one may not find significant symptoms, however, as the deficiency progresses one may note symptoms like loss of appetite, weakness, pale skin, headache, dizziness, cold hands and feet, sore tongue, easily breaking nails, craving for strange things like ice, dirt, starch. If you notice any of these symptoms without a reasonable cause, you should consult your doctor for medical advice.
You may notice pale skin and cold hands and feet. Iron-deficiency anemia can also cause you to feel dizzy or lightheaded. Occasionally, it can cause chest pain, a fast heartbeat and shortness of breath. Iron deficiency can cause you to have unusual cravings for non-food items such as ice, dirt or paper.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Read More: Signs & Symptoms of Anaemia
Iron deficiency is more common but not necessarily limited to women, premature children, vegetarians if the consumed diet does not compensate for the same and people who donate blood more frequently.
There are several reasons why iron deficiency may occur like loss of blood, pregnancy, iron-deficient diet or specific disease conditions of the digestive system which do not allow adequate absorption of iron from the food. Hence, it is essential that one seeks medical advice to obtain an appropriate diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
Iron deficiency may be prevented by consuming more iron-rich foods like dried raisins, chicken, fish, beans, green leafy vegetables and many more. Vitamin C helps in better absorption of iron from food. So include citrus fruits like oranges, muskmelon, watermelon, kiwi, broccoli, tomatoes in your diet.
Also Read: How to Increase Iron Levels Quickly: Effective Strategies Backed by Research
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute fairly common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
We as humans always are living in a dynamic atmosphere. Our diet, weather, routines, and a multitude of other factors change on a regular basis. Likewise, the microbial content of even an otherwise healthy person’s gut can be affected by changes in the environment or season. This is more so in monsoon when the dampness in the weather hugely increases the disease-causing microbes.
Paradoxically, the gut enzymes activity is lesser in the wet season than in summers, thus affecting the process of digestion. This may lead to indigestion and cause sluggishness.
Also Read: Benefits of Colostrum: A Deep-Dive Into its Health-Boosting Properties
It is therefore essential to pay heed to what we eat.
Children are vulnerable in the monsoons and often fall prey to infections and viruses. Here are simple tips to keep your children healthy this season! Monsoons also wreak havoc on one’s skin, but you can avoid them. Learn how here. If you have waded through floodwater, learn how to prevent leptospirosis.
Happy and healthy monsoon!
Also Read: What Is Leaky Gut: Exploring the Facts and Debunking the Myths
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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