Iron deficiency and Indian women, the silent crisis?
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India Today
32 minutes ago
- India Today
Dr Anoop Misra on why Indian mangoes are safe and a healthy option for diabetics
For decades, mangoes have been labelled off-limits for people with diabetes. Their natural sweetness and juicy richness have made them a beloved fruit, but one that's feared for its supposed impact on blood sugar. Now, two groundbreaking Indian studies are rewriting that diabetologist Dr. Anoop Misra, Chairman at Fortis C-DOC Hospital for Diabetes and Allied Sciences, and co-author of the studies, says that certain varieties of Indian mangoes, when eaten in controlled portions and under supervision, can actually improve blood sugar control and even support weight management in people with type 2 shown the benefits of small doses of mangoes in place of carbohydrates like bread for the first time,' Dr. Anoop Misra tells 'Our data challenges the myth that mangoes are unsafe for diabetics. In fact, they could offer multiple metabolic benefits if included mindfully within a diet.' WHAT THE TRIALS SUGGESTIn collaboration with the National Diabetes, Obesity and Cholesterol Foundation (N-DOC), and supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Dr Misra's team conducted two clinical studies to test the impact of mango consumption on metabolic first study, accepted for publication in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, assessed 95 participants - 45 with type 2 diabetes and 50 without. Participants were given either 250 grams of mango pulp (Safeda, Dasheri or Langda varieties) or an equivalent calorie portion of white bread. Researchers used an Oral Tolerance Test and Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) over three they found was surprising:Mangoes caused an even lower blood sugar response than Mean Amplitude of Glycemic Excursion (MAGE), a key marker for glucose spikes, was lower in diabetic participants after eating mangoes, suggesting more stable blood sugar second study, published in the Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders on August 6, followed 35 adults with type 2 diabetes for eight weeks. Each participant consumed either 250 grams per day (about one small mango) of Safeda or Dasheri mangoes, or the same caloric amount of bread, as part of a controlled diet.'The mango group showed a measurable drop in fasting blood sugar, HbA1c levels, insulin resistance, waist size, and even subcutaneous fat. Even HDL, the good cholesterol, improved," says Dr MANGOES A SMARTER CARB?It's all about what mangoes contain and what they replace.'Mangoes have a low-to-medium glycemic index, around 51. That's much lower than white bread or sugary snacks. They're also high in fibre, vitamins, and plant compounds like polyphenols and carotenoids, which help reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity,' explains Dr while mangoes are sweet, they don't cause the same rapid blood sugar spikes as refined researchers believe mangoes may also help increase satiety, meaning people might eat less ABOUT SUGAR?Aren't mangoes full of sugar?'Yes, mangoes contain natural sugars. But in our trials, participants ate a measured quantity—250 grams per day—as a replacement for a high-GI food like white bread. The results were clearly in favour of mangoes," says Dr Sugandha Kehar, lead author of both studies.'Mangoes are a much-loved fruit and often unfairly maligned. These studies show that, within a well-structured diet, they are not only safe for diabetics—but may be beneficial,' she FINAL WORD: MODERATION AND SUBSTITUTION ARE KEYDr Misra is careful to stress that this is not a licence to binge on mangoes.'One medium-sized mango per day (around 250 grams), as a substitute for other carbohydrate sources, not in addition to them, can be part of a diabetic meal plan. But this must be done under dietary supervision," he don't have to completely eliminate mangoes from your life. These studies suggest that when eaten smartly, Indian mangoes like Safeda and Dasheri can fit into a diabetic diet, and might even bring metabolic a small but powerful step in reconnecting cultural food preferences with modern science.- Ends advertisement
NDTV
2 hours ago
- NDTV
Feeling Dizzy While Fasting? Your Body's Begging For Electrolytes
You may not be aware of the term electrolyte imbalance, but if you fast for festivities like Raksha Bandhan, Navratri or Ramadan, or for fasting diets like intermittent fasting, then you definitely know what it feels like. There might be a slight dizzy feeling; there could be a few cramps in your legs; or, there could be a sense that you are going to throw up even though your stomach is empty. However it shows up, electrolyte imbalance can have long-term negative impacts on your health, and though fasting might seem worth it, going through the symptoms and repercussions of electrolyte imbalance are certainly not. But here's the good part. We're here to give you everything you need to know, from recognizing those sneaky signs of electrolyte imbalance to prepping your own Indian-style fasting fuel at home. We'll cover why potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium matter (they're your electrolyte superheroes), how to catch warning symptoms, and simple prevention strategies using fasting-friendly ingredients already in your kitchen. Think refreshing nimbu paani, soothing chaas, coconut water, and even homemade ORS solutions. It's all about keeping you vibrant, healthy, and in the festive flow, without overcomplicating things with a trip to the emergency room. What's An Electrolyte Imbalance? How Fasting Plays A Part Electrolytes, namely sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, are your body's essential battery or fuel cells. They regulate muscle function, nerve signaling, and fluid balance. When you fast, especially for long hours in India's heat, you lose electrolytes via sweat and limited fluid intake. Without replenishing them, your system can throw you off balance quickly. Electrolyte Imbalance Signs And Symptoms: Watch Out For These When your body is depleted of electrolytes, it automatically sends distress signals. While you might be too busy to take note of these signs, you definitely need to watch out for these because they might help you prevent a full-blown breakdown in terms of your energy levels. So, here are some key signs and symptoms of electrolyte imbalance you should know about: Muscle cramps or weakness: These are clear indications of potassium and magnesium deficiency. Dizziness, confusion, or irregular heartbeat: These signal that your sodium may have dipped. Fatigue, nausea, or low mood: You are dehydrated, lacking electrolytes and your body is clearly calling for help. Prevention: Your Electrolyte Defense Plan Preventing electrolyte imbalance is a better idea than facing it and then choosing to have a long-winding recovery. Here are some easy preventive measures you can take to avoid electrolyte imbalance. Hydrate Smarter This is an easy solution, and you can rely on more than just water. In fact, these electrolyte solutions may help you replenish your electrolytes faster than water. Coconut Water - A natural source of potassium, sodium, and magnesium; far less sugar than commercial sports drinks. Chaas - India's cooling classic, this one is rehydrating, probiotic, and electrolyte-rich. Nimbu Paani - Lemon juice, water, pinch of salt (Himalayan/rock), and a dash of jaggery mean vitamin C and balanced sodium replenishment in one glass. Homemade ORS - Mix 1L water, 1/2tsp salt, 2tbsp sugar (or 6tsp sugar and 1tsp salt as per WHO), and drink slowly. Lemon, Rock Salt And Honey Water - Rich in electrolytes and perfect for those on a fast since sendha namak or rock salt is allowed on fasts. Bananas and nuts can replenish your electrolyte levels quickly Photo Credit: Pexels Eat Electrolyte-Rich Foods During Your Eating Window Hydrating may be the first solution, but your recovery will be incomplete unless you eat some electrolyte-rich foods. Bananas, oranges, spinach, sweet potatoes for potassium. Nuts and seeds, dark leafy greens, which are magnesium-rich powerhouses. Pickles, olives, lightly salted fermented foods for sodium. Go Slow And Simple If you're new to longer fasts, gradually ease in since your body adapts better and keeps electrolytes balanced. Also, tone down intense workouts, and go for yoga or gentle walks instead. When To Consider Supplements Or Medical Help Supplements like magnesium citrate/glycinate or potassium chloride can help, but only under medical guidance, especially if you have health conditions. If symptoms like extreme dizziness, dark urine, palpitations, or confusion show up and don't improve, consider seeking medical attention immediately. Fasting during festivals or for your health isn't about compromising your well-being. Listen to what the mirror and your mood are telling you. Sip smart, eat wisely in your window, and let your body's signals come through uninterrupted. Do this, and you'll breeze through your fast feeling light, vibrant, and ready, but not drained. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
Hans India
2 hours ago
- Hans India
No compromise medical education standards, stresses NMC
Vijayawada: The National Medical Commission (NMC) asserted that there will be no compromise on the quality of medical education in India, specifically regarding Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) seeking permanent registration. According to the NMC, FMGs must strictly adhere to national regulations and guidelines set forth for medical practice in India. This clarification comes in the wake of recent Andhra Pradesh High Court rulings, which allowed certain FMGs to obtain permanent registration despite gaps in their clinical education. In response, the Andhra Pradesh Medical Council (APMC) has filed a review petition, seeking additional time and guidance on implementing the relevant rules. The NMC has advised the APMC on specific procedures to be followed for granting permanent registration to FMGs. Following the AP High Court's directives concerning FMGs who completed their studies abroad, the Andhra Pradesh government has approached the NMC for further clarification. A key point emphasised by the NMC is that clinical training must be conducted offline. Online medical education will not be considered valid for registration purposes. For students whose education was disrupted due to the Covid-19 pandemic or the Russia-Ukraine conflict — resulting in online coursework — the NMC indicated that these FMGs may be required to undertake an additional 1 to 2 years of internship in India, depending on individual circumstances. Many students who pursued medical studies in Ukraine faced significant challenges in completing their education due to the ongoing conflict. In such cases, the NMC has directed that foreign universities must provide detailed certificates confirming the offline completion of clinical training. These certificates must be authenticated by the respective Indian embassies abroad. Referring to the recent AP High Court orders regarding FMGs, the NMC cautioned that relaxing internship requirements based on isolated court rulings could jeopardize the goal of maintaining uniform national standards. The Commission made these statements in the context of two separate orders from the Andhra Pradesh High Court granting permanent registration to FMGs. The APMC, in coordination with the state government, has now filed a review petition to address the NMC's concerns. The NMC reiterated that all FMGs are required to comply with the 2021 FMG Licentiate Regulations and the Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI) guidelines. State medical councils remain responsible for enforcing these standards before granting permanent registration.
