
The Fittest Doc reveals 5 daily habits to save your heart: No cost, just results
2. Catch the Morning Sunlight
Live Events
3. Ditch Plastic Food Containers
4. Forget Motivation, Focus on Micro-Habits
5. Move More, Sit Less
(You can now subscribe to our
(You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel
Think protecting your heart means strict diets and hours at the gym? Think again. According to Dr Nicholas Nwabueze, a US-based physician better known as The Fittest Doc, heart health doesn't need to be complicated. In fact, just five minutes a day can make a big difference, if you know what to focus on.Here are five small daily habits he swears by, and they're backed by science too.Instead of sinking into the sofa after lunch or dinner, walk for 5–10 minutes. That simple step can help control blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation, two things that directly impact heart health.Even a 2-minute stroll after a meal helps your muscles absorb glucose from the bloodstream, keeping energy levels stable and your heart protected. It's not about burning calories, it's about keeping your system steady.No, this isn't just about getting your daily dose of vitamin D. Morning sunlight helps regulate your body clock, which in turn improves your sleep quality, something deeply linked to heart health.Exposing your skin to sunlight in the first hour of waking resets your circadian rhythm, reduces stress hormones, and lowers the risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks. Think of it as a natural reset button for your heart every morning.Still heating your food in plastic containers? Dr Nwabueze says stop now. Many plastics release harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates when heated, which mess with hormones and raise your heart disease risk.Swap plastic for glass or stainless steel, especially when storing or microwaving food. It's a small switch that protects your heart and your hormones.Waiting to feel motivated to start that health routine? Don't. According to Dr Nwabueze, it's the tiny actions we take daily, not big resolutions, that build real heart health.Try standing while taking phone calls, prepping meals once a week, or choosing the stairs over the lift. Small, steady habits add up, and over time, they become heart-saving rituals.Yes, even if you exercise regularly, sitting too long can still harm your heart. Studies show that people who sit more than 10 hours a day have a 34% higher risk of heart disease, even if they hit the gym later.The solution? Stand up and move every 30 minutes. Just 2–3 minutes of walking, stretching, or pacing is enough to improve circulation and lower your heart risk.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


India Today
2 hours ago
- India Today
The new space odyssey
When Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla floated into the International Space Station (ISS) from the Crew Dragon capsule that had docked with it on June 26, he wasn't feeling too good. Despite being a test pilot in the Indian Air Force, like most astronauts on their maiden flight into orbit, Shukla admitted that his head felt heavy and he was slightly disoriented. That's because he was still adjusting to the near-zero gravity conditions he endured during the 28-hour space flight that brought him and his three compatriots to the ISS, which orbits the earth at a height of 400 km. Dr Brigitte Godard, a former spaceflight surgeon at the Cologne-based European Astronaut Centre who was in Delhi recently, describes the effect this way: 'Despite the lack of gravity, the heart continues to pump at the same rate as it does on earth and blood tends to rush to the head, and the face and tongue swell up. All these are symptoms of motion sickness. The body takes anything between 24 and 36 hours to adjust to zero gravity.'


Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
What every pool owner in Dubai must know: New rules, safety standards, legal duties and more
Strict pool safety regulations aim to protect children from drowning in UAE's private villa communities/ Image: Pexels As more villa communities expand across the UAE and private pools become increasingly popular, a growing public safety concern has emerged especially the rising number of drowning incidents involving children under five. Health authorities and civic officials are now urging residents to take stricter precautions and adhere to comprehensive safety regulations introduced by Dubai Municipality. A Troubling Pattern: Tragedies Prompt Renewed Focus on Pool Safety Recent months have witnessed several tragic drowning cases that have cast a spotlight on the dangers associated with private pools, even when water bodies seem small or harmless. On April 5, six-year-old Ayanvit Chhaparwal, a finalist on UAE's Got Talent, died in Abu Dhabi after falling into a swimming pool and suffering a head injury. Two month later, on June 27, a 15-year-old Sudanese boy drowned while swimming with friends at the UAE University Olympic Pool in Al Ain. In Dubai, an Indian family is now facing over Dh100,000 (approximately US $27,230) in medical bills after their son, Ali, nearly drowned in a community pool. The accident happened just days after the family moved to the UAE in search of a better life. Similarly, on April 4, a two-year-old child tragically lost his life after drowning in a bucket of water at his family home in Ras Al Khaimah's Sidrouh neighbourhood, a harrowing reminder that even minimal amounts of water can be fatal. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Aparat de sudură cu laser portabil 2024 ultimul model Significant Află mai multe Undo Officials from Dubai's Health and Safety Department, which investigates such incidents, revealed that most local drowning cases involve unsupervised children, underscoring the critical role of adult supervision. According to the World Health Organisation, drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental deaths globally, a trend that's mirrored across the UAE. Dubai Municipality's Regulations: What Pool Owners Must Do To mitigate risk and ensure residential pools are safe for all users, particularly children, Dubai Municipality has issued comprehensive safety regulations that apply to all private pools in residential villas. These rules cover any water feature deeper than 300mm, including hot tubs, inflatable pools, and prefabricated spa pools. Here are the key responsibilities and requirements as laid out by the authorities: 1. Defined Roles and Responsibilities: Pool Owners: Pool owners are required to register their pools with Dubai Municipality before construction or use. They must ensure that the pool meets all design, safety, and hygiene standards set by the authorities. Additionally, owners are responsible for maintaining the pool's structural integrity and ensuring it operates safely through regular upkeep. Contractors and Manufacturers: Contractors and manufacturers have the responsibility to build pools according to established safety codes. They must use non-hazardous materials to guarantee safety and provide proper safety labels to inform users of potential risks. Compliance with these standards is crucial for preventing accidents. Residents and Pool Users: Residents and users of pools must supervise children at all times to prevent drowning and other accidents. They should follow strict hygiene protocols to maintain water quality and cleanliness. Moreover, securing pools with enclosures, safety covers, or nets when not in use is essential to protect young children and pets from accidental falls. 2. Mandatory Registration and Approval All private pools must be registered with Dubai Municipality before construction begins. Any modifications, such as adding slides or diving boards, also require prior municipal approval. 3. Physical Safety Measures Safety around private pools begins with proper fencing and barriers. All fences must be at least 1.2 metres high, designed to be child-resistant, climb-proof, and free of gaps that children could squeeze through. Additionally, pool covers and safety nets are strongly recommended, especially in homes with young children. These covers must meet the ASTM F1346-91 international safety standards and be sturdy enough to support the weight of two adults and one child in case of emergency. It is also important to keep rescue tools like pool brushes or leaf scoops nearby, ensuring quick access if needed. 4. Controlled Access and Entry Points Access to the pool must be carefully controlled to prevent accidental entry by children. Gates and entrances should open outward, be self-closing and self-latching, with locks installed at least 1.5 metres above ground to keep them out of children's reach. The use of garage doors or automated perimeter gates for pool access is strictly prohibited to avoid unsupervised entry. Windows overlooking pools require fixed security screens or limiters that prevent openings wider than 100mm. Balconies close to pool areas must also have child-proof barriers installed for added safety. 5. Hygiene and Emergency Preparedness Maintaining clean, healthy pool water is essential. Owners must conduct daily testing of water for pH levels, chlorine, and temperature, with more thorough bi-weekly checks for additional parameters. Furthermore, microbiological testing is mandatory every two months to ensure compliance with health standards. For emergencies, CPR instructions must be clearly displayed near the pool, alongside important contact numbers for ambulance, police, and civil defence services. A well-stocked first aid kit and rescue equipment, such as poles or hooks, should always be within easy reach to respond promptly in case of an accident. Vigilance First: Authorities Emphasise Supervision Above All While Dubai Municipality's regulations set a robust safety framework, the most critical element remains active adult supervision, officials say. 'Safety begins at home,' the municipality stresses. Teaching children how to swim and staying vigilant whenever they are near water are the most effective ways to prevent tragedy. For further details on compliance or to register a pool, residents are encouraged to contact the Health and Safety Department of Dubai Municipality via: Hotline: 800900 Email: Safety@


Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
How much can daily spoonful of jamun seed powder help control diabetes? Here's what science and Ayurveda say
Jamun, also known as Indian blackberry, is a deep purple fruit packed with health benefits and vibrant flavor. From Ayurveda to medical science, they are proven to help regulate blood sugar levels and aid in detoxification. But did you know that the seeds of this seasonal fruit are equally nourishing? This piece of information explores the benefits of consuming jamun seeds and the right way to consume them. Scroll down to read the details. Why jamun seed powder works Live Events How it helps people with diabetes How to take jamun seed powder With warm water: A traditional method, usually taken before meals. Sprinkled on food: Mix into smoothies, salads or yoghurt. In capsules: Handy for those who dislike the bitter taste. Before meals: Helps manage blood sugar rise after eating. On an empty stomach (optional): Some Ayurvedic practitioners believe this boosts its digestive benefits. Side effects and warnings Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia): Risk increases if taken with insulin or other diabetic drugs. Constipation: A few people may experience digestion-related discomfort. Allergic reactions: Rare but possible in some individuals. Drug interactions: It may interfere with the effect of diabetes medicines. What you may notice over time Improved blood sugar levels Reduced sugar cravings Better focus and energy Lower HbA1c levels (a marker of long-term sugar control) Potential support to insulin-producing cells Improved organ function (especially pancreas, liver and kidneys) Should you add jamun seed powder to your routine? (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel With diabetes affecting millions across the globe, many are turning to time-tested natural solutions to support their health alongside prescribed treatments. One such remedy rooted in Ayurvedic tradition is jamun seed powder , made from the seeds of the Indian blackberry (Syzygium cumini). Known for its role in blood sugar regulation, this humble seed is now gaining popularity in the modern wellness explore why this powder is worth considering if you're looking to better manage diabetes the natural way, with proper medical guidance, of centuries, Ayurvedic practitioners have used jamun seed powder to manage digestive issues and blood sugar. Its strength lies in two powerful plant compounds:Jamboline: Helps slow down the transformation of starch into sugar in the digestive tract, preventing blood sugar spikes after Supports insulin function by improving the body's sensitivity to it and encouraging its natural production by the addition, jamun seed powder offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, protecting vital organs like the liver and kidneys, organs often under stress in long-term of the biggest advantages is its ability to reduce insulin resistance. This means the body can process glucose more effectively, helping bring blood sugar under slowing down how carbohydrates are broken down, jamun seed powder helps prevent the sudden sugar spikes that usually follow a studies show jamun seed compounds may help regenerate beta cells — the cells in the pancreas responsible for making rich antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, shielding key organs often damaged by high blood sugar better metabolic control, regular use may lower the chances of developing complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision general recommended dose is 1 to 2 teaspoons daily, but you should always consult a doctor before adding it to your routine, especially if you're on diabetes to consume it:Best time to consume:Jamun seed powder is generally safe, but certain side effects can appear, especially if mixed with medication:Note: Pregnant or breastfeeding women and those with kidney issues should avoid it without consulting a healthcare 2–4 weeks:In 8–12 weeks:Jamun seed powder is a widely available, affordable and traditional supplement that can complement diabetes care when used correctly. However, it should never replace prescribed medicine. Instead, it can be part of a broader health approach, including a healthy diet, regular activity, and you're considering it, speak to your doctor first. When used wisely, this Ayurvedic superfood might offer your body just the extra support it 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.