5 seeds that are best for hormone balance, bone strength, and gut health, according to a top US doc
Munching on seeds may seem like a minor dietary tweak, but it could have a powerful impact on your overall well-being. Seeds are nutritional powerhouses that can boost your health.
Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist with training from Harvard and Stanford, with over 25 years of clinical experience, has suggested incorporating five specific seeds into daily meals to naturally support hormone balance, strengthen bones, and improve gut health. From improved energy to better digestion, these seeds are packed with numerous health benefits. Let's take a look.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are packed with soluble fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. These tiny black seeds are Dr. Sethi's top
pick
for boosting energy.
Starting your day with soaked chia seeds will help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent energy crashes, due to their high fiber content. The omega-3s in it will also support heart health. It will also keep you full, and hence reduce the chances of overeating.
Flax seeds
Flax seeds are good for hormonal balance. They are rich in lignans, which are plant compounds that support estrogen metabolism. Eating flax seeds will also reduce gut inflammation.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
When Knee Pain Hits, Start Eating These Foods, and Feel Your Pain Go Away (It's Genius)
12facts.com
Read More
Undo
They're especially beneficial for women experiencing hormonal fluctuations. Ensure to grind flax seeds for easier digestion and sprinkle them over yogurt or blend them into baked goods.
Pumpkin seeds
Struggling with sleep? Dr. Sethi suggests adding pumpkin seeds to the diet. The high levels of tryptophan and magnesium in pumpkin seeds will aid in melatonin production, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep cycles. A handful of pumpkin seeds in the evening can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Sesame seeds
Dr. Sethi has emphasized the role of sesame seeds in supporting bone health. These tiny seeds are packed with calcium, zinc, and sesamin, which improve bone density and strength. As we age, bone health tends to decline, and sesame seeds are an excellent option for those looking to maintain healthy bones.
Supreme Court Pushes Central Govt to Finalise FOPL: What It Means & Why It Matters? | Explained
Fennel seeds
If you are struggling with digestive issues such as bloating or poor digestion,
fennel seeds
are the answer. Fennel seeds contain anethole, a compound that relaxes gut muscles and reduces bloating.
Fennel seeds are a natural and effective remedy for digestive discomfort. You can chew a teaspoon of fennel seeds after meals, or steep them in tea, to alleviate bloating and promote smoother digestion.
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The recommendations provided are general suggestions and may not be suitable for everyone. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet or health regimen, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or are taking medications.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
‘System has collapsed': 650 private hospitals in Haryana to exit Ayushman Scheme; reimbursements stuck, facilities strained
GURGAON: Indian Medical Association's Haryana unit on Tuesday issued a notice announcing that 650 private hospitals across the state will stop treating patients under the Centre's Ayushman Bharat scheme from Aug 7 if reimbursements amounting to Rs 500 crore aren't cleared by then. Officials of IMA (Haryana), which had issued a similar warning in Jan earlier this year, said the state's administration of the scheme was in a state of "chronic breakdown". Most private hospitals have only gotten 10-15% of their billed amounts in reimbursements since March, forcing them to dip into their own reserves or turn patients away, they said. "The situation is worse than before. Hospitals cannot continue offering free treatment under the scheme without timely reimbursements. We're now at a point where running the system is financially impossible," said Dr Mahavir Jain, president of IMA (Haryana). You Can Also Check: Gurgaon AQI | Weather in Gurgaon | Bank Holidays in Gurgaon | Public Holidays in Gurgaon According to Haryana govt data, there are 1,300 hospitals, including 650 private ones and 60 in Gurgaon, empanelled under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Around 1.8 crore people in the state are registered under the health insurance scheme, which was launched by the central govt in 2018 to provide free medical facilities and treatments up to Rs 5 lakh a year. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Up to 70% off | Shop Sale Libas Undo Ayushman Bharat, which covers anything between routine tests to surgeries, can be availed by families with annual income of less than Rs 2.5 lakh, the elderly, and others. Hospitals empanelled under the scheme provide free-of-charge treatment to registered patients and later raise reimbursement requests from the govt on an online portal. These reimbursements are reviewed and cleared by a state agency, after which payments are disbursed. "Govt promised us that dues would be cleared soon after our meeting with the chief minister earlier this year. But the delays have continued, and many hospitals are now getting reimbursement amounts with arbitrary deductions and without any explanations," said Dr Dhirendar K Soni, secretary of IMA-Haryana. After the Jan ultimatum, govt released the reimbursements and services weren't disrupted. Joint CEO for Ayushman Bharat scheme in Haryana, Ankita Adhikari, didn't respond to repeated requests for comment till Tuesday evening. In Gurgaon, 60 private hospitals are part of the scheme, among them Park Hospital, Centre for Sight (Gurgaon), Pushpanjali hospital, Muskaan Dentals Kamla Hospital, and others. "We will stop new admissions under Ayushman Bharat from Aug 7. Emergency services will continue, but planned procedures will be on hold," said a doctor from a private hospital in the city. Beneficiaries of the scheme said suspension of services by hospitals will affect them the most. Kamlesh Singh, a 41-year-old driver in the city, told TOI he needs an ear surgery to treat the damage caused by an infection. "This scheme saved my life during Covid-19 pandemic, but now I am not sure if I'll get treatment when I need it," he said.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
How much vegetable intake is needed daily? Top functional medicine doctor weighs in
Ever since the beginning, people might have advised you to eat your vegetables and greens. Vegetables and leafy greens are key to physical and mental health. The fiber content in the vegetables improves gut health, and while the nutrients present in them promote heart and brain health, among others. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now But how much vegetables should you eat to get these benefits? What should be the daily intake when it comes to vegetables? Dr. Shirley Koeh, a functional medicine doctor based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has shared insights on this. From the daily vegetable intake to portion sizing, the doctor shares valuable information on vegetables. Let's take a look. Daily intake of vegetables Though should be a crucial part of our daily diet, most people fall short. For most people, their meal is largely meat-based, and carbs, especially in Western countries. Children are more likely to eat fewer vegetables than they require. Dr. Koeh agrees the same and adds, 'How much vegetables do you need every day? Most people are not even close, especially your kids.' But, in order to get optimal health benefits, it is crucial that your diet has enough veggies. But what should be an ideal portion? According to the NHS, adults should have at least 5 portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day. An adult portion of fruit or vegetables is 80g. Dr. Koeh further breaks down this and suggests, 'Use your fist to measure your portion size that matches what your body needs. Taking cooked , you'll need roughly about 4 to 5 fistfuls per day.' She emphasizes that the portion sizes may vary if you are opting for raw vegetables. 'If it's raw veggies, you'll need up to 10 fistfuls per day. This is because raw vegetables will shrink when cooked, so you will need to double the amount,' she adds. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Supreme Court Pushes Central Govt to Finalise FOPL: What It Means & Why It Matters? | Explained The recommendation for children is also similar. They should aim to eat at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables every day. The exact amount, however, could vary depending on the child's age, body size, and levels of physical activity. Why veggies are important Dr. Koeh also stressed the importance of incorporating vegetables into the daily diet. 'Vegetables aren't just healthy, but they provide fiber, which is the food for your gut bacteria. It also stabilizes your blood sugar and your cholesterol. And most importantly, it supports your immune function,' she said. While eating veggies, also ensure to incorporate a variety of them. The more colourful the plate, the healthier.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Detox teas to juice cleanses for the liver: Do they really work? Leading US doctor explains
Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a liver specialist, debunks the detox industry, calling its products ineffective and potentially harmful. He emphasizes that the liver naturally detoxifies and doesn't require special products. Instead, he recommends hydration, black coffee, cruciferous vegetables, and avoiding processed foods and alcohol to support liver health, advocating for lifestyle changes over gimmicks. Detox methods are quite the star in the wellness industry. Most of these 'miraculous' juices, teas, and other herbal products are largely focused on detoxification. They claim to flush toxins out of the body and improve health. Millions of people worldwide are spending their money on detoxification products in the hope of achieving better health. No wonder the detox industry is booming. But are these detox products really worth it? Do they actually work? Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist and liver specialist, with over 25 years of clinical experience, has shared some interesting facts about the 'detox industry'. Let's take a look. The detox industry is not what you think it is Dr. Sethi, who is a hepatologist and has seen 1000s of liver patients, says the detox industry preys on fear. The juice cleanses, detox teas, and the $200 'flush kits' are all a lie! 'As a liver specialist, let me set the record straight. Your body isn't broken. It doesn't need a detox. It needs fewer gimmicks,' he said, in a post shared on Instagram. The doctor also emphasized that the liver is detoxifying 24/7, and you don't require any powders, potions, or trendy routines to do that. 'Most 'detox' fads? Just expensive distractions. Some can even do more harm than good,' the doctor said. What really helps the liver Instead of jumping on the bandwagon of buying trendy products to detox, Dr. Sethi has suggested making some tweaks in the diet to support your body's natural detox system. Hydration is crucial: Want to know if you are hydrating it right? The hint is in the urine. Pale yellow urine means your kidneys and liver are doing their job. 'Save your money, water works just fine,' the doctor said. Black coffee: This beverage is linked to protecting the liver. 'Multiple studies show it protects your liver and lowers the risk of liver disease . Just skip the sugar-laden versions,' he said. Cruciferous vegetables: Adding vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and. Brussels sprouts can improve liver function. 'They activate liver enzymes that help break down real toxins,' the doctor explained. Reduce the overload: The real threat to your liver isn't a lack of detox products; it's lifestyle factors, including the diet. Dr. Sethi suggests avoiding ultra-processed foods and alcohol, which stresses the liver. Instead, opt for whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to lighten the load. Diljit Dosanjh's Diet Diaries: Neem, Dalia & Desi Sass 'Your liver doesn't need a detox. It needs support, not gimmicks,' the liver specialist emphasized.
