
Yoga day celebrations across the world capture spirit of wellness & unity
The Consulate General of India in New York, in partnership with Times Square Alliance, celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) at the iconic Times Square
Credit: Reuters Photo
In China, thousands of people participated in several yoga events, signifying the growing popularity of the practice in the country.
Credit: PTI Photo
In the UK, hundreds of people gathered at an iconic square on the Strand in London to join in a series of expert-led asanas and breathing techniques
Credit; PTI Photo
The draft UNGA resolution establishing the International Day of Yoga was proposed by India and endorsed by a record 175 member states.
Credit: Reuters Photo
A child lies atop his mother as she takes part in the International Yoga day at Times Square.
People practise yoga in large numbers at Times Square in New York.
Credit: Reuters Photo
This year's theme for the day - Yoga for One Earth, One Health' is rooted in the 'One Earth, One Health' approach
Credit: Reuters Photo
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NDTV
24 minutes ago
- NDTV
How Fibre Has Become The New Protein With Viral Reels And Gut-Health Talk
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Experts are now urging people to focus as much on fibre goals as on protein intake. Fibre Goals Over Protein Goals "For a long time, the focus in health and fitness conversations was on protein for muscle building and weight loss but people are now realising that gut health, digestion, and metabolic health are equally important and fibre plays a huge role in all three. Social media trends and the rise in gut microbiome testing have brought more awareness," says Tanya Khanna, Nutritionist and Yoga Trainer at Alyve Health. Swatee Sandhan, Chief Dietician, Jupiter Hospital, Pune, agrees. She says she has also observed the growing popularity of fibre, especially in urban India, due to knowledge of the establishment of gut health and prevention of chronic diseases. The campaigns on social media and wellness focus on foods rich in fibre, such as millets, and vegetables and this attracts health-motivated millennials, she says. "On the one hand, protein leads through the influence of fitness culture and supplement promotion; on the other hand, the relatively low price of the fibre products and its availability in such Indian staples as dal and ragi drive the rise of fibre," Swatee adds. What Is Causing This Hype The hype around fibre is being fuelled by both research and social media culture. Documentaries and scientific studies linking gut health with mood, immunity, weight, and even skin have pushed fibre into the spotlight. Tanya Khanna explains, "High-fibre is becoming a label claim like high-protein used to be. Trends such as 'fibremaxxing' on TikTok promote higher fibre intake as key to better gut health." Swatee Sandhan also points out that this is not simply a case of fibre replacing protein. "India is experiencing obesity and digestive concerns. It is not about garnering business on substitution of protein but sustainable health. One must include natural fibre sources, reduce processed food, and increase hydration to keep the dependency on supplements minimum," she says. This hype has made fibre quite popular in the dietary market, across the globe, including India. Today you can find various brands selling 'fibre' too -- fibre sachets, supplements, food that are rich in fibre and more. The Indian market is projected to reach USD 889.9 million by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.8% from 2024 to 2030. But What Exactly Is Fibre Dietary fibre is the part of plant-based foods that the human body cannot fully digest (which might sound like a bad thing, but it actually is not). Unlike proteins, fats, or carbohydrates that break down and release energy, fibre passes through the digestive system largely intact. There are two main types of fibre: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre, found in foods such as oats, apples, beans, and lentils, dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance that helps lower cholesterol and stabilise blood sugar. Insoluble fibre, present in whole grains, nuts, and many vegetables, adds bulk to stool and keeps bowel movements regular. Both types are essential for good health, and most plant foods provide a mix of the two. Why Is Fibre Important Fibre's importance goes beyond digestion. Tanya Khanna says, "Fibre helps feed your good gut bacteria, slows glucose absorption, lowers cholesterol levels, and helps you feel full, reducing overeating." According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the recommended daily allowance is around 25-30 grams (about 14 grams per 1,000 kcal). But studies show that most Indians consume less than half this requirement, largely due to diets high in refined carbs and processed foods. Swatee Sandhan notes, "A diet of dal (1-2 gm), two rotis (4-5 gm) and vegetables (5 gm) achieves only half the requirement. Most Indians fall short, which is why it is important to include whole grains, legumes, and fruits rich in fibre." Experts also suggest that fibre supports weight management by keeping you satiated, reduces the risk of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and colon cancer, and improves gut microbiome diversity, boosting immunity. Too Much Fibre Overconsumption of fibre can cause discomfort. Khanna warns, "The possible side effects of too much fibre are bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. Constipation can occur if fibre is increased without enough water. It can interfere with mineral absorption if consumed in excessive amounts. It is important to increase fibre gradually and drink at least 2-3 litres of water daily." How To Hit Your Fibre Goals (Ft Indian Households) Fibre doesn't require fancy supplements or imported products. Skip fibre supplements, as experts say Indian kitchens already hold the answers. Everyday staples like dal, whole wheat roti, fruits, and vegetables can cover most of the requirements if planned well. Millets, like ragi, bajra, jowar which are making a comeback thanks to campaigns and government initiatives, are excellent sources too. Tanya Khanna sums it up perfectly, "Think of protein and fibre as teammates. Protein builds your body, but fibre keeps it running smoothly. Both are essential, but most of us need to focus more on getting enough fibre every day." The Fibre Take The fibre conversation is no longer just background noise in nutrition circles. Social media, rising gut-health awareness, and affordable Indian staples are fuelling its rise. While protein remains vital, fibre is finally getting the attention it deserves.


Indian Express
an hour ago
- Indian Express
3 new cases of ‘brain-eating amoeba' in Kerala: What you should know
Three cases of the rare primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) have been reported in Kerala in recent days, leading to the death of a nine-year-old and infecting a three-month-old baby. PAM is a rare brain infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, also called 'brain-eating amoeba'. What also raised questions for the state health department is the fact that there appears to be no common factor among the three cases, which were reported from different villages in the Kozhikode district. The first case of PAM in India was reported in 1971, and the first case in Kerala was reported in 2016. From 2016 to 2023, the state had only eight cases. Last year, Kerala had 36 cases and nine deaths. Here is what to know about the disease and how the amoeba infects people. PAM is caused by Naegleria fowleri, a free-living amoeba or a single-celled living organism. It lives in warm, fresh water and soil around the world, and infects people when it enters the body through the nose. Higher temperatures of up to 115°F (46°C) are conducive to its growth, and it can survive for short periods in warm environments. The amoeba can be found in warm freshwater, such as lakes and rivers, swimming pools, splash pads, surf parks, or other recreational venues that are poorly maintained or minimally chlorinated. Naegleria fowleri enters the body through the nose, usually when people are swimming. It then travels up to the brain, where it destroys the brain tissue and causes swelling. In a Kozhikode case in 2024, it was suspected that the girl was infected while swimming in a local river. However, the other children who swam with her did not get infected. Notably, people cannot get infected with Naegleria fowleri from drinking water contaminated with the amoeba. PAM is also non-communicable. In the initial stage, the symptoms include headache, fever, nausea and vomiting. Later on, the patient may have a stiff neck and experience confusion, seizures, hallucinations and slip into a state of coma. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 'Most people with PAM die within 1 to 18 days after symptoms begin. It usually leads to coma and death after 5 days.' As earlier reported, scientists haven't been able to identify any effective treatments for the disease yet. At present, doctors treat it with a combination of drugs, including amphotericin B, azithromycin, fluconazole, rifampin, miltefosine, and dexamethasone. Past incidents of infection The first incident in Kerala was reported in Alappuzha in 2016, perhaps due to its large number of water bodies. Since then, infections have been reported in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Thrissur. Compared to a 97 per cent fatality rate for the disease globally, Kerala stands at 25 per cent. All reported cases in India had led to the patient's death until July 2024, when a 14-year-old boy in Kozhikode district became the first Indian to survive the disease. He was only the 11th PAM survivor in the world. One of the reasons for the spike in cases in Kerala has been increased testing for acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) – a condition that can be caused by various diseases, including PAM – as well as other factors such as climate change and environmental pollution. In the new cases, another possibility could be that the PAM was caused by a different category of amoeba, according to health department officials.


Hindustan Times
2 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
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Jaipur, August 15: As India marches towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, Rajasthan honoured one of its own changemakers last week. Dr. V.K. Jain, widely known as the 'CPR Doctor of India', was conferred the State Award by Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal for his lifelong contributions to public health, environment, and community empowerment. Rajasthan Doctor V.K. Jain Honoured with State Award for Lifesaving Work, Sustainability Efforts Towards Viksit Bharat From treating patients as a doctor to training over two lakh citizens in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Dr. Jain's mission has been to empower ordinary people with lifesaving skills. He has been at the forefront of a campaign to make CPR training mandatory in schools, a move that could prepare India's younger generation to be first responders in emergencies. Beyond health, his work spans sustainability initiatives, solar power projects, rainwater harvesting, plantation drives, and cleanliness campaigns, all aimed at creating a healthier, greener future. 'True progress comes when every citizen takes responsibility for health, environment, and community,' Dr. Jain said while receiving the award. 'This honour is not mine alone; it belongs to every Indian who chooses to act.' Note To Readers: This article has been produced on behalf of the brand by HT Brand Studio. Want to get your story featured as above? click here!