25% lung cancer cases are of non-smokers
Some cases of lung cancer are also attributed to exposure to estrogens, a group of female sex hormones, which are known human carcinogens. This was said by Radheshyam Naik, Head - Medical Oncology, Hematology & Bone Marrow Transplantation at Sammprada Hospital, Bengaluru, on Lung Cancer Day.
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News18
an hour ago
- News18
Why Does Sex Feel Different With Different Partners?
Last Updated: This phenomenon, often shrouded in personal anecdotes and cultural narratives, actually has a foundation in scientific principles Sex may permeate our popular culture, but conversations about it are still associated with stigma and shame in Indian households. As a result, most individuals dealing with sexual health issues or trying to find information about sex often resort to unverified online sources or follow the unscientific advice of their friends. To address the widespread misinformation about sex, is running this weekly sex column, titled 'Let's Talk Sex'. We hope to initiate conversations about sex through this column and address sexual health issues with scientific insight and nuance. In this article, we will uncover how compatibility and individual differences contribute to the unique tapestry of intimacy. In the realm of intimate relationships, you may have noticed that sexual experiences can vary significantly from one partner to another. This phenomenon, often shrouded in personal anecdotes and cultural narratives, actually has a foundation in scientific principles. Understanding the reasons behind these variations can enhance your awareness of emotional, physical, and psychological factors that influence sexual experiences. The distinctive sensations experienced with different partners can often be attributed to the unique interplay of hormones. Key chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin are released in the brain during moments of attraction, each playing a crucial role in shaping our emotional and physical responses. Dopamine and serotonin, for instance, are responsible for the pleasurable feelings and excitement one might feel during the initial stages of attraction. Meanwhile, the release of oxytocin often called the 'love hormone" is associated with forming deeper emotional bonds and attachment. Furthermore, the body's natural scent, including the subtle influence of pheromones, forms a critical backdrop in the complex orchestra of chemical attraction. Though the role of pheromones in humans is still debated, their potential to inspire a subconscious pull cannot be completely dismissed. Certain scents may trigger nostalgia or familiarity, adding a layer of complexity to why sex feels different with distinct partners. PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS Emotional connections can profoundly impact the sexual experience with different partners. The depth of emotional intimacy in a relationship often influences the degree of comfort and safety one feels during intimate encounters. In relationships where emotional bonding is strong, partners might experience heightened sexual pleasure and fulfilment. This bond fosters an environment of trust, where partners can openly express their desires and boundaries, leading to more meaningful and satisfying experiences. Engaging in sexual behaviour with someone you have an emotional connection with can have positive psychological effects. Studies show that sexual interactions with romantic partners tend to be associated with more positive emotional outcomes compared to those with casual partners. For instance, relationships that are anchored in emotional intimacy are less likely to result in negative feelings post-encounter, whereas casual encounters may lead to an increased negative effect. In conclusion, the emotional landscape of a relationship significantly shapes sexual experiences, influencing both enjoyment and psychological welfare. Therefore, nurturing an emotional connection is key to enriching sexual relations and fostering a healthy emotional life. PHYSICAL ASPECTS The physical makeup of each individual contributes to the sensation experienced during sex. Body composition, which includes factors like muscle and fat distribution, skin texture, and even a partner's unique scent, plays a crucial role in determining the physical dynamics and overall tactile experience. For instance, the specific way a person's body moves can impact the friction and pressure during intimate encounters, leading to distinct sensations. Bodies also vary in temperature, with some individuals naturally running hotter or cooler than others. This variance can influence psychological and physiological responses, enhancing or altering the tactile experience. The diversity in body size and shape can lead to different positioning dynamics and levels of physical closeness, further contributing to the unique sexual experiences with different partners. HORMONAL INTERACTIONS AND CHEMISTRY Hormonal differences can also shape sexual experiences. Each partner brings a unique hormonal cocktail into the mix, which can influence arousal levels and emotional connections. Hormones such as testosterone and estrogen contribute to libido and can affect not only desire but also the intensity of the sexual experience. These biological factors can vary significantly between partners, influencing not just the physical aspect of an encounter but also its emotional depth and connection. Additionally, the pheromones released during physical interaction can distinctly impact attraction and sexual satisfaction. These chemical signals can enhance sexual arousal and bonding, making the experience with one partner feel distinct from another. Understanding these nuances highlights the intricacies of how different bodies and their unique compositions impact sexual dynamics and sensations. EXPLORING COMPATIBILITY Sexual compatibility is more than just initial attraction; it encompasses a complex interplay of factors that contribute to the overall satisfaction in intimate relationships. At its core, sexual compatibility involves aligning partners' preferences, communication styles, and emotional needs to cultivate a mutual and fulfilling experience. Open and honest communication is a cornerstone of sexual compatibility. By discussing desires, boundaries, and preferences, partners can avoid misunderstandings and build trust, essential elements in any relationship. Experts emphasize the importance of creating a safe space where both partners feel heard and validated, which enhances overall intimacy and satisfaction. Thus, communication bridges the gap between expectations and reality, leading to a more connected and exciting sexual relationship. Emotional intimacy forms the foundation of a healthy sexual relationship, nurturing trust and openness between partners. According to research, being emotionally attuned with your partner enhances sexual experiences and satisfaction. It transcends the physical realm, allowing couples to explore each other's desires and needs, deepening their bond and facilitating fulfilling sexual interactions. In exploring the scientific intricacies of why sex feels different with various partners, you gain a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between biology, psychology, and personal experiences. The unique dynamics of each relationship, influenced by chemistry, emotional connection, and individual preferences, shape your intimate encounters in distinct ways. By acknowledging these factors, you can better navigate the diverse landscape of human sexuality, fostering more meaningful and fulfilling connections. As you continue to embrace the diversity of your sexual experiences, let this knowledge empower you to cultivate a richer, more nuanced perspective on intimacy and personal growth. About the Author Prof (Dr) Saransh Jain Prof (Dr) Saransh Jain is the winner of the Swasth Bharat Rattan Award and is a Certified and Licensed Sexologist by the American Board of Sexology. He is currently a Senior Consultant at Dr SK Jain's More The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : lets talk sex view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: August 03, 2025, 22:50 IST News lifestyle Let's Talk Sex | Why Does Sex Feel Different With Different Partners? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
What exactly is maltodextrin? Why it's in most of your favourite packaged snacks
You've probably eaten maltodextrin today — maybe more than once — without even realising it. It's one of those invisible ingredients hiding on the back of nearly every processed food label in India. Chips, biscuits, instant soups, drink powders, ready mixes, even some of those 'healthy' energy bars — they all have it. It's not a buzzword, not a flavour, and definitely not something most people talk about. But it's everywhere. So, what is maltodextrin? It's a fine, white powder made from starch — usually corn, rice, wheat, or potato. It doesn't taste sweet like sugar, but it's still a carb. And a highly processed one at that. It's not added for flavour. Maltodextrin is used to thicken, blend, preserve, and stabilise. It gives sauces a smooth texture, keeps dry mixes from clumping, helps snacks stay crisp, and makes powders dissolve better. Basically, it helps processed food behave the way we expect it to. That's why you'll find it in everything from protein powders to masala mixes. It's cheap, neutral-tasting, and extremely functional — a favourite for manufacturers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Is it safe? Yes, technically. It's approved by the FSSAI and global food authorities. In small amounts, it's not considered dangerous. But here's where it gets tricky: it has a very high glycaemic index — even higher than table sugar. That means it can spike your blood sugar quickly, which isn't great news if you have diabetes, insulin resistance, or are just trying to eat a little smarter. It's not toxic, but it's not bringing anything useful to the table either — no vitamins, no minerals, no fibre. It's just a processed carb doing its behind-the-scenes job in your snack. Why is it in so many Indian snacks? Because it works. Our packaged foods — especially namkeens, powdered chutneys, masala mixes, ready-to-fry snacks, and drink powders — need to stay shelf-stable and survive our weather. Maltodextrin helps with that. It keeps things crispy, smooth, dry, or pourable, depending on the need. Plus, it hides well. Since it doesn't technically count as 'sugar,' it shows up even in products that claim to be sugar-free or low-fat. So even when the label looks clean, maltodextrin might still be there, quietly doing its job. Should you avoid it altogether? Not really. It's not poison — but it's also not something you want in every single meal. Like most food additives, the problem isn't one bite. It's when your diet is full of processed foods and snacks that include it in every form. That's when it starts adding up, especially if you're trying to manage your blood sugar, inflammation, or overall energy levels. Your best bet? Check the label. If it's there in a snack you enjoy occasionally, fine. But if it's in your daily breakfast, lunch, snacks, and post-workout shake — maybe rethink a few things. At the end of the day, maltodextrin is one of those ingredients that reminds us why real food matters. It's not scary. It's just a shortcut — one that works for food companies, but doesn't do much for you. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes , messages and quotes !
The Hindu
4 hours ago
- The Hindu
Andhra Pradesh Health Minister calls for Indianisation of industry
Minister for Medical and Health Satya Kumar Yadav has emphasised the need for 'Indianisation' of the industry, calling for the reflection of Indian philosophy and thought in the products and services offered by Indian enterprises. Speaking at the valedictory session of the 70th anniversary celebrations of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) — the trade union arm of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) — here on Sunday, Mr. Yadav recalled the Sangh's slogan 'Desa Hitham, Parisrama Hitham, Karmika Hitham', which translates to the well-being of the nation, the industry, and the worker. He said Indian industries must strive to meet global standards while remaining rooted in national values and sought the cooperation of 'right-thinking workers' to realise this vision. He also urged workers to support the smooth functioning and growth of industries. Adulterated cooking oil Meanwhile, the BJP's Tirupati unit submitted a memorandum to the Minister, demanding action to curb the rampant sale of adulterated cooking oil in the temple city, which it said posed a serious threat to public health. District BJP president Samanchi Srinivas, in the memorandum, alleged that unlabelled and fake brands of cooking oil were being sold without any quality checks, particularly in areas with a high floating population and concentration of street food vendors — such as Indira Priyadarshini market, Bairagipatteda, Tirupati railway station, and Renigunta bus station. He warned that consumption of such oil could leasd to gastric irritation, indigestion, heart ailments, liver disorders, and even cancer. Mr. Srinivas also criticised the inaction surrounding the Food Safety on Wheels vehicle, allotted to the district under a Union government initiative in 2023. The mobile testing unit, meant to monitor food safety standards, continues to lie unused and idle at the Collectorate complex, he lamented.
