Divija Bhasin aka awkwardgoat3
Divija
Bhasin is a counseling psychologist and mental health advocate who is transforming how India talks about emotional well-being. Armed with an MSc in Clinical Psychology from the University of Bath, she founded The Friendly Couch, a platform connecting individuals with empathetic, qualified therapists. Through her Instagram handle @awkwardgoat3, she creates relatable, evidence-based content that demystifies therapy and challenges mental health stigma. Divija's impact has earned her a spot on Forbes India's 2023 Digital Stars list, the HT City 30 Under 30 award in Health & Wellness, and the Mental Wellness Expert honour at the ELLE Beauty Awards.
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NDTV
7 hours ago
- NDTV
Here's Why You Must Add Mustard Seeds While Cooking Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are well-known for their cancer-fighting properties. These foods are generally low in calories and rich in fibre, folate and vitamins C, E and K. Additionally, cruciferous vegetables are a good source of beneficial plant compounds that contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. When consumed regularly, cruciferous vegetables are linked with lower rates of many chronic diseases, including cancer and heart disease. Some common cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, bok choy, Brussels sprouts and others. Cruciferous vegetables typically possess anti-inflammatory properties. However, you can boost these properties by adding one simple ingredient during their preparation. Keep reading to know how. In an Instagram video, Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford Universities shared some food combinations that can do wonders to your health. He revealed that adding adding mustard seeds while preparing cruciferous vegetables can maximise their anti-inflammatory properties. "If you add mustard seeds while cooking cruciferous veggies like cabbage and cauliflower, the enzymes boost sulforaphane which is a natural anti-inflammatory compound," he said in the video. Mustard seeds are also highly anti-inflammatory. They are also rich in several essential vitamins and minerals such as copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, manganese, vitamin C, vitamin B6, folic acid and selenium. In the video, Dr. Sethi shared a few more power food combinations including: Black pepper and curcumin: The piperine in pepper boosts curcumin absorption by 2000%. Lemon and green tea: The vitamin C in lemon helps absorb more antioxidants from green tea. Blueberries and walnuts: The polyphenols (blueberries) and Omega-3 (walnuts) team up to protect your brain. Cocoa and coffee: The caffeine and theobromine boost mood, focus and clarity. Chia seeds, basil seeds and yogurt: The fibre and antioxidants can skyrocket your gut health. Try these healthful combinations and boost your health effortlessly 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.
Hindustan Times
10 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Woman who lost 25 kg shares '5 detox teas to melt belly fat': But do these actually work? Gastroenterologists reveal
According to online weight loss coach Amaka, who dropped 25 kg and documents her fitness regime on Instagram, detox teas can be a helpful addition to your weight loss journey, particularly when it comes to melting belly fat. She including combinations like lemon with ginger in her June 10 Instagram post titled '5 easy detox teas to melt belly fat'. She called pineapple peel + ginger tea for 'best detox drink for belly fat blast'. Also read | Woman says drinking okra water for 6 months 'changed her life', improved gut health: Doctor reveals if it actually works Detox teas are widely promoted for their supposed fat-burning and detoxifying properties. But do they really work? In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sudeep Khanna, senior consultant of gastroenterology and Dr Arun Prasad, senior consultant of gastrointestinal and bariatric surgery at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals revealed the truth. But first, here are the detox teas Amaka swears by for a flat tummy: A post shared by CERTIFIED NUTRITIONIST (@shred_with_amaka) Amaka said, 'Super effective in boosting metabolism, aids digestion and reduces bloating. For preparation: boil 1 cup of water, add 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, squeeze in ½ a lemon juiced and let it boil for 5–7 minutes. Best early in the morning on an empty stomach.' 'Helps you to debloat very fast, soothes the stomach, relieves gas and bloating. For preparation: boil cinnamon sticks (2) or 1 tablespoons of cinnamon powder, add a handful of fresh peppermint leaves (or 1 tea bag) to hot water for 5–10 minutes. Drink hot,' Amaka said. Amaka said, 'Best detox drink for belly fat blast. It contains bromelain helps burn belly fat fast, and ginger helps to speed up your metabolism, helping you see better results. For preparation: boil pineapple peels with slices of fresh ginger in 3–4 cups of water for 10–15 minutes, and add a pinch of black pepper. Strain and drink hot.' She added, 'Boosts metabolism and fat burning for faster results. For preparation: boil a bag of green tea and add fresh lemon slices, a medium size. Boil for 5 minutes, add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds, allow to soak for 10-15 minutes and drink warm.' She concluded, 'It's very effective in aiding digestion, balances blood sugar, and totally curbs cravings. For preparation: boil 1 cup water, Add 1 tablespoon ACV, ½ medium-sized lemon juice, a pinch of cinnamon and a teaspoon of turmeric powder.' 'From a medical perspective, herbal teas such as lemon-ginger, peppermint-cinnamon, pineapple-ginger, green tea with lemon and chia, and apple cider vinegar blends are often promoted for their supposed detox, metabolism-boosting, and belly fat-reducing effects. While these beverages contain ingredients with some scientifically recognised health benefits, the claims about their ability to melt belly fat or rapidly detoxify the body are generally exaggerated,' Dr Khanna said. He added, 'For example, ginger and peppermint can soothe digestion and help with mild bloating or discomfort, and green tea contains compounds that may slightly increase metabolism. However, these effects are modest and should not be mistaken for significant or rapid weight loss solutions. The idea that any tea can 'detox' the body is misleading, as your liver and kidneys are responsible for natural detoxification, and no beverage can substitute for these organs' functions.' Asked about the other ingredients Amaka used in her detox teas, he said, 'Apple cider vinegar may help with blood sugar regulation and provide a sense of fullness for some people, but its impact on weight loss is minimal, and it should be consumed with caution, especially by those with digestive sensitivities. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion, but there is no strong evidence linking it to targeted fat loss. Chia seeds add fibre and can promote satiety but do not directly burn fat.' Dr Prasad added, 'You cannot spot-reduce belly fat. Fat loss is systemic, meaning it happens throughout the body based on your overall calorie deficit. Teas may slightly enhance metabolism, but they do not selectively burn belly fat.' According to Dr Prasad, 'many commercial detox teas contain high doses of caffeine, laxatives like senna and sometimes unregulated substances'. 'These can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and digestive issues, especially with regular use. Homemade teas using kitchen ingredients (like cinnamon, ginger, and lemon) are safer and healthier,' he said. The term 'detox' often implies that a product can cleanse your body of toxins. In reality, Dr Prasad said, our liver and kidneys are highly efficient natural detoxifiers. According to him, there is no scientific basis for the claim that teas can 'detox' your body in any meaningful way. 'Some detox teas act as diuretics or laxatives, which may reduce bloating and water weight, but this has nothing to do with fat loss. While detox teas may not be miracle cures, several of their ingredients have modest evidence of supporting metabolism and digestion,' Dr Prasad said. According to Dr Prasad, here's what detox teas can do: ⦿ Reduce water retention ⦿ Ease bloating ⦿ Replace higher-calorie beverages ⦿ Support a healthy routine Dr Prasad said that instead of expecting miracle fat melting, use teas as a supportive habit in your wellness journey: 'Detox teas don't melt belly fat, but the right ingredients can complement a healthy lifestyle. For true, lasting fat loss: focus on a calorie-conscious, nutrient-dense diet, stay physically active, stay well-hydrated and use herbal teas as enjoyable, functional support, not as a replacement for real lifestyle changes.' Note to readers: 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.
Hindustan Times
10 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Nutritionist shares what happens when you start eating berries, beetroot, prunes and other purple foods
Nutritionist Deepshikha Jain, MSc Global Public Health Nutrition UK and National Diabetes Educator, often shares nutrition tips on her Instagram page. On June 11, she posted about the benefits of including purple and black foods in your diet, including blueberries, prunes, beetroot, sweet potatoes, and kala jamun (also known as Java plum). She also listed the many nutrients stored inside these foods. Also Read | Fitness coach shares foods she orders at restaurant after 18 kg weight loss: 'Instead of chole bhature…' Nutritionist Deepsikha shared the list of purple and black foods with the caption, 'Each of these purple foods is so good for your health because they are rich in antioxidants and fibre. So, try consuming these in your diet.' This is what happens when you start eating these purple and black foods: A post shared by Deepsikha Jain (@ According to the nutritionist, when you eat blueberries, they benefit your brain health as they are super rich in anthocyanins, which are actually good for your brain. 'It will reduce cell damage and improve your cognitive function,' she explained. Per the nutritionist, prunes are rich in natural laxatives that can help you cure constipation. In fact, Dr Karan Rajan shared a homemade remedy for fixing constipation with the help of prune juice, butter, and warm water in a recent Instagram clip. Find out the details here. When you eat beetroot, it helps improve your heart health and reduces blood pressure as they are rich in nitrates, per Deepsikha Jain. 'They are also great for a pre-workout snack,' she shared. As for sweet potatoes, eating them helps in reducing your blood sugar. How? According to the nutritionist, they are very rich in fibre and antioxidants, which help control sugar levels. Lastly, she suggested eating kala jamun as it is great for your skin and hair health. Additionally, it is also rich in diuretics, which helps in improving your digestion. Note to readers: 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.
