Latest news with #AakashHealthcare
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Ashton Hall is in India, we look at benefits of mouth taping that reduces sleep apnea and help with quality of sleep
An ice facial in Saratoga water to jump-start his day at the crack of dawn followed by meditation and a pump at the gym, if you've been scrolling on Instagram, you know exactly who we're talking about - wellness and lifestyle influencer Ashton Hall. He is now in India and recently brought his brand of fitness to the country with a special Insta Reel that shows him running on the streets with his fans. With over 16.8 million followers and his most viral Day In My Life reel raking in over 80 million views, Ashton has courted controversy with his somewhat extreme steps and even birthed several parody videos. But, he has also prompted other wellness influencers to adopt his mouth-taping habit, while posting about it. A post shared by Ashton Hall (@ashtonhall) But what is mouth taping? And are there any benefits to this practice? With Ashton's presence in the city, we speak to health experts to understand this wellness trend. 'This new sleeping trend consists of taping one's mouth shut to promote breathing through the nose when you are sleeping,' explains Dr Chaitanya Kulkarni, Consultant, General Medicine, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai. The tape is placed from the upper lip to the bottom lip reaching the chin. It can be placed vertically or horizontally so that your mouth is closed during your entire sleep duration. A special tape is used that is porous and is safe to use on human skin as the adhesive can cause irritation or an allergic reaction. A post shared by Ashton Hall (@ashtonhall) Some of the main benefits of mouth taping are that it reduces sleep apnea and snoring while bettering the quality of sleep. It can also benefit those who suffer from issues like dry mouth, bad breath, gum and cavity disease, help in increased oxygen intake, etc. However, Dr Akshay Budhraja, HOD, Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Aakash Healthcare, Delhi, says, 'Mouth taping is undertaken by several adults who face issues with sleep. They do it on the suggestions of friends, relatives and now, social media. Studies have been conducted to determine the benefits, but the sample sizes were too small. The benefits are not clinically proven but there is a lot of ongoing research on this trend.' If you are going to give this trend a try, Dr Kashmira Jhala, Consultant Pulmonologist and Sleep Medicine Specialist, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, suggests: could indicate that there's an underlying issue obstructing nasal airflow. Inputs by Dr Pujan Parikh, Consultant, Sleep Medicine Expert, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
From plate to gut: The silent threat of microplastics
This World Environment Day, the theme 'End Plastic Pollution' highlights a pressing issue: microplastics in our food. These tiny plastic particles, less than 5mm in size, have infiltrated our diets, posing significant health risks. Microplastics are minute plastic particles resulting from the breakdown of larger plastics. Due to their durability, they persist in the environment and have been found in various foods. Dr. Sharad Malhotra, Senior Consultant & Director of Gastroenterology at Aakash Healthcare, says, 'Microplastics are minute plastic particles formed by the decomposition of plastics, which are widespread in nature and hence damage both wildlife and people. They have been found in a variety of foods and can also be inhaled.' Microplastics enter the food chain through various pathways: Seafood: Marine animals ingest plastic debris, which then enters the human diet. Salt: Sea salt, in particular, is contaminated due to ocean pollution. Drinking Water: Both bottled and tap water contain microplastics. Honey and Sugar: Studies have detected plastic particles in these sweeteners. Fruits and Vegetables: Crops irrigated with contaminated water accumulate microplastics. Plastic Packaging: Leaching from containers during storage or heating contributes to contamination. Dr. Bir Singh Sehrawat, Program Clinical Director & HOD of Gastroenterology at Marengo Asia Hospitals Faridabad, explains, 'Microplastics consumed through food, water, or air may build up in the body, particularly within the gastrointestinal tract, raising the risk of certain health issues like gut inflammation, dysbiosis (imbalance in gut microbiota), and potentially increased risk of conditions such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBS) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBD). Microplastics may also give rise to systemic inflammation, leading to other chronic conditions.' The ingestion of microplastics has been linked to various health issues: Hormone Disruption: Chemicals like BPA and phthalates, associated with plastics, can interfere with hormone production. Immune System Dysfunction: Microplastics can cause oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to immune system dysfunction. DNA Damage: Long-term exposure may lead to genetic mutations and increased cancer risk. Dr. Mandeep Singh Malhotra, Senior Oncologist at Art of Healing Cancer, warns, 'They can also cause DNA damage leading to cancers. They can interfere in our endocrine systems, that is production of hormones. Our immune system also comes under excessive oxidative stress and inflammation, which causes it to dysfunction.' Some finds to microplastics are worrying. 'In one study, scientists found microplastics in human blood for the first time. In another, they found plastic particles in the placenta of unborn babies. People who eat a lot of seafood or work in plastic-related industries may be at higher risk. In extreme cases, long-term exposure has been linked to problems like breathing issues, hormone imbalance, and even organ damage,' says Samiksha Kalra, Dietician, Madhukar Rainbow Children Hospital. To mitigate exposure to microplastics: Opt for Fresh Foods: Choose fresh produce over packaged items. Use Alternative Containers: Replace plastic containers with glass or stainless steel. Avoid Heating Food in Plastic: Do not microwave food in plastic containers. Choose Personal Care Products Wisely: Avoid products containing microbeads. Dr. Bir Singh advises, 'Opt for fresh food and ditch plastic water bottles, using glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastics. Avoid heating food in plastic containers especially in microwave as the heat can cause the plastic to break down and leach microplastics into your food. Use glass or ceramic instead. Choose personal care products wisely as many face scrubs and toothpaste contain tiny plastic microbeads.'
Mint
03-06-2025
- Health
- Mint
Why short bursts of cold showers are good for you
Long before Wim Hof turned ice baths into an internet spectacle, ancient Greeks bathed in cold water to rouse the senses. Romans built entire chambers—the frigidarium—around the idea. In Victorian asylums, cold dousing was used to 'correct" unruly behaviour. After a century of hot-water comfort, the pendulum is swinging back. Today, cold showers are touted for sharper focus, reduced inflammation, and mood boosts. Silicon Valley CEOs swear by them. Fitness influencers frame them as proof of grit. But beyond the invigorating jolt, what does science really say? Also read: To boost your mood, treat your brain to good food. Here's why 'Pairing short cold showers with breathwork or post-exercise recovery can significantly amplify the benefits," says Asad Hussain, founder and CEO of OddsFitness. 'When practiced mindfully, cold exposure taps into the body's natural stress adaptation systems that not only boost circulation and metabolism, but also train the nervous system to better handle real-life stress." The term for this mild, beneficial stress is 'hormesis'—a biological phenomenon where small doses of a stressor (in this case, cold) trigger adaptive benefits in the body. Cold exposure, Hussain explains, reduces systemic inflammation, enhances immune response, and activates brown fat—a metabolically active fat tissue known for burning energy to generate heat. From a cardiovascular standpoint, the body's reaction is swift and pronounced. 'Cold water exposure has an immediate impact on the cardiovascular system," explains Dr Sukriti Bhalla, senior consultant & unit head, cardiology, Aakash Healthcare, Delhi. 'The body perceives it as a stressor, which causes blood vessels to constrict and the heart rate to rise. In healthy individuals, this can actually be beneficial over time—it trains the vascular system to become more adaptable and resilient." ELEVEN MINUTES TO A STRONGER YOU One of the most talked-about trends in cold therapy is the so-called '11-minute rule"—a protocol involving a total of 11 minutes of cold exposure per week, typically broken into 2–3 minute intervals. 'This is the threshold where benefits like brown fat activation and neurochemical boosts begin to manifest," says Hussain. 'Beyond that, the returns diminish and the risks rise." Indeed, more is not always better. Chronic cold exposure can backfire, potentially straining the thyroid, disrupting hormonal balance, or even suppressing immunity in vulnerable individuals. Hussain emphasizes a 'short, sharp, and recoverable" approach. 'Controlled hormetic stress, not overwhelming stress, is the key." In the broader conversation around longevity, cold showers join an elite group of hormetic tools that include intermittent fasting and high intensity interval training (HIIT). 'Cold exposure is unique in its impact on the nervous system and inflammation control," Hussain notes. 'Fasting and HIIT target metabolic health more directly. A thoughtful combination of all three is likely the most effective strategy for long-term vitality." The biological pathways activated by cold exposure are still being mapped, but early evidence suggests links to mitochondrial function, oxidative stress reduction, and possibly even the preservation of telomere length and favourable epigenetic changes—all markers tied to aging and resilience. Also read: A (little) pain is good for you. Here's why Adopting a cold shower habit isn't just a mental challenge— it's a physiological investment. After six months, many individuals report a cocktail of improvements including enhanced circulation, better blood sugar regulation, and even hormonal balance. 'Behaviourally, people experience better stress tolerance, focus, mood elevation, and deeper sleep," says Hussain. Perhaps most notably, cold showers seem to sharpen the mind's ability to endure discomfort. 'This tolerance transfers to real life—reducing baseline anxiety and increasing clarity," he adds. In a 2008 paper published in Medical Hypotheses, researcher Nikolai A Shevchuk proposed that 'adapted cold showers" may relieve symptoms of depression by triggering neurochemical responses like increased noradrenaline and beta-endorphin release. THE CAVEATS For all its acclaim, cold exposure can be counterproductive—particularly for individuals with certain health conditions. Women with hypothyroidism or autoimmune thyroid disease may be more vulnerable to cold intolerance, Hussain explains. Likewise, those grappling with adrenal fatigue or HPA axis dysregulation—conditions marked by chronic stress—should proceed with caution. 'For them, cold exposure might increase cortisol output, worsening fatigue, anxiety, or insomnia," he warns. Minakshi Pant, 26, an entrepreneur in Delhi, learned this the hard way. 'My friends were trying cold showers—some even ice baths—so I gave it a shot," she recalls. 'But I have Raynaud's syndrome, and my symptoms worsened. My fingers went numb, and at night they would twitch painfully." Her doctor confirmed her suspicion: cold exposure had exacerbated her condition. Prolonged or very cold exposure, especially in individuals with heart disease or high blood pressure, can provoke abnormal heart rhythms or elevate blood pressure to dangerous levels," notes Bhalla. 'For most people, starting with brief exposures under two minutes and working up gradually is both safe and effective." As with any wellness trend, personalization is key. FOR GLOWING SKIN Beyond their metabolic and neurological perks, cold showers have been touted as a path to glowing, youthful skin. But how much of that is dermatology-backed reality? 'Cold water does have tangible skin benefits," says Dr Nirupama Parwanda, dermatologist and founder of Zolie Skin Clinic in Delhi. 'It can reduce puffiness, inflammation, and tighten pores temporarily. Also read: Should you try the celeb-approved lymphatic drainage massage? For individuals with oily skin, cold water may modestly reduce sebum production. 'In conditions like dermatitis or allergic reactions, cold water can help soothe irritation and reduce itching," she notes. Cold water also improves blood circulation—briefly lending the skin a more radiant, flushed appearance. But the glow is often fleeting. 'It's a combination of physical changes and how you feel after—the mood boost plays a role too," Parwanda explains. The temporary 'tightness' or brightness is not the same as lasting transformation. While most skin types can tolerate cold showers, Parwanda cautions against a one-size-fits-all approach. 'Sensitive or rosacea-prone skin may benefit from the inflammation-reducing effect of cold water during flare-ups but abrupt temperature changes can actually provoke rebound flushing in others." She warns that cold water, compared to lukewarm water, can impede the skin's ability to absorb active ingredients in topical treatments. As colder seasons approach, the situation becomes trickier. 'In winter, cold showers can exacerbate dryness, especially for those with eczema or psoriasis," she explains. 'It's important to use moisturisers rich in ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or shea butter. And always apply sunscreen." Ultimately, the resurgence of cold showers as a wellness tool mirrors a broader cultural shift from convenience and comfort to resilience and discipline. 'Cold exposure can become a keystone habit," says Hussain, 'one that trains the mind, energizes the body, and nudges you toward a more intentional lifestyle." Tanisha Saxena is a Delhi-based independent journalist. She writes stories that are on the intersection of art, culture and lifestyle. Also read: Want to recover fast from injury? Quit fizzy drinks and alcohol
Hindustan Times
31-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
World No Tobacco Day: Expert shares 5 ways smoking actively damages your mental health
World No Tobacco Day 2025: Every year on May 31, World No Tobacco Day is observed to raise awareness about the ill effects of tobacco on health. WHO has announced the theme for this year - 'Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.' This campaign intends to shed light on the manipulative tactics the tobacco industry uses to make smoking appear attractive. While it is already well-known how smoking harms physical health, the toxic content of cigarettes doesn't spare mental health either. In the culture of 'chai sutta breaks', smoking is commonly thought to remove mental roadblocks, beckoning those lightbulb moments of creativity. Even beyond that, it's generally considered a stress buster. But in reality, smoking worsens your mental health in more ways than one. Dr Pavitra Shankar, psychiatrist at Aakash Healthcare, shared with HT Lifestyle how mental health takes a serious hit because of smoking. She said, 'Mental health starts to improve within weeks of quitting. People feel calmer, sleep better, and feel more in control. Mood improves, and confidence returns.' Dr Pavitra shared a guide with us, listing out some of the ways you may be damaging your mental health if you are a smoker: ALSO READ: 'Sitting is the new smoking': Fitness expert suggests 4 exercises you can do if you sit for too long 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
22-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Japanese walking: 30-min trick to fitness?
We all know walking is good for us — our smartwatches serve reminders about 10,000 times a day! But what if there was a smarter, science-backed method to hail its benefits? Enter the Interval Walking Technique (IWT). Created by Japanese exercise physiologist Dr Hiroshi Nose, this routine has turned the humble activity of walking into a supercharged method of reclaiming health! In fact, experts are suggesting that it might just be more efficient than clocking 10,000 steps a day — also a Japanese invention. Japanese interval walking aka IWT is a simple 30-minute routine of alternating slow and fast walking every three to five minutes. Designed to elevate the heart rate during the brisk intervals and recover during the slower phases, it helps prevent overexertion and joint pressure. Begin with a three to five-minute warm-up walk at an easy pace. Once warmed up, pick up the pace for a brisk walk or light jogging, measuring your breath as you go. After three minutes, pace yourself for a slower stroll, focusing on your breath pattern for the next three minutes. Switch again after three minutes. Repeat five times throughout the 30 minutes. Before ending the workout, set aside two to three minutes to cool down with a slow walk. And voilà! You're on your way to a fitter heart, stronger legs, and a better life. Several experts have suggested that IWT is actually more beneficial than the daily target of achieving 10,000 steps. 'While walking 10,000 steps a day is a popular goal, the Interval Walking Technique can be more effective because it focuses not just on quantity but also intensity. The alternation between fast bursts and slower walks pushes your heart rate higher, boosts metabolism, and improves fitness faster,' says Dr Sunil Rana. The best part about this trend is the fact that it can be practised at any place without equipment. All you need is 30 minutes and a trusty pair of comfortable shoes. This technique also offers numerous health benefits. 'Brisk walking helps elevate the heart rate to a moderate level — essential for cardiovascular fitness and long-term heart health,' informs Dr Ashish Agarwal. Walking fast for short bursts makes the heart beat faster, get fitter, and improves overall blood flow. 'Alternating between speeds raises the metabolic rate more effectively than regular walking, helping burn more calories and improve fat oxidation,' explains Dr Sukriti Bhalla from Aakash Healthcare. This routine elevates your metabolism and fat burning as compared to hours of slow-paced activity, helping you not only lose but also keep the extra weight off. Dr Sunil Rana from Asian Hospital shares, 'Japanese interval walking improves blood pressure and helps regulate blood sugar levels, which can reduce the risk of diabetes and stroke.' The seemingly gentle regimen helps the body make endorphins aka happy chemicals! This 'improves mood and sleep quality', promoting less stress and better sleep, says Dr Rana. Regular IWT practitioners experience better thigh muscles, aerobic power, and alleviation of lifestyle diseases — enough to make them feel younger, fitter, and healthier. Unlike high-impact activities like running or sports, IWT is easy on the joints, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. All one must gather is a willingness to walk with purpose!
