Latest news with #ApolloSpectraMumbai
Indian Express
14-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Metabolic coach says he experienced ‘massive spike' in blood sugar levels after eating makhanas: ‘I don't understand the hype'
Foxnuts or makhanas, also called lotus seeds, have become the go-to snack for many of us, considering their USP: 'satiety sans calories.' However, while most experts vouch for its benefits, metabolic health coach Karan Sarin, who tests Indian foods and their effect on metabolism, shared that two hours after having 30 grams of makhanas, he noticed a spike in his blood sugar levels. 'I hope you are not going to hate me for it. My blood sugar has gone up by 76 points. This is a massive spike. The reason I have this spike is that roughly 78 percent of the caloric content of makhanas comes from carbohydrates, which meant that the 30 grams serving contained 5 grams protein, but 23 grams of carbohydrates, out of which 4.5 grams was fibre,' said Sarin in an Instagram post. Sarin noted that the 'good thing' is that they are shallow in fat content. 'However, I don't understand the hype around makhanas if I look at it objectively. I would rather snack on unsalted peanuts or eat dal, for that matter, which contains higher protein, lesser carbs, and a little bit more fat,' added Sarin. Fauziya Ansari, dietitian at Apollo Spectra Mumbai, agreed that makhanas have gained massive popularity among people and on social media due to their health benefits. 'They are considered one of the ideal snacking options for those worried about their calorie intake. They are good sources of antioxidants and contain some protein,' said Ansari. However, despite all the health benefits, Ansari concurred that 'experiencing a sudden spike in your blood sugar levels after eating makhanas' is possible because they are a carbohydrate-dense food item. 'If makhanas are consumed at a stretch without a break in between, significant intake of carbohydrates in your body results in increased blood sugar levels,' said Ansari. According to Ansari, how makhanas are prepared can also have a significant impact on their glycemic health. 'If you fry your makhana in ghee or oil, it can increase its fat content and may negatively affect how your body processes the food,' said Ansari. Ansari said that every food consumed impacts blood sugar levels, so the key to keeping sugar levels stable is to eat them in moderation. 'Avoid frying them in ghee or oil; instead, opt for the slightly roasted or air-popped ones for your health. If you have any concerns about eating makhanas, consider consulting a nutritionist or a dietitian for expert guidance,' said Ansari. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Indian Express
07-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
The benefits (and drawbacks) of consuming kadhi-chawal
Social media can leave you feeling bemused, one post at a time. That's exactly how we felt when we chanced upon a video by Sugandha Sharma, an ayurveda consultant, claiming that kadhi made with curd instead of buttermilk can lead to joint pains and aches later in life. 'Curd and gram flour (besan) combination is not good for health. Both these items increase inflammation in the body. Moreover, curd should not be heated. Instead, prepare kadhi authentically from buttermilk derived from butter rather than curd. It is more tasty and is better for health,' said Sharma. Since we could not digest this piece of information, we immediately reached out to Fauziya Ansari, dietitian, Apollo Spectra Mumbai, who said 'more concrete research' is needed to prove that having kadhi made with curd can potentially lead to joint and knee pain. 'There is no proven link between eating kadhi — an Indian delicacy — and knee pain. While it might cause discomfort for those with lactose intolerance or sensitive stomachs, it isn't always the case,' said Ansari. Instead of relying on social media, consult a nutritionist or dietician to weigh the possible consequences and benefits of different dishes for overall health, asserted Ansari. Concurring, Dr Haricharan G, senior consultant physician, HoD, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad, added that while it has no relation to knee pain, kadhi is 'rich in protein and probiotics due to its yogurt content, which supports gut health. However, it is often prepared with significant amounts of oil, which can increase its calorie content and make it less suitable for those managing weight or cholesterol levels,' he added. 'The addition of deep-fried pakoras in some versions further adds to the unhealthy fat content,' he continued. Should you have buttermilk-made kadhi? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock) Kadhi is usually paired with a type of rice with a high glycemic index, which can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. 'This may not be ideal for individuals with diabetes or those trying to manage their blood sugar levels,' stressed Dr Haricharan. For a healthier version, consider using less oil, avoiding deep-fried additions, and pairing the kadhi with brown or smaller portion of white rice. 'Including plenty of vegetables and balancing your overall diet with fibre-rich foods can help mitigate some of the less healthy aspects of this dish,' said Dr Haricharan. If you suffer from joint pain for an extended period, consider consulting an expert. 'After closely examining your lifestyle and dietary choices, your dietician may suggest a customised diet plan that meets your daily intake of essential nutrients and vitamins to strengthen your bones and joints,' said Ansari. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sugandha Sharma (@ This can effectively help combat knee pain while alleviating the symptoms. While it is natural to be curious about various health tips you see online it's vital to approach them with critical thinking.
Time of India
22-04-2025
- Health
- Time of India
'Currently have 2 ovarian cysts': Hailey Bieber opens up about recurring health condition; should you be worried?
Hailey Bieber, the 28-year-old model and beauty entrepreneur, recently opened up about her health struggles. She revealed that she has been living with two ovarian cysts, and she shared this update only eight months after she gave birth to her first child, Jack Blues Bieber, with husband Justin Bieber in 2024. The beauty queen also revealed suffering from a pair of ovarian cysts in an Instagram post on April 21, 2025. Sharing a post about the same, she posted a picture of herself lying on the couch and wrote, "Currently have 2 ovarian cysts 😩." "If you deal with ovarian cysts, I'm right there with ya!," she added. However, Bieber did not announce a formal diagnosis or any other information on the same in the post. But what are ovarian cysts? Are they dangerous? Ovarian cysts are a type of fluid-filled sac that develops either on or inside a woman's ovary. 'Most cysts are usually harmless and go away on their own. But some may become stubborn and cause numerous problems like extreme pain, bloating, or changes in your menstrual cycles,' says Dr. Gauri Jagdale, Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharadi, Pune. Beware: Ovarian cysts can come back; know the risk factors According to USA Today, this is not the first time that Bieber has dealt with the pain of an ovarian cyst. In November 2022, Hailey shared an Instagram post mentioning that she had a cyst on her ovary the size of an apple. "I don't have endometriosis or PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), but I have gotten an ovarian cyst a few times, and it's never fun," Bieber added in the post. Can ovarian cysts come back? 'One must understand that a cyst can come back again due to various reasons,' adds Dr. Jagdale. In severe cases, ovarian cysts can burst or even twist the ovary, which may require prompt medical intervention. Dr. Jagdale goes on to say, 'This can include hormonal imbalance, not treating the underlying cause properly, endometriosis, undergoing certain fertility treatments, and lifestyle factors like stress, poor diet, or lack of sleep can play an important role.' Check 5 reasons why cysts can recur Many of the cysts are harmless and tend to resolve on their own without any treatment. Currently, a large number of women experience ovarian cysts. 'Moreover, ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that are commonly formed inside the ovaries. However, women should also understand that some cysts can lead to pain, bloating, and hormonal imbalances and demand timely medical attention, explains Dr. Tejal Soni, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Apollo Spectra Mumbai. Here are 5 common reasons behind it Stress: The reasons behind the recurrence of the cysts can be attributed to hormonal imbalances, conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, poor eating habits, and stress can also lead to the recurrence. Delayed treatment: Recurring cysts can also lead to ovarian torsion, rupture, or fertility issues in women if not managed on time, and there is a delay in treatment. Hence, regular gynaecological checkups and appropriate medical management can help women manage ovarian cysts. Ignoring symptoms: Most of the time, women neglect the early symptoms of cysts. Timely detection and care can help women improve their reproductive health and lower the chances of recurrence of the cysts. Lack of awareness: Follow the guidelines given by the doctor without fail. Women, it is imperative to take charge of your reproductive health by making informed health choices. Poor lifestyle: Poor lifestyle Lifestyle factors like stress, poor diet, or lack of sleep can play an important role. This is why it becomes crucial to stay vigilant and detect any type of abnormality or formation of a cyst at an initial stage. Early detection can help save lives. This can be achieved by going for regular checkups and timely scans to track and manage cysts properly. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.
