Latest news with #BarkhaMathur
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Business Standard
01-08-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Can juice fast really detox your body? Here's what doctors want you to know
Fact-check Friday: Juice cleanses promise detox, weight loss, and instant energy, but are they truly effective or just hyped-up health myths? Barkha Mathur New Delhi 'Three-day juice fast challenge', 'green juice detoxes', 'seven-day juice reset', and 'glow-up juice detox' have become popular health trends on social media, often touted as a quick fix to 'reset' the body, shed excess weight, or undo days of unhealthy eating. Promoted by influencers and wellness brands, these fasts promise benefits that sound appealing, especially to those seeking easy health hacks. But behind the viral appeal lies a growing concern among medical experts: many of these claims are scientifically unproven, misleading, and in some cases, potentially harmful. In this edition of Fact-check Friday, we unpack the truth behind juice cleanse myths with insights from Dr Mohit Sharma, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad. Myth 1: Juice fasts detox your body Fact: Your body already has a built-in detox system called your liver and kidneys. 'They do the detoxing job 24x7. You don't need expensive juices for that,' said Dr Sharma. So, before you drop thousands on a fancy cleanse, remember your organs are already doing the work for free. Myth 2: Juice fasts lead to sustainable weight loss Fact: You'll probably see the number on the scale drop, but don't celebrate just yet. 'It's mostly water weight,' Dr Sharma explained. Once you start eating normally again, it usually comes right back. Long-term weight loss doesn't come in a bottle—it comes from consistent, balanced eating and movement. Myth 3: Juice is as nutritious as whole fruits and vegetables Fact: 'When you juice, you strip out the fibre and sometimes even the nutrients,' said Dr Sharma. What you're left with is mostly sugar. Eating the whole fruit or vegetable—with skin and pulp—offers far more nutritional benefits and keeps your digestion on track. Myth 4: Juice fasting gives your digestive system a 'break' Fact: Your digestive system isn't a tired employee that needs time off. In fact, ' Your gut thrives on fibre, and juice doesn't have any,' explained Dr Sharma. Skipping fibre may actually make digestion sluggish over time. Myth 5: Juice fasts cure chronic diseases Fact: There's zero scientific evidence to back that up. 'Extreme diets like juice cleanses can even worsen conditions like diabetes or kidney disease,' warned Dr Sharma. If you're managing a chronic illness, always consult a doctor—don't rely on juice to be your medicine. Myth 6: Juice gives you more energy Fact: You may feel a temporary boost, but it's usually a sugar high. 'Juices are mostly simple sugars. After the initial spike, you'll likely feel even more tired,' said Dr Sharma. Energy levels are better maintained with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs—not just sugar-laden sips. Myth 7: Juice fasts are safe for everyone Fact: 'They can be risky, especially for children, pregnant women, older adults, or people with existing health conditions,' cautioned Dr Sharma. Just because it's natural doesn't mean it's safe for all. Myth 8: Drinking juice is the same as eating a salad Fact: 'A salad has fibre and keeps you full. Juice? Not so much,' Dr Sharma said. It may taste refreshing, but it won't keep your hunger at bay for long. Myth 9: All juices are healthy Fact: Some are loaded with sugar, preservatives, and additives. 'Even cold-pressed ones can be high in natural sugars and low in actual nutrition,' said Dr Sharma. Read those labels carefully. Myth 10: Feeling weak or dizzy during a juice fast means it's working Fact: No, that's a red flag. Weakness often means your blood sugar is crashing or you're running low on vital nutrients. 'Feeling dizzy or tired isn't a sign of healing—it's your body crying out for help,' Dr Sharma said. Myth 11: Juice fasts boost your metabolism Fact: Ironically, the opposite is true. 'When your calorie intake drops too low, your metabolism slows down to conserve energy,' explained Dr Sharma. Long-term, this can make weight management even harder. Myth 12: Juice cleanses reset your DNA or cells Fact: That's just well-packaged pseudoscience. 'No juice can reset your genes or heal your cells. It's a fancy claim without medical basis,' said Dr Sharma. True cellular health comes from regular, balanced nutrition—not quick fixes. Myth 13: Juice fasts are a spiritual or mental clarity shortcut Fact: Any mental clarity you feel might come from taking a break from caffeine, junk food, or decision fatigue—not from the juice itself. 'It's not magic—just temporary lifestyle changes,' Dr Sharma notes. Myth 14: A 3-day juice cleanse is enough to undo months of bad eating Fact: Unfortunately, no. 'If only it were that simple,' Dr Sharma said. Real health doesn't come from occasional punishment. It comes from daily, sustainable habits—even small ones. Myth 15: Doctors and nutritionists recommend juice fasts Fact: Most don't. 'We recommend balanced meals, not quick fixes. Fads fade, healthy habits last,' Dr Sharma emphasised. Juice isn't evil—but it's not a magic elixir either. Instead of chasing a detox trend, focus on eating whole foods, staying active, and listening to your body. That's the real reset.
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Business Standard
10-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Why the first 60 minutes after a heart attack can make all the difference
The first hour after a heart attack can mean the difference between survival and lasting damage; doctors explain what to do in the Golden Hour Barkha Mathur New Delhi Why the Golden Hour is critical in a heart attack Heart attacks are no longer confined to the elderly. Increasingly, young professionals in their 30s and 40s—juggling high stress, long work hours, and unhealthy lifestyles—are facing cardiac emergencies. Yet many delay seeking help, mistaking early signs for acidity, anxiety, or fatigue. Doctors warn this delay can be fatal. The first 60 minutes after a heart attack, called the 'Golden Hour,' are crucial. Timely medical care during this window can significantly reduce heart damage and save lives. Even brief delays could mean the difference between recovery and lifelong heart failure. What happens during the Golden Hour? The Golden Hour refers to the first 60 minutes following the onset of a heart attack. According to Dr Dibyaranjan Behera, Interventional Cardiologist at Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, this is the window in which blood flow to the heart must be restored to avoid permanent muscle damage. Dr Rockey Katheria of Manipal Hospital Varthur adds that every minute counts: millions of heart muscle cells can be lost each minute. 'Irreversible damage begins within 30 minutes of blockage,' he said. In the first 10 minutes, there is often no major muscle loss. Between one and two hours, damage begins to affect the inner layers of the heart. After two hours, as much as 80 per cent of the affected heart muscle may be irreparably damaged. What are the risks if you delay treatment? Delaying treatment can lead to: Massive heart muscle loss Weakened pumping capacity Increased risk of fatal arrhythmias Higher chances of heart failure 'When treatment is delayed, damage spreads from the inner to the outer layers of the heart,' said Dr Katheria. 'This reduces heart function, increases risk of complications, and decreases chances of recovery.' What happens if you reach the hospital within the Golden Hour? Arriving at a hospital during the Golden Hour triggers a rapid emergency response: Immediate ECG to confirm the heart attack Clot-busting drugs (thrombolysis) if cardiac cath lab access is delayed Emergency angioplasty (primary PCI) if facilities are available Quick transfers to a cardiac centre when required 'It's all about speed and logistics,' said Dr Behera. 'Whichever method opens the artery faster is the right one.' Why you must call an ambulance—not drive yourself Dr Behera stresses that calling an ambulance saves precious minutes. 'Paramedics begin treatment en route—oxygen, aspirin, ECG—and alert the hospital in advance. This cuts 'door-to-balloon' time and improves survival rates,' he said. Why people ignore symptoms or delay seeking help Many mistake heart attack symptoms for minor issues like gas, anxiety, or fatigue. Cultural guilt ('I don't want to worry anyone'), work pressure ('just one more email'), and wishful thinking ('this will pass') cause dangerous delays. How to tell if it's a heart attack or harmless pain Doctors say heart attack pain typically presents as: Heavy, squeezing chest discomfort Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back Associated sweating, breathlessness, nausea, or dizziness Pain that doesn't go away with rest or antacids Sudden or gradually increasing discomfort 'When in doubt, do not wait,' said Dr Katheria. 'Seek care immediately.' What high-risk patients and families should do now Dr Behera urges high-risk individuals and families to prepare: Control diabetes, high cholesterol, and blood pressure Learn CPR as a household skill Save emergency numbers on speed dial Identify the nearest cardiac centre Invest in health-monitoring tools if needed 'Each delay of 30 to 45 minutes after the Golden Hour leads to a 1 per cent drop in heart function,' he warned. 'Early treatment can fully restore heart performance and prevent irreversible damage.'
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Business Standard
10-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Love bad news? Why you can't stop doomscrolling and how to break free
Experts explain how doomscrolling triggers anxiety, sleep issues, and chronic stress-and what you can do to break free from compulsive news checking Barkha Mathur New Delhi In a world gripped by uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and public health scares, many of us find ourselves compulsively scrolling through a constant stream of alarming news. This behaviour, known as doomscrolling, has become an epidemic. While it may feel like staying informed, it often leaves us feeling anxious, exhausted, and emotionally overwhelmed. As this digital habit tightens its grip, it's time to ask: how do we break free? According to Dr Gorav Gupta, Senior Psychiatrist at Tulasi Healthcare, Gurugram, doomscrolling is the compulsive consumption of distressing or negative news online—something most of us are guilty of, especially during uncertain times. Dr Gupta explained, 'It's often a maladaptive coping mechanism. People turn to doomscrolling to manage anxiety or to feel in control, but it ironically reinforces fear and stress.' He said that our brains are wired to respond to fear. 'Every scary headline or viral video triggers our threat-detection system, releasing cortisol and dopamine. That dopamine hit gives us a false sense of control, making us want to keep scrolling even though it's emotionally draining.' How does doomscrolling affect your mental and physical health? Dr Gupta warns that over time, this habit can lead to: Heightened anxiety and emotional exhaustion Sleep disturbances Increased risk of depression and burnout Reduced emotional resilience and constant irritability Chronic stress due to disrupted cortisol and dopamine levels And for those already dealing with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), doomscrolling acts like fuel on fire, intensifying symptoms such as hypervigilance, intrusive thoughts, or panic attacks. It can also trigger broader social consequences, such as: A rise in collective anxiety Increased emotional numbness Social withdrawal and reduced civic engagement Public polarisation driven by misinformation Why can't I stop refreshing my feed? 'This stuff is addictive,' said Dr Gupta. He explained that amid conflicts plaguing various parts of the world, including the recent escalation of tension between India and Pakistan, social media platforms like X, YouTube, and Telegram are flooded with dramatic headlines, real-time footage of troop movements, and speculative analyses about the potential for escalation. The result? An endless loop of fear-driven engagement. 'People keep checking for updates because they believe staying informed helps them feel safe,' said Dr Gupta. 'But this behaviour can backfire by increasing stress and a sense of helplessness.' What are expert-recommended ways to stop doomscrolling? Dr Gupta suggested staying informed without being overwhelmed. 'It starts with mindful changes,' he said. He recommended: 'You can also try to be more present and intentional with your scrolling. So when your thumb moves toward that news app out of habit, pause. Ask yourself, is this information helping me or hurting me?' concluded Dr Gupta.
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Business Standard
30-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
France to ban smoking in public spaces where kids are present from July 1
Starting July 1, France will ban smoking in public spaces like parks, beaches, and bus stops to protect children's health; violators may face fines up to 135 euros ($154) Barkha Mathur New Delhi France is saying 'non' to puffing in public where children are around. Starting this July, lighting up a cigarette at the beach or bus stop in France might land you a hefty fine. In a move hailed by health advocates, the French government is set to roll out tough new anti-smoking rules to keep public spaces, especially those frequented by children, smoke-free, according to media reports. Why is France banning smoking in outdoor public places? French Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin explained in an interview published by the regional Ouest-France daily on its website that tobacco 'must disappear where there are children.' She added, 'The decision is rooted in public health, particularly for children. The freedom to smoke stops where children's right to breathe clean air starts.' The restrictions will take effect on July 1 and will cover all outdoor areas where children are likely to be present, including beaches, parks, public gardens, school surroundings, bus stops, and sports venues, she said. According to Santé Publique France (Public Health France), the French national public health agency reporting to the Ministry of Health, about 75,000 people die from tobacco-related complications each year in the country. The government wants to take stronger steps to reduce this number and ensure that children are not exposed to secondhand smoke in open, public areas. Where will smoking be banned under the new rules? Public parks and gardens Beaches School surroundings Sports stadiums and grounds Bus and tram stops The aim is to create tobacco-free zones in all places where children and families gather. What is the penalty for breaking France's new smoking ban? If you're caught smoking in a restricted outdoor area, you could face a fine of up to €135 ($154). French authorities plan to actively enforce the new rules, with signage and public awareness campaigns to support compliance. Are there exceptions to the smoking ban in France? There are two notable exceptions: Café terraces are exempt, meaning adults can still smoke while sipping coffee outside a café Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes or vapes) are not included in this ban, though France is working on tightening vaping regulations soon Do French citizens support the outdoor smoking ban? According to a survey cited by news agency AFP, 62 per cent of French citizens support a ban on smoking in public spaces. That's nearly two out of three people. How widespread is smoking in France today? According to a report by the French Observatory of Drugs and Addictive Behaviours, a non-profit organisation that collects data on drug use and addiction and evaluates public policy, smoking is declining in the country, particularly among teens. It found that daily smoking among 17-year-olds has dropped by nearly 16 percentage points since 2011. However, vaping is becoming more common, with 56.9 per cent of 17-year-olds having tried it at least once. France joins global efforts to tighten tobacco laws France is joining a growing list of countries stepping up their tobacco control measures. Spain recently proposed expanding its own smoking bans to include terraces, university campuses, and open-air nightclubs. The UK is banning all single-use disposable vapes starting June 1 and is debating further restrictions on smoking in public spaces. For more health updates, follow #HealthWithBS
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Business Standard
21-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
New WHO agreement on pandemic response: What's it is and what it will do
With lessons from Covid-19, WHO members back treaty to improve equity, vaccine access, and emergency coordination during future outbreaks Barkha Mathur New Delhi World Health Organization (WHO) member states have adopted a landmark agreement aimed at addressing the gaps exposed during the Covid-19 pandemic. The WHO Pandemic Agreement is designed to ensure faster, fairer and more coordinated global responses during future health emergencies. What is the WHO Pandemic Agreement? The WHO Pandemic Agreement is the first legally binding international accord to comprehensively address pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. Adopted under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution, it promotes data sharing, equitable access to resources and greater cooperation between countries during health crises. The agreement text states that member countries recognise 'that the international spread of disease is a global threat… that calls for the widest possible international and regional collaboration… while reaffirming the principle of the sovereignty of States in addressing public health matters.' What are the goals of the WHO pandemic treaty? The agreement outlines five primary objectives: Ensure equitable access to pandemic-related vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics Strengthen collaboration through data and pathogen sharing Support resilient health systems, especially in low-resource settings Promote knowledge and technology transfer for local production Establish sustainable funding mechanisms for rapid response How will countries benefit from the pandemic agreement? Countries that sign and ratify the agreement will be entitled to: Rapid access to 20 per cent of global pandemic-related health product output — 10 per cent as donations, 10 per cent at affordable prices A Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network (GSCL) for fair resource distribution A coordinated financial mechanism for emergency response from day one of a pandemic Access to shared technologies and production knowledge, especially in developing countries What is the WHO Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing System (PABS)? The Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing System (PABS), still under negotiation, will govern how countries share biological materials and genome sequences and ensure fair return benefits like vaccines and diagnostics. The PABS annex will be finalised for consideration at the 2026 World Health Assembly. The treaty also adopts a 'One Health' approach, acknowledging the link between human, animal and environmental health. What happens next? The agreement is now open for signature and ratification. It will become binding once ratified by 60 countries. Member states are expected to: Begin aligning national laws with the agreement Engage in the development of the PABS annex Support WHO-led efforts to strengthen health systems, particularly in developing nations Consider early ratification to expedite the treaty's entry into force How will the agreement promote equity in vaccine distribution? The agreement directly addresses vaccine inequity, a major issue during the Covid-19 pandemic. Pharmaceutical manufacturers will be required to reserve: 10 per cent of production for WHO-led donations 10 per cent at reduced prices for distribution to low-income nations The agreement also discourages vaccine hoarding and promotes timely and transparent supply allocation to vulnerable populations. What did WHO say about the significance of the treaty? 'The world is safer today thanks to the leadership, collaboration and commitment of our Member States to adopt the historic WHO Pandemic Agreement,' said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in a statement. He added: 'The Agreement is a victory for public health, science and multilateral action. It will ensure we, collectively, can better protect the world from future pandemic threats. It is also a recognition by the international community that our citizens, societies and economies must not be left vulnerable to again suffer losses like those endured during Covid-19.'
