Latest news with #IndraprasthaApolloHospitals
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Gulshan Devaiah eats just 1 meal a day to stay fit at 47: Fat loss and other benefits plus 'challenges' of extreme diet
Birthday boy Gulshan Devaiah eats just once a day to maintain a lean physique and stay healthy. The actor, who turned 47 on May 28, spoke about following the One Meal a Day (OMAD) diet in a June 2024 interview with CNN-News18. Gulshan believes in consuming all his daily calories in one single meal, but admits eating one meal a day can be 'challenging', especially when it comes to nutrient deficiencies. Also read | What is OMAD? Extreme form of intermittent fasting Karan Johar and Shah Rukh Khan follow for toned bodies in their 50s He said, 'Mostly I eat once a day; I say mostly because it's not every day; but I try and be as consistent with it as much as possible. So, I would say 300 out of 365 days I would eat one meal a day. I started it in 2018 as I was finding it very difficult to be consistent with my eating habits because most of us eat more than what is really necessary for us. And then that ends up in some weight gain and some other health problems... I was finding it very difficult to maintain a certain ideal weight and look... it's (OMAD) not for everybody but I think I really like it because I don't really like to be on diets. So this way I'm able to eat foods that I enjoy, but also because I eat mostly once a day, how much will I eat? So it automatically restricts potions.' Asked how he gets in all essential nutrients in just one meal a day, Gulshan said, 'That is a challenge. You have to eat a variety of different types of foods. The one common mistake that I made initially was, when I'm working during the day, I eat my meal after I'm done – so that's almost like half an hour before going to bed. That sometimes would cause me a little bit of acidity in the morning. So, I had to also cut out certain types of foods... I have to keep switching between foods and include different vegetables and fruits and keep changing them seasonally, which I was not very good at doing. So, I would have some deficiencies, vitamin deficiencies, for which I would take vitamin supplements... my D3 is usually on the lower side because I don't consume a lot of dairy products.' In a November 2024 interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rakesh Gupta, senior consultant in internal medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals. said that the one meal a day (OMAD) diet, a form of intermittent fasting, has gained attention for its potential to facilitate rapid weight loss. If you're looking to really lose weight, lose fat, change your body's measurements, and go down a dress size or two, the OMAD diet is a worthy option. But should you consider this extreme form of intermittent fasting, which involves incorporating a long period of fasting (not eating)? First, let's understand what the OMAD diet really is. According to Dr Rakesh Gupta, this approach involves consuming all daily caloric intake in a single meal, typically within a one-hour eating window, while fasting for the remaining 23 hours. He said, 'The diet is believed to create a significant calorie deficit, which can lead to weight loss. Proponents argue that it simplifies meal planning and allows for greater food variety during the single meal.' * Nutritional deficiencies: Consuming only one meal may lead to inadequate intake of essential nutrients, according to Dr Gupta. This can result in deficiencies that affect overall health and well-being. * Increased hunger and cravings: Many followers experience intense hunger throughout the day, which can lead to irritability and difficulty concentrating, Dr Gupta said. This may increase the risk of binge eating during the single meal. * Potential for muscle loss: He added rapid weight loss may not exclusively come from fat; muscle mass can also decrease, negatively impacting metabolism and physical strength. * Mood swings and fatigue: The extreme calorie restriction associated with OMAD can lead to mood fluctuations and fatigue due to unstable blood sugar levels, Dr Gupta said. Long-term sustainability issues: Many individuals find OMAD difficult to maintain over time, with dropout rates reported as high as 65 percent, according to Dr Gupta. The restrictive nature of the diet may not be suitable for everyone. * Rapid weight loss: Many individuals report significant weight loss due to drastic calorie reduction, Dr Gupta said. The diet can lead to fat loss while potentially improving metabolic health markers such as blood sugar levels and inflammation, he added. * Simplicity: With only one meal to prepare and consume, followers often find it easier to manage their eating habits without the need for constant meal planning or calorie counting, said Dr Gupta. * Flexibility in food choices: Unlike many restrictive diets, OMAD does not typically limit food types, allowing individuals to enjoy a wide range of foods during their meal, he added. 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.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Flu-like symptoms reported as Delhi sees rise in Covid cases
NEW DELHI: The national capital witnessed a significant surge in Covid-19 cases, with 104 infections currently reported, showing an increase of 99 cases since May 19. Delhi also has 24 patients recovering during this time. Chief minister Rekha Gupta acknowledged govt's recognition of Covid cases. She confirmed that medical facilities were adequately prepared for any eventuality. The administration has issued the required guidelines. She said the situation remained controlled and requested calmness. Health minister Pankaj Kumar Singh confirmed that the patients who had been examined had typical cold and cough, suggesting no reason for concern. He said the present variant posed no significant risk, and people should maintain composure. Dr Nikhil Modi, senior consultant for respiratory and critical care, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said most infections showed mild symptoms - low-grade fever and cough. Experts noted the virus's progression towards an endemic condition, similar to influenza. Despite current stability, health officials recommend vigilance and adherence to preventive measures to limit spread. Dr Romel Tickoo, director of internal medicine at Max Hospital, Saket, emphasised that people with comorbidities, cancer, diabetes and compromised immune systems must be cautious. These vulnerable groups should consistently wear masks in crowded areas and healthcare facilities. Additionally, people experiencing fever, cough, cold or flu-like symptoms should maintain isolation for a week. While there is no evidence suggesting heightened virulence or increased complications, the strain's immune evasion properties due to mutations mean that vaccination may not prevent infection entirely. However, the population maintains protection through previous infections or vaccinations. Despite the possibility of infection from new strains, the evidence suggests mild outcomes. "Most patients recover within 5 to 7 days through outpatient treatment," he said. Talking about the transmissibility and severity of new subvariants of the LF.7 and NB.1.8.1 variants, Dr Piyush Ranjan, professor in the department of medicine at AIIMS, said: "Both sublineages of the JN.1 variant exhibit enhanced transmissibility compared to earlier Omicron strains.... Evidence suggests the subvariants do not cause more severe disease than other Omicron subvariants." Dr Neeraj Nischal from AIIMS's medicine department said misinformation and anxiety are greater risks than Covid. He cautioned against unverified details.
Hindustan Times
22-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Frequent use of painkillers to extreme diets: Doctor reveals 10 toxic foods and habits that secretly harm your liver
Alcohol can have damaging effects on your liver. You're more at risk of developing alcoholic liver disease. But if you consume heavy amounts of sugary foods and drinks or frequently use painkillers, it can slowly – and often silently – wear down your liver function. Also read | Stress affecting liver health? Yoga expert shares 4 breathing techniques to boost natural detox In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Kanika Narang, HOD and deputy manager of the dietetics department at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, shared a list of 10 common culprits you may not suspect but are actually harming your liver. She also shared the smart, health-conscious swaps you can make to keep your liver thriving. 'The liver is often overshadowed by the heart and brain in conversations about health, yet it plays a vital role in over 500 functions - detoxifying blood, metabolising nutrients, and regulating hormones. But even this powerhouse has its limits. Daily dietary choices and lifestyle habits can slowly and often silently wear down liver function,' she said. She added, 'The liver is remarkably resilient, but it's not invincible. Chronic damage often goes unnoticed until the condition becomes severe. Protecting this vital organ doesn't require radical change – just mindful eating, active living, and avoiding unnecessary chemical stressors. Small changes can lead to monumental benefits. Give your liver the care it deserves – ditch the hidden toxins and choose nourishment over neglect.' According to Kanika Narang, here's what you need to know to make better choices for your liver: ⦿ Why it's toxic: The liver metabolises alcohol, but chronic intake leads to fat buildup, inflammation (alcoholic hepatitis), and ultimately, irreversible damage in the form of cirrhosis. ⦿ Better choice: Stick to no more than 1-2 drinks per week, or opt for liver-friendly beverages like beetroot juice or turmeric lattes, known for their antioxidant properties. ⦿ Why it's toxic: High fructose intake - common in sodas, candies, and desserts - is strongly linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), even in people with normal body weight. ⦿ Better choice: Satisfy your sweet tooth with fibre-rich fruits such as apples, berries, or citrus fruits, which support liver function while curbing sugar spikes. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Deep-fried snacks, chips, and packaged fast foods are packed with trans fats and preservatives that promote fat accumulation in the liver. ⦿ Better choice: Choose oven-baked, steamed, or grilled meals made with healthy fats like olive or avocado oil. ⦿ Why it's toxic: A sodium-heavy diet contributes to fluid retention and elevated blood pressure, placing indirect strain on liver circulation and function. ⦿ Better choice: Enhance flavour naturally with fresh herbs, garlic, or lemon juice instead of reaching for the salt shaker. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Even moderate overdoses of acetaminophen can cause acute liver injury, especially when combined with alcohol or taken during fasting. ⦿ Better choice: Use only as prescribed, avoid alcohol while medicated, and consider alternatives like physiotherapy or natural anti-inflammatories (e.g., turmeric or omega-3s) for chronic pain. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Diets high in red and processed meats are linked to increased liver fat, insulin resistance, and inflammation. ⦿ Better choice: Replace with plant-based proteins such as lentils, beans, and tofu, or include fatty fish like salmon, which provides anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Some research suggests excessive intake of artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose may negatively impact gut flora and liver fat metabolism. ⦿ Better choice: Use natural alternatives like stevia, raw honey, or jaggery in moderation. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Cigarette smoke introduces harmful chemicals that impair liver detoxification, reduce the efficacy of medications, and accelerate liver disease progression. ⦿ Better choice: The most liver-loving decision? Quit smoking. Even partial cessation leads to significant improvements in liver enzyme levels and metabolic health. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Lack of physical activity is a silent contributor to liver fat buildup and insulin resistance, both precursors to NAFLD. ⦿ Better choice: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity daily – walking, cycling, or yoga all help boost liver circulation and metabolism. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Rapid weight loss triggers a surge of free fatty acids to the liver, which can worsen inflammation and liver damage. ⦿ Better choice: Focus on gradual, sustainable weight loss through balanced eating and consistent physical activity. Aim to lose no more than 0.5-1 kg per week. 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
17-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Cardiac surgeon reveals why controlling high blood pressure is the 1st step to preventing heart failure
May 17 is World Hypertension Day 2025. Did you know that the majority of people with high blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension, show no symptoms? This is why it's often referred to as a silent killer — and why it's so important to learn about the risk factors and when to see a doctor. Also read | 7 hidden signs of high blood pressure you must be aware of In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Varun Bansal, consultant, cardiothoracic and vascular surgery at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, spoke about the link between hypertension and heart failure. He said, 'High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart failure — a chronic condition where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently to meet the body's needs. With heart failure affecting millions globally and carrying significant risks of disability and death, understanding the critical role of blood pressure control in prevention is essential.' According to Dr Bansal, hypertension is directly associated with a much higher risk of developing heart failure. 'Even modest increases in blood pressure can significantly elevate this risk. The relationship is dose-dependent, meaning the higher the blood pressure, the greater the risk. When blood pressure reaches very high levels, the risk of heart failure can be several times higher compared to those with normal readings.' Explaining how high blood pressure strains the heart, Dr Bansal said, 'Chronic high blood pressure forces the heart to work harder to pump blood through stiffened or narrowed arteries. Over time, this extra workload causes the heart muscle to thicken and stiffen, a process called hypertrophy. Eventually, this weakens the heart's ability to contract and relax efficiently.' This structural damage, coupled with the buildup of plaque in blood vessels, sets the stage for heart failure, he added. Dr Bansal said, 'Multiple large-scale studies and meta-analyses have shown that controlling blood pressure is one of the most effective ways to prevent new-onset heart failure,' and added, 'Intensive blood pressure management-lowering systolic blood pressure to below recommended targets has been shown to reduce the risk of heart failure and cardiovascular events significantly compared to less intensive treatment. The risk of major cardiovascular outcomes, including heart failure, is substantially reduced in those who manage their blood pressure well.' Furthermore, Dr Bansal shared that long-term treatment and control of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure have been shown to dramatically decrease the risk of developing heart failure. He said: 'These findings are consistent across different populations and age groups, emphasising the universal benefit of blood pressure management.' Controlling blood pressure is essential for maintaining overall cardiovascular health. Here are some reasons why it should be a priority, according to Dr Bansal: ⦿ Asymptomatic nature: High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so damage can occur silently over years before heart failure develops. Early detection and management are crucial. ⦿ Modifiable risk factor: Unlike many other risk factors for heart failure, blood pressure can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes and medications, making it a practical first target for prevention. ⦿ Downstream benefits: Controlling blood pressure reduces the risk of heart failure and lowers the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications. 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.
Indian Express
24-04-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
As Delhi temperature soars, here's what you should know about heat-related illnesses, symptoms
As Delhi reels under sweltering temperatures, the BJP government this week launched the Heat Action Plan (HAP) 2025 for the Capital. Apart from the measures to ensure the city's preparedness in tackling the soaring temperatures, the HAP also gives details on various heat-related illnesses. According to experts, a range of heat-related illnesses (HRI) can happen when summer peaks as the thermoregulatory system, which maintains the body temperature, becomes overwhelmed due to the inability to dissipate body heat. According to Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, these can range from non-fatal conditions such as heat cramps, exhaustion, rashes, and edema to the more severe and potentially fatal heat stroke. If non-threatening conditions are not addressed on time, they can progress into heat strokes. Here is what Dr Suranjit Chatterjee says on HRIs, symptoms, possible treatment, and staying safe amid heatwaves. Different kinds of heat-related illnesses Heat-related illnesses range from mild to severe and include heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and rhabdomyolysis, which affects muscles. While heat rash occurs when sweat glands become blocked, causing itchy red bumps on the skin; heat cramps involve painful muscle spasms due to loss of salt and fluids during intense exercise or heat exposure. Heat exhaustion is more serious and results from prolonged heat exposure, combined with dehydration, leading to symptoms like heavy sweating and weakness. Meanwhile, heat stroke can cause the most damage, where the body's temperature regulation fails, causing a rapid rise in core temperature and potentially life-threatening complications. Rhabdomyolysis is a rare but severe condition involving muscle breakdown triggered by extreme heat and physical exertion. What are the symptoms The symptoms of heat-related illnesses vary depending on the condition. Heat rash presents as itchy and red bumps often found in skin folds. Heat cramps cause painful muscle spasms, accompanied by heavy sweating and fatigue. Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, headache, nausea, and muscle cramps. Heat stroke is characterised by a very high body temperature (above 104°F or 40°C), confusion, hot and dry skin or sometimes absence of sweating, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, and possible loss of consciousness. Rhabdomyolysis symptoms include severe muscle pain, weakness, dark urine, nausea, and confusion, indicating muscle damage and potential kidney problems. Overview of treatment Treatment for heat-related illnesses depends on severity. Heat rash can be managed by keeping the skin cool and dry, wearing loose clothing, and avoiding ointments that block sweat glands. Heat cramps require rest, moving to a cooler environment, gentle stretching, and drinking fluids containing electrolytes. Heat exhaustion treatment involves stopping activity, moving to a cool place, lying down with legs elevated, and drinking plenty of cool fluids; medical attention is necessary if symptoms worsen. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate cooling of the body using ice packs or cool water and urgent medical care; fluids should not be given if the person is unconscious. In case of rhabdomyolysis, prompt hospitalisation for intravenous fluids and monitoring to prevent kidney damage become essential. Prevention over cure Preventing heat-related illnesses during heat waves involves several practical steps. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich fluids, while avoiding alcohol and caffeine that can dehydrate the body. Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing helps the body stay cool. It is advisable to limit outdoor activities to early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower and to take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against sunburn and heat stress. Gradually increasing exposure to heat allows the body to acclimate. Additionally, cooling measures like wet towels or misting can help, and it is important to monitor vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses closely during heat waves.
