Latest news with #KunalSood
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Doctor shares 7 health secrets that can help you manage blood sugar, improve sleep and support heart health
We live in an age where health advice is everywhere, from fitness influencers on social media to wellness blogs that swear by the latest fad diets. But when it comes down to real, science-backed information, there's nothing quite like getting the facts straight from a medical expert. Dr Kunal Sood, MD, Anesthesiology (Pain Medicine), often shares insights related to health and wellness with his Insta family. (Also read: Doctor says 'sugar is your skin's worst enemy': Here's what it does to your face over time ) In his May 28 post, he reveals seven essential health secrets that could change how you approach wellness. Let's break them down. A post shared by Kunal Sood, MD (@doctorsoood) A simple walk after eating can do wonders, it helps lower post-meal blood sugar spikes by moving glucose into your muscles for use as energy. This supplement combo is a game-changer for immunity, bone strength, and quality sleep. Most people are deficient without even realising it, so adding them can make a real difference. Choosing rest over late nights isn't boring, it's smart. Quality sleep regulates hormones, supports glucose metabolism, and sharpens mental clarity. While protein gets all the attention, fibre is just as important. It supports gut health, reduces inflammation, and slows sugar absorption — all crucial for long-term wellness. Fruit juice might seem healthy, but it lacks the fibre that helps blunt sugar spikes and keep you full. Whole fruits are the real heroes here. Using a sauna three times a week is linked to improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and even a lower risk of Alzheimer's. 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
5 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Doctor says your cramps and migraines are not really random: 'They could be signs your body is low on...'
If you've ever blamed that morning stiffness on 'just getting older' or brushed off random cramps and migraines as no big deal, it might be time to look a little deeper. According to Dr Kunal Sood, MD, Anesthesiology, these everyday aches and pains might actually be your body's way of waving a red flag and they're far from random. (Also read: Doctor shares 6 eye care tips to protect your vision during latest COVID-19 surge: 'Avoid unnecessary touching' ) In his May 31 Instagram post, Dr Sood breaks down the hidden signals our bodies send when something's off. 'If you live with pain and can't figure out where it's coming from, here's what most people don't get told,' he writes. He further breaks down what many people miss about pain and why understanding its root cause can be a game-changer for your health. A post shared by Kunal Sood, MD (@doctorsoood) If your joints feel achy and stiff when you wake up but ease up as the day goes on, don't just blame it on wear and tear. 'That pattern points to inflammation, not just getting old,' explains Dr Sood. In conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system tends to become more active overnight, which is why mornings can feel especially rough. Gentle movement helps circulate joint fluid and quiet down those inflammatory signals, which is why you start to feel better after getting out of bed. Think your cramps or migraines are just random? Think again. 'These might actually be signs your body is low on magnesium,' says Dr Sood. Magnesium plays a crucial role in muscle function and nerve signalling. When levels dip, which happens more often than you'd expect, muscles can misfire, leading to cramps. In the brain, low magnesium can destabilise blood vessels, triggering migraines. This is especially common in people who deal with high stress, poor sleep, or who engage in intense workouts. Pain doesn't just hurt, it changes how your brain works. 'Long-term pain can shrink parts of your brain,' Dr Sood explains. MRI studies have shown reduced grey matter in areas responsible for processing pain and regulating emotions. The good news? 'It's reversible.' When pain is managed properly, the brain can start to recover and heal itself. That's a powerful reason to take chronic pain seriously and treat it proactively. Not all pain stems from a visible injury. 'Sometimes, it's how you sit, move, or carry stress,' says Dr Sood. Poor posture or muscle imbalances can compress nerves, leading to symptoms like tingling, burning, or aching, even when there's no clear injury. In many cases, you don't need scans or meds just a closer look at your daily posture and movement habits might do the trick. 'Pain is complex, but it's not random,' Dr Sood concludes. 'The more you understand where it's coming from, the more control you get back.' Whether it's morning stiffness, sudden cramps, or migraines that just won't quit, your body might be trying to tell you something. And listening could be the first step toward real relief. 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
29-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Can ashwagandha cause liver damage? Doctor warns against possible side effects of supplements: 'Risk is higher if...'
Dr Kunal Sood, a physician in anesthesiology and interventional pain medicine, took to Instagram on May 28 to discuss the importance of being mindful of the dosage and potential interactions with food or other medications when taking supplements. Exceeding the recommended dose can increase the risk of adverse effects, he said. Also read | What is ashwagandha and what does it do? Here's all you need to know about the Ayurvedic superfood Dr Sood added that considering the cumulative intake from both supplements and food can be challenging, making it essential to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective use. He said, 'Just like with medications, supplements also have a risk of side effects. The risk is higher if you take more than the recommended dose; sometimes you take a supplement but also obtain from food, which can be hard to estimate.' He also said, 'I always recommend discussing with your doctor before starting a supplement to make sure the benefit outweighs the risk and to make sure you have the correct dosing depending on your medical history. Do you take any supplements?' A post shared by Kunal Sood, MD (@doctorsoood) Dr Sood listed the possible side-effects of the following supplements: ⦿ Magnesium: Diarrhea, muscle weakness ⦿ Turmeric: Blood thinning, stomach pain ⦿ Vitamin D: Kidney stones ⦿ Ashwagandha: Liver damage, increase thyroid hormone ⦿ Fish oil: Increase blood glucose, blood thinner, acid reflux When considering supplements, it's essential to know that they can interact with medications or worsen underlying health conditions, and taking more than the recommended dose can increase the risk of adverse effects. Therefore, before adding supplements to your routine, consult with a doctor or registered dietitian to discuss potential benefits and risks. 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
27-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Not having dahi or kimchi? Doctor reveals why you must have natural probiotics; shares 4 facts about gut health
Dr Kunal Sood, a physician in anesthesiology and interventional pain medicine, took to Instagram on May 26 to share a list of foods that can support gut health, boost immunity, and potentially alleviate symptoms of certain digestive disorders. Also read | Should you eat traditional Indian dahi or Greek yoghurt? Dietician shares which is better for vegetarians According to him, incorporating fermented foods into your diet – from Kimchi, Korean fermented vegetable dish containing probiotics to curd (dahi) or yoghurt that contains live cultures of beneficial bacteria – can be a delicious way to promote overall well-being. Dr Sood said, 'Your gut is home to trillions of microbes — and the choices you make every day shape how well they work for you.' He went on to list four things you should know to maintain good gut health: A post shared by Kunal Sood, MD (@doctorsoood) Dr Sood said: 'Sweeteners like sucralose and saccharin have been shown to disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, sometimes reducing diversity or promoting glucose intolerance. Not everyone is affected the same way, but it's something to watch if you're using them daily.' 'Yoghurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut deliver live cultures that can support microbial diversity, ease digestion, and even help reduce gut inflammation. They're a powerful complement to a fibre-rich diet,' Dr Sood said. He added, 'Soluble fibre from foods like avocados and chia seeds fuel beneficial bacteria increases short-chain fatty acids (like butyrate), and supports gut barrier integrity. More fiber = more resilience.' Dr Sood said, 'Going less than 3 times per week and straining or passing hard, dry stools fits the clinical criteria. If you're always pushing, or things feel incomplete, your gut might be telling you something.' 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
26-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Fart walk is more than just an internet meme: Doctor shares 2 benefits of post-meal strolls
The urge to hit the sack after a meal is unreal. The sluggish haze post-meal, along with the abdominal tightness from bloating, is very common. But powering through the tiring bloating with a short walk can do wonders for your gut. Even the internet has acknowledged this in its own humorous way. Based on the benefits, internet has cheekily coined the quick post-meal stroll as 'fart walk.' Dr Kunal Sood, an expert in Anesthesiology and Interventional Pain Medicine who regularly shares health tips on Instagram, on 25 May highlighted the effective benefits of a simple post-meal walk. In the video he reacted to a POV video clip of people going out for a 'fart walk.' Dr Sood further broke down the real health benefits behind the simple stroll. A post shared by Kunal Sood, MD (@doctorsoood) Fart walk isn't just a quirky name. Behind this hilariously labelled internet meme which might set off a few laughs, fart walk is a genuine practice that is actually rooted in true digestive benefits. Dr Sood explained, 'The fart walk is the internet's new name for something with a lot more science behind it. A short walk after a meal, just 10 to 15 minutes, can help you move gas through the digestive system, reducing bloating and preventing constipation. It works by stimulating peristalsis, which is the natural movement of the intestines that pushes food and gas along.' The perks of the fart walk go beyond just its namesake, easing built-up gas. A 10 to 15-minute walk might seem trivial because of its short duration, but it can also help manage blood sugar levels effectively. Dr Sood further elaborated on how walking manages blood sugar. He said, 'But that's not all post-meal walks also improve blood sugar control, especially for people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. That's because muscle contractions during walking help your cells absorb glucose without needing extra insulin. Some studies even show better weight management and lower blood pressure with regular post meal walks so whether it is to ease digestion or manage blood sugar, a 'fart walk' is a simple low effort habit with real health benefits.' The fart walk benefits you both in the short term, by helping release built-up gas and easing bloating, and in the long term by managing blood sugar for better health. Next time, after your heavy dinner, resist the urge to flop down and roll over to bed. Go for a 'fart walk.' It's simple and low effort that helps you with bloating and manages overall health. ALSO READ: Dietician suggests 6 big reasons why you may be experiencing bloating and acidity after every meal 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.
