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NDTV
2 hours ago
- Health
- NDTV
World Milk Day 2025: Untold Benefits Of Milk We All Should Know
Each year on June 1, people around the world celebrate World Milk Day, a global initiative established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations to highlight the importance of milk in our daily diets and honour the contributions of the dairy sector to nutrition, livelihoods, and food security. India, as the world's largest milk producer, plays a vital role in this celebration. While most of us are familiar with the basic health benefits of milk- strong bones, good calcium content, and rich protein levels- there are many untold and lesser-known advantages that deserve attention. Milk: More Than Just a Calcium Booster Milk is a widely consumed superfood in Indian households. While buffalo milk is most commonly used, other types like cow, goat, and even camel milk are also part of many diets. Beyond drinking it plain, people enjoy milk in forms like curd, paneer, cheese, butter, flavoured milk, and ice cream. But did you know that milk's benefits go far beyond what meets the eye? Let's uncover five untold benefits of milk you may not know about, supported by expert insights from Rupali Datta, Consultant Nutritionist. Milk is full of various nutrients. Lesser-Known Benefits Of Milk 1. Natural Stress Reliever and Sleep Booster According to Dr. Rupali Datta, milk contains Tryptophan, an essential amino acid that promotes the production of melatonin, the sleep-regulating hormone. This helps improve sleep cycles, reduce fatigue, and keep us mentally and physically refreshed. "Milk not only helps us relax but also boosts serotonin levels, which improve mood and help reduce stress," she explains. 2. Supports Digestive Health and Reduces Acidity Drinking a glass of cold milk can help neutralise stomach acid and is an effective home remedy for acidity. It soothes the stomach lining and prevents discomfort after spicy meals. Those who aren't sensitive to cold can even enjoy a scoop of ice cream for similar relief. Also Read: What Is The Best Time To Drink Milk According To Ayurveda? 3. Hydrating and Nourishing Though it feels rich and creamy, milk is actually mostly water. The creamy texture comes from its combination of proteins, fats, vitamins, and carbohydrates. This makes milk both nourishing and hydrating, especially beneficial during warmer months or for those with increased fluid needs. 4. Aiding Fat Loss with Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Milk and other dairy products contain Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), a naturally occurring fatty acid that may help reduce body fat and support lean muscle development. Some studies suggest that CLA can also aid in improving metabolic function when combined with regular exercise. 5. A Versatile Health Food If you're lactose-intolerant or exploring plant-based diets, soya milk offers a worthy alternative. Fortified soya milk contains fewer calories, less sugar, and lower saturated fat compared to traditional cow milk, making it ideal for those monitoring their weight or heart health. You can even boost nutrition by mixing soya powder into regular milk for added protein and fibre. How Much Milk is Enough? Rupali Datta recommends 500-600 ml of milk per day for an average adult. This amount helps meet daily calcium and protein needs, supports gut health, and reduces the risk of gastric issues. On this World Milk Day 2025, let's go beyond the basics and appreciate milk for its many hidden benefits. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, in your tea or as curd, milk continues to be a time-tested elixir of health. Its versatility and nutrient profile make it a daily dietary must-have, no matter your age or lifestyle. So raise a glass to milk today- and every day!
NDTV
2 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
5 Delicious Cinnamon Drinks That Are Good For Diabetes Diet
Living with diabetes can be quite challenging as you have to frequently monitor your diet. Certain foods and drinks can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can worsen your condition. Luckily, there are several foods in our kitchen pantry that can help prevent this. Spices, in particular, such as cinnamon (dalchini), are known to work wonders for managing diabetes. According to nutritionist Rupali Datta, cinnamon is enriched with flavonoids, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for diabetics. Below, we'll be sharing five easy cinnamon-based drinks that you can incorporate into your diabetes diet. Take a look! How Does Cinnamon Help With Diabetes? Cinnamon may help manage diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that consuming cinnamon daily significantly reduced fasting blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes. Also Read: 6 Reasons Why You Should Be Drinking Cinnamon Water Daily Here Are 5 Cinnamon-Based Drinks You Must Try To Manage Blood Sugar Level: 1. Cinnamon Water Cinnamon water is known to offer several health benefits, including managing blood sugar levels. It is super easy to make and can be a part of your daily diet. The best time to drink cinnamon water is on an empty stomach or 10-15 mins before any of your meals. Find the full recipe for Cinnamon Water here. 2. Cinnamon Ginger Tea Making cinnamon ginger tea at home is pretty simple. All you have to do is boil water with cinnamon powder. Switch off the flame, then add green tea to it. Close the lid and let it infuse for a few minutes. Strain and enjoy your hot cup of cinnamon ginger tea! Click here for the full recipe for Cinnamon Ginger Tea. 3. Cinnamon Milk If you're a fan of drinking milk, consider adding a bit of cinnamon to it next time. Along with adding a nice flavour to the milk, it will also help keep your blood sugar levels in check. Sip on it before going to bed, and you're sure to have a good night's sleep. Click here for the complete recipe for Cinnamon Milk. 4. Cinnamon Coffee Yes, you can enjoy cinnamon coffee as part of a diabetes-friendly diet. Just add a pinch of cinnamon powder to your coffee while brewing. This spice may help enhance insulin sensitivity and also balance the bitter flavour of caffeine. Give it a try! Find the full recipe for Cinnamon Coffee here. 5. Cinnamon Green Tea Another must-try cinnamon drink is cinnamon green tea. The combination of cinnamon and green tea may help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation and support better blood sugar control. It's a light, soothing drink that fits perfectly into a diabetes-friendly routine. Click here for the complete recipe for Cinnamon Green Tea. Also Read:
NDTV
5 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
How To Use Kalonji Water To Ease Period Cramps Naturally
Let us be honest, periods are not just about handling heavy flow. For many, they bring along that monthly package of cramps, discomfort, and constant tiredness. Period pain is something most women know all too well. Whether it is the dull ache in the lower belly or sharp pains shooting to the back and thighs, it can really throw off your day. While some grab hot water bags and painkillers, others swear by old-school home remedies handed down through generations. One natural remedy gaining attention for menstrual relief is kalonji water, made from nigella seeds. Also known as onion seeds, kalonji has been a staple in Indian kitchens and traditional medicine for ages. It gives off a strong aroma when added to food and turns into a healing brew when used as tea or powder. According to a report in the International Journal of Research and Review, kalonji seeds are used in Ayurveda and folk medicine to improve menstrual flow and ease period pain. Also Read: Diabetes Management: Kalonji Tea May Help Regulate Blood Sugar Level; How To Make It How Kalonji Water Works To Manage Period Pain: Kalonji seeds are loaded with vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. These work together to boost immunity, support gut health, regulate blood sugar, and enhance overall wellness. When it comes to menstrual pain, kalonji water stands out with specific benefits that make it a natural favourite. 1. Reduces Inflammation: Consultant nutritionist Rupali Datta explains that the anti-inflammatory properties in kalonji reduce free radical damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress. This helps relax muscles and ease cramps during periods. The magic lies in thymoquinone, a powerful compound in kalonji. 2. Supports Hormonal Balance: A study in the Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine confirms that thymoquinone behaves like estrogen in the body, helping to regulate hormonal imbalances. These imbalances often trigger cramps and irregular menstrual cycles. 3. Balances Doshas: Ayurveda teaches that kalonji balances the Vata dosha, which controls movement and pain. When Vata is out of balance, it can cause cramping, bloating, and restlessness during menstruation. 4. Cuts Down Bloating and Digestive Issues: Kalonji's carminative effects calm the digestive system. Its anti-inflammatory action supports gut health, easing bloating, gas, and indigestion - common annoyances during periods. 5. Prevents Muscle Spasms: The Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlights kalonji's antispasmodic properties, which explain why it has long been used to manage menstrual cramps and muscle spasms. It helps relax uterine muscles, reducing the severity and length of period pain. Also Read: Ever Heard Of Kalonji Bharta? This Bengali Recipe Is All Things Flavourful Image Credit: iStock How To Make Kalonji Water At Home: Take half a spoon of kalonji seeds and add them to a glass of water. Cover the glass and let it sit overnight. The next morning, boil the water, strain it, and sip slowly. For a bit of sweetness, add some honey if you like. Can You Drink Kalonji Water Every Day? Health experts say kalonji is generally safe to consume daily in moderate amounts. Studies show no harmful effects on the liver, kidneys, or other organs when taken properly. That said, the Journal of Ethnopharmacology warns that too much kalonji or its extracts could cause mild side effects like nausea, stomach upset, or bloating in some people. It is wise to check with a healthcare professional to find the right amount for your body. Remember, moderation is key. Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information. Advertisement About Somdatta Saha Explorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day. For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: Kalonji Water Period Pain Kalonji Water Benefits Show full article Comments
NDTV
5 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
What Happens When You Eat Amla Daily On An Empty Stomach
Amla (Indian gooseberry) has been a staple in Indian kitchens since time immemorial. Whether to make a chutney, an achaar or a refreshing sharbat, we use it for various purposes. And why not? It boasts a wide variety of benefits and adds a nice, sour taste to our food and drinks. Let's just say adding amla to any recipe instantly enhances both its flavour and nutritional value. In fact, if you consume one amla daily on an empty stomach, it can work wonders for your health. From boosting immunity to improving digestion and more, let's discover the amazing benefits it has to offer below: Also Read: Why Amla-Moringa Shot Deserves A Place In Your Morning Ritual Here Are 5 Health Benefits Of Eating Amla Daily: 1. Strengthens Immunity If you're struggling with low immunity, eating 1 amla daily on an empty stomach could be quite beneficial. What makes it so great? It's the presence of vitamin C! According to Ayurveda, vitamin C is key to supporting a healthy immune system. Consuming amla on an empty stomach is beneficial as it helps in better absorption of the vitamin, resulting in stronger immunity. 2. Promotes Better Digestion Eating amla on an empty stomach is excellent for your digestive health. Our consultant nutritionist Rupali Datta explains that amla has a high fibre content and consuming it in the morning can promote bowel movement. This can help flush out toxins from the body, preventing issues like constipation and gas, thus promoting better digestion. 3. Aids In Weight Loss Yes, eating amla on an empty stomach can also aid in weight loss. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), amla is known to trigger metabolism. When consumed in the morning, it allows your body to convert what you eat or drink into energy faster. As a result, you burn more calories throughout the day, resulting in weight loss. 4. Good For Your Skin Have you been doing everything for skincare but still not seeing any results? If so, eating 1 amla daily on an empty stomach may give you the skin you desire. This is because amla is an excellent source of vitamin C, which promotes skin elasticity and contributes to a healthier appearance. Along with vitamin C, amla is also rich in antioxidants, which are essential for skin health. 5. Stronger Hair Since amla is rich in vitamin C, consuming it daily can also be beneficial for your hair. The vitamin helps fight bacteria on the scalp and strengthens hair follicles, resulting in healthy hair. You may also experience less hair fall and issues like dryness. So, start having amla daily if you haven't already, and watch how this small practice transforms your hair. Also Read: Now that you know the incredible benefits of eating amla on an empty stomach, we hope you'll start following this practice soon. Stay fit and healthy!
NDTV
21-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Are 'Microwave-Safe' Containers Actually Safe? Experts Break It Down
Microwave ovens are the unsung heroes of our kitchens. Whether it is reheating last night's butter chicken or steaming a quick bowl of noodles, they have rescued us from many hunger emergencies, even in the middle of the night. And what do we usually toss into the microwave without a second thought? That trusty plastic container with the 'microwave-safe' label slapped on it. But here is the question: Are these containers actually safe for microwave use? It turns out, 'microwave-safe' plastic is not always as safe as it sounds. Surprised? No need to panic yet, we are here to break it down clearly. Also Read: Is It Safe To Heat Food In Microwave? Expert Reveals What Does 'Microwave-Safe' Mean For Plastic Containers? Our kitchens are overflowing with plastic containers proudly flaunting the 'microwave-safe' label. But how many of us have paused to wonder what that label really means? Most of us have not. Health educator Dr Pulkit Kumar sheds some light on this. According to him, the term simply means that the container will not melt or warp when exposed to microwave heat. That is it. It does not guarantee that the plastic will not release harmful chemicals into your food. In fact, Dr Kumar emphasises that this label is often misunderstood. "People assume it means the plastic is completely safe for food contact under heat, but that is not necessarily true. It just means the container can survive the microwave, not that your food will survive the chemicals," he explains. Also Read: 5 Important Tips To Use Microwave Safely Health Risks Of Microwaving Food In Plastic Containers: Most plastic containers may look harmless, but they often contain two sneaky chemicals: phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), which help maintain their shape and flexibility. But these chemicals are anything but harmless when exposed to heat. Clinical nutritionist Rupali Datta explains that both BPA and phthalates are classified as endocrine disruptors. That means they can interfere with the body's hormone system, particularly oestrogen and testosterone. These hormones play a crucial role in reproductive health, and any disruption can lead to serious consequences, especially for children. In fact, the Paediatric Environmental Health Speciality Unit (PEHSU) in the United States has highlighted that these chemicals can affect growth, development, and reproductive function in children. Rupali Datta further points out that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has also raised concerns. According to WHO, microwaving food in plastic containers increases the risk of these chemicals leaching into your food, especially when the food is hot, oily, or acidic. Also Read: Microwave Do's And Don'ts: What Not To Put Inside Is BPA-Free Plastic Safe For Microwaving Food? Absolutely not. According to the Citizen Consumer and Civic Action Group (CAG), many plastic food containers marketed as BPA-free and food-grade still pose serious health risks. This is because manufacturers often replace BPA with other chemicals like bisphenol S (BPS) or bisphenol F (BPF), which are equally harmful. These BPA alternatives can also leach into your food when heated, particularly in a microwave oven. Moreover, CAG stresses that BPA-free plastics can still contain phthalates - another group of endocrine-disrupting chemicals that mess with your hormones. So, while the label might sound reassuring, the reality is far from it: 'BPA-free' does not mean 'chemical-free'. It just means BPA has been swapped for its equally shady alternative. Is Food-Grade Silicone Safe To Use In The Microwave? If you are looking for a safer alternative to plastic in the microwave, food-grade silicone might just be your best bet. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food contact applications, silicone is known for being durable, flexible, and heat-resistant. Unlike plastic, it does not warp or release harmful chemicals when exposed to microwave heat if it is used within recommended temperature limits. That makes it a practical and modern upgrade for your everyday kitchen needs. What Are The Best Containers For Microwave Use? Consultant nutritionist Rupali Datta shares that when it comes to microwaving food safely, glass or ceramic containers are the gold standard. They are sturdy, non-reactive, and do not leach chemicals into your food. But remember, not all glass or ceramic dishware is microwave safe. Some may have metallic trims, glazes, or materials that can crack or spark under heat. So, always check for a 'microwave-safe' label before placing your favourite bowl into the microwave oven. Also Read: Deliciously Dangerous: Why Microwave Popcorn Can Be Terribly Harmful Photo Credit: iStock The Bottom Line Microwave-safe plastic does not mean it is chemical-free. Sure, plastic is convenient, but that could come at the cost of your long-term health. So, the next time you are about to reheat that leftover biryani in a plastic dabba, hit pause and reach for a glass or ceramic bowl. Then microwave your food like a pro. Advertisement About Somdatta Saha Explorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day. For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: Microwave Safe Containers Microwave Oven Plastic Container Show full article Comments
