Latest news with #VidhiChawla
Hindustan Times
15 hours ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
6 reasons why you should try ghee coffee to promote digestion, weight loss and more
Scroll through your phone these days, and you will end up finding a new health trend. One drink that has been getting a lot of buzz lately is ghee coffee. From nutritionists to celebrities, everyone seems to be raving about it, sharing posts about 'ghee coffee' or even 'ghee tea,' calling it an Ayurvedic remedy or something they grew up drinking. But have you tried it yet? If not, maybe it is time! You might be surprised to know that this simple drink could help boost your metabolism, support heart health, and even ease period pain. Find out what makes ghee coffee more than just a trendy beverage. Ghee coffee, also known as bulletproof coffee, is a blend of black coffee and ghee (clarified butter). It is a creamy, rich drink that is often enjoyed in the morning. Ghee adds healthy fats to the coffee, which can provide steady energy, improve focus, and keep you feeling full for longer. It is popular in low-carb and Ayurvedic diets. Here are 6 health benefits of adding ghee in coffee and drinking it every day: Not all fats are bad for you. 'Ghee is rich in healthy fats like omega-3, 6, and 9, and it is a natural source of vitamins A, E, and K. Coffee, on the other hand, is loaded with caffeine, cafestol, kahweol, and chlorogenic acid, all known to support immune health,' says nutritionist Vidhi Chawla. A study published in Trends in Food Science & Technology highlights the benefits of coffee for strengthening the immune system. If you believe that drinking coffee on an empty stomach causes acidity, try black coffee with ghee to get rid of it. Thanks to the butyric acid found in ghee, it can support healthy digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut. Ghee coffee is especially helpful for people who often feel bloated. Combining black coffee with ghee may support heart health. Ghee helps reduce inflammation and balance cholesterol. In fact, a study published in the Ochsner Journal shows that coffee can reduce the risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. Ghee contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may reduce the intensity of menstrual cramps. 'It can also help boost energy and support hormonal balance to support a healthy period cycle,' explains Chawla. Drinking ghee coffee in the morning can help keep hunger and cravings in check. The healthy fats make you feel full longer, so you are less likely to snack unnecessarily. This can support healthy weight management. Coffee is known to give you a quick energy boost. However, the fats in ghee slow down caffeine absorption, giving you steady energy without the crash. A study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition links this sustained release of energy is because of the combination of fats with caffeine. You will feel less lethargic. This bullet coffee or ghee coffee can be enjoyed daily, but make sure you do not overdo it. Ghee is rich in saturated fats, so having too much may lead to weight gain, high cholesterol, or excess calorie intake. 'People with heart conditions or high cholesterol should be especially cautious,' warns Chawla. Also, drinking too many cups of coffee a day can increase your caffeine intake, which might cause digestive discomfort or other issues. So, stick to one or two cups of black coffee with ghee a day. NOTE: Do not over-blend as too much blending will separate the fat. 'For best results, drink ghee coffee in the morning on an empty stomach,' suggests Chawla. This helps kickstart your metabolism, supports digestion, and provides steady energy throughout the day. In fact, it is a great alternative to your sugary drinks like orange juice or tea in the morning.
NDTV
2 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
Psyllium Husk Is Trending As Natural Ozempic. It Is Just Isabgol With A Fancy New Makeover
In an age where wellness trends go viral faster than anything else, it's no surprise that psyllium husk - well known in Indian households as the humble isabgol (especially in the eastern part of India), has found itself rebranded with a sleek new western label. Touted as a "natural Ozempic" across TikTok, Instagram, and wellness blogs, psyllium is having a moment in the West. But let's be clear: this isn't a newly discovered miracle. It's isabgol, the same thing your grandmother or father might have suggested when you complained about constipation. Now that it's being heralded as a "natural weight loss drug", we asked experts if it can help with more than that. What Is Psyllium Husk? Psyllium husk is nothing 'exotic'. It's a fibre-rich substance derived from the seeds of a plant commonly grown in India called psyllium (specific name Plantago ovata). When mixed with water, the husk forms a gel-like substance that adds bulk to stool, eases digestion, and slows down the absorption of nutrients in the gut. Mainly used as a dietary fiber to ease constipation, psyllium husk has been a trusted remedy in the Ayurveda medicine system for over 5,000 years. It's also known in Persian history as isabgol, meaning "horse's ear", in a reference to the shape of its seeds. Similarly, ancient Indian texts refer to it as asvakarna, combining Sanskrit words for "horse" and "ear". Dietician Vidhi Chawla, Founder of FISICO Diet and Aesthetic Clinic, New Delhi, explains, "Psyllium is often referred to as a 'bulk-forming laxative'. This unique property allows it to absorb water in the digestive tract, increasing stool bulk, and making bowel movements softer and easier to pass." So yes, it helps with pooping - but that's not all. Why It's Being Called "Natural Ozempic" Ozempic, a prescription drug originally designed for Type 2 diabetes, has recently gained fame for its powerful appetite-suppressing and weight-loss properties. It works by mimicking a gut hormone (GLP-1) that regulates appetite and insulin levels. Experts say psyllium, on the other hand, does nothing of the sort. Chawla says, "While psyllium husk can contribute to a feeling of fullness and may help reduce overall food intake, it's crucial to understand that it does not work through the same physiological mechanisms as Ozempic. Calling it a 'natural Ozempic' is an overstatement and lacks scientific backing." View this post on Instagram A post shared by 🌈 Laura Strange 🌈 (@myglutenfreeguide) Clinical Dietician and Consultant Nutritionist Kanikka Malhotra from Delhi agrees and adds that calling psyllium husk 'natural Ozempic' is "misleading and oversimplified". "Although both of them are able to help in weight management, they produce their effect in a very different way... The analogy downsizes the issues and problems of managing diabetes and losing weight," she adds. What Psyllium Husk Can Do For You Even though psyllium husk is no Ozmepic, experts like Chawla, Kumat and studies highlight that it has some benefits, like: 1. Constipation Relief Psyllium husk is most famous as a bulk-forming laxative. It absorbs water in the gut, forming a gel that softens stool and makes it easier to pass, providing effective relief from constipation. 2. Diarrhoea Control Psyllium can also absorb excess water in the intestines during episodes of diarrhoea, helping to firm up loose stools. 3. Blood Sugar Control Psyllium husk slows the absorption of glucose in the digestive tract, leading to lower post-meal blood sugar spikes. A 2000 study shows reductions of up to 20% in people with diabetes or prediabetes. 4. LDL Cholesterol Reduction The soluble fibre in psyllium husk binds to bile acids and cholesterol in the gut, reducing their absorption and lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels. Studies report reductions in total cholesterol up to 8.9% and LDL cholesterol up to 13% in people with elevated cholesterol. 5. Appetite Regulation And Weight Management When mixed with water, psyllium husk expands in the stomach, promoting a feeling of fullness and reducing appetite. A May 2023 clinical trial showed that its supplementation can support modest weight loss in overweight and obese individuals, likely by reducing calorie intake through increased satiety. 6. Improved Gut Microbiome It also acts as a mild prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and increasing the abundance of health-promoting genera such as Faecalibacterium and Lachnospira, especially in people with constipation. The Side Effects Of Psyllium Husk For all its benefits, psyllium husk is not without potential problems - especially if not consumed correctly. Malhotra says that it can cause several side effects, particularly when not consumed with adequate water. Common issues include: Bloating Gas Abdominal cramping Nausea "Inadequate fluid intake can lead to intestinal blockage or choking hazards. Some individuals experience allergic reactions, ranging from skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), particularly healthcare workers with occupational exposure," she adds. Malhotra also warns that before consuming this husk, you should keep in mind that it can significantly impact drug interactions. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kirsten Jackson - IBS SIBO and Gut Health Dietitian (@ "Psyllium husk can reduce absorption of medications such as lithium, digoxin, and some antibiotics when taken simultaneously. Individuals with swallowing difficulties, intestinal obstructions, or undiagnosed abdominal pain should avoid psyllium," Malhotra highlights. How To Safely Add Psyllium Husk To Your Diet If you're convinced to give this traditional remedy a shot, here's how to do it right, according to experts: Start with 1 teaspoon (3-5 gm) mixed in a full glass of water (at least 250 ml) Drink immediately before it thickens Gradually increase to 1-2 tablespoons if well tolerated Stay hydrated with 8-10 glasses of water per day Take other medications 1-2 hours before or after psyllium to avoid absorption issues It can be added to smoothies, yoghurt, oatmeal, or soups Kumat says, "Most people benefit from 7-14 gm of psyllium husk per day. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it improves tolerance and minimises digestive discomfort." In A Nutshell Isabgol is a substitute for weight-loss medication, bariatric surgery, or doctor-guided diabetes treatment. But it might also have genuine benefits, if used properly. Finally, remember, Psyllium husk isn't some flashy new discovery. It's a traditional remedy backed by some science, with some mentions in Ayurveda. It went underappreciated for long, until it was rebranded by the West with a glossy label.
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Sit back to savour mindfulness on this Sauntering Day
Celebrated annually, World Sauntering Day (June 19) is a reminder for individuals to step away from hectic schedules and embrace a slower, more deliberate pace. With slow living coming to the forefront, we look at how you can begin this practise right from your plate. Mindful eating is the concept of paying full attention to the experience of consuming food, as well as the internal and external processes.'Eating often becomes an automatic, rushed act, disconnected from our physical sensations and emotional states,' says dietician Vidhi Chawla. According to Vidhi, the disconnect with yourself while eating can prevent your brain from properly registering fullness signals. A rushed pace can also impair digestion, causing bloating and reflux. 'Eating fast is associated with stress and distraction, which causes you to miss out on the sensory experience,' she shares. Eateries are also catching, encouraging customers to slow it down. For instance, Delhi-based DOS has unveiled a breakfast menu inspired by slow mornings. 'Our breakfast experience is intended to provide a more leisurely, purposeful morning, enabling visitors to stop and think before the bustle starts,' says chef and co-founder Jatin Mallick. In Mumbai, actor Shilpa Shetty Kudnra's recently-launched cafe Blondie features a slow bar for hand-brewed coffee. Meanwhile, Hinoki Coffee Bar and Thought Explorers Club are celebrating with slow conversations over slow drinks. 'Events like these are necessary to help enjoy life as is,' says Shivangi, a college student who frequents the eatery. The benefits of eating mindfully: Mindful eating prepares your body to process food and regulates appetite to foster a healthier relationship with food. Mindful eating isn't just about your gut—it directly impacts your mental well-being. 'According to yoga and naturopathy, the gut is the second brain. When we eat with awareness, we reduce stress, improve sleep, and even lower the chances of anxiety and depression,' says Dr Narendra K Shetty, chief wellness officer at Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga. Slowing down eating activates the parasympathetic system, which is responsible to help you rest and digest. Mindful eating also helps calm your thoughts, regulate hormones and boosts mood. This also prevents guilt and shame associated with emotional or unconscious eating. According to Dr Shetty, in yoga this process is called ahara shuddhi — purity in food and its consumption. What we eat becomes our mind. Eating mindfully isn't just about nutrition but nurturing inner harmony. He suggests beginning small with the following steps: Eat your breakfast in silence without a phone or screen. Chew each bite 20-30 times to aid digestion — your gut will thank you. Take three deep breaths before each meal to reset your nervous system. Place your spoon down between bites to slow down. Eat one meal a day in total silence. Make it sacred. Involve your senses — observe the colour, texture, aroma, and even the sound of food.
Hindustan Times
12-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Facing hair loss due to PCOS? Dietician shares diet, hair care tips to manage hair fall
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is caused by cyst formation in the ovaries, that can lead to acne, obesity, menstrual irregularity and mood swings. Hair loss is one of the effects of PCOS. In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dietitian Vidhi Chawla, founder of Fisico Diet and Aesthetic Clinic said, 'Hair loss, often resembling male-pattern baldness, is a distressing symptom for many. This hair loss, driven by hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated androgens, can be addressed through natural approaches, focusing on internal and external factors.' Also read | PCOS and hair loss: Root causes that we should be aware of; dietitian explains The dietician further recommended these dietary changes to manage PCOS-induced hair loss: Low-Glycemic Index (GI) diet: Prioritise foods with a low GI, such as whole grains, legumes, and non-starchy vegetables. This helps regulate insulin levels, which can influence androgen production. Anti-inflammatory foods: Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (fatty fish, flaxseeds), antioxidants (berries, leafy greens), and anti-inflammatory spices (turmeric, ginger). Protein power: Ensure adequate protein intake to support hair growth. Lean protein sources like chicken, fish, and beans are essential. Limit processed foods: Minimise processed foods, sugary drinks, and refined carbohydrates, which can exacerbate insulin resistance and inflammation. Certain herbs and supplements may help regulate hormones and promote hair growth. Saw palmetto: This herb may help block the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT); a hormone linked to hair loss. Inositol: This supplement can improve insulin sensitivity and regulate hormone levels. Spearmint tea: Spearmint tea may help reduce androgen levels. Biotin: While its effectiveness varies, biotin, a B vitamin, is often recommended for hair health. It is very important to consult with a medical professional before taking biotin, as it can affect lab results. Vitamin D: Since many with PCOS are vitamin D deficient, supplementation might prove helpful. Scalp massages: Regular scalp massages can improve blood circulation to the hair follicles, potentially stimulating hair growth. Gentle hair care: Avoid harsh chemicals, excessive heat styling, and tight hairstyles that can damage hair. Also read | Fitness experts reveal effects of PCOS on skin, hair health Stress reduction techniques: Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances and hair loss. 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.
