Month: November 2016

You Should Never Skip Your Breakfast. Here’s why!

We are always in a hurry in the morning to reach our respective destinations, because of which most of us do not get time to eat our breakfast peacefully and we tend to skip it. However, breakfast is an important meal of a day and should not be skipped. Many studies have linked eating breakfast to good health, including better memory and concentration, lowered bad cholesterol levels, etc.

Ideal Breakfast: High in protein and fiber and low in fat and carbohydrates.

Your breakfast should be limited to 400-500 calories. You may include eggs, sprouts, fruits, whole wheat cereals, or bread instead of sausages, refined bread, waffles, fries, junk food and pancakes.

So, what happens when you skip breakfast every day?

  1. Lack of energy – Since breakfast is the first meal of the day after a long night of fasting, skipping it may leave you feeling tired all day long. Breakfast kick-starts your day by giving you enough energy to perform daily functions.
  1. Makes you feel hungry – If you skip breakfast, you’re definitely going to feel hungry before your lunch time and you may end up eating unhealthy snacks which are high in fat and sugar. Eventually, it can contribute to weight-gain.
  1. Your metabolism will drop – Metabolism is defined as the rate at which you burn calories for daily life functions. High metabolic rate would mean faster ability to burn calories. Breakfast boosts up your metabolism, which helps you maintain a healthy weight.
  1. Weight gain – Skipping breakfast could be one of the culprits for your weight-gain. Since not having breakfast slows down your metabolism which ultimately results in an increase in hunger pangs. You may feel fatigued and would not engage much in physical activity.

Therefore, breakfast is an important meal of the day and should not be missed out for a healthy body. Even if you have a schedule that does not allow you a peaceful breakfast, then also go for on-the-go breakfast options like cereal bars, protein shakes or low-fat yogurt.

4 Things About Breast Cancer Every Woman Should Know

4 Things About Breast Cancer Every Woman Should Know

Breast Cancer is the most common cancer among women in India and accounts for 27% of all cancers in women. Lack of awareness is a significant cause for this huge number. However, early detection is a big plus in treating Breast Cancer. Know of some important facts about Breast Cancer here:

Breast Cancer isn’t limited to your breast: It’s actually not true that Breast Cancer is only limited to your breast. A woman’s breast tissue extends up to the armpits and the collarbone. It’s important not to miss these areas during your regular breast self- examination.

A lump in the breast means you have Breast Cancer: Feeling a lump in your breast doesn’t mean that you have Breast Cancer since a lump is not the only sign of breast cancer. However, a lump should also be considered and get clinically tested. Besides lumps, be aware of other symptoms and signs of Breast Cancer like non-stop itching, breast swelling, nipple inversion, redness or nipple discharge.

Mammograms are necessary after you cross 40: American Cancer Society recommends that women with an average risk of Breast Cancer should begin their annual mammogram screening at the age 40. Women with no gene mutation, no personal history, and no family history of Breast Cancer fall under the average risk category. Women with an elevated risk should get an MRI and mammogram done annually.

Breast Cancer is a combination of many diseases:  It’s an old tale that Breast Cancer is a name of one disease. With the help of technology, different types of Breast Cancer have been identified. Breast Cancer is a spectrum of diseases of different biological types. The treatment approach of each type is, however, different.

Early detection is the best protection, which is only possible if women are completely aware about this disease. Let’s put our foot forward in making ourselves more aware about Breast Cancer.

 

Debunking Myths About Prostate Cancer

Debunking Myths About Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer is one of the most common cancers amongst Indian men. Every year, around 15 lakhs cases of Prostate Cancer are reported in India. It is believed that one in seven men is diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime.

Although it occurs in men of age 65 or older, younger men may also get it. It usually doesn’t show any symptom in the early stage and that’s why routine screenings in the form of digital rectal exams (DRE) and prostate-specific androgen (PSA) are important. Here are some common myths about Prostate Cancer which every man should be aware of:

Myth 1: Prostate Cancer is an old man’s disease.

Fact: Though older men are at a greater risk of developing prostate cancer, however around 35% of cases are reported in men less than 65 years of age. Other than age, other risk factors include race, family history, physical health and lifestyle. The chances get doubled if this type of cancer runs in your family. Talking about ethnicity, prostate cancer is more common among men of African-American heritage.

Myth 2: Prostate Cancer requires immediate treatment.

Fact: All cases of prostate cancer don’t require immediate treatment except for the more aggressive ones. If diagnostic results show that the cancer is growing at a very slow pace, the doctor will suggest a treatment called ‘Active Surveillance’. Through the method of active surveillance, cancer will be monitored over a period of time.

Myth 3: Sexual activity increases the risk of prostate cancer.

Fact: It was once believed that high levels of sexual activity may lead to the occurrence of prostate cancer. However, there is no truth in it. According to some studies, men who had frequent ejaculations were at a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. However, the treatment of prostate cancer may hamper your sex life for a period of time, which may last for 4-24 months.

Myth 4: High PSA score means you have prostate cancer.

Fact: A high PSA score doesn’t prove that you have prostate cancer. It may be an indication of an enlarged or inflamed prostate gland. Your PSA score will help the doctor to decide to weather a biopsy is needed which will further confirm the development of prostate cancer.

 

9 Dos and Don’ts for Managing Type 2 Diabetes

With a busy life, it gets difficult to manage Diabetes especially in the case of Type 2 Diabetes. Therefore, it is better to organize a daily schedule which doesn’t let Diabetes become a hindrance in enjoying your life. Here are 9 dos and don’ts to keep you on track with Diabetes.

9 Dos and Don’ts for Managing Type 2 Diabetes

  1. Do check your blood sugar daily: Stay in tune with your body with the help of regular blood sugar checks. Ignorance isn’t bliss when it comes to improving your blood sugar control. Doctors recommend checking the blood sugar level before meals and two hours after meals. Also, checking blood sugar levels after exercising and when you’re in stress is a good habit which helps you know your body’s reaction in a better way.
  1. Do take enough proteins: It’s important to maintain a proper carb-to-protein ratio in every meal. Not taking enough proteins in your diet can lead to elevated blood sugar levels. The American Diabetic Association recommends plant-based proteins such as beans and lentils and animal-based proteins like poultry, fish and eggs.
  1. Do follow-up with your doctor: For a chronic condition like Type 2 Diabetes, it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice. While going to your doctor, take down your daily blood sugar numbers and ask your doubts if you have any.
  1. Don’t abandon carbohydrates: Carbohydrates can be a part of a healthy diet. It’s true that carbohydrates can make your blood sugar rise. However, they are an important part of a nutritious diet. You should include a moderate quantity of good carbs such as whole-grain foods and fruits.
  1. Do treat yourself occasionally: Having Diabetes doesn’t mean that you can’t have your favorite foods. Treating yourself with your favorite chocolate cake occasionally is perfectly fine. Of course, you have to look at the portion of what you’re eating. The key to manage Diabetes is to plan your meals accordingly and choosing healthier options.
  1. Don’t get dehydrated: Being hydrated is important, especially if you’re managing Type 2 Diabetes since water helps in lowering blood sugar level by diluting your blood. It’s convenient to keep a bottle through which you can drink anytime of the day.
  1. Do manage stress: As American Diabetes Association says stress makes your body produce more sugar. Also, when you’re stressed out, you’re more likely to ignore your body. You can manage your stress with the help of some breathing exercises and regular exercises.
  1. Don’t neglect exercise:  Maintaining a healthy weight and managing Diabetes go hand in hand. Regular exercise helps you in lowering blood sugar.
  1. Do commit to no-smoking: Smoking can worsen your Diabetes and creates problems with medication dosages. Smoking also increases certain complications like heart problems, kidney diseases, etc. That’s why; smoking is a big no for a Diabetic person.

Hence, we can conclude that along with necessary medication Diabetes can be managed through dietary intervention and also with regular exercise. Keep a check on your Diabetes with routine checkups. To book an appointment for a checkup, call 011-30611467/432! You can also avail home collection services to get checked at the comfort of your home.

7 Surprising Facts About Cholesterol

The cholesterol numbers of an individual can tell a lot about his health, especially their potential risk for heart diseases. Think you know all about this waxy, fat-like substance found in your cells? Think again! We’re sure you wouldn’t have known these facts about cholesterol ever before.

7 Surprising Facts About Cholesterol

1. It’s impossible to live without cholesterol – We all have cholesterol in our bodies since our birth. It is essential for the proper functioning of our hormones and cells. In fact, it also acts as a building block for the body’s cell. It helps the liver to make acids which are required to process fat.

2. One in three individuals has high cholesterol – High cholesterol is the main culprit of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension. Nowadays the average age of people affected by heart diseases has also reduced. At least 75% of India’s population have abnormal levels of cholesterol. Hence, people in their 20s should get their cholesterol checked regularly.

3. High cholesterol can be hereditary – Genetics is the main influencing factor for high levels of LDL or bad cholesterol. In fact, only 25% of cholesterol is due to diet and other lifestyle factors while 74% of cholesterol is due to genes.

4. Children too can have high cholesterol – Contrary to what most of us think that high cholesterol is an adult issue, children too get affected by it. As suggested by the National Health Institute, kids should get a cholesterol screening starting at the age of 10.

5. Sweating can make your good cholesterol rise – Health experts recommend 30 minutes of exercise daily to fight bad cholesterol. As resulted in a study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine, high-intensity interval training for three weeks was associated with an increase of women’s HDL levels by 21 percent and lowered their triglycerides by 18 percent.

6. High cholesterol is visible – Those reddish-yellowish bumps or patches on your skin (known as Xanthomas in medical terms) are a sign of high cholesterol. They vary in size and can appear anywhere on the body. They are more likely to be seen in older people or those who have diabetes.

7. Women have fluctuating cholesterol levels during their lifetime – Women may experience a roller coaster ride in their cholesterol levels over their lifespan. Pregnant women may have high cholesterol to support baby’s brain development. However, they may come back to normal post-pregnancy. As they age, their LDL level gradually goes up and their HDL levels decline.
It’s important to get your cholesterol checked at regular intervals to take steps for prevention and treatment. Book a test now to know about your HDL (good), LDL (bad) or triglyceride levels. To get hassle-free, lab-like tests at home, call – 011-30611467/432.

5 Signs That Your Heart Could Be In Trouble

Let’s get our facts about heart disease clear. A heart attack doesn’t just happen to older people; one can get it at an age as early as 25. Heart issues can be sudden or there may be cases which can give you signals about your heart’s health. Other than knowing your cholesterol and blood pressure numbers, be on the lookout for one or more of these potential troubles.

5 Signs That Your Heart Could Be In Trouble

  1. Chest pain or soreness: Not everyone gets a heart attack in Bollywood style; clutching your chest and dropping to the floor. Intense pressure and heaviness in your chest could be another sign of underlying cardiovascular disease. As many would relate the sharp pain to the heart attack, however, a heart attack could also be marked by subtle pain in the chest dispersing to shoulder, arm, neck and jaw. Call 911 immediately if you or someone experiences discomfort in the chest even if it is not that sharp.
  2. Shortness of breath: Breathing and functioning of the heart are very closely related. The heart pumps blood throughout the body and also gets oxygen from the lungs. If your heart is unable to pump blood, which happens during a heart attack, you’ll not be able to breathe properly. If you notice any major change in your breathing, it is advised to consult your doctor and get your heart screened.
  3. Lightheadedness: Dizziness or lightheadedness is a common symptom described by women who have suffered from a heart attack. Feeling dizzy could be a result of a blockage in your heart or valve-related issues. It is a serious concern if it is accompanied by palpitation (irregular heartbeats) and should not be ignored.
  4. Fatigue or sleepiness: As reported by some of the heart attack sufferers, they felt extremely tired during the week before the occurrence of a heart attack. Lack of sleep or irregular sleeping patterns are indirectly linked to many cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, if you feel tired all the time and have irregular sleeping patterns, it’s better to find out the real cause behind it.
  5. Symptoms like that of Flu: A lot of people complain of having indigestion and other gastrointestinal issues before getting a heart attack. Moreover, feeling nauseated, experiencing cold for a long time or sweating too much can signal insufficient blood flow. Leaving anything to chance is not a good thing. Therefore, it is better to get tested at the right and at regular intervals. It’s the best way to know about inner health.