Top 5 Reasons Why Your Belly Fat Increases

Most of us dream to have a flat belly or ‘six-pack abs’; but sadly the reality is different, as prominent Indian population has a bulging belly. The biggest reason behind is the sedentary lifestyle which we live owing to numerous demands that surround us, like the 9 hour jobs involving sitting continously at one place, etc. and these end up causing numerous diseases, conditions and also resulting into a bloated belly. Your arms, legs may be in the right shape but, a bloated belly not only damage your personality but also, severely affects your health. Despite of all the consequences it may lead, we still, manage to ignore it until some health problem arise. Moreover, even the fat around our waist is more dangerous than, being overweight. This is mainly because fat which accumulates around your belly can even increase your risk to heart diseases, stroke, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cancer too. Hence, reducing your waistline is the first step towards experiencing healthy living and opting for periodical complete health checkup is the second for early detection of health problems due to bulging belly.  

All of us have belly fat, yes you read it correct. Even the ones with abs have belly fat but, below the permissible limits. Protruding of tummy is commonly found in middle age individuals, especially women who have been pregnant or men with a habit of heavy intake of alcohol. But, beyond understanding the age group with high risk of developing a round middle, it is also important to understand the reasons behind it and what you can do to avoid it! The secret behind reducing excess of belly fat lies out of reach, beneath our abdominal wall, and are known as visceral fats. Surprisingly, it comprises only 10% of total body fat and the rest 90% is subcutaneous fat. Visceral fat covers vital organs like liver, pancreas and intestine in order to act as a cushion for these organs. 

So, now the biggest question in front of you must be exactly what causes this visceral fat to increase beyond the permissible limits. Here are top 5 reasons your belly fat increases: 

1. Diet: 
What you eat, will definitely affect your heartbeat. Strange but very true that, diet alone plays 80% role in maintaining of everyday health. So, eating junk food, foods which are comprised of high fat and sugar is the biggest reason behind your extra belly fat. Hence, high sugar containing foods such as cakes, candies, muffins and flavoured beverages such as soft drinks, sweet tea and artificially sweetener & preservative added juices are a big NO to prevent bloated belly. Also, incorporating lean meats, fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet becomes essential. 

2. Alcohol & Beer belly: 
You must have observed those who consume alcohol frequently tend to have bloated belly. This is because alcohol slows downs your metabolic rate leading to burning of lesser calories. And thus, excess calories from alcohol are stored in the form of belly fats called as ‘beer belly’. 

3. Genes:                                        
Your genes can also be responsible for the bulging belly. One of the factors responsible for increasing the paunch is if it is running in your family. According to family tree your body shape tends to become either apple-shaped or pear-shaped. Most of the men tend to have an apple shaped body type which can be inherited from the parents. 

4. Stress: 
Cortisol is a ‘stress hormone’ which is secreted by the adrenal glands in response to stressful situations. If it is produced in excess due to recurrent stress, it leads to weight gain in the abdominal region. This is mainly because, cortisol hormones sends chemical messages to the brain to store more calories to fight against stress.  

5. Gut Health:
Any imbalance in gut micro flora hampers gut health and indirectly affects the immune system too. Numerous types of bacteria live in our gut, with some being helpful while others being harmful. Any imbalance in these gut micro flora can lead to abdominal fat deposition. 

Now that you are aware of the reasons for increase in your belly fat, ensure to take extra precautions and start implementing remedies to enjoy healthier, happier and a confident life.   

Hepatitis - Know Your Liver’s State Before it’s Too Late!

What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of liver caused by viral infection and mainly include hepatitis A, B, C, D and E viruses. The type of virus infection can be distinguished on basis of their mode of transmission (contaminated water or food), epidemology, presentation, prevention & control. Hepatitis can be very dangerous and can even lead to death when left untreated (majorly in chronic hepatitis state). Our country along with many others throughout the world show presence of many hepatitis related cases and hence proper insight becomes essential. Every year, on 28th July World Hepatitis Day is celebrated in more than 100 countries worldwide; and this day helps us to realise and practice various awareness and preventive measures to combat with this liver bane!

Hepatitis Awareness - Why is it essential? 

Our liver is the most dynamic organ in our body having capability to take in all the toxins which may enter our body through medicines, consumption of alcohol, etc. Infact, it is so efficient that even 10% of its undamaged part can efficiently keep us going! When our liver is attacked with infections like Hepatitis, the symptoms may not be prominent in the beginning. And hence, utmost need to generate awareness about certain types like hepatitis B and C which can become chronic without showing any symptoms is essential. While hepatitis A is the milder version of the disease, hepatitis C and D infections are the most severe and dreaded ones. 

What are the major symptoms to look out for?

Most of the time, there are no noticeable symptoms in the first week of infection; however, in the later stages one may notice -

Feeling of fatigue

Nausea

Abdominal pain

Yellowing of skin or eyes

Unexplained weight loss

Mild fever 

How Is Hepatitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of any condition or disease is the first step in treating it. The good news is appropriate diagnosis of hepatitis can be achieved successfully in order to determine the presence of specific type of hepatitis infection. 

Physical examination:

Here, the doctor will check your abdomen for any tenderness and pain. Also, yellowing of eyes and skin if present, will also be analysed. 

Blood Tests:

Simple blood tests from a reputed diagnostic centre to detect the presence of antibodies against hepatitis virus and antigen to confirm it is important. Also, analyzing the health of the liver can shed light on the condition of the infected individual.

Liver Function Tests (LFT):

A most effective way of determining liver health is by analysing its efficiency in removal of toxins, unwanted proteins and enzymes from the blood. LFT includes determination of various enzymes that are produced by the liver. Hence, if the levels of its enzyme shoot up, it will indicate that the liver is damaged or stressed. 

Viral Antibody Testing:

Viral antibody testing is carried out in order to identify the type of hepatitis virus which is present. This is important, as it will aid selecting accurate treatment plan for the type.

Prevent hepatitis and save the trouble!

Here are few tips to protect our liver health: 

Avoid alcohol in order decrease the chances of damage to liver significantly

Drink only safe water tested from certified water testing laboratory as contaminated water is a major source for hepatitis infection spread

Avoid consumption of seafood which partially cooked as there are chances that viruses are not completed destroyed in such foods.

Consume only properly cooked food

Wash fruits and vegetables that eaten raw thoroughly using clean water  

Wash your hands with disinfectant or soap before consuming any food

Wash all your vessels and cloths in hot water using soap; also dry clothes in sunlight as it helps in killing germs and avoiding chances of any type of infections 

Do not use toothbrush, scissors, nail files, razors and needles which are already used.  

Avoid direct contact with wounds of infected individuals

Undergo routine preventive health checkup to detect any abnormalities if present

If you have any travel plans to countries where hepatitis is widespread, ensure to get yourself vaccinated

Be it hepatitis or any other infectious disease, proper awareness in knowing how to prevent it and adequate diagnosis on right time ensures adequate protection from them. On this World Hepatitis Day ensure you are aware how to keep yourself and your loved ones safe and protected from hepatitis!

Corporate Wellness : Invest in your Employee’s ‘Health’

In our day to day life we are so busy balancing everything from office, home and socializing with friends that we often end up ignoring our health. Somehow we try to put some efforts like jogging, exercising and engaging into a sport and make them a part of our routine but does it really happen?. What if we take efforts to maintain our wellness at workplace since, we spend majority of our time there. Just imaging, if you could spare a little time daily for your wellness at work then, you need not worry about dedicating an extra hour for workout. A lot of time could be saved and efficiency of your performance will automatically improve. 

Nowadays, many companies do organize corporate camps offering their employees preventive health checkup packages at discounted rates, helping them monitor their health and well being, indirectly ensuring increased productivity levels. Such practices of creating awareness about their health is beneficial for both employer and the employees. Due to this, popularity of employee fitness and wellness programs has shown tremendous rise. 

1st to 5th July is celebrated as ’Corporate Wellness’ Week so, grab this opportunity to lower your business costs by investing in your staff. If you need some ideas to promote employee wellness, here are a few innovative ways in which you can conduct corporate health and wellness programs. 

Social Networking : Believe it or not but social media plays a crucial role in engaging people these days. You can send them invites for attending health checkups camp or any special offers or packages you have for them. This can also be useful to create curiosity and spread awareness about the benefits of health checkup so that maximum employees become aware of it and attend the event. You can also conduct social media contests within the  organization on how crucial a preventive health check can be for every individual working for long hours continuously and can give away free preventive health services to winners. 

Technology : These days most companies have their own App offering a range of activities and services from logging in to booking food for canteen. One can also promote health care services with special discounts through their company App for their employees, Company website can be used to advertise along with different channels within the organization to engage maximum employees. 

Creativity : Come up with a unique strategy to promote and successfully run any healthcare initiatives in your company. While planing, keep in mind few short term and long term goals for the employee and the employer. If your purpose is to cater the healthcare needs based on any current widespread disease that is trending in the news then, chances are that maximum people may turn up for the event. 

Awareness : Only health checkup won’t be sufficient to maintain your employee wellness but it will have a cumulative effect due to their awareness about health problems, communication regarding them and encourage them to engage in some form of physical activity or even ‘Yoga’ in corporate. Conducting motivational health sessions addressing deleterious habits such as smoking, drinking, etc and encouraging them to quit could be life-changing for your employees. A lot of the simple issues and problems relating to improper postures and its effects for employees who are sedentary for long periods, can be solved by promoting ergonomics in office. 

So, irrespective of the brand, field or work flow of company, emphasis should be on health and wellness of every individual as, healthier the employee gets, wealthier the company will be.

Snoring and lack of sleep may reduce your chances of survival from Breast Cancer!

Yet again women are threatened to strive, not from social stigma, patriarchal society or the burden of procreation, but from the global disease - Breast cancer! A new trend of this cancer is setting in gradually among the women of 30’s and 40’s, threatening their life at an early stage. Also, the number of incidences of breast cancer are growing exponentially world over; however, awareness or screening which is the most important factor for survival of these patients, is failing terribly. Lately, the shocking sleep studies have revealed, how poor sleep negatively affects inflammatory pathways, speeding up tumor growth and deteriorates cancer prognosis!

An unusual sound made due to obstructed air while breathing (in the sleep) is ‘snoring’, which is a strong factor for sleep deprivation according to the research fraternity. Biologically speaking, sleep is a condition wherein the body is at rest and exhibits a state of mind characterized by alternate REM (rapid eye movement) and non-REM sleep cycles with altered consciousness, inhibited sensory activity, voluntary muscles and no/reduced interactions with surroundings. Sleep is known to rejuvenate the body and mind, and a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of sleep recommended in humans maintains the overall mental and physical health. However, deteriorating sleep habits and disorders are just around the corner that not only reduce the quality of life, but also increase the threat for cancer. 

‘Unlike so many things that can impact cancer risk and cancer prognosis, sleep is something that an individual can potentially control,’ says Amanda Phipps from the University of Washington, suggesting a link between poor sleep quality, short sleep duration and increased cancer risk. Phipps’s research was based on assessing the impact of sleep characteristics on women with breast cancer; the verdict being an eye-opening comparative studies wherein women with less than 6 hours of sleep each night and snoring more than 5 nights a week, were atleast twice more likely to die from the disease. These results were unaltered keeping in account the number of factors such as cancer site, smoking status, marital status and physical activity status.

As the number of people affected with breast cancer increases, so does the need for its awareness and early cancer detection screening techniques. Apart from opting for early detection of abnormalities in the body, healthy, sufficient sleep is essential for individual well-being. Dr. Nathaniel Watson, president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine rightly says, ‘All adults should make it on of their top health priorities to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night.’

‘Its proven yet again, that a ‘good’ night’s sleep can shoo away many impending health threats!’

Common cold in kids can cause Diabetes, too!

With monsoon around the corner, sneezes and sniffles will be heard everywhere! The culprit responsible is one of the most common infectious diseases of mankind, which  affects anyone and everyone, whether a baby or an adult. Yes, known to be caused by more than 200 viruses which change frequently overtime, “Common cold” continues to be unbeatable with no known cure till date.

When common cold strikes, adults or teenagers soothe their sore throats with hot water gargling, steam inhalation, intake of hot beverages and soups, and in case the cold gets severe, doctors prescribe cough syrups and medications to relieve the symptoms. The cold doesn’t spare newborns too, and is much difficult to manage and ease the discomfort felt by the little ones as their immune system is still developing. Babies can’t blow their noses therefore usually become uncomfortable with mucus, snuffling, irritability, fever, appetite loss, etc. As heartbreaking as it’s to watch a little one suffering terribly from just a minor cold, other than severe fever and weakness, adding up to the list of adversities faced due to common cold, is the sweet killer disease- Diabetes.

As per the recent research studies, a newborn suffering from common cold in the first few years of their lives are more prone to acquire Type-1 diabetes later in life. Common respiratory infections caused by either the most common group of viruses, Rhinoviruses or due to the second leading causal organism of cold-like symptoms, Enteroviruses, are on radar for research as candidate agents for diabetes triggers! 

Cold - Environmental trigger for Diabetes!

Various studies have indicated that these cold viruses directly affect the insulin-producing beta cells in pancreatic islets of the pancreas or induce an inflammation via production of cytokines that damage those cells. They can also activate auto-reactive T cells by molecular mimicry or bystander mechanisms, thus eventually developing islet autoimmunity, which later on fuels diabetes in adulthood. Since the early immune system of children in the first 6 to 12 months of life is more vulnerable to challenges posed by infectious agents, it has been observed notably, that various instances of concurrent enteroviral infections in this age group causes high islet autoimmunity later.

Common cold is inevitable, and a newborn will be definitely more susceptible to respiratory infections too early in life. Vital antibodies mainly from the mother’s milk build their bodies to fight through these ailments and grow stronger. Neglecting her own well-being, being ignorant to signs of any underlying diseases/disorders, and compromising good hygiene, proper sanitation, and healthy diet definitely puts a mother at risk of acquiring infections, which may cost her baby’s health too. Post-delivery, preventive healthcare testing should be a necessity for mothers with signs of any illness/weakness.

‘The uncommon reality of a most common illness, pleading for a cure since ages; therefore take care of yourself to eventually take care of your newborn!’

Do Bread, Pizza, Burger contain cancer causing chemicals?!

Being an Indian has got absolutely nothing to do with our cravings of bread butter and toast for breakfast! Sandwiches, burgers and pizzas have now entered our daily food habits, so much so that calling bread our staple food wont be a falsifying statement. Any extreme case scenario brings a unforeseen outcome and thus sadly speaking so is this new fad for buns and bread, as it brings in the terror of 2B carcinogens (potassium bromate and iodate) that can cause serious cancer threats!

Bread - the New Age staple food!
Neolithic age (New Stone Age) brought about the spread of agriculture, with which came along the accidental making of bread; it then became the most important aspect of food and sustenance, competing with all the other variety of foods and yet managing to be the essential of our diet and our psyche. Recent years have brought drastic changes in the variety of packaged breads; with the choices of white bread, pav, buns and pizza breads growing, our palate and demand for it too is prospering! 

In India, less spoken issue up till now, is the use of certain chemicals for manufacturing bread that question health and safety; with an emerging renal and thyroid tumour incidences. A research study from New Delhi regarding health concerns taken up by Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) implied 84% of bread and bakery samples (collected from New Delhi) with residues of Potassium Bromate and/or Potassium Iodate, the cancer-causing chemicals.

Carcinogens - their looming threat!
It was in 1999 when Potassium Bromate was classified as a possible carcinogen to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC); this genotoxic carcinogen, earlier used as a flour treatment agent, was banned in most of the countries (India being an exception) foreseeing its cruelty. In case of ideal baking conditions, Bromate converts into a harmless Bromide, which does not seem to happen practically and thus the study showing presence of the 2B carcinogen residues in the packaged bread sold in India is the talk of the town!  

Most of the famous food outlets strongly deny the accusation made in the CSE report, stating their top most priority to be customer safety and health for which they follow the best international standards. How much ever convincing this might sound, it does not diminish our apprehensive thoughts, making us nothing but the seekers for knowledge and reality. Taking preventive approach a cancer screening for carcinogens perhaps can help one detect, monitor and manage the terrifying cancerous menace. 

Let’s hope saying goodbye to Bread is not the only outcome to abate these carcinogens!

Know Your Thyroid!

Today is celebrated as ‘Thyroid Day’ in many parts of the world, and here’s what you need to know about your “Thyroid Gland” a tiny butterfly shaped organ that rests in the front and at the base of your neck.

The thyroid gland is one of the largest endocrine organs (organs that secrete hormones) that produces hormones responsible supporting the numerous activities that are carried out by you to stay healthy and fine!

What are the hormones produced by the Thyroid gland?

The thyroid gland produces two important hormones namely - Triiodothyronine (T3 hormone) and Thyroxine (T4 hormone). The production and regulation of their level is very well-managed by yet another hormone called Thyroid stimulating Hormone (TSH) which is produced by the ‘Master gland’, the “Pituitary gland”.

What are your thyroid hormones responsible for?

Your thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating and managing your -

-  Heart rate

-  Body weight

-  Cholesterol levels

-  Body temperature

-  Menstrual cycles in females

-  Muscle strength

-  Nervous system and many more...

Are there any conditions or disorders that can affect your thyroid gland?

Yes! Your thyroid hormones can fluctuate to extremes and can give rise to two important conditions; these two conditions are Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism.

When your thyroid gland fails to produce enough levels of its hormones is termed as Hypothyroidism. If you are suffering from this low level of thyroid hormone condition, it will be quite visible in your body activities such as,

-  Weight gain

-  Tingling in the fingers

-  Constipation

-  Low heart rate

-  Loss of hair

-  Memory problems

-  Infertility, miscarriages, etc.

When your thyroid gland fails to control and regulate the production of its hormones it gives rise to Hyperthyroidism. This condition can give rise to,

- Increased heart rate

- Nervousness & irritability

- Trembling hands & breathlessness

- Scanty or complete absence of menses in females

- Weight loss & weakness, etc.

What is Goiter?

It is the enlargement of the thyroid gland and is caused due to deficiency of iodine, an important element responsible for thyroid hormone production. Presence of goiter can give rise to either of the conditions i.e. Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism.

Can your thyroid gland be affected with Cancer?

Yes, it is one of the most uncommon types of cancers and well manageable at its early stages. It initially starts in the thyroid gland itself and presents itself in the form of nodules or lumps that can be felt in the gland. The cancer is quiet non-invasive and majority of the treatment strategies work well. In extreme cases, total removal of the thyroid gland is also carried out. 

How do I check if my thyroid is working fine?

Test the levels of your thyroid hormones! That’s a best way to analyse if the gland is working all fine. Besides that, physical evaluation of the gland for detecting presence of any nodules or lumps is yet another way to evaluate its health.

So this Thyroid Day ensure to get yourself tested and keep thyroid disorders away!

Health advantages of living in Green Spaces!

Greens are attractive eye catchers! To be precise they are naturally occurring scenic beauty comforters that sooth our mind; and no matter how much our newly acquired lifestyle mesmerizes us, the connectivity we experience with the natural creation is inexplicable. 

To speak in terms of science, research on longer healthy lives imposes health improvement in people associated with vegetation or greens near their homes; which is quiet a worthy thought in our dooming lifestyle scenario, where a mere preventive healthcare checkup takes a back seat! 

Man and nature - the inseparable! 

An inseparable connection between human and nature comes from a very long route of evolution. Nature and diversity own mysterious ways to attract us, quiet emphatically speaking the rich diversity of shapes, colors and life that dwells on earth that are universally appreciated. 

There were times when people lived in close contact with nature experiencing spiritual admiration along with widespread affiliation towards natural phenomena. However, divergence from nature occurred with parallel development of technological era bringing about fundamental changes in human interaction with nature. 

Nature is the ultimate Nurture

Research has gone to an extent where links between mental health and aesthetics of nature expresses our dependence on green spaces. Studies by National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) also talk about women living longer if surrounded by greenness near homes, lowering their death rate up to 12% as compared to women with lowest levels of vegetation near homes. 

Greens - their effect on body and mind

Most of us are oblivious to the influence colors have on activities and responses in our day-to-day life. Such is the profundity of colors that harmonises the body, mind and emotions; maintaining the balance between them; and naturally speaking green is the color of balance, considered as the restful color to human eyes needing least adjustment for perseverance. 

The color not only boosts self-esteem and provides motivation, but also spreads a positive effect on physical as well as mental being. Enriching health through green exercise(physical exercise in natural environment), alleviating stress, promoting optimism are just the add-ons of this color, expressing longevity in humans. 

Psychological studies aid in understanding human behavior making them the trending studies of the age. Use of colors as the powerful tool has opened the knowledge gates of greens and their effect on mind and body, some physiological effects include

• Green color stimulates activity of pituitary gland
• Induces increase in histamine levels thereby helping in dilatation of blood vessels 
• Relaxes the muscles 
• Helps in deeper and slow breathing facilitating increased oxygenation
• Good for the heart
• Has a positive effect on blood pressure
• Aids in faster healing of the wounds

Pablo Picasso put it aptly, ‘Colors, like features, follow the changes of the emotions.’ We cannot deny nature’s role being an essential factor for survival; and Biophilia, a suggested hypothesis by the American biologist Edward O. Wilson, proves to be a popularized truthful fact, wherein human bonding with living aspects of nature is propounded. Also, the more people are outdoorsy and nature loving, the lesser stress they inflict on themselves; need not talk much about the improved mental health, well being for children and young adults, along with reduced violence and aggression etc., just with an increased area of green spaces in the vicinity! 

It is high time we accept our connection with environment, there is a reason why aesthetics are given importance in today’s lifestyle. That soothing patch of green in the crazy hectic life we live in will only help us breathe better; because ultimately it is these green spaces that oxygenate the surroundings! 

Here’s how Vitamin D will benefit you!

Expose yourself to the early morning sun for 10 minutes for strong and healthy bones! - very relatable health advice of most doctors these days. Vitamin D, not a foreign term for the masses subjected to numerous advertisements rolling every now or then on television channels or radios, on health drinks and dietary supplements for all age groups promoting strong teeth and bones. Vitamin D, a very crucial fat-soluble nutrient required in small amounts, is immensely vital to maintain our overall health. Often its importance is underrated until a medical condition strikes with varied symptoms like excessive hair loss, acne, joint pain, severe hormonal problems, etc. at first, which are later diagnosed as a manifestation of irregular vitamin D levels. 

Yes, this single vitamin is not only responsible for keeping bone health, but also plays an indispensable role in sustaining the normal functioning of nerves, muscles, internal organs like heart, etc. Such an essential nutrient but can only be obtained from selective foods like fishes, eggs, or fortified products like cereals. Well, worry not for our bodies harbour a unique ability to endogenously synthesise its adequate levels upon sunlight exposure.

Vitamin D- Vital for survival

• Calcium, when acquired from foods or supplements doesn’t get absorbed on its own and needs vitamin D particularly for its absorption in body.

• It maintains adequate serum calcium and phosphate concentrations for normal mineralisation of bones, bone growth as well as for bone remodeling.

• Apart from maintaining body’s temperature, it increases muscle strength and reduces loss of muscle mass significantly.

• Be it colorectal cancer or breast cancer, an optimal vitamin D serum levels are known to boost our immune system to ward-off tumours, reduce inflammation, thus delaying disease progression. 

• It lowers the risk of anemia by boosting hemoglobin levels and is associated with production of red blood cells through an yet-to-be understood mechanism. 

• It modulates cell growth, inflammation reduction, nerve signaling, immune system functions and regulates genes involved in cell proliferation and differentiation.

• B-complex vitamins known to foster deep sleep are also produced by intestinal bacteria which require vitamin D to thrive, thus low vitamin D levels can goof up your sleep.

Current research has shown that low vitamin D levels can cause high blood pressure, depression and activate genes linked to various autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, Type-2 diabetes, etc. Abnormally excessive levels of vitamin D build up for prolonged periods or its sudden overdose may lead to kidney stones or kidney damage.

Having knowledge of your current vitamin D levels prior to onset of even the symptoms of any disease paves a way towards keeping one’s well-being. Go for a preventive healthcare checkup today to know your existing serum vitamin D levels and if irregularities persist, depending on its severity seek medical help to correct them. Till then, bask in the morning sun and ‘brighten’ up your vitamin D levels while the sun is shining!

For more details, visit Thyrocare.com

Creating Awareness about Diabetes Prevention

Who is not aware about this lifestyle inflicted condition? Diabetes mellitus (better known as ‘Diabetes’) has become a common disease of the present generation affecting old and young alike. While we have “Type 1 Diabetes” which is related to less or no production of insulin; there is “Type 2 Diabetes” which is majorly caused due to a resistance developed in the body to utilize insulin for effective management of blood sugar levels. Also, there exists a third type - termed as “Gestational Diabetes”, a condition in pregnant women due to increased levels of blood sugar.

Type 2 Diabetes - A major health concern worldwide

Yes! The rate at which this non-communicable disease is growing, it has become a major health concern around the globe! But how do we cope with it? What is the cause for so many of us to succumb to this ‘sweet-killer’? 
Well, by large, it is our life style to be blamed for! The present generation is more indulgent in fast foods and all that the appears appealing to their ‘taste buds’. This trend has very well contributed in giving rise to obesity which eventually forms a major risk factor towards type 2 Diabetes. 
Again technological advancements aimed at making our lives simple, less labor-intensive and less tedious has got us humans to become completely dependent and less physically active.

How to prevent Diabetes?

More of physical activity
Get into a habit of regular exercise. Physical activity and exercise helps in losing weight and hence lower blood sugar levels. Moreover, regular exercise boosts your immunity which again keeps a tab on your sugar levels.  

Include fibrous foods in diet
Increase the amount of fibrous foods you consume. Fibrous foods take more amount of time in digestion and hence contribute in lessening the chances of shooting up your blood sugar levels. Also, they keep you full for a longer periods, lessening binge eating habits. Fibrous foods again lower risk of heart diseases and promote weight loss.

Whole grains the best bet!
Have more of whole grains foods in your diet as these aid in reducing risk towards diabetes. Whole grains also help to manage the blood sugar levels; so ensure to look at the label on that bread you buy to check if it made from whole grains.

Lose weight!
Being overweight equally increases your risk towards diabetes. Thus, losing that extra pound will not only decrease your diabetes risk but will also contribute to get you a healthy and fit body!

Make healthier choices
Keeping a check on the carbs and maintain balance of fats, proteins helps efficiently managing your weight and thus decrease diabetes chances. Excluding foods with more unhealthy carbs and white flour and include foods with more of fiber content. Instead of driving, walk that little distance from your home to the supermarket. Lessen intake of fast foods post working hours and go for healthy snacks like boiled sprouts, whole grain biscuits, etc. 

Prevent the ‘sweet-killer’ before it silently creeps into your life. Cause if it does, it will bring many afflictions along...

For more information, visit Thyrocare.com

Can your smartphone detect skin cancer?

Believe it or not, almost every individual is addicted to his or her smartphone these days! Think about it, who can say no to a platform filled with limitless functionality and practical applicability in a compact and portable form in this fast-paced, dynamic life that we live in?! Checking messages, playing games, grabbing information and building contacts are some of the most common to-do’s we achieve using our tiny device. What is more, research studies have gone one step ahead by inventing an uncommon feature in smartphone that detects the appearance of skin cancer! 

Skin being the largest organ of the body, is quite atypically the most neglected one; but when it comes to skin cancer if neglected, can definitely prove to be fatal. Uncontrolled division of cells in the body is the characteristic feature of cancer, and based on the type of cells and cancerous growth they are categorised into various types. This diversity gives us more the reason to worry about its early and accurate diagnosis. 

The University of Texas Health Science Center of Houston (UTHealth) found a way to connect smartphone to detect skin cancer via phone-based microscopy. 

With a 90% detection accuracy as compared to a traditional light microscope, this technology may prove a highly efficient tool in detecting non-melanoma skin cancer. 

Cure for cancer is a tough battle, thus the focus lies on a feasible diagnostic approach for early detection, for example a PET-CT scan! The modern world believes in quick results, and gadgets with their alluring technology might help us acquire faster as well as better answers. This smart phone based microscopy hopefully won’t take long to nestle in a physician’s palm and bridge the gap between detecting this dreadful menace to cure it.

For more information, kindly visit Thyrocare's partner, Nueclear- a diagnostic imaging center.  http://www.nueclear.com/

Want to lose weight? Snack on peanuts.

An hour glass figure for women and muscular fit body for men have become life goals for many these days as just to shed those extra kilos, people go to extremes either by using time saving, fat reduction products on home shopping channels or by strict dieting measures. Well, not everyone has the patience, time or money for these or even for that matter to follow the age-old mantra of regular exercising to reduce weight. 

Today with everything available at your fingertips with a click, its highly unlikely that the general devil-may-care attitude of our Indian populace on weight reduction by exercising daily, will change. Therefore an obese or even slightly overweight person, is generally indifferent to the whole idea of any sort of physical exertion like exercises, yoga or activities like climbing stairs etc. for weight reduction, until a medical condition strikes! An easy way out beating this whole quagmire of lethargy, to even take an initiative to thwart obesity, can be by targeting one’s snacking habit when hunger strikes. Well, eating a food item will reduce weight? Yes, if its peanuts!

What research has to say?

Recent surveys conducted wherein school children under a nutrition intervention that included a snack of peanuts compared to other kids who didn’t receive it, showed a reduced Body Mass Index (BMI-an inexpensive estimate of an individual’s body fat). Peanuts or peanut butter are packed with protein and fiber, thus keeps one satiated for long, aiding in hunger management and curbing unhealthy snacking. Our body spends more energy digesting protein than it does to digest carbs or fats, facilitating an increased ‘metabolic rate’. This accounts for an increased resting energy expenditure by the body, as found in a research study, backing up the weight loss benefits of peanuts. Protein also aids in preventing fluctuations in the blood sugar levels that are responsible for those hunger blows, when the blood sugar levels nosedive. Fiber in the peanuts makes slows down the speed at which the food leaves the stomach by absorbing water and forming a gel-like mass to make you feel full for long. It is also thought to delay the release of the hormone ghrelin, which triggers the feeling of hunger. 

Benefits of peanuts

Peanuts are digested slowly (low-glycaemic index) releasing sugar gradually into the bloodstream, providing long-lasting energy reducing the cravings one experiences. Their property of being a ‘healthy’ snack stems from peanuts being good sources of healthy monounsaturated fats (that lower cholesterol), B vitamins and antioxidants too. Its the ‘high satiety’ value of peanuts that helps you limit your daily portions of food, keeping those ‘extra’ calories in check, thereby helping to reduce weight indirectly. Peanuts have also been implicated to play a role in preventing heart disease, diabetes and many other chronic inflammatory disorders, making them a preferred ‘snack’ handsdown!!

Grabbing a quick burger or coffee to calm those hunger pangs inculcates a habit of skipping or having meals at odd timings due to a feeling of fullness acquired from consumption of sugar and calorie loaded junk foods. Resulting irregular levels of hunger hormones (leptin and ghrelin) affect vital body processes of food absorption and assimilation, due to a slow digestion, thus spiking the insulin levels and food cravings. Body’s metabolism gets disrupted eventually, causing excessive fat accumulation, with elevated levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides, and imbalances in levels of thyroid hormones. 

A regular and timely preventive health checkup can only estimate these levels going haywire well ahead, before obesity fuels any future health conditions like diabetes, etc. Meanwhile, combat obesity or rising weight by munching on the nutrient-dense peanuts, a healthy alternative than a bag of salty chips to keep a growling stomach at bay!

Introducing Our New Android Application - We are just an APP away!

For majority of the population, a smartphone in hand is a solution to everything they need. In this busy world, time is precious, so we have come up with our new “Android Application”, which not only makes booking for tests easy but also helps you stay connected with preventive healthcare at your fingertips. New features of our app will make your experience simpler and easier to book the tests or profiles for yourself and your family members and get access to personalised preventive healthcare as per your convenience.

Features -

1. Ease to search what you are looking for 

Users can easily search for the tests, profiles and packages they are looking for. The ability to find a test by its name or by the disease using the “search” bar makes it more simpler for users to find what they need. 

2. Simplified view for your pick 

The improved user interface lets you select your packages and profiles more conveniently. You can easily navigate through home screen menus - Preventive care, book test or offers and and pick the ones most suited for you.

3. Book a Test on the Go 

If you are in a hurry to book the test you need, use our “Book test” feature which helps you in adding profiles and packages to your cart and proceed for its bookings. 

4. Pay with Trust 

Pay later during sample collection or pay online for your bookings with a “Secured Payment Gateway”, choose the mode of payment as per your convenience with complete confidence and peace of mind. 

5. Tracking Reports anywhere, anytime

Want to track your reports and orders on your own? Now, no assistance is required to track your reports. Our “My reports” feature helps you do it all by yourself, see and download reports whenever you wish by just putting in the order number or the receipt no.

6. Your entire family’s personalised preventive healthcare

You can book a test for your family members too! Just add them to your profile and fill their details! You do not have to fill in the beneficiary details over and over again, saving your valuable time!. 

7. Connect easily to our team

Keeping in mind the most used communication mediums, we have made reaching us easier! With whatsapp, email, call and other social channels we wish to bring solutions for all your needs and queries.

8. Login through your Facebook and Google Account

Not feeling like filling a registration or sign up form? Just use your Google or Facebook login to sign-in to our application for our latest offers on preventive health checkup packages. If you wish to book a profile for yourself , just complete your profile details along with your familial history of the illness and other details.

9. Get Notifications for our latest offers

Be informed of our latest offers and avail them anytime through our app! 

We request you to kindly download and review our new android application for all our features. We are doing our homework to update and upgrade our new application and therefore, your reviews and feedback really matter to us.

Kindly visit playstore and download our new app 

Now, Air Pollution can cause Diabetes, too!

India may be lagging behind World’s developed countries on economic indicators but surely has outsmarted them in global issues like environmental degradation, population explosion and environmental pollution, to name a few. And just when the Indian populace began to understand the gravity of this serious issue; along with the existing health concerns that result upon inhaling polluted air, it is also known to kick off the disease widely perceived as something caused upon excessive intake of sweet foods- Diabetes. 

Diabetes, a group of diseases wherein your blood glucose levels shoot up due to body’s inability to use or produce insulin, a hormone required to maintain the blood glucose levels from going too high or too low. Our understanding on causes of diabetes is limited to lack of physical activity or unhealthy dietary choices, and has remained rather rudimentary on environmental causes of diabetes. Yes, surprising connection indeed but recent reports have revealed that breathing polluted air also increase the risk factors for this sweet-killer epidemic widely prevalent in our country.

The quality of air we breathe has deteriorated so badly that 13 Indian cities including our national capital has been listed in the top 20 most polluted cities in the world. The polluted air we breathe, undoubtedly poses health concerns and its grave impact is seen on an average Indian’s life with decreased life expectancy as compared to those living in non-polluted areas. Such is the impact of rising toxins in air, that a 2012’s Lancet’s study classified air pollution to be the sixth biggest killer in India taking an approximate toll of 66 million annually.

Can the air inhaled affect sugar breakdown metabolism? 

Air not only contains oxygen, but is a mixture of other gases too like nitrogen and CO2, etc. However along with these, polluted air contains toxic elements, particulate matter, and other harmful gases too. When these air pollutants enter our body upon inhalation, they cause low grade inflammation in insulin responsive organs via a chain reaction, which makes it difficult for our body to process blood sugar, thus impairing glucose metabolism. This spikes up the levels of blood sugar, cholesterol, thereby causing insulin resistance due to oxidative stress. The impairment of insulin signaling upon prolonged exposure to polluted air increases the risk of diabetes mellitus significantly. 

Timely intervention prevents further complications!

Air pollution can’t be elevated in a day and requires serious efforts everyday, as its not only the government’s responsibility, but also of the general public who can take little steps on a day-to-day basis to reduce it to save the environment and improve protection of human health. Prior knowledge of the presence as well as the levels of toxic elements in your blood, will not only provide ample time to bring them under control or alleviate them completely, but also aid in preventing future complications like diabetes, cardiometabolic disorders, etc. Air pollution can’t be prevented but the hormone levels it disrupts, and medical conditions it fuels up, can be prevented if irregularities in their individual biomarker levels are known in advance. In this era of smartphones, when preventive healthcare is just at your fingertips, screening for diabetes and toxic elemental profile is just a click away. Remember, the air you breathe can also become the slowest form of poison, so make your health a priority today, get yourself tested!

For more information, visit Thyrocare

Teenage Height and Weight linked to Cancer Risk

Surprised? Well, rightly read! Generally, height and weight are the first two attributes which knowingly or unknowingly, are either monitored or looked upon when we meet or interact with someone. Tall statured people are perceived to be impressive with their heights, making the ones with stunted height usually feel inferior. Also, the prevalent crisis faced by all, especially the current generation - obesity, either fuels up the chances of diseases and disorders in body or worsens the symptoms of any existing ailment. Obesity, an already known factor to increase the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases; along with excessive height, can they be responsible for development of cancers?

Sounds absurd, as how can a widely perceived societal notion of possessing a tall height and providing excessive nutrition for your kids can trigger the onset of a deadly disease with no cure? Scientists claim that excessive height and nutrition during childhood may initiate the development of cancers like Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. 

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma..what is it?

White blood cells or lymphocytes are made in the lymphatic system and being an important part of our immune system, they aid to fight any infiltrative foreign particles or pathogens, be it virus or bacteria; or any impending infection. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a cancer of lymphocytes wherein there is an abnormal growth, division and proliferation of three types of lymphocytes: B and T lymphocytes, and natural killer (NK) cells.

Usually, lymphocytes have a predictable life-cycle where old cells die and new ones are produced to replace them. In Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, old cells don’t die but keep growing and dividing, thereby creating an oversupply of lymphocytes aka ‘fighter’ cells, thus crowding the lymph nodes causing them to swell. Till date, doctors aren’t sure what causes this cancer. It is either indolent or aggressive and has many different types which are diagnosed by varied microscopic appearance and biological characterisations of malignant lymphocytes.

Obesity, Tall Height & Lymphoma: Where’s the link?

A recent study led by Dr. M. Leiba and her team at Israel’s Sheba Medical Center examined the height and weight of 2 million adolescents aged 16 to 19 years from 1967-2011; and 4000 cases of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma were found till 2012 since 1967.

It is estimated that the obese are on a 25% increased risk of acquiring Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma later in life as compared to those with normal weight. Similarly, shorter individuals were seen with 25% reduced risk of developing this condition in future, while the tallest were at 28% increased risk of acquiring the same. Researchers found that obesity and a too tall stature during adolescence affect inflammatory molecules and growth factors that support the development of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. However, an accurate mechanism of how these attributes in childhood transpire this condition requires further detailed research.

Timely diagnosis: A stitch in time saves nine!

Know the levels of biomarkers going haywire because of obesity by seeking timely medical help. Make preventive healthcare a priority today; get yourself tested for the presence or elevation of any cancer marker levels. After all, it goes without saying, an early diagnosis aids in better prognosis and treatment.

For more information, visit http://thyrocare.com/