HEALTH

From stronger lungs to better immunity: What happens to the body when a person quits smoking

Smoking cigarettes is like a chemical assault on nearly every system in the body. Tobacco smoke carries thousands of toxic compounds, dozens of which are proven cancer-causing agents. Globally, smoking remains the single biggest preventable cause of serious disease; from lung and throat cancer to heart disease, stroke, chronic lung disease and even diabetes. Studies suggest there is no ‘threshold’ below which smoking stops being harmful, and that every additional cigarette compounds long-term damage. A study from the BMJ found that even 1 cigarette a day increases heart disease risk by 48% in men and 57% in women, proving that the harm begins far earlier and at far lower levels than most people realisz.

WHO calls obesity a chronic disease, endorses GLP-1 drugs with behavioural therapy in fresh guidelines

The World Health Organization has issued its first-ever guidelines for the use of GLP-1 drugs to treat obesity. The WHO has called obesity a chronic disease and endorsed the use of these drugs if necessary, however, has recommended behavioural changes for sustained impact.

Fitness coach shares 6 hacks to stay in shape while working a 40+ hour week: 'Choose 3-4 meals'

If you have a hectic job, you may be pushing fitness to the side. But with some practical tips you can balance both.

Red vs white wine: Which is healthier for your heart, according to research

In pubs and dinner tables at home, the debate has long raged; is red wine a heart-healthy indulgence, and is white wine the lightweight compromise? Ask a vintner, a nutritionist or a regular well-meaning senior, and you’ll get a different spin. As we enter another long winter, many pour themselves a glass of wine to unwind, but studies now reveal that the colour of the wine may matter less than how much, how often, and why you drink. Red wine...

Man gets diagnosed with Colon Cancer at 31 with these 6 symptoms; Gastroenterologist explains why you should never ignore them

Recently, a 31-year-old man got diagonsed with Colon Cancer. In an IG post, he listed down his symptoms, and why one must never ignore them, since Colon cancer often starts without pain or obvious trouble

Jaggery vs Jaggery Powder: What to Use for Healthier Winter Nutrition

Jaggery is a superfood for winters. It has a sweet, earthy and warm taste with many health benefits. It keeps the immunity strong during winters which helps in fighting infections and diseases. It also helps in regulating blood pressure and helps in digestion. Jaggery powder and jaggery blocks both are different in textures so the ways to use them is also different. Jaggery powder is usually used more as it is easier to use in everyday life....

Easy fiber foods: Best nuts and seeds to improve digestion, heart health, and daily nutrition

Eating more fiber is important for health, and nuts and seeds are an easy way to get it. Chia, flax, almonds, pistachios, sunflower seeds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds all give fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Just a small serving a day helps digestion, heart health, and keeps you full. Add them to snacks, salads, or smoothies.

Understanding breast carcinoma: Causes, warning signs and when to get tested

Breast carcinoma arises from the epithelial cells of the breast ducts or lobules. It mostly affects women, but may affect men as well. It may be slow-growing and localised, or turn into an aggressive metastatic disease. Early detection and screening has been found to improve the prognosis, and awareness of the same is essential. Age and GenderThe incidence of breast carcinoma increases significantly with age, and women are most commonly affected...

What is scromiting, the disturbing marijuana-linked condition increasing worldwide

Scromiting, or cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), is a rising condition linked to chronic marijuana use, causing severe abdominal pain, uncontrollable vomiting, and intense screaming. Many sufferers report hot showers as temporary relief. First identified in 2004, CHS is increasingly sending regular cannabis users to emergency rooms, requiring hydration, anti-nausea drugs, and monitoring.

Top 8 fruits with the highest fiber content that support gut health

Dietary fiber is one of the most underrated nutrients for overall health. Found predominantly in plant-based foods, fibre helps regulate digestion, manage blood sugar, support heart health, and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. While vegetables, legumes, and whole grains are well-known sources, fruits provide a delicious and convenient way to increase your daily fibre intake.Here are eight fruits that are exceptionally high in fiber:

Health benefits of soaked black raisins (munakka): Prevents cancer, supports heart health, controls high BP, freshens breath, and more

Soaked black raisins, or Munakka, offer a wealth of health benefits, including improved digestion, enhanced vision, and better heart health. Packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients, regular consumption can also help manage acidity, soothe throat irritation, and boost oral hygiene. Enjoying three to four soaked Munakka daily, ideally in the morning, promotes overall vitality.

High cholesterol symptoms in legs at night: Pain, numbness, swelling, and other warning signs you should never ignore

Leg pain, numbness, coldness, swelling, and skin changes, especially at night, can signal high LDL cholesterol. These symptoms indicate reduced blood flow due to arterial plaque buildup, potentially leading to serious heart issues. Early detection through regular monitoring and lifestyle changes is crucial for managing 'bad cholesterol' and protecting your health.

These common foods can help reduce high sodium levels

Sudden pressure and headaches can signal hypertension, but managing sodium and potassium intake is key. Incorporating fruits like bananas and oranges, leafy greens, potatoes, cucumbers, garlic, beets, and low-fat yogurt can naturally help reduce sodium levels and support overall cardiovascular health.

When autoimmune diseases masquerade as allergies: Why early clues are often missed

Routine symptoms like rashes and fatigue, often dismissed as allergies in India, may actually signal early autoimmune diseases. Internal medicine specialists warn that these conditions, which don't follow seasonal patterns or respond to antihistamines, can cause silent, irreversible damage if left undiagnosed. Early medical evaluation is crucial to distinguish between allergies and autoimmune disorders.

Why childhood bone cancer is hard to detect early: Symptoms parents should watch for

New research reveals bone cancer in children and teens faces the longest diagnostic delays, often taking months, unlike other childhood cancers. This delay allows tumours to grow, impacting treatment success. Teenagers experience the longest waits, with symptoms frequently mistaken for common injuries. Early recognition of persistent pain and swelling is crucial for timely intervention and better outcomes.

‘South Indians, listen’: Doctor explains why diabetes risk is higher in the South, and the small diet fixes that can help

Traditional South Indian diets are high in polished white rice and carbs, and many of us eat three carb-dominant meals a day, stated the internal medicine specialist

Can Consuming Certain Carbs Increase Lung Cancer Risk?

A newly highlighted study finds that diets high in rapidly digestible carbs (high-glycaemic index) may modestly raise lung cancer risk, while whole-grain and low-GI carb diets may not.

Waking Up Exhausted? Try These 7 Expert-Approved Sleep Habits

​If you open your eyes feeling drained, rely on caffeine to function, or hit an energy crash by noon - your sleep cycle needs help. Dr. Pal breaks down why your sleep isn’t restoring you - and how tiny changes in your night routine can fix your mornings for good.

How Much Should You Weigh For Your Height? Here's What Experts Say

Maintaining a healthy balance between height and weight is not just about appearance, it’s a key indicator of overall health. Medical science has long relied on a standard method to assess this balance: the Body Mass Index, or BMI. However, experts say that while BMI offers a helpful guideline, it doesn’t paint the full picture, especially for South Asian body types.“Body balance is essential for any person to be healthy. If the right ratio...

The invisible crisis after 50: Why ageing well is becoming behavioural, not biological

Ageing in India is shifting. Loneliness and routine fatigue are bigger challenges than physical illness for those over 50. Mental resilience, social connections, and good habits are key to well-being. Nutrition and supplements support this. Intentionality in building friendships and creating stimulating environments defines thriving in later life. This is about designing the second half of life.

Sharvari shares 4 wellness habits she swears by: ‘Actually helped me feel steady through the chaos’

"Starting small and early is the only thing that s...," Sharvari mentioned in the caption of her Instagram post.

Early kidney problems often look like dehydration; how to tell the difference and key signs you shouldn’t ignore

Kidney issues often present subtly, with early symptoms like fatigue and dry mouth mistaken for dehydration. Changes in urine, swelling, brain fog, nausea, muscle cramps, itching, and back pain can also signal impaired kidney function. Recognizing these signs beyond simple dehydration is crucial for early detection and intervention.

Can prediabetes be reversed? Apollo doctor highlights a new study and shares how to reverse it

New research indicates prediabetes is not a guaranteed path to diabetes, with the first two years post-diagnosis offering the best chance for reversal. A decade-long Indian study found nearly 60% of individuals with prediabetes returned to normal blood sugar levels within this timeframe, emphasizing the critical role of early lifestyle interventions.

Diabetes medicine vs insulin: Pune-based doctor weighs in on which approach best controls blood sugar

A recent video by Pune-based diabetologist Dr Pramod Tripathi has sparked discussion on whether insulin or diabetes medication is more effective for controlling high blood sugar. Tripathi explained that while insulin is essential for Type 1 diabetes, LADA and advanced complications, it may not be ideal for most Type 2 patients due to weight gain and higher cardiovascular risk. He noted that oral medicines are safer and more predictable, but...

Neurologist explains early symptoms of Alzheimer’s and 7 ways to reduce your risk

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, which affects memory, thinking and one’s ability to complete daily tasks. Though most people think of it as a problem of older age, the earliest changes can begin years or even decades before symptoms become apparent. It is easy to ignore forgetfulness or personality changes as part of normal aging, but it is critical to identifying problems early. The earlier symptoms are picked up, the...

Does more sun exposure make you live longer? Here's what a UK neuroscientist said

Exposure to sunlight, especially when the sun is low in the sky, helps improve the health of your eyes, skin, hormones, and gives a boost to longevity.

Tattoos may be putting your immune system at risk, new study shows

Tattoos may do more than decorate the skin — they could also alter how the body responds to disease, according to new research. View on euronews

I’m a prostate cancer doctor – these easy daily habits help lower my risk

Jaggery and ginger for winter cough: Doctor explains how this simple home remedy helps and important safety precautions

Jaggery and ginger may ease a winter cough by soothing the throat and reducing irritation, with a doctor highlighting key benefits and safety tips.

How higher fitness levels cut the risk of bladder and kidney cancer, according to a 22-year study

Boost your fitness, slash cancer risk! A major study reveals that higher cardiorespiratory fitness significantly lowers the chances of developing urinary tract cancers, especially in men. Highly fit individuals saw a substantial reduction in risk, with men experiencing a remarkable 41% drop. This practical measure could soon be a key indicator for early cancer detection and prevention.

55-year-old says he reversed his biological age to 20: How basic lifestyle habits helped him achieve longevity

A 55-year-old man has gone viral after claiming he now has the biological age of a 20-year-old, a transformation he links to simple, low-cost daily habits. Reported by The Telegraph, the case highlights the growing interest in lifestyle-driven longevity. Human biologist Gary Brecka explained that the routine focuses on basic practices such as regular movement, balanced nutrition, quality sleep, hydration, and avoiding harmful habits.

Noida, Delhi oncologist warns 'persistent cough is not normal'; shares early signs of lung cancer you should not ignore

A cough that lingers for weeks is never normal. Oncologist Dr Manish Sahni explains the early signs of lung cancer and why timely evaluation is crucial.

Top vascular surgeon shares 3 habits that help clear blocked arteries and protect your heart

Keep your arteries healthy with simple changes. Increase Vitamin K2 from foods like cheese and eggs. Cut down on white bread and sugary snacks. Get 30 minutes of daily exercise like walking or swimming. These steps prevent plaque buildup and reduce risks of heart attack and stroke. Dr Sumit Kapadia advises these natural methods for lifelong heart protection.

That painless abdomen bulge could be hernia: Top preventions and remedies

Hernia is among the most-prevalent surgical issues in Indian adults. Leaving it untreated can invite fatal complications

Is Pink Rock Salt Good For You? Doctor Debunks Viral Claims That No One Talks About

Pink rock salt, more commonly referred to as Himalayan pink salt, has enjoyed significant popularity over the last few years due to both its unique colour and health benefits claimed for it. Pink rock salt is usually marketed as a “healthier” and more “natural” type of salt.” This perception was largely reinforced by social media, wellness influencers, and food marketing. Proponents claim this type of salt is rich in valuable minerals such as...

Want healthy, glossy hair? Know the 7 essential habits to protect and prevent long-term damage

Try out these simple and everyday care tips by the American Academy of Dermatology to prevent your hair from getting damaged.

Obesity among kids in India rising due to economic growth, fast food culture: Doctors

Bengaluru: Globalisation of fast-food culture and its contribution to economic growth in India have led to increased obesity among adolescents, medical experts opined Saturday."Before the 90s, when the economy of our country was not open, we used to have good healthy Indian thali food, which contained all the nutrients and was more balanced. It use...

How Many Steps You Really Need Daily for Weight Loss and Good Health

Walking is one of the easiest and most efficient ways of physical activity. It can be incorporated in daily life very easily. People these days keep track of many steps they have walked in a day through various devices and apps. The common question that arises is how many steps a person needs to walk in order to lose weight or stay healthy. It is a common belief that walking 10,000 steps can help with weight loss. However, this number might not...

Not just normal: 7 hidden cancer signs women need to notice

Women should be vigilant about subtle bodily changes that could signal cancer. Persistent bloating, unusual vaginal bleeding, unexplained bruising, long-standing heartburn, new or changing moles, a persistent cough, and unexplained weight loss are key indicators. Early detection through listening to your body is crucial for better outcomes. These signs are often dismissed but warrant medical attention.

More than memory loss: Researchers have discovered two new dementia risk factors; here's what they are

New research highlights two crucial, preventable dementia risk factors beyond memory loss: high "bad" cholesterol in mid-life and untreated vision loss in later years. These factors, now recognized by the Lancet Commission, contribute significantly to dementia cases. Early detection and management of these conditions offer a hopeful path to protecting brain health.

Are sweet potatoes good for weight loss? Benefits, nutrition and how they help

Sweet potatoes are a favourite for many because of their natural sweetness and psychologically attractive vibrant colour. Are they a suitable food for weight loss? The is not as simple as yes or no. But definitely, sweet potatoes are good for supporting healthy weight management. To get a favourable outcome, there are factors that one needs to consider first. 130 grams of sweet potatoes contain 112 calories, around 26 grams, 2 grams of protein,...

5 Benefits Of Consuming Garlic For Better Heart Function

Garlic, or allium sativum, is widely used in Asian medicine as a staple ingredient, but it also has certain health benefits for the heart. Recent studies suggest that consuming garlic plays a vital role in improving overall heart function through the presence of its active compound present in garlic, known as allicin. This compound is responsible for aiding in the better functioning of the heart by lowering cardiovascular risk factors. These...

Lower blood sugar in 15 minutes daily - CMC Vellore doctor recommends one simple habit instead of medicine

Senior diabetologist Dr. Brijmohan Arora from CMC Vellore highlights walking as a simple, effective way to lower blood sugar. Even 15 minutes can trigger rapid glucose absorption by muscles, reducing levels naturally. Consistent daily walks improve insulin sensitivity, aid weight management, and support metabolic health, making it a powerful tool for diabetes management.

Feeling low, sick and unwell in winter? Nutritionist links it to vitamin D deficiency and suggests 9 foods to eat daily

A drop in sunlight during winter can quietly wreck your energy and immunity. A nutritionist shares 10 vitamin D-rich foods that can help restore your levels.

From weight loss to Type 2 diabetes control and more, all the health benefits of green tea

Did you know that drinking green tea is helping your heart, calming your body, and giving your brain a little boost? While it does not offer drastic or instant results regular, controlled consumption of green tea that is brewed normally and not in high-dose supplement form, may support long-term health in a powerful way. In a busy world full of newer trends, green tea shows that good health may still come from simple, everyday rituals. According...

Can Drinking Amla-Beet-Carrot Juice On An Empty Stomach Boost Immunity?

Consuming ABC juice on an empty stomach can be beneficial for the entire body. But the key to unlocking largest nutrient absorption lies in consuming it on an empty stomach. Learn about the ways that ABC juice can help boost your immunity.

Is coffee anti- or pro-inflammatory? Gut health specialist clears the confusion

Coffee is the second most popular drink in the world. For millions, it’s an essential morning ritual that kick-starts the day, providing energy and alertness, as well as comfort and even artistic inspiration. Despite its worldwide popularity, discussions about coffee's health benefits often seem fragmented. Some studies praise it for being a rich source of antioxidants, while others caution that it can cause inflammation, acidity, and cortisol...

Doctor shares how to recognise a seizure and key steps to help someone having one: 'Can look like full body shaking'

Seeing someone around you collapse and start shaking can be scary, but knowing what to do in these crucial situations can save a life.

What melatonin overuse does to your body: Side-effects, long-term risks, and how to use it safely

Melatonin, once a gentle sleep aid, is now overused, leading to next-day grogginess and disrupted natural rhythms. High doses can blur night and day, causing vivid dreams and difficulty concentrating. Long-term excessive use risks circadian rhythm disruption and dependency. Experts advise using the lowest effective dose, taken before bed, and prioritizing healthy sleep habits over constant reliance.

I am a gut doctor and here are eight herbs I use, AIIMS-trained doctor reveals

The gut plays a crucial role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health. It efficiently breaks down food, absorbs essential nutrients, and helps to eliminate toxins. A balanced gut microbiome is vital for a strong immune system, mental health, and even skin health. The importance of a healthy gut cannot be overstated. Diet plays a crucial role in supporting gut health. Certain herbs have been shown to support and boost gut health....