How Safe Is Intermittent Fasting In Losing Weight?

With obesity on the rise, intermittent fasting is rapidly turning into a global rage. Junk foods are trending and so is the 500-calorie diet in order to stick to the ‘reed thin shape’. Are you worried about fitting into that dress for next month’s party? Are you surfing the net to find the best dieting tips? If intermittent fasting is ensnaring your mind too, then it’s better to know all about it and reach to a decision.

What is Intermittent Fasting?

The logic behind intermittent fasting is to watch over one’s diet for a few days rather than cutting down daily. Intermittent fasting provides a variety of dieting options. The very popular amongst them being the 5:2 diet, where one takes a normal diet for five days and fasts for the next two consecutive days. During this period, an individual takes a 500-600 calorie diet. Another mechanism is where a 500-600 calorie diet is taken every other day. The regular intermittent diet involves fasting for 16 hours at a stretch and providing oneself an 8 hour window to consume all the calories for the day.

Expert Opinion

Toronto-based dietician, Leslie Beck opines that one should choose one’s dieting method according to one’s lifestyle but she also agrees that the 5:2 diet stands the most popular owing to the fact that people find it more convenient as it involves cutting down calorie intake for only few days a week. The flexibility of the diet, though appealing, needs to undergo some trial and error before being opted to be practised in the long run. Jessica Tong, a Vancouver-based dietician recommends a multivitamin or fibre supplement intake during the 500-calorie schedule to maintain the body’s nutrition balance.

The question of safety 

A research conducted in 2011 by Dr. Michelle Harvie cited that intermittent fasting is an effective way to shed excess weight. At the same time, it should be noted that it is not ideal for people who are trying to lose weight for the first time. If losing weight is the ultimate choice, then one can opt for healthier options like choosing to take a low-calorie balanced diet throughout.

There are many side effects associated with intermittent fasting such as headache, dizziness, stomach ache, vomiting, irritability, fatigue or even difficulty in sleeping. 

Children, diabetics or people suffering from hypoglycaemia and pregnant or breast-feeding women should completely abstain from intermittent fasting. The psychological side effects associated with it often act as a barrier in its proper execution. One needs to be really strong-willed to restrain the urge to stay away from temptation and hunger. Research shows that regular fasting can put one into starvation mode, thus reducing the body’s efficiency in burning calories. If the body starves for too long, it will break down muscle tissue to use as energy, leading to loss of muscle mass. 

Since overtly restricting the diet has negative repercussions, it may be concluded that the traditional approach of dieting under the supervision of a dietician is recommended for a safe and healthy living.

By Khalid Md. Saifullah

Naturoveda Health World

Note: Being at the forefront of treating chronic diseases, Naturoveda Health World utilises the unique combination of Fundamentals of Ayurveda, Unani and Therapeutic Yoga. These time-tested procedures not just tackle the symptoms, but also eradicate the root cause of the disease. The Naturovedic treatment is completely safe, highly effective and pocket-friendly as well. To contact Naturoveda, call on 1800 258 6666 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 96744 26666.

www.naturoveda.com

Kitchen Remedies To Fight Hyperacidity

It is not uncommon to feel a little ‘heavy’ after having a particularly oil-rich and spicy meal. However, if you feel a severe burning sensation in your chest and throat accompanied by sharp pain, then you are having an attack of Hyperacidity.

Here are some home remedies that you can prepare and keep in your home to deal with a Hyperacidity attack. Most of the ingredients used to make these natural remedies are to be found in any ordinary kitchen. These remedies will be particularly helpful if you suffer from chronic Hyperacidity.

Hyperacidity – 5 home remedies

1. Ginger: The ginger root helps to improve digestion while aiding in better absorption and assimilation of essential nutrients from the food particles in the digestive tract.

• Cut a small piece of ginger into 5 thin slices.
• Put the pieces in a small bowl of water.
• Boil the mixture for 2 minutes.
• Strain the mixture and remove the residue.
• Let the remaining water cool down.
• Drink it slowly.

2. Fennel seeds: The volatile oils present in it give it potent anti-ulcer properties. Moreover, it helps in the digestive process and reduces the risk of constipation.

• Put a pinch of Fennel seeds into a small bowl of water.
• Boil the mixture for 3 minutes.
• Strain away the residue.
• Leave the water undisturbed overnight.
• Drink it after a meal. 

3. Cold milk: The calcium present in milk prevents the buildup of acid in the stomach. Its alkaline property also neutralizes excess acid secretion. The cool temperature brings instant relief from the burning sensation associated with Hyperacidity. Adding ghee to it helps to improve its acid-combating capacity.  

• Take a glass of unsweetened milk and put half a teaspoon of ghee in it.
• Stir it well.
• Put it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
• Drink it after a meal. 

4. Mint: It is a traditional solution to deal with the problem of excessive acid secretion in the stomach following a particularly heavy meal.

• Take a handful of fresh mint leaves and put them in a mixer-grinder.
• Add one glass of water.
• Grind it into a thick solution.
• Strain the mixture to remove the residue.
• Drink the remaining water after each meal. 

5. Yogurt: It is a natural probiotic which helps to maintain the balance of useful bacteria in the gut. This keeps the digestive system functioning normally and reduces the risk of an acid attack.

• Take a bowl of plain yogurt.
• Add a few pieces of crushed almonds or small banana slices to it.
• Mix it well.
• Eat it after a heavy meal.

By Khalid Md. Saifullah

Naturoveda Health World

Note: Being at the forefront of treating chronic diseases, Naturoveda Health World utilises the unique combination of Fundamentals of Ayurveda, Unani and Therapeutic Yoga. These time-tested procedures not just tackle the symptoms, but also eradicate the root cause of the disease. The Naturovedic treatment is completely safe, highly effective and pocket-friendly as well. To contact Naturoveda, call on 1800 258 6666 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 96744 26666.

www.naturoveda.com

The Ideal Yoga For Hyperacidity

                                                                                                                                                                                  The major cause of Hyperacidity is making wrong food choices. If you have a habit of eating food which is laced with spices, fat and oil then you are particularly vulnerable to the problem of Hyperacidity. 

For most people, Hyperacidity is just another excuse to pop a pill and forget about it. However, if you suffer from regular bouts of acid attacks, then it is time to change your strategy. You need a natural way to deal with recurring problem of Hyperacidity. What you really need is the power of Yoga. 

How Yoga helps in Hyperacidity

Regular practice of Yoga:

• Helps to regulate the secretion of digestive enzymes and acids.
• Promotes efficiency in the digestive process.
• Assists the body in removing accumulated toxins and waste matter.
• Brings stress and anxiety under control.
• Moderates the sensation of hunger.
• Improves the functioning of digestive organs like the liver and pancreas.

Yoga for Hyperacidity

1. Ardha Halasana: Also known as the ‘half plough pose’, this asana can help you regulate the presence of gas in the stomach. By stimulating the various abdominal organs, this asana can also improve digestion and reduce the risk of constipation. Regular practice of this asana is known to improve blood circulation in and around the stomach region while reducing the concentration of fat in the abdominal area. 

2. Shitala Pranayama: This kind of breath control has a potent positive impact on the brain by reducing stress and worry. It can also help control hunger, which in turn reduces the urge to eat oily and spicy food. Moreover, Shitala Pranayama has a cooling effect on the entire body, especially the abdomen.

3. Uddiyana Bandha Mudra: The first mention of this Mudra is in the renowned Ayurvedic text Gheranda Samhita. By regulating the process of digestion, this Mudra can reduce the risk of a Hyperacidity attack. It moderates the functioning of the digestive organs like the liver and pancreas as well as helps to keep stress at bay.   

By Khalid Md. Saifullah
Naturoveda Health World

Note: Being at the forefront of treating chronic diseases, Naturoveda Health World utilises the unique combination of Fundamentals of Ayurveda, Unani and Therapeutic Yoga. These time-tested procedures not just tackle the symptoms, but also eradicate the root cause of the disease. The Naturovedic treatment is completely safe, highly effective and pocket-friendly as well. To contact Naturoveda, call on 1800 258 6666 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 96744 26666.

www.naturoveda.com

Natural Means To Overcome Hyperacidity

                                                                                                                                                                                  It is time to stop blaming food for the condition of your tummy. If you suffer from chronic Hyperacidity, then you need to carefully select the foods you eat on a daily basis. This selection can only be made after looking closely at what kind of impact certain foods have on the level of acidity in your stomach. If you eat foods which help control acid production, then you will be able to lead a life free from the agony of Hyperacidity.

Foods for Hyperacidity

1. Bananas: They help to control the damage caused by Hyperacidity on the inner lining of the stomach by reducing the concentration of the acid. This in turn brings down the intensity of heartburn. Because of their alkaline nature, bananas are considered as natural antacids.

2. Ginger: Just a small amount of raw ginger can help you get a grip on Hyperacidity. Its ability to moderate digestion and control inflammation is well-documented in Ayurvedic literature.

3. Honey: The thickness of the honey forms a coating on the stomach and oesophagus, thereby reducing the burning sensation and pain. Honey also cuts down the intensity of inflammation and thus speeds up the recovery time.

4. Oatmeal: It is the perfect food with which to start your day. Rich in energy and essential nutrients, oatmeal also helps to regulate the level of acidity in your stomach. The fibre present in it helps you feel full, thus reducing the urge to eat in between meals. Most importantly, oatmeal is easy to prepare.

5. Yogurt: Like bananas, yogurt is an alkaline food which helps to neutralize excess acid produced in the stomach, thus providing a cooling effect on your digestive system. Yogurt also contains probiotics, which promote the growth of useful bacteria in the digestive tract.

How herbs help combat Hyperacidity

While these foods can certainly help you get a grip on the chronic problem of Hyperacidity, they cannot address the root cause of the problem. If you want temporary relief, then you can surely make use of these foods. However, if you want natural long-term relief, then you have to rely upon the healing power of Ayurvedic preparations like Avipattikar Churna, Sutshekhar Ras, Godanti Bhasma, Kamdudha Ras and herbs like Amla.

The combined efficacy of all these compounds is now easily available in one power-packed package: Vedcool.

What is Vedcool?

Coming from the acclaimed house of Naturoveda Organics, Vedcool is a comprehensive solution to Gastrointestinal problems like Hyperacidity. Made using classical Ayurvedic formulations and extensively researched herbs, Vedcool provides you with a safe, effective and natural way to overcome Hyperacidity and enjoy optimal digestive function on a long-term basis.

How does Vedcool help in Hyperacidity?

It is a unique combination of powerful Ayurvedic preparations and herbs which are designed to work together to protect the health of your Gastrointestinal system. It works against excess acid secretion to promote healthy digestion while simultaneously reducing the risk of getting ulcers. It helps to relieve heartburn, abdominal distension and removes the uncomfortable symptoms associated with dyspepsia. Needless to say, the use of natural ingredients greatly reduces the risk of encountering any side effect.

Key ingredients

1. Avipattikar Churna: This churna (powder) is a composite of several Ayurvedic ingredients like Black Pepper, Sonth, Haritaki and Mustaka. This herbal medicine is regularly used in Ayurveda to treat Hyperacidity as well as indigestion and loss of appetite.

2. Sutshekhar Ras: It is an Ayurvedic powder made up of ingredients like Swarna Bhasma, Shunti and Gandhaka. It is primarily used against dyspepsia, gastritis and abdominal pain.

3. Godanti Bhasma: Due to its cooling nature, it helps to regulate digestive function, reduces the possibility of excess acid secretion and improves immunity.

4. Kamdudha Ras: This is a classical Ayurvedic medicine which is designed to have a positive impact on digestive ailments, reduce burning sensation and control vomiting.

5. Amla: Packed with powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces stomach toxicity and reduces the concentration of acid while simultaneously providing relief from pain and other related symptoms of Hyperacidity. Amla also regulates the digestive process and ensures controlled release of gastric juices.     

         

Which problems can Vedcool solve?

It works effectively against various Gastrointestinal problems like:

• Hyperacidity
• Abdominal Distension
• Heartburn
• Dyspepsia
• Peptic ulcer

Where is it available?

Vedcool is available at all Naturoveda Health World clinics in Kolkata and Howrah.

By Khalid Md. Saifullah

Naturoveda Health World

Note: Being at the forefront of treating chronic diseases, Naturoveda Health World utilises the unique combination of Fundamentals of Ayurveda, Unani and Therapeutic Yoga. These time-tested procedures not just tackle the symptoms, but also eradicate the root cause of the disease. The Naturovedic treatment is completely safe, highly effective and pocket-friendly as well. To contact Naturoveda, call on 1800 258 6666 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 96744 26666.

www.naturoveda.com

What Is Hyperacidity And How Can It Hurt You?

                                                                                                                                                                                As you finish your meal with your friends, a thousand images flood your mind. The pandals, the long lines, the commotion and the bright lights – they crowd around your mind like a haze of bees. Finally, Durga Puja is here! But just as you start to dig into the dessert, you feel a strong burning sensation between the ribs. A sharp burning pain starts in your chest, going right up to your throat. What’s going on? Are you having a heart attack? Suddenly, all the joy and excitement evaporates and you start to feel vulnerable. You are abruptly aware of your own mortality.

First, the good news: no, it’s not a heart attack. Now, the bad news: it’s actually Hyperacidity.

What is Hyperacidity?

Also known as Acid Dyspepsia, Hyperacidity is a common medical condition which occurs when the stomach secretes large amounts of digestive acids. These acids are used in the stomach to break down food particles and help in separating the nutrients from the food. But excess secretion of acids can eat into the stomach lining, causing pain.

Symptoms of Hyperacidity

• Burning sensation in the stomach, chest and throat
• Restlessness
• Excessive sweating
• Frequent belching
• Nausea along with general disorientation
• Sour taste in the mouth
• Bloating in the stomach
• Painful muscular contraction 

What causes Hyperacidity?

• Eating large amounts of oily and spicy food in one meal
• Chronic stress and anxiety
• Regular consumption of alcohol
• Having excess body weight
• Eating junk food

What you need to do

If you think you are having Hyperacidity attack, then the first thing to do is to stop eating. Then you should drink at least 2 glasses of plain water. Sit quietly in a cool place away from heat or excess humidity. If you are wearing heavy clothing then take it off. Remember to loosen your trousers.

How to avoid Hyperacidity

• Refrain from eating heavily spiced or oily food.
• Drink 2 glasses of water at least half an hour before a meal.
• Reduce consumption of red meat.
• Try to stay away from foods with preservatives.
• Focus on eating green leafy vegetables like spinach or cabbage, soy beans and honey.
• Control your weight by regular exercise and diet-control.

By Khalid Md. Saifullah

Naturoveda Health World

Note: Being at the forefront of treating chronic diseases, Naturoveda Health World utilises the unique combination of Fundamentals of Ayurveda, Unani and Therapeutic Yoga. These time-tested procedures not just tackle the symptoms, but also eradicate the root cause of the disease. The Naturovedic treatment is completely safe, highly effective and pocket-friendly as well. To contact Naturoveda, call on 1800 258 6666 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 96744 26666.

www.naturoveda.com

Chikungunya – Are You At Risk?

                                                                                                                                                                              You may have heard from your neighbour about what’s going on in Delhi. Chikungunya - this strange-sounding word is now all over the newspapers and on the television. What does it mean? How does this disease spread? Is it fatal? In short, you want to know whether you too are at risk or not. So, let’s find out!

What is Chikungunya?

The name refers to a disease caused by the Chikungunya virus. This virus is spread by two particular types of mosquitoes, the Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti. The first recorded instance of a Chikungunya outbreak occurred in Tanzania in 1952. The word ‘Chikungunya’ comes from the Kimakonde language and means ‘to become contorted’, a reference to the stooped condition of sufferers due to joint pain. 

Identifying Chikungunya

1. Sudden high fever, with body temperature reaching 104 degrees Fahrenheit (or 40 degrees Celsius). 

2. Severe joint pain, especially in the hands, wrists and ankles. The pain can be strong enough to restrict movement. Some people experience pain along with swelling.

3. Rashes on the face, arms, legs and back.

4. Headache along with pain in large muscle groups.

5. Constant feeling of tiredness and lack of energy.

How does it spread?

The Chikungunya virus spreads among humans through the bite of infected female mosquitoes. Mosquitoes carrying this virus are usually active during the day, especially in the morning and late afternoon. The first symptoms of the disease usually appear within 4 days of being bitten by an infected mosquito. 

Is Chikungunya different from Dengue?

Since both the diseases share symptoms like fever and joint pain, it may be difficult to distinguish them at first. The primary difference is that while Dengue causes life-threatening complications like shock and heavy bleeding, Chikungunya is relatively milder. 

How to detect Chikungunya?

In the initial stages, even blood tests have difficulty in detecting the disease. Serological tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), may help confirm the presence of anti-chikungunya antibodies which are produced by the body. 

Is there a cure?

Unfortunately, there is no cure or vaccine for this disease at present. Most treatments focus on addressing the individual symptoms. Along with complete rest and regular intake of water, doctors usually prescribe medicines to control the fever and pain sensation. 

How to prevent Chikungunya

The simplest way to avoid Chikungunya is also the hardest: make sure you don’t get bitten by a virus-carrying mosquito.

1. Scan the immediate area around your house for puddles of standing water. Water can gather in discarded objects like an old mug, flowerpot or a worn-out tire. These become breeding ground of mosquitoes. 

2. Wear protective clothing at all times, especially during the day. Make sure your clothing covers as much of the skin as possible. 

3. Apply mosquito-repellent cream on exposed body parts like the face, neck and feet. 

4. Sleep inside a mosquito net. Keep an anti-mosquito coil or vaporizer in the room.  

5. Avoid wearing dark-coloured clothes as it attracts mosquitoes. 

What to do if you are infected

If you think that you or someone you know is showing signs of Chikungunya, then don’t panic. Visit the local general physician or the hospital immediately. Usually, you will be asked to undergo blood tests. In the mean time, get plenty of rest and drink lots of water to avoid fatigue and dehydration. 

By Khalid Md. Saifullah
Naturoveda Health World

Note: Being at the forefront of treating chronic diseases, Naturoveda Health World utilises the unique combination of Fundamentals of Ayurveda, Unani and Therapeutic Yoga. These time-tested procedures not just tackle the symptoms, but also eradicate the root cause of the disease. The Naturovedic treatment is completely safe, highly effective and pocket-friendly as well. To contact Naturoveda, call on 1800 258 6666 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 96744 26666.

www.naturoveda.com

How Aerobic Exercise Benefits Your Heart?

                                                                                                                                                                            Many people dismissed the rise of aerobic exercise in the 1970s as just another ‘health fad’. However, Dr. Kenneth Cooper (who first came up with the notion) was determined not to be undone by a few naysayers. Thanks to his extensive research and passion for health, aerobic exercise gradually spread throughout the world. Now, doctors and physiotherapists routinely request their patients to practise aerobic exercise as a way to help fight disease as well as to maintain optimal overall health.

Now, researchers at the Columbia University Medical Center have found out that regular aerobic exercise helps to keep your heart healthy.  

The research

The study looked at how the blood cells behave in the presence of germ particles. For this, blood samples from 46 healthy adults within the age of 20 and 45 were taken. Samples were taken before and after a session of moderate aerobic exercise. The samples were then exposed to an infectious agent called Lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The researchers observed the level of Tumour Necrosis Factor(TNF), which is the first stage in the process of inflammation. 

The findings

The blood samples taken after the period of aerobic exercise showed reduced TNF after exposure to the infectious agent. This finding strongly suggests that regular aerobic exercise can help reduce systemic inflammation which often leads to heart disease. By controlling the level of inflammation, aerobic exercise reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, a factor which is responsible for heart disease. 

4 effective aerobic exercises for the heart

1. Jogging: This is the simplest kind of exercise you can do to help keep your heart healthy. Jogging is enjoyable, safe, inexpensive and requires no added equipment. Just set aside 30 minutes in the morning and jog around your neighbourhood, or just do it in the park.

2. Riding a bicycle: Regular cycling activates the large muscles in your legs, which in turn provides moderate aerobic exercise for your heart. If you are not a fan of the outdoors or if it’s raining, you can always try out pedalling on a stationary bike. This equipment is relatively affordable and provides great value for money. 

3. Swimming: Just two and a half hours of swimming per week can give your heart the right amount of aerobic activity to stay healthy. One reason you can opt for swimming instead of jogging or walking is that it puts less stress on your bones and joints. Thus, even the elderly can take up swimming. 

4. Weight training: Don’t let the name fool you – weight training does not mean lifting metal weights. The ‘weight’ which is extensively used in this form of exercise is your own body weight. Weight training can not only keep your body weight under control, but also increase muscle mass and bone density while helping your heart to become stronger.   

By Khalid Md. Saifullah
Naturoveda Health World

Note: Being at the forefront of treating chronic diseases, Naturoveda Health World utilises the unique combination of Fundamentals of Ayurveda, Unani and Therapeutic Yoga. These time-tested procedures not just tackle the symptoms, but also eradicate the root cause of the disease. The Naturovedic treatment is completely safe, highly effective and pocket-friendly as well. To contact Naturoveda, call on 1800 258 6666 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 96744 26666.

www.naturoveda.com