All posts by Sumana Rao

Don't worry about the people in your past; There's a reason they didn't make it to your future.
Noise induce hearing loss in children

Noise Induced Hearing Loss In Children – Causes And Prevention

Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) in children is a growing concern due to increased exposure to loud sounds from personal devices, concerts, noisy environments, and recreational activities. Unlike age related hearing loss, NIHL is entirely preventable but can have lifelong consequences.

Causes of NIHL in Children: Excessive exposure to some of these can result in hearing problems in children. For example, if baby is exposed to vacuum cleaner noise for more than 5-10 minutes it is not good. Either change your house cleaning schedule or move the baby to a quiet room. Parents should understand that babies and children are more vulnerable to loud noises. The reason for this is they perceive loud noises differently. The sound which adults consider as normal for ears could be loud for baby’s ears. Obviously, babies and toddlers cannot express themselves or do not know how to avoid loud noises until parent step in to help them.

  • Loud music and headphones – Children use headphones or earbuds to listen. This is a common scene that we see. However, the extended use of headphones or earbuds at high volumes can cause hearing problems.
  • Noisy environments – Exposure to loud events like concerts, sporting events, radio, home theater or movie theaters, airplane engine, traffic noise are few reasons for hearing impairment too.
  • Toys and devices – These toys and instruments sometime exceed safe sound levels -Electronic toys, musical instruments, vacuum cleaner, and alarm systems.
  • Recreational activities – Watching or participating closely to activities like shooting sports, motorbike riding, and fireworks can cause sudden damage.

Impact of NIHL:

  • Permanent hearing damage – Once damaged, inner ear hair cells do not regenerate.
  • Speech and language delays – Affects communication skills, especially in younger children.
  • Learning difficulties – Hearing loss can make it harder to follow lessons in school.
  • Social and emotional impact – Children with hearing loss may struggle with social interactions and confidence.

Preventive measures to keep children from losing hearing:

  1. Use volume limits – Keep personal devices at 60% of maximum volume (or just three decibels) and limit use to one hour at a time.
  2. Encourage quiet breaks – Give ears time to recover from loud sounds.
  3. Use noise canceling headphones – Reduce the need for high volume in noisy places.
  4. Monitor toys and devices – Choose toys with safe sound levels (below 85 dB).
  5. Use hearing protection – Earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments like concerts or fireworks displays.

When to see your pediatrician?  

Talk to your child’s pediatrician. Doctors will do initial test and recommend what need to be done to get back or improve child’s hearing. If a child frequently asks people to repeat themselves, complains of ringing in the ears called tinnitus, or has difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments, a hearing test is recommended.

References:

https://hearinghealthfoundation.org/

https://www.asha.org/

https://www.nytimes.com/ Image credit: Image by Mimzy from Pixabay (Free to use under Pixabay content license

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Water conservation

Why Should We Conserve Water At Home

Are you thinking about conserving water and do not know where to start and how you can conserve water? You are not alone. Sometimes it can be confusing because in our daily life we all need water for thousands of reasons. Simply put without water we cannot cook, clean, or survive. While using water, if we start becoming conscious and remember that we owe to the environment then we will have path to move forward for water conservation. Let us start this at home.

Conserving water at home is simple and can make a significant difference in reducing water waste and lowering your utility bill. Conserving water at home is essential for several reasons, impacting both the environment and our daily lives. Why does conserving water matter?

1. Environmental benefits

  • Preserves natural ecosystems – Many rivers, lakes, and wetlands rely on a stable water supply. Excessive water use can deplete these resources, harming wildlife and plant life.
  • Reduces energy consumption – Treating and delivering water requires energy. Using less water reduces the carbon footprint associated with pumping, heating, and treating water.
  • Prevents water shortages – Climate change and population growth put pressure on water supplies. Conserving water helps ensure future availability.

2. Saves money: Using less water means lower utility bills for both water and energy (since heating water also costs money).

3. Supports agriculture and food production: Water is crucial for growing food. Reducing household water waste helps ensure there is enough water for farming and food security.

4. Protects water quality: Overuse of water can lead to pollution, as excessive runoff carries chemicals, pesticides, and waste into rivers and lakes.

5. Helps during droughts: Many regions face water scarcity, and conserving water at home ensures enough supply during dry seasons or droughts.

How can you conserve water at home?

In the kitchen:

  • Use a bowl to wash vegetables instead of running water continuously.
  • Fix leaks—even a small drip can waste gallons of water.
  • Run the dishwasher only when full to maximize efficiency.
  • Use leftover cooking water to water plants – like water used for cooking rice or vegetable cooking

In the bathroom:

  • Take shorter showers—shower for 5 minutes or less.
  • Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving.
  • Install water-efficient showerheads and aerators on faucets.
  • Use a dual-flush or low-flow toilet to reduce water use per flush.

In the laundry room:

  • Wash full loads of laundry instead of smaller ones.
  • Choose the right water level setting if your machine allows it.
  • Use room temperature or cold water, when possible, to save energy too.

Outdoors:

  • Water plants early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
  • Use a rain barrel to collect water for watering plants.
  • Choose drought resistant plants that require less watering.
  • Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing them down.

Image credit: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/715726 (CC0 Public Domain)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: March 4, 2025
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Jackfruit mixed veg sambar recipe

Easy To Prepare Delicious Jackfruit And Mixed Vegetable Sambar

This is jackfruit season, and it is easy to get tender jackfruit in the market. Using fresh tender jackfruit, drumstick, small onions, and carrots you can prepare delicious sambar and have with either the rice of roti or with idlis. You can dip vada in this sambar! This recipe does not need coconut and easy to prepare and by consuming this mixed vegetable sambar you will get most of your fibers and protein that is required for your daily consumption.

Time for cooking – half an hour.

Ingredients:

  1. Toor dal – ½ cup toor dal
  2. Turmeric powder – 1tsp
  3. Tender jackfruit bite size pieces – 2 cups
  4. Small onions – 1 cup
  5. Tomato – 1 chopped
  6. Carrot pieces- 1 cup
  7. Drumstick 2-inch pices-1 medium size drumstick
  8. Green chilies – 1
  9. Tamarind pulp – 1 Tbsp
  10. Sambar powder – 2 Tbsp (adjust according to your need of spice level)
  11. Salt – for taste
  12. For seasoning – few curry leaves, ½ tsp mustard, one red chili, ¼ tsp fenugreek, pinch asafetida

Preparation:

  1. Rinse toor dal well and pressure cook with two cups water, turmeric, and a pinch of salt for 3-4 whistles until soft. Mash it and set it aside.
  2. To a pressure cooker add chopped jackfruit, tomato, carrots, and green chilies. Add water, salt, and cook (3 whistles should be enough).
  3. On medium heat, place sambar vessel and add a tsp of oil. Add small onions and drumsticks and fry for 2-3 minutes. Now add tamarind pulp. Let both onion and drumstick cook in the tamarind water.
  4. To tamarind pulp now add sambar powder and continue boiling for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Now add cooked vegetables and smashed dal. Mix well and continue boiling. Adjust the salt according to your taste.
  6. Finally, prepare seasoning – to heated cooking oil, add curry leaves, mustard, red chili, and asafetida.
  7. Serve hot sambar with rice or chapathi or idli.

**You can cook drumsticks and onion along with jackfruit. The reason to cook them separately is to avoid smashing both these vegetables.

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: March 3, 2025
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Pancha tatva for Papaya growth

The Pancha Tatva Approach: How Rajasthan Farmer Vinod Dashora Cultivates Papayas Sustainably

In the arid landscapes of Rajasthan, where water is scarce and soil degradation is a growing concern, farmer Vinod Dashora has pioneered a sustainable approach to papaya cultivation using the ancient Pancha Tatva principle. By aligning his farming practices with the five fundamental elements—Earth (Prithvi), Water (Jal), Fire (Agni), Air (Vayu), and Space (Aakash)—he has successfully improved soil health, conserved water, and increased papaya yield without relying on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Understanding the Pancha Tatva approach in farming:

The Pancha Tatva principle is deeply rooted in traditional Indian agricultural wisdom, emphasizing harmony between nature and cultivation. Vinod Dashora integrated these elements into his papaya farming:

Earth (Prithvi): nurturing soil health

  • Used organic compost, vermicompost, and biofertilizers to enrich soil fertility.
  • Practiced mulching and crop rotation to retain moisture and improve soil structure.

Water (Jal): efficient irrigation and conservation

  • Implemented drip irrigation to minimize water wastage.
  • Harvested rainwater and used traditional water conservation techniques to sustain crops in dry conditions.

Fire (Agni): sunlight utilization and energy management.

  • Ensured optimal sun exposure for papaya plants to maximize photosynthesis.
  • Utilized biogas and cow dung-based bioenergy for farm operations, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

Air (Vayu): natural pest and disease control

  • Maintained proper air circulation around plants to prevent fungal infections.
  • Used neem extracts, organic pesticides, and companion planting to naturally deter pests.

Space (Aakash): holistic farm planning

  • Designed an efficient planting layout to allow adequate spacing and prevent overcrowding.
  • Adopted agroforestry and mixed cropping to support biodiversity and enhance ecosystem balance.

The impact of sustainable farming: Vinod Dashora’s adoption of the Pancha Tatva approach has yielded remarkable results:

  • Increased papaya production with better fruit quality.
  • Reduced reliance on chemical inputs, making farming eco-friendlier and more cost-effective.
  • Conserved water in a region prone to droughts, ensuring long-term agricultural viability.
  • Restored soil fertility, supporting future generations of sustainable farming.

A model for future farmers:

Vinod Dashora’s message to other farmers “Farming is not just a means of earning a living; it is a responsibility. When we farm in harmony with nature, the earth gives us in abundance.” (Krishi Jagran)

Vinod Dashora’s success serves as an inspiring case study for farmers worldwide, proving that a return to nature-based agricultural practices can lead to resilient and productive farming. His story reinforces the importance of traditional wisdom blended with modern sustainable techniques in securing food production while protecting the environment.

As climate change and soil depletion threatens global agriculture, Vinod’s Pancha Tatva method offers a scalable and eco-conscious farming model that can be adapted to different regions. His journey stands as a testament to the power of regenerative agriculture in transforming the future of food production.

Reference:

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: February 27, 2025
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Wall hangings tips

These Tips Makes Hanging Wall Décor Easy

There is something magical about a home decorated with love, care, and a touch of old-fashioned wisdom. Our elders knew how to make a house feel warm and inviting, often by using simple yet clever tricks to hang up artwork, photographs, and heirlooms. Whether you are decorating your space with vintage charm or just want to learn techniques, here are few best tips for wall decor hangings.

1. Use what you have: Instead of buying new frames or decorations, you can repurpose old fabric, embroidery hoops, and even decorative plates to adorn the walls. Consider using vintage scarves, handkerchiefs, or tapestries as unique wall hangings for a cozy, personalized touch.

2. The soap trick for nails: Ever struggled with hammering a nail into a stubborn wall? Rub the nail with a bar of soap before hammering it in. This trick helps the nail glide smoothly and reduces the risk of the plaster cracking. It is a simple fix!

3. The tape and nail test: Before committing to a nail in the wall, use painter’s tape to map out where the frame or artwork would go. This trick allows you to step back, adjust, and visualize the layout before making anything permanent.

4. String and clothespin gallery: Instead of traditional frames, string up twine and use clothespins to display family photos, postcards, or children’s artwork. This makes it easy to swap out pictures for a fresh look without damaging the walls.

5. The spoon and hook hack: Ever struggled to hang a picture with a tight wire on the back? Use the handle of an old spoon to pull the wire forward while positioning it over the nail or hook. This little trick saves frustration and makes hanging frames effortless.

Wall hanging spoons
Wall hanging spoon hooks

6. Balance with odd numbers: When arranging wall décor, go by the rule of threes or fives. Odd-numbered groupings create a more natural and visually appealing balance, whether you are hanging artwork, shelves, or decorative plates.

7. Double sided tape for lightweight décor: For lightweight decorations like paper art, small fabric pieces, or even holiday décor, use double-sided tape or adhesive putty. This keeps walls damage-free and make it easy to switch things up with the seasons.

8. DIY picture ledges: Long before store-bought floating shelves became popular, use of wooden planks or repurposed molding to create simple picture ledges were popular. Leaning artwork and frames against the wall gives a relaxed, layered look without the need for excessive nails.

Wall hangings attract not just guests, but also family members. It is a knack for making a house feel like home, often with the simplest materials and smartest tricks. Whether you are embracing a vintage aesthetic or just want to decorate with ease, these tips will help you transform your walls with warmth and charm.

Image credit: Image by Squaredone from Pixabay (Free to use under Pixabay content license)

Image credit: https://www.etsy.com/uk (spoon hooks)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: February 26, 2025
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Bacopa for memory boost

These 7 Herbs Can Boost Memory Power And Help In Overcoming Alzheimer’s Condition

Several Indian herbs have been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for brain health and cognitive function, and some show promise in supporting Alzheimer’s treatment. Seven well known herbs that are known to improve brain health and function are easily available either in herbal form or in the form of herbal supplements.

  1. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Brahmi is known as a powerful brain tonic in Ayurveda. It contains bacosides, which help improve memory, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance neuron communication. Studies suggest it may help slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients.

Ways to incorporate in diet:

  1. Tea: Steep dried Brahmi leaves in hot water for 5–10 minutes and drink daily.
  2. Smoothies: Add ¼ tsp of Brahmi powder to green smoothies.
  3. Chutney: Blend fresh Brahmi leaves with coconut, ginger, and lemon juice for brain boosting chutney.

2. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps reduce amyloid plaque buildup in the brain, a key factor in Alzheimer’s. It is known to enhance brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports neuron growth.

Ways to incorporate in diet:

  1. Golden Milk: Mix ½ teaspoon turmeric with warm almond or coconut milk, a pinch of black pepper, and honey.
  2. Curries and soups: Add turmeric to dals, sabzis, and soups for daily consumption.
  3. Turmeric paste: Mix turmeric with ghee or coconut oil and use it as a spread.
Turmeric for memory boost
Turmeric for memory boost

3. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha reduces cortisol stress hormone, which can contribute to cognitive decline. It has neuroprotective properties that may prevent nerve cell degeneration. It also helps to clear amyloid plaques from the brain.

Ways to incorporate in diet:

  1. Ashwagandha Tea: Boil ½ tsp of Ashwagandha powder with milk or almond milk and drink before bedtime.
  2. Smoothies: Blend ¼ tsp Ashwagandha powder with banana, almond butter, and plant-based milk.
  3. Energy balls: Mix Ashwagandha powder with dates, nuts, and coconuts for a healthy snack.
Ashwagandha for memory power
Ashwagandha for memory power

4. Shankhavali (Convolvulus pluricaulis): Also known as Shankhpushpi is a well-known Ayurvedic herb for memory enhancement. Plants with white flower is well known for its medicinal property.  It is known to improve cognitive function and reduce stress-induced neuroinflammation.

Ways to incorporate in diet:

  1. Herbal infusion: Steep dried Shankhpushpi in warm water and drink before bedtime.
  2. With honey: Mix ½ tsp of Shankhpushpi syrup with honey and warm water in the morning.
  3. With milk: Take Shankhavali extract (2 tsp) in one glass of warm milk.
Shankhavali for memory power
Shankhavali for memory power

5. Gotukola (Centella asiatica): Gotukola enhances circulation to the brain, improving oxygen and nutrient delivery. It supports nerve regeneration and may help slow cognitive decline.

Ways to incorporate in diet:

  1. Salads: Add fresh Gotukola leaves to salads with lemon dressing.
  2. Juice: Blend Gotukola leaves with coconut water for a refreshing drink.
  3. Soup: Add chopped Gotukola leaves to vegetable soups or stews.
Centellla memory booster
Centellla memory booster

6. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Guduchi is Known for its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports brain function and may help reduce oxidative damage in Alzheimer’s.

Ways to incorporate in diet:

  1. Herbal tea: Boil Guduchi stems in water and drinks as a detoxifying tea.
  2. With honey: Mix Guduchi powder with honey and take in the morning.
Guduchi for memory
Guduchi for memory

7. Guggulu (Commiphora wightii): Guggulu or Myrr contains antioxidants that may help prevent cognitive decline. It may support brain detoxification processes.

Ways to incorporate in diet:

  1. With warm water: Take Guggulu powder mixed with warm water or milk.
  2. Herbal supplements: Often taken in Ayurvedic formulations for brain health.
Guggulu for brain power
Guggulu for brain power

Brain boosting foods to pair with these 7 herbs:

  1. Nuts and seeds-Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia
  2. Leafy greens -Spinach, moringa, methi
  3. Berries -Blueberries, amla, pomegranate
  4. Healthy fats -Coconut, olive oil, ghee
  5. Whole grains -Millets, quinoa, brown rice

These 7 herbs can be taken as powders, teas, capsules, or extracts. However, it is best to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or doctor before starting any herbal treatment, especially for a condition like Alzheimer’s and you are already on prescription medicines.

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: February 25, 2025
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Heartburn symptom and remedy

Heartburn Symptoms, Prevention and Natural Remedies

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest, usually behind the breastbone, caused by stomach acid rising into the esophagus. It is a symptom of acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Is there a difference between acid reflux, heart burn and gastritis? The answer is yes. Heartburn, acid reflux, and gastritis are related but distinct digestive issues Acid reflux leads to heartburn. Gastritis is different from acid reflux and heartburn.

Acid reflux: Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus.

Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest -behind chest bone caused by acid reflux in esophagus

Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining. Pain in the upper abdomen and irritation in stomach.

What are symptoms of Heartburn:

  • Burning sensation in the chest (often after eating or at night)
  • Pain worsens when lying down or bending over.
  • Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • The feeling of food stuck in the throat.

Causes of heartburn:

  • Eating spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
  • Overeating
  • Lying down after eating
  • Caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated drinks
  • Smoking
  • Pregnancy
  • Obesity
  • Certain medications (e.g., aspirin)

Cures and remedies for heartburn:

Immediate relief:

  • Antacids like Tums neutralize stomach acid.
  • H2 Blockers like ranitidine or famotidine reduce acid production.
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) e.g., omeprazole, lansoprazole- block acid production for longer relief.

Lifestyle changes for prevention of heartburn

  • Eat smaller meals and avoid overeating.
  • Avoid trigger foods (spicy, acidic, fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine).
  • Do not lie down right after eating, wait at least 2-3 hours.
  • Raise the head of your bed by 6-8 inches.
  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the stomach.
  • Avoid tight clothing around the stomach.
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol.

Natural remedies to help relieve and prevent heartburn:

1. Aloe vera juice: Soothes the esophagus and reduces inflammation. Drink a small amount (about ½ cup) before meals.

2. Ginger: Helps with digestion and reduces stomach acid production. Drink ginger tea or chew a small piece of fresh ginger.

3. Apple cider vinegar: Helps balance stomach acid levels. Mix one teaspoon of ACV in a glass of warm water and drink before meals. (Start with lesser amounts to see if it helps.)

4. Baking soda: Neutralizes stomach acid. Mix ½ teaspoon in a glass of water and drink occasionally. (Not for long-term use.)

5. Bananas with oatmeal: Bananas function as a natural antacid and coat the stomach lining. Oatmeal helps absorb excess stomach acid.

6. Slippery elm: Forms a protective coating in the stomach and esophagus. Take as a tea or in supplement form.

7. Chamomile tea: Reduces stomach acidity and relaxes the digestive tract. Drink chamomile tea before bedtime to prevent nighttime heartburn.

8. Fennel seeds: Aid digestion and reduce bloating. Chew on a few seeds after meals or drink fennel tea.

9. Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice: Licorice root – Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a form of licorice root extract that has had the compound glycyrrhizin removed. It increases mucus production to protect the stomach lining. Available as chewable tablets or tea.

10. Avoid late night eating: Stop eating at least 2-3 hours before bed. Sleep with your head elevated to prevent acid reflux. Maintain good posture after meals to aid digestion.

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: February 24, 2025
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