All posts by Sumana Rao

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Gut And Skin Are Closely Connected -Gut Skin Axis

Gut And Skin Are Closely Connected -Gut Skin Axis

Gut health is essential for skin health because the gut and skin are connected through what is known as the “gut-skin axis.” Healthy gut can lead to healthier skin in following ways: 

  1. Reduces inflammation: A balanced gut microbiome (the trillions of bacteria in your digestive system) helps reduce systemic inflammation, which can improve skin conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea. When the gut is out of balance, it can trigger an inflammatory response that often shows up on the skin. 
  1. Enhances nutrient absorption: A healthy gut ensures that your body absorbs essential nutrients, like vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients support skin structure, hydration, and repair, contributing to a more radiant appearance. 
  1. Balances hormones: The gut plays a role in processing and regulating hormones. Poor gut health can contribute to hormonal imbalances, which may increase issues like breakouts, excess oil production, and even pigmentation problems. 
  1. Strengthens the skin barrier: A healthy gut can improve the skin’s barrier function by regulating compounds like ceramides, fatty acids, and proteins that keep the skin hydrated and protected. This barrier protects against pathogens, pollutants, and irritants that can cause breakouts or dryness. 
  1. Supports detoxification: The gut helps eliminate toxins from the body. When the gut is not functioning well, toxins can build up, sometimes leading the body to expel them through the skin. This can result in dull, congested, or acne-prone skin. 
  1. Balances skin microbiome: The skin, like the gut, has its own microbiome. A balanced gut microbiome can indirectly support a balanced skin microbiome, reducing issues like inflammation and helping to maintain skin clarity. 

Eating a diet rich in fiber, probiotics (like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut), and prebiotics (such as garlic, onions, and bananas) can improve gut health, which in turn supports clear, healthy skin. 

Image credit: Image by u_gjif9un3ht from Pixabay (CC0 Free to use under Pixabay content license) 

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: November 4, 2024
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Balancing Hormones Is Key For Skin Health

Balancing Hormones Is Key For Skin Health

Balancing hormones is key to healthy skin because hormones directly affect how skin functions, heals, and regenerates. How hormonal balance can enhance skin health? 

  1. Reduces acne and breakouts: Hormonal imbalances, particularly fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, and androgens (like testosterone), can increase sebum (oil) production, clogging pores and leading to acne. By balancing these hormones, you can reduce excess oil and prevent frequent breakouts. 
  1. Prevents dryness and redness: Estrogen supports skin hydration and elasticity by boosting collagen and natural oils in the skin. During menopause or hormonal imbalances, low estrogen levels can lead to dry, thin, and sensitive skin. Balancing estrogen levels helps maintain skin hydration and elasticity. 
  1. Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles: Estrogen and progesterone contribute to collagen production, which keeps the skin firm and smooth. Balancing hormones helps to maintain collagen levels and thus reduces the appearance of fine lines and prevents premature aging. 
  1. Improves skin healing and inflammation: Hormones like cortisol, the stress hormone, can cause inflammation when chronically elevated, worsening skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis. Balanced cortisol levels help reduce inflammation and improve skin’s ability to heal and recover from irritation. 
  1. Regulates pigmentation: Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can influence melanin production, impacting skin pigmentation. Imbalances can lead to hyperpigmentation issues like melasma, which is often triggered by hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or birth control use. 
  1. Supports a healthy skin barrier: Balanced hormones help maintain the integrity of the skin barrier, which protects against irritants, allergens, and pollutants. This barrier also keeps moisture in, preventing dryness and sensitivity. 

Maintaining hormonal balance can be achieved through stress management, a nutritious diet, regular exercise, quality sleep, and by taking supplements, or medical guidance. 

Image credit: Image by Jensen Art Co from Pixabay (CC0 Free to use under Pixabay content license) 

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Skin health, What our skin says, Gut health, Hormonal imbalance, Hydration and skin

Hydration Plays Crucial Role In Skin Health

Hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy, radiant skin. How staying well-hydrated benefits your skin: 

  1. Maintains skin elasticity and plumpness: Proper hydration keeps skin cells plump, which improves elasticity and makes skin appear smoother and more youthful. Hydrated skin is also less prone to fine lines and sagging. 
  1. Improves skin barrier function: Skin hydration strengthens the skin’s natural barrier, which protects against environmental pollutants, bacteria, and other irritants. This barrier is essential for preventing moisture loss and protecting against dryness. 
  1. Prevents dryness and flakiness: Dehydrated skin can become dry, flaky, and more prone to irritation. Drinking enough water and using hydrating skincare products helps keep the skin soft and smooth. 
  1. Reduces the appearance of pores and redness: Hydrated skin has better circulation, which can help minimize redness and reduce the appearance of pores. When skin is dry, pores may appear more pronounced, especially around the nose and cheeks. 
  1. Enhances skin tone and radiance: Water helps flush out toxins from the body, which can reduce dullness and improve the skin’s natural glow. Proper hydration gives the skin a fresh, radiant appearance. 
  1. Speeds up skin repair: Water is essential for cellular function, including skin repair and renewal. Staying hydrated helps your skin recover faster from cuts, blemishes, and other minor injuries. 

For optimal hydration, focus on drinking water throughout the day and include water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon, and citrus fruits. Hydrating skincare products, such as moisturizers with hyaluronic acid, can also lock in moisture and further enhance skin hydration. 

Image credit: mage by zeeshan Nawaz from Pixabay (CC0 -Free to use under Pixabay content license) 

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Dietary Components That Help Skin Health

Dietary Components That Help Skin Health

Diet plays a significant role in skin health by providing essential nutrients that support skin structure, hydration, and protection against damage. Various dietary components benefit the skin are: 

  1. Antioxidants for protection: Foods rich in antioxidants, like berries, dark leafy greens, and nuts, help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to premature aging and loss of elasticity. 
  1. Vitamin C for collagen production: Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis, helping to keep the skin firm and prevent wrinkles. Citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries are great sources. 
  1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids for hydration and anti-Inflammation: Found in foods like fatty fish (salmon, sardines), chia seeds, and flaxseeds, omega-3s help keep the skin hydrated and reduce inflammation, which can improve conditions like acne and eczema. 
  1. Vitamin E for skin repair: Vitamin E helps repair skin damage and is found in foods like almonds, sunflower seeds, and spinach. It acts as a natural barrier to protect the skin from UV damage and environmental stressors. 
  1. Zinc for healing and inflammation control: Zinc aids in wound healing and reduces inflammation, helping to clear acne and prevent skin irritation. It is found in pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and red meat. 
  1. Probiotics for Gut Health and Clear Skin: A healthy gut microbiome positively impacts skin health by reducing inflammation and supporting the skin barrier. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut can improve gut health and, in turn, skin clarity. 
  1. Water for hydration: Staying hydrated helps maintain skin moisture levels and reduce dryness, giving skin a more radiant appearance. Water-rich foods like cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon can also help. 

By consuming a balanced diet rich in these nutrients, you are providing your skin with the building blocks it needs to look and feel its best. 

Image credit: Image by Дарья Яковлева from Pixabay (CC0 – Free to use under Pixabay content license) 

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Our Skin Is Reflection Of Our Inner Health

Our Skin Is Reflection Of Our Inner Health

Our skin often mirrors the state of our internal health. Factors like nutrition, hydration, hormone balance, stress levels, and even gut health significantly influence our skin’s appearance. Following factors play major role in our skin health and appearance: 

  • Diet: Nutrients like vitamins C and E, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants support collagen production and protect the skin from damage. 
  • Hydration: Proper hydration helps maintain skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines. 
  • Hormone levels: Hormones like cortisol and estrogen play major roles. High cortisol (stress hormone) can lead to breakouts, while balanced estrogen supports elasticity. 
  • Gut health: A healthy gut microbiome can reduce inflammation and impact skin clarity. 
  • Exercising: To improve blood circulation, detoxification, and overall health of skin one must exercise.  

By caring for our internal health, we give our skin its best chance to look and feel healthy. 

References:  

Image credit: https://pixahive.com/photo/scared-indian-girl-2/ by Akshay Gupta (CC0 -Free to use) 

Dietary Components That Help Skin Health

Dietary Components That Help Skin Health

Hydration Plays Crucial Role In Skin Health

Skin health, What our skin says, Gut health, Hormonal imbalance, Hydration and skin

Balancing Hormones Is Key For Skin Health

Balancing Hormones Is Key For Skin Health

Gut And Skin Are Closely Connected -Gut Skin Axis

Gut And Skin Are Closely Connected -Gut Skin Axis

Regular Exercises Helps Skin To Glow

Regular Exercises Helps Skin To Glow
Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Mudras for women health

Practicing These Five Yoga Mudras Help Overall Vitality In Women

Mudras are hand gestures used in yoga. Practicing Mudras can be beneficial for women’s health by promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. There are many yoga mudras and practicing these hand gestures benefits in various conditions. Five mudras that can specifically help with common women’s health issues like stress, hormonal balance, and overall vitality are Yoni mudra, Surya mudra, Prana mudra, Apana mudra and Shakti mudra.

Benefits of practicing these five yoga mudras and how to practice them  can shed some light on this ancient practice that is originated in India. 

1. Yoni Mudra (Womb mudra)

  • Benefits: Yoni Mudra represents the womb and feminine energy. It helps to balance the reproductive system, reduce menstrual discomfort, and promote a calm, meditative state. It also assists in emotional balance and grounding.
  • How to perform? Bring the tips of the index fingers together and the tips of the thumbs together, forming a triangle. The other fingers are folded inward. Hold the mudra at the navel level.

2. Surya Mudra (Mudra of the Sun)

  • Benefits: This mudra boosts metabolism, reduces excess weight, and increases body warmth. It also helps regulate menstrual cycles and improves digestion, benefiting overall hormonal balance.
  • How to perform? Fold the ring finger towards the palm and press it with the thumb while keeping the other fingers straight. Hold this for 10-15 minutes a day.

3. Prana Mudra (Mudra of life)

  • Benefits: Prana Mudra helps energize the body and boosts vitality. It supports the immune system, balances emotions, and reduces fatigue, making it great for women who feel drained or stressed.
  • How to perform? Touch the tips of the thumb, ring finger, and little finger together, while keeping the other two fingers straight. Practice for at least 15-20 minutes daily.

4. Apana Mudra (Mudra of digestion)

  • Benefits: This mudra aids in digestion, detoxification, and cleansing of the body. It is especially beneficial for relieving menstrual pain, supporting reproductive health, and easing digestive problems.
  • How to perform? Touch the tips of the middle finger and ring finger to the thumb, while the index and little fingers remain extended. Hold for 10-15 minutes daily.

5. Shakti Mudra (Mudra of power)

  • Benefits: Shakti Mudra helps to relax the pelvic area, making it beneficial for menstrual cramps and lower back pain. It also induces a deep state of relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety.
  • How to perform? Fold the thumb inside the palm, cover it with the ring and little fingers, and then bring the tips of the index and middle fingers together. Hold this mudra for 10-15 minutes.

These mudras can be practiced daily to promote overall well-being, hormonal balance, and emotional stability for women. Pairing them with deep, mindful breathing enhances their effects.

Image credit: Woman: Image by pxby666 from Pixabay (Free under Pixabay content license)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: October 31, 2024
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Analogue paneer fake paneer

Zomato Receives Backlash Over Analogue Paneer – Know About Analogue Paneer

“Analogue paneer” refers to a substitute for traditional paneer (Indian cottage cheese) made with alternative ingredients, often to reduce costs or suit specific dietary needs. It might use vegetable oils, soy protein, or other dairy alternatives to mimic the texture and taste of paneer but with different nutritional content. Some manufacturers produce analogue paneer to cater to vegan consumers or to reduce production costs compared to dairy based paneer.

Recently Indian restaurant industry Zomato received backlash for using analogue paneer in its food. Zomato is an Indian multinational restaurant aggregator and food delivery company. It connects users with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and other food vendors and provides online ordering, delivery, table reservations, and reviews. It is a Food delivery industry in India and has expanded its services internationally, becoming one of the major players in the food tech industry.

While analogue paneer may offer a lower-cost, plant-based option, it is typically less nutritious than traditional paneer and can contain ingredients that might not support overall health when consumed regularly.

Analogue paneer is considered less healthy for consumption than traditional paneer due to following reasons:

  1. Lower nutritional value: Traditional paneer is made from milk and is rich in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. Analogue paneer, on the other hand, is typically made from vegetable oils and other fillers, which may lack the protein and calcium content found in dairy-based paneer.
  2. High in trans fats and saturated Fats: Some analogue paneers use hydrogenated vegetable oils, which can be high in trans fats. Trans fats are known to raise bad cholesterol (LDL) and lower good cholesterol (HDL), increasing the risk of heart disease, inflammation, and other health issues.
  3. Added preservatives and fillers: To improve shelf life and texture, manufacturers often add artificial preservatives, stabilizers, and emulsifiers. Some of these additives may be harmful if consumed regularly, as they can disrupt digestion and may have other adverse health effects over time.
  4. Digestibility: Analogue paneer may be harder to digest for some individuals, especially if it contains elevated levels of processed ingredients or additives. Traditional paneer, on the other hand, is more easily digestible for most people due to its natural composition.
  5. Possible allergenic ingredients: Some analogue paneers use soy or other plant-based proteins that can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Traditional paneer is less likely to cause allergies, although it does contain lactose, which can be an issue for those who are lactose intolerant.

Why did Zomato receive the backlash over using analogue paneer?

The use of analogue paneer by restaurants, particularly without clear labeling, has sparked significant backlash among consumers. Main reasons for the backlash-,

  1. Lack of transparency: Customers expect traditional dairy-based paneer in their dishes, but analogue paneer is sometimes used without disclosure. This lack of transparency is seen as misleading, especially when the product differs nutritionally and taste-wise from authentic paneer.
  2. Health concerns: Many consumers are concerned about the health effects of analogue paneer, particularly if it contains hydrogenated oils or additives that may impact cholesterol levels, digestion, and overall health. For those specifically looking for high protein or calcium rich food options, the use of lower-quality substitutes can be a disappointment.
  3. Trust and quality issues: Using an analogue paneer can hurt a restaurant’s reputation, as customers may feel the quality is being compromised to cut costs. This has led to negative reviews, customer complaints, and even boycotts in some cases.
  4. Misalignment with dietary preferences: Some analogue paneers are not vegan or lactose-free (eg. they may use casein, a milk protein), leading to further frustration for those who have dietary restrictions or preferences.

This backlash has put pressure on food delivery platforms like Zomato to encourage restaurants to disclose when they use substitutes. Some regions and food authorities are also exploring regulatory measures to require clearer labeling and enforce stricter quality standards for analogue food products.

In many places, labeling regulations require restaurants or sellers to disclose the use of substitutes like analogue paneer to help consumers make informed choices.

If you are concerned about receiving analogue paneer in an order, you might consider:

  1. Reading descriptions carefully: Some menus specify if they use dairy free or vegan substitutes, so checking the dish description might provide hints.
  2. Contacting the restaurant: Asking the restaurant directly if they use traditional paneer or an analogue can give clarity, especially if dietary needs or health concerns are a factor.
  3. Reading reviews or comments: Occasionally, other customers may mention it if they notice analogue paneer being used, so reviews on Zomato itself can sometimes provide insights.

Awareness about food transparency is increasing, so Zomato and other delivery platforms may start being more explicit about such ingredients to support informed consumer choices.

References:

www.opindia.com

www.timesofindia.com

www.economictimes.com

Image credit: https://pixahive.com/photo/paneer-roll/ (CC0 free to use)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: October 30, 2024
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Ayurveda day 2024

Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health – Ayurveda Day 2024

“Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health” gives new dimensions to the contribution of Ayurveda for Humanity.

150 countries to celebrate ‘Ayurveda Day 2024’ on 29th October

The Ministry of Ayush is all set to celebrate 9thAyurveda Day on 29.10.2024. This year more than 150 countries across the globe have geared up for Ayurveda Day that is being celebrated around the theme “Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health”. On this occasion, the ministry of Ayush is going to organize a grand event at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi .

Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State, Ayush (I/C), Ministry of Ayush talked about the significance of Ayurveda Day and said, “Ayurveda Day has now become a global movement. We are proud to learn that as many as 150 countries are expected to join Ayurveda Day celebrations 2024. He also highlighted the focus of the Ministry while underlining the theme of Ayurveda Day 2024 and added “The theme of this year’s Ayurveda Day celebrations gives new dimensions to the contribution of Ayurveda to global health. Our aim is to promote Ayurveda globally as a robust system of medicine for the welfare of public. Under this, the All India Institute of Ayurveda has initiated a month-long programme across the country.”

While highlighting the vision of Ministry, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush said, “Through the Ayurveda Day celebrations, Ayush focuses on integrating Ayurveda with contemporary science to address critical health issues including non-communicable diseases, mental health, antimicrobial resistance, and geriatric care.”

Talking about the latest initiatives of the Ministry, he further added, “Ayurveda knowledge is made conveniently accessible to public through digital platforms under the umbrella of Ayush Grid including major initiatives such as Ayurgyan Scheme, Ayush Research Portal, and Namaste Portal.” Currently, Ayurveda is recognized in as many as 24 countries across the globe, while Ayurveda products are exported to over 100 countries”.

This year’s celebration will witness significant participation from startups and industry, positioning Ayurveda at the heart of global health innovation. Leading Ayurveda experts have expressed their thoughts and hopes for this important event. Ayush professionals are particularly enthusiastic about this year’s celebrations on the theme surrounding innovation in Ayurveda.

Dr. Manoj Nesari, Advisor, Ministry of Ayush and Director, North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda and Homeopathy (NEIAH), Shillong, said, “The theme ‘Ayurveda Innovation for Global Health’ has been specifically chosen to highlight the huge research work done in Ayurveda to establish the scientific relevance of Ayurveda in promotion of health and treatment of various disease conditions. This also highlights the relevance of Ayurveda for the healthcare of the people across the globe irrespective of their religion, ethnicity, social status and geographical boundaries. The special focus in innovation would attract and inspire our youngsters to indulge in Ayurveda and establish startups. I also see lots of vibration and enthusiasm in the people of North East states and rising acceptance of Ayurveda in all North East states.”

Dr. Mohan Singh, Director Ayush, Jammu & Kashmir, stated, “Given the theme of this year’s celebrations, we are all excited to be part of the Ayurveda Day 2024 activities. We anticipate an extraordinary confluence of professionals, researchers, and startups, all dedicated to creating a healthier, more sustainable world through the power of Ayurveda.”

Dr. Sanjeev Sharma, Vice Chancellor of the National Institute of Ayurveda, added, “The commitment and passion of our students and scholars who are preparing for the Ayurveda Day 2024 celebrations is inspiring. This would be an opportunity to explore new dimensions of holistic health, where ancient wisdom combines with modern innovation for global health.”

Dr. B.J. Patagiri, Director, Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) mentioned, “The participation of students, scholars, and innovators in this year’s celebration is a testament to how tradition and innovation together can revolutionize global health.”

Ministry of Ayush continues to work toward integrating Ayurveda into the mainstream of global health. Initiatives such as the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC), Ayushman Bharat Yojana, and the Research Centre for Innovation in Ayurveda Biology are advancing Ayurveda’s role in the global health system. Additionally, the reactivated “I Support Ayurveda” Campaign aims to garner over 250 million votes in support of Ayurveda. Last year’s campaign was a tremendous success, with 160 million votes.

As the world moves toward Ayurveda Day on 29thOctober 2024, the Ministry of Ayush, its partner institutions, professionals, and Ayurveda enthusiasts around the globe are excited for this unique celebration. Through innovation and collaboration, Ayurveda is poised to offer sustainable solutions for global health and well-being.

It is to note that the celebration of Ayurveda Day takes place annually on the auspicious occasion of Dhanvantari Jayanti (Dhanteras). Since inception in 2016, Ayurveda Day has gained global significance. This year’s celebrations are filled with energy and enthusiasm, culminating in a closing ceremony on 29th October 2024. Throughout the month, various events and activities are being organised nationwide, highlighting the importance of Ayurveda in health promotion and disease prevention.

For more read: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2067357

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

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: October 29, 2024
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