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September 2024

How Including Nuts & Seeds in a Nutritious Diet Can Help Lower Cholesterol

By Cholesterol No Comments

Cholesterol is a type of fat that is present in every cell of our body. It serves a crucial function in the
body such as formation of cell membranes, production of several hormones, and the synthesis of
Vitamin D. These functions are vital for maintaining overall health and supporting various bodily
processes.
Liver makes most of the cholesterol that our body needs and the rest of it is sourced from
animal-based foods such as beef, pork, lamb, processed meat like sausages, whole milk, cream, butter,
fried foods, cakes, biscuits, etc.

There are 2 types of cholesterol:

● HDL Cholesterol:

HDL cholesterol is often called “good” cholesterol because it helps transport excess cholesterol from the bloodstream back to the liver, where it is broken down and eliminated from the body.

● LDL Cholesterol:

LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can lead to the accumulation of fatty deposits in the arteries, known as atherosclerosis. This buildup narrows the arteries, raising the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease.
High cholesterol is mainly influenced by dietary habits, such as eating foods high in saturated and trans fats. A sedentary lifestyle, being overweight, smoking, and drinking alcohol can also contribute significantly. Furthermore, genetic factors can predispose some individuals to high cholesterol levels, making it a hereditary issue for some families.
High cholesterol typically does not present any symptoms, which is why it’s often referred to as a “silent” condition. Many people are unaware of their cholesterol levels until they undergo a blood test.

Normal level of Cholesterol are as follows:


Nuts and seeds are packed with beneficial nutrients that play a significant role in cholesterol management. Let’s explore how nuts and seeds can support your heart health and contribute to a balanced diet.

● Healthy Fats:

Nuts and seeds are good sources of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). These healthy fats are effective at lowering LDL cholesterol, while simultaneously boosting HDL cholesterol.

● Phytosterols:

Found in plant-based foods like nuts and seeds, phytosterols are compounds that play a crucial role in reducing cholesterol absorption in the intestines. By blocking this absorption, they help lower overall cholesterol levels, promoting better heart health.

● Dietary Fibre:

Many nuts and seeds are excellent sources of dietary fibre. This fibre helps lower cholesterol absorption in the bloodstream and contributes to a healthy digestive system, both of which are vital for overall health.

● Polyphenols:

Nuts and seeds are abundant in antioxidants called polyphenols, which can enhance heart health by minimizing inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are linked to cardiovascular diseases.

Here are some tips for incorporating nuts and seeds into your diet:

Snack Smart: Keep a mix of nuts or seeds on hand for a nutritious snack throughout the day.
Boost Breakfast: Add nuts or seeds to the oatmeal, yoghurt, or smoothie bowls for added texture and nutrients.
Elevate Salads: Sprinkle nuts or seeds on salads for a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.
Nut Butters: Spread almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter on toast or use it as a dip for fruits and veggies.
Cereal Upgrade: Enhance the breakfast cereal or granola with nuts and seeds for an added nutrient boost.
Energy Bites: Make energy bites by blending nuts, seeds, oats, and natural sweeteners for a quick snack.
Homemade Trail Mix: Create a trail mix with a combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and dark chocolate for a satisfying on-the-go treat.
Smoothie Boost: Blend nuts or seeds into smoothies for enhanced creaminess and nutritional value.

In conclusion, including nuts and seeds in your diet is an excellent way to enhance heart health and effectively manage cholesterol levels. These nutrient-dense foods provide healthy fats, phytosterols, dietary fibre, and antioxidants, all of which work together to support cardiovascular wellness. By making small adjustments, such as snacking on nuts, adding seeds to smoothies, or enhancing salads, one can easily boost the intake of these beneficial foods.
Ultimately, adopting a balanced diet that includes nuts and seeds, along with maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can lead to improved cholesterol levels and overall health.

Managing PCOS and Weight Gain: The Crucial Role of Diet

By PCOS and PCOD Management, Weightloss diet No Comments

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting as many as 15% to
18% of women of reproductive age, ranking it among the most common hormonal conditions. It
affects about one in 10 women. This complex syndrome manifests through a range of symptoms
linked to hormonal imbalances, especially insulin resistance and heightened androgen levels (often
referred to as male hormones).

Typical Symptoms Associated With PCOS:

Irregular menstrual cycle-

Women with PCOS frequently encounter irregular, infrequent, or
extended menstrual cycles. This may manifest as periods occurring more than 35 days apart
or fewer than eight cycles in a year.

Ovarian cyst-

Multiple small cysts can develop in the ovaries when follicles fail to mature and
release eggs. This disruption is often linked to higher levels of androgens, which impairs the
typical functions of ovaries.

Weight gain-

Increased insulin levels can contribute to weight gain by enhancing hunger,
facilitating fat storage, and hindering the body’s ability to break down stored fat.

Hirsutism-

Higher levels of androgens can cause increased hair growth in areas like the face,
chest, and back, typically associated with male-pattern hair growth.

Acne-

Increased androgen levels can make the skin oilier than normal, often resulting in acne
flare-ups, especially on the face, chest, and upper back.

Alopecia-

Androgenic alopecia, commonly known as male-pattern baldness, can affect
women with PCOS and is directly linked to the elevated androgen levels.

Acanthosis Nigricans-

Darkened patches of skin, especially in areas like the neck, groin, and
under the breasts is known as acanthosis nigricans, can indicate insulin resistance and are often
observed in women with PCOS.

● Few other symptoms include depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, food cravings, infertility,
etc.

Managing PCOS typically focuses on correcting hormonal imbalances through lifestyle changes,
including a balanced diet and regular exercise. Additionally, medications and oral supplements for
women may be used to regulate menstrual cycles, tackle insulin resistance, and lower androgen levels.

Link between PCOS and Weight Gain:

The connection between obesity and PCOS is quite multifaceted. Women with PCOS frequently
experience insulin resistance, which can contribute to weight gain. This additional weight can further
intensify PCOS symptoms, perpetuating a challenging cycle.
Carrying excess weight often leads to increased inflammation and hormonal imbalances, which can
worsen issues such as irregular menstrual cycles and excessive hair growth. On the other hand, the
metabolic difficulties that come with PCOS can make weight management more challenging, resulting
in a higher incidence of obesity among affected women.
To address both weight and PCOS symptoms, adopting lifestyle changes like a balanced diet and
regular exercise can be beneficial. In some cases, medical interventions may be needed to effectively
manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Here are some effective weight management strategies for women with PCOS:

Eat a balanced diet-

A well-balanced meal plan that focuses on non-starchy vegetables, fruits,
lean proteins, healthy carbohydrates, and low-fat dairy can be beneficial for individuals with
PCOS.

Choose low GI foods-

Eating low GI foods may help in PCOS as it prevents the spike in
blood glucose levels and reduces insulin resistance. Meat, poultry, eggs, nuts, beans, and
some fruits and vegetables typically have low GI values.

Have small frequent meals-

To maintain a consistent blood glucose levels, small frequent
meals, that is about every 4 hours is recommended.

Include Omega- 3 rich foods-

Omega-3 fatty acids are known to reduce inflammation and act
as powerful antioxidants. They help manage blood pressure and blood glucose levels, which
can support weight loss in individuals who are overweight. Furthermore, these fatty acids help
regulate hormone levels, which may improve fertility. Fatty fish, walnuts, chia seeds, hemp
seeds, and flaxseeds are among the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

Physical activity-

Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for managing PCOS. It can
alleviate symptoms and lower the risk of long-term health issues like type 2 diabetes and
cardiovascular disease. It has multiple benefits such as:
○ Enhanced energy levels and overall fitness
○ Effective weight loss and maintenance
○ Boosted self-confidence and motivation
○ Better emotional well-being
○ Decreased androgen production and insulin resistance
○ More regular menstrual cycles
○ Improved fertility outcomes
A combination of cardio exercise and muscle strength activity is recommended.

Supplements

Numerous vitamins and herbal supplements have been researched for their
potential benefits in managing PCOS which include Chromium, Curcumin, Vitamin D,
Inositol, Berberine, CoQ10, etc.

In summary, effectively managing PCOS and related weight gain relies on a personalized,
well-balanced diet. Focusing on whole foods such as non-starchy vegetables, lean proteins, and
healthy fats can help regulate insulin levels, reduce inflammation, and promote hormonal balance. In
addition to a nutritious diet, incorporating regular physical activity can further enhance management
strategies. By focusing on these dietary choices, individuals with PCOS can enhance their overall
health, alleviate symptoms, and cultivate a greater sense of well-being.

Weight Loss Diet Plan for Women Over 40: Balancing Hormones and Boosting Metabolism

By Weight Loss & Gain Management, Weightloss diet No Comments

Aging is a normal process that brings about various changes in women’s life specially metabolic and hormonal changes after 40 years of age.

The hormonal changes include fluctuations of hormones as the body shifts towards menopause. During this period,  there are changes in various hormones including estrogen and progesterone (sex hormones), thyroid and cortisol (stress hormone).

    • Estrogen- The level of estrogen starts dropping after 40 years of age. This can cause various symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, vaginal dryness, etc. Low level of estrogen also increases the risk of heart diseases as well as osteoporosis.
    • Progesterone- The level of progesterone decreases with age. Symptoms include headache, depression, irregular menstruation,  trouble sleeping, weight gain, etc.
    • Thyroid- Thyroid dysfunction is common in women above 40 years of age. Low levels of thyroid hormones can lead to hypothyroidism whereas higher levels of thyroid hormones are seen in hyperthyroidism.
    • Cortisol- The levels of cortisol increases during this period due to a number of factors including age, stress and low estrogen levels. Symptoms include weight gain, low energy, insomnia, food cravings,  mood change, etc.

Metabolism is a process by which the body changes food into energy which drops by 40 years of age due to various hormonal changes. Due to aging, there is decline in anabolic hormones which result in reduced muscle mass which is the main predictor of Metabolism.

These hormonal and metabolic changes lead to Obesity, Insulin resistance, Impaired glucose tolerance, Dyslipidemia, Osteoporosis, Poor immune function, Atherosclerosis and Chronic inflammation.

Though aging is a natural process, there are various lifestyle strategies that can help women over 40 years to maintain their metabolic and hormonal balance and promote overall health & well being.

    • Diet- A healthy, well balanced and nutritious diet is essential. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk products and lean protein in the diet. Avoid outside, processed and refined foods as it can lead to hormonal imbalance. Few nutrients that play an important role are:

      • Calcium: Low level of estrogen reduces the bone density and increases the urinary excretion of calcium. Therefore, include calcium rich foods in the diet such as milk and milk products, millets,  dark green leafy vegetables,  nuts and oil seeds , etc.
      • Vitamin D: Vitamin D regulates the production of estrogen and progesterone. It is also important for bone health. Sunlight exposure is one of the best source of Vitamin D. Foods like fatty fish, egg yolk,  mushroom,  and fortified cereals also contain a good amount of Vitamin D.
      • Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. It reduces stress, supports the immune system and plays an important role in collagen production. It also helps in easing hot flashes. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables such as amla,  guava, berries, bell pepper, broccoli, spinach, etc.  in the diet.
      • B Vitamins: B vitamins especially Vitamin B9 and B12 plays an important role as it reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases and helps in hormonal balance. Other B vitamins such as vitamin B6, niacin, thiamine and riboflavin supports metabolism, improves energy level and helps in insomnia. Milk, poultry,  fish,  whole grains, legumes and seeds are some of the sources of B vitamins.
      • Omega- 3 Fatty Acids: It is an essential fatty acid that helps in smooth transition towards menopause due to its numerous health benefits. It reduces the inflammation, vaginal dryness,  hot flashes and plays an important role in weight management. It also improves mood and cognitive function. It also has cardioprotective properties. Foods that provide a good amount of Omega 3 include mackerel, salmon, sardines, flax seeds,  walnuts, hemp seeds, chia seeds, brussel sprouts, soybean, edamame, etc.
    • Sleep- Insomnia is a common problem that is associated with aging. It can be due to hot flashes, anxiety, medical issues, etc. Follow a regular sleep schedule, avoid daytime naps, indulge in regular physical activity,  avoid caffeine 4 to 6 hours before bed, manage stress, etc.

    • Physical activity- Exercise plays an important role in overall well- being. It helps in maintaining weight, improves heart health, promotes good sleep, reduces anxiety, improves mood and supports bone health. Aerobic exercises such as swimming, running, dancing improve cardiovascular health; whereas strength training such as squats, planks,  push ups, etc. improves bone and mental health.

Conclusion : As women age, particularly after 40, they experience important hormonal and metabolic changes that can impact their health. Understanding these changes like declines in estrogen and progesterone, can help women manage symptoms effectively. Emphasizing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and quality sleep can help alleviate many symptoms associated with menopause. By adopting these strategies, women can confidently navigate this stage and turn the challenges of aging into opportunities for growth and vitality.

Common Symptoms of Diabetes: What You Should Know

By Cholesterol No Comments

Diabetes is a condition where the body has trouble managing blood sugar (glucose) levels. There are three main types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes (which occurs during pregnancy). Each type can cause different symptoms, but some are common to all. Recognizing these symptoms early can help prevent serious health problems. Here are the key signs of diabetes:

Frequent Urination

One of the most common symptoms of diabetes is needing to urinate often. High blood sugar levels make your kidneys work harder to get rid of the extra glucose. This can lead to more trips to the bathroom, especially at night.

Feeling Thirsty All the Time

Because you’re losing more fluids through frequent urination, you may feel thirsty all the time. Even if you drink a lot of water, this thirst can continue. This is often one of the earliest signs of diabetes.

Unexplained Weight Loss

If you’re losing weight without trying, it could be a symptom of diabetes, especially Type 1 diabetes. In this condition, the body can’t use glucose for energy, so it starts burning fat and muscle instead. This leads to weight loss, even if you are eating normally.

Constant Hunger

Diabetes can make you feel hungry more often, even after you’ve eaten. This happens because your body is not able to properly use the glucose from your food for energy, so it keeps sending signals that you need more food.

Fatigue or Tiredness

Feeling tired all the time is another common sign of diabetes. Your body isn’t getting the energy it needs from glucose, which leaves you feeling drained, even if you’re resting or sleeping well.

Blurry Vision

High blood sugar can affect your eyesight, causing blurry vision. This happens when glucose levels cause swelling in the lenses of your eyes. If left untreated, this can lead to more serious eye problems.

Slow Healing of Wounds

If you notice that cuts, bruises, or infections are taking longer to heal than usual, it could be a sign of diabetes. High blood sugar can slow down blood circulation and weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to heal.

Frequent Infections

People with diabetes are more prone to infections, such as skin infections, urinary tract infections, and yeast infections. High blood sugar creates an environment where bacteria and fungi can grow more easily, making it harder for your body to fight them off.

Tingling or Numbness

Tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation in your hands or feet can be a sign of diabetic nerve damage. This is called diabetic neuropathy and is more common in Type 2 diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar damages the nerves over time.

Symptoms Specific to Type 1 Diabetes

For those with Type 1 diabetes, symptoms often appear suddenly and can be severe. In addition to the above, they may experience:

  • Rapid weight loss
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which causes nausea, vomiting, fruity-smelling breath, and confusion. DKA is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Symptoms Specific to Type 2 Diabetes

Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes tend to appear slowly and may be harder to notice. One unique symptom of Type 2 diabetes is the appearance of dark patches of skin, often in areas like the neck or armpits. This is called acanthosis nigricans and can be an early warning sign.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and often does not have noticeable symptoms. It is usually diagnosed through routine blood sugar tests during prenatal checkups.

Conclusion

Diabetes can cause a wide range of symptoms, from frequent urination to unexplained weight loss and fatigue. Early detection and treatment are key to managing diabetes effectively and avoiding serious health problems. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper testing and advice.

How to Choose the Best Diet for You

By Cholesterol, Diabetes Management, Fitness, PCOS and PCOD Management, Pregnancy, Thyroid, Weight Loss & Gain Management No Comments

Choosing the right diet can be overwhelming with the myriad of options available today. Each diet plan promises different benefits, but the best diet is one that fits your lifestyle, goals, and health needs. Here’s how to make an informed decision to choose a diet that works for you.

1. Identify Your Goals

The first step in choosing a diet is to clearly define your goals. Are you looking to lose weight, gain muscle, improve overall health, or manage a specific condition? Each goal may require a different nutritional approach. For example, a low-carb diet might help with weight loss, while the DASH diet is ideal for lowering blood pressure. Be specific about what you want to achieve.

2. Consider Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle plays a crucial role in determining the best diet for you. Think about your daily routine, cooking habits, and activity levels. If you’re always on the go, a diet that requires extensive meal preparation may not be sustainable. On the other hand, if you love cooking, a plan like the Mediterranean diet that emphasizes home-cooked meals might be a great fit.

  • Busy schedules: Intermittent fasting or meal delivery services
  • Active lifestyles: High-protein diets like paleo or keto
  • Family considerations: Diets that allow flexibility, like the flexitarian diet

3. Evaluate Nutritional Needs

Your body has unique nutritional requirements, which should be taken into account when choosing a diet. For example, if you have a medical condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, certain diets may be more suitable than others. Always consider your overall health when making a decision.

  • Diabetics: Low-carb diets that stabilize blood sugar
  • High blood pressure: DASH diet
  • Heart health: Mediterranean diet rich in healthy fats

It’s also essential to consider your body’s response to different foods. If you’re lactose intolerant, a plant-based or paleo diet that eliminates dairy could be beneficial. Listen to your body and pick a diet that complements your health status.

4. Prioritize Sustainability

One of the biggest reasons diets fail is because they are not sustainable. It’s easy to follow a strict plan for a short period, but the real challenge is sticking to it long-term. Ask yourself whether the diet you’re considering is one you can maintain for the long haul. If it feels too restrictive or complicated, it might not be the best fit for you.

  • Long-term sustainability: Focus on balance and moderation (Mediterranean, plant-based)
  • Short-term fixes: Diets like keto or Whole30 can be effective but may be hard to maintain

5. Flexibility is Key

A diet that allows some degree of flexibility can make it easier to stick with. Rigidity often leads to frustration and burnout. Flexible eating plans like the flexitarian or Weight Watchers allow you to indulge occasionally while still maintaining overall healthy eating habits. The goal is to develop a healthy relationship with food that doesn’t involve guilt or deprivation.

6. Consult with a Professional

Before starting any new diet, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist. They can help assess your specific needs and provide personalized advice. This is especially important if you have pre-existing conditions or are looking to make significant changes to your eating habits.

7. Assess Your Relationship with Food

Understanding your relationship with food is vital in choosing the best diet for you. Some people eat emotionally, while others have specific cravings. A diet that helps you manage your emotions around food and promotes mindful eating, like the Whole30 or intermittent fasting, might be a good choice if emotional eating is a concern.

8. Test and Adjust

No diet is one-size-fits-all, and it may take some trial and error to find the best fit. It’s okay to try a diet for a few weeks and see how you feel. If it’s not working, don’t hesitate to adjust your approach. Remember that the goal is to create a lifestyle change, not just a quick fix. Be patient with yourself and be willing to make adjustments as needed.

Conclusion

Choosing the best diet for you is about more than just following the latest trend. It requires a deep understanding of your goals, lifestyle, health needs, and preferences. Prioritize sustainability, flexibility, and nutritional balance, and consult with a professional to make sure the diet is safe and suitable for your individual needs. Most importantly, remember that the best diet is the one that helps you feel healthy and happy in the long run.

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