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Bollywood Health Lite Blogs

Fitness Icons of Bollywood

To keep those paycheques raining, Bollywood personalities put in a lot of hard work in their fitness and physical attractiveness. Some choose to go to doctors for a snip and tuck and other spend time sweating it out in the gym, here’s a look at a select few are included who have inspired millions of followers worldwide by continuing to be physically active to ensure they keep up appearances. 

Anil Kapoor

Anil Kapoor is renowned for his extraordinary physical well-being, vitality, and perpetual youth. Even at sixty, he still keeps a trim and nimble body. Cardiovascular exercises such as jogging, cycling, swimming, and brisk walking are all part of Kapoor’s fitness regimen.

Suniel Shetty

Suniel Shetty is renowned for his commitment to physical well-being and the upkeep of a toned physique. His routine for physical fitness consists of martial arts, functional training, and controlled eating.

Alia Bhatt

Alia Bhatt is renowned for her toned body and focus health and fitness. To shed those postpartum kilos, adhered to a strict fitness routine that included a variety of exercises, functional training, and a well-balanced diet.

John Abraham

To build and maintain his muscular physique, John Abraham combines weight training, rigorous workouts, and clean diet.

Tiger Shroff

Tiger Shroff’s exceptional agility, suppleness, and martial arts prowess are well-known. To get his well-defined body, he follows a strict diet, martial arts training, and rigorous exercise routine.

Shilpa Shetty

Shilpa Shetty is a living example of elegance, grace, and physical fitness. Her quest to keep her body, mind, and physical fitness in good condition has been greatly aided by her dedication to yoga. Shetty combines Ashtanga, hot, and power yoga in her practice.

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Health Lite Blogs

Managing Diabetes During Ramadan

Dr. Anil Ballani, MBBS, MD, Consultant Physician, P.D. Hinduja and Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai said, “According to a recent ICMR study, 101 million people in India are living with diabetes, underscoring the importance of effective holistic management…reports Asian Lite News

As the crescent moon signals the arrival of Ramadan, millions around the world will embark on a month-long journey of prayer and reflection.

For those with diabetes, however, this sacred period brings forth a unique set of challenges. Balancing religious obligations with health considerations can be daunting, yet essential for maintaining well-being during this holiest month of the Islamic calendar.

Fasting from dawn until sunset is a fundamental pillar of Ramadan. However, for individuals managing diabetes, this abstinence from food and drink can cause fluctuations in blood glucose levels.

To sustain energy levels and nourish the body, rituals include pre-dawn meals and evening feasts. However, for individuals with diabetes, these meals require careful consideration to prevent any sudden spikes or drops. Alongside a well-balanced nutritional plan, regular monitoring is important for people living with diabetes.

Accurate and real-time blood glucose readings can be constantly tracked with the help of prick-free devices like continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). This combination of a balanced diet and regular monitoring is essential for those fasting during this time, ensuring effective management of blood glucose levels throughout the holy month.

Dr. Anil Ballani, MBBS, MD, Consultant Physician, P.D. Hinduja and Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai said, “According to a recent ICMR study, 101 million people in India are living with diabetes, underscoring the importance of effective holistic management.

Amidst the sacred observance of Ramadan, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) emerges as an ally for people living with diabetes. Through real-time tracking of blood sugar levels, CGM empowers individuals to identify and manage any glucose spikes associated with pre-and post-fast meals.

By harnessing CGM insights, people can make informed diet decisions. This can help them navigate the portion sizes and meal timing along with making diabetes-specific nutrition choices that can address their needs. The symbiotic relationship between CGM data and dietary decisions fosters both effective blood glucose management and a sense of empowerment.

Here are a few tips to manage your diabetes while you observe Ramadan this year:

Regularly monitor blood glucose levels: It is extremely important to consistently check your blood glucose levels. CGM devices support real-time glucose monitoring instead of capturing blood sugar levels at a particular point in time.

The data is easily accessible on your smartphone, too, and can support easier decision-making related to food, physical activity, and therapy. Utilizing data from these devices can enable individuals to take corrective actions with the meal plan and maintain health during this period.

Properly recharge your body with nutrients during Iftar: According to tradition, the fast is broken with dates and fruits, which is followed by a properly balanced meal. Make sure to drink water and hydrate yourself well, and avoid highly caffeinated or sugary drinks like coffee, tea, and soft drinks.

It is important to have a stable meal plan striking a balance between intake of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. Have more nutrients and fibre-rich starchy foods like oats, multigrain bread, vegetables, lentils (dal), and proteins like fish, tofu, and nuts.

Additionally, you can have diabetes-specific oral nutritional supplements as an evening snack during Iftar (or even at the time of Sehri). Such scientifically formulated supplements, with high-quality protein and vital nutrients, have a slow-release energy system which helps manage one’s blood glucose, hunger, and energy levels. Consult your doctor to select the right solutions for your nutritional needs.

Keep your body moving: Physical activity is as important as proper diabetes nutrition, it is also essential to maintain good health. In addition to eating right during fasting, staying fit through regular exercise is a great way to manage diabetes.

It’s recommended to avoid overexertion and aggressive workouts (especially during the last few hours of fasting). Instead, just do simple workouts of around 30 minutes. This could include walking or yoga.

Improve your sleep schedule: Ramadan often involves staying up late with friends and family. However, getting adequate hours of good-quality sleep is crucial in maintaining good health.

It also helps people avoid sleep deprivation, which can negatively impact your hunger or craving levels. Also, sleep plays an important role in supporting immunity, metabolism, and regulating blood glucose levels, which is essential when managing diabetes.

There is never a challenge that cannot be managed with a dedicated action plan. These four simple steps can help you feel healthy despite long hours of fasting.

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Food Health Lite Blogs

The Millet Revolution

In comparison to other high-input crops, millets have a reduced carbon footprint, which implies they demand less irrigation and synthetic fertilizer, making them a good choice for farmers in developing countries, where poverty and environmental degradation are major factors…writes  Dr. Siddharth Chaturvedi

Millets, a diverse group of small-seeded, hardy grains, have been an integral part of India’s agricultural landscape and dietary traditions for thousands of years. Because of their resilience and suitability for India’s varied agro-climatic conditions, millets require little in the way of inputs and water to thrive. India is the highest producer and consumer of millets worldwide. Its leadership in mainstreaming millet production and consumption opens practical solutions to addressing global hunger and malnutrition. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had declared 2023 as the Year of Millets as did the United Nations. The hardy grains have been at the front of the Indian government’s food push throughout this year. It was also the highlight during the G20 Summit. A special menu featuring Millets dishes was served to the delegates who attended the G20 Summit in Delhi. Recently, the government has announced that it plans to increase the procurement of millets threefold to 2 million tonnes in this financial year. 

Here are 5 reasons why you should add millet into your daily diet:

Nutritional Significance: Millets are an excellent source of protein and dietary fibre, and they are high in important minerals including iron, calcium, and phosphorus. They are also a great option for people with dietary restrictions and gluten sensitivity as they are a healthier substitute for commonly used cereals like wheat flour and all-purpose flour.

Environmental Impact: In comparison to other high-input crops, millets have a reduced carbon footprint, which implies they demand less irrigation and synthetic fertilizer, making them a good choice for farmers in developing countries, where poverty and environmental degradation are major factors.

Promotes Sustainability: Beyond their nutritional value, millets contribute significantly to sustainable agriculture that enhances soil health and biodiversity. In addition to enhancing agricultural land’s long-term productivity, this serves to conserve the environment. Due to their low water requirement, their ability to thrive in semi-arid conditions makes them ideal for regions facing water scarcity, contributing to water conservation in agriculture and promoting food security.

Climate Resilience: As millets require little water, they are very tolerant of a wide range of environmental conditions, including drought and high temperatures. Because of their durability, they are less vulnerable to changes in the climate, which helps to maintain stable agricultural production even under adverse conditions. They are ideal for farmers with little land or water resources because of their short growth cycle.

Traditional and Cultural Importance: Millets have long been an integral part of diets in many cultures. They serve as the foundation for various traditional recipes and cuisines deeply rooted in cultural practices and celebrations, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and success.  While millets have varied cultural significance across various regions, they are perpetually significant in many communities, customs, and practices, adding to their diverse cultural tapestry.

With the global recognition of the significance of nutritious and sustainable food supplies, millets have garnered renewed interest. They are regarded as an essential part of India’s farming and food future. The Indian government has taken several excellent initiatives to encourage the cultivation and consumption of millet.

Garnering these schemes, India has seen 80 plus new startups in the millet sector in the past year, highlighting the government’s commitment to using them as a catalyst for better nutrition, ecological balance, and economic growth.

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Health Lite Blogs

Addressing Sleep Deprivation

Women worrying more, sleeping less: In 2024, the report revealed that 9% more women have been sleeping well past the ideal bedtime when compared to men…reports Asian Lite News

On the morning of this year’s World Sleep Day, Wakefit.co, one of India’s largest D2C sleep and home solutions providers, urges people to go #BackToSleep. Why? Turns out the revelations unearthed in the 7th edition of its Great Indian Sleep Scorecard (GISS) 2024 point to alarming indications of deteriorating sleep quality across the country. 

The report revealed that in 2024, 58% of Indians went to bed after 11 pm. Concurrently, the report also indicated that close to half of India woke up feeling tired in the mornings.  Moreover, 88% of people wake up multiple times during the night, while 1 in 4 Indians believe they have insomnia given their inability to sleep well. Prevalence of digital exposure as well as rising stress levels seem to enhance India’s sleep woes, social media and OTT emerged as the top reasons for 54% of Indians staying up beyond the ideal bedtime, and a whopping 88% reported using their phones just before bedtime. Additionally, over 30% of people stay up worrying about their future late at night. Interestingly, while 31% of India believe that a better mattress and consistent sleep routine will help improve the quality of sleep, another 38% believe that avoiding digital devices will do the trick. 

As the largest sleep study with close to 2.5 Lakh Indians’ responses garnered across 7 years and 10,000+ responses this year, the GISS study unveils significant insights into the sleep patterns of Indians. The report also delves into crucial observations and trends across various age groups, genders, and demographic segments.

The key findings and observations from the survey are elucidated below.

Midnights in metros: The GISS report paints a vivid picture of the nocturnal landscape across urban India, revealing sleep habits and trends as diverse as the cities themselves. The report revealed that half of Gurugram’s population and around 46% in Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata stay up beyond the ideal bedtime, with 61% in Gurugram waking up feeling tired. Social media keeps 43% of Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru residents up late. Work pressures cause late nights for 33% in Chennai, Gurugram, and Hyderabad, the highest in India among all other cities. Delhi leads in workday sleepiness at 60%, with others averaging 55%. Chennai uniquely reports a 72% higher trend of sleeping outside conventional beds. While 33% of Chennai, Delhi, and Kolkata believe in the power of a better mattress to improve the quality of sleep, 36% of Bengaluru and Mumbai felt a consistent sleep routine will do so. 

Women worrying more, sleeping less: In 2024, the report revealed that 9% more women have been sleeping well past the ideal bedtime when compared to men. This could be one of the reasons contributing to a significant 20% higher morning tiredness among women vs. men. Further compounding the issue is a 50% higher incidence of women waking up more than 3 times at night when compared to their male counterparts.  Additionally, the concerns that keep them awake are notable, with a 20% higher incidence of women staying up late, worrying over future uncertainties than men. These insights not only reflect the complexity of sleep experiences among women but also hint at the broader implications of lifestyle, stress, and perhaps societal roles on their sleep health.

Gen Z and millennials ditch gadgets, Gen X love their mattresses: The GISS report revealed intriguing age-related sleep patterns across different age groups. A notable 48% of individuals aged 18 to 30 went to bed post 11 pm, highlighting a trend towards later bedtimes in this age group. Gen X isn’t immune to the lures of late-night screen time either, with 42% admitting to doom scrolling into the wee hours. The concerns of under-18-year-olds are palpable, as 43% of them reported being burdened by anxieties about the future. Solutions to these sleep challenges vary by age, with 37% of 18-30 year-olds believing that keeping digital devices at bay before sleep will enhance sleep quality, while 33% of those above the age of 45 lean towards the comfort of a better mattress. The impact of these disrupted sleep patterns is felt the next day, with a staggering 65% of Gen Z and millennials reporting sleepiness during work hours, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to address these diverse sleep challenges. 

Commenting on The Great Indian Sleep Scorecard 2024, Chaitanya Ramalingegowda, Director and Co-founder of Wakefit.co, said, “In an era where the boundaries between day and night are increasingly blurring, the findings from the latest Great Indian Sleep Scorecard 2024 serve as a critical reflection of our collective sleep health. This year’s findings revealed a notable point where 42% of Gen X have reported doom scrolling late at night. As we navigate through the digital age, the challenge before us is not merely to address the symptoms of sleep deprivation but to redefine our relationship with technology, work, and well-being.”

He added, “At Wakefit.co, we believe in the power of research-led educational content, packaged in byte-sized, digestible formats. The Great Indian Sleep Scorecard, with seven editions and close to 2.5 Lakh respondents,  has been a flagship research report, helping us in our endeavor to create awareness about sleep health. We aim to build a future where sleep is not sidelined but celebrated as the third pillar of health, in addition to nutrition and exercise.”

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Health

Al Qassimi Hospital Performs Innovative Heart Procedure on Infant

Dr. Khalid Khalfan Sabet, Assistant Director for Medical Affairs, commended the expertise of the Cardiac Center’s medical team which distinguished itself with such an outstanding medical procedure…reports Asian Lite News

The medical team at the Cardiac Center of Al Qassimi Women’s and Children’s Hospital, an Emirates Health Services (EHS) facility, achieved a milestone by receiving a 10-month-old infant with a hole in the heart ventricle, also known as ventricular septal defect. The infant was transferred from Fujairah Hospital for a non-traditional surgical procedure due to multiple health complications associated with the defect.

The doctors successfully performed a life-saving open-heart surgery on the child, closing the hole using a new technique through minimally invasive surgery. This approach serves as an alternative to the traditional method that involves creating an incision in the middle of the chest cavity.

The medical team avoided the traditional surgery method involving chest bone incision, instead opting for a procedure through a small opening under the child’s right arm. This approach keeps the surgery concealed and less visible in the future, enabling the child to lead a better quality of life. Recovery in such medical techniques contributes to swift recuperation post-surgery, reducing the hospital stay duration for patient care.

Dr. Khalid Khalfan Sabet, Assistant Director for Medical Affairs, commended the expertise of the Cardiac Center’s medical team which distinguished itself with such an outstanding medical procedure. He stated that the leadership of Emirates Health Services honored the doctors involved in this case as this surgery is considered one of the outstanding and innovative medical procedures involved in complex pediatric cases, particularly in young patients.

Dr. Sabet emphasized the efforts and proficiency of the Cardiac Center team and the collaboration of all medical and technical staff across various hospital departments, which played a significant role in the success of this operation. Their collective efforts helped alleviate the child’s and their family’s suffering, aligning with the strategic goals of Emirates Health Services to provide top-notch healthcare services to patients.

Dr. Hamza El Nadi, Consultant pediatric cardiac surgeon, highlighted the significant impact of such congenital heart defects in children, emphasizing their grave threat to infants’ lives. He pointed out that the occurrence rate of these cardiac defects in newborns reaches 1%, and in such cases, the innovative medical procedure contributed to solving the child’s problem and reducing the recovery period, allowing the infant to leave the hospital on the third day after the procedure.

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Health Lite Blogs

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Colon Cancer Prevention

There has been a concerning trend of colon cancer affecting young people in recent years. While traditionally, colon cancer has been associated with older individuals, there’s been an evident increase in diagnoses among younger adults…reports Asian Lite News

Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. The colon and rectum are parts of the digestive system, responsible for processing food and eliminating waste. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), it is the second most prevalent cause of cancer-related deaths globally and the third most common cancer globally, making up around 10% of all cancer cases.

It typically develops from abnormal growths called polyps, which may initially be benign but can become cancerous over time. These polyps can grow along the inner lining of the colon or rectum, and if left untreated, may invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis.

There has been a concerning trend of colon cancer affecting young people in recent years. While traditionally, colon cancer has been associated with older individuals, there’s been an evident increase in diagnoses among younger adults.

Dr. Manish Sharma, Sr. Medical Oncologist at Action Cancer Hospital, New Delhi and Medical oncologist at Cancer Care Clinic Faridabad said, “While there are certain hereditary predispositions to colon cancer, external factors are most likely to blame for the significant rise in incidents. A person’s risk of acquiring colorectal cancer is increased by smoking, having inflammatory bowel disease, eating poorly, being obese, and drinking excessive alcohol”.

The rise in colon cancer incidence among younger adults underscores the importance of raising awareness about the disease’s signs and symptoms. While symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss are often associated with colon cancer, they can be overlooked or attributed to other causes in younger individuals. Heightened awareness and proactive screening are essential for early detection and treatment.

Dr. Manish Sharma suggested a few lifestyle modifications that can reduce the risk of colon cancer:

Reduce your intake of red meat: Colon cancer has been linked to heavy red meat consumption, especially when it comes to processed or burned meats. While cooking, it may affect the production of compounds that cause cancer because of its high fat and protein content. The processing or cooking techniques used on red meat, such as grilling or smoking, may also be related. When cooked at such high temperatures, they can produce carcinogens linked to cancer. Instead, switch to plant protein and lean protein meals like fish and chicken are two other great sources of protein.

Eat less sugar: Frequent intake of sugar-filled beverages has been linked to a higher risk of developing breast and colon cancer, among other cancers. Consuming a lot of sugar can increase insulin resistance and obesity, two conditions that increase the chance of developing several cancers. Furthermore, the metabolism of sugars may contribute to the proliferation of cancer cells. Dr. Sharma notes that while research has been done, the results are conflicting about whether artificial sweeteners raise the risk of cancer. Just as he advocates consuming sugar in moderation, he also suggests using artificial sweeteners in moderation.

Eat a lot of fibre: There are many advantages to including fibre in our diet, such as lowering constipation, controlling blood sugar surges, and strengthening heart and intestinal health. Additionally, it can lower the chance of developing colon cancer. Dietary fibre has several important roles in colon cancer prevention according to a 2018 review of studies. These roles include promoting better bowel movements and lowering the quantity of carcinogens created during digestion.

Cut down on alcohol: The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention states that alcohol consumption raises the risk of mouth and throat, colon and rectum, liver, and breast cancers, among other cancer types. The National Cancer Institute states that even moderate drinking is linked to an elevated risk of colon cancer. This is because alcohol is broken down by the body into the chemical acetaldehyde, which destroys cell DNA and may allow cells to start multiplying uncontrollably, which is how malignant tumours originate.

Dr. Manish Sharma concludes, “The increasing incidence of colon cancer among younger people is a multifaceted issue that demands attention from healthcare providers, policymakers, and the general public. By addressing lifestyle factors, increasing awareness, and expanding access to screening and preventive services, we can work towards reversing this alarming trend and reducing the burden of colon cancer on younger generations.”

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Food Health Lite Blogs

Healthy Indulgence for IPL Fans

Watching your waistline but still craving a match-winning meal? The Pantry has you covered. Their diverse menu offers a variety of healthy and delicious options, catering to various dietary needs…reports Asian Lite News

Cricket fever is all set to grip the nation with the IPL 2024 around the corner! Hosting the IPL screening party at one’s house has become the latest trend and itself is a celebration of its kind. No celebration is complete without sumptuous food. Thanks to the existence of cloud kitchens that deliver delicious food to our doorstep.

So, whether you are craving some spicy chicken wings, cheesy pizzas, or indulgent desserts, here’s a list of cloud kitchens to go for an unforgettable match-watching session.

Woodside Burger Shop

Calling all cricket fanatics! Celebrate big wins with Woodside Burger Shop’s legendary, handcrafted burgers made with never-frozen ingredients. Feeling like a champion? Devour their signature options for a flavor explosion in every bite. Or, explore unique flavors and take your taste buds on an adventure.

The Pantry – Guilt-Free Goodness

Watching your waistline but still craving a match-winning meal? The Pantry has you covered. Their diverse menu offers a variety of healthy and delicious options, catering to various dietary needs. Whether you’re keeping it vegetarian or following a specific dietary plan, The Pantry ensures you don’t miss a single delivery.

Nashville Fried Chicken

Get ready for a fiery yorker with Nashville Fried Chicken! This cloud kitchen delivers the “hottest, sauciest, crunchiest” fried chicken experience straight to your living room. Spice up your game with their signature offerings or take your taste buds on an international adventure with unique flavors. Feeling like a classic player? No problem! They offer timeless favorites for a true powerplay of flavor.

Aglio Pizzeria & Deli

Craving something delicious during a nail-biting match? Aglio Pizzeria & Deli delivers authentic New York-style pizzas and deli delights straight to your home. Whether you’re looking for classic comfort food or something a little fancier, Aglio has you covered. Feeling like an IPL MVP? Explore their gourmet options for a truly championship-worthy experience.

Maiz Mexican Kitchen

Picture this: you’re lounging on your cozy couch, eyes glued to the intense cricket match playing out on your TV screen. The adrenaline is pumping, the excitement is palpable, and suddenly, a wave of hunger hits you. Your mouth waters at the thought of their freshly made guacamole, crunchy salads bursting with flavor, and savory tacos loaded with wholesome ingredients. The mere idea of indulging in their nourishing bowls filled with colorful veggies and protein-packed beans has you practically bouncing with anticipation. With Maiz Mexican Kitchen just a call away for delivery or takeout, satisfying your craving couldn’t be easier – and more delicious!

With their diverse offerings delivered straight to your doorstep. You can focus on cheering on your favorite team and enjoying the electrifying atmosphere of the IPL.

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Business Health India News

India to Enhance Pharma Standards

The new scheme covers all pharmaceutical manufacturing units with a turnover of less than Rs 500 crore…reports Asian Lite News

Department of Pharmaceuticals on Monday announced a wider Revamped Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme in a significant step to help upgrade the technological capabilities of the country’s pharmaceutical industry and ensure its alignment with global standards.

The new scheme covers all pharmaceutical manufacturing units with a turnover of less than Rs 500 crore.

The revised guideline aims to support the pharmaceutical industry’s up-gradation to the Revised Schedule-M & WHO-GMP standards, enhancing the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products manufactured in our country, according to an official statement.

Key features of the revised scheme are:

Broadened Eligibility Criteria: Reflecting a more inclusive approach, eligibility for the Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (PTUAS) has been expanded beyond Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to include any pharmaceutical manufacturing unit with a turnover of less than 500 crores that requires technology and quality upgradation. Preference remains for MSMEs, supporting smaller players in achieving high-quality manufacturing standards.

Flexible Financing Options: The scheme introduces more flexible financing options, emphasizing subsidies on a reimbursement basis, over a traditional credit-linked approach. This flexibility is designed to diversify the financing options of the participating units, facilitating a more widespread adoption of the scheme.

Comprehensive Support for Compliance with New Standards: In alignment with revised Schedule-M and WHO-GMP standards, the scheme now supports a broader range of technological upgrades. Eligible activities include improvements such as HVAC systems, water and steam utilities, testing laboratories, stability chambers, clean room facilities, effluent treatment, waste management etc. ensuring comprehensive support for participating units.

Dynamic Incentive Structure: Pharmaceutical units have been classified into three categories. Units with a turnover of less than Rs 50 crore will be eligible for an incentive of 20 per cent of investment, while those with a turnover from Rs 50 to 250 crore will get an incentive of 15 per cent of their investment. Units with a turnover of Rs 250 to 500 crore will be eligible for an incentive of 10 per cent.

State Government Scheme Integration: The revised scheme allows integration with state government schemes, enabling units to benefit from additional top-up assistance. This collaborative approach aims to maximize support for the pharmaceutical industry in their technology upgradation efforts.

Enhanced Verification Mechanism: The scheme introduces a robust verification mechanism through a Project Management Agency, ensuring transparency, accountability and the efficient allocation of resources.

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UK ranks second-worst for mental wellbeing in global survey

The UK scored a low 49 on a Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) scale ranging from -100 (very dissatisfied) to 200….reports Asian Lite News

A new report suggests a global decline in mental well-being, with the UK coming in a concerning second place for the most miserable country.

Sapien Labs, a research group, conducted their annual “Mental State of the World” survey, questioning over 400,000 people in 71 countries. The results show a lack of recovery from the pandemic’s initial mental health toll.

The UK scored a low 49 on a Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) scale ranging from -100 (very dissatisfied) to 200. This placed them just above Uzbekistan, the lowest-scoring country. Notably, 35% of Britons reported feeling “distressed.”

The study interestingly found a correlation between wealth and unhappiness, with richer nations scoring lower. The happiest places in the world, the Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania, are all non-English-speaking developing countries that definitely know how to enjoy life better than many in the developed countries.

Australia, Tajikistan, Brazil, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Uzbekistan are ranked the worst on the list.

Europe and North America performed poorly overall, suggesting a broader trend.

While some might use this report to fuel negativity, the authors urge the UK to see it as a call to action. They point out positive aspects, like London being named Europe’s best city and Glasgow’s top live music scene.

This survey adds to the discussion of mental health around the world.

Mental health is experiencing a widespread decline on a global scale.

While further research might be needed, it highlights a potential need for increased focus on mental wellbeing in many countries, including the UK.

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Health Lite Blogs

First Trimester: A Roller Coaster Ride of Change and Uncertainty

Regular scans are not just medical check-ups; they are windows into the miracle of life unfolding. These scans and tests help healthcare providers assess the health and development of the foetus, detect any potential abnormalities early, and provide appropriate care and counselling to expecting parents…reports Asian Lite News

The first trimester of pregnancy is like stepping onto a roller coaster of change, where the only certainty is the uncertainty that comes with this transformative journey. As the body works tirelessly to create a nurturing environment for the growing baby, a whirlwind of emotions and physical adjustments takes centre stage.

Swapnil Kaushik, the founder of Mom’s Preg-Ladder says, “The surge in estrogen as well as HCG levels, surpassing the production of a non-pregnant lifetime, can lead to mood swings, bloating, nausea, and fatigue. While the baby bump might not be evident, the uterus is expanding, and blood volume is on the rise. It’s a time that brings both excitement and nervousness, and it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed. Seeking support from friends, partners, or healthcare providers becomes a lifeline for expecting mothers as they navigate the complexities of this initial trimester.

As an internationally recognised childbirth educator, certified pregnancy health coach, and recognised expert on maternal and child nutrition coaching by the Government of India, Kaushik offers the following advice to soon-to-be mothers throughout the first trimester:

Knowledge is empowerment

Taking an early pregnancy class can be a game-changer. These classes provide invaluable insights into the changes happening within the body and equip expecting mothers with the knowledge to handle the upcoming challenges. From nutrition tips to coping mechanisms, these classes offer a comprehensive guide to making the first trimester more manageable.

Do get regular scans

Regular scans are not just medical check-ups; they are windows into the miracle of life unfolding. These scans and tests help healthcare providers assess the health and development of the foetus, detect any potential abnormalities early, and provide appropriate care and counselling to expecting parents. It’s essential for expecting parents to discuss with their healthcare provider which scans and tests are recommended for their specific situation.

Take proper rest

While staying active is encouraged during pregnancy, it’s essential to listen to your body. If morning sickness is making the usual routine challenging, don’t hesitate to rest. Also, taking short naps in the afternoon can be rejuvenating and help combat the fatigue that often accompanies the first trimester.

Prioritize well-being

Whether working or not, expectant mothers need to pay attention to various aspects of their lifestyle. Managing travel, reducing stress levels, maintaining a balanced nutrition plan, and staying well-hydrated are key components of ensuring a healthy first trimester and a thriving pregnancy.

Encourage open communication

An open line of communication with both your partner and healthcare provider is crucial. Sharing your experiences, concerns, and joys helps build a strong support system. This communication fosters a sense of togetherness, making the journey through the first trimester and beyond a shared experience.

Cultivate good reading habits

Reading about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting can provide a sense of comfort and preparedness. Books, articles, and reputable online resources offer insights into what to expect, calming fears, and providing practical advice for navigating the challenges of pregnancy.

Meditation and pranayama

As the body undergoes physical changes, it’s equally important to nurture the mind. Incorporating meditation or pranayama into the daily routine can help manage stress, promote relaxation, and create a positive mindset. These practices contribute not only to the well-being of the mother but also to the developing baby.

Start womb talks

Begin the beautiful practice of ‘womb talks.’ While the baby may not understand the words, the vibrations and soothing tones create a unique bonding experience. This early connection lays the foundation for a strong parent-child relationship and introduces the baby to the comforting sounds of their parent’s voice.

Moreover, navigating the first trimester requires a combination of self-care, knowledge, and emotional support. Expecting mothers are not alone in this journey and with the right tools and a supportive network, they can embrace the changes with confidence, paving the way for a healthy and joyful pregnancy.

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