The move addresses a critical need that has been felt since the establishment of the Advanced Cardiac Centre in 2009. Until now, patients suffering from cardiac emergencies were being treated in the institute’s main Emergency Wing, which handles a high volume of trauma, medical, surgical and critically ill cases.

Director, PGIMER, Prof Vivek Lal said the increasing patient load from multiple northern states often resulted in heavy congestion in the general emergency area. Patients from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and Rajasthan visit the premier institute daily, placing immense pressure on existing emergency infrastructure.

“In cardiovascular emergencies, every minute is crucial. Our effort is to ensure that no patient suffers due to systemic delays,” he stated.

With the launch of the dedicated cardiac emergency unit, patients with heart-related emergencies will receive faster triage, specialised evaluation and focused treatment. The facility has been set up through coordinated efforts of the departments of cardiology, emergency medicine, anaesthesia, hospital administration and nursing services.

Officials believe the new unit will not only streamline time-sensitive cardiac care but also reduce the burden on the main emergency wing, thereby improving overall patient management.

“The two case of Nipah virus infection reported by India in West Bengal are the third in this state since the virus was first identified in 1998,” Ghebreyesus worte in a post on X. He also said that authorities in India were following over 190 contacts, and none have developed the disease so far.

“Authorities have increased disease surveillance and testing, implemented prevention and control measures in health care settings, and are keeping the public informed about how to protect themselves,” he further wrote.

Nipah is a rare but serious disease.

The two case of Nipah virus infection reported by India in West Bengal are the third in this state since the virus was first identified in 1998.

No cases have been reported in any other country linked to this outbreak.

Indian authorities… pic.twitter.com/u0VYEerWnv

— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) January 31, 2026

The global health body has also noted that there is no evidence of increased human-to-human transmission, which is why the overall risk assessment remains low.

Earlier, two Nipah virus cases were confirmed in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district, involving two nurses. Health authorities later reported that both patients showed improvement and subsequently tested negative for the infection. The male nurse has been discharged, while the female nurse was removed from ventilator support and continues to remain under medical observation.

According to the WHO, Nipah virus is transmitted from bats to humans and can spread through close contact or contaminated food. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches and headaches, which can make early detection challenging.

In severe cases, the infection can cause inflammation of the brain, with fatality rates ranging between 40% and 75%.

“Exempting customs duty on these critical drugs will help lower their market prices, directly benefiting patients undergoing treatment for various cancers,” Nirmala Sitharaman said while presenting the Budget in Parliament. Imported oncology medications often carry significant customs duties, which contribute to higher retail prices. The government expects that eliminating this levy will ease the economic burden on patients, especially those without comprehensive health insurance.

In addition to cancer drugs, the Budget has expanded customs duty relief to cover medicines and foods used for the treatment of seven rare diseases. This provision allows personal imports of specialised treatments and nutritional products to be exempt from import duties, benefiting patients who require niche therapies not available in India. Such measures are particularly relevant for rare disease patients, whose treatments are often imported on a named patient basis due to limited domestic manufacturing.

While the government has not disclosed the full list of drugs under the exemption, officials confirmed that it includes high-cost, widely used cancer medicines. 

As stated in the official notification, higher-dose oral preparations of nimesulide have been prohibited due to potential risks to human health. The government noted that safer alternatives are readily available, making the continued availability of high-strength formulations unnecessary and against public interest.

The ban has been imposed under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, which authorises the Centre to restrict or prohibit drugs deemed unsafe. The decision followed consultations with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), the apex body that advises the government on technical issues related to drugs and cosmetics.

Nimesulide has long faced scrutiny over safety concerns, particularly its links to liver toxicity. The World Health Organization has excluded the drug from its Model List of Essential Medicines, reflecting international caution. Several countries have either limited or withdrawn its use due to reports of hepatic injury. In India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has repeatedly reviewed its risk–benefit profile. Medical experts have also highlighted that commonly used alternatives such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, when taken at recommended doses, have a more established safety record, supported by evidence from bodies like the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

The order makes clear that the restriction takes effect immediately and applies uniformly across all states and Union Territories.

By prohibiting high-dose oral nimesulide, the government has taken a key step towards strengthening drug safety regulation in India, aiming to minimise preventable health risks while promoting the use of safer, well-studied options for managing pain and fever.

In a communication to the Indian Medical Association (IMA), the DGHS highlighted objections raised by groups such as the Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR) regarding a clause in the Competency Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy, 2025.

The curriculum, released in April, had proposed allowing physiotherapy graduates to use “Dr” before their names along with the suffix “PT.”

“Physiotherapists are not trained as medical doctors and, therefore, should not use the prefix “Dr”, as it misleads patients and general public, potentially leading to quackery,” Dr Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services, mentioned in the letter.

The DGHS stressed that physiotherapists are not trained as medical doctors and should not represent themselves as such. It clarified that physiotherapists are expected to practice on referral from physicians rather than act as primary care providers.

The ministry further noted that courts and medical councils have consistently ruled against physiotherapists using the “Dr” title. Rulings by the Patna High Court (2003), a Bengaluru court (2020), and the Madras High Court (2022), along with advisories from the Tamil Nadu Medical Council, have all reaffirmed that the prefix is reserved exclusively for registered medical practitioners.

Kerala reported 1435 cases while Delhi reported 483 infections with one more death linked to Corona virus. In addition to Delhi, one Covid-related death each was reported in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra in the past 24 hours.

A 22-year old woman with pre-existing lung condition succumbed to the infection in national capital while a 25-year-old man with similar bronchial issues died in Tamil Nadu. A 44-year-old man in Maharashtra died due to severe ARDS who tested positive for Covid-19 and details of the fatality in Kerala are awaited.

According to the officials, the situation pertaining to Covid-19 is closely being monitored by the authorities. The severity however remains low.

Dr Rajiv Bahl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), said that genome sequencing of samples from the western and southern regions of the country has revealed that the variants driving the current surge in cases are subvariants of Omicron and are not associated with severe illness.

According to the data, Kerala has recorded 1,1147 cases, Maharashtra 424, Delhi 294, and Gujarat 223.  Tamil Nadu has recorded a total of 148 cases so far, while Karnataka and West Bengal have reported 148 and 116 cases, respectively.

Rajasthan has reported 51 cases, Uttar Pradesh 42, Puducherry 25, Haryana 20, Andhra Pradesh 16, Madhya Pradesh 10, Goa seven, and Odisha, Punjab, and Jammu Kashmir four each. Three states - Telangana, Arunachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh have reported three cases each, while Mizoram and Assam have two people detected with the infection each so far.

No active case has been reported from Andaman and Nicobar, Sikkim, and Himachal Pradesh. The official data for Bihar is not yet available.

The number marks a significant resurgence in the national capital which also recorded 24 recoveries during the same period. 

These cities are followed by Gujarat, which has recorded 83 cases; Karnataka with 47 cases, Uttar Pradesh with 15 cases, and West Bengal with 12 cases. Amid visible uptick several cases have been reported of two new variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7--according to fresh data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (Insacog), a central government agency.

As of now the World Health Oragnisation has not classified them as Variant of Concern or Variant of interest. 

The Union Health Secretary, on Saturday, reviewed the national situation. "Cases have mainly been reported from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. Most cases are mild and under home care," the ministry said.

Medical experts warn that ignoring early signs of dehydration or diarrhea can lead to serious complications. Hence, it s crucial to stay vigilant and not take any symptom lightly during this intense summer season.

Common health risks children face in summer

During summer, children become more vulnerable to various infections and illnesses. Among them, diarrhea is one of the most dangerous, especially for infants and toddlers. This condition leads to the rapid loss of fluids and essential salts from the body, increasing the risk of severe dehydration.

What is diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a digestive disorder characterised by frequent loose or watery stools. It commonly occurs when the digestive system fails to process food properly or due to bacterial or viral infections. Children are most at risk because their immune systems are not fully developed. With diarrhea, the body loses water and essential salts like sodium at a rapid pace, causing fatigue and dehydration.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diarrhea claims the lives of approximately 4,43,000 children under the age of five and over 50,000 children aged 5–9 years every year worldwide. Given its severity, early symptoms must never be ignored.

Why are children more prone to diarrhea?

Children are particularly susceptible due to their underdeveloped immune systems. They often eat without washing their hands or put dirty objects and toys into their mouths. This exposes them to harmful bacteria and viruses. The risk of infection increases significantly during summer, making diarrhea a common seasonal issue.

Summer care tips for newborns

Newborns are especially sensitive to temperature changes and require extra care during the summer months. Experts recommend the following precautions:

Exclusive Breastfeeding: Infants up to 6 months old should be fed only breast milk, which serves as their food, water, and medicine.

Well-Ventilated Rooms: Keep the baby in a cool, airy room. Avoid taking them out in direct sunlight, into crowded areas, or overly warm environments. Ensure air conditioners or coolers do not blow air directly on the baby.

Appropriate Clothing: Dress the baby in loose, light-coloured cotton clothing. Change wet clothes immediately to prevent rashes or discomfort.

Diaper Hygiene: Change diapers frequently and keep the baby’s skin dry to reduce the risk of heat rashes.

Bathing Routine: Bathe the baby daily using lukewarm or fresh water. Dry the baby completely before dressing.

Hand Hygiene: Always wash hands before handling a newborn. Maintain a clean environment around the baby.

Seek Medical Attention if Needed: Excessive sweating, refusal to breastfeed, fatigue, or continuous crying can be signs of dehydration or infection. Immediate medical attention should be sought in such cases.

Nutrition and hydration tips 

Children tend to tire quickly during the summer due to excessive sweating and fluid loss. Proper diet and hydration are essential to maintain their health.

Light and Fresh Meals: Offer foods that are easy to digest such as rice-lentils, vegetables, roti, or khichdi. Avoid stale or outside food.

Fresh Fruits: Serve hydrating and cooling fruits like watermelon, muskmelon, papaya, mango, cucumber, and others to help maintain fluid balance.

Avoid Spicy and Fried Foods: Refrain from giving children oily, spicy, or heavily fried foods as these can upset their stomachs.

Ensure Water Intake: Always provide a clean water bottle, especially if the child attends school. Teach them the importance of drinking water at regular intervals. Fluids like buttermilk, sugarcane juice, and coconut water are also recommended.

If symptoms of diarrhea persist beyond two days, medical attention is necessary. Warning signs include:

Presence of blood in the stool

High fever

Repeated vomiting

Extreme fatigue or lethargy

These could indicate a severe condition, particularly in young children, elderly individuals, or those with weak immune systems. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications.

Of the 51 toothpaste and tooth powder brands tested, 90% were found to contain lead, while 65% contained arsenic, both of which are highly toxic to human health. Even more concerning, nearly 47% of children’s toothpaste products tested positive for mercury, and 35% contained cadmium.

Brands flagged in the report include major household names like Sensodyne, Crest, Colgate, Tom’s of Maine, Dr Bronner’s, Davids, Dr Jen, and Dr Brite. These findings are especially troubling given the widespread use of these products among both adults and children.

Tamara Rubin, founder of Lead Safe Mama, expressed deep concern over the findings: “It’s unconscionable – especially in 2025. What’s really interesting is that no one thought this was a concern,” she told The Guardian.

Although the levels of heavy metals detected in the products breach state-level regulations in Washington, they currently do not violate federal safety thresholds. However, public health experts argue that these standards are outdated and insufficient to protect vulnerable populations—especially children.

The Mayo Clinic emphasises that there is no safe level of lead exposure, warning that even minimal exposure can lead to serious health consequences.

“Children under 6 years are particularly at risk, as lead poisoning can severely hinder mental and physical development,” the Mayo Clinic notes. In extreme cases, high lead exposure can be fatal.

The products were evaluated through a community-directed, independently funded testing initiative led by Lead Safe Mama, in collaboration with third-party laboratories. The goal of the initiative is to raise awareness about toxic exposures in everyday consumer products.

Consumer advocates are now urging regulatory bodies to revise federal safety standards, increase transparency in product labelling, and hold manufacturers accountable for harmful ingredients in personal care products.

Besides patient care, the center also prioritises privacy, so that identities are never disclosed on social media or in testimonial. The centre provides a safe and trusted environment for hopeful parents.

Based in Kharar, Mohali, Aashakiran IVF has seen a remarkable growth over the past two years. It has expanded its reach to Ludhiana, Bathinda, Amritsar, Jammu, Patiala, Hisar, and Kangra, thereby enabling more families to access world-class fertility solutions closer to home.

Aashakiran also organises quarterly camps to spread awareness about fertility health and support couples struggling to conceive. These camps focus on educating people about conception strategies and precautions while offering treatments at highly nominal rates for those unable to afford standard procedures. This compassionate approach has made advanced fertility care accessible to all.

Aashakiran also embraces the growing trend of medical tourism by catering to NRI patients. With its high success rates and top-notch facilities, the IVF centre attracts international patients, thereby promoting medical tourism in India and hile helping families from around the globe realise their dream of parenthood.

Aashakiran IVF has today become a trusted name in fertility care, lighting the way for countless families toward a brighter future.

Rich in dietary fiber, plant-based protein, and Omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseeds are an excellent addition to vegetarian and vegan diets. They also contain vital minerals like magnesium, copper, and zinc, along with vitamins B1 and B6.

A small serving of ground flaxseeds can provide significant health benefits. These seeds are widely used in baking as an egg substitute due to their ability to bind ingredients while adding nutritional value.

Health benefits of flaxseeds

Flaxseeds contain Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease

Magnesium in flaxseeds helps regulate blood pressure, making them beneficial for patients with hypertension.

The phosphorus content supports bone health.

High fiber content aids digestion and supports gut health.

Nutritionists recommend consuming one to two tablespoons of ground flaxseeds daily. While generally safe, excessive consumption can lead to bloating or digestive discomfort. It is essential to consult a doctor if consuming flaxseeds during pregnancy or lactation, as hormonal imbalances could occur.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid flaxseeds unless advised by a doctor, as they may affect hormonal balance. People with allergies should be cautious, as flaxseeds can trigger reactions like itching, nausea, or breathing difficulties.

Can flaxseeds prevent hair loss?

While not a definitive cure, regular consumption of flaxseeds may reduce hair fall due to their Omega-3 content, which improves scalp health and blood circulation.

Are flaxseeds safe during pregnancy?

Experts hold differing opinions. Some believe they may lead to preterm labour, while others deem one to two tablespoons safe. Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.

Flaxseeds are a versatile and nutrient-rich addition to diets worldwide. Whether consumed as a snack, added to smoothies, or used in baking, they provide numerous health benefits when eaten in moderation.

Of these cases, six are infants. The virus, which shares symptoms with common cold and flu, has a potential to evolve into more severe conditions such as bronchitis and pneumonia, particularly in vulnerable populations.

HMPV is a known pathogen that primarily affects the respiratory system, causing symptoms similar to a common flu. However, it can lead to more severe complications, especially in infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. The virus has recently been causing increasing cases of respiratory distress in several regions, particularly among infants under six months old. Experts suggest that the rapid transmission of HMPV could be linked to its mutated form circulating in China, which is speculated to be more contagious and potentially more dangerous.

Early symptoms and risks

The symptoms of HMPV infection are generally mild, resembling those of a common cold, such as a runny nose, cough, and fever. However, in some cases, the infection can progress to cause more severe respiratory distress, including difficulty breathing, wheezing, and pneumonia. Health officials have warned parents not to ignore any flu-like symptoms in children, particularly if the child exhibits unusual difficulty in breathing or shows signs of fatigue.

Experts say the most vulnerable group for HMPV infection in India appears to be infants, particularly those under one year of age. According to global data, the highest number of cases of HMPV infections have been observed in children aged between four to six months. In India, too, most of the cases are being reported among infants under the age of one, says the available data so far. 

While the HMPV virus has been present in various regions for years, the current surge in cases in China has drawn international attention. In China, the number of reported adult cases has risen, with experts linking the increased cases to weakened immune systems in elderly populations.

Doctors nationwide are of the view that the virus itself is not new. However, the emergence of potentially more dangerous mutations in China has fueled concerns. They say while it's too early to confirm whether the virus has mutated into a more dangerous form, it’s important to note that this is not a new virus. It has been circulating globally for years without causing significant widespread fatalities. Experts say it is essential to avoid panic until more conclusive data is available regarding the potential mutation of the virus.  

In response to the growing number of cases, the Central Government, through the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has initiated an advisory to states to increase surveillance on respiratory diseases, especially in light of rising seasonal infections. The government has urged medical teams to be vigilant and to screen for HMPV, as well as to enhance reporting on flu-like symptoms, especially in children under five years old.

Doctors are advising parents to keep a close eye on any flu-like symptoms in their children and seek medical advice if the symptoms worsen. "In infants, respiratory distress, wheezing, and a decrease in activity levels could be signs of complications related to HMPV infection. Immediate medical attention should be sought in such cases," they add. 

The primary defense against the spread of HMPV remains prevention, as there is currently no specific antiviral medication or vaccine for the virus. Preventative measures include frequent handwashing, maintaining good hygiene practices, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Since HMPV spreads through respiratory droplets, it can be transmitted through sneezing, coughing, or touching contaminated surfaces. Ensuring that children, especially those under the age of one, avoid close contact with infected individuals is crucial.

Parents are advised to keep children indoors during peak flu season, avoid crowded places, and ensure that children wash their hands regularly to prevent the spread of the virus. Additionally, if a child shows early signs of flu-like symptoms, parents should seek medical attention promptly.

What is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)?

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a severe lung disorder characterised by thickening and stiffening of the tissues around the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. Over time, this leads to permanent scarring, known as fibrosis, which makes it increasingly difficult for affected individuals to breathe.

The US National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NIH) explains that the exact cause of this condition remains unknown. However, the disease progressively worsens, severely impacting the oxygen exchange process in the lungs.

Causes of IPF

IPF is believed to be caused by a cycle of damage and healing in the lung tissues. When this cycle halts, scar tissues form, leading to fibrosis. While the precise reasons behind these changes are unclear, this scarring significantly hampers oxygen transfer from the lungs to the bloodstream.

In a healthy lung, oxygen effortlessly passes through thin alveoli walls into the capillaries. In IPF, however, the thickened walls obstruct this process, causing breathlessness and reduced oxygen supply to the body.

Risk factors associated with IPF

Certain factors heighten the likelihood of developing idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, including:

Age: The disease primarily affects individuals in their 60s and 70s.

Lifestyle Choices: Smoking is a significant risk factor for IPF.

Gender: Men are more commonly affected by IPF compared to women.

Family History and Genetics: People with a family history of IPF or specific genetic mutations are at higher risk.

Genetic mutations, particularly in the MUC5B gene, have been linked to IPF. This gene plays a role in producing a mucus protein that clears harmful substances from the lungs. A mutated version of this gene is more likely to lead to the development of IPF.

Symptoms of IPF

The symptoms of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis can vary but often include:

Shortness of Breath: Initially, breathing difficulties occur during physical activities but worsen over time, making it hard to breathe even at rest.

Persistent Dry Cough: A chronic, uncontrollable cough that fails to improve is a hallmark sign of IPF.

Joint and Muscle Pain: Achy feelings in muscles and joints, though subtle, could signal IPF.

Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent tiredness is a common symptom of the condition.

Unintended Weight Loss: Slow, unintentional weight loss can also indicate IPF.

It is crucial to consult a doctor if these symptoms persist or worsen.

Lifestyle Modifications

Adopting a healthier lifestyle can help slow the disease’s progression and improve overall well-being. Key changes include:

Quitting Smoking: Avoiding tobacco is essential for managing IPF.

Maintaining a Balanced Diet: Eating nutritious foods strengthens the body’s ability to cope with the illness.

Exercising Regularly: Moderate physical activity can improve lung function.

Paracetamol is commonly prescribed for mild-to-moderate fever and pain relief. It is also the first-choice medication for managing osteoarthritis—a chronic condition characterised by joint pain, stiffness, and swelling—owing to its perceived effectiveness, safety, and accessibility. However, growing evidence challenges its safety profile, particularly when used over an extended period.

The study revealed that paracetamol use increases the risk of peptic ulcer bleeding by 24% and lower gastrointestinal bleeding by 36%. These findings add to earlier evidence suggesting that prolonged use of the drug may cause significant gastrointestinal side effects, including ulcers and bleeding.

In addition to gastrointestinal risks, the study linked paracetamol use to a 19% higher risk of chronic kidney disease, a 9% higher risk of heart failure, and a 7% increase in hypertension cases. These findings suggest that the drug’s perceived safety might need re-evaluation, especially for seniors who are already vulnerable to such health conditions.

"This study shows a significant incidence of renal, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal side effects in older people who are prescribed acetaminophen (paracetamol) repeatedly in the UK," said lead researcher Weiya Zhang from the University of Nottingham's School of Medicine.

The researchers analysed health records of 1,80,483 individuals aged 65 and above who were prescribed paracetamol more than twice within six months. Their outcomes were compared to 4,02,478 people of the same age group who had never been repeatedly prescribed the drug. The data, sourced from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink-Gold, covered a span of two decades, from 1998 to 2018, with an average participant age of 75.

The study’s authors emphasised the need for caution in prescribing paracetamol as the first-line treatment for long-term conditions like osteoarthritis, particularly in older adults who face higher risks of drug-related complications.

The Nottingham study aligns with findings from a 2016 research published in The Lancet. That analysis, which reviewed data from 76 randomised trials involving 58,451 patients between 1980 and 2015, found that paracetamol failed to provide adequate pain relief or improve physical function in patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis.

"Given its minimal pain-relief effect, the use of paracetamol as a first-line pain killer for long-term conditions such as osteoarthritis in older people needs to be carefully considered," Zhang noted.

While paracetamol continues to be widely used for pain management, these findings suggest that its risks may outweigh its benefits for certain populations. Researchers have called for further studies to confirm these results and explore alternative pain relief options for older adults.

What is a calorie deficit?

A calorie deficit occurs when you consume fewer calories than your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE). TDEE is the total number of calories your body burns in a day, including basic metabolic functions, physical activity, and digestion.

For example, if your TDEE is 2,000 calories and you consume 1,500 calories daily, you have a deficit of 500 calories. Over time, this deficit can lead to fat loss, as the body uses stored energy to make up the shortfall.

Does calorie deficit work?

Yes, calorie deficit works, but its success depends on consistency, the size of the deficit, and overall diet quality. A moderate calorie deficit of 500-750 calories per day is often recommended for sustainable weight loss of 0.5-1 kg per week.

Extreme deficits, while tempting, can lead to muscle loss, fatigue, and nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, the body adapts to prolonged deficits by slowing down metabolism, making further weight loss challenging.

Effective ways to practice a calorie deficit

Track Your Calories: Use apps to monitor your daily intake and ensure you're in a deficit.

Increase physical activity: Combine a calorie deficit with exercise to create a larger energy gap without drastically reducing food intake.

Eat nutrient-dense foods: Prioritise whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains to feel full with fewer calories.

Practice portion control: Use smaller plates, measure serving sizes, and avoid eating directly from large packages.

Stay hydrated: Sometimes, thirst can be mistaken for hunger. Drinking enough water can prevent unnecessary snacking.

Dos and don’ts for a calorie deficit

Plan balanced meals with all macronutrients (protein, fats, carbs).

Listen to your body and eat when genuinely hungry.

Include regular strength training to preserve muscle mass.

Monitor progress and adjust calorie intake as needed.

Don’ts

Don’t rely solely on crash diets or drastic calorie cuts.

Avoid skipping meals, as this may lead to overeating later.

Don’t consume empty calories from sugary drinks or junk food.

Don’t ignore signs of fatigue, dizziness, or excessive hunger.

Sample diet plan for a 500-calorie deficit

Target calories: Approx. 1,500-1,700 calories (depending on TDEE).

Breakfast:

Scrambled eggs (2 eggs) with spinach and a slice of whole-grain toast.

1 medium orange or a handful of berries.

1 cup of black coffee or green tea.

Mid-Morning Snack

10 almonds or walnuts.

1 small apple.

Lunch

Grilled chicken breast (100g) or tofu.

1 cup quinoa or brown rice.

Steamed broccoli, carrots, and zucchini (1 cup).

Afternoon Snack

Greek yogurt (unsweetened, 100g) with a teaspoon of honey.

A few cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes.

Dinner

Baked salmon (100g) or a plant-based alternative.

1 medium sweet potato (boiled or roasted).

Mixed greens salad with olive oil and lemon dressing.

Evening Snack (Optional)

1 cup herbal tea and a small piece of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher).

Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist before making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.

We usually associate nutrition with what we eat, but new evidence reveals that the air we breathe also has an impact.

A recent research article in Advances in Nutrition introduced the concept of "aeronutrients," which are nutrients absorbed through the lungs and nasal passages. These contain vital elements such as iodine, zinc, manganese, and several vitamins.

Breathing is a continuous process; the average person inhales about 9,000 litres of air every day and over 438 million litres over their lifetime. This continual exposure enables our bodies to absorb small amounts of beneficial substances found in the air.

The authors of the study, Stephen R. Robinson, Professor in Psychology and research, RMIT University, and Flávia Fayet-Moore, Adjunct Lecturer, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, wrote in The Conversation that studies from coastal regions demonstrate that children living near seaweed-rich areas, where iodine levels in the air are higher, have fewer iodine deficiencies than those living inland.

This shows how breathing in nutrient-rich air can help supplement dietary consumption.

How do aeronutrients work?

The digestive system uses enzymes and acids to break down nutrients, whereas the respiratory system absorbs bigger molecules directly into the blood.

This rapid absorption explains why inhaled compounds, such as particular drugs or dangerous pollutants, can have such an immediate effect on the body, according to the study.

Similarly, helpful chemicals in the air, such as aerosolised vitamins or minerals, can enter our systems easily.

The respiratory tract contains hair-like structures known as cilia, which serve as gateways for these nutrients.

According to a 70-year-old study, aerosolised vitamin B12 is a good treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency. This finding is especially advantageous to people who are at a higher risk of deficiency, such as vegans, older adults, diabetics, and heavy drinkers.

Similarly, manganese and zinc taken through the olfactory system support vital bodily activities, but excessive exposure to these minerals can be harmful.

In cities like Delhi, where pollution levels frequently exceed dangerous levels, the makeup of inhaled air changes considerably.

Instead of aeronutrients, the air contains hazardous particulate particles, chemicals, and heavy metals. These pollutants not only deplete useful substances, but they can also harm the respiratory system, impairing its ability to absorb any nutrients that may be present.

 The director of Tata Memorial Hospital, along with nearly 260 oncologists, refuted Navjot Singh Sidhu's claims that a strict diet helped his wife cure stage 4 breast cancer. 

Sidhu attended a press conference outside his Amritsar home on Thursday to announce that his wife, Navjot Kaur Sidhu, is cancer-free. Sidhu claimed that his wife Navjot Kaur kept a strict lifestyle during her recovery. Her daily routine comprised lemon water, raw turmeric, apple cider vinegar, neem leaves, and tulsi. She consumed liquids made from pumpkin, pomegranate, amla, beetroot, and walnuts, as well as sour fruits. Her diet was centred on anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer nutrients. Cooking was done using coconut oil, cold-pressed oils, or almond oil. Her morning tea was spiced with cinnamon, cloves, jaggery, and cardamom.

"She beat cancer not because we had money, but because she was disciplined and followed a strict routine. Cancer can be properly treated even in government hospitals," he stated.

However, a panel of 262 doctors from Tata Memorial Hospital concluded that there is currently no clinical data to support their use as anti-cancer drugs. 

"A video of a former cricketer describing his wife's treatment for her breast cancer has been circulating widely on social media. Parts of the video imply that "starving cancer by not eating dairy products and sugar," consuming haldi (turmeric), and neem helped cure her "incurable" cancer. These statements have no high-quality evidence to support them. While research is ongoing for some of these products, there is no clinical data currently to recommend their use as anti-cancer agents." the letter read.

"We urge the public not to delay their treatment by following unproven remedies, but rather to consult a doctor, preferably a cancer specialist, if they have any symptoms of cancer. Cancer is curable if detected early, and proven treatments for cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy," it added.

Health officials lay special emphasise on promotion of vaccine that helps in preventing the disease, improving healthcare access and also reducing risk factors that contribute to its spread.

Types of Vaccines

• Several vaccines are available that particularly prevent the most common bacterial and viral pathogens:
• Pneumococcal Vaccines: It protects against pneumococcal pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, one of the leading causes of pneumonia cases globally. The vaccines are recommended for children, older adults, and those with specific health conditions.
• Influenza Vaccines: Influenza virus can lead to influenza and further amplify the related complications
• BCG Vaccine The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is fundamentally known for protection against tuberculosis

Symptoms of Pneumonia

• Cough and sputum production
• Fever 
• Severe chest pain
• Fatigue and weakness
• Poor appetite 

Preventive measures to reduce risk of Pneumonia

• Vaccination is considered one of the most effective preventive measures
• Maintaining hygiene regularly
• Quitting smoking or avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke can significantly reduce the risk of pneumonia
• Minimise exposure to infectious agents and keeping distance with unwell individuals
• Making sure proper ventilation and using air purifiers
• Early treatment of respiratory infections

A new study showed that exposure to ammonium nitrate, a main component of PM2.5 pollution and a byproduct of agricultural emissions, affects children's learning ability and memory.

The chemical is made when ammonia gas, which is emitted from agricultural activities, combines with nitric acid, which is produced by the combustion of fossil fuels.

Previous studies have indicated that ammonium nitrate increases the risk of age-related illnesses such as Alzheimer's and dementia, which damage cognition and memory, implying that long-term exposure to PM2.5 can induce neurocognitive harm over one's lifetime.

PM2.5, an essential measure of air quality, is a mixture of dust, soot, organic compounds, and metals with particles less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter. It is known to go deep into the lungs, where it can enter the bloodstream and then cross the extremely selective blood-brain barrier, resulting in major health consequences.

In a 2020 study, a team led by experts from the University of Southern California (USC) found no evidence of a link between PM2.5 and children's cognition.

However, in this study, conducted by the same team and published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, 15 chemicals composing PM2.5 were examined, and ammonium nitrate emerged as a "prime suspect".

The researchers used spatio-temporal models to evaluate yearly levels of exposure to PM2.5 components using the residential addresses of almost 8,600 children aged 9 to 11 years from across the country.

"No matter how we examined it, on its own or with other pollutants, the most robust finding was that ammonium nitrate particles were linked to poorer learning and memory. That suggests that overall PM2.5 is one thing, but for cognition, it's a mixture effect of what you're exposed to," Megan Herting, a professor of population and public health sciences at USC and study's author said.

Further, "understanding these nuances is crucial for informing air quality regulations and understanding long-term neurocognitive effects," she added.

The findings added to the growing body of evidence showing that PM2.5 pollution harms memory and cognition in persons of all ages.