One of the fastest-growing segments in India, the country’s health insurance sector has registered a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23% for the last 10 years [1]. While growing awareness among the masses regarding healthcare is one of the major catalysts behind this growth, digitisation has further given the industry a major push.

The industry, too, is leaving no stone unturned to make the most of the digitisation wave to enhance customer experience and make health insurance plans available to all. Read on to know how the industry is leveraging digitisation to boost its penetration.

Selling health insurance plans online

A primarily agent-driven industry, health insurers today are banking on the increasing penetration of the web to sell policies, particularly to millennials. A survey found about 30% of people in the age group of 25-34 years [2] buy health insurance plans online.

Buying online health insurance has its advantages. You can fill up the proposal form, upload the relevant documents, pay the premium and you’ll be done. There are no intermediaries involved, and insurers save on commissions. As a result, you get to insure your health at an affordable premium

Improve customer experience

The digitisation wave is helping health insurers improve the customer experience. Today, you can gather information about a new policy, check the status of your application or claim, and renew the plan online in a few clicks.

By integrating advanced action-oriented chatbots on websites, health insurers are elevating the customer experience to the next level. The advanced chatbots, integrated with artificial intelligence and machine learning, based on the queries decipher what you are looking for and make suggestions accordingly. Today, they can also help you do mundane tasks such as filling up the proposal form

Better underwriting

The crux of insurance, underwriting helps in better risk assessment and compute premium(s) accordingly. With rising cases of frauds in the sector, insurers have tightened their underwriting process of late. However, they face a challenge to ensure that genuine customers don’t suffer due to frauds committed by others and get adequately rewarded.

Digitalisation is helping health insurers overcome this challenge with ease. With Wearable devices are going to rule the future of your healthcare health insurers can extract crucial information about your lifestyle, which goes a long way in risk assessment and compute premium accordingly.

For instance, if you are leading a healthy life, insurers can know it through vital data such as your BMI, heart rate, sleep hours, etc. In such a scenario, when you renew your health insurance policy, the premium amount will come down.

Craft tailor-made products and be competitive

Personalisation is the new-age success mantra. Every industry is looking to craft tailor-made products, as per the needs of customers, and strike a chord with the target segment. The key data of the target audience is aiding health insurers create products suiting the needs of their customers.

For example, health insurers can better understand the diseases affecting senior citizens such as Alzheimer’s and are coming up with specific mediclaim policy for this ailment. Some insurers are even adding coverage for this disease in their existing plans. Along with personalisation, it’s important to innovate.

Your kidneys may be small, but they play a vital role in keeping your body healthy. They filter waste and excess fluids from your blood, help control blood pressure and produce hormones that support strong bones and red blood cell production. Despite their importance, many people unknowingly adopt habits that can slowly damage their kidneys over time. The good news is that you can change these habits to protect your kidneys and stay healthy.

This blog will discuss some common habits that may harm your kidneys and share some simple ways to look after them.

Common habits that may harm your kidneys

Many everyday habits may seem harmless, but over time, they put extra stress on your kidneys and lead to serious problems.

Smoking

Smoking not only increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases but also narrows the blood vessels present in the kidneys, causing arteriosclerosis in the renal arteries.

A habit that damages arterial branches, smoking also reduces blood flow in the kidneys and expedites the loss of kidney function. Therefore, to protect your organs, it's in your interest to quit smoking at the earliest.

Not urinating enough

This is another habit which is significantly bad for kidney health. If you don't urinate enough, the body and the kidneys retain all the toxins meant to be flushed out.

Over time, this could lead to kidney stones that are quite painful. Also, it could result in the developing of urinary incontinence, a condition which leads to leaking urine during coughing or sneezing.

Not drinking enough water

For the kidneys to properly function, they need to remain hydrated. This is possible only when you drink enough water. Lack of adequate water in the system leads to toxins accumulating in the blood. An easy way to find out if you are drinking enough water or not is to check your urine. If your urine is dark, it means the water intake is insufficient.

Consuming too many sweets

It's hard to resist the temptation for sweets, but eating too many of them too often can damage your kidneys. As per a study, consuming a lot of sweets could lead to a rise in the levels of uric acid, leading to cardiorenal diseases in the long run. If you have diabetes, consuming sweets can worsen the problem. Therefore, make sure to consume food that is low in sugar. For packaged foods, read the label before consumption.

Too much salt intake

This is another habit that can have a detrimental effect on your kidneys. Several people have the habit of adding extra salt to their food while eating. Consuming too much salt can raise blood pressure and may even lead to kidney stones. Hence, make sure to limit your daily salt intake for better kidney health. If you are an adult, you shouldn't consume more than one teaspoon of salt per day.

Skipping exercise

Regular exercise not only keeps your body in top shape but also has a positive impact on your kidneys. Exercise keeps your blood pressure and diabetes in check, and weight loss positively affects renal function.

Therefore, make sure to take some time out of your schedule and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy body weight.

Swallowing painkillers often

Most people, even in the slightest of pain, consume painkillers. While they do help to subdue the pain, taking these pills frequently can adversely affect the kidneys. Consuming painkillers, known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can often make the body hold onto fluids, and this can damage the kidneys in the long run. Before consuming them, it's essential to check with your doctor first.

Not eating right

To keep your kidneys healthy, plan your meals properly. Note that eating healthy doesn't necessarily mean that you are eating right. If your kidneys are strained, then it's essential to avoid food that is high in phosphorus, such as tomatoes, phosphorus-rich oatmeal, oranges, fish, meat and colas.

For a healthy kidney diet, consume plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits like peaches and apples, among others. Also, drinking rice milk can have a good effect on your kidneys.

Heavy alcohol consumption

Kidneys help the body filter out harmful substances, and alcohol is one of them. Therefore, heavy alcohol consumption can put a lot of pressure on your kidneys and can damage them in the long run.

Note that alcohol causes dehydration, and excess levels can cause organs, including the kidneys, to become dehydrated, affecting their performance.

10 habits for healthy kidneys

Now that you know which habits to avoid, here are some positive habits you can start today to keep your kidneys strong:

1. Stay well hydrated: Drinking enough water each day helps your kidneys do their job. Aim for about 6-8 glasses a day, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
2. Eat a balanced diet: Focus on fresh foods like vegetables, fruit, fish, lean meat, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Limit salty, sugary and fatty foods as much as possible.
3. Keep a healthy weight: Having extra weight can increase your risk of high blood pressure and diabetes, which are bad for your kidneys. Try to stay active and eat smaller portions if you need to lose weight.
4. Control your blood pressure: Get your blood pressure checked regularly. If it is too high, follow your doctor’s advice about diet, exercise and any medicines you need to take.
5. Manage your blood sugar: If you have diabetes, control your blood sugar carefully with a healthy diet, exercise and medication if needed. Uncontrolled diabetes is one of the biggest causes of kidney failure.
6. Exercise regularly: Try to move more during the day, even simple activities like walking. Aim for moderate exercise five days a week. Exercise helps control blood pressure and weight, which protects your kidneys.
7. Get enough sleep: Most people need 7-8 hours of good-quality sleep every night. Better sleep means better health for your kidneys and your whole body.
8. Quit smoking: Quitting smoking improves blood flow, lowers blood pressure and helps your kidneys function better. If you are struggling to stop, consider seeking support.
9. Limit alcohol: Try to drink alcohol only in moderation. Excessive drinking can damage many organs, including your kidneys.
10. Pay attention to warning signs: Unusual tiredness, swelling in the ankles or changes in your urine may be early signs of kidney problems. These symptoms should never be ignored.

If you or someone in your household notices worrying symptoms, don’t delay seeing a doctor. A health insurance policy for family can help cover the cost of appointments and tests, making it easier for everyone to get the care they need.

Conclusion

Your kidneys work hard for you every day, filtering waste and keeping your body in balance. But they can be damaged by habits you might not even think about. However, small, daily changes, like staying hydrated, eating well, and getting regular sleep, can have a big impact over time.

Regular health check-ups are just as essential as they help catch any issues early. With the right health insurance, these checks become easier and more affordable. If you'd like support with choosing the right cover, you can get simple, helpful advice about health insurance by filling out the form on this page.

FAQs

• How much water should I drink each day?

Most people should aim for around 6-8 glasses of water per day, unless their doctor has told them otherwise.

• Can you reverse kidney damage?

Some kidney problems can be improved if found early, but long-term damage is often permanent. That is why prevention is so important.

• Are herbal supplements safe for the kidneys?

Some herbal products can be harmful to your kidneys. Always check with a doctor before taking any supplements.

• Is coffee bad for your kidneys?

Moderate amounts of coffee are usually fine for most people, but too much caffeine can raise blood pressure, which may harm your kidneys over time.

• What foods are best for kidney health?

Fresh vegetables, fruit, whole grains, fish, lean meats, nuts and seeds are good choices. Try to limit processed, salty and sugary foods.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Mental health is just as important to take into consideration as physical health. In recent years, more people in India have started to understand the importance of mental well-being. Stress, anxiety and depression are becoming common problems due to fast-paced lifestyles, work pressure and personal struggles. That’s why it’s important to have mental health insurance.

In this article, you will get a closer look at what mental health insurance is, why it is important, what it covers and how you can choose the right plan for yourself or your family.

What is mental health insurance?

Mental health insurance is a sort of medical insurance that covers the costs of inpatient treatment for many mental illnesses. In India, mental health insurance coverage became mandatory for all health insurance providers after the enactment of the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017. 

Just like regular health insurance covers hospital stays, surgeries and medicines for physical diseases, mental health insurance helps pay for therapy, counselling, hospitalisation and medication related to mental health conditions. This insurance helps people get professional help without worrying too much about the cost.

Importance of mental health insurance coverage

Mental illnesses can affect any person, regardless of gender, age or background. In India, many people still feel ashamed or afraid to talk about mental health, but things are slowly changing. Awareness is growing, and more people are seeking help.

Here are some reasons why a mental health insurance plan is important:

• High treatment costs: Psychiatric treatment, therapy sessions and long-term care can be expensive. Without insurance, these costs may quickly add up.
• Support during crisis: Mental illnesses can become serious if not treated on time. Insurance helps you get timely help without delay.
• Financial security: With insurance, you don’t need to dip into your savings or take loans to pay for treatment.
• Encourages seeking help: When people know they are covered, they are more likely to go for counselling or therapy without hesitation.
• Long-term care: Some mental health conditions need continuous treatment and monitoring. Insurance can help cover ongoing expenses.

Who should take mental health insurance?

Mental health insurance is beneficial for anyone who wants to prioritise their emotional and psychological well-being, especially those more vulnerable to mental health challenges. This includes individuals with a history of mental health conditions, as ongoing support and treatment may be necessary.

Young adults and students can also benefit, as the pressures of education, career planning and social expectations often contribute to increased stress and emotional strain. Additionally, professionals in high-stress jobs may face burnout or anxiety-related issues, making mental health coverage an important aspect of their overall healthcare plan.

Mental health insurance for parents is also important, as they may face emotional challenges related to retirement, loneliness or chronic illness.

What does mental health insurance cover?

Some of the common mental illnesses that are covered by the mental healthcare plan in India are:

• Depressive disorders: These are disorders that affect your mood and cause persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt or loss of interest. They can also affect your appetite, sleep, energy and concentration.
• Bipolar disorders: These are disorders that cause extreme mood swings between highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). They can also affect your energy, activity, judgement and behaviour.
• Anxiety disorders: These are disorders that cause excessive fear, nervousness or worry, interfering with your daily life. They can also manifest as sweating, shaking, having a fast heartbeat or difficult breathing.
• Stress disorders: These can happen after going through something very upsetting or scary, like a significant trauma or stressful experience. They can cause symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance, hypervigilance or irritability.
• Schizophrenia: These include conditions that impact one's perception of reality, leading to experiences such as hallucinations (perceiving things that do not exist), delusions (holding false beliefs unsupported by reality) or disorganised thinking (uttering confused or illogical speech and displaying erratic behaviour).

Exclusions of mental health insurance cover

Health insurance for mental health does not cover all mental health conditions. Some of the common exclusions that you should be aware of:

• Mental retardation: This includes a condition where the mind does not fully develop, and it usually means a person has lower intelligence. Mental retardation is not seen as a mental illness, according to the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017. Thus, it is not included in a typical health insurance policy for mental illness.
• Mental illness from drug abuse: This means any mental problem linked to the improper use of drugs, alcohol or tobacco. These conditions are also excluded from mental health insurance coverage, as a natural disorder of the mind does not cause them.
• Pre-existing mental illness: Some insurance companies may impose a waiting period for covering any mental illness that was diagnosed or treated before buying the policy. This means that you may not be able to claim any expenses related to your pre-existing mental condition until the waiting period is over.

Tips for selecting a mental health insurance plan

Choosing the right mental health insurance plan can feel overwhelming, but a few key checks can simplify the process. First, ensure the policy covers a broad range of mental health conditions and treatments. Compare multiple plans to evaluate benefits, coverage and premium costs.

Check if the insurer’s network includes reputable hospitals and mental health centres near you. A shorter waiting period is ideal, and a simple, hassle-free claim process can make a big difference during tough times. Reading customer reviews and ratings can also help you assess service quality.

If mental health issues run in the family, consider a family floater plan. Some plans may require you to pay a part of the bill. Make sure you are aware of the co-payment clause.

If you are not sure where to start, we are here to help. Simply fill out the form on this page, and we will guide you with the right advice for your mental health insurance needs.

Conclusion

Mental health is a vital aspect of overall well-being. A mental health insurance plan is a smart way to stay prepared for unexpected situations and get the right help when needed. By understanding what mental health insurance covers and how it works, you can make better decisions for yourself and your family. Don’t wait for a crisis to think about it. Plan ahead and protect your mental well-being with the right insurance cover.

FAQs

• Can I get mental health insurance if I already have a mental illness?

It depends on the insurance company. Some may include it after a waiting period, while others may not cover pre-existing conditions.

• Does mental health insurance cover therapy sessions?

Some plans do, but not all. You need to check the specific policy details.

• What is the waiting period for a mental health insurance plan?

Most plans have a waiting period of 2 to 3 years for mental illness coverage.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Ways to stay in shape along with a routine 9-5 job

Workouts are optimised around physiology and what we know about our body. Humans generally have a good capacity to expand energy for many hours during sustained exertion.

For working people, long working hours are one of the most common reasons for not exercising. However for runners, the challenge is to be a ‘Ninja’ and plan stealthy workouts when the schedule is overflowing.

Key Work-outs

There are few key work-outs that every runner must plan for the week and are very essential. Typically these would be speed sessions, strength work-outs and long runs. This way there is time to recover and then run hard. The first run can be planned at the start of the week followed by the strength workout on Wednesday and long run towards the weekend.

It is very important to warm up before all of your key workouts to elevate heart and respiration rates along with proper resting period as the body gets catabolic (the breakdown of tissues) when it hits aerobic capacity for too long. Short and Intense runs are good for speed work. 50m sprints would be helpful to move feet quickly and adapt a good running technique. The session need not last more than 60-90 minutes.

Plan repeat runs against a hill or up-slope to build running strength. Butt kicks can be done on the way down. Long runs need to be faster than the average pace needed for the next race. The idea is to run negative splits - to finish faster than you start. It can improve mental toughness and build pace awareness.

The history of getting tattooed goes into the deep past of early divisions of Stone Age. However, in recent times, tattooing has become increasingly popular and has unfurled itself across professionals, genders, different economic classes, and various age groups.

For some, getting inked is a fashion statement, for some, it’s a source of inspiration and for some, it’s a way to express their love and ideology, while for others it’s a creative art. No matter what your purpose is, it’s important to be well informed of the process and be adequately prepared before going under the needle to avoid its ill effects on your body.

Here we’ve compiled a list of points that you should keep in mind before getting yourself inked:

Be sure about your decision

It’s imperative for you to be certain about your decision. Understand that tattoos are somewhat permanent in nature. Yes, they can be removed using laser treatment, but that’s a long and expensive process. In case of large and detailed tattoos, getting them off can be too frustrating. Also, keep in mind that with time, the color of the tattoo will fade, and its shape may also change owing to the changing folds of your skin with growing age.

Know how it will affect your body

The tattoo is created using a needle that ruptures your skin and deposit the tattoo ink at the point of rupture. The puncture goes beyond the epidermis, for the ink to stay. The needle reaches the dermis where it meets with the nerves and blood vessels. The ink used for tattooing is not exclusively made for the human skin.

Also, it has been found that over the time, these pigments can assimilate in the liver through blood. Hence, before getting inked, be sure about your body will react to such foreign particles.

Know your pain tolerance

As mentioned above, tattoo needle penetrates deep into your skin to deposit the ink beyond the epidermis. Be informed that this can be a painful process. Hence, before you get under the needle, be aware of your ability to bear such pain and for how long you can sustain it, so as not to abandon the process in between, which may make it look ugly.

Get a cost estimation

Do not go after the cheaper options while getting yourself tattooed. It’s better to shell out few bucks from your pocket now rather than getting your skin infected with inferior quality inks and regret later. Also, ask the tattoo artist about the healing process and the maintenance costs post-tattoo. Before starting with the process, make sure you have a fair idea about the total amount of money that you would have to spend during the whole process.

Cataract is a vision disorder that can lead to blindness. Read on to know more about its prevention.

According to a WHO report, cataracts are responsible for 51% of world blindness. It is also the main cause of vision loss in people over the age of 40, which makes preventing cataract essential. Before taking precautionary measures, it’s important to understand what cataract is and what are its effects.

What Is Cataract?

Cataract is clouding of the eye lens, which results in blurred vision. It occurs due to accumulation of protein on the lens surface, which blocks light to reach the retina. This results in reduced visual acuity and blurred vision, which makes things appear as if looking through a foggy window. Symptoms of cataract include blurred vision, frequent change in eyeglass prescription, increased sensitivity to light, seeing halos around bright lights, or double vision.

Risk Factors for Developing Cataract

Several risk factors contribute to the development of cataract, age being the most common one. The risk factors include:

• Age: There is a greater risk of developing cataract as you grow older. This is because of exposure to environmental factors such as UV light, smoke, and other health disorders that lead to cataract.


• Gender: Women have a higher chance of getting cataracts than men. Studies have linked this to menopause, which causes decrease in oestrogen levels leading to the development of cataracts.


• Health conditions: Health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are also known to increase the risk of cataracts.


• Environmental conditions: Exposure to UV rays and smoke directly affect vision and make one more susceptible to developing cataracts.

Cataract Prevention Methods

While there are debates on whether cataract can be prevented, research shows that there are measures you can take to reduce the risk of getting cataract. Here are some ways that can reduce your chances of getting cataract:

• Lifestyle habits: Excessive smoking and alcohol consumption severely affect your eye health. Both these habits increase the chances of developing cataract. Reducing or quitting them is advisable for reducing the risk of cataract and an overall improvement in your health.


• Diet: Ensure inclusion of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote eye health in your diet. Dark green leafy vegetable such as spinach, kale, turnip, etc. improve eye health. Besides this, sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as fresh water fish and flaxseed further reduce the risk.


• Steroid medication: Usage of steroid medicine is said to increase the chances of developing cataracts. Know the risk factors or consult your eye doctor before starting new medication. It is better to avoid them unless specified by an ophthalmologist.


• Protect your eyes: Exposure to UV rays hastens the development of cataract, even in younger patients. Always shield your eyes from UV rays, either with a wide-brimmed hat or sunglasses with UV protection while outdoors.


• Diabetes: Studies show that diabetics are more prone to developing a cataract. It’s necessary for these patients to maintain their blood sugar to prevent cataracts. Take proper medication to keep a tab on your diabetes.


• Regular check-ups: Schedule regular eye exams, especially as you grow older. Your eye doctor can detect cataract and other vision disorders when you cannot. With early detection, your doctor can prescribe the best treatment for you.

In addition to the physical suffering and mental trauma, cancer also comes with a massive financial burden. This blog talks about how to choose the right health insurance plan with cancer coverage.

Cancer awareness is essential in order to take an informed decision

In spite of the progress in research and technology, cancer is still one of the most lethal diseases out there. While there are no guaranteed ways of reducing the risk of cancer, there is a responsible decision you can make to reduce the financial burden in the face of such odds. That is choosing a right insurance cover.

Need for Health Insurance with Cancer Cover

The thought of being diagnosed with cancer is frightening but what’s more distressing is the probability of that becoming reality. About 70 to 90 percent of all cancers are because of environmental factors instead of the genetic make-up. It is crucial to protect yourself by opting for health insurance with cancer cover.

Cancer is a very taxing disease, physically , emotionally, and financially. Cancer treatment involves massive costs that keep increasing as the disease progresses. The last thing a person suffering with cancer needs is the burden of the heavy treatment costs. A health insurance with cancer cover will be a much needed source of relief in such stressful times.

When choosing a policy, you must compare quotes from different insurers to find a plan that fits your budget. Make sure to determine how much coverage you need, depending on potential medical expenses, including treatments, hospitalisation, ambulance costs and other associated costs.

Types of Cancer Covered by Insurance Plans

Most insurance plans with cancer cover various types of cancers like lung cancer, stomach cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and more, depending on the plan you opt for.

Coverage Against Multiple Stages of Cancer

There are four stages of cancer ranging from the early stage to the critical stage. An important thing to keep in mind while getting cancer cover with health insurance is to check whether it covers all the stages and meets the financial demands of each stage.

Term of the Plan and Tax Benefits

The term of the plan is essential. Some plans have maximum term of 20 years, which may seem like a long time now but if you get it at 30, it will cease to cover you once you turn 50. You should go through the term of different plans carefully and choose the one that suits your needs.

Also remember, under section 80D of the Income Tax Act, cancer insurance plans are liable to avail tax benefits.

Things to Consider

There are a few things you need to consider before you buy health insurance with cancer coverage. You need to check if the insurance will support critical illness treatment costs even after the first diagnosis, whether the benefits differ depending on the different stages of cancer and if there will be a waiver of premium upon diagnosis.

Now that you know the need and benefits of a cancer cover, make it a point to have it included in your health insurance plan.

Updated on 1 Dec 2025

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), covers a wide range of conditions affecting social skills, speech, behaviour and communication. Some children with autism need help every day, while others might need only a little support or even live on their own.

Autism has no known cure yet. However, there are lots of therapies and treatments that can help reduce symptoms and make life better for those with autism. The government offers a individual health insurance scheme called ‘Niramaya’, which offers a sum assured of up to ₹1 lakh for the treatment and care of children with developmental disabilities like autism, cerebral palsy and so on.The scheme covers outpatient treatments including those for pre-existing ailments, and expenses for corrective surgeries and non-surgical hospitalisation. However, the question arises is whether the amount  this scheme offers is actually enough.

Currently, there are very few policies in the health insurance market that cover autism-related expenses.

Benefits of getting insurance for autistic kids

A health insurance policy for children with autism provides definite health coverage. The benefits of some of the plans include:

• The policyholder can claim for daycare procedures.
• If covered under outpatient care, the insured receives compensation for occupational, speech, behavioural and physical therapies.
• Hospitalisation costs up to a specific amount (according to the policy terms) per day are covered. This includes boarding fees, nursing charges, room rent and more.
• Some plans include costs for medical services such as seizures, botox injections, tonsillectomy, physiotherapy, speech therapy and similar treatments.
• Some plans also offer teleconsultations and lifetime renewability.

Limitations of basic health insurance options for autistic kids

There are certain limitations to the health insurance policy coverage for autistic kids. SOme of the common exclusions include:

• Expenses from gender change, plastic surgery, skincare procedures and similar treatments.
• Minor charges such as hospital registration and phone usage.
• Alternative practices like naturopathy.
• Unless pre-approved, high-cost treatments such as stem cell therapy, immunotherapy, bone marrow transplant and psychological therapy are not available.
• Some therapies may be included only with a doctor’s permission. For example, stem cell therapy.

Need for customised autism health cover in insurance.

Special autism insurance is important for three main reasons. First, the number of children diagnosed with autism is increasing, making ASD the second most common serious developmental disability after intellectual disability. Second, autism treatments are complex and expensive. ASD affects a child’s development, including his/her speech, gestural, non-verbal and social interaction with his/her peers. So, it’s not just paediatrics that needs to be taken care of with ASD; therapy for all the above also becomes necessary. Third, families of children with autism frequently face difficulties accessing quality services and report less satisfaction compared to families of children with other health issues. For these reasons, autism care demands multi-disciplinary treatment along with improved financial support through specialised insurance.

Health insurance coverage required for autistic kids

An autistic child would require multi-disciplinary treatment. So, along with regular visits to a paediatrician, they would need assistance and care from a psychiatrist, a counsellor, a special educator, a speech therapist and an occupational therapist. Consulting all of these people is quite expensive, and can lead to the annual cost of treatment being as high as ₹2-3 lakh.

Moreover, children with ASD are accident-prone, and the treatment and care for these accidents further add to the cost of treatment. Therefore, one would require a coverage of a minimum ₹4-5 lakh to cover the complete cost of treatment for autism.

Conclusion

Proper insurance for children with autism can ease the financial burden for families. While government schemes offer some support, a customised health insurance policy with higher coverage limits helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses for therapies, hospitalisation and other treatments. As awareness about autism and its costs grows, more insurance companies are expected to introduce better policies tailored to the needs of autistic children.

Early planning and the right insurance cover can provide peace of mind and ensure continuous support for the child’s well-being. To learn more about suitable insurance options and find the best plan for your child, fill out the form on this page now and get personalised assistance.

FAQ

• Does typical health insurance cover treatments like speech or occupational therapy for autistic children?

Some basic health insurance plans cover therapies such as speech, occupational and behavioural therapy only partially and some not at all. Special add-ons or customised plans may be needed to adequately cover these expenses.

• How much insurance coverage is recommended for a child with autism?

Given the cost of multi-disciplinary treatment, experts recommend insurance coverage of at least ₹4-5 lakh annually.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

There are some key differences that make super top-ups highly beneficial.

Inflation and demand for specialty healthcare have led to a rise in basic medical expenses. In case of hospitalisation and a claim, one often realises that while having a complete health insurance policy was a great financial decision, the sum assured was a constrain. It is often noted that rising healthcare costs render the cover insufficient.

Thankfully, you can avoid such a situation by opting for either a top-up plan or a super top-up plan. In some cases, a third alternative is to opt for an additional policy. However, for most cases, a top-up is the ideal way ahead as it enhances the sum assured of your base plan to cover the shortfall. Let us learn more about Top-Ups and Super Top-Ups:

Top-Up Plans

The Top-Up allows you to make a claim that exceeds the deductible value & the sum assured of the base policy during a single hospitalisation. All claims are treated individually in this cover and multiple claims under the same policy period are not aggregated. The deductible is the limit set in your policy schedule.

Super Top-Ups

A Super Top-Up pays claims for cumulative medical expenses within a policy year once it exceeds the deductible and the sum assured of the base policy. It offers coverage not payable by your top-up or base plan. Such a plan can be availed from any insurer and is not limited to your base policy insurer.

While both top-ups kick in only after the claim amount exceeds the deductible and the sum assured of the base policy, the difference lies in its working. The illustration below will help you better understand how both these plans are beneficial.

So you’ve opted for health insurance to safeguard your finances against the soaring healthcare costs. Now that you have this assurance, it is important to understand how the claim process works to ensure smooth proceedings during an emergency.

 Opposed to common belief, the health insurance claim process is relatively easy. By understanding this, you can simplify claim filing and ensure timely settlements. Whether you are going for a cashless facility or reimbursement, this blog is your guide to all the steps to a successful health insurance claim.

How to Make a Health Insurance Claim?

To make a successful insurance claim, you should be familiar with the policy's terms, inclusions, exclusions, and limits. Follow these steps to initiate a claim-

1. Inform your insurance provider about the medical treatment or hospitalisation immediately.
2. Check the health insurance plan paper and collect all required documents for filing a claim.
3. Submit the claim following the guidelines provided by your insurer.
4. Keep track of the claim process through the online portal or customer service of the insurance provider.

Types of Health Insurance Claims 

Health insurance claims can be divided into two types- cashless and reimbursement claims. Both have unique processes and specific documentation requirements.

Cashless Claims

Cashless claims can be made at a network hospital only. Once your claim is approved, the amount will be paid directly to the hospital without your further involvement.

Reimbursement Claims

Reimbursement claims can be filed for treatment in a non-network or a network hospital. Post-hospitalisation, you have to pay for all the expenses immediately and file for reimbursement later.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Filing a Cashless Health Insurance Claim

Follow these steps if you are opting for a cashless insurance claim:

1. Choose a network hospital of the insurance provider for getting treatment.
2. Inform the insurer about the planned or emergency hospitalisation.
3. Submit the pre-authorisation form at the hospital.
4. Get the pre-authorisation approved by the insurer.
5. The insurance provider will take care of the bills.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Filing a Reimbursement Claim

For reimbursement claims, no pre-authorisation form is generally needed. However, after discharge, you need to submit all the documents on the out-of-pocket expenses. You can mail these documents along with the duly filled claim form to your service provider or TPA.

1. Notify the insurer about the hospitalisation
2. Pay the medical bills upfront
3. Collect the hospital bills, medicine prescriptions, and test reports
4. Fill out the claim form, attach the required documents, and submit.
5. Await the review and processing of the claim by the insurer.

Types of Hospitalisations Covered by Health Insurance Claims

The most common types of hospitalisations covered by medical insurance providers are-

1. Planned Hospitalisation: For elective surgeries or treatments scheduled in advance
2. Emergency Hospitalisation: Unplanned medical situations that require immediate attention
3. Day-care Treatment: Medical procedure that does not need 24-hour hospitalisation
4. Domiciliary Hospitalisation: Treatments done at home due to the inability to transfer the patient to a medical unit

In the case of planned hospitalisation at a network hospital, the specified time required to intimate your insurance company is at least 1-2 days in advance. For emergency hospitalisation, you have to inform the insurer within 24 hours.

Documents Needed to File a Health Insurance Claim

Before filling out a health insurance claim, make sure to have the following documents ready-

1. Completed claim form 
2. Original hospital bills with a breakdown of the cost
3. A summary of hospitalisation and treatments or discharge summary
4. Prescription, test reports, and diagnostic results
5. Identity proof of the policyholder or patient
6. Bank details in case of reimbursement claims

Things to Consider While Applying for a Health Insurance Claim

There are certain points that you need to know before applying for a health insurance claim-

1. Waiting Period: Ensure the policy covers the health condition without any waiting period restrictions.
2. Deadlines: All claims must be submitted on time to ensure smooth processing.
3. Network Hospitals: Check the hospitals on the insurance provider’s network to benefit from a cashless claim facility. 
4. Pre-existing Conditions: See if the insurance claim covers pre-existing health conditions.

Tips to Avoid Health Insurance Claim Rejections

Notifying the insurer on time, providing correct information, and submitting completed documents are some of the important steps to avoid claim rejections.

Make sure to-

• Disclose accurate personal and medical details while buying the policy
• Adhere to the terms of the policy
• Submit all required documents with claim form
• Inform the policy provider on time about hospitalisation
• Review all forms and fills before submitting

Steps to Check the Status of a Health Insurance Claim

You can check the status of your health insurance claim in the following ways-

Website

1. Go to the online portal of the insurance provider.
2. Give your login credentials and the claim reference number to get the status.

Customer care service

1. Call the customer care department of the insurance provider
2. As requested, provide your claim reference number and other details to know the claim status.

Mobile app

1. Download the mobile application of the insurer
2. Login with your details
3. Enter your policy number and get the status of your claim.

Email updates

 Check your inbox for any status updates sent from the insurance provider.

FAQS

1. What is the difference between cashless and reimbursement claims?

Cashless claims are direct settlements between the insurance provider and the hospital, while reimbursement claims include the policyholder, who the insurer repays after the hospital bills have been paid upfront.

2. Can I file a claim for pre-existing conditions?

You can file a claim for pre-existing conditions after the waiting period as specified by the policy.

3. When does a claim get rejected?

A claim can be rejected due to non-disclosure of important information, delay in claim filing, or in case the medical condition is beyond the coverage provided by the policy. Always provide correct details and adhere to important deadlines to avoid a claim rejection.

4. What happens if a claim is rejected?

In case of a claim rejection, you can contact the insurance provider with additional documents or clarification and follow their guidelines to clear the issue.

5. Can I file multiple claims in a year?

Yes, if the total claim amount is under the sum insured by the policy, you can file for more than one claim in a year.

6. Can I make a yearly claim for insurance?

Yes, you can make a yearly claim on your health insurance within the limit allowed by the policy.

7. What is a claim investigation?

Claim investigation helps insurance companies analyse and differentiate fraudulent claims from genuine ones. Your claim form and documents will be thoroughly scrutinised and a suitable decision will be made. Therefore, ensure you fill in the details correctly in the form and submit the documents as per the requirement.

Conclusion

Having a health insurance plan is not enough, timely filing of claims during an emergency is essential to gain complete benefit of the policy. The claim process is simple to ensure the policyholder gets the required financial support during a health crisis. However, it is essential to be familiar with the steps of filing a claim and the necessary documents required to ensure the procedure is hassle-free.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.  

In today's times, when critical illnesses and medical inflation are on the rise, a wellness program comes as a relief for policyholders. Read on to understand wellness programs and their benefits.

What is a wellness program?

ICICI Lombard General Insurance offers wellness program along with your health insurance policy or super top-up plan. Through it, you, as a policyholder, are rewarded with wellness points for keeping yourself hale and hearty by pursuing any of the activities covered. These points can be redeemed later as per the redemption terms and conditions, subject to a maximum.

Why should I opt for a wellness program with my health insurance policy?

According to a recent report published by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the probability of death in India from the four major non-communicable diseases – cancer, cardiovascular, chronic respiratory,and diabetes,is 26% for individuals aged 30-70 years. Let us have a look at the probable underlying causes:

As evident, these four diseases can be prevented or controlled with a small yet significant change in lifestyle. While diseases caused by heredity, radiation and infections are not avoidable after a certain extent, tobacco use and sedentary lifestyle should be controlled to ensure a long and healthy life.

Home insurance premiums may be exempted in the future

Fiscal Support Needed for Home Insurance

Insurance is a way of protecting oneself from a financial loss. It provides the insured a hedge against unforeseen loss events. General insurance provides protection against loss to property, unanticipated expenses, or future income.

The government strives to improve insurance penetration, both life and non-life. It provides tax exemption for the amounts paid as premium for life insurance as well as health insurance.

The government is also involved in creating capacity for insuring risks from terrorism and motor third party damage. Property insurance is of equal importance. Almost every business entity insures its property – factory and/or office premises. Home insurance is as good as non-existent.

Individuals Consider Home Insurance Avoidable

There is an absolute lack of awareness about home insurance. Even the sections of the population that are aware of and avail life and health insurance are ignorant of the importance of insuring their homes and belongings. It does not cost much but the premium for home insurance is considered a cost that can be avoided. General insurance companies have negligible portfolios of home insurance.

In 2013, the Insurance Regulatory Development Authority of India (IRDAI) asked health insurance companies to provide cover for Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) treatments. Similarly, there are several ongoing government initiatives also, to promote alternative medicine, including the promise for an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)-like Ayurveda hospital. In November 2014, the Department of AYUSH was elevated by forming a government body – Ministry of AYUSH – in order to develop education and research in the natural medicine departments and therefore make maximum medical assistance available to patients.

What is AYUSH treatment?

The departments in AYUSH include Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) as well as other alternative medicine systems. The Department of Indian Systems of Medicine and Homeopathy was started in March 1995, whereas the name AYUSH was coined in March 2003.

Despite such government initiatives and interventions to popularize AYUSH, both the rural and urban Indian population are still largely inclined toward allopathic treatments. According to the National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO), 90% of the Indian population – both rural and urban – prefer allopathic treatments over alternative healthcare options.

However, AYUSH offers several benefits over allopathy, especially for recuperation from critical illnesses like cancer. It is believed to cause minimum side effects and considered to focus on treating the cause of the disease rather than just the symptoms. The treatment methods use organic components and are more cost effective.

Importance of AYUSH treatment coverage in health insurance

With the IRDAI move asking insurers to provide cover for AYUSH treatments, the demand for health insurance for alternative treatments has increased to some extent. An AYUSH cover in your health insurance policy covers in-patient hospitalization expenses.

Key features and benefits of AYUSH treatment in health insurance

A health insurance plan offering AYUSH coverage typically includes:

• In-patient hospitalisation: Coverage for hospitalisation expenses incurred during AYUSH treatments, provided the hospitalisation lasts at least 24 hours.
• Wide network of hospitals: Access to government and government-recognised hospitals offering AYUSH treatments.
• Comprehensive coverage: Inclusion of various AYUSH systems, allowing policyholders to choose treatments aligning with their health beliefs and conditions.

Eligibility criteria for AYUSH

To avail of AYUSH coverage in a health insurance plan, policyholders generally need to meet the following criteria:

• Age requirements: Typically, individuals aged 18 to 65 years are eligible.
• Hospitalisation duration: A minimum of 24 hours of hospitalisation is required to claim benefits.
• Recognised institutions: Treatments must be undertaken at government hospitals or institutions accredited by the Quality Council of India or the National Accreditation Board of Health.

Inclusions & exclusions of AYUSH health insurance

Before considering health insurance for AYUSH, it is important to have an idea of its coverages and limitations of the policy.

• The medical expenses incurred for in-patient treatment taken under Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy will be covered in the policy. We also reimburse enrolment fees paid by the policyholder to Yoga institutes as part of our preventive and wellness healthcare add-on. The sum insured for this benefit ranges from ₹2,500- ₹20,000 depending on the plan.
• It is important to remember that AYUSH cover covers expenses for alternate treatment, only when the treatment is undergone in a government hospital or in any institute recognized by the government and/or accredited by Quality Council of India/National Accreditation Board on Health (NABH).

Reasons to choose AYUSH treatment

Opting for AYUSH treatments offers several benefits:

• Personalised care: Treatments are often designed for individual needs, promoting personalised healthcare.
• Natural healing methods: Emphasis on natural remedies and techniques supports the body's intrinsic healing processes. It can be a great addition to family health insurance, where prolonged care for lifestyle and age-related issues is required.
• Cultural alignment: For many, AYUSH treatments align with cultural and personal health beliefs, enhancing comfort and trust in the healing process.

FAQs

1. Are AYUSH treatments covered under all health insurance plans?

Not all health insurance plans include AYUSH coverage. It's essential to check with your insurer or review the policy details to confirm inclusion.

2. Can I claim AYUSH treatment expenses for outpatient procedures?

Generally, AYUSH coverage applies to in-patient treatments requiring hospitalisation for over 24 hours. Outpatient procedures are typically not covered.

3. Are there any additional premiums for AYUSH coverage?

Some insurers may include AYUSH coverage within standard plans, while others might offer it as an add-on requiring an extra premium. It is always useful to talk to the insurance provider to understand the costs involved before buying the policy.

Conclusion

AYUSH benefits that focus on providing alternative care and healthcare solutions for various issues, added to your health insurance plan, can be a simple but useful choice that allows for holistic and varied healthcare. Understand the scope of the policy you are buying, eligibility criteria, and features of AYUSH coverage before you make your decision to add it to your insurance. Review the policy carefully and remember- you can always get in touch with a good insurance provider to get answers to your queries. It is better to be informed before making any decisions to ensure that it supports your overall well-being.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Life is full of uncertainties and health insurance is the best way of protecting yourself from them. Often people insure their health, home and assets but ignore their source of income. An accident can leave you partially or permanently disabled for the rest of your life and result in loss of income.

A majority of casualties arise due to road accidents and the numbers of accidents have increased in the past few years. Most accident-related policies have a permanent or partial disability cover where a fixed percentage of sum insured is paid to the policyholder depending on the nature of disability.

While choosing a policy you must opt for income protection benefits depending on your monthly expenditure. The benefits of monthly income are triggered only in the event of death or permanent disability. For temporary disability, income protection benefit would be available only for a brief period.

India has a robust universal healthcare system in place to provide accessible and affordable medical services to its vast population. Despite this, many deadly diseases are still killing a huge number of people every year. Some of these illnesses are caused by microorganisms, while others are a result of our lifestyle and pollution.

In this blog, you will learn about the top 10 deadliest diseases in India. You will also see how lifestyle, environment, and healthcare play a big role.

The top 10 killer diseases in India

Here are the top 10 diseases that cause the most deaths in India:

1. Ischaemic Heart Disease (IHD)

A major cause of heart attacks, IHD results from narrowed blood vessels, reducing blood supply to the heart. It's the leading cause of death in India, responsible for about 13% of total deaths. Common risk factors include poor diet, high LDL, smoking and lack of physical activity.

2. Stroke

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. It's the second leading cause of death, accounting for nearly 7% of fatalities. High blood pressure is a major contributor, along with diabetes and high cholesterol.

3. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

This group of lung conditions, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, blocks airflow and causes breathing issues. It's responsible for around 6% of deaths, mostly due to tobacco use and exposure to air pollution.

4. Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTI)

Diseases affecting the lower part of the respiratory tract, like pneumonia and bronchitis, are particularly dangerous for young children and the elderly. These are caused by pathogens like bacteria, viruses and fungi. LRTI make up about 5–6% of deaths annually in India.

5. Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is often a result of an infection in the digestive tract. It can also be caused by allergies, digestive diseases, certain food intolerances, etc. Diarrhoea remains a leading killer, especially in children under five. It contributes to approximately 4% of total deaths in India every year.

6. Tuberculosis (TB)

India leads the world in TB cases. The airborne bacterial infection causes around 220,000 deaths each year. Malnutrition, overcrowding and drug-resistant strains have made TB a persistent public health threat.

7. Lung and other respiratory cancers

Lung cancer is a condition where cells in the lungs multiply in an uncontrolled manner to form malignant tumours. Smoking and air pollution are some risk factors for this condition. It is a rising cause of death in India, accounting for 8.1% of total cancer mortalities.

8. Diabetes mellitus

It is a chronic condition that impairs the body's ability to regulate blood sugar. India has over 100 million diabetic adults, and the condition is linked to complications like heart failure and kidney damage. It causes about 2% of deaths directly, with wider indirect impacts.

9. Hypertensive heart disease

This refers to heart conditions caused by high blood pressure over time. It includes heart failure and complications like arrhythmias. It’s increasingly common in India due to lifestyle shifts and contributes to 10.8% of deaths.

10. Kidney diseases

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is emerging as a silent killer. It is often linked to uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension. It’s responsible for 2.9% of deaths in India.

How India’s changing lifestyle is fuelling these diseases?

Over the last few decades, India’s way of life has changed a lot. More people now live in cities than in villages. Many work in offices, sit for long hours and eat fast food. Exercise has gone down, stress has gone up. Smoking and drinking are common, especially among young adults. All these lifestyle changes mean more people get diseases that used to be rare.

For example, diseases like diabetes, heart disease and some cancers are linked to an unhealthy lifestyle. Earlier, infections were India’s biggest killers. Now, “lifestyle diseases” are taking over.

The role of air pollution and environmental factors

Polluted air, contaminated water and unclean surroundings can make people sick. Here is how the environment is impacting health:

• Air pollution: PM2.5 and PM10 particles damage the lungs and heart
• Water pollution: unsafe drinking water leads to diarrhoea, cholera and digestive tract infections
• Soil contamination: chemicals in farming harm food safety
• Climate change: heatwaves, floods and new disease patterns

Why early diagnosis can save lives?

One major reason why many people die from these killer diseases is that they do not know they are sick until it is too late.

Why early diagnosis matters:

• Early treatment is more effective: Diseases caught early can often be cured or managed more easily. Early treatment stops the condition before it becomes too severe, giving the patient a far better chance of recovery.
• Lower cost of treatment: Finding a disease early means treatment is often cheaper due to simple medicines or minor procedures. Costly surgeries or long hospital stays are needed when the disease is advanced.
• Fewer complications: Early diagnosis prevents long-term damage to the body. For example, catching diabetes early can protect the kidneys and eyes. Spotting cancer early stops it from spreading to other organs.
• Better survival chances: Survival rates are much higher when treatment begins early. Late diagnosis means an advanced stage of the condition, fewer treatment options and a lower chance of survival.

Healthcare access in India: Urban vs rural divide

In India, there is a wide gap between urban and rural healthcare facilities. Cities have more hospitals and clinics with specialists and modern diagnostic facilities. People can get quality healthcare here, but it may come at a high cost. So, these hospitals are often only affordable to the high-income population. Also, in the urban areas, emergency services respond quickly and are often available 24*7.

In rural locations, hospitals with specialists and modern treatment facilities are often limited. The small clinics can provide affordable treatment for non-serious diseases. People usually have to travel long distances in case of emergencies to get quality medical help. Rural areas have slow or no emergency services, adding to the healthcare challenges.

How health insurance helps in managing critical illnesses?

Paying for treatment can drain your savings, as the medical costs in India are rising. That is why health insurance plans are becoming so important.

Here are the benefits of health insurance:

1. Covers expensive treatments

Health insurance pays for costly treatments that would otherwise be impossible for many people to afford.

2. Encourages regular check-ups

Many insurance plans include free health check-ups. These check-ups help people catch diseases early, improving survival chances and reducing the cost of treatment later.

3. Reduces financial stress

Knowing that health costs are covered helps families feel safer. They do not have to sell land or borrow huge amounts if a major illness happens. This protects them from falling into a financial crisis.

4. Supports better health choices

When people have insurance, they may be more willing to see a doctor for small problems instead of ignoring them. This leads to earlier treatment and healthier lives overall.

Conclusion

Many diseases are claiming lives that could often be saved with early action. Changing lifestyles, cleaner environments, better awareness and stronger healthcare systems can help reduce the mortality rate. You should take preventive measures to stay healthy and obtain health insurance to stay prepared in case of any medical emergencies.

If you are wondering how to obtain the ideal family health insurance, simply fill out the form on this page to get expert suggestions tailored to your needs.

FAQs

• Which disease kills the most people in India?

Heart illness is the biggest killer in the nation, responsible for around 31.8% of all deaths.

• How can people prevent lifestyle diseases?

To prevent lifestyle diseases, eat fresh food, exercise regularly, stop smoking and manage stress.

• Is air pollution really that dangerous?

Yes. It can cause asthma, lung cancer, heart attacks and strokes.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Updated on 28 Nov 2025

Fast food, also known as "junk food" by proponents of healthy eating, is nutritionally deficient edibles which only cater to your senses of sight, smell and taste. It is now everywhere. Many people eat it because it is quick, cheap and tasty. However, eating too much fast food is not good for your body or mind. It is important to know how fast food affects you so you can make better choices.

Is fast food bad for your health?

Fast foods are rich in fats (mostly, low-quality trans fats), artificial sugars, refined flours and chemical additives ( preservatives, improvers, flavour enhancers, etc.). It usually has a lot of calories but very few nutrients. The health hazards related to fast foods are inherently connected to either or all of their harmful ingredients, and also to the absence of other nutritious substances. Consuming it too often can harm your health in many ways. If you eat fast food too much, you might feel tired, sluggish and even sick over time.

Short-term impacts of fast food

Fast food can affect you straight away, even after just one meal. Here are some short-term problems:

• Feeling tired: Fast food is high in sugar and simple carbs. These give a quick burst of energy, but soon after, your energy crashes. This makes you feel sleepy or weak.
• Digestive problems: Fast food is low in fibre, which slows down digestion. After eating junk foods, you might feel bloated or have constipation.
• Mood swings: Fast food can cause your blood sugar to rise quickly, then fall fast. This can make you feel moody, irritated or sad.
• Dehydration: Salty fast foods can make you thirsty. If you do not drink enough water, you can become dehydrated.

These short-term impacts show how fast food can hurt you even if you only eat it once in a while.

Long-term impacts of fast food

The biggest worry with fast food is what happens if you eat it regularly. Over time, it can cause many health problems, including:

• Obesity: Fast food is high in calories, fat and sugar. If you eat more calories than you can burn, you will gain weight. Obesity is linked with diabetes, heart disease and even some cancers.
• Heart disease: Eating lots of fast food raises cholesterol and blood pressure. This damages your heart and blood vessels.
• Diabetes: Fast food is often full of refined carbs and sugar. Eating too much can make your body resistant to insulin, leading to type 2 diabetes.
• Liver damage: Too much fatty food can cause fats to build up in your liver, which may lead to liver disease.
• Dental problems: Sugary fast food and drinks can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

These long-term impacts can be serious, even deadly, if you do not make healthy changes. Treating these illnesses can be very expensive. Medicines, tests and hospital visits may cost a lot of money. This is why having medical insurance is important. It can help you manage the expenses for treatment and hospital stays.

Impact of fast food on mental health

Fast foods not only harm your body but also impact your mind. Here is how junk foods affect your mental health:

• Mood changes: Eating fast food often means you do not get enough vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. These nutrients help your brain work properly and balance your mood. Without them, you may feel more irritable, sad or worried.
• Low energy: Fast food is high in sugar. It gives you quick energy, but then your blood sugar drops suddenly. This can leave you feeling tired, angry or even hopeless.
• Stress and anxiety: Processed foods can make stress worse. They cause inflammation in the body, which may affect chemicals in your brain linked to anxiety and stress.
• Poor sleep: Fast food can also affect your sleep. If you do not sleep well, your mental health can suffer. Poor sleep is often linked to anxiety, depression and trouble thinking clearly.

Tips to avoid unhealthy food

It can be harder to avoid fast food because it is easily available, tasty and everywhere. However, there are ways to make better choices:

• Plan your meals: Try to plan what you will eat in advance. Bring home-made food to work or school instead of buying fast food.
• Keep healthy snacks: If you get hungry between meals, have fruits, nuts or yoghurt ready. These are much better than crisps or sweets.
• Read labels: If you buy food in a shop, check the nutrition label. Look for foods with less sugar, salt and fat.
• Drink water: Sometimes you feel hungry when you are just thirsty. Drinking water can stop you from snacking on fast food.
• Cook more: Home-cooked meals are usually healthier because you can choose what goes in them.
• Eat mindfully: Take your time to eat. If you eat slowly, you will feel full faster and eat less.
• Set limits: If you still want fast food, set a limit. Maybe allow yourself a treat once a month instead of every week.

Conclusion

Fast food might be convenient, but it comes with serious risks. It can badly affect your physical and mental health. Illnesses arising from long-term consumption of junk foods, like heart diseases or diabetes, can be harder to manage in older age and may need more hospital visits and care. In such cases, medical insurance for parents is very helpful if you have ageing parents. It can support the costs of medical tests, doctor fees and even long-term treatments if needed.

If you are wondering which health insurance to get, fill out the form on this page to get expert advice on medical policies. This way, you will be able to choose an ideal insurance plan that fits your requirements.

FAQs

•  Is it fine to eat fast food sometimes?

A: Yes, eating fast food once in a while is usually fine, as long as most of your meals are healthy.

•  Why is fast food so addictive?

A: Fast food has high sugar, salt, fat and artificial flavours which trigger pleasure signals in your brain. This makes you crave it again and again.

• Can children eat fast food?

A: Children can eat fast food, but not too often. Their growing bodies need healthy foods with vitamins and minerals.

• Is homemade fast food better?

A: Yes. If you make your own burger or pizza at home, you can use some fresh, healthy ingredients and avoid extra sugar, salt and bad fats.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

In case of planned or emergency hospitalisation, you may want to go to a hospital that’s in your vicinity. If the doctor who’s been treating you works at a particular hospital, chances are you would prefer that one over others. Now, it may be possible that your health insurance company's hospital network doesn't cover your preferred hospital. Then, the only option you would you have at hand is to make a reimbursement claim on your health insurance.

You might have too many doubts about a reimbursement claim that range from what is a reimbursement claim to what you can do to ensure a smooth and speedy settlement of your reimbursement claim. Hence, here we are to help you get acquainted with its complete process and further understand its intricacies.

What is a reimbursement claim?

In a reimbursement claim, you pay the hospitalisation expenses from your pocket, and the health insurance company later pays that amount to you provided you submit all the necessary documents. You will have to apply for a reimbursement claim only if you choose to get your treatment done at a hospital which is not a part of your health insurance company’s hospital network or if you miss opting for a cashless claim.

While making a reimbursement claim, you need to be careful about the coverage of your treatment and related expenses under your family health insurance policy. Your health insurance company can turn down your claim if your policy doesn't cover them.

How is a reimbursement claim different than a cashless claim?

A reimbursement claim can take longer to process than a cashless claim. For a reimbursement claim, you need to ensure you collect and submit all the documents and bills related to your hospitalisation. On the other hand, in a cashless claim, the empanelled hospital will do the job of sending your documents and bills to the insurance company, and the claim will be settled with them directly.

In a reimbursement claim, you have to wait till you get your money reimbursed from the insurance company, whereas in a cashless claim, the insurance company will pay it straight to the hospital. You will only have to bear the expenses that are excluded from your policy or are over your sum insured.

Since your insurance company does not have a tie-up with the hospital, your reimbursement claim will be thoroughly investigated. This may further delay your claim settlement. Cashless claims instead tend to get settled faster and in a hassle-free manner.

When do I need to inform you about my reimbursement claim?

In case of planned hospitalisation, you can inform us two days before admission, and in case of emergency hospitalisation, you need to inform us within 24 hours of hospitalisation.

What are the steps involved in a reimbursement claim?

Unlike cashless claim, you have to take the initiative when it comes to making a reimbursement claim. Here are the steps involved in a reimbursement claim process under our health insurance.

1. Step 1: You intimate the claim

You can call our 24x7 toll-free number 1800 2666 or SMS ‘HEALTHCLAIM’ to 575758 (charge – ₹3 per SMS) or email us at ihealthcare@icicilombard.com to inform us about your hospitalisation.

2. Step 2: You get your papers ready

Once you have made the payment at the hospital, arrange all the documents chronologically. Start from the original bills for doctor’s consultation, X-ray and other medical expenses to your discharge summary, medical reports and hospital bill. With us, you can also include the bills of your medical expenses 30 days before hospitalisation and 60 days after.