How to prevent malaria?

Planning a tropical escape or a hike amongst the wilderness? Fantastic idea. But while we all love a good adventure, let's not roll out the red carpet for any uninvited guests like mosquitoes and their notorious companion, malaria. Malaria might be small, but it packs a punch. So, what's our strategy? Here are some laid-back yet effective ways to keep mosquitoes at arm's length and prevent malaria.

Ways to prevent malaria

Opt for EPA-approved Insect repellent

It's akin to setting up a force field against those bothersome mosquitoes. Ensure that its EPA-registered for maximum mosquito-blocking prowess.

Embrace the long-sleeved ensemble

Embody your inner trendsetter with long-sleeved shirts and pants. Not only do you exude effortless coolness, but you're also creating a barrier between yourself and those buzzing nuisances.

Equip your gear with permethrin

Treat your clothes and gear with permethrin – the mosquito's Achilles' heel. They'll steer clear, leaving you to relish your adventure without the itch.

Fortify your sleeping quarters against mosquitoes

Your accommodation is your haven, so make it mosquito-proof. Close windows, utilize bed nets, and perhaps conduct a quick sweep for any uninvited visitors.

Securely nestled under a mosquito net

Picture it as your snug, bug-free cocoon. A mosquito net is a simple yet potent way to ensure a restful night's sleep without the threat of malaria buzzing around.

Now armed with these straightforward tips, you can traverse worry-free. Prevention is the key, and we're here to ensure you emerge victorious. No one wants to cut short their vacation due to an unwelcome health setback, right?

Conclusion

So, there you go – our not-so-secret formula for keeping malaria at bay. With a spritz of insect repellent, a touch of long-sleeved fashion, and a substantial dose of mosquito nets, you're all geared up for a bug-free escapade. Now, venture forth, explore the world, and let malaria know it's not on the guest list. Ensure to have a health insurance policy that covers malaria treatments for added peace of mind. Stay safe, stay healthy, and savor your adventure, mosquito-free!

Everything you must know about health insurance portability

Most policyholders often complain about the services offered to them and at times are dissatisfied with their policies. In order to preserve the interests of policyholders, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) introduced the concept of Health Insurance Portability.

What Is Health Insurance Portability?

In the past, moving your health insurance policy from one insurer to another resulted in the loss of accumulated benefits like waiting period for pre-existing diseases. But now IRDAI has given rights to policyholders to port their health insurance policies without losing the accumulated benefits.

As per the latest guidelines by the IRDAI, the new insurer will allow for the credit gained by the policyholder for pre-existing conditions in terms of waiting period. The portability is not only applicable when you move an existing policy from one insurer to another but also when you move from one plan to another with the same insurer.

What Are The Rights Of A Policyholder?

Under the Health Insurance Portability scheme, as a policyholder, you have the following rights:

• Option to transfer your policy to and from any health insurance or general insurance company
• You can transfer any health insurance policy be it individual or family
• Your new insurer must provide you with the benefits accumulated relating to the waiting period for a pre-existing condition with your previous insurer
• Your new insurer must insure you at least up to the sum insured by the previous insurer
• The porting must be done by both the insurers as per the IRDAI guidelines

What Are The Terms And Conditions Of Portability?

Here are the terms and conditions of the scheme which must be looked into before porting your existing policy:

• You can port your existing policy only when it reaches its renewal, which means that the new insurance term will be with the new insurer
• All other terms and conditions of the new policy except for the waiting period will be at the discretion of your new insurer
• You need to notify your old insurer regarding the shift with the name of insurer in written, at least 45 days prior to your renewal so that the policy gets renewed without a break

Are you in doubt whether your health insurance policy offers the coverage and provides for the hospitalization costs? The real fact is that most of the health insurance companies operating in India are not providing any special benefits to the pregnant lady of her family to bear the high costs of performing the essential pregnancy procedures. Therefore, at the end all of hospitalization charges which are associated with pregnancy have to be borne by the family and this situation is really hard to explain both financially as well as morally too.

Every lady after marriage has to undergo pregnancy either once or twice or may be even thrice during the pregnancy. However, if seen from the perspective of insurance company, pregnancy is a financial liability rather than an asset that has to eventually taken care of, at least financially, by the insurance company. In India, the insurance companies providing medical insurance are not considering pregnancy or any other kind of medical procedure related with pregnancy as the means to cover under the insurance.

Things don’t actually look smart and cool as they seem from the distance. Very few of the medical insurance companies who have chosen to offer pregnancy coverage in the insurance policy, are providing it at high premiums and that too with limitations. You just cannot have a medical insurance policy covering you comprehensively for the purpose of pregnancy.

It is the time that medical insurance companies in India come out of their cocoon and start behaving in a more dynamic manner, rather than thinking about their own petty monetary benefits altogether. It would not be wrong to say and comprehend that insurance sector in India is still in a nascent stage of its performance. You will hardly have a good medical insurance policy which offers complete coverage on the critical illnesses, let alone the question of providing comprehensive pregnancy coverage.

Hospitalization during the time of pregnancy is not a new thing. If there are serious complications in the pregnancy, it may even take more than a week’s stay in the hospital. All of it requires huge amount of money and these expenses may easily burden an individual from average middle class family. If there is a medical insurance policy which will give you complete coverage for the pregnancy, definitely, things will work in the right manner.

Insurance companies are working on the insurance coverage plan which will provide necessary and essential pregnancy coverage, though it may turn out to be a costly affair for the needy families. However, this big transformation is sure to take much of time and resources to work upon. You have to be pretty sure that when buying the medical insurance coverage of your choice, check out in detail on the terms and conditions as only then you will get the hang whether the medical insurance is covering you for the pregnancy and hospitalization charges altogether.

Drumsticks, or Moringa, are a popular vegetable that add a unique flavour to Indian and international dishes such as sambar, curries, soups, and pickles. Besides being a flavourful veggie, drumsticks are particularly nutrient rich. They contain vitamins, minerals, dietary fibre, and phosphorus. Drumsticks contain antioxidants and can help boost general health. In this article, we take a detailed look at some of the health benefits of drumsticks.

What are the different benefits of drumsticks?

Drumstick is a drought-resistant plant native to the tropics of South Asia and India. Drumstick pods and leaves are rich in essential nutrients, especially calcium, iron, zinc, and protein. These nutrient-packed veggies not only assist in diabetes management and infection resistance but also provide a shield against inflammatory issues like arthritis and heart diseases. Listed below are the main benefits of drumsticks:

1.     Regulates blood glucose levels

Drumsticks, packed with essential minerals, vitamins, and fibre, can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes. Isothiocyanates (small molecules) present in them contribute to weight reduction, improved glucose tolerance, and regulated blood sugar levels. Including drumsticks in your diet supports gallbladder function, aiding in blood sugar maintenance. An increased concentration of blood glucose can lead to type 2 diabetes, therefore, increasing the risk of heart-related diseases. Regular drumstick consumption is linked to lower blood glucose levels, attributed to plant compounds like isothiocyanates. Maintaining normal blood glucose is crucial for overall health and diabetes prevention.

2.     Immune booster

Drumsticks contain minerals, fibre, and vitamins, which are particularly beneficial to diabetics. Drumsticks are rich in isothiocyanates that can help in lowering fat deposits and increasing insulin utilization as well as maintaining normal levels of blood sugar. Excessive blood sugar may lead to type 2 diabetes and bring with it a series of heart-related diseases. Dietary evidence suggests that eating drumsticks over a long period is associated with normal blood sugar levels. For all people, this vegetable can be helpful in preventing diabetes by keeping one’s blood sugar levels within the range.

3.     Improves bone health

The seeds and leaves of this drumsticks are packed with essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Incorporating drumsticks into one's diet can yield remarkable enhancements in bone density among older adults. Moreover, the consumption of these delectable veggies effectively aids in the management of fragile bones and arthritis while concurrently fortifying skeletal structures during childhood development. Given their abundant reserves of calcium and iron, pregnant women can also gain significantly from including drumsticks in their daily nutrition regimen.

4.     Promotes gut health

Drumsticks offer an array of essential B vitamins, such as thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and B12. These nutrients are vital for promoting the well-being of the gastrointestinal system. They possess a remarkable capacity to stimulate the production of digestive fluids. This stimulation aids in effectively breaking down carbohydrates, proteins and fats within the body. Additionally, drumsticks contain a significant amount of dietary fibre, promoting regular bowel movements and maintaining optimal gut health.

5.     Reduces inflammation

In the event of infections or injuries, our body initiates an innate response by inducing inflammation. However, extended periods of inflammation may contribute to the development of various health conditions, including cancer. Fortunately, drumsticks offer a remarkable defence mechanism against chronic inflammation owing to their abundant antioxidants. The presence of isothiocyanates in drumsticks further enhances their potency as anti-inflammatory agents, augmenting their protective benefits for your well-being.

6.     Promotes good vision

One of the main benefits of drumsticks is that it helps improve vision by tackling problems such as cataracts and dry eyes. The beneficial nutrients in drumsticks prevent the thickening of capillary membranes and hinder retinal dysfunction, thus enhancing eyesight. Due to their elevated content of vitamin A and antioxidants, drumsticks are effective in promoting overall eye health and prove particularly advantageous for addressing conditions like cataracts. Extensive research highlights the preventive properties of drumsticks against age-related macular degeneration and vision loss.

7. Promotes health in expecting mothers and newborns

The nutritional profile of drumsticks makes them particularly advantageous for expectant mothers due to their abundant supply of dietary fibre and protein. Drumsticks can be added to meals to help manage morning sickness, increase energy levels, and relieve constipation. Folate in drumsticks can help prevent congenital disabilities, thus reducing the risk of conditions like spina bifida in newborns.

You can get rid of junk food and satisfy your taste buds with healthy alternatives rich in proteins and vitamins

Sticking to a healthy diet can be difficult especially with the aromatic and mouth-watering sight of junk food at every corner. Pizzas, burgers, candies and ice-creams never cease to tempt us, but in reality, these unhealthy foods, with no nutritional value can damage our body and mind to an irreparable extent.

However, getting rid of such cravings can be a difficult task. The best way to avoid the intake of junk food is to replace them with healthier alternatives. While completely avoiding junk food can seem difficult, you can satisfy your cravings by having these healthy substitutes of your favourite junk food.

Try Roasted Sweet Potatoes Instead of French Fries

Instead of fried potatoes wedges or ‘French Fries’, try ‘Roasted Sweet Potatoes’ which are excellent anti-oxidants. Just brush them in olive oil or coconut oil to give that crunchy, crispy texture and add a pinch of salt and pepper to satisfy your taste buds.

Use Kale Chips in Place of Potato Chips

A typical bag of potato chips contains much fat and calories, never a great addition to your healthy diet. Instead of these ultra-fatty potato chips, you can use fresh kale and other vegetables to prepare healthier kale or vegetable chips.

Chew Frozen Dry Fruits Instead of Candies

Apart from providing sweetness and little satisfaction, a candy does no good to your body. Eating candies can increase the risk of diabetes and obesity. Try frozen dried fruits like apricot, raisins, dates etc. instead, which can satisfy your cravings for sweetness with natural sugars.

Since childhood, we've heard about carrots being good for our eyes. But this veggie's health benefits extend far beyond vision. The allure of carrots simply doesn't stop in their visual benefits.
Far from a mundane root vegetable, carrots emerge as a nutritional powerhouse. Get ready to rediscover the health benefits of carrots and why this vegetable is a vibrant and essential component of a well-rounded and nourishing diet.

What are the Health Benefits of Carrots?

Let's uncover the incredible health benefits of carrots that make them the rockstars of the vegetable world.

1. Balances your blood sugar

   Let's talk about anti-diabetic properties. Carotenoids, the pigments giving carrots their vibrant orange hue, do more than just look good. They help regulate blood sugar levels and fasting insulin, making them allies in the battle against diabetes. It's like having a natural sugar traffic control system.

2. Boosts healthy vision

   Think of vitamin A in carrots as your eyes’ best friend. It protects against night blindness and age-related macular degeneration, acting like a shield against vision issues. It's like giving your eyes a daily superhero dose.

3. Aids in weight management

   Carrots are not just a tasty crunch but also contain 88% water. This combo makes them a low-calorie, hydrating snack that keeps you feeling full. If you're watching your weight, carrots are snack time’s MVP.

4. Reduces cancer risk

   Carrots are packed with antioxidant power. Beta-carotene and lycopene are antioxidants found in carrots, which act as your body's defence against certain cancers. They're like the superheroes of your immune system, fighting off potential threats.

5. Regulates blood pressure

   Carrots bring potassium to the party, promoting a healthy balance and helping flush excess sodium. Your heart loves it, especially after a salty feast. It's like a refreshing reset button for your blood pressure.

6. Heart-healthy vibes

   Phenolic compounds in carrots contribute to heart health by maintaining regular blood sugar and cholesterol levels. They're like the guardians of your cardiovascular system, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

7. Immune system support

   Carrots deliver a double whammy with vitamins C and A. They strengthen your immune system by building protective barriers in your respiratory, digestive, and urogenital tracts. It's like an immune system fortification project.

8. Brain-boosting goodness

   Lutein, an anti-inflammatory superhero in carrots, protects your eyes and may also enhance brain health. Snacking on carrots is an intelligent choice for your vision and cognitive well-being.

India takes immense pride in its love for tea. However, beyond the more commonly known teas like milk chai, green tea and black tea, there exists a lesser-known but highly beneficial tea that has been quietly enjoyed by many throughout the country for its health-promoting properties: fennel tea. Derived from the sweet anise-flavoured fennel herb, fennel tea possesses a distinctive yet subtly sweet flavour profile and loads of potential health benefits. In this article, we will look into the main benefits of fennel tea that make it well worth including in your daily tea ritual.

What are the Health Benefits of Fennel Tea?

The fennel herb is loaded with nutritional advantages that can enhance your overall health. It is a fantastic addition to a well-rounded lifestyle with benefits like:

1. Improves digestive health

Fennel seeds, a popular spice, are more than just flavour; they also help with gas and bloating. Soaked in hot water, they release essential oils that increase digestive enzyme secretion, aiding digestion. They combat bloating, indigestion, and constipation like digestive superheroes with anethole, fenchone, and estragole. Because fennel has a high fibre content, drinking it helps keep your stomach full and supports your heart.

2. Improves skin appearance

Packed with vitamin C, fennel tea protects against UV-induced free radical damage, reducing the risk of premature ageing and skin cancer. Its mineral content, which includes potassium, zinc, and selenium, helps with dry skin, rashes, and hormone imbalances while promoting healthy oxygen circulation in the skin.

3. Promotes weight loss

Packed with fibre, one of the main benefits of fennel tea is that it aids in controlling appetite and aiding in weight loss. It increases metabolism, is a diuretic, and helps remove those extra pounds. For best effects, try boiling some warm water with powdered roasted fennel seed on an empty stomach; it also helps to avoid overeating.

4. Eases Menstrual Cramps

Fennel tea is a promising remedy for period pain reduction because it can reduce prostaglandin synthesis and increase blood flow, which may help relieve menstrual cramps.

5. Reduces gas and acidity

Fennel seeds are believed to offer antibacterial and digestive qualities that could help ease intestinal discomfort. Fennel seeds are a natural medicine that may help reduce gas and acidity by encouraging smoother bowel motions and preventing the growth of bacteria.

6. Improves bone health

Fennel tea contains a significant quantity of calcium necessary for maintaining healthy bones. Consuming enough calcium lowers the chance of developing osteoarthritis and bone fractures.

Conclusion

Fennel tea is a delightful way to support your health when incorporated into your everyday routine. Consult your healthcare practitioner for more ways you can boost your overall health through diet. Additionally, it would be best to prioritise your overall well-being by purchasing adequate health insurance coverage. This preventative step ensures you have the coverage and access to medical professionals for complete care.

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.

Barley is a go-to grain in American cuisine, loved for its chewy texture and mild nutty flavour that compliments various dishes. Beyond its deliciousness, it packs a punch of nutrients, supporting improved digestion, weight loss, lower cholesterol, and a healthier heart.

Learn about 5 evidence-supported health benefits of barley in your diet.

What are the Health Benefits of Barley?

1. Barley is nutrient-rich, providing various health benefits:

When you eat whole-grain barley, you're getting a good dose of fibre, molybdenum, manganese, and selenium. It's also loaded with copper, vitamin B1, chromium, phosphorus, magnesium, and niacin. Furthermore, barley is rich in lignans, antioxidants that reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. However, like all whole grains, it contains antinutrients affecting digestion and nutrient absorption.

2. Barley reduces hunger, aiding in weight loss:

Barley reduces hunger mainly because it has lots of fibre. There's a type of soluble fibre called beta-glucan that's especially useful. This fibre forms a gel in your stomach, slowing down the digestion of nutrients and making you feel full, which helps control your appetite.

3. Its fibre content enhances digestion:

The fibre in barley is mostly insoluble, unlike soluble fibre that doesn't dissolve in water. It adds bulk to your stool and speeds up intestinal movement, reducing the risk of constipation. Barley's soluble fibre feeds friendly gut bacteria, producing essential short-chain fatty acids crucial for digestion.

4. Barley may prevent gallstones and reduce the need for surgery:

The gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver, can develop solid particles known as gallstones. Barley's insoluble fibre may assist in preventing the formation of these stones and lowering the chances of undergoing gallbladder surgery.

5. Beta-glucans in barley help lower cholesterol:

Barley's beta-glucans lower "bad" LDL cholesterol by binding to bile acids, promoting their removal through faeces. This encourages the liver to use more cholesterol to create new bile acids, reducing circulating cholesterol. Those consuming barley also saw a notable increase in "good" HDL cholesterol and a significant drop in triglyceride levels.

6. It may reduce the risk of heart disease:

Regularly adding barley to your diet may help lower the risk of heart disease, positively impacting heart health and potentially reducing costs for health insurance policy. Whole grains, including barley, are linked to better heart health by reducing "bad" LDL cholesterol and decreasing blood pressure levels through soluble fibre.

Throughout history, people have enjoyed the flavours and calming effects of herbal infusions made from dried fruits, flowers, spices, and plants. These blends offer numerous health benefits, and are popular among those seeking alternative therapies. Herbal teas have been used for centuries as effective remedies for various ailments, and are now essential for daily self-care and overall well-being. As alternative therapies become more popular, herbal teas provide benefits in multiple ways. In this article, we will explore the various benefits of herbal tea that may encourage you to enjoy these delicious concoctions.

Different types of herbal tea and their benefits

1. Chamomile Tea:

With its relaxing qualities, chamomile tea is well-known and frequently used as a treatment to encourage sound sleep. In addition to being calming, chamomile is thought to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and liver-protective effects. Because of its adaptability, it can help with PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) symptoms, treat high blood sugar levels, and boost digestive health.

2. Peppermint Tea:

Peppermint tea offers further advantages in addition to its well-known ability to promote digestive health. Its leaves have antiviral, antibacterial, anticancer, and antioxidant qualities. It is helpful in treating typical digestive discomforts such as nausea, indigestion, and stomach pain, according to studies.

3. Ginger Tea:

Drinking ginger tea is a tasty way to treat nausea since it has a potent combination of antioxidants that fight illness. Research results regularly attest to its effectiveness in reducing nausea during early pregnancy and the recovery period following surgery. In addition to its digestive benefits, ginger may lessen menstruation discomfort, ease indigestion, and prevent stomach ulcers.

4. Hibiscus Tea:

Hibiscus tea has potential health advantages in addition to its unique flavour. Research shows that this tea can reduce oxidative stress, a harmful process occurring in the body that can cause cell and tissue damage.

5. Echinacea Tea:

Echinacea tea is well known for strengthening the immune system and is often used to treat and prevent colds. Initial investigations indicate that it may have the ability to reduce symptoms and minimise the duration of the common cold, but additional study is necessary.

Conclusion

In summary, herbal teas offer a multitude of advantages that surpass their pleasant tastes and soothing properties. Teas, including chamomile, peppermint, ginger, hibiscus, echinacea, and rooibos, provide several health benefits, including improving immune system function and quality of sleep. Take advantage of these herbal tea benefits today and boost your well-being. Additionally, procuring an all-encompassing health insurance policy can alleviate the burden of potential financial burdens during periods of illness.

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.

In the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle, incorporating nutrient-packed foods becomes crucial. Among these, celery stands out as a powerhouse of health benefits. Beyond being a crunchy snack, celery has many advantages that contribute to overall well-being. Let’s delve into the various ways in which this humble vegetable can enhance your health.

What are the Health Benefits of Celery

Celery, known for its crisp texture and distinctive flavour, is a nutritional powerhouse with numerous health benefits. Let’s uncover the benefits of celery that make it a valuable addition to your diet and promote overall well-being.

Improves Sex Life

Celery contains compounds like androstenone and androstenol, which are believed to stimulate arousal in both men and women, making it a natural aphrodisiac.

Improves Sperm Count and Activity

Celery’s high levels of vitamin C and other antioxidants contribute to healthier sperm, potentially enhancing fertility in men.

Reduces Cancer Risk

Coumarins, a group of phytochemicals found in celery, have been linked to cancer prevention. Regular consumption may help lower the risk of certain types of cancers.

Lowers Blood Pressure Level

Active compounds, such as phthalides, help relax the blood vessels, promoting better blood flow and reducing hypertension.

Prevents Inflammation

Celery is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, including polyacetylenes and flavonoids, effectively reducing inflammation in the body.

Promotes Nerve Cells Health and Prevents Memory Loss

Luteolin, a flavonoid present in celery, has neuroprotective properties. It may help maintain the health of nerve cells, potentially reducing the risk of age-related memory loss.

Aids Digestion

The high fibre content in celery promotes a healthy digestive system by preventing constipation and supporting regular bowel movements.

Helps to Reduce Weight

Celery is a low-calorie food with a high water content, making it an excellent choice for those looking to shed pounds. The fibre content also adds a feeling of fullness, reducing overall calorie intake.

As a cooking medium, coconut oil offers several health benefits. Renowned for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, potential contributions to weight loss, and enhanced skin and oral health, coconut oil has garnered praise from many. Some of us have even read about “oil pulling” and wondered whether it’s effective. Here, we will explore six evidence-based health benefits of coconut oil, offering valuable insights for individuals contemplating its incorporation into their daily diet.

What Health Advantages Does Coconut Oil Offer?

Let’s explore the myriad benefits of coconut oil, a versatile and nutrient-rich substance. From promoting coronary heart health to boosting brain functions, coconut oil could be a valuable addition to your way of life.

• Unlocking Fat-Burning Potential: Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut oil is known for its calorie-burning capabilities. This, in turn, may assist in weight loss. However, one must exercise prudence, as more extensive and higher-quality studies are required to establish the correlation between MCTs and weight loss.
• Quick Source of Energy: Coconut oil’s MCTs offer a swift energy boost. Unlike long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), MCTs directly reach the liver, metabolise and provide energy. This quick absorption makes MCTs popular in sports nutrition products for athletes who require a quick energy boost.
• Curbing Hunger: MCTs, found in coconut oil, can decrease hunger pangs by producing ketones. These ketones affect the urge for appetite-related brain chemicals and hormones like ghrelin, potentially aiding weight management.
• Nourishing Skin with Coconut Oil: Beyond its culinary uses, coconut oil is a versatile cosmetic aid that promotes skin health. It effectively moisturises the skin and enhances the skin barrier function. Applying virgin coconut oil can effectively prevent dry skin due to the frequent usage of alcohol-based hand sanitisers and may alleviate symptoms of skin ailments like atopic dermatitis.
• Mitigating Seizures: Ketogenic diets, characterised by following a diet comprising low carbs and high fats, aid drug-resistant epilepsy by decreasing seizure frequency. The theory revolves around limited glucose availability for brain cells, prompting increased ketone production as an alternative energy source. Modified keto diets, featuring MCTs and a slightly higher carb allowance, have shown promise in epilepsy treatment, with research highlighting the conversion of coconut oil’s MCTs into ketones.
• Antimicrobial Effects: Coconut oil’s MCT content, especially lauric acid, contributes to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Comprising 50% of MCTs, lauric acid demonstrates potential effects against diverse disease-causing microorganisms, appearing as a bacteriostatic and bacteriocidal agent and offering a versatile protective shield.

The three disciplines of Yoga are namely Pranayam, Yogasana and Meditation. While the first two aid the body to heal from multiple disorders and strengthen muscles and bones, the last discipline, meditation, trains the mind and prepares it for a higher level of consciousness. Read on to learn a few easy Yoga steps and their benefits.

Watching your breath through Pranayam

Meaning

Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word "Yuj" meaning 'to unite' or 'to integrate'.

Breathing exercises or Pranayam refers to "extension of the prana, or the life force." According to Ayurveda and ancient Hindu texts:

• Prana is the life force which pervades the entire Universe and it is what makes us "living"
• Prana enters our body through the breaths we take
• On passing away, prana leaves the body with the last breath

Pranayam aims to exert voluntary control over breathing and creates an awareness of the breathing process. Let us see a few of these exercises, before we get into the details of its benefits.

• Bhastrika - Sit in a relaxed lotus posture or Sukhasana and take a deep breath. Hold your breath for a few seconds and release it gently. Repeat this for 5 to 10 times. (Always breathe through the nose and not through the mouth.)

• Kapalbhati - Sit in a relaxed lotus posture and take a deep breath. Exhale by pushing the stomach inside. Inhalation should be done with the least effort after that. Concentrate on exhaling by pushing the stomach. Repeat this for around 25 times in the beginning and take it up to 200 times.

• Anulom Vilom - Sit in a relaxed lotus posture. Using the thumb, press the sides of the right nostril to close it and breathe through the left nostril. Now using the ring and middle finger, press the side of the left nostril and exhale through the open right nostril. Next inhale through the right nostril and exhale through the left nostril. Repeat this for 25 times in the beginning and take it up to 200 times.

A list of major factors that lead to cervical cancer

Cancer of the cervix usually occurs during midlife. Half of the women diagnosed with cervical cancer are between 35 and 55 years of age. The early stages may be completely free of symptoms. It typically happens when abnormal cells on the cervix grow out of control. It may take over 10 to 20 years from pre-cancerous changes to develop into cancer.

It is the fourth-most common cause of cancer and the fourth-most common cause of death from cancer in women. Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by a virus called ‘human papilloma virus’(HPV) and women of all ages are at risk of developing it. Here are a few major reasons for cervical cancer:

Human Papilloma Virus

There are over 100 different types of HPVs, and at least 15 of which are classified as high-risk and 12 as low-risk. It is the most common sexually transmitted infection. Type 16 & 18 cause more than 75% of cases globally.

Most of HPV infections, around 90%, resolve on their own within 2 years. A small percentage of the women do not clear the HPV and are considered to have persistent infection. They would be at a greater risk of developing cervical cell abnormalities.

Smoking

HPV-infected women with smoking habits carry three times the risk of getting cancer. They have CIN3 lesions (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3) which aids in the development of HPV.

Excess smoking and long-term smoking increases the risk of getting the CIN3 lesions than lighter smoking. It also prevents the immune system to fight against HPV and the carcinogens move the cancer-growing genetic code more quickly from the virus to cervical cells.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a condition when the heart starts beating rapidly and irregularly. This condition can cause blood clots in the heart, increasing the risk of complications such as stroke, heart attack, and other heart issues.

Treatments for atrial fibrillation include medications, electrocardiography, and dissection, which actively monitor the heart and prevent complications.

What are the Risk Factors of Atrial Fibrillation?

The factors that contribute to an increased risk of AFib include:

• Age:

The older a person is, the more likely they are to develop AFib.

• Unhealthy stimulants:

Caffeine, nicotine, and many other drugs can damage your heart.

• Alcohol abuse:

Excessive alcohol consumption can disrupt electrical signals in your heart, which can lead to AFib.

• Electrolyte imbalance:

A loss of key minerals such as potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium can affect your heart rate, increasing your risk of AFib.

• Family history:

You may be at risk if AFib runs in your family.

• Cardiology:

Underlying heart problems such as coronary artery disease, valve disease, or congenital disabilities increase the risk of AFib. A previous bout of heart disease or surgery is also associated with this condition.

• High blood pressure:

Uncontrolled high blood pressure damages your heart and affects its electrical signals, putting you at risk of AFib.

• Obesity:

Being overweight puts stress on your heart and body and can lead to AFib.

• Medical conditions:

Diabetes, chronic kidney disease, lung problems, and sleep apnea can be associated with the development of AFib.

• Drugs and supplements:

Some prescription drugs, medicines, and herbs can also cause abnormal heart rhythms and lead to AFib

• Thyroid disease:

An overactive thyroid can increase stress on your heart, increasing your risk of AFib.

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a heart irregularity in which the heart’s upper chambers beat violently rather than smoothly. This may lead to the formation of blood clots, which can cause heart complications. Let’s look at different methods of atrial fibrillation prevention.

What is The Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation?

While atrial fibrillation (AFib) can pose significant health risks, active lifestyle choices and informed health decisions play a key role in prevention. Protect your heart with these AFib prevention tips:

• Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels for a healthy heart.
• Avoid smoking
• Choose a low-salt, low-fat diet with plenty of good ingredients.
• Aim for 30 minutes of activity most days.
• Maintain a good sleep schedule of 7-9 hours
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Find positive ways to relieve stress.

Safety measures to take during heavy downpour

It is not always that you walk out of your home and expect the wrath of the rain gods; flooding the streets of your town. Though, when you are stuck in a swamped area, there are numerous fatal and potentially dangerous threats you may come across. Be it manholes, poisonous insects, breeding germs or more; it is recommended that you be prepared with survival techniques. Here are a few things that you must keep in mind for the next time you are stuck.

Climb to a Higher Altitude

The first thing to do when you find the water level rising is to abandon your property, be it your vehicle or your house and reach a safe spot at a higher altitude. Only when rescue arrives should you follow directions and recommended routes.

Never Cross a Flooded Area

Water flow during flood is unpredictable. Even a few-inches-high water level can sweep you off your feet. A car that weighs 680 Kilograms can also start to float in 2-feet-high water level. It is therefore suggested to never cross flooded areas unless help arrives or you have nowhere to go.

Use a Stick to Check for Ground Firmness

Although, it is highly recommended to not cross the flooded areas, if help does not arrive and you have to walk through the swamp, use a stick. This will help you watch out for unstable ground, obstacles and most importantly manholes. While you walk, if you find blockades hindering your route, always cross over them and not under.

Stay Away from Electrical Equipment

There is a high chance of electrical equipment, poles and circuit breakers to trip and cause a fatal short circuit as the water level rises. In such a scenario, keep a safe distance from such equipment that can cause harm and are a potential threat.

However, the availability of numerous options in the market has made it difficult to find the best health insurance for one’s need. Without a detailed and comprehensive knowledge of facts related to medical insurance policies, one may make the wrong choice.

Before buying any medical insurance policy check the different type of plans available. This will ensure you the best deal. Medical insurance policies are available under the following plans:

Group insurance:
Group insurance provides medical insurance to groups like employees of an organization, members of a co-operative society etc.

Individual:
Individual insurance policies are exclusively created for the specialized requirements of individuals. Generally individual insurance plans have higher premium rates.

Floater:
This plan caters to both a group of people and individuals. For e.g. an entire family is well insured under this plan with single premium.

Critical illness insurance:
For illnesses such as heart trouble, cancer, failure of kidney etc, health insurance companies offer a critical illness plan where the coverage amount is paid on diagnosis of the disease and not as a reimbursement of medical expenses. To get the best health insurance policy comparison of existing options is an important task. An online search helps one compare various plans of different medical insurance companies. Once this is done, seeking multiple quotes helps you make a comparison of costs and benefits to arrive at the best health insurance plan for you. Before buying a medical insurance policy, check for the following:

What percentage of medical costs would be reimbursed?
There are chances that some health insurance policies will not compensate for all the medical expenses incurred. So before purchasing it, be sure of the coverage and what percentage of medical costs would be reimbursed by the company.

What is the monthly premium and is there an anticipated rate increase?
Be sure of the monthly premiums and check with your insurance agent about the anticipated rate increase. If the monthly premiums are unaffordable, search for cheaper options.

Will the insurance company compensate for all the medical costs or only for the major expenses?
While buying a health insurance policy one is under the notion that it will cover all the medical costs. But there are chances that the policy has conditions which cover only the major expenses incurred. Along with healthy food and exercise, health insurance is an important part of leading a healthy and secured life. It is essential that you have adequate amount of coverage and a complete understanding of the exclusions of the policy, along with the least premium rates, to truly purchase the best health insurance policy available.

Are you aware of the benefits of health insurance? Do you believe that you will never need health insurance because you are fit and fine? Do you believe that the only benefit of health insurance is reimbursement in the event of hospitalization?

Here are 5 Benefits of Health Insurance

1. Don't Pay for Your Hospitalization

You can avail cashless health insurance (indemnity-based) at networked hospitals of insurance companies. It means that you do not have to pay the medical expenses at these hospitals. The insurance company settles them on your behalf.

This facility is a boon for patients as they do not incur out of their pocket expenses, freeing them up from unnecessary mental burden and enables them to concentrate on recuperation and rehabilitation.

2. Get a Convalescence Benefit

Some health insurance plans offer a daily amount for each day of hospitalization. Do not worry about keeping records of the amount actually spent to claim this daily cash. The daily cash amount does not depend upon the amount actually spent.

You can also opt for Convalescence benefit in your health insurance policy. Such a cover pays you a lump sum amount if hospitalization exceeds a certain number of days.

3. Safeguard Your Finances and Avail Tax Benefits

A comprehensive health insurance policy with an adequate sum assured can help you meet unplanned health care expenses so that you do not have to dig into your savings or reroute our income. One can also avail pre-defined tax benefits by paying health insurance premiums.

4. Cover for Life Threatening Critical Illnesses

The fixed pre-defined benefit type of medical insurance policies provides a fixed lump sum payment upon diagnosis and confirmation of certain critical illnesses like cancer, stroke, paralysis, kidney failure, etc. Irrespective of the actual amount spent by the insured, he or she receives the lump sum amount which can be used to fund rehabilitation, recuperation, lifestyle adjustment, etc.

5. Get Allied Benefits

Health care system in India has evolved with preventive health check-ups and improved diagnostics. Certain progressive insurance companies offer benefits that are generally not associated with health insurance policies. Some such benefits are:

• Consultation with nutritionists
• Free health check-ups
• Tie-ups with health service providers
• Free Consultation with doctors
• Discounts Coupons on healthcare services

Rising healthcare costs can punch a big hole in your pocket. Paying a small health insurance premium is the simplest way to mitigate the financial losses and to achieve peace of mind. Avail health insurance to save yourself from worries of hospitalization. You can use any health insurance policy app in India to buy your desired policy.

Buying health insurance plans can be one of the most confusing decisions for anyone. There are a multitude of options available in the marketplace, but the widely varying premiums and coverage options make it very difficult for us to zero down on a particular policy.

Well, worry no more! Listed below is a detailed checklist that is an absolute must-have for anyone looking to buy health insurance. Make sure you are thinking through each of the points detailed here before making a decision.

Family coverage

While individual policies for each member of the family would be ideal and provide the best coverage, it may not be a financially feasible decision because of the significant premium payout. However, when you go in for family plan, make sure you check the "Sum Insured" before choosing your plan. Any expenses above this amount will not be covered, so it's important to take adequate cover right from the start. Remember, this amount cannot be increased once you've made a claim. You also need to ensure that the amount is sufficient for hospitalisations for more than one family member.

Network hospitals

While it may not seem relevant now, travel is a significant deterrent when someone is hospitalised. Hence, when choosing an insurer, make sure that they have reputable hospitals from your vicinity, within their network. This will also help you receive cashless treatment, a boon when you have so many other things to worry about!

Reputation in the marketplace

While this may seem like an obvious point, it deserves special mention. Look up your insurer's reputation online, and speak to friends and others who have some experience with insurance. Find out about their claim settlement process, the size of their network. Don't go for too-good-to-be-true providers, because when you need them the most, they will prove to be just that.

Pre-existing conditions

Many of us have pre-existing health conditions for which we need coverage. Any mention of a pre-existing condition could impose a waiting period on your insurance plan. Make sure you check the waiting period carefully. While some cap it off at 2 years, others can go up to 4 years! Certain procedures like knee replacement, cataract operations, etc., could also have a waiting period.

Well, whatever the case maybe, not any longer. This handy guide helps you to address your basic doubts about health insurance.

Let's Start

So, what are mediclaim, health insurance and medical insurance? Well, all refer to the same thing - an insurance plan that protects you against medical emergencies, monetarily, of course. These plans cover expenses related to hospitalization, including eligible pre as well as certain post-hospitalization expenses.

Summarizing Quickly The Indian Scenario

Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) regulates the insurance sector in India. Any person seeking to insure himself/herself against medical expenses needs to buy a mediclaim policy by paying the requisite insurance premium on the policy. On incurring hospitalization expenses, he/she can then make a claim to the health insurance company.

Apart from the standard policies that cover expenses right from ambulance charges to operation theatre charges, a number of diverse policies are designed that cater to certain unique requirements of each person. Some of these innovative policies are as follows:

Family Medical Insurance Policy

These are family floater health plans that cover all family members under a single policy instead of individual policies for each member.

Upside: Flexibility of utilizing the sum insured by any member of the policy. E.g. If the sum insured is Rs.3 lakhs for Mr. Sharma and Mrs. Sharma; Mrs. Sharma alone can utilize the entire limit of Rs. 3 lakhs.

Downside: Members prone to illness may exhaust the cover leaving other family members with no cover or an insufficient cover.