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  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Pillibhit

    by icicilombard 002 | Nov 01, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Pillibhit, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Noida

    by icicilombard 002 | Nov 01, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Noida, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Muzaffarnagar

    by icicilombard 002 | Nov 01, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Mughalsarai

    by icicilombard 002 | Nov 01, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Moradabad

    by icicilombard 002 | Nov 01, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Modinagar

    by icicilombard 002 | Nov 01, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Modinagar, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance policies :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Mirzapur

    by icicilombard 002 | Nov 01, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance policies :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • Cholesterol Explained: What You Need to Know

    by mohit bohra | Oct 31, 2023

    Updated on 23 Dec 2025

    Cholesterol is a type of fatty substance (lipid) present in the blood. The body needs it for various biological functions. However, having too much cholesterol can be harmful to health. In India, with the changing food habits and lifestyle, many cholesterol-related health issues are becoming increasingly common. Due to such reasons, it has become essential to learn about this lipid, its role and how it impacts health.

    What are the different types of cholesterol?

    Three different types of cholesterol are present in the body, which are:

    • Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): This is viewed as the bad cholesterol in the body, and it can build up easily in the arteries and lead to blockages.
    • High-density lipoprotein (HDL): This is called the good cholesterol that aids in removing all the bad cholesterol from the body.
    • Triglycerides: This is the most common type of fat and the primary form of energy storage in the body.

    What does cholesterol do?

    Cholesterol is not always harmful to the body. It helps build healthy cells, produce certain hormones and support the synthesis of vitamins like vitamin D. Furthermore, this fatty substance can also help with digestion by producing the bile acids. Problems start to take place when the cholesterol levels become unbalanced, which leads to health issues. 

    Impact of cholesterol on the body

    Having high levels of triglycerides or bad cholesterol can lead to the following issues by blocking the blood flow.

    • High blood pressure levels
    • Atherosclerosis (narrowing of the blood vessels)
    • Low supply of blood to vital organs
    • Increased risk of a stroke or heart attack

    On the other hand, having enough good cholesterol can help you maintain proper blood circulation and also protect the heart.

    Tips to control cholesterol

    Bad cholesterol is primarily found in processed food. High triglycerides in foods made from refined sugar, flour, trans-fat foods, etc., are the main culprit for health issues. Excessive alcohol consumption is also a contributing factor. To maintain healthy cholesterol levels, avoid overindulging in such foods.

    A diet rich in fiber and grains is excellent for removing the bad cholesterol from the body. Apples, oats, almonds, garlic, spinach and beans also help reduce cholesterol levels since they contain soluble fiber. Contrary to popular belief, consumption of nuts does not increase cholesterol. In fact, daily intake of almonds can help improve good cholesterol.

    A healthy and wholesome diet must be complemented with regular exercise to keep cholesterol-related issues at bay. Incorporate lifestyle changes and follow a disciplined routine to avoid health complications.

    Conclusion

    Cholesterol is a crucial compound in the body, but it's important to keep it in balance. Timely medical check-ups and healthy lifestyle habits can prevent all the bad cholesterol-related issues. If you do end up experiencing certain health issues, having a health insurance plan can help you get quality treatment without worrying about the expense. It covers the cost of hospitalisation, tests and treatment.

    If you’re looking for a customised health insurance policy for your family, fill out the form on this page. We will help you find the right one according to your needs and budget.

     


    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.

  • Why You Should Buy a Comprehensive Medical Insurance

    by mohit bohra | Oct 31, 2023

    In the absence of a medical health insurance, you run the risk of depleting your savings or you may have to settle for below par health care facilities which may have far reaching effects on you or your loved ones’ health.

    It is wise to choose a health insurance plan like the complete health insurance plan under which you can opt for individual or floater coverage for your family. With this plan, you can get access to the insurance provider’s network of quality health care providers for cashless claims. Thus your loved ones can enjoy the advantages of a larger sum insured while availing the best possible care at premium health care facilities.

    Such comprehensive insurance policy may not include Sub-limits, refer to policy document for details. A sub-limit is any restriction on the sum insured for any treatment or medical services covered by the policy. This means that you and your family members can make claims for the full sum insured under your selected medical health insurance policy structure. The lifelong renewability feature is another enticing benefit offered by this policy and must be considered carefully when selecting your insurance policy.

    Under this policy, there is no health insurance deductible, which means that you do not have to worry about making any payments for diseases or ailments covered under your policy. You can then concentrate on the well being and comfort of your loved one without the worrying even about a fraction of the hospital bill. co-payment is the fraction of the cost payable by the insured for medical services covered by the plan. Your complete health insurance policy may not have any co-payments which further adds to the overall benefit.

    With a health insurance policy, you not only have the advantage of quality health care but can also enjoy considerable tax benefits. This is because under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, investments made towards the payment of premium for health insurance are eligible for rebate from your taxable income up to a certain limit. Thus, you can savinge up to Rs. 15,000 per year on the premium paid for your insurance policy. Also, if you are paying the premium for your insured parents who are senior citizens, you can claim an additional amount of Rs. 20,000 per year.

    Thus, your health insurance policy is not only full of medical benefits but also enhances net savings in the long run.

  • 5 Tips to Stick to Your Exercise Routine

    by mohit bohra | Oct 31, 2023

    “Do the difficult things while they are easy, and do the great things while they are small. A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” This quote by Lao Tzu, a Chinese philosopher and writer, emphasises the need to initiate with a step, however small it may be. The same applies when you take a small step towards your fitness – whether you choose to climb the stairs, decide to walk those short distances, or eat healthy.

    However, amidst hectic schedules and meeting deadlines, you may find it difficult to cope. According to an online study conducted by Bodybuilding.com, 73% of the people who had fitness goals as a part of their new year resolution, gave up before meeting their goals. The beginning of anything is always the toughest; the key is in not giving up.

    Here are five useful tips that will help you stick to your exercise routines and healthy diet against all odds:

      • Do it for Yourself

    Do not hit the gym because others think you should; do it for yourself. There is nothing as transient as external motivation. Self-motivation will keep you going for years on end. Ask yourself the following questions, ‘Why do I need to be fit?’, ‘What will my body achieve by staying healthy?’ ‘How do I stay fit?’

    Remember the need for you to stay healthy and create custom routines that suit you, the rest will follow.

      • Set Reasonable Goals

    Being healthy is not just about running or hitting the gym for hours, it is about taking baby steps. Know your limitations to avoid undue exertion that may wear you out or inflict muscle injury. Consult a qualified trainer if you decide to change your routine.

      • Mix and Balance

    You will be nothing but disappointed and discouraged, if you believe that only working out would strengthen your immune system. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, published a study, which explicitly stated that, a combination of healthy eating and exercise is the preferred roadmap to a healthy heart. Striking a perfect balance between these two is a prerequisite for good health. What’s more, mixing various exercise forms such as cardio, aerobics, yoga with interesting food that keeps you energetic all day long will definitely keep it interesting for you.

      • Find a Friend

    Your friends are your extended family. Sometimes, what you can't, your friend's pep talk can. Find a friend whose fitness goals coincide with yours. Break the monotony of your workout sessions by getting them along; make the burn session a fun session with them. Plan activities such as cycling, hiking or walking with your significant other or children over the weekends to spread the awareness in your family.

      • Leverage Technology

    Technology is a boon when it comes to the fitness domain. There are various mobile applications that you can download to keep a track of your workout sessions. You can measure your Body Mass Index, compare the results with your goals, and then work towards filling the gap.

    Staying healthy is physically and mentally rewarding. With ICICI Lombard, it is fiscally rewarding as well! Our health insurance plans include a Wellness program that rewards you for your healthy habits. Your healthy behaviour will entitle you to our wellness points that can be redeemed later as per our redemption terms and conditions. #Dothedifficult, and get the beneficial!

  • Lifestyle Changes to Keep Kidney Stones Away

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 31, 2023

    Ways to avoid deposits in the kidney and prevent excruciating pain

    Kidney stones are solid deposits which originate in the kidney. The initial microscopic deposits grow into large stones when certain chemicals become concentrated enough in the urine to form crystals. They result in excruciating pain, coming in waves until the tiny stone passes through the urinary plumbing and out of the body. In some cases, kidney stones become lodged in the ureter and block the flow of urine.

    Most stones are formed when calcium combines with either of two substances: oxalate or phosphorous. Stones can also form from uric acid, which forms as the body metabolises protein. Also, it is not a one-time problem: in about half of people suffering with kidney stones, another appears within seven years if there are no preventive measures taken.

    Studies show that kidney stones appear to be more common in people with Asian and Caucasian backgrounds. Preventing kidney stones means preventing the conditions which support and instigate their formation.

    Lifestyle changes

    The deposits in the kidney form when urine contains more crystal-forming substances than the fluid in the urine can dilute. It may lack substances that prevent crystals from sticking together, creating an ideal environment for stone formation.

    • Drink Your Way

    Living in a hot and dry climate necessitates drinking more water and produces more urine, about 2.5 litres a day. Dehydration often causes low urine volume and less fluid to grab calcium and other compounds in the urinary system. Unless the urine is light and clear, keep drinking enough water.

    • Avoid Sugar

    Diets high in sugar can increase urinary calcium excretion and increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Soft drinks and sweets are the biggest dietary causes as they often contain high levels of fructose and phosphoric acid. Natural sweeteners, like stevia, have the unique ability to regulate blood sugar levels.

    • Avoid Oxalate-rich Foods

    If you tend to form calcium oxalate stones, it is recommended restricting foods rich in oxalates. These include rhubarb, beets, okra, spinach, Swiss chard, sweet potatoes, nuts, tea, chocolate, and soy products.

    • Add Rice Bran to Your Diet

    It has been observed that high-fibre diets reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. In fact, a study found that when patients took 10 grams of rice bran twice daily, their recurrence rate for kidney stones was reduced by almost 80 percent.

    • Avoid High Sodium Intake

    Too much of sodium intake can create mineral imbalances in the body. If you are on a moderate-high carbohydrate diet, the body will naturally retain sodium and can cause more problems with mineral balance. Low-carbohydrate, high-fat diets excrete sodium and therefore need more good salts.

    Stay away from processed salts and processed sodium-rich foods, and consume natural foods. Stick to a low-moderate carbohydrate, high-good fat diet and consume unprocessed sea salts and pink salts.

    • Create A Calcium-rich Diet

    Diets low in calcium can increase kidney stone formation in some people. A daily glass of orange juice can help prevent the recurrence of kidney stones better than other citrus fruit juices such as lemonade.

    Medically managing recurrent kidney stones requires dietary and lifestyle changes as well as treatment such as the addition of potassium citrate, which lowers the rate of new stone formation in patients with kidney stones.

    Treatment of kidney stones is a costly affair these days. You need to undergo several blood and urine tests followed by CT scans, specialist visits, lab analysis of kidney stone and antibiotics prescription. The entire process can be financially draining. A health insurance is a smart way to cover yourself against these expenses. With free health check-ups and cashless hospitalisation facilities, you can always rest assured in times of hardships.

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  • 56% of the Indian Population Still Not Covered

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Oct 31, 2023

    A vast section of the Indian population continues to be outside the purview of health insurance , found a report titled ‘Indian Life and Health Insurance Sectors’ from consulting firm Milliman.

    The report found only 44% of the total population in the country to have a health insurance policy as of 2017. It essentially means 56% of the country’s 1.3 billion people don’t have a health cover.

    The report also found the private sector to be spending a significant chunk of the healthcare expenditure in India at 70%, with the government spending only 30%. Contrary to this, the federal and state government in the US contribute as much as 45%.

    Though health insurance penetration has gone up over the last few years, the market is still significantly untapped. While 76% of the population didn’t have any health cover in 2013-14, the number dropped to 56% during 2016-17. The Milliman report found the number of uncovered people by subtracting the covered people from the population estimate as given in the National Health Profile.

    The report also found standalone health insurers gaining a significant presence in the retail segment between 2013-17. Experts attribute this rise to the ability of standalone health insurers to innovate their best health insurance products and aligning them with the needs of customers.

    The report also says that the ambitious Aayushman Bharat Scheme launched by the Government this year, that plans to cover over 10 crore poor and vulnerable families offering coverage up to ₹5 lakh per family, will upgrade over 1.5 lakh sub-centres to wellness centres by 2022. It’s anticipated that those not eligible for coverage under Aayushman Bharat will opt for private insurance.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Mau

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 31, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Mau, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Maharajganj

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 31, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Lucknow

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 31, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Lalitpur

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 31, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Lalitpur, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Lakhimpur, Uttar Pradesh

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 31, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Lakhimpur, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Khurja

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 31, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Khurja, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Kheri

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 31, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Kheri, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Kanpur

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 31, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

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