Updated on 9 Dec 2025

Aloe vera, often called the plant of immortality in ancient times, has long been valued in Indian households for its healing and skincare benefits. Its soothing gel is used widely for digestion, hair care and skincare. These days, you will find aloe vera available in the form of capsules, creams, juices and gels.

Let’s find out more about its nutritional value, advantages and safe ways to use it in day-to-day life. 

What is aloe vera?

Aloe vera is a succulent plant with thick green leaves containing a clear gel rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Traditionally used to soothe burns, wounds, and skin conditions, it is now widely found in herbal supplements, health drinks, and beauty products.

What are the benefits of aloe vera?

Here are some key advantages of aloe vera:

1. Healthy skin

The benefits of aloe vera begin with the plant's notable impact on skin health. Aloe vera’s succulent leaves contain a gel rich in antioxidants, enzymes, and vitamins A and C. This gel is beneficial in nourishing and rejuvenating one’s skin. Regular application of aloe vera gel may aid in the relief of eczema, acne, and sunburn, among other skin conditions.

Aloe vera's intensely moisturising properties make it a potent hydration agent that leaves the skin feeling refreshed and hydrated. Its anti-inflammatory qualities also help reduce redness and soothe sensitive skin. The plant's ability to boost the production of collagen promotes suppleness, delaying the signs of ageing and leaving behind a youthful, bright appearance.

2. Digestive aid

The benefits of aloe vera for digestive health are widely known. The inner gel of the plant contains several compounds, including polysaccharides, which have a relaxing effect on the digestive system. Aloe vera can provide comfort to those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and acid reflux when consumed regularly.

Aloe vera's ability to alleviate gastrointestinal tract inflammation can help ease the discomfort associated with digestive issues. Regular usage of aloe vera juice or pills can support a healthy digestive tract and improve nutritional absorption.

3. Boosts the immune system

Aloe vera's nutrient-dense composition, which includes vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, is crucial for boosting immunity. Regular consumption of aloe vera may improve overall health, reduce susceptibility to disease, and boost the immune system.

One of the bioactive compounds believed to be responsible for the plant's immunomodulatory properties is acemannan. These compounds have been shown to enhance immune cell function, which strengthens the body's defences against illnesses.

4. Promotes hair health

Aloe vera is well-known for its skin-benefiting properties, but its advantages for hair health should not be overlooked. The plant's moisturising qualities also benefit the scalp, providing relief from itching and dandruff. Aloe vera gel can be used regularly to nourish hair follicles and produce healthier, more vivid locks. It can also be used for haircare products.

Proteolytic enzymes found in aloe vera's composition aid in the repair of damaged scalp cells, fostering hair growth and averting hair loss. Aloe vera is a natural solution for those who want to improve the health and appearance of their hair, whether it is used as a leave-in conditioner or mixed into homemade hair masks.

5. Anti-inflammatory properties

Inflammation is a prevalent factor in many medical conditions, ranging from arthritis to heart disease. Aloe vera has potent anti-inflammatory properties, making it a helpful remedy for several ailments as well as a preventative measure.

Aloe vera gel can help reduce pain and complement medical treatments when applied regularly to irritable joints and other affected regions.

6. Oral health

Aloe vera's natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an important component of a thorough oral hygiene routine. According to several studies, the plant can combat the microbes that cause gum disease and cavities. Aloe vera mouthwashes or gels can help you attain better gum health, fewer plaque formation, and fresher breath.

Given aloe vera’s relaxing properties, individuals with oral illnesses such as gingivitis may find relief from these symptoms. It can facilitate better oral hygiene by lessening gum inflammation and hastening healing.

7. Supports detoxification

Aloe vera helps the body flush toxins and supports liver function. Adding aloe vera juice to the diet may promote metabolic balance and internal cleansing.

Aloe vera nutrition

Aloe vera contains a high level of nutrients, which makes it extremely advantageous for overall health.

• Antioxidants: This helps in lowering cell damage and also slows down ageing.
• Vitamins: The vitamins B12, A, E and C support skin health and immunity.
• Amino acids: These are a protein’s building blocks that aid in muscle repair.
• Minerals: Potassium, calcium, zinc, and magnesium can make the bones stronger and increase the energy levels in the body.

Together, these nutrients make aloe vera a powerful supplement when consumed in moderation.

How much aloe vera should you use?

Although aloe vera is natural, using it too much can be harmful to health. Here is how to use it safely:

• For digestion: You should drink 30-50 ml of aloe vera juice each day. You should always pick products from reliable brands to avoid side effects.
• For hair: Use the aloe vera gel on the scalp once or twice every week.
• For skin: Apply the aloe vera gel directly to the skin once or twice each week.

Consult a physician before use if you have health conditions.

Conclusion

Aloe vera is a gift from nature, which supports overall wellness, health and beauty. From good digestion to glowing skin, it provides countless advantages.

While it offers many health benefits, safeguarding your health with a medical insurance plan is equally important to stay prepared for unexpected expenses. Consider exploring critical illness insurance options for added protection.

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.

How To Manage High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, generally impacts millions globally. It is a blood pressure higher than 130/80 mm Hg. It happens when the force of blood against the arteries' walls is invariably too high, straining the blood and heart vessels. hypertension can lead to serious health issues like heart disease, stroke, and renal problems if it is not managed. Nevertheless, sound management methods will likely regulate and lower it, enhancing general fitness and well-being. It's important to consider how managing your blood pressure effectively can impact your health insurance coverage, as certain lifestyle improvements may help reduce medical expenses in the long term.

Keep reading about the valuable methods to control hypertension.

Tips To Manage High Blood Pressure

Here are some tips to manage high blood pressure:

• Healthy diet adoption: Incorporate fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, whole cereals, and lean proteins. Restrict your salt, processed foodstuffs, and sugary beverage intake.
• Maintaining a healthy body weight: Losing extra weight can help lower blood pressure. Maintain a body mass index (BMI) that is within the beneficial range.
• Employ routine physical exercise in your daily lifestyle: Routine workouts, like speedy walks, swimming, or cycling, assist in lowering blood pressure. Strive for a minimum of 150 minutes of mild-intensity workouts every week.
• Restrict alcohol intake: Consuming extreme quantities of liquor can increase hypertension. Restrict your liquor intake to reasonable levels (up to a single drink daily for females and up to two drinks daily for males).
• Discontinue smoking: Smoking can increase hypertension and harm blood vessels. Quitting smoking can enhance your general cardiovascular fitness.
• Handle anxiety: Regular anxiety can relate to hypertension. Adopt healthy lifestyle changes for hypertension to handle anxiety, like rehearsing leisure techniques, employing recreational activities, or pursuing help from loved ones.
• Observe your blood pressure daily: Track your blood pressure readings at home or via routine check-ups with your healthcare specialists. This will assist you in understanding your improvement, help you make the required adjustments to your lifestyle, and manage high blood pressure.
• Follow the experts' advice for everyday usage of specific medicines: If your doctor has specified medicine to control your hypertension, take it as required. Never miss these doses or quit taking medicine without consulting your doctor.

Conclusion

Controlling hypertension needs a technique that incorporates lifestyle modifications and the required medications. Talking to your healthcare specialist for personalised guidance is essential for making these lifestyle changes for hypertension.

The risk factors of hypertension include age, family history, obesity, intake of too much salt, low potassium levels, etc. In most adults, there is no specific reason for getting hypertension but in some cases it may be caused due to adrenal gland tumours, kidney disease, congenital heart defects, thyroid problems, etc.

Types Of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is the sensation that arises when we experience concern, tension, or fear, especially regarding events on the horizon or potential future occurrences. When we sense a threat, anxiety is a natural human response that we can feel in our thoughts, emotions, and physical experiences. It's standard for people to experience anxiety occasionally, particularly when navigating through stressful situations or adapting to significant life changes with the potential for a substantial impact. The expression of anxiety varies widely, and meeting specific criteria in your experiences could lead a doctor to diagnose you with a particular anxiety disorder. In this article, we outline the types of anxiety disorders.

Types Of Anxiety Disorders

Listed below are the different types of anxiety disorders:

❖Generalized Anxiety Disorders:

It's about having uncontrollable worries in daily life. With many possible anxiety symptoms, a Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) diagnosis can be broad, making your GAD experiences unique compared to others.

❖Social Anxiety Disorder:

Social anxiety occurs when you feel scared or anxious in social situations, like parties, work, or just talking to people daily. People often call this social phobia.

❖Panic Disorder

It indicates experiencing regular or frequent panic attacks without a clear trigger. When dealing with panic disorder, the constant fear of having another panic attack can be so intense that the fear becomes a trigger for more episodes.

❖Phobias:

A phobia is an extreme fear or anxiety provoked by a specific situation, such as going outdoors or a particular object, like spiders.

❖PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder):

If you face anxiety issues after a traumatic experience, a doctor might say you have PTSD. It could mean having flashbacks or nightmares that make you feel like you're experiencing the fear and anxiety from that tough time.

❖OCD (Obsessive compulsive disorder):

This form of anxiety is marked by repetitive thoughts, behaviors, or urges that cannot be dismissed.

❖Health Anxiety:

If you find yourself immersed in obsessions and compulsions tied to illness, like extensively researching symptoms or repeatedly checking for their presence, you may face extreme anxiety.

❖Body Dysmorphic Disorder:

It signifies your obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors related to your physical appearance.

❖Perinatal OCD:

Anxiety problems can arise during pregnancy or the first year after giving birth.

6 Risks Associated With Extreme Dieting

The temptation to follow syringe diets for weight loss gets accentuated by the abundance of #progresspics flooding social media these days. However, it is essential to consider various factors before delving into the regulations and limitations of extreme dieting.

Diet for weight loss, including keto and Paleo, can be alluring because they provide a clear list of foods to eat and avoid, making it appear simple to drop those extra pounds you have been trying to lose. Nonetheless, it is crucial to understand that extreme diets may be associated with more than just weight loss; they could have serious health consequences.

Hence, it is vital to be aware of the potential risks associated with extreme diets for weight loss when considering how to diet safely.

Risks You May Face With Extreme Dieting

• Gastrointestinal problems:

Experiencing constipation, gas, and stomach pain is common when you embark on a high-fibre diet. Fortunately, these side effects are usually temporary, as your body gets used to processing more fibre through your digestive system within days or weeks. Remember to stay hydrated and gradually introduce fibre into your diet.

• Reduced energy levels in weight loss diets:

A calorie-restricted diet may cause exhaustion and a reduced capacity to enjoy your favourite activities. If you cannot find the energy to exercise, it may be beneficial to boost your calorie intake to ensure your body is well taken care of. Insufficient calories could cause your metabolism to slow down, which is certainly not desirable!

• Heighten the risk of chronic diseases:

A diet low in fat but high in processed, sugary foods can cause severe nutrient deficiencies and increase the risk of chronic diseases. This is because your intake of vitamins, minerals, protein, and fibre not only gets reduced but also because our bodies require fat to absorb essential nutrients such as vitamins A, D, E, and K.

• Weight recovery:

Much like almost everything in life, if you excessively limit something in your diet, your desire for it will likely increase manifold. Although low-carb and low-fat diets are effective for weight loss, we recommend embracing a lifestyle approach instead of a "quick fix" diet plan to prevent cravings, binge eating, and the potential for weight regain.

The Bottom Line

These weight loss diets may have proven successful for some individuals, but we caution against trying them without guidance. If you value a structured diet plan, we enthusiastically recommend the Mediterranean Diet for weight loss and overall health improvement. The Mediterranean Diet prioritises plant-based foods, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats with occasional treats in moderation. Besides being a safer dieting approach, the Mediterranean Diet also supports weight maintenance, unlike the rapid regain often linked to crash diets. By providing coverage for regular check-ups and dietary counseling, health insurance can ensure you stay on track with your weight loss and health goals.

Weight Loss Myths to Stop Believing

There are many myths and misconceptions about how to lose weight, which may hinder one's efforts to lead a better lifestyle. In this article, we address widespread misconceptions about weight reduction and offer readers evidence-based guidance to help them make wise decisions. We will uncover the myths that frequently result in disappointment and frustration, from crash diets to miracle supplements. By distinguishing fact from myth, we hope to provide people with the knowledge they need to lose weight in a healthy, sustainable way.

Myths About Weight Loss You Should Not Fall For

Here are some weight loss myths you should not believe-

1. For weight loss, eat a lot of fruit and vegetables

• No food is calorie-free, even though people frequently refer to fruits and vegetables as "free" foods due to their low-calorie content.
• To reduce your calorie intake, it is essential to keep track of your fruit and vegetable intake. Know precisely what you consume to reduce calories and lose weight.

2. Weight loss can be increased using superfoods or supplements

• Popular foods like kale, green tea, blueberries, bulletproof coffee, and turmeric will not miraculously hasten weight loss.
• It involves your diet as a whole and how it works between various meals. You can still gain weight even if you eat foods high in calories and bad for you, like kale.

3. The ideal diet is low in carbohydrates

• While initial weight loss may be more rapid on low-carb diets, long-term studies have found no significant benefit.
• Moderating carb intake and boosting protein intake can help.
• Eat your carbs, but choose whole grains that are high in fibre and healthy.

4. Quality over quantity will make sure you lose weight

• While picking a healthy food diet for weight loss is essential, it is crucial to keep in mind that losing weight requires creating a calorie deficit—burning more calories than you take in.
• Even with nutrient-rich alternatives, check your portion amounts.

5. Healthy food is pricey

• Healthy eating is expensive
• You can eat healthily on a budget by choosing affordable options like pulses, frozen vegetables, and whole grains.
• Be creative with cost-effective, nutritious meals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is crucial to realise that some of the myths about how to lose weight are untrue. No miracle food or drug can help you lose weight quickly. Even if you are on a tight budget, it is essential to concentrate on maintaining a balanced diet, paying attention to how much you consume, and choosing wisely. Healthy habits, not techniques or shortcuts, are what help people lose weight. Health insurance can provide access to dietary counselling, helping you create a sustainable weight loss plan tailored to your needs.

10 Protein-Rich Foods for Vegans and Vegetarians  

Many people today choose vegan and vegetarian diets because they believe they have a favourable impact on their health and the environment. However, for people who follow these plant-based diets, getting enough protein can be a regular challenge. Thus, this issue is discussed in the following section by listing the top ten protein sources for vegetarians’ meals that are strong in protein. Whether you are a vegan or want to eat more plant-based protein, these tasty options will give you the protein you need to stay healthy.

Importance of Including Protein in Diet

About 17% of our body weight is made up of protein, which is an essential component of our nutrition. It is the main component of our skin, muscles, eyes, hair, nails, and organs (such as the brain and heart). Furthermore, protein is necessary for the immune system to produce antibodies, which help fight off infections.

Additionally, essential for controlling fat, blood sugar, and energy production is protein. There are 22 natural amino acids, also referred to as the building blocks of protein, which are found in diets high in protein. Vegan protein sources also give us essential minerals and vitamins, such as zinc and B vitamins. Thus, regardless of your dietary preference, it is essential to bear in mind that protein plays a crucial role in maintaining a robust and efficient body.

Vegan And Vegetarian Protein Sources

Following are some of the top protein sources for vegetarians’ diets-

• Quinoa:  A proper seed that offers complete proteins and a nutritional substitute for rice and couscous, quinoa has 4g of protein per 100g.

• Pulses (Beans, Peas, Lentils): Edible seeds, like lentils and chickpeas, are low-fat protein sources, providing 7-10g per 100g.
• Tofu: Derived from soy, tofu boasts 8g of protein per 100g, making it suitable for various cooking methods and creamy soups.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, hemp seeds, and others offer protein and energy, with hemp seeds containing 5g per heaped tablespoon.
• Chia Seeds: With nearly 2g of protein per tablespoon, chia seeds are versatile additions to breakfasts, salads, and desserts.
• Buckwheat: This gluten-free seed has around 5g of protein per 100g and is available in various forms like flakes, groats, and pasta.
• Oats: Besides being a complex carbohydrate, oats offer 10g of protein per 100g, ensuring slow energy release.
• Brown and Wild Rice: Although primarily carbohydrates, these grains still contain about 4g of protein per 100g and are rich in fibre.
• Other Grains (Spelt, Teff, Amaranth, Sorghum): Lesser-known grains provide 4-8g of protein per 100g, adding variety to your diet.
• Vegetables: Many veggies, like broccoli, spinach, kale, peas, and Brussels sprouts, provide protein, boosting your diet with vital nutrients.

Conclusion

To sum it up, plant-based diets can be rich in protein with options like quinoa, pulses, tofu, nuts, seeds, chia seeds, buckwheat, oats, and various vegetables. These protein sources for vegetarians choices not only provide essential protein but also deliver a wealth of nutrients. Embracing these diverse sources of plant-based protein enables individuals to maintain a balanced and healthy diet while adhering to vegan or vegetarian lifestyles. With the right health insurance plan, you can access dietary counseling to ensure your plant-based diet supports your overall health and fitness goals."

Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the ABCD-1 gene on the X chromosome. It impacts the myelin sheath, a protective layer around nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, damaging the nervous system. 

What are the Symptoms of Adrenoleukodystrophy?

All patients of ALD are asymptomatic for the first few years of life. Males may begin to exhibit some symptoms during childhood and adolescence. By the age of 50, almost all ALD-affected individuals develop at least one of the symptoms of adrenoleukodystrophy. Females may also exhibit weakness and bowel incontinence in adulthood.

The symptoms of childhood cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy (cCALD) include:

• Behavioural problems
• Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Poor handwriting skills
• Difficulty in reading and understanding speech
• Problems in comprehending written text
• Clumsiness
• Poor spatial orientation
• Aggressive behaviour
• Double vision

Adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN) is the most common type of ALD that affects men and women by the time they reach their 40s. The symptoms of AMN include:

• Tingling in the feet
• Clumsy walking style
• Tightness in muscles
• Impaired balance
• Loss of strength
• Difficulty sensing vibrations
• Bowel and bladder dysfunction
• Sexual troubles
• Poor performance of adrenocortical hormone

Addison's disease, or adrenal insufficiency, is the next most common type of ALD. ALD symptoms include:

• Weakness and fatigue
• Nausea
• Low blood pressure
• Low blood sugar
• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Hyperpigmentation of the skin 

About two-thirds of men with ALD experience cerebral ALD (CALD). This condition is rare in women. The symptoms of CALD include:

• Problems with vision
• Poor attention
• Behavioural problems
• Poor coordination

Conclusion

If the symptoms of adrenoleukodystrophy are left untreated, they may induce a person into a vegetative state or even death. Early diagnosis of mutations in the ABCD-1 gene may help treat ALD effectively. ALD may be a rare genetic disorder, but you never know whether you are also affected until the symptoms begin showing and making life miserable. Hence, it is always better to be safe; nothing beats health insurance to help make life easy. 

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

Related Articles:

• Causes of Adrenoleukodystrophy: ALD Causes
• Diagnosis of Adrenoleukodystrophy: ALD Diagnosis
• Exploring the Causes of Thalassemia: Genetic Mutations and Inherited Factors
• Insurance Claims For Genetic Disorders Can’t Be Denied
• Mental and Genetic Disorders Can’t Be Excluded from Health Insurance Coverage: IRDAI

When a baby is delivered through a surgical procedure, this is called caesarean delivery or C-section delivery. In this delivery, an incision is made in the abdomen and uterus to take out the baby. C-section delivery is not possible, and the life of the baby or mother is at risk. As C-section delivery is a surgical process, mothers who have undergone this process of delivery need to limit their activities, and recovery is difficult in comparison to vaginal delivery.

Can You Work Out After a C-Section?

After pregnancy, the weight of the mother usually increases drastically. It is important to strengthen the core and pelvic muscles to take control of the body. However, after a C-section delivery, it is difficult to return to a pre-pregnancy exercise regimen.

A healthcare provider may give permission to exercise after a C-section anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the health condition of the mother.

Exercises to Help You Get Started with Working Out

The following five exercises can be tried for strengthening core and pelvic floor muscles:

• Bridge pose: this exercise strengthens tummy muscles, glutes, and the lower back and is best to build up the core after C-section delivery.
• Modified cobra pose: Yoga after a C-section can be very helpful for maintaining body and mind balance. This yoga pose helps strengthen the pelvis, lower abdomen, and back.
• Kegels: Kegel exercises are best for strengthening pelvic floor muscles, which become loose after pregnancy. These exercises strengthen muscles that support the bowel, uterus, and bladder.
• Forward bends: Forward bends can be helpful in strengthening the entire core, which includes abdominal as well as back muscles.
• Leg slides: pregnancy puts a lot of pressure on the legs, and problems like varicose veins can arise. It is important to strengthen the leg muscles using exercises like leg slides.

Conclusion

After pregnancy, exercise can be helpful in shedding pregnancy weight and strengthening the core and pelvic muscles. However, recovery after C-section delivery is sluggish. Therefore, a green signal from the doctor is required before starting any exercise. Exercises like bridge pose, modified cobra pose, Kegels, forward bends, and leg slides can be done to get back into shape and regain strength. By covering routine follow-ups and physical assessments, health insurance ensures that mothers can safely progress with exercise while monitoring their health.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

Also Read

• 8 Brain Exercises to Improve Your Mental Health in 2023
• Boost Your Agility: Top Exercises for Enhanced Coordination and Quickness
• Effective Exercises to Relieve Ankle Pain
• Unlock Lower Body Strength: Top Exercises for Toning Legs, Hips, and Glutes
• Sculpting Your Sides: Top Exercises for Stronger Obliques

Mental health, or mental well-being, includes psychological, emotional, and social well-being. It affects our thinking, feelings, and stress-coping abilities. Mental health is not the mere absence of mental illness; it defines overall health and quality of life. A person who has a mental illness should focus on self-care, which plays a vital role in improving mental health and reducing recovery time.

Importance of Mental Wellbeing

In our modern, fast-paced world, which is full of stressors and various types of challenges, maintaining good mental health is very important. Mental health helps in coping with life stresses, having healthy relationships, improving productivity, enhancing self-image, and making meaningful contributions to the community. Taking care of mental health does not just improve our daily functioning; it also plays a role in the prevention of some diseases that arise due to stress; for example, high blood pressure and heart disease have a direct link with increasing stress. However, significant stigma is attached to anything related to mental health; therefore, it is important to create mental health awareness to overcome the barriers that stop us from addressing mental health in a meaningful way.

Tips to Take Care of Your Mental Health

Self-care plays a huge role in maintaining good mental health. Here are some tips that can help get started with self-care and rebalancing:

• By respecting yourself, it is very important to understand self-value and avoid self-criticism. Taking out time to do favourite things, like playing games or listening to music, can broaden the horizons of a person.
• Do regular exercise to take care of your body, as good physical health can improve mental health.
• People with strong social relationships are mentally stronger and healthier. Therefore, meeting friends and family and joining social activities can also improve mental health.
• By getting enough sleep
• By practicing meditation and gratitude
• Positive thinking
• By setting goals and priorities
• By avoiding smoking, alcohol, and drugs
• By seeking medical help when required

Conclusion

Good mental health helps in coping with the challenges of life. It also helps in contributing to our community, building good relationships, and increasing productivity. To take care of mental health, embracing self-care is of paramount importance. Seeking professional help when needed can be an important step towards nurturing mental health and enjoying a fuller and balanced life. Many health insurance plans offer coverage for preventive mental health programs, promoting overall well-being and reducing the risk of severe mental health issues.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

Also Read

• 8 Brain Exercises to Improve Your Mental Health in 2023
• 9 Ways to Maintain Mental & Emotional Health This Winter
• Easy Ways to Start Prioritizing Your Mental Health
• Mental and Genetic Disorders Can’t Be Excluded from Health Insurance Coverage: IRDAI
• What are the Types of Mental Health Disorders?

How To Support Someone With Depression

Feeling low or depressed now and then is normal. Yet, if such feelings endure for long, say two weeks or more, and begin to influence your daily routine, they could be signs of depression.

The onset of depression can be gradual, and individuals experiencing the condition may not be fully aware or willing to acknowledge that their feelings and actions are different from their usual self. It is common for a partner, family member, or caregiver to be the first to realise that someone needs help. They could advise their friend or relative to visit a GP or seek support from a reliable source.

Signs of Depression to Watch Out For

The symptoms of depression are multifaceted and can vary widely among individuals. If you are going through depression, you could feel sad, hopeless, and lack interest in activities that once brought joy. These symptoms can persist for an extended period, spanning weeks or months, and can significantly disrupt your work, social life, and family interactions.

The indications of depression are diverse and varied:

• Loss of interest in enjoyable activities
• Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
• Changes in speech and movement speed (slower or more restless)
• Fatigue and low-energy levels
• Altered appetite (overeating or loss of appetite)
• Sleep disturbances (excessive sleep or insomnia)
• Difficulty concentrating on daily tasks

Symptoms of depression in older individuals: 

• Absence of food in the kitchen to suggest not eating properly
• Not caring for how one looks
• Not staying clean and hygienic
• Not acting happy when people visit

How to Help Someone With Depression

• Express your concern and assure them of your willingness to listen
• Embrace them for who they are without being judgmental
• Supportively suggest that they help themselves by staying physically active, eating well, and participating in enjoyable activities
• Please find out about the services at their disposal, such as the NHS talking therapy service or local support groups for depression
• Stay in touch by texting, calling, or meeting up for coffee. If someone is feeling low, the person may not want to go out a lot
• Be patient with yourself
• Look after your own needs

When someone you care about communicates feelings of wanting to harm themselves, you must contact a GP or reach out to NHS 111 immediately. This may be a direct method, but nevertheless an effective example of how to support someone with depression.

Conclusion 

Supporting someone who is dealing with depression issues requires compassion, patience, and a willingness to help them seek professional assistance. When experiencing depression, it might be challenging to believe that seeking treatment can make a difference. However, the sooner you take that step, the quicker your depression can be alleviated. The right health insurance plan can make seeking professional assistance more accessible, covering therapy sessions and medication that are essential for recovery.

The estimated number of individuals grappling with cancer in India is around 2.7 million. Different body parts are affected by this life-threatening disease, and one specific example is cancer affecting the bone marrow.

Bone marrow is a spongy tissue inside bones. The symptoms a person undergoes will vary based on several factors, including the specific type of cancer and its level of aggressiveness.

The treatment of bone marrow cancer is highly costly, and we cannot emphasise the need for health insurance enough. This brings us to the treatment methods deployed for bone marrow cancer.

Treatment of Bone Marrow Cancer

Following are some treatment methods used for bone marrow cancer:

• Chemotherapy

The bone marrow cancer treatment involves going through chemotherapy. Chemotherapy employs medications to eliminate cancer cells or impede their ability to multiply. Various forms of chemotherapy treatments exist, and doctors typically conduct the administration. While injections or intravenous (IV) drips are common methods, there are instances where individuals may receive chemotherapy through oral medications.

• Radiation Therapy

This therapeutic approach involves the targeted administration of radiation directly into cancer cells to prevent their ability to multiply and stop it from spreading. The administration of radiation treatment can decrease the number of white blood cells (WBCs), red blood cells (RBCs), and platelets in your body. The extent of this reduction depends on the specific area of your body undergoing treatment and the dosage of radiation prescribed.

• Stem cell transplant

Another bone marrow cancer treatment is a stem cell transplant. This procedure involves the infusion of healthy blood-forming stem cells into the patient, intending to replace damaged or cancerous cells in the bone marrow. The transplanted stem cells have the potential to generate new and healthy cells.

• Medication

Some medications can be administered to treat bone marrow cancer. To exemplify, designed to stimulate the body's immune system, immunotherapy drugs work towards empowering the immune response to recognise and eliminate cancer cells in the affected bone.

Conclusion

Bone marrow cancer can take lives if not detected early and treated well. Hence, you should be very cautious about your health. Given the financial implications of prolonged and intensive treatment, health insurance is essential. It offers financial support during treatment, including consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and hospital stays.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

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• Causes of Bone Marrow Cancer: Understanding the Complex Origins of a Silent Threat
• Unraveling The Causes of Bone Cancer
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• What is Cancer Insurance Waiting Period?

Savannah, a coastal city in the US state of Georgia, proudly wears the crown of being the state’s oldest city. Its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and parks have stood the test of time, providing a charming blend of history and modernity.

Beyond its architectural gems and picturesque squares, Savannah's cultural significance extends to the arts. The iconic 1960s song "Moon River" by Johnny Mercer immortalises the city's charm along with his ties to Savannah. The film "Forrest Gump" chose this city as one of its primary settings, etching its landmarks into pop culture history.

This guide will explore the top places to visit in Savannah, each offering different things to do in Savannah, capturing the essence of this magnificent city. 

Top Places to Visit in Savannah

1. Olde Pink House
2. American Prohibition Museum
3. UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium
4. Broughton Street
5. City Market

1. Olde Pink House

One of the best places to visit in Savannah, Olde Pink House has a rich history spanning three centuries. Originally known as the Habersham House, it has survived fires, wars, and occupation. Restored by preservationist Jim Williams, it is now home to the haunted Olde Pink House restaurant. Reports say ghostly occurrences include the playful apparitions of slave children in the basement, wine bottles mysteriously falling, and encounters with the friendly spirit of James Habersham Sr. 

Things to Do at Olde Pink House

• Savour the fusion of Southwestern flavours with dishes such as goat cheese stuffed artichoke fritters, strawberry arugula salad, jumbo sea scallops, and the renowned "Southern sushi"
• Admire the stunning architecture, including the restaurant's eccentric pink colour, which has been part of Olde Pink House’s signature décor for a century

2. American Prohibition Museum

Step back into time at the American Prohibition Museum, the only museum in the US dedicated to the captivating history of Prohibition. This is one of the most informative places to visit in Savannah. Discover how Prohibition and Temperance influenced American culture for over two centuries. Learn how prohibitionist leaders fought against drinking and sought to highlight the consequences associated with drinking, influencing the American people to lobby for prohibition. The museum is usually open daily at fixed times.

Things to Do at American Prohibition Museum

• Uncover the history and motivations behind the 1920 alcohol prohibition movement 
• Admire the collection of vintage posters, pamphlets, and propaganda material that adorn the walls while exploring the 20 engaging exhibits
• Take a selfie with the life-size figure of Carry Nation, the woman who led the movement with a hatchet

3. UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium

Discover the wonders of Georgia's marine life through this marine education centre, one of the most educational places to visit in Savannah. Featuring 16 exhibit tanks, the aquarium showcases diverse species caught by the dedicated staff right off the coast. Visitors can watch marine invertebrates such as whelks and crabs in the public touch tank. The facility also offers a boardwalk along the Skidaway River, supporting inclusive education programmes and providing access for disabled students. 

Things to Do at UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium

• Engage in identifying, sorting, counting, and documenting the diverse sea life discovered in the wild 
• Interact directly with local scientists, discussing their intriguing research and findings
• Take the opportunity to go birdwatching on the campus ground, wherein you can spot various songbirds, wading birds, and waterfowl among the river habitats 

4. Broughton Street

One of the most fun-filled, entertaining places to visit in Savannah, Broughton Street features a mix of historical buildings, vibrant restaurants, renowned retailers, and fascinating skyscrapers. Once boasting impressive structures designed by architects such as Hyman Wallace Witcover, the street saw a decline in business as traffic shifted to the Southside with the opening of Oglethorpe Mall. However, revitalisation efforts in the 1990s brought new life to Broughton Street, reinstating its name as a top retail destination. 

Things to Do at Broughton Street

• Immerse yourself in Gutstein Gallery's ever-changing art exhibitions, a feast for the eyes 
• Satisfy your sweet tooth with Leopold's Ice Cream, founded in 1919 by three immigrant Greek brothers 
• Visit the two-storey Paris Market and Brocante to find some of the coolest treasures and décor from around the world

5. City Market

The market is one of the most happening places to visit in Savannah. It is now a thriving tourist hotspot with a fascinating history. Initially, it served as a bustling marketplace for food and livestock. Over time, it became a place for social and commercial activities. Despite changes, including demolitions and renovations, City Market remains steeped in history and charm. In 1954, the old market was demolished and a new City Market was constructed that incorporated remnants of the original market. 

Things to Do at City Market

• Enter the eclectic shops offering a diverse range of items, from shoes and cigars to bracelets and dog biscuits 
• Delight in the fusion of art galleries and lively nightlife entertainment 
• Visit the six street-level galleries and an art centre to meet artists and watch as they create fabulous art pieces

Best Time to Visit Savannah

The city of Savannah experiences a pleasant climate for most of the year. The best time to check out places to visit in Savannah depends on one's preferences and tolerance for crowds. The high season, from March to July, attracts many tourists. The shoulder season from August to December offers a quieter atmosphere with pleasant weather. The low season, in January and February, sees fewer visitors, making it an ideal time for those seeking a more tranquil experience. 

Travel Insurance for Savannah

It is crucial to consider travel insurance when planning to check out places to visit in Savannah, Georgia. This is because travel insurance benefits you, providing coverage for unforeseen illnesses, losses, or accidents. Trip cancellation insurance safeguards against financial losses from flight or hotel cancellations, allowing you to enjoy your trip worry-free. Do compare the policies offered by various insurers to ensure your needs are being covered before choosing the travel insurance you deem the most suitable. 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the relevant industry. It is advised to verify the relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.

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Maintaining strong abdominal muscles is crucial, as a beer belly poses health risks. Visible packs can be achieved through ab-focused exercises and cardio to burn fat and improve fitness. Besides aesthetics, strong abs improve posture, reducing strain on the body. They also support the back and pelvis, preventing lower back pain and injuries. In addition to prioritising ab health, having good health insurance provides coverage for any unfortunate incidents in the abdominal region.

Best Exercises for Abs

Achieve your ab goals with the following best exercises for abs -1

• Dumbbell side bend
• Bird dog
• Crunch Heel Touches
• Forearm Plank Walkouts
• Russian Twist

1. Dumbbell Side Bend

This is one of the easiest workouts for abs. Position yourself with feet hip-width apart, holding a dumbbell in your right hand; your palm should face inward towards your torso. Engage your core muscles, maintain a straight back, and initiate the movement by bending to the side at your waist. Only your waist should be involved in this motion. Pause momentarily at the bottom of your range of motion and then return to the starting position for one repetition. Aim for 12 to 20 reps to complete a set. Keep your ab muscles tight throughout the exercise.

2. Bird Dog

This is another popular exercise for abs that involves only complete bodyweight movement. To perform it, get into a tabletop position, aligning your shoulders over your wrists and hips over your knees. Engage your core muscles and raise your right arm and left leg simultaneously. Keep your foot flexed while kicking back, and ensure your palm faces inward towards your body. Pause briefly when your arm and leg are parallel to your torso. Bring your elbow and knee together, touching them underneath your body. Repeat the same sequence on the other side to complete one repetition.

3. Crunch Heel Touches

This is one of the best exercises for abs that targets your lower abdominals and strengthens your core. Start this ab exercise by lying flat on your back with your hands behind your head. Bend your knees and bring them up to a 90-degree angle, then lift them into a crunch position. While maintaining the 90-degree angle in your legs, aim to touch your heels to the ground, holding the static crunch. As you exhale, return your legs to the tabletop position.

4. Forearm Plank Walkouts

It is one of the most challenging workouts for abs. It is a popular variation of the traditional plank exercise. To perform this exercise, begin by placing your forearms on the floor, ensuring that your elbows are directly below your shoulders. Ensure that the arms are parallel, shoulder-width apart. Initiate the movement by walking your right foot a few inches forward and then following with your left foot. It's crucial to maintain core stability and prevent any excessive hip movement. For enhanced effectiveness, start by pressing your toes firmly into the floor and squeezing your glutes before initiating the walkouts.

4. Russian Twist

It is one the most important exercise for abs to target the obliques. To perform it correctly, begin by sitting with your knees bent and chest lifted, ensuring your spine remains straight. Gradually lower your back, engaging your core muscles throughout the movement. For added intensity, hold a weight with both hands or keep your hands clasped together. While twisting from side to side, maintain control and move the weight of your hands with you

Conclusion

Achieving and maintaining strong abdominal muscles is essential for overall health and well-being. A combination of the best exercises for abs, such as the Dumbbell Side Bend, Bird Dog, Crunch Heel Touches, Forearm Plank Walkouts, and Russian Twist, can help target different areas of the core and improve posture, reducing the risk of strain and injury. In addition to exercise, safeguarding your well-being through proper health insurance plan is equally important for long-term financial benefits.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

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Training your triceps has several compelling reasons. You can effectively enhance arm size and tone by targeting these muscle bundles. Further, well-trained triceps contribute to shoulder stability. Lastly, workouts for triceps allow you to focus solely on these muscles without involving other groups. While physical care is crucial, having comprehensive health insurance to cover potential medical treatments for triceps is also necessary.

Best Exercises for Triceps

The following are some of the best exercises for triceps -

• Band Triceps Pushdown
• Close-grip Bench Press
• Skull Crusher
• Underhand Kickback
• Standing Overhead Cable Triceps Extension

1. Band Triceps Pushdown

This is one of the popular exercises for triceps and is a targeted approach to working the long head of the triceps. To perform the exercise, attach a resistance band securely to an overhead object, grasping each side of the loop with your palms facing each other. Keep your elbows close to your sides as you extend your arms downward. Focus on contracting the triceps and establishing a strong mind-muscle connection for maximum engagement. Note that you can also do pushdowns using a cable pulley machine with various attachments like a straight bar, V-shaped attachment, or triceps rope.

2. Close-grip Bench Press

This is one of the fantastic workouts for triceps for targeting the lateral and medial heads of the triceps. To perform the exercise, lie on a flat bench and grip the barbell with your index fingers placed on the inside edge of the knurling. Create an arch in your back, ensuring space between your low back and the bench. With the barbell lifted off the rack, lower it to your breastbone while keeping your elbows about 45 degrees to your sides. As the bar touches your body, push your feet firmly into the floor and press the barbell back up.

3. Skull Crusher (Triceps Extension)

This is one of the most versatile exercises for triceps that offers various muscle-building benefits. It helps balance the strength between both arms. To perform the exercise, lie on a flat bench while holding dumbbells with palms facing inward. Start by pressing the weights over your chest, allowing your arms to move back over your face. Maintain the upper arm angle as you bend your elbows and gradually lower the weights behind your head. Next, extend your elbows while keeping the same upper arm angle to return to the starting position. Repeat with regular breaks to stay energised and safe.

4. Underhand Kickback

This is one of the popularly known best exercises for triceps. It uses an underhand grip to enhance its effectiveness by preventing swinging and momentum usage, thus isolating the triceps more effectively.

Stand with a dumbbell in each hand, then hinge at the hips, lowering your torso until it's nearly parallel to the floor. Turn your palms outward with slightly bent elbows, keeping your upper arms essentially close to your sides. Next, extend your elbows until your arms are parallel to your torso. Finally, reverse the motion and return to the starting position.

5. Standing Overhead Cable Triceps Extension

This is a highly effective workout for triceps to promote blood circulation and engage muscle fibres in the triceps. Extend your arms behind your head, emphasising a full range of motion and targeting the long head of the triceps. Position the cable attachment high or low, then pivot away from the station while grasping the rope behind your head. For a dynamic movement, extend your elbows overhead or out in front of your eyes (high attachment). Lower the weight slowly over three seconds to enhance the exercise's intensity, and hold the bottom position for two seconds.

Conclusion

In the list of the best exercise for triceps, the Band Triceps Pushdown targets the long and medial heads, and the Close-grip Bench Press focuses on the lateral and medial heads. Incorporating the Skull Crusher allows for well-rounded muscle development. The Underhand Kickback isolates the triceps effectively, and the Standing Overhead Cable Triceps Extension promotes blood circulation.

Remember, while exercise is crucial for physical well-being, it is equally important to have health insurance policy to ensure financial security.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

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If you want to make your arm muscles stronger and look better, you are in the right place. Many people have been trying to find the best exercises to work on their biceps, which are the muscles in your upper arms that make them look big and defined. This guide will show you some of the best workouts for biceps.

 Best Exercises for Biceps

• Barbell or EZ-Bar Curl
• Hammer Curl
• Incline Dumbbell Curl
• Preacher Curl
• Chin-Up

1. Barbell or EZ-Bar Curl

Barbell is a great exercise for biceps as it engages both the short and long heads of the biceps equally and allows you to lift heavy weights. You can vary the grip width to slightly change the emphasis on different muscle parts.

To perform this exercise, stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Make sure you hold a barbell or EZ bar with an underhand grip. Keep your elbows close to your sides and your chest up. Curl the bar up to your shoulders, squeezing your biceps at the top. Lower the bar slowly and maintain muscle tension throughout the motion.

2. Hammer Curl

This is a great workout for biceps. It targets the brachialis and brachioradialis muscles, which are located on the sides of your arm and help to increase the overall thickness and definition of your biceps. It also puts less stress on your wrists and elbows than other curls.

To perform this exercise, stand with your feet apart at shoulder-width while gripping the dumbbells with a neutral grip, palms facing each other. Lift the dumbbells towards your shoulders curlingly, ensuring that your palms face each other throughout the movement. Lower the dumbbells steadily while keeping tension on the muscle.

3. Incline Dumbbell Curl

This is one of the best exercises for biceps. It allows stretching and isolating the long head of the biceps, which is responsible for creating the peak of the muscle.

To perform this exercise, set an incline bench to about 45 degrees and lie back on it with a pair of dumbbells in your hands. Let your arms hang down by your sides, with a slight bend in your elbows. Keep your palms facing forward and your chest up. Curl the dumbbells up to your ears, squeezing your biceps at the top. Lower the dumbbells with controlled tension throughout.

4. Preacher Curl

This is another good workout for biceps. It focuses on the short head of the biceps, which is responsible for creating the width of the muscle.

To perform this exercise, set up a preacher bench with a barbell or an EZ bar. Set the seat height to have your armpits resting on the top of the pad with arms fully extended. Hold the bar with an underhand grip and curl it toward your forehead, squeezing your biceps at the top. Lower the bar steadily while maintaining tension on the muscle.

5. Chin-Up

This is one of the easiest exercises for biceps. It involves a lot of muscle mass and allows you to use your body weight as resistance. It also activates both heads of the biceps equally and other muscles in your arms and forearms.

To perform this exercise, hold the pull-up bar with an underhand grip slightly wider than shoulder-width. Lift until your chin is above the bar while squeezing your biceps and back at the top. Lower yourself steadily while maintaining muscle tension.

Conclusion

There you have it, five of the best workouts for biceps that you can do to build bigger and stronger arms. Science, experts, and users have proven these exercises to work. They will help you target different muscle parts and stimulate growth from different angles.

Of course, these are not the only biceps exercises you can do. There are many other variations and options that you can try, such as cable curls, concentration curls, drag curls, and more. Experiment and find what works best for you and your goals.  Before you buy a gym subscription make sure to invest in health insurance to deal with any accident while training.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

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Exercise is one of the most popular methods to lose weight. It burns calories, which is vital for weight loss. Many different workouts can help you lose weight. A few of the best exercises for weight loss include Cardio, Yoga, and Pilates, which are great for flexibility, burning calories and improving cardiovascular health. Next is strength training-based exercises for weight loss which include exercises, like lifting weights and doing bodyweight exercises to help you build muscles. 

Let us look at the five best exercises for weight loss.

Best Exercises for Weight Loss

• Walking
• Jogging or running
• Swimming 
• Weight training
• Pilates

1. Walking

Walking is one of the best exercises for weight loss and also the easiest of all. It is a simple and easy way to get started, especially if you are new to working out and do not want to buy any special equipment. Walking regularly and gradually picking up the pace and distance can make a big difference in shedding those extra pounds over time. The best part is you can easily fit walking into your daily routine. For instance, take a walk during your lunch break, use the stairs at work instead of the elevator, or go for extra walks with your furry friend (if you have one!) to increase the number of steps you take daily.

2. Jogging

A jogging pace is often between 6-9 km/h, while a running pace is speedier than 9 km/h, despite the similarities in appearance. According to a research study by Harvard Health, someone who weighs 70 kg can burn around 288 calories in 30 minutes of jogging at a speed of 8 km/h or 360 calories by running at 9.7km/h speed for 30 minutes. Jogging and running are great for losing belly fat. They are easy exercises you can do anywhere and fit into your weekly schedule without hassle. Try jogging for about 20 to 30 minutes, 3 to 4 times a week.

3. Swimming

Swimming is another fantastic exercise for weight loss and is a lot of fun too. Research on competitive swimmers showed that the breaststroke burned the most calories, followed by the butterfly, backstroke, and freestyle. Swimming regularly, like doing it for an hour three times a week, can make a difference. It can help you reduce body fat, become more flexible, and even lower your risk of heart disease by cutting down on cholesterol and blood triglycerides. So, jump into the pool and swim your way to a healthier you!

4. Weight training

Lifting weights is one of the best exercises for weight loss, even when you are just sitting or resting. It helps you get stronger and build more muscles. For instance, weighing around 70 kg, you can burn up to 108 calories in weight training of 30 minutes.

Some research studied people doing strength-based exercises for only 11 minutes, three times a week, for six months. Surprisingly, they saw an average improvement of 7.4% in their metabolic rate. Unlike aerobic exercises, the best part is that after a weight-training session, your body keeps burning calories for many hours. 

5. Pilates

Pilates is one of the best exercises for weight loss for beginners. It focuses on core strength and flexibility. Pilates can burn calories, although not as much as aerobic exercises. However, with regular Pilates practice, you can gradually burn a substantial number of calories. Many people find Pilates enjoyable, which makes it easier to stick to over time. It also builds muscle mass and improves posture and metabolism. 

Conclusion

Although it takes time and effort, it is possible to reach your goals by being consistent throughout your weight loss journey. Take a calorie-deficit diet and follow the exercises for weight loss discussed above in your schedule. Note there is a chance of acquiring health issues during the difficult process of losing weight. These issues can include obesity-related illnesses like heart disease, stroke, T2 diabetes, and certain cancers. You will be less likely to be required to pay for the high expense of medical care for these disorders if you have health insurance.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

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• Best Exercises for Toning the Calves: A Complete Guide to Sculpted and Strong Lower Legs
• Best Exercises for Toning the Hips: Sculpting Your Way to Stronger and Shapelier Hips

Have you been worrying about hormone imbalance lately? You need not panic. This blog is about how to avoid hormonal imbalance and suggests measures to lead a healthy life.

How Can I Balance My Hormones?

Given its responsibility for hormone circulation, the endocrine system is quite sensitive. It carries out a wide variety of day-to-day functions of our body. The body can experience substantial stress from even small changes in hormone levels. This can lead to chronic issues over time. Here is how to prevent hormonal imbalance the right way: 

• Getting enough sleep: Hormonal equilibrium requires quality sleep. In reaction to sleep quality, hormones change throughout the day. Problems with appetite, diabetes, and obesity can all follow from disrupted sleep. Maintaining a complete, uninterrupted night's sleep aids in hormone level control. Further improvement in sleep quality might come from consistent sleeping habits and a relaxing night ritual.
• Avoiding excessive light at night: Blue light from screens can throw off your sleep cycle by lowering the synthesis of melatonin, a hormone that affects sleep and other body processes. Keep your natural circadian rhythm by avoiding strong artificial light at night. Additionally, blue light-blocking glasses or programmess that filter blue light on devices are useful.
• Managing stress: Stress can seriously disrupt your endocrine system and hormone levels. Even mild stress levels can set off a notable endocrine reaction, raising adrenaline and cortisol levels. These hormones can throw general equilibrium off balance and aggravate obesity, mood swings, and heart disease. Listening to music can help greatly lower tension, and yoga or mindfulness.
• Exercising regularly: Exercise lowers insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes risk, in addition to helping to balance hormones controlling hunger. Even brief physical exercise helps. Regular physical exercise boosts endurance and helps muscles expand, therefore enhancing hormonal balance.
• Reducing sugar intake: Diabetes and insulin resistance have been linked to increasing sugar intake. Cutting sugar, including table sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, helps to preserve appropriate hormone levels. Changing sweet delicacies for healthy options like fruits may also help regulate sugar cravings and hormonal swings.
• Eating healthy fats: The good fats in a diet aid in balancing hormones controlling metabolism, hunger, and fullness. Studies point to olive and coconut oils as excellent sources of beneficial fats. Including avocados and nuts in the diet will supply additional good fats supporting hormone balance. Including seeds high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseeds and chia seeds, will help reduce inflammation and more generally preserve hormonal equilibrium.
• Increasing fiber intake: Fiber is essential for gut health and helps control other hormones, including insulin. In high-fiber diets, whole grains, lentils, vegetables, and fruits aid in maintaining the regularity of the digestive tract and controlling hormones. Including many sources of fiber guarantees a wide spectrum of nutrients and phytochemicals that interact to support overall health.
• Adding fatty fish to diet: Omega-3 fatty acids abound in fatty fish and are essential for the heart, brain, and general well-being. They might also help balance chemicals connected to mood, therefore, lowering the risk of anxiety and sadness. A couple times a week include fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines will help you. Frequent intake of these fatty fish not only promotes hormonal balance but also helps to improve vascular health and cognitive ability.
• Avoiding overeating: Consistent overindulging can result in long-term metabolic problems. Changes in blood fat levels and more oxidative stress, which can aggravate insulin resistance, are among the temporary effects. Mindful eating techniques can help control the danger of overindulgence and preserve appropriate portion sizes. Meal planning and minimizing distractions when eating help promote more conscious consumption and improved digestion, boosting hormonal health.
• Drinking green tea: Green tea improves metabolic health with its antioxidants, which help lower fasting insulin levels and control oxidative stress. Green tea's catechins especially help maintain hormonal balance and improve metabolic health. Additionally, regular use of green tea is connected to a lower incidence of numerous malignancies, heart disease, and other health issues, making it a good addition to everyday activities.
• Quitting smoking: Smoking can throw off cortisol and thyroid hormones. Giving up smoking can help bring hormones back into line and lower stress. Effective assistance in stopping smoking is support groups and nicotine replacement treatments.
• Be cautious with dairy products: Dairy products affect reproductive hormone levels in females. Women who are worried about hormonal balance should think about cutting back on their dairy intake. It is applicable, particularly for items like yoghurt and cream. Choosing low-dairy or dairy-free substitutes could help to control hormones.

Conclusion

You can now stop wondering, “How do I keep my hormones balanced?" Hormonal imbalance prevention is all about identifying symptoms, performing proper tests, and starting treatments. Remember to get health insurance to secure financial coverage for medical costs associated with hormonal balance.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

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Testosterone, a male steroid hormone, is responsible for a man’s healthy sex drive. Usually, the testosterone levels should be between 300 and 1,000 ng/dL. If the testosterone is below this level, you will have to take testosterone injections (testosterone replacement therapy) as suggested by the doctor.

Benefits of Testosterone Injections

The benefits of testosterone shots range from regulating male hormone levels to addressing low T problems. For men with low testosterone (low T), the benefits of testosterone injections include more energy, increased sex drive and sperm count, and improved symptoms of ED.

Another advantage of testosterone shots is that they regulate fat distribution. Moreover, the benefits from testosterone injections also include healthy bone mineral density.

A lesser-known testosterone injection advantage includes improved cognitive health.

Conclusion

Testosterone therapy benefits men with low T levels. So, if you’re also keen on taking the benefits of testosterone treatment, get health insurance today, as it will help you cover medical expenses.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

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The human immune system operates very delicately; hence, it must be strong and healthy enough to fight various illnesses and infections. However, the immune system must stay within its natural limits of functioning, preventing it from overreacting unnecessarily at every minor challenge. The purpose behind boosting immunity is essential; to achieve this, it's crucial to study and control inputs generated by the immune system. If we want our immune system to work optimally, we should learn how to balance its functioning to ensure a healthy and fulfilling life.

How to increase immunity home remedies

Listed below are some essential tips to follow to strengthen the immune system:

• Skip sugary food items
• Reduce stress for better immunity functioning
• Sleep, a natural immunity booster
• Eat colourful fruits that boost your immune system
• Increase intake of Vitamin C 

1. Skip sugary food items

Foods primarily made of processed sugar lack nutritional value and can raise blood sugar significantly, causing overweight and obesity. Obesity exposes us to diseases and can weaken the immune system, leading to health conditions such as type-2 diabetes and heart disease. Hence, one must reduce sugary food intake to prevent blood glucose levels from increasing and weakening the immune system. Instead, you can have food with high-quality carbohydrates, such as apples, berries, pears, and oranges.

2. Reduce stress for better immunity functioning

When stressed, the body secretes glucagon and cortisol hormones, causing blood sugar levels to rise. Scientific studies have shown that exercise, relaxation, yoga, and meditation markedly reduce stress and lower blood sugar levels. Such activities also help correct insulin secretion problems among people with chronic diabetes. Studies have shown that long-term stress promotes inflammation and imbalances in immune cell functioning. In particular, prolonged psychological stress can suppress our body's immune response.

3. Sleep, a natural immunity booster

Sleep and immunity are closely related and affect the body's immunity system. Improper or poor quality sleep shows a higher susceptibility to sickness. Studies have shown that adequate rest may strengthen the body's natural immunity. Also, sleeping long hours when unwell may help our immune system better fight illnesses. Doctors recommend that adults aim to get 7 or more hours of sleep each night, adolescents should sleep for 8–10 hours, and younger children and infants up to 14 hours. 

4. Eat colourful fruits that boost your immune system

Remember, taking care of our dietary regimen is an investment in maintaining good health, strength, fitness, and overall well-being. Fruits packed with high-fibre content, rich in amino acids, and high protein sources include guavas, avocados, jackfruit, apricots, and kiwifruit. Guava is top among high-protein fruits as it supplements our diet with a whopping 4.2 grams of protein, including a fair amount of vitamin C, magnesium, vitamin A, iron, and the antioxidant lycopene that prevents ageing. 

5. Increase intake of Vitamin C 

Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron more efficiently, because of which the concentration of haemoglobin in the blood increases. This is why health professionals recommend eating vitamin-C-rich food sources during pregnancy to maintain the haemoglobin level in both mother and child. Foods that increase vitamin C in the body are broccoli, citrus fruits, potatoes, strawberries, gooseberries, oranges, lemon, sweet lime, bell peppers, tomatoes, grapefruits, and berries. 

Conclusion

Healthy eating is one of the best ways to prevent or manage diabetes, as this is one of the illnesses that reduce our body's immunity power. It also makes us vulnerable to other ailments such as cardiovascular, kidney, and liver diseases. Hence, learning how to increase immunity through home remedies is vital. We should be aware of the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables as sources of protein and vitamins for providing energy and a balanced diet to improve gut health and immunity. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and the right health insurance plan can help a person manage problems such as obesity and strengthen the immune system.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

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Hormones are chemical messengers secreted by a group of glands in the body. They coordinate several important functions in the body and greatly impact a person’s well-being. Health issues like thyroid, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and Cushing's syndrome are a few health conditions that result from hormonal imbalances. Stress and a poor diet are two important factors leading to hormonal imbalances.

Food for Hormonal Imbalances

Nutritious foods to help hormonal imbalances can be a great step toward a healthy endocrine system. A hormone-balancing diet should comprise all the essential – micro and macronutrients. Vitamins, minerals, protein, and healthy fatty acids should be present in the diet for hormonal balance. The list of food to eat to balance hormones is as follows:

• Eggs: Eggs comprise an excellent balance of fats and proteins required for hormone production. Vitamin D and B6 are good for estrogen metabolism. Incorporating eggs among is foods to help hormonal imbalances an effective option.
• Cruciferous vegetables: Cruciferous vegetables are good hormone-balancing foods as they contain the phytochemical indole-3-carbinol that promotes liver health. Cruciferous foods to regulate hormones are cabbage, broccoli, kale, radish, cauliflower, etc.
• Nuts: They provide the body with micros and are beneficial for improving insulin sensitivity, controlling blood sugar levels, along with balancing hormones. Walnuts and almonds have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory abilities, making them a good food to eat to balance hormones.
• Seeds (sunflower, flaxseeds, sesame, and pumpkin): Seeds are loaded with zinc and selenium, essential minerals that support thyroid health. Lignan, a type of phytoestrogen found in flaxseeds, balances estrogen.
• Coconut oil: With its rich content of medium-chain fatty acids, coconut oil is a valuable addition to foods to regulate hormones.These medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and fatty acids are crucial for metabolism, hormone production (stress hormones), and regulation.
• Berries: Balancing hormones through a diet loaded with vitamins, phytochemicals, and antioxidants is necessary to control hormones, and what better way than deciding on berries? Vitamin C is abundant in berries, which has a vital role in progesterone regulation.
• Green tea: With too much antioxidants, green tea is designed to balance hormones. But be careful with how much green tea you drink, as the high amount of caffeine in it can disrupt hormones.

Hormonal health promotes overall well-being that requires healthy nutritional choices. However, having a health insurance policy is crucial to cover medical expenses when a need arises.

Conclusion

Incorporating healthy nutrition is a crucial aspect of food and hormonal health and maintaining overall well-being. Some foods that regulate hormonal health are eggs, cruciferous vegetables, nuts, seeds, coconut oil, berries, and green tea.

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 your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. 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.

Also Read

• 8 Popular Indian Food Myths Busted
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• Foods Causing Appendicitis: What to Avoid?
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• Optimizing Digestive Wellness: A Guide to High-Fiber Foods for a Healthy Gut