The journey of weight loss not only involves following a fitness regime but also taking care of what you eat and drink. What if we tell you that there are beverages that boost metabolism and assist in shedding those extra kilos? Well, let's learn more about the best morning drinks for weight loss. 

5 morning drinks for weight loss

Start your day with these drinks that can help you lose weight -

1. Lemon with warm water:

   Lemons are a great source of vitamin C and help significantly in improving digestion and detoxification. Just squeezing half a lemon in a glass of warm water can work wonders. You can always add black pepper or honey if it suits your taste buds.

2. Herbal detox tea:

   Indians love their cup of chai. Well, if you want to lose weight, you have to ditch your masala chai for herbal detox tea. It contains herbs, such as dandelion, ginger, and liquorice root. This blend will detoxify the body and aid in weight loss by improving digestion and metabolism and suppressing hunger pangs.

3. Turmeric water:

   Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. Do you know that inflammation can lead to weight gain? Well, do the maths and start having turmeric powder with warm water. Feel free to add honey or lemon to make it tastier.

4. Jeera water:

   Isn't this every mom's best advice? Soak a teaspoon of cumin seeds in a glass of water overnight and in the morning boil this mixture for four-five minutes and drink as tea. Drinking this concoction religiously may provide your body with antioxidants.

5. Cucumber and mint water:

   How about a mocktail in the morning? Well, whip up a refreshing drink by adding two cool agents - cucumber and mint. You will instantly feel hydrated. And in the long run, it may improve your health, both physical and mental.

Conclusion

There are no magic drinks that will start burning fat and show results the next day. Weight loss is a process that demands consistency. Also, remember in addition to the best morning drink for weight loss, you must focus on a balanced and nutritious dietary regimen, regular exercise/physical activity, and lifestyle changes in your weight loss journey.

The food we regularly consume plays a vital role in our overall health and well-being. If you enjoy exploring different cuisines while being mindful of your health, you're in for a treat. There are many healthy and flavourful cuisines that can tantalize the taste buds and nourish your body at the same time. Read on to discover the top 10 healthiest cuisines in the world, ideal for health enthusiasts.

Top 10 healthy cuisines from around the world

The following are the top 10 healthiest cuisines in the world:

1. Greek

This cuisine is known for its abundant use of fresh, wholesome ingredients, which help create balanced meals. Simple cooking techniques, such as grilling and steaming, enhance the flavours of ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and spices while retaining their nutritional value. Some nutritious Greek delicacies include hummus (chickpea dip), fasolada (bean soup), melitzanosalata (eggplant salad), and grilled fish.

2. Japanese

This cuisine is known for its healthy cooking techniques, like steaming, simmering, and grilling, which minimize the use of unhealthy fats and help preserve nutrients. The cuisine features various fresh, seasonal, and nutritious ingredients, including vegetables, rice, and fish. Miso, a fermented soy product containing probiotics, is a traditional seasoning used extensively in Japanese cooking. Other healthy and flavourful dishes include sushi, natto, soba, and sashimi.

3. Mexican

Authentic Mexican cuisine is a combination of flavours and nutrients centred around beans, fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains like corn. Staples such as black beans, tomatoes, avocados, and chilli peppers are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The traditional use of herbs and spices offers flavour without excessive fats or sodium, making it perfect for health and food enthusiasts. When prepared traditionally, Mexican dishes offer a balanced content of carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats, contributing to overall health and well-being.

4. Korean

Dishes from Korean cuisine feature various vegetables rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre. The cuisine also includes lean protein, healthy fats, and anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger, garlic, and chili peppers. Staples like kimchi, gochujang, and doenjang are fermented foods that contain probiotics. Koreans also use other healthy cooking methods, like boiling, blanching, grilling, pickling, and stir-frying. A traditional Korean meal, known as bapsang, typically includes a healthy combination of soups or stews, rice, side dishes, fermented vegetables, and grilled meat.

5. Thai

Thai cuisine includes a variety of vegetables, herbs, spices, healthy fats, and lean protein. The green papaya salad (Som Tam) is a nutritious, gut-healthy, gluten-free dish ideal for fitness enthusiasts. Other healthy options include Tom Yum soup, Pad Pak (stir-fried vegetables), Gaeng Liang (vegetable soup), and coconut curry with vegetables. Simple cooking techniques, such as stir-frying, boiling, steaming, and grilling, keep Thai dishes light, healthy, and flavourful.

6. Spanish

This cuisine is heavily influenced by the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits. Dishes are prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients and flavoured with herbs and spices, like saffron, garlic, and paprika. Olive oil, a staple in Spanish cooking, provides healthy monounsaturated fats. Some options for health enthusiasts include gazpacho (soup prepared with raw vegetables), seafood paella, grilled fish, and roasted vegetables. Seafood, central to Spanish cuisine, is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids.

7. Italian

Inspired by the Mediterranean diet, Italian cuisine includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, seafood, and olive oil. Italian bread and whole wheat pasta contain nutritious whole grains, fibre, and essential nutrients. A wholesome Italian meal may consist of soups, raw or cooked vegetables, green salad, rice, pasta, pulses, fish, meat, eggs, and boiled foods such as polenta. Healthy cooking methods, such as sautéing, boiling, grilling, roasting, and stewing, help retain the nutrients of the ingredients used.

8. Indian

Due to its traditional use of beneficial spices like ginger, garlic, turmeric and cumin, Indian cuisine is known throughout the world as a healthy and tasty food option. The traditional Indian diet consists of lentils or daal, vegetables, chapati or flatbread made with wheat and other grains offering high fibre content that is good for digestive health. Additional components such as yoghurt, salad and local fruits, along with the traditional cooking methods add on to its health benefits. Ghee and mustard oil contain good fat, making Indian cuisine one of the most varied and healthy options. 

9. French

French cuisine focuses on fresh, local ingredients. A wholesome French meal may include seasonal vegetables, olive oil, fish, lean meats, poultry, whole grains, cheese, and yogurt. Traditional French cooking techniques, such as roasting, steaming, and poaching, help preserve the nutrient content of various ingredients, making this cuisine ideal for mindful eaters. Some nutritious French dishes are ratatouille (stewed vegetables), salmon en papillote (salmon and vegetables), and soupe au pistou (pesto vegetable soup).

10. Lebanese

This cuisine includes various nutritious vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and lean protein. Instead of relying on unhealthy fats, Lebanese dishes are flavoured with herbs and spices. Many meals are baked, grilled, or stewed to keep the nutrients intact. For health enthusiasts, dishes like lentil soup, hummus (chickpea dip), Fattoush (salad), and tabbouleh (salad) are excellent choices.

Conclusion

The healthiest cuisines in the world are a treasure trove of nutrition and flavours. Even if you are health-conscious, you can still enjoy delicious and nutritious dishes from various culinary traditions across the globe without compromising your dietary goals.  Prioritising a balanced diet, along with a comprehensive health insurance plan, ensures that you maintain overall well-being while savouring the best flavours the world has to offer.

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.

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Cancer is a life-threatening condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It not only impacts the physical health of a person but also his/her emotional and psychological well-being. Managing cancer can be challenging, and the cold weather can make things worse for many. It can make the symptoms more pronounced and impact the mood and diet of a cancer patient. Hence, they need to take good care of their well-being and find ways to stay warm and comfortable during the winter season. Here, we will explore essential winter care for cancer patients.

Essential winter care tips for Cancer patients

The following are some essential winter care tips for cancer patients -

1. Stay indoors:

   It is wise for cancer patients to stay indoors, especially when it is biting cold outside. Cancer treatment weakens the immune system and causes anaemia, exhaustion, and dehydration. These health issues can increase the risk of dangerously low body temperature or hypothermia. Hypothermia is a severe condition that can prevent the heart, nervous system, respiratory system, and other organs from functioning properly. Hence, cancer patients should avoid stepping out during extremely cold weather conditions.

2. Dress up in layers:

   Wearing multiple layers of clothing during the winter months is essential for staying warm and preventing hypothermia. Along with sweaters and jackets, it is important to wear gloves, socks, boots, scarves, and woollen caps. These can keep them comfortable and allow for easy adjustments based on changing temperatures.

3. Stay hydrated:

   It is vital to stay hydrated, even when it is cold outside. Apart from water, cancer patients should drink soups, fruit juices, herbal teas, and non-caffeinated beverages throughout the day.

4. Consume a balanced diet:

   Cancer patients must include lots of nutritious fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins in their diet. These foods can provide antioxidants and vital nutrients that help boost immunity and energy levels. Moreover, it is advisable to eat smaller, frequent meals and limit the consumption of processed foods.

5. Skincare:

   Cancer treatments can change skin appearance and make it dry and sensitive. Therefore, cancer patients must use the right skincare products regularly to maintain healthy skin and avoid associated issues.

Conclusion

To sum up, cold weather may impact cancer patients and this makes it more important for them to take extra care during the winter months. This includes staying warm and hydrated, consuming a healthy diet, and taking the prescribed medications on time. Additionally, since cancer treatment can be long-term and expensive, it is crucial to have the right medical insurance or a critical illness insurance policy handy for financial protection and peace of mind. With this insurance product in place, patients can focus on their treatment and recovery rather than worrying about their medical bills.

The winters are when precautions need to be taken about acclimatising to the sudden drop in temperatures, limited outdoor activities, and exposure to common viruses. All these may decrease children's immunity, leading to infections like the common cold and flu.

As a parent, knowing how to keep your child healthy during the winter is vital. Also, remember that besides preventive measures, investing in a comprehensive health insurance policy is necessary to remain prepared against medical emergencies.

Tips to keep your children healthy this winter

You can consider the following tips to safeguard the health of your children in winter -

1. Help improve their Immunity

Developing your child's immunity is one effective way to keep him/her healthy during the winter. Adding seasonal green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, and whole grains to your kid's diet is necessary. Foods containing vitamin C, such as oranges and strawberries, can help build immunity in children and fight infections. Vitamin C-rich foods keep the common cold and flu at bay. Also, staying well hydrated during winter is essential to prevent dehydration and hypothermia.

2. Encourage physical activity

Motivate your kids to play indoor games like balloon tennis and hula hoop, and practice beginner-level breathing exercises. When outdoors, they can indulge in outdoor games like hopscotch, hide and seek, and tag. Regular movement improves blood circulation and boosts the immune system, keeping them active and healthy.

3. Develop good hygiene habits

Learning the importance of personal hygiene is necessary. Teach your children to wash their hands properly and frequently, especially before and after eating and playing. Make them learn to cough or sneeze into their elbows or to use a tissue if they must blow their noses to prevent spreading germs.

4. Dress them appropriately

Dress your children in layers to keep them warm and covered. Layers allow one to easily remove or add woollens depending on the temperature. Remember not to add too many layers, as this will make them feel uncomfortable. Ensure that they stay comfortable and warm indoors and outdoors.

5. Focus on skincare

Moisturise your children's skin with baby oil or a moisturiser to prevent dry and chapped skin. Use lukewarm water to them a bath twice or thrice a week. You can also use milk; rub it on the skin for a few seconds and wash it off with lukewarm water. Always do a patch test if you are introducing a new ingredient or product into your child's skincare routine.

Conclusion

A healthy lifestyle, proper hygiene, and knowing how to keep your child healthy during winter can be appropriate measures to minimise the risk of ailments that are common during this season. Investing in a family health insurance policy is wise. This will ensure all the household members, especially your little ones, receive quality healthcare if the need arises. You can focus on their recovery without worrying about the unexpected expenses arising from health-related issues.

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterised by high levels of sugar in the blood. It happens when the pancreas cannot produce adequate amounts of insulin (type 1 diabetes) or when the body is unable to effectively use the insulin it produces (type 2 diabetes). Although diabetes has no cure, the condition can be managed with healthy lifestyle choices and medication. Considering the rising number of diabetes cases worldwide, November 14 is observed as World Diabetes Day every year. Read on to learn more about the significance of this day.

Significance of World Diabetes Day

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing globally among people of all ages. If not managed properly, the condition can significantly affect your lifestyle and lead to various complications, including kidney damage, vision problems, and cardiovascular conditions. Given the severity of the condition, World Diabetes Day is observed to raise awareness about diabetes and educate people about its symptoms, management, and treatment options. The day is hosted by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO).

How to reduce the risk of Diabetes?

If you are wondering how to lower your risk of diabetes, the following tips can help you prevent the onset of the disease and promote your overall well-being -

1. Exercise regularly:

   Prediabetes can reduce insulin sensitivity in the body, gradually leading to diabetes. Regular exercise or physical activity can increase glucose disposal, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce your risk of diabetes.

2. Check your carb intake:

   Your body breaks down carbohydrates into sugar. This sugar is stored in the cells and used to produce energy. Prediabetes reduces insulin sensitivity and prevents blood sugar from moving to the cells. This increases glucose levels in the blood and leads to diabetes. Hence, it is essential to manage your overall carbohydrate intake and choose foods high in fibre. Some examples are fruits, broccoli, mushrooms, non-starchy vegetables, oatmeal, and whole grains.

3. Shed those extra pounds:

   Being overweight increases the risk of type 2 diabetes. Consuming a healthy, balanced, and high-fibre diet, limiting your intake of processed foods, and exercising regularly can help you keep your weight in check.

4. Eat smaller, more frequent meals:

   Eating smaller meals 5 to 6 times a day can help stabilise blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of diabetes. This allows the pancreas to function more efficiently, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. It can also help prevent weight gain and associated health issues.

5. Consume a high-fibre diet:

   Soluble fibre slows down the absorption of food, preventing sudden increases in blood sugar levels. Moreover, high-fibre foods also support gut health and help you maintain a healthy weight.

Conclusion

These are some tips that can reduce the risk of diabetes. In addition, you must get adequate sleep at night, quit smoking, and stay hydrated. Diabetes can increase the risk of kidney failure, heart attack, stroke, and other severe conditions. Therefore, if you are a diabetic, find effective ways to manage the condition. Also, it is wise to stay covered under health or medical insurance for those uncertain times. This insurance product can help cover your healthcare bills and ease your worries during medical emergencies.

Children's Day is a fun time to celebrate the happiness and innocence of kids, but while we enjoy the day, it's also important to think about your children's future, especially their health. Medical emergencies can come without warning, and with rising healthcare costs, one of the best ways to protect your child is by getting health insurance. A comprehensive health insurance plan not only helps with medical expenses but ensures your child receives the best care possible. This Children's Day, give your child the gift of health and security by choosing the right insurance policy.

What is children's health insurance?

Children’s health insurance is an insurance product that covers medical costs for kids. It can either be a separate policy or part of a family floater plan. These plans usually cover expenses like doctor visits, hospitalisations, treatments, surgeries, and even vaccinations. Some standard health insurance policies also cover critical illnesses children might contract (like severe infections) or congenital disorders (only internal congenital diseases). The goal is to ensure you can focus on your child's recovery rather than worrying about the medical bills.

Benefits of health insurance for children

The following are significant advantages of investing in health insurance for children -

1. Financial protection

Children's health insurance helps cover medical costs, which can quickly escalate and lead to exorbitant bills. Whether it's a minor illness or a bigger one, the insurance plan makes sure you're not paying large sums out of pocket.

2. Wide coverage

Most children's health insurance plans cover a variety of aspects like doctor visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and aftercare. This gives your child complete medical coverage in case of medical emergencies or planned hospitalisations.

3. Cashless hospitalisation

Many health insurance companies partner with hospitals, allowing you to get treatment without paying upfront. The insurer settles the bill directly with your chosen healthcare establishment, making it much easier for you during emergencies.

4. Coverage for critical illnesses

Some plans also cover severe health issues like cancer or cardiac ailments. These treatments can be costly, but with insurance by your side, your child can get the necessary care without straining your finances.

5. Preventive care

Many plans cover routine check-ups and vaccinations helping you keep track of your child's health and ensuring he/she stays protected from illnesses.

Conclusion

This Children's Day, while we celebrate the joy that kids bring into our lives, let's also think about securing their future. Health insurance ensures your child can receive the best medical care without you worrying about the cost. By choosing the right health insurance plan, you're not just protecting your finances but also giving your child the gift of a healthier, safer future.

It's normal to dismiss the need for regular health check-ups when one is in the pink of their health. However, it is important to conduct regular health check-ups. Medical check-ups help detect risk factors and early signs of any ailment so you can take the necessary precautions/medications and avoid a bigger concern later. On International Men's Day, let's emphasise the importance of regular health check-ups for men to help keep diseases at bay.

Benefits of regular health check-ups for men

Some key benefits of regular health check-ups for men are -

1. Detect health issues early :

   Some medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases, and certain cancers do not show any symptoms in the early stages. With regular check-ups, early signs of these conditions can be identified and successfully treated.

2. Manage chronic conditions:

   Regular health check-ups are beneficial for people with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, or heart disease, as they can help manage the conditions and prevent complications.

3. Preventive care:

   When risk factors are identified, you can take preventive measures like adopting a healthy lifestyle, vaccinations, and screenings to stay healthy.

4. Mental health care:

   Along with physical ailments, early detection of mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress can help people overcome the symptoms and live fulfilling lives.

5. Quality of life:

   When you take care of potential health issues, there is a reduced risk of developing chronic illnesses, thereby improving the quality of life as you age.

Common tests and screenings for men

Some common tests and screenings which must be done by all men for their overall health and well-being are -

1. Blood sugar:

   With age, the risk of type 2 diabetes increases. Hence, after the age of 45, men must get tested for diabetes every three years. However, those who are at risk of developing diabetes due to family history, obesity, or high blood pressure must undergo tests earlier and more frequently. Early detection can help prevent or delay complications arising out of diabetes.

2. Blood pressure:

   Detecting high blood pressure or hypertension early can help manage the condition with lifestyle modifications or medication. High blood pressure also increases the risk of cardiac ailments and heart attacks. It is, therefore, recommended that men aged 18-39 with normal blood pressure should get checked at least once every two years. Men above 40 years of age or with risk factors must be screened every year.

3. Cholesterol:

   For men aged 20 and above, it is crucial to get tested for cholesterol every five years. However, people with risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, or a family history of heart disease must be tested frequently or as advised by the doctor.

4. Prostate cancer screening:

   Prostate cancer is common among men. As men turn 50, they must discuss with their doctor about prostate cancer screening. If they are at risk of developing this form of carcinoma, they can undergo screenings from an earlier age.

5. Skin cancer screening:

   If there's a family history of skin cancer or excessive exposure to the sun, it is important to have regular self-examinations or get checked by a skin specialist periodically.

6. Colorectal cancer screening:

   This is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Hence, regular screenings for colorectal cancer must start at age 45-50, and the frequency of tests must be based on individual risk factors.

7. Vision and hearing tests:

   Eyes must be tested every two years until age 60 and annually thereafter. Hearing tests must be conducted every 10 years until 50 years of age and then every three years.

Conclusion

Now that you know the advantages of regular health check-ups, ensure you get tested periodically for optimal health. In addition, keep health insurance plans handy to protect yourself financially during medical emergencies.

World Vegan Day, celebrated globally on November 1, is dedicated to raising awareness about the benefits of veganism not only on an individual's health and lifestyle but also on the environment. So, what are the health benefits of a vegan diet? Let's find out.

What are the health benefits of a vegan diet?

A vegan diet is all about plant-based foods. A well-balanced vegan diet with various vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds offers several health benefits -

1. Reduces risk of heart disease:

   As the fat from vegetables and nuts contains less bad cholesterol compared to fat from animal products, a vegan diet reduces the risk of cardiac disease and heart attacks. According to a research study on Healthline, vegan food lowers the risk of heart diseases by about 46%.

2. Helps in weight management:

   People following a vegan diet have a lower body mass index (BMI), higher metabolism, and tend to stay fit and slim. The reason is vegan foods contain less saturated fats and calories than animal-based foods. So, it's easier for vegans to maintain a healthy body weight.

3. Boosts immunity:

   Vegan foods are more nutritious because they contain more vitamins, fibre, minerals, antioxidants, and unprocessed foods. Following a vegan diet boosts immunity and helps to fight infections and diseases.

4. May prevent certain cancers:

   According to a systematic review of observational studies on a vegetarian, vegan diet and multiple health outcomes on PubMed, consuming more plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, and legumes may lower the risk of developing cancers by 15%. For instance, having legumes regularly may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, and including more soy products in your diet may prevent breast cancer. Meat, particularly red meat, has been proven to cause certain types of cancers.

5. Lower risk of diabetes-related complications:

   If you follow a vegan diet, your blood sugar levels may be lower and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes also may be low compared to non-vegans. Consuming plant-based foods may lower the risk of diabetes by 78%. Those with diabetes are also less likely to develop complications related to the disease, such as obesity, kidney issues, and neuropathy.

6. Helps reduce inflammation:

   As vegan goods are rich in antioxidants, they may help reduce symptoms of arthritis like inflammation, swelling, and pain.

Conclusion

Going vegan benefits not only our health and lifestyle but also the environment, and consuming this diet may reduce the risk of falling sick. However, medical emergencies can happen to anyone at any time. Hence, having a comprehensive health insurance policy will protect you financially against ever-rising medical expenses.

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eyes, which can happen either due to any infection or without any infection. The clinical presentation involves redness of the eyes and watery discharge. Conjunctivitis can be due to viral infections, which is the most common one, followed by bacterial conjunctivitis. The non-infectious causes may be due to toxin exposure or allergic reactions. Conjunctivitis is one of the common causes of eye redness in hospitals and clinics. It is usually self-limiting, with extremely rare cases of conjunctivitis associated with vision loss. One major aspect of conjunctivitis treatment is to reduce the rate of transmission.

Ways to prevent conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is associated with a burning sensation, grittiness, redness, painfulness and itchiness of the eyes. In most cases, it can spread from one person to another through the watery discharge. To prevent the transmission of infection, follow the below-mentioned means:

• Avoid touching the eyes and its surrounding areas
• Maintain hand hygiene by washing regularly to stop the transmission of the virus or bacteria from the eyes through the hands
• Use washed towels and wear washed clothes every day
• Avoid makeup while infected. As bacteria can grow in cosmetics, refrain from sharing eye makeup with others.
• Use clean bedsheets and pillowcases
• Discard old eye makeup like kajal and mascara
• Do not wear contact lenses while infected.

Conclusion

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye infections, and the treatment depends upon the type of conjunctivitis. There is no particular medicine for viral conjunctivitis, and usually, the body is capable of fighting the virus. However, antibiotics are available for bacterial conjunctivitis. Eyedrops and medicines can provide symptomatic relief. Conjunctivitis goes away by itself in 1-2 weeks; however, if the symptoms persist, it warrants further diagnosis and required medical intervention. Consulting an eye specialist can be covered by the health insurance to ensure timely and appropriate care if needed. Through good personal hygiene practices, we can easily prevent the spread of conjunctivitis.

Ringworm infection is a fungal infection caused by fungi of the Tinea genus. They can infect any part of the body, such as the scalp, feet, groin, beard and nails, and cause a specific ring-shaped skin rash. Ringworms are dermatophytes that enter the skin’s keratinous layer and cause infection. They are ubiquitous and their infection rate depends upon the individual’s immunity status. Ringworm infection is usually more severe in immune-compromised individuals. This infection is treatable and can be avoided if proper hygiene and precautionary steps are followed.

Ways to prevent ringworm

People using public showers and locker rooms in gyms and sports facilities are prone to ringworm infection. People with suppressed immune systems also get this infection easily. Ringworm is also present in animals, and people living in close contact with infected animals are at higher risk of contracting the infection. The listed preventive measures are generally good practices to reduce the risk of ringworm infection:

• Keeping skin and scalp clean and dry
• Minimising the accumulation of sweat for longer periods, especially in the summer.
• Avoiding socks that do not absorb sweat
• Wearing breathable outfits, particularly in the summer
• Changing undergarments at least once a day
• Not sharing personal items with others, particularly people with ringworm infection
• Washing hands properly after working with animals or after playing with pets
• Showering after sports or activities involving skin contact can reduce the risk of infection
• Cleaning and clipping fingernails and toenails regularly to avoid infection
• Wearing shoes that help to circulate air

Conclusion

Ringworms are found everywhere. There are around 40 different species of fungus capable of infecting different parts of the body. Once the ringworm comes in contact with the skin, it usually takes 4-14 days to develop rashes. Localised infection is treated with topical application of anti-fungal creams and it usually takes from 4 weeks to 3 months to completely eradicate the infection. If we've got health insurance, it might help cover the costs of dealing with these pesky skin invaders.

Your stomach's lining becomes inflamed when you have gastritis. The mucosa, a soft tissue lining the gut, shields it from the daily ingress of acids, enzymes, and microorganisms. The word "gastritis" refers to post-meal bloating, nausea, and vomiting episodes. Whatever the root cause - bacterial or not - people affected by the condition may not exhibit symptoms.

Gastritis can be of two types: acute and chronic. Acute refers to inflammation that appears suddenly and goes away quickly. When supportive care is given in place of medication, acute gastritis, especially if viral, often goes away on its own. Chronic or long-term inflammation may linger for months or even years, especially if treatment is not received in time.

Ways to Prevent Gastritis

The infections that cause gastritis are communicable, but the illness itself is not. Some ways to prevent gastritis are:

• Staying away from spicy foods
• Lowering the risk of developing stress-induced gastritis, managing stressful situations
• Cutting back on alcohol
• Washing your hands frequently
• Reducing your intake of caffeine

If you have gastritis and want to get rid of it:

• You may need to make long-term lifestyle adjustments to fully recover.
• Modify how you treat other illnesses and stop using medication altogether.
• You need to follow a new treatment strategy if you've identified an underlying chronic condition.
• Reduce stress through relaxation techniques, including yoga, tai chi, and meditation.

Conclusion

It's normal to experience occasional bouts of acute gastritis, which are usually manageable at home. Lowering food intake, not getting stressed on little things, and quitting smoking all help to prevent gastritis. However, if the symptoms worsen, or if you get gastritis regularly, you should see a doctor. Ignoring the symptoms puts you at risk of developing ulcers, vitamin shortages, and anaemia. Remember, having good health insurance policy can provide peace of mind for managing your medical needs.

A shift in the climate can provide relief from the sweltering summer heat and the bitterly cold winters. But it's also a prime time to fall sick, especially due to viral infections. If a viral fever develops from an acute viral infection and is not treated promptly, it can cause serious health issues. Identifying effective preventive measures is crucial in averting the onset of viral fevers during these climate shifts. Staying vigilant about these measures is key to preventing the emergence of viral fevers.

Ways to Prevent Viral Fever

A viral fever outbreak is typically a viral infection that spreads through ingestion, bodily fluids, mosquito bites and inhalation. Here are the top few strategies to avoid contracting a viral fever:

1. A proper hand wash

Before consuming anything, we should always wash our hands thoroughly with soap and water. Moreover, we should develop the habit of washing our hands as soon as we get inside our house.

Hands come into contact with a plethora of surfaces that could harbour viruses. We can reduce the chances of contracting a viral fever by keeping our hands clean. If soap and water are not available, it's good to use a sanitiser.

2. Distance from a sick person

We run the risk of contracting a viral infection if we are in close contact with someone who is ill. Thus, to avoid contracting a viral fever, we should keep our distance from an ill person. Youngsters and the elderly should stay away from sick people because their immune systems are weakened and they are more susceptible to viral infections.

3. Avoid mosquito bites

Certain viral fevers, like dengue fever, are contracted by mosquito bites. We should use mosquito repellent and mosquito nets to avoid getting bitten by mosquitos. As soon as the sun sets, we should also close the windows and doors.

We should ensure that no area around our house has stagnant water, as this could serve as a mosquito breeding ground. Additionally, children should wear long sleeves or apply creams to ward off mosquitoes.

4. Cover nose and mouth

Viral infections are primarily acquired through airborne virus inhalation. We could easily breathe in virus-containing droplets that are released into the air when someone near us coughs or sneezes. If our mouth and nose are properly covered, we can create a barrier that can stop the virus from entering our body. An excellent way to avoid contracting a viral infection is by wearing a mask.

5. Eating hot, nutritious food

Eating warm food should be a habit to avoid getting a viral fever. As long as our food is hot, there won't be any virus transmission through it because viruses cannot survive high temperatures. We should eat wholesome foods as well to strengthen our immunity.

6. Getting proper vaccination

Timely vaccinations are necessary to avoid numerous infections. Receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, for instance, may protect us against contracting the coronavirus. Use every opportunity to get vaccinated against the flu to prevent viral fever.

7. Sufficient rest

Despite adhering to preventive measures, if infection still occurs, prioritising adequate rest remains crucial. This helps to conserve energy and promote healing by the immune system, potentially reducing the severity and duration of viral illnesses.

Conclusion

The two seasons when viral fever is most prevalent are during inclement weather and the monsoon season. Preventing a viral fever requires heeding the preventive advice previously mentioned. To help ward off the illness, consume a balanced diet in addition to lots of water. Regularly taking warm baths is an effective strategy to avoid viral fever. Exercising frequently is another way to keep our immune system strong. Additionally, having adequate health insurance coverage ensures access to timely medical care if preventive measures fall short.

Consuming food tainted with bacteria or another toxin can lead to food poisoning. Usually, the painful symptoms go away on their own after a few days, once your body has eliminated the poisoning source. You can, however, take certain steps to improve your comfort and hasten your recuperation in the interim. Hers’s how you can prevent food poisoning.

Ways to Prevent Food Poisoning

1. Wash your hands, dishes, and kitchen surfaces

Hands, dishes, and kitchen surfaces should all be properly washed. Bacteria that enter food through unwashed hands, dishes, cutting boards, utensils, or work surfaces are frequently the cause of food poisoning.

Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling food and cleaning all surfaces after preparing food can help to reduce the risk of food poisoning.

1. Store food properly

Proper storage of food is necessary to prevent food poisoning. To avoid cross-contamination, foods that require proper cooking, like packages of raw chicken or steak, should be stored separately from raw food.

Meat and dairy products should be refrigerated as soon as you bring them home from the store. Doing this lowers the risk of food-borne illnesses because the cold temperature will help slow down the growth of bacteria. Furthermore, storing food in airtight containers or wrapping it in plastic wrap helps prolong its freshness.

1. Cook Meat Properly

Food poisoning caused by bacteria can be avoided by cooking meat to an internal temperature that kills bacteria. Before you finish cooking, make sure you know the perfect temperature for your meat, and you can check it with a meat thermometer.

At higher temperatures, the amount of dangerous bacteria will decrease more. Although the surface of meat may harbour bacteria, these can be eradicated by cooking the meat to the right temperature.

1. Don't eat wild mushrooms and berries

The practice of foraging for wild mushrooms has gained popularity recently, but eating freshly picked mushrooms or even berries should be avoided unless you're searching with the assistance of a professional.

Without the use of biological tests, even scientists find it difficult to distinguish between some edible and poisonous species of mushrooms. Mushrooms can have poisonous properties that can cause severe illness or even death, and eating them without knowing for sure what they are can be risky.

1. Check Expiration dates

Expiration dates on highly perishable items, like dairy, meat, and poultry products, should be properly observed. Never use or purchase food that has passed its "sell-by" date or if it smells funny. Call the retailer to inquire about returning the item incase the bad odour doesn't hit you until you get home and have a chance to open it.

1. Minimize Restaurant Risks

Verifying a restaurant's inspection score with your state or local department before dining there can reduce your chance of contracting food poisoning.

Aim for properly cooked food; stay away from underdone hamburgers and other partially cooked foods. Additionally, find out if the restaurant uses pasteurised eggs, as raw eggs have the potential to harbour salmonella in dishes like Caesar salad.

To prevent food poisoning, store leftovers in the refrigerator as soon as possible after they are prepared.

Conclusion

Sanitation and mindful behaviour go hand in hand in the prevention of food poisoning. By ensuring that food is prepared with hygiene in mind, adhering to safe food storage practises, and maintaining the proper cooking temperatures, people can significantly reduce their risk of developing foodborne illnesses.

The importance of maintaining proper hand hygiene and being aware of food expiration dates reinforces these preventive measures even more.

In the end, by staying informed, developing healthy eating habits, and closely monitoring food safety, people can enjoy their meals without worrying about getting food poisoning.

In addition to following food safety practices, having a robust health insurance plan provides peace of mind against potential medical costs associated with foodborne illnesses.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a mental health condition wherein an individual has fearful thoughts and images in their mind that force them to perform repetitive behaviours. These behaviours interfere with daily activities and interactions, sometimes making everything a mess. It is a lifelong condition where the symptoms may come and go over time.

OCD can affect anyone; around 50% of those with OCD begin to have symptoms in childhood and adolescence. The symptoms include fear of dirt or dust, fear of making a mistake, the need for perfection in everything, or the fear of causing harm to oneself or others, frequently washing of hands, and checking things again and again.

How is OCD Treated?

Treatment of OCD involves psychotherapy and medications. We will delve into the details of both treatment options.

• Psychotherapy for Obsessive-compulsive disorder -

Psychotherapy is a treatment option wherein the affected individual will talk at length with an expert, usually a psychologist.

This technique usually helps the expert identify unhealthy emotions, behaviours, or patterns.

The most common and effective ones are -

1. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

• The therapist will help you examine and understand your thoughts, behaviour, and emotions.
• It is estimated that after a few successful sessions, your therapist can help you change harmful behaviour and stop negative emotions by replacing them with good and positive behaviour and emotions.

1. Exposure and response prevention (ERP)

• Here, the therapist will expose the person to fearful objects and images or situations where they ask you to resist the urge to perform a compulsion.
• Through this method, the therapist will help you learn that fearful thoughts are just thoughts and in no way harmful. For example, they ask you to touch things covered in dirt and then stop you from washing your hands. In this way, they teach that the fear of harm from dirt are just thoughts and not a reality.

1. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

• In this method, the therapist will help you learn and accept obsessive thoughts and behaviours simply by telling you that they are your thoughts and behaviours; thus they are powerless.
• Acceptance and commitment therapy will help you live a meaningful life despite OCD symptoms.

1. Other ways and techniques

• Apart from the above-mentioned therapies, other mindful techniques such as yoga and meditation will help you remain relaxed and stress-free while living with obsessive compulsive disorders.

• Medications for OCD

The medicines used in the treatment of OCD include serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), including tricyclic antidepressants. SSRIs are given at a higher dosage in OCD cases than those used for treating anxiety and depression. The FDA-approved SSRIS include: 

• Fluoxetine
• Fluvoxamine
• Paroxetine
• Sertraline

Remember that these medicines take up to 8 to 12 weeks to start working.

Conclusion

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a mental health condition that affects people worldwide. The treatment method involves psychotherapy and medicines. People with this condition should seek immediate and timely medical assistance as it would be easy to treat the symptoms as soon as a person starts to display disruptive behaviours. OCD is a condition that requires lifelong medical care and assistance.

Hence, to tackle such health conditions effectively and with a calm mindset, purchasing a health insurance policy will always remain a wise decision enough to purchase to help you bear any emergency health expenditure.