The World Health Organization (WHO) was established on April 7 in the year 1948. Since then, April 7 is celebrated as World Health Day and it would be nice if each person on this planet pledges to contribute towards making the world a Healthier and Happier place to live in.  This day assumes greater significance since we are still coming to terms with the effects of the corona pandemic and the toll it has taken on different facets of our lives. We should be more aware and prepared for dealing with such unforeseen health setbacks in the future.

Even though 82.8 crore people are fully vaccinated in India, there is always the fear lurking of a new variants and yet another wave. According to health experts, your immunity is the only defense and remedy for diseases like corona. Since there are still restrictions on full scale outdoor activities, learning online meditation practices at home has become increasingly popular. Today, we would like to introduce to you a unique cultivation practice which is becoming very popular through online webinars and is effective in increasing immunity. Falun Dafa (or Falun Gong), is an advanced cultivation practice of mind and body.

In Falun Dafa five gentle and effective exercises are taught, but emphasis is given on cultivation of the mind or cultivation of moral character. These exercises help in opening up one’s energy channels, purifying the body, relieving stress and providing inner peace. Being a perfect practice of mind and body, people get amazing health benefits in a short span of time. Many people experience health improvements such as better sleep, less stress, increased energy, decreased irritability, improved digestion, etc. Many people have benefited from diseases like cancer, diabetes, hepatitis and heart disease. Several people have said that the practice has reduced their urge to smoke and have been able to give up tobacco and other addictions.

Effective in increasing immunity

According to research by Dr. Lili Feng, Professor of Immunology at Baylor College of Medicine, Texas, Falun Dafa is effective in increasing immunity against diseases. Dr. Lili Feng investigated the life span and function of white blood cells (neutrophils), which found that the in vitro life span of Falun Dafa practitioners was 30 times longer than in control groups and they were functioning better. It shows immunity and health benefits for some diseases.  Falun Dafa was first made public in China in May 1992 by Mr. Li Hongzhi. Today Falun Dafa is popular among more than 100 million people in more than 90 countries. But it is unfortunate that Falun Dafa is being persecuted in China since 1999, which continues till today.

Also Read: Falun Dafa increases immunity against Corona pandemic

Falun Dafa was first made public in China in May 1992 by Mr. Li Hongzhi. But the sad fact is that in China, the birthplace of Falun Dafa, this exercise and meditation practice is being repressed by the communist regime since 1999 which continues to this day. However, the practice is popular with more than 100 million people in more than 100 countries. In India also it is being practiced in all the major cities. Many people from Mumbai’s fashion and film industry are practicing Falun Dafa. In their hectic life, they have been able to achieve the goal of physical health and mental peace through this practice. Falun Dafa has also been taught in many schools, colleges, corporate offices, NGOs, police academies and prisons across the country.

Please Watch: Falun Dafa – Persecution in China and its impact on India

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We are constantly exposed to all kinds of diseases in our daily life, the main reason for which could be pollution and our busy modern urban life style. There is too little time for proper eating, relaxation or exercise. So we get tired & easily become lethargic and get mentally depressed. These are the ways the body informs that the immune system is low and you have to boost up to lead a healthy life.

The factors which improve our immunity are:

1, Rest and Relaxation

Stress and exhaustion lowers the immune system and deteriorates health. Try to get plenty of sleep as it is the only time the body is able to restore energy and recharge itself. The mind is also refreshed during sleep. If you have a hectic work schedule try catching up on your beauty sleep on weekends and rejuvenate yourself. Relax yourself by a cool bath, listening to music or a body massage. Do not think of your work problems while relaxing.

2. Good Nutrition

Balanced meals help to keep your immune system in proper condition. Fresh fruits and vegetables should comprise a large part of your daily meals. Proper digestion is very important and can minimise the over all growth of fat which are harmful for the immune system as they encourage the growth of harmful toxins in our body. Poor digestion hinders the creation of certain enzymes and chemicals which leads to ageing. Take more proteins which could include pulses, nuts, fish, and meat. Yogurt is also good for health and aids in digestion. The valuable immune boosting nutrients are present in minerals and vitamins A, C & E which are easily available in carrots lemon, garlic etc. Eat smaller meals at regular intervals, which prevent your blood sugar from dipping or rising sharply. This affects the mood, body weight and both physical and mental functions.

3. Give up addictions 

Smoking and drinking are the main addictions which are continued till old age and many people accept it as a part of life. Along with this too much of coffee and tea, that too on empty stomach loads your system with toxins and lowers your immunity. Caffeine and nicotine gives you a boost of energy but only for a short while. So instead of reaching out for a drink or a cigarette or coffee too often take a short walk, or drink cold water and splash some water on your face to boost you up.

4. Forget about the past and move on

Memories and past experiences may often make you feel bitter and you keep on blaming yourself for the mistakes made. To keep our immunity intact we must not allow such thoughts to plague our minds. If you do not get job satisfaction or you are fed up with personal relationships and experience a ‘stuck feeling’, don’t allow the frustration to grow. Be more tolerant and accept things as they are and make the best out of it. But do not break down and mirror yourself through other’s opinion. Do positive thinking and develop a positive immunity in yourself to protect yourself from all detrimental negative thoughts,

5. Live with nature

Greenery soothes the mind. So spend some time in natural environment where you can discover your own self and sort out your problems yourself. If you keep on running around doing your job meeting deadlines, taking care of your family and friends your immunity will reduce as you tire yourself out. Look at yourself; know yourself and your capabilities and creativity. Review your old hobbies and be happy in doing them. Happiness rejuvenates you and boosts up your immunity.

6.  Laughter

Bring laughter into your life to enhance your immune system. Our happy state of mind has a strong influence system. If possible join “a laughing club” which exists in your neighbourhood. Many severe illness and disease can be cured with the help of laughter as it boosts up both your body and mind and a healthy spirit develops immunity

Partha Bagchi
Director- Stammering cure center
48, 23rd Main Rd, R.K Colony
Manjunath Colony, 2nd Phase
J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru- 560078
Phone: 098860 60037

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New Delhi, 18^st Sept’ 2020: COVID-19 has hardly left anyone unaffected. Recently, UNICEF warned that an additional 6,000 children could die daily from preventable causes over the next six months as the COVID-19 pandemic has weakened the health systems, disrupting routine services. In the Rashtriya Poshan Maah, to discuss Nutrition Security and National Nutrition Programs; the Immunity Conundrum: Lesson learnt, and Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy: Linking ancient wisdom to modern science, ‘Healthcare Advocacy Group’ — HEAL Foundation in association with ICCIDD and name partner Coalition Food & Nutrition Securityorganised ‘India Immunity e-Summit 2020: Science of Balancing Food & Nutrition in Maintaining Optimal Immunity’ followed by ‘Immunity Champions of India Awards’ on September 17.

During COVID-19, the Prime Minister’s overarching scheme for Holistic Nutrition or POSHAN Abhiyaan or National Nutrition Mission, a flagship programme to improve nutritional outcomes for children, pregnant women and lactating mothers have been affected badly. This is a multi-ministerial convergence mission with a vision to address malnutrition in a targeted approach. On being asked on the current state of malnutrition amongst the children in India due to COVID-19 and the probable measure to overcome this menace, Mr Arjan De Wagt, Chief of Nutrition, UNICEF, India, while addressing ‘India Immunity e-Summit 2020 said, “As far as malnutrition in India is concerned, Lancet study last year estimated that two-thirds of the 1.04 million deaths in children under five years in India is still attributable to malnutrition. And during COVID-19, it may increase by 10-20%’’.

“COVID-19 has affected the momentum of POSHAN Abhiyan, and induced the nutrition crisis. However, in the ongoing Poshan Maah, we see the momentum is getting back, and I hope to see POSHAN Abhiyan 1.2. The govt. needs to maintain the tempo and get back on track with maximum Coverage, Continuity, Intensity and Quality (CCIQ) to fight back COVID-19. And In my opinion, there should be 12 Poshan Maah and 52 Breastfeeding Weeks in a year rather than one. Parents play the biggest role in feeding the children, so they should be educated about the importance of nutrition in boosting immunity”, added Mr Wagt.

While addressing ‘India Immunity e-Summit 2020, Mr Tarun Vij, Country Director, GAIN, said, “Still, 700 thousand children are stunted. In the COVID-19 pandemic, already vulnerable groups have been affected the most as the food supply chain got disturbed. Considering the malnutrition and stunting in India galore, all development partners should work towards food fortification. This will help make out the nutritional balance because nutrition is the key to life and if one is nutritionally deficient, one is going to die.”

Elaborating on the essence and the need to conduct such discourse on nutrition and immunity, Mr Bishow Parajuli, Representative & Country Director, WFP, India, while addressing ‘India Immunity e-Summit 2020 said, “During the COVID-19 time, some Indian states have faced crisis but at the same time the role of some states have been instrumental in tackling the COVID-19 situation such as Kerala, Orissa and UP have done a fantastic job, indeed. Especially, the UP state has been seen quite proactive in ensuring that the people receive foods even without ration cards. The CM of UP is coming forward and making sure that no one sleeps hungry. To scale up the food supply chain and to combat the food crisis, the UP Govt. is pumping INR 1200 crore.”

“Although, hunger and malnutrition are rising due to COVID-19, yet civil societies, self-help groups are coming forward to rescue the people encountered with hunger. POSHAN Abhiyan in India is fantastic, though it is affected a bit due to COVID. During mass migration, we realised hidden hunger, so we need to customise the nutrition module”,added Mr Bishow Parajuli.

Deliberating on the importance of nutrition and its relevance with optimising immunity, Dr Swadeep Srivastava, Founder HEAL Foundation, said, “Malnutrition has always been a major problem in India with over 38% of Indian children under five being stunted and over 50% of women of reproductive age are anaemic. And this momentum has increased considerably during COVID-19. This pandemic has made us learn the importance of food & nutrition and its pivotal role in maintaining optimal immunity. We need to balance our nutrition because India faces the double burden of undernutrition and obesity: the cases of overweight adults are now almost equal to the number of underweight adults. Nothing but balanced nutrition can only help us maintain the desired level of immunity.”

“The world at large is passing through the abject nutritional crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic which has resulted in debilitating of immunity. It is very important to make the people aware of the close relationship between nutrition and immunity. In such a scenario, organising ‘India Immunity e-Summit 2020 is indeed a much needed and a welcome step forward”, Dr C S Pandav, Former HoD, Community Medicine, AIIMS, Director- South Asia Region, ICCIDD.

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The world has witnessed a rapid rise in nutrition-related disorders. Scientists at EON believe that a bad diet is another form of malnutrition where the over consumption of saturated fats and refined sugar has a detrimental effect on the immune system. Our age, sex, infection history, genetics can affect our immune system and make us more prone to disease. Sadly the world has been witnessing a trend in the consumption of high fats, sugars and salts which have now led to the suppression of the immune system.

Leading to the inability of the immune system to mount an effective attack increases the risk of disease and the ability of the body to recover over chronic exposures. The immune system is designed to detect and destroy foreign invaders inside the body like bacteria and viruses. When working optimally, the immune system can prevent sickness when we’re exposed to germs. Several factors like sleep, diet, stress and hygiene can affect the immune system’s performance, and any offsets in these behaviours can cause havoc on immune function.

Factors leading to a suppressed immune system: 

Often the impact of these factors go unnoticed, but if you tend to get sick after a big project at work or during finals at school, it’s likely because your immune system has suffered due to stress, lack of sleep, binge eating or unhygienic behaviours. Overall there may be two factors leading to a suppressed immune system and today we are facing a dual burden because of the same. One is malnutrition which may be clearly due to reduced availability of food across the certain lower socio-economic strata or any underlying disease condition. Reduced food also translates to lower proteins and micronutrients –directly proportionate to increased infections and lowered immunity.

The second factor is mall nutrition where once there is an energy abundance due high fat, sugar, salt food the body is still very depleted in micronutrients which creates the entire concept of hidden hunger where despite having extra calories, there is a significant shortfall of proteins, micronutrients like zinc, selenium, iron, Magnesium which would fight infections and increase immunity. Comprehensive research reflects diet high in refined sugar, salt, high fat and refined carbohydrates could lead to an unusual activation of T cells. T cells as we all know have a direct impact on our immune system .Higher the fat in the body the lesser the T cells production and obesity is directly related to lower immune responses.

In an Indian scenario, 73% of population is protein deficient –thereby leading to sarcopenic which means we have lesser muscles or lean body mass. Most Indians consume around 60 to 70 % carbohydrates in their diet and only 8 to 12 % of protein and 20 to 25 % of fat. This ratio needs to change because our dependence on carbohydrates is extremely high and protein intake is skimmed. The low Skeletal muscle mass is directly proportionate to reduced immunity and higher rates of infections.

It may be prudent to change the portion of protein to at least 15-20% of total energy. This can be achieved easily by  incorporating additional serves of  pulses, curd, nuts, dairy, lean meats like fish and chicken whilst reduction of refined carbohydrates. Impactful correlations as reflected by Body Impedance analysis studies increase in physical activity and resistant endurance exercises also elevate. Increasing fibre and increasing the colour from various fruits and vegetables basically “Eat Your Rainbow” as we often say increases the natural nutrients and antioxidants in the diet.

The Mediterranean diet was also found to be a perfect example of how to use fruits, vegetables, nuts and healthier fats like olive oil and fish to reduce the inflammation.  High Saturated fats and trans fats can be switched healthier fats like omega 3 is important. Sources of omega 3 fats would include nuts, fish and oil seeds which should be included on a daily in the diet thereby positively reducing inflammation.

Around 70% of our immune system is located in our gut. Gut bacteria also crowd out pathogenic bacteria, prevent them from adhering to the gut lining and gaining entry, as well as producing lactic acid which helps stop harmful bacteria growing. To encourage good bacteria, eat plenty of fibrous and pre-biotic foods such as bananas, oats, brown rice, millets, flax seeds, walnuts are particularly good.

Improving gut health:

Some other studies are based on improving gut health and increasing the pre-biotic and pro-biotic composition. Typically when one is looking at pre-biotic composition the moment one increases the intake of fruits and whole cereals, millets, nuts like walnuts, seeds like flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds. Enhancing your pre-biotic levels which create a base for the probiotic bacteria to grow thereby helping in improving gut health. Scientific studies indicate a change in dietary habit  from highly refined carbohydrates, high saturated fat and trans fats to a plant-based diet which is high in fibre, whole foods, pulses, millets, nuts, oilseeds, fruits and vegetables can  initiate a positive change the environment of the gut in as less as 5-7 days.

Increase intake of trans fats is another trend that is being witnessed today due a lot of consumption of refined foods especially bakery products, street foods, order-in menus owing to which a lot of trans fats creep into ones diet and this creates a lot of inflammation which is directly linked to heart disease to diabetes and other chronic conditions. Trans fats typically contribute to a lot of insulin resistance which increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes even small amounts of trans fats can harm one’s health. Every two 2 calories from trans fats daily can increase the risk of heart disease and significantly impact inflammation so it is advisable to avoid trans fats.

Coming to saturated fats some amount of saturated fats less than 10% of the total calories consumed is allowed. However one should be careful while consuming trans fats from meat products specially marbling of the meat and skin of the chicken as all of these are completely harmful and should be deleted from the diet. In conclusion, the two major studies narrowed down to showing that just replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated fats like the vegetable fats is healthy. In an Indian scenario we could consider rice bran oil, ground nut oil and if a family is used to mustard oil or til oil they should continue to use the same this would help in reducing risk of disease along with the reduction of highly processed carbohydrates.

To counter a wrong diet EON looked at nutrition-based solutions where it found that a plant-based diet is highly anti-inflammatory. Studies show vitamins C, A, E, B6 and B12 and minerals like iron and zinc are important for the maintenance of immune function.

Maximise immune supportive nutrients:

1. Vitamin C enhances white blood cells response, increases interferon levels and improves the integrity of the mucous membranes.

2. Vitamin A plays an essential role in the health of the skin and mucosal barriers as well as enhancing white blood cell function, antibody response and thymus function.

3. Vitamin E is vital for both cell-mediated and antibody related immunity, and deficiency results in significant impairment of immune function.

4. Deficiency in B6, B12 and folic acid impairs immune function and immune response.

5. Zinc promotes destruction of foreign particles, is required for proper functioning of white blood cells and activates immune enhancing thymus hormone.

In Conclusion, the concept of a wrong diet automatically induces infection. The infection when continued in the body over a long period of time i.e. in a chronic stage along with depleted micro nutrient content in the body eventually leads to a state of inflammation and hence the concept of the DINI Axis is a is a very striking one as it connects all the dots together.

Dr.Naaznin Husein

Principal Coordinator- Nutrition and Dietetics

Esperer Onco Nutrition Private Limited (EON)

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The unprecedented COVID 19 pandemic situation created a havoc among homo sapiens. The virus already kills thousands of people and millions are affected. Globally, it has created an atmosphere of panic and fear impacting the physical and mental well-being. It is important to highlight how the world can address itself with this fatal outbreak of Corona virus disease. Individuals simply can’t fight this battle and protect themselves through sprinkling chlorine and alcohol-based sanitizers across the bodies, says WHO (World Health Organisation).

Humans require more than that to sustain in this time of uncertainty. Currently, scientists, researchers, doctors etc. working day and night to find vaccines and antiviral drugs against this virus, but no significant result till date. Meanwhile, by building the strong defence mechanism of body that is, by boosting the immunity one can make the bodies to fight against this virus.

Thymus gland responsible for providing immunity:

So, to boost the self-protective mechanism of the body, we need to be more vigilant and informed about how this defence mechanism of our body works. First, let’s discuss about the most important thymus gland of our body which is responsible for providing immunity, but this gland appears to be undervalued, rarely mentioned.

Thymus is a tiny pyramid shaped gland situated behind the sternum (chest bone), active until puberty. When ageing continues it typically atrophies and replaced by fat,but its function remains lifelong. This gland is central to the development and maturation of the lymphocytes or T-cells, a specific form of white blood cells which provides immunity to fight against foreign bodies (bacteria, viruses, etc.). Certain types of precursor cells originate in the bone marrow of bones from the stem cells which travel through the blood stream to the thymus gland where they develop and are conditioned to fulfil their unique defensive functions.

Thymus secrets the thymosin hormone, which stimulates the T cell development and production. These produced cells go through specific training and selection process, some of them that is 1-2% get selected, matured and released in the lymphatic system to perform their function of defence against foreign bodies. Rest of them die inside the thymus. Further, these released cells in the lymphatic system categorised as T-cells (Thymus cells) and B-cells (Bone marrow cells). T-cells mainly fight against foreign pathogens and further categorised into Natural killer T-cells, Helper T-cells and regulatory T-cells.

Natural killer T-cells release certain chemicals such as cytokines which helps to fight and kill viruses or other foreign bodies. Helper T-cells as the name indicates help natural killer T-cells to kill the pathogens by identifying them as harmful. And regulatory T-cells basically plays the role of homeostasis, so that T-cells kills only harmful foreign pathogens and leaves body’s own cells. Coming on to the B-cells whose central role is to produce antibodies. The job of antibodies is to identify the harmful pathogens and tag them so that natural killer can kill them.

From this we can conclude that our body’s natural defence mechanism system is so well organised with the Thymus gland playing the central role. But with ageing, thymus gland atrophied, and reduced as a fat tissue. So, gradually the release of matured T and B cells also slows down which ultimately weakens the immune system and body becomes more susceptible to disease and infections. Through this understanding of the physiology and degeneration of thymus gland we can establish a plausible correlation in the low infection rate by corona virus in children compare to adults.

How we can strengthen the defence system of the body?

Now after discussing about the role of thymus second talk is about how we can strengthen the defence system of the body. According to various studies, acidic medium is the favourable environment for the survival of pathogens. So, if the body medium is acidic, that means body is more susceptible for infections. Here, I propose a novel therapeutic approach to boost the immunity by transforming the body’s environment from acidic to alkaline.

Alkaline environment is not the feasible one for viruses to thrive, so it will curb down the infection rate and its severity. We are now aware of the vicious virus, Covid-19 (Corona virus). It affects those that have compromised immune systems and if not prepared, may potentially devastate the body. Unfortunately, immune-compromised individuals are often more vulnerable. That’s why it is important to learn how to integrate and regulate immune system. Drinking nutrient-rich water is one of the important techniques of all as seventy percent of the body constituent is water. So, alkaline water has potential to strengthen the immune system significantly.

Dr Kritika Jain 

Master of Public Health, International Laureate University, Sydney 

Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia

SALSA (Student As a Life Style Activist) Program Educator, Primary Health Care Education and Research Unit (PERU) – a collaboration between Western Sydney Local Health District and the University of Sydney.

Mob: | +61 481 764 865   

Email: drkritikajain6@gmail.com

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The world is in a chaos that none of us had even imagined. The list of unprecedented events is getting longer with every passing day. Countrywide lockdowns, tearful eyes of national leaders, crashing markets, workers trudging hundreds of kilometres in search of safety are just a few instances from that list that can give shivers to anyone. The danger posed by Covid-19 is real and so is the fear caused by it. In such desperate times, social distancing and hygiene are the new mantras of life. The entire mankind seems to be revolving around them. The resulting paranoia of this pandemic has caused us to chase ultimate standards of cleanliness in every possible way.

Scrutiny before Buying:

Once this tide of Covid-19 recedes, life will be very different from what we knew it to be and what we have lived. Some new habits developed during this crisis will stay forever and some which we had until today will fade. Forget the warm hugs with our near and dear ones, even formal gesture of shaking hands too may vanish from our daily lives. Masks, gloves, and sanitizers, which we used only occasionally may stay in our daily lives permanently. Evenings, planned to be lived with friends devouring every single roadside delicacy are already getting spent in browsing for floor cleaners and sanitizers on mobile apps.

The industry has also seen it as a golden opportunity and entire supply chain, from TV commercials to the neighbourhood grocery stores, all are teeming with a plethora of cleaning solutions. In this hunt for perfect hygiene to protect our families from the pandemic, informed by TV ads, WhatsApp forwards, and our own conscience, we are doing whatever we can. Subscribing to an entire gamut of novel sanitary products is one such endeavour. Most of such products stand by the tall claims that they make and help in keeping ourselves safe from harmful microbes. But these novel products have one more dimension that needs to be analysed carefully before giving them space in our lives.

Products can cause some side effects:

Almost each one of such products available in the market can cause some side effects. Due to intense competition and the race to connect with the target consumers, these products need to have supplementary features(like fragrance, colour, packaging etc) that differentiate them from their competitors. Many such products have succeeded to form this coveted connect with our daily routine, which appears to remain untampered in foreseeable future. But the research available on the side effects of their ingredients gives a clear sign of warning. We have already lost many lives to cancer by the time we could set in place the emission standards for telecom equipments(The Guardian, 2018). To ensure that this episode is not repeated with these chemicals, a strong vigil is required before introducing these new products in our lives.

The chemistry inside:

Undoubtedly, these easy to use products bring comfort to our lives, and thanks to the market competition, they are readily available at very reasonable prices. Convenient alternatives such as mosquito repellent coils, mats, creams, and electronic vapourizers have already kicked cumbersome mosquito nets out of many households, but we rarely care about the carcinogens and other poisonous chemicals they contain(Kohli et al, 2014). These chemicals such as Prallethrin, Cypermethrin, Diethylbenzamide etc when used in concentrated forms act as poisonous insecticides, requiring utmost precautions.

But as a part of our daily lives, even in small quantities, prolonged exposure to these chemicals may cause adverse effects on the body. We generally tend to remain ignorant of these effects owing to our hectic lifestyle. Similarly, many of us have a bias to see packaged dairy products and fruit juices as healthy alternatives, but rarely we are concerned about the flavours, preservatives, and sugars which may affect the digestive system adversely(Anand and Sati, 2017). Most of these chemicals have been introduced in our lives for merely a few decades but the rift between the scientific world and industry over their side effects is overtly evident.

Fashion or Need

At times, our shopping list contains some sanitary products just because of peer pressure, recent trends, or the TV commercials claim it to be indispensable for maintaining hygiene. But if we delve deeper into their chemical composition and their actual requirement, it won’t take us a moment to strike them off the list. The ozone generators are in fad these days. It may be the Ozone layer depletion effect, because of which many among us see Ozone as a gas beneficial to health. But the reality is entirely different. A high concentration of Ozone may cause serious damage to our respiratory system(US EPA Report).

Tall claims of fragrant floor cleaners, glass cleaners, sanitizers, vegetable washes are irrelevant, if their constituent compounds have serious repercussions when used over long terms. Few minutes of introspection is sufficient to realize that a healthy and hygienic life can be lived even without them. On the contrary, we would save our toddlers playing on the floor from harmful effects of Benzalkonium Chloride, iso Propyl Alcohol, and innumerable other volatile organic compounds(VOCs). The intensity with which cancer is prevalent these days, exposure to such novel harmful chemicals might be a dominant cause. Probably we don’t even need many such chemical-based products, but under the influence of effective marketing campaigns of national-transnational giants, many harmful chemicals manage to encroach into our life systems.

Hygiene hypothesis:

Experts in the world of medicine have hypothesized that taking precautions over a certain limit may make us more vulnerable to microbial attacks (Stiemsma et al, 2015). But there is no simple formula to determine this limit. It has to be determined with absolute dexterity, since the balance between protection from microbes and ensuring a robust immunity is a delicate one. The obsession to sanitize each and everything in the surrounding is bound to erode the immunity of any normal person, particularly for growing children(Bloomefield et al. 2006).

The frequency with which we are facing one infection after another and pandemics rocking some part of the globe almost on regular basis, it is important that we don’t end up compromising our immunity in the search of absolute hygiene. WHO has already declared antibiotic resistance crisis and an impending danger on global health, food security, and development. Given a world where new microbes are evolving at an unexpected pace, maintaining our innate immunity cannot be deemed less significant than maintaining hygiene.

What can we do?

In this era full of novel challenges, it is imperative to steer one’s vision and decisions unperturbed by impressive advertisements, fashion trends, peer pressure, and mindless consumerism. It is important to examine those chemicals which have already pilfered into our lifestyle and evaluate the extent of their possible side effects. For the families with kids, elder lies, and pregnant ladies, being vigilant about every new product is the only choice and fully examining the information given on the packaging and brochure is indispensable. The internet is a good source of certified information about many such industrial chemicals and their side effects. Consulting an expert and using these products in the right amount and in the right way is need at the moment. An eye on this other side of the coin will prepare us for the upcoming times.

Ankur Srivastava

Mob: +91-9450600839

Email: ankurs22@iimklive.com

Author Ankur Srivastava is a graduate from IIT Guwahati in Chemical Science & Technology and Master in Business Administration from IIM Kozhikode.
References:
1. www.theguardian.com/technology/2018/jul/14/mobile-phones-cancer-inconvenient-truths
2. Charu Kohli, Rajesh Kumar, G. S. Meena, M. M. Singh, Jyotiranjan Sahoo, and G. K. Ingle; Usage and Perceived Side Effects of Personal Protective Measures against Mosquitoes among Current Users in Delhi; J Parasitol Res. 2014; 2014: 628090.
3. Anand SP and Sati N: Artificial Preservatives and their harmful effects: Looking toward nature for safer alternatives. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2013: 4(7); 2496-2501. doi: 10.13040/IJPSR. 0975-8232.4(7).2496-01
4.www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/ozone-generators-are-sold-air cleaners
5. Leah T Stiemsma,1,2 Lisa A Reynolds,3 Stuart E Turvey,1,2,4 B Brett Finlay; The hygiene hypothesis: current perspectives and future therapies; ImmunoTargets and Therapy, Volume 2015:4 Pages 143—157
6. SF Bloomfield, R Stanwell-Smith, RWR Crevel, and J Pickup; Too clean, or not too clean: the Hygiene Hypothesis and home hygiene; Clin Exp Allergy. 2006 Apr; 36(4): 402–425.

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The significance of holistic health and its role in shielding us from any ailment is universal. Adding stimulus to this perception, our PM, in the course of fighting against COVID-19 pandemic and defeating it, has recently urged the people to follow a Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) protocol on ways to stay fit and enhance immunity and make it a part of their lives.

The protocols of the AYUSH Ministry document states that enhancing the body’s natural defence system (immunity) plays an important role in maintaining optimum health. We all know that preventing is good  than curing it later. While there is no medicine for COVID-19 so far, it will be wise to take preventive measures, which boost our immunity in these times. It has also advised the usage of turmeric, cumin, coriander and garlic in cooking. Jaggery, fresh lemon juice too can be helpful in the resistance of COVID-19.

Ayurveda, being one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems is based on a belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between circulatory (Vata), metabolic (Pitta) and matter (Kapha) aspects and perfect coordination between the mind, body and spirit. It aims to promote good health, not just fight disease. And we see, the same mechanism is playing out in the COVID-19 infected cases as the people recovering are due to their strong immunity and not medicine.

Ayurveda’s sweeping awareness on deterrent care derives from the notions of ‘Dinacharya’ — daily regimes and ‘Ritucharya’ — seasonal regimes, healthy diet as per one’s own body-type to maintain a healthy life. The awareness about oneself and harmony with nature can achieve stronger immunity, which has been emphasised across Ayurveda’s classical scriptures.

In the wake of the COVID-19 infection, variations in the symptoms of the people infected have been observed. It has been also found that some people have mild symptoms and some have none, while others, mostly the old and sick have developed fatal pneumonia. But the larger question is why such variations are seen among the infected people, though the infectious virus is the same. There is a simple but very strong reason behind these variations i.e., the difference in ‘immune competence’ among the people and their ability to repulse and overcome the infection. The stronger the immunity, the safer you are — the weaker the immunity, the more vulnerable you are.

Physical distancing, handwashing, using sanitisers and other preventive measures to avoid the exposure of the virus — remain crucial to avoid terrible overthrow of healthcare. However, focusing exclusively on strengthening our immune and body-repair competences can not only slow contagion but completely eradicate too — the most powerful tool to combat this pandemic. Unfortunately, this powerful tool is a serious omission. Even at the post-infection stage administration of immunity-boosting, Rasayanas will help curb the upsurge and will provide a faster cure. Strong immunity is the shield that protects us from every infection — this is what Ayurveda teaches in general.

Ayurvedic viewpoint on COVID-19:

Ayurveda defines health as a perfect balance amongst all the aspects of physiology; Dosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), Agni (13 digestive fires), Dhatu (7 body tissues), Malkriya (elimination of all types of waste) and bliss at the level of senses, mind and Atma. Ayurveda does not give much emphasis to the treatment of a disease but on enhancing patient’s ability to re-establish balance and bliss. And this is the basis of Ayurvedic treatment to deal with COVID-19. Present facts also support this. Even though there is no medicine for this viral infection, still, a big percentage of patients are recovering, and also the fact that only those with compromised immunity are unable to get rid of the infection.  This clearly shows that if Ayurveda support is given to patients, the recovery could be faster and without much damage to the system.     

When proper balance and bliss is established a very fine substance is produced called Ojas. As per Ayurveda, Ojas is one of the most important elements for maintaining and sustaining life. This helps in strengthening balance, purity in thoughts, health and positivity in feelings in every situation, better immunity, longevity, intelligence and memory. This is also known as Bala (strength) because it provides strength to the body in terms of physical, mental, immunological level and resistance to the body.

Summarily, if defence mechanism and self-repair mechanism is strengthened, and if the Ojas is maintained up to the mark, it can fight back any virus and the same mechanism of resistance will apply in the case of COVID-19 pandemic. And to make Ojas lively, we need to follow the natural lifestyle, means Ayurvedic way of living. i.e., ‘early to bed and early to rise’, physical exercise, Yoga, ‘Transcendental Meditation’ and proper diet.

 In line with the natural way of life, which is the Ayurveda way of life, it is essential that we must focus on strengthening our immune system and defence mechanism. In this direction, Ayurvedic recommendations, which include diet, daily routine, various Rasayanas, medicines, mental technique, Yogasanas, Pranayama, will be very helpful. It also focusses on the individual rather than on the disease. This is how the immune system, defence mechanism and self-repair mechanism is strengthened.

Understandably, if a person’s defence mechanism is strengthened, no external aggression like Coronavirus or any disease will dare to attack. However, in case of attack, it will subside soon without threatening life as is seen in COVID-19 pandemic, wherein, out of  infected people, many have been recovered. So, the takeaway is — the recovered people have strong defence mechanism and immunity — the unfailing armour against any disease.

Mr. Anand Shrivastava-Chairman

Maharishi Ayurveda,New Delhi  

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Carotenoids are the plant pigments that give deep yellow, orange and red colours to fruits and vegetables such as carrots, pumpkins, tomatoes, apricots and papaya etc. There are different types of major carotenoids like alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, cryptoxanthin and lycopene. Among these, beta-carotene, the yellow-orange pigment in cantaloupe (melons), carrots, mango and squash is the most common carotenoid.

Carotenoids from the diet are stored in the fatty tissues of animals. In the human diet, absorption of carotenoids is improved when consumed along with fat in a meal, fat can helps for absorption of carotenoids.   For example, vegetables those containing carotenoids should be seasoned or cooked with vegetable oil, this will improve bioavailability (rate of absorption) of carotenoids.

Among the different types of carotenoids, beta-carotene is act as precursor of vitamin A (or provitamin A) which means, it convert into vitamin A in the body and found in all yellow-orange pigment containing foods. The utilization efficiency of beta-carotene is generally considered to be 1/6^th for humans. The recommended intake of beta-carotene is 2-4 mg/d.

Beta-carotene (mg/100g edible portion) content of common foods-

Apple -0.1, Apricots – 1.6 ,Asparagus – 0.5, Beans – 0.4Broccoli – 1.5, Carrots – 6.6, Cherries – 0.6, Mango – 2.9, Sweet potato – 5.9, Tomatoes – 0.5, Water melon – 0.4.

Health benefits :

1. Among carotenoids, beta-carotene (provitamin A) helps to boost immunity because of high vitamin A activity.

2. Carotenoids are act as anti-oxidants, improve cognition in the humans.

3. Many epidemiologic studies indicate that high intakes of carotenoid containing fruits and vegetables are associated with decreased risk of cancer and heart related disorders.

4. These carotenoids fight against many cancer disorders like breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer further help to prevent damages.

5. Strenuous exercises may raise the oxygen consumption with an increase in production of free radicals. In that case, eating carotenoid rich foods may protect tissues against oxidative stress.

6. Skin health – due to distribution of carotenoids in skin, they are able to absorb light from the UV rays, which helps reduce sun burn and skin aging.

7. Due to antioxidant activity carotenoids prevent damage lead from premature aging, atherosclerosis, cataracts and age related macular (related to eye) degeneration.

8. Vision – for normal visual function carotenoids are needed.

9. These also improve the immune function in elderly and non-smoking people.

 With such benefits from carotenoids, the Government has decided and implemented to fortify foods with directly as Vitamin A in order to supplement and improve each individual’s health. Some of the common Vitamin A fortified foods are – golden rice (rice fortified with beta-carotene), milk, wheat flour, edible oil, bread and baby foods.  

Chaitanya R. Itagi- Assistant Professor

Dept. of Food Science and Nutrition,

College of Agriculture, Vijayapur, Karnataka.

Email: itagicr@uasd.in or itagichaitanya@gmail.com 

Mob:  9449970666  

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Falun Dafa (or Falun Gong) meditation is a high level spiritual practice of mind and body. Ever since olden times this practice has been agreed down from a solo master to a sole disciple. The practice teaches how to cultivate the heart towards Truthfulness, Compassion and Tolerance. Falun Dafa contains 5 mild and meditative workouts which help to open one’s energy channels swiftly, cleanse the body, dismiss stress and also give inner peace. Being a widespread practice of mind and body, individuals get wonderful health benefits in a less time.

According to research by According to Dr. Lili Feng, Professor of Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas, Falun Dafa meditation is beneficial in growing immunity to fight against diseases. She has observed the life span and function of white blood cells, particularly neutrophils. Her primary outcomes disclosed that in-vitro life cycle of neutrophils of Falun Dafa practitioners was thirty times lengthier than that of control groups and they also worked well. This shows improved immunity and health benefits for some diseases.

Falun Dafa was introduced to public by Mr. Li Hongzhi in China in May 1992. Today it is being practiced by more than 100 million people in over 114 countries. Due to its health benefits and spiritual teachings, Falun Dafa became so popular in China that by 1999, 7 to 10 Crore people started practicing it. The membership of the Chinese Communist Party was 6 Crore at that time. Being of atheist ideology, Chinese Communist Party considered rising acceptance of Falun Dafa as contest to its power and banned it in the year 1999, 20th July and started heartless persecution which is followed till today.

For last three months, Wuhan has been the epicenter of the Corona virus epidemic where about 81,000 cases have been reported, of which around 3200 people have died. These are official statistics of Chinese government, but according to trustworthy sources the real death toll looks to be ten times more. In such tough situations, Falun Dafa practitioners at Wuhan have remained unaffected from the pandemic because of their greater immunity but reached out to the people of Wuhan in distress, spreading message of health benefits of Falun Dafa and its healing power, while risking their own lives.

To prevent the spread of the epidemic in India, the government has advised people to stay at home.Why not use this spare time in learning Falun Dafa practice and increase your immunity.You can read the health benefits of Falun Dafa in the book, “Life and Hope Renewed – The Healing Power of Falun Dafa” at http://en.minghui.org/html/articles/2005/4/3/59184.html. Falun Dafa is taught in almost all major cities in India.

Rekha R.P-Coordinator

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80% Indian moms are concerned about immunity amidst Corona virus outbreak. They are too concerned about the health and well-being of their children as well as the rest of their family.

The Novel Corona virus has wreaked havoc across the world, having recently been declared a pandemic by the WHO. While there is fear, confusion and panic, people around the world are trying to take the right precaution. To understand this better from the perspective of Indian moms, recently surveyed over 500 moms across the country and the findings revealed that 86% of moms are very concerned about the Corona virus.

Given the fear of contracting the infection, 7/10 moms are avoiding public gatherings while 5/10 moms stated that they are avoiding travel. However, only 50% of moms are using masks as a precautionary measure. The survey also found that only 1 out of 10 moms describe their overall health as excellent.

While 8 out of 10 moms are very concerned about their overall health, eating habits and immunity, almost 70% of moms don’t specifically do anything to boost their immunity. Additionally, 1 out of 5 moms stated that they don’t exercise even once a week. Moreover, 60% of moms don’t consult a doctor immediately upon feeling unwell, but instead wait for the symptoms to get worse before doing so. 6 out of 10 moms stated that they just take medicines that they have at home.

Speaking on the survey and insights gathered, Mr. Vishal Gupta, Co-Founder & CEO Momspresso.com, said, “This survey reflected a very reassuring trend, that most mums are aware of precautions needed during a time like this when the corona virus is spreading at a rapid pace and scale and many are implementing them in their daily lives. We know that Moms are always concerned about the health and wellbeing of their children as well as the rest of their family, ensuring they eat right, sleep well and engage in healthy habits. However, data from this survey has also shown that amidst this care for others in their life, they often tend to neglect their own health and wellbeing – probably without even realising it.”

“It was disturbing to see that most mums do not take their health seriously, even when they start feeling unwell. They self medicate and only see a doctor when the symptoms worsen. No wonder only 1 in 10 moms describes her overall health as excellent. Through our survey, we want to encourage mothers to turn their attention to their own health and adopt healthier habits as a routine part of their lives, even when there isn’t a deadly virus going around.” he added.

Also watch our video: How building an immunity is essential to fight against corona?

Overall health & eating habits:

1. Only 1 out of 10 moms describe there overall health as Excellent
2. 8 out of 10 moms are concerned about their overall health and eating habits
3. 1 out of 5 moms don’t even exercise even once in a week
4. 6/10 Moms do not even go for a full health check up every year

Immunity & managing illnesses:

1. 8 out of 10 moms are very concerned about their Immunity.
2. However, almost 70% of moms don’t do anything specifically to boost their immunity.
3. Almost 60% of moms don’t go to doctor immediately if she is not feeling well and wait for the symptoms to get
worse.
4. 6 out of 10 moms said they just take medicines that are available at home.

Also Read: IMMUNITY BOOSTING FOODS TO HELP KEEP SAFE DURING PANDEMIC

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