Tag: Human nutrition

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THE HEALTH DANGERS OF PLASTIC: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

UNDERSTANDING THE HEALTH IMPACTS OF PLASTIC: PROS AND CONS
UNDERSTANDING THE HEALTH IMPACTS OF PLASTIC: PROS AND CONS
The Health Dangers of Plastic: What You Need to Know

As you are reading this article, you may find several plastic items within your reach, your computer or phone, a pen, maybe an old food container in your kitchen.

Today, plastic is everywhere in our lives. It has become an icon of convenience culture.


IS IT SAFE?

Before we take a call on whether the plastic we are using is safe or not, it is important to understand different types of plastics.

SPI Code 1 to 7

The society of plastic industry has grouped plastics into 7 different categories & a separate code is given to each plastic, marked in a triangle symbol at the bottom of each plastic bottle.

SPI Code #1

Plastic marked with an SPI code of 1 is made with polyethylene terephthalate, which is also known as PETE.

PETE-based containers sometimes absorb odors and flavors from foods and drinks stored inside them. Items made from this plastic are commonly recycled.

Common Use

Beverage bottles, medicine jars, peanut butter jars, combs, beanbags, and rope.

Recycled PETE is used to make tote bags, carpets, fiber-fill material in winter clothing, and more.

Impression: Okay to use. Not known to leach any chemicals that are suspected of causing cancer or disrupting hormones.

SPI Code #2

The SPI code of 2 identifies plastic made with high-density polyethylene or HDPE. HDPE products are very safe and are not known to leach any chemicals into foods or drinks.

However, due to the risk of contamination from previously held substances.

Please note: it is NEVER safe to reuse an HDPE bottle as a food or drink container if it didn’t originally contain food or drink!

Common Use

Items made from this plastic include containers for milk, motor oil, shampoos and conditioners, soap bottles, detergents, and bleaches. Many personalized toys are made from this plastic as well.

Recycled HDPE is used to make plastic crates, plastic lumber, fencing, and more.

Impression: Good to use. Not known to leach any chemicals that are suspected of causing cancer or disrupting hormones.

SPI Code #3

Plastic labeled with an SPI code of 3 is made with polyvinyl chloride or PVC. PVC is not often recycled and can be harmful if ingested.

Common Use

PVC is used for all kinds of pipes and tiles, but it’s most commonly found in plumbing pipes. This kind of plastic should not come in contact with food items.

Recycled PVC is used to make flooring, mobile home skirting, and other industrial-grade items.

Impression: Avoid using it as it contains plasticizers such as DEHA or phthalates that can leach into food.

SPI Code #4

Plastic marked with an SPI code of 4 is made with low-density polyethylene or LDPE. LDPE is not commonly recycled, but it is recyclable in certain areas.

It tends to be both durable and flexible. It also is not known to release harmful chemicals into objects in contact with it, making it a safe choice for food storage.

Common Use

Plastic cling wrap, sandwich bags, squeezable bottles, and plastic grocery bags all are made from LDPE.

Recycled LDPE is used to make garbage cans, lumber, furniture, and many other products seen in and around the house.

Impression: OK to use. Not known to leach any chemicals that are suspected of causing cancer or disrupting hormones, but not as widely recycled as #1 or #2.

SPI Code #5

Consumers will find the SPI code of 5 on plastic items made with polypropylene, or PP. PP can be recycled but is not accepted for recycling as commonly as PETE or HDPE. This type of plastic is strong and can usually withstand higher temperatures.

Common Use

Among many other products, it is used to make plastic diapers, Tupperware, margarine containers, yogurt boxes, syrup bottles, prescription bottles, and some stadium cups. Plastic bottle caps often are made from PP as well.

Recycled PP is used to make ice scrapers, rakes, battery cables, and similar items that need to be durable.

Impression: OK to use. Hazardous during production, but not known to leach any chemicals that are suspected of causing cancer or disrupting hormones. Not as widely recycled as #1 and #2.

SPI Code #6

Plastic marked with an SPI code of 6 is made with polystyrene, also known as PS and most commonly known as Styrofoam. PS can be recycled, but not efficiently; recycling it takes a lot of energy, which means that few places accept it.

Common Use

Disposable coffee cups, plastic food boxes, plastic cutlery, packing foam, and packing peanuts are made from PS.

Recycled PS is used to make many different kinds of products, including insulation, license plate frames, and rulers.

Impression: Avoid using it as researchers have investigated possible health risks from traces of styrene monomer. This risk seems to be low.

SPI Code #7

The SPI code of 7 is used to designate miscellaneous types of plastic that are not defined by the other six codes.

Bisphenol A (BPA), Polycarbonate, and polylactide are included in this category. These types of plastics are difficult to recycle.

Common Use:

Polycarbonate, or PC, is used in baby bottles, large water bottles (multiple-gallon capacity), compact discs, and medical storage containers.

Recycled plastics in this category are used to make plastic lumber, among other products.

Impression: Avoid using it as Polycarbonate can release BPA into food, especially when bottles are washed for reuse. Can leach into food as the product ages.

Conclusion

Avoid recycling symbols 3, 6, and 7. While number 1 is considered safe, it is also best to avoid this plastic. Look for symbols 2, 4, and 5, as these plastics are considered to be safest.

In case of any query related to diet or weight loss book an appointment with Dt. Silky Mahajan please send us a mail at info@foodsandnutrition.in or call on 080 6741 7780 (Dial Extension: 778).

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Understanding Plastics & Its Impact on Human Health

Harmful Effects of Plastic on Health
Harmful Effects of Plastic on Health
say no to plastic image

Plastics have become an integral part of our daily lives. From packaging to household items, their presence is ubiquitous. However, the health implications of using plastics, especially in relation to food and beverages, have become a topic of concern.

In this article, we delve deep into the world of plastics, their potential health effects, and how to mitigate these risks.

Plastics & Its Impact on Human Health

BPA: A Common Culprit

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical compound found in many hard plastics and coatings of food and drink cans. Its widespread use includes:

  • Water bottles
  • Baby bottles
  • Dental fillings and devices
  • Eyeglass lenses
  • DVDs, CDs
  • Household electronics
  • Sports equipment

Health Implications of BPA Exposure

Exposure to even minimal amounts of BPA has been associated with:

  • Various cancers
  • Impaired immune function
  • Early onset of puberty
  • Obesity and diabetes
  • Hyperactivity in children

Mitigating BPA Exposure

To reduce BPA exposure:

  • Opt for BPA-Free Products. Many manufacturers now offer products without BPA.
  • Limit Use of Canned Foods. Most cans have a lining containing BPA.
  • Avoid Heating Plastics. Microwaving or dishwashing plastics can cause BPA to leach into foods.
  • Choose Alternatives. Use glass, porcelain, or stainless steel containers for hot foods and liquids.

PET: A Popular Plastic

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a widely used plastic resin. It’s favored by manufacturers for its strength, transparency, and versatility. Consumers appreciate its safety, lightweight nature, and recyclability. However, it’s essential to be aware of any manufacturer’s limitations on PET use.

Common Uses of PET

  • Water bottles
  • Food packaging

PVC: The Toxic Plastic

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), also known as vinyl, is prevalent but is the least recycled among common plastics. Its production, disposal, or exposure to high heat can release harmful byproducts.

Health Risks of PVC

Exposure to PVC can lead to:

  • Cancer
  • Birth defects and genetic changes
  • Chronic bronchitis and ulcers
  • Skin diseases
  • Vision and hearing impairment
  • Liver dysfunction

Reducing PVC Exposure

  • Avoid purchasing PVC/vinyl products.
  • Consume low-fat meat and dairy products, preferably organic, as dioxin exposure primarily comes from animal fats.

Plastics and Human Health: A Deep Dive

Toxic chemicals in plastics can lead to:

  • Neurological issues
  • Cancer
  • Birth defects
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Thyroid and cardiovascular problems

Recommendations for Safe Plastic Use

  • Avoid Heating Food in Plastic: Especially fatty foods.
  • Choose Natural Products: Opt for natural fiber clothing, bedding, and furniture.
  • Limit Plastic Use for Children: Avoid giving them plastic toys or teethers.
  • Be Cautious with Food Contamination: Toxic chemicals from plastics can lead to severe health issues, including infertility, obesity, and cancer.

Plastics and Pregnancy

Exposure to plastics, especially BPA, during pregnancy can have detrimental effects on both the mother and the unborn child. Pregnant women exposed to BPA might experience weight gain and increased insulin resistance, both risk factors for type 2 diabetes.

Detoxifying from Plastics

While complete avoidance of chemicals is challenging, certain measures can reduce exposure:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink ample water to flush out toxins.
  • Eat Healthily: Opt for organic produce.
  • Exercise Regularly: Helps in breaking down fat cells that store toxins.
  • Limit Saturated Fat Intake: Many toxic chemicals bind to fats.
  • Avoid Plastic and Nonstick Pans: Opt for glass or stainless steel.

Conclusion

While plastics offer convenience, their potential health risks cannot be ignored. By being informed and making conscious choices, we can mitigate these risks and lead healthier lives.

For further information or personalized nutrition advice, feel free to reach out to Dt. Silky Mahajan at info@foodsandnutrition.in or call 080 6741 7780 (Dial Extension: 778).

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latest buzz Sports Nutrition

The Effects of Alcohol on Athletic Performance

The Effects of Alcohol on Athletic Performance
The Effects of Alcohol on Athletic Performance
The Effects of Alcohol on Athletic Performance

Many people believe in hitting the gym during the day and then a bar at night. One feels there’s no harm in drinking a little amount of alcohol now and then.

Actually the terms “little” and “now and then” cannot even be used in that former sentence since it’s more like binge drinking every weekend!

Don’t Drink and Drive isn’t only for behind the wheel, it’s also on the field (and the gym).

First, let’s give you a list of how alcohol can affect your body, and then we can get down to the details!

Keep in mind these effects are within 48 hours of alcohol consumption, that too just after 2-3 standard drinks.

  • Decrease strength
  • Impair hand-eye coordination
  • Increase fatigue (by impacting liver function)
  • Mineral and vitamin depletion
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Impact cellular repair (since protein is affected negatively)
  • Dehydration thus affects the kidneys
  • Loss of endurance
  • Unwanted weight gain

Alcohol isn’t something that is recommended for most people; for athletes it just makes matters worse.

While you’re training or competing it’s best to stay away from alcohol! However, the best solution is to give it up completely to live a healthy lifestyle.

How Alcohol Affects Your Body

  1. So first things first. Alcohol cannot be stored as energy. This means all the alcohol in your body is converted into fat – hence the term beer belly.
  2. Alcohol’s effect on the liver can cause a problem in the production of oxygen which then interferes with the production of ATP ie a direct source of energy for the muscles.
  3. Sadly drinking alcohol before your workout hinders the circulation of glucose which is essential for energy. It has also been scientifically proven that alcohol diminishes protein synthesis which in turn stops muscle growth by preventing the repair of damaged muscles.
  4. Another thing alcohol does is increase the urge to urinate which leads to loss of electrolytes.
  5. Since alcohol is a toxin it disrupts the normal cell function.
  6. Alcohol also inhibits the absorption of essential minerals like zinc, folic acid, Vitamin B12, etc which are needed for metabolism and new cell growth (muscle cells included).
  7. The consumption of alcohol provides only empty calories which in turn displace valuable nutrients. That’s just a loss of essentials and an increase in fat!
  8. Do note, heavy drinking for a night can negatively affect brain and bodily activities for 3 whole days whereas 2 nights of consecutive heavy drinking leave an impact for 5 days! Evidently, dehydration, fatigue and headaches – commonly known as hangovers – really don’t mix well with the physical demands of our body.
  9. Alcohol disrupts your sleep cycle which in turn leads to a reduction in the ability to learn and retain new information. This could range from new skills to studying games or even applying strategies in a game.
  10. Excessive alcohol can prevent the secretion of human growth hormone which is essential for muscle growth as well as recovery.

It’s always better to prioritize a good day’s workout over a night of heavy drinking. At least the workout leaves you worn out and exhausted craving for more!

Alcohol just leaves you with a bad hangover which leads to false swears of never drinking again.

In case of any related query related to diet or weight loss book an appointment with Dt. Silky Mahajan please send us a mail at info@foodsandnutrition.in or call on 080 6741 7780 (Dial Extension: 778).

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latest buzz Sports Nutrition

The Vital Role of Hydration in Sports

The Vital Role of Hydration in Sports
The Vital Role of Hydration in Sports
The Vital Role of Hydration in Sports

Why is It Important to Stay Hydrated?

Whether you’re a serious athlete or a recreational exerciser, it’s important to make sure you get the right amount of water before, during, and after exercise.

All athletes need to drink extra fluids to replace body water lost during exercise (e.g. sweat). When it’s warm, your body perspires more to help you cool down.

Depending on the temperature, humidity, and the nature of your activity, you might not even realize how much you are perspiring. Don’t rely on thirst alone to tell you how much you need to drink.

To keep those muscles working and avoid fatigue; it’s extremely important to drink plenty of liquids before, during, and after the activity.

How Much Water Should I Drink While Exercising?

There are no exact rules for how much water to drink while exercising because everyone is different.

You need to consider factors including your sweat rate, the heat and humidity in your environment, and how long and hard you are exercising.

As a general rule, to maintain adequate hydration, drink fluids before and after the game, Drink about 250 -300 ml of fluid two hours before the activity.

That helps make sure you are well-hydrated before you ever go outdoors. Then, during the activity, try to drink 150-200 ml every 15-20 minutes to keep your muscles well-hydrated.

If you are planning an hour-long walk or gym workout, fill a water bottle with about 500 ml and take it with you.

Are Sports Drinks Important?

For most people, water is all that is needed to stay hydrated. However, if you will be exercising at a high intensity for longer than an hour, a sports drink may be helpful.

The calories, potassium, and other nutrients in sports drinks can provide energy and electrolytes to help you perform for a longer period of time.

Choose a sports drink wisely. They are often high in calories from added sugar and may contain high levels of sodium. Also, check the serving size. One bottle may contain several servings.

If you drink the entire bottle, you may need to double or triple the amounts given on the Nutrition Facts Label. Some sports drinks contain caffeine.

If you use a sports drink that contains caffeine, be careful not to get too much caffeine in your diet.

What Are the Signs of Dehydration?

Dehydration happens when you lose more fluid than you drink. When your body doesn’t have enough water, it can’t work properly.

Dehydration can range from mild to severe. Symptoms of dehydration can include the following:

  • Muscles cramps
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue 
  • Reduced mental function & concentration 
  • Reduced balance 
  • Fast heartbeat

In case of any such symptoms get medical attention immediately.

What Are Signs of Heat Illness?

Heat illness or heat-related illness is a spectrum of disorders due to environmental exposure to heat.

It includes minor conditions such as heat cramps, heat syncope, and heat exhaustion as well as the more severe condition known as heat stroke.

Heat illness can occur when the body is dehydrated and can’t cool itself effectively during exercise in hot or humid weather.

Symptoms of Health Illness

  • Confusion
  • Dark-colored urine (a sign of dehydration)
  • Dizziness
  • Fainting
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Muscle or abdominal cramps
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

How Much is Too Much Water in a Day?

This depends on your body weight and the kind of activity you are doing. Talk to your Nutritionist if you have questions about the right amount of water to drink while exercising.

In case of any related query related to sport nutrition or weight loss book an appointment with Dt. Silky Mahajan please send us a mail at info@foodsandnutrition.in or call on 080 6741 7780 (Dial Extension: 778).

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latest buzz Medical Nutrition

The Most Popular Superfoods of 2023

superfoods image
TOP 6 SUPER FOODS FOR 2016
superfood image

With the beginning of 2023, it’s time to be trending with the new ‘superfoods’ of this year! Last year people were either ‘strictly vegetarians’ or were eating gluten-free food.

Instagram was also flooded with pictures of frozen yogurts and fancy smoothies.

Even coconut water was rather in, especially for all the fitness freaks.

So Here’s Top 6 Super Foods That Should Be Considered This Year

Celery

Celery is loaded with vitamin C, vitamin K and various other antioxidants with nutritional value. It also has some tricks up its sleeve aka phytonutrients, which provide anti-inflammatory benefits!

It is also the best crunchy low-calorie veggie to eat with some dip – the healthy kind of finger food!

Green Tea 

It helps in weight loss, it’s good for your hair and skin, it’s the best replacement for tea or coffee and it even combats allergies!

This magic liquid can also boost eyesight, reduce cholesterol levels, and promote oral health while also helping one relax. Wow, so much in one cup.

Sprouts

They’re a great source of vitamin K, vitamin C, fiber and other essential nutrients. Some surveys even suggest that sprouts have therapeutic benefits and could even prevent diseases – goodbye flu!

They can be added to salads, sandwiches, soups or even snuck into pastas and stuffed chicken. Sprouts have more volume and few calories so they do help in your weight loss process.

Smoothies

They’re a great source of calcium, they’re super filling thus making them the healthiest mid-day meal and they look pretty!

Strawberry, papaya shake, banana-honey, chocolate, banana-strawberry .. you name the flavor and it could be presented to you.

It’s the new soya milk for fitness fanatics and the best way to make your kids get some calcium in their bodies.

Walnuts

Walnuts contain some rare and powerful antioxidants that have varying benefits – from cancer-fighting properties to preventing heart-related problems to a reduction in type 2 diabetes.

Just like an almond, a walnut also improves brain health and is highly recommended! Another added factor is that walnuts help in weight loss and over time help you maintain your ideal weight.

Pancakes

Pancakes are honestly underrated items on any menu. They could range from gym-fit-healthy to heavenly-chocolate-overdose. They’re the perfect breakfast – topped with maple syrup or maybe made with a banana filling.

Have you ever had ham and cheese pancakes? They’re to die for. Pancake desserts go from healthy with fruit to topped with Belgium chocolate mousse – each bite is better than the other! And the best part is they’re super easy to make at home.

In case of any related query related to healthy nutrition or weight loss book an appointment with Dt. Silky Mahajan .Please send us a mail at info@foodsandnutrition.in or call on 080 6741 7780 (Dial Extension: 778).

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latest buzz Weight Management

7 Ways to Increase Your Metabolism To Maximise Weight Loss

Boost Your Metabolism
7 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism
7 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism

We all have that one friend who could eat all the sweet and savory food in the world, yet there isn’t any visible change in their body size.

As the popular saying goes – blame the player not the game! Well, here the game is metabolism. The word metabolism refers to how much energy your body uses.

In other words, it means how many calories you burn in a day. A starting point to measure your metabolism is calculating BMR (basal metabolic rate), which measures how many calories you burn at rest.

Basically, BMR is a measure of how many calories you can lose by doing nothing. Then comes the calories you lose by actually doing some form of physical activity. You add both these digits up and there you go, that’s your metabolism.

Now just because your metabolism is slow doesn’t mean you are the victim! Someone with a fast metabolism will not lose weight by eating junk food and not exercising while someone with a slow metabolism will not gain weight after a vigorous workout.

Now that these little myths have been debunked, let’s talk about the importance of good metabolism.

Small changes towards improving your metabolism will bring about great health benefits. Also, it will help burn fat and ward off weight easily!

Here Are top 7 Pointers to Increase Your Metabolism

Get Enough Sleep

It’s essential to get 7 hours of consecutive sleep to get proper rest which is needed by the body. Lack of sleep can really slow down the rate of metabolism.

Drink Green Tea

It’s one of the easiest and fastest ways to rev up your metabolism. 3-5 cups a day can help you burn 70 calories! So it’s basically a calorie-free way to really increase your metabolism. Now isn’t that a win-win situation?

High-Intensity Training

Regular cardio raises your metabolism while you’re doing it but once you’re down it drops back down to normal.

A high-intensity workout jumpstarts the metabolism and keeps it going even after you’re done working out. That way you burn fat and calories during as well as after your workout.

 Don’t Skip Breakfast

Actually, scratch that. Make sure you have 4-5 small meals a day including breakfast! Digesting food takes energy which is basically your metabolism.

So instead of your metabolism rising just thrice a day, it raises 4-5 times a day thus increasing your BMR. The rundown on its effects, now it’s your turn to choose your side. Pro coffee or anti-coffee? 

Drink Lots of Water

Drinking water speeds up digestion and burns calories. Being dehydrated causes cravings which makes our body think you are hungry.

By drinking water regularly you keep your bodily fluids balanced and also prevent any wrong messages being sent by your body.

Lift Weights

Experts say that after you leave weights your metabolic rate stays raised for up to 48 hours after your workout! Also, that means all your fat is getting converted into muscle and muscle is way more metabolically active than fat.

Drink Coffee

Caffeine alters our fuel usage so we use fat for energy rather than glucose. Also, caffeine can increase your basal metabolic rate by around five to ten percent for two hours. It also helps break down fat. But be careful not to go overboard cause too much can cause nervousness or insomnia.

So even though our BMR depends on genetics, gender, size, sex, weight and many more factors, there are some ways to keep it in control!

It’s always beneficial to have a well-balanced metabolic rate, especially for its health benefits. But remember just like metabolism is more than energy burning, there’s more to our nutritional needs than just calorie counting!

In case of any related query related to diet or weight loss book an appointment with Dt. Silky Mahajan please send us a mail at info@foodsandnutrition.in or call on 080 6741 7780 (Dial Extension: 778).