When we think of thyroid disorders, Dr Piyush Lodha, we often associate them with women. However, there is more to the issues than meet the eye. While the Pune-based endocrinologist says it’s true that women are more likely to be diagnosed, men are not immune. He shares, “Thyroid issues in men are less commonly recognised. They are often misdiagnosed or completely overlooked—sometimes until serious complications arise.” The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy, mood, and overall well-being. Every year, World Thyroid Day is observed on May 25 to particularly raise awareness about thyroid disorders and encourage individuals to take care of their health. The theme for 2025 is “Thyroid Disease and Artificial Intelligence” to focus on the use of AI to diagnose and treat the disorders. Unfortunately, even as there may be better awareness about thyroid issues in women, it may not be the same case in men, as not many are convinced their issues could be thyroid related. In fact, Dr Pranav A Ghody, who is the endocrinologist at Wockhardt Hospital in Mumbai Central, says thyroid dysfunction often goes unnoticed in men because symptoms can mimic other conditions or be dismissed as stress or aging. Here are thyroid issues that men could be facing: 1. Fatigue and low energyDr Piyush, who is with Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune, says one of the most commonly overlooked symptoms of thyroid dysfunction in men is persistent fatigue. He explains, “Men often attribute tiredness to stress, long work hours, or aging. However, fatigue could be a sign of hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones.” Left untreated, he says this can lead to depression, weight gain, and even heart problems. Routine blood tests, including TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and free T4 levels, can detect imbalances early. So, what is Hypothyroidism? Dr Pranav further explains, "Hypothyroidism, which is Underactive Thyroid, is when men may feel unusually tired, gain weight despite normal eating habits, or experience mood swings and depression. Low thyroid hormone levels can also affect heart health and metabolism." 2. Unexplained weight changesWhile women might quickly seek medical advice for sudden weight gain or loss, the Pune doctor says the men often dismiss it. “Unexplained weight gain may be a symptom of hypothyroidism, while weight loss without effort could indicate hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid is overactive. These changes can affect muscle mass, energy levels, and metabolism. Ignoring these signs can delay treatment and lead to long-term health complications,” he adds. On the other hand, Dr Pranav says the symptoms for Hyperthyroidism beyond unexpected weight loss also include irritability, rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating, and insomnia. If left untreated, it may lead to serious cardiac complications.3. Mood disorders and cognitive issuesMen rarely connect mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or depression with thyroid problems. However, Dr Piyush says thyroid has a direct influence on brain function and emotional stability. Hypothyroidism can result in memory problems, brain fog, and depression, while hyperthyroidism may cause anxiety, restlessness, and even panic attacks. These psychological changes are often mistaken for other mental health issues, when a simple thyroid test could provide clarity.4. Changes in sexual healthThyroid issues can have a profound impact on male reproductive health, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and even infertility. The Pune-based endocrinologist says low thyroid hormone levels can reduce testosterone production, affect sperm quality, and contribute to low sex drive. Because men are less likely to discuss sexual health openly, these symptoms often go unreported, leading to misdiagnosis or neglect.5. Hair loss and skin changesEven something as simply as hair thinning or balding in men is frequently blamed on genetics or aging but there could be more to it. But sudden or excessive hair loss, along with dry skin or brittle nails, can be a sign of thyroid imbalance. Both hypo- and hyperthyroidism can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to visible changes in appearance.Beyond these, Dr Pranav says there are others that people should take note of: Goiter (Enlarged Thyroid)Though painless, the city-based doctor says a swelling at the base of the neck could indicate iodine deficiency or thyroid dysfunction. It may cause difficulty swallowing or breathing and warrants immediate medical evaluation.Thyroid nodulesOn the other hand, lumps in the thyroid are often benign but should be monitored for cancer risk. Men are more likely to ignore these nodules until they interfere with daily functioning.Thyroid cancerLast but not the least, although rare, the city-based endocrinologist says thyroid cancer tends to be more aggressive in men. Hoarseness, persistent cough, or swelling in the neck should not be overlooked. Importance of testingIt is also why they highlight the importance of testing at such times. Dr Pranav says many thyroid conditions progress silently. He explains, “A simple blood test measuring TSH, T3, and T4 levels can catch imbalances early. Regular check-ups, especially for men with a family history or symptoms, are important. Ignoring thyroid issues can lead to severe metabolic, cardiac, or mental health problems. By staying alert to subtle signs and scheduling timely tests, men can protect their long-term health and vitality.” On the other hand, Dr Piyush reminds that thyroid disorders are manageable, especially when diagnosed early. “A delay in diagnosis can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, infertility, and severe mental health issues. Men should not hesitate to consult their doctors about subtle changes in mood, energy, weight, or physical appearance. A simple blood test can offer insights and guide treatment, potentially saving long-term health and quality of life,” he concludes.
24 May,2025 05:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentResearchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela have designed a novel semiconductor device-based biosensor that can identify breast cancer cells without the need for complicated or expensive laboratory procedures. The device ‘TFET’ (Tunnel Field Effect Transistor) is based on TCAD (Technology Computer-Aided Design) simulation results, that can effectively detect breast cancer cells. FETs are commonly used in electronics, but here they have been adapted to function as a sensitive detector of biological materials. Unlike many traditional tests, this biosensor does not need any added chemicals or labels to work. It uses the physical properties of cancer cells to detect them. Cancerous breast tissues, which hold more water and are denser than healthy tissues, interact differently with microwave radiation. These differences, known as dielectric properties, make it possible to distinguish between healthy and cancerous cells. The findings of the research published in the Microsystem Technologies journal, showed that the sensor is sensitive in detecting T47D cancer cells due to their high density and permittivity. It is also highly effective at distinguishing cancerous cells from healthy breast cells, offering improved sensitivity compared to existing technologies. “A small cavity is etched into the transistor under the gate area, and an equivalent material of biological sample of cells is placed in the cavity to check the sensitivities of the device. The sensor then reads changes in electrical signals based on the properties of the sample, essentially ‘sensing’ whether the cells are cancerous or healthy,” said Prof. Prasanna Kumar Sahu, Department of Electrical Engineering, NIT Rourkela. “Because cancer cells like T47D have a higher dielectric constant than healthy ones like MCF-10A, the sensor picks up these differences quickly and with high precision,” Sahu added. Another key feature of the developed technology is its affordability. TFET-based biosensors are affordable compared to conventional testing methods and other existing FET-based biosensors. The developed technology holds significant promise for future medical applications, resulting in low-cost, easy-to-use diagnostic devices that bring early breast cancer detection to clinics, mobile testing units, and home settings. As the next step, the research team is exploring potential collaborations for fabrication and scientific validation of the developed technology.
24 May,2025 02:32 PM IST | Rourkela | IANSAn international team led by Chinese scientists has developed revolutionary contact lenses that allow humans to see near-infrared light, a breakthrough that could transform medical imaging and visual assistance technologies. The study, published in the journal Cell on Thursday, combines visual neuroscience with rare earth elements to create transparent, wearable lenses that convert invisible infrared light into visible images, Xinhua news agency reported. The human eye only detects light with wavelengths between 400 and 700 nanometres, thus missing much of nature's information. Near-infrared light, with wavelengths between 700 and 2,500 nanometres, excels at penetrating biological tissue with minimal radiation damage. The researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China, Fudan University and the University of Massachusetts Medical School (US) engineered rare earth elements that transform three different infrared wavelengths into red, green and blue visible light. Previously, scientists in the team developed a nanomaterial that, when injected into animal retinas, enabled mammals to see near-infrared light naturally. Since retinal injections aren't practical for humans, they started to design a wearable, non-invasive alternative using soft contact lenses. The team modified the surface of the rare earth nanoparticles, enabling them to be dispersed in polymer solutions and ultimately fabricate highly transparent contact lenses, according to the study. Human volunteers wearing the lenses could identify infrared patterns, temporal codes and even distinguish three different "colours" of infrared light, essentially expanding the human visual spectrum beyond its natural limitations. The non-invasive technology has potential applications in medical imaging, information security, rescue operations and treating colour blindness. Unlike night vision goggles, the lenses, capable of enhancing vision in low-visibility conditions such as fog or dust, require no power source and provide a more natural visual experience. While still at the proof-of-concept stage, the researchers believe the technology could eventually help people with visual impairments and revolutionise how humans interact with the invisible light spectrum. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
24 May,2025 02:21 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSAustralian researchers have developed a new blood test that can rapidly diagnose rare genetic diseases in babies and children. The simple blood test, developed by researchers from the University of Melbourne and Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), eliminates the need for costly and invasive procedures. It can rapidly detect abnormalities in up to 50 per cent of all known rare genetic diseases in a matter of days. The test works by analysing the pathogenicity of thousands of gene mutations at once, potentially replacing thousands of other functional tests, said the team in the research, published in the journal Genome Medicine. "A disease is rare if it affects fewer than one in 2,000 people and there are more than 7,000 different rare diseases, most of which have a genetic origin and many of these diseases are serious and progressive," said David Stroud, Associate Professor at University of Melbourne. "If our blood test can provide clinical diagnoses for even half of the 50 per cent of patients who don't get a diagnosis through genome sequencing, that's a significant outcome as it means those patients don't have to undergo unnecessary and invasive testing such as muscle biopsies, which for a baby requires general anaesthetic and that doesn't come without risks," he added. The team benchmarked their test against an existing clinically accredited enzyme test offered by the Victorian Clinical Genetics Services at MCRI, focussing on mitochondrial diseases. These are a group of severe rare disorders that rob the body's cells of energy, causing single or multiple organ dysfunction or failure, and potentially death. The team found, comparatively, their new test is more effective in confirming a mitochondrial disease diagnosis as it's much more sensitive and accurate and can produce faster results. The researchers are now in the process of recruiting 300 patients with a range of different genetic disorders to participate in a study to investigate the broad utility of their diagnostic test. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
24 May,2025 02:13 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSDo you follow the social media trend of taping mouth while sleeping to help breathe from the nose instead of mouth? Beware, it could pose serious asphyxiation risks. Asphyxiation is a condition where oxygen is deficient in the body, often leading to impaired breathing or suffocation. When the nasal passages are blocked, breathing switches from the nose to the mouth. Mouth breathing has been linked to sleep-disordered breathing, which includes conditions ranging from snoring to obstructive sleep apnoea, where breathing stops and starts frequently during sleep. However, a recent trend amplified by social media has some people taping their mouths shut at night to treat sleep-disordered breathing by preventing mouth breathing. Mouth taping has been recommended by many social media influencers and celebrities who claim it can lead to better sleep, enhanced oral health, and anti-ageing results. “Our research shows that taping the mouth shut during sleep is dangerous, especially among those who may not be aware they have sleep apnoea,” said Dr. Brian Rotenberg, an otolaryngologist and sleep surgeon at Western University, UK. “These individuals are unknowingly making their symptoms worse and putting themselves at greater risk for serious health complications like heart disease,” he added. The researchers evaluated 10 previously published studies to evaluate the potential benefits of sealing the mouth shut -- using tape or other devices, such as chin straps -- for a total of 213 patients. The practice "can make existing sleep-disordered breathing worse by restricting airflow, putting additional stress on the respiratory system, and increasing the risk of suffocation when patients experience a nasal obstruction" the team said, in the paper, published in the journal PLOS One. Out of the 10 studies, two suggested that among a subset of people with mild obstructive sleep apnoea, mouth taping may be associated with some slight improvement in a standard measure of sleep apnoea severity. However, other studies found no evidence that mouth taping might help treat mouth breathing, sleep-disordered breathing, or sleep apnoea. Four of the 10 studies included a discussion of a potentially serious risk of asphyxiation posed by sealing the mouth shut during sleep for people whose mouth breathing is caused by serious restriction or blockage of nasal airways. Serious nasal obstruction could result from conditions such as hay fever, chronic rhinitis, deviated septum, sinonasal disease, or enlarged tonsils. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
23 May,2025 02:13 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSTaking birth control pills or combined oral contraceptives containing both oestrogen and progestin may triple the risk of cryptogenic stroke in young women, according to a study. Strokes without a known cause are called cryptogenic. It accounts for up to 40 per cent of all ischaemic strokes in young adults. Despite its prevalence, the contribution of sex-specific risk factors, such as contraceptive use, has remained underexplored. The findings add to a growing body of evidence linking hormonal contraception to vascular risk in women of reproductive age. “Our findings confirm earlier evidence linking oral contraceptives to stroke risk,” said lead author Dr. Mine Sezgin, Department of Neurology, Istanbul University. “What’s particularly notable is that the association remains strong even when accounting for other known risk factors, which suggests there may be additional mechanisms involved – possibly genetic or biological,” she added. The research included 268 women aged 18-49 years with cryptogenic ischaemic stroke (CIS) and 268 age-matched stroke-free controls across 14 centres in Europe. Of the participants, 66 patients and 38 controls were using combined combined oral contraceptives. While the researchers note that further prospective studies are needed, they advise clinicians to exercise caution when prescribing combined oral contraceptives to women with known vascular risk factors or a history of ischaemic stroke. “Our findings should prompt more careful evaluation of stroke risk in young women, particularly those with additional risk factors,” Dr. Sezgin said. Next, the researchers plan to explore biological and genetic mechanisms underlying the observed association between combined oral contraceptive use and increased stroke risk to better understand how hormonal contraceptives may independently elevate stroke risk. The findings were presented at the ongoing European Stroke Organisation Conference (ESOC) 2025 in Helsinki, Finland. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
23 May,2025 01:50 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThere is a noticeable rise in cases of loose motion and dehydration, particularly among children aged 1- 3 years. In some cases, even newborns are presenting with fever and signs of dehydration. Parents are urged to stay vigilant during this vulnerable period, say doctors, and consult the pediatrician without any delay. It is also important to follow the guidelines given by the health expert to improve the child’s well-being. Seasonal changes have led to a surge in loose motion and dehydration, not only in adults but even in children. Dr Aditya Deshmukh, internal medicine expert, Apollo Spectra Pune, explains, "There is an uptick in loose motion and dehydration cases among toddlers and newborns aged 1- 3 years due to rising temperatures, infections, and insufficient water intake. Every week, around 6-7 children in the age group 1-3 and 8-9 children aged 7-15 are visiting the OPD. To prevent loose motion and dehydration in kids, parents should ensure they drink plenty of boiled water and ORS during the hot and humid days. Maintaining hygiene, regular hand washing for kids is advised. Moreover, eating home-cooked food for kids aged 7-15. Seek timely intervention if the loose motions continue for 1-2 days."Dr Vidushi Taneja, consultant - paediatrician & neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharadi in Pune, says, “Loose motion, or diarrhea, in young children can lead to rapid fluid loss, especially when combined with vomiting or fever. Dehydration can set in quickly, making it a medical emergency if not treated promptly, and the child will require hospital admission. The rise in these conditions is due to viral or bacterial infections, poor hygiene, changes in weather, or contaminated food and water. Children have developing immune systems and are prone to infections that affect the gut." Loose stools, when frequent, can cause loss of fluids and essential electrolytes. In newborns, Dr Vidushi says even a mild fever can be dangerous as it leads to rapid dehydration, dry mouth, sunken eyes, and reduced urination. She adds, "These signs should not be ignored, and parents should seek timely intervention. Currently, 7 out of 10 children aged 1-3 are coming with loose motion, dehydration, and fever in a month. Out of 7, 1-2 may require hospital admission due to dehydration or high fever." Dr Vidushi added, “Parents should be cautious if their child has more than three episodes of loose stools in a day, especially if accompanied by signs like lethargy, dry lips, sunken eyes, or refusal to breastfeed. Fever in newborns should always be treated immediately, as their bodies can’t regulate temperature or fluid balance well. For diarrhoea, treatment includes giving oral rehydration solution (ORS), continuing breastfeeding for the child. Avoid giving anti-diarrheal medications without medical advice. Newborns showing signs of fever or decreased urine output must be brought to the hospital immediately for evaluation and hydration support. Prevention begins with washing hands before feeding, ensuring safe drinking water, avoiding food from unhygienic sources, and keeping feeding bottles and utensils clean. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months also protects newborns from many infections. Early detection and promptness are key to helping the child stay healthy.”
23 May,2025 12:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAt a time when the focus on health is more than ever in a post-Covid world, a new research has revealed a significant drop in anaemia among urban working women—driven by better preventive care, timely screenings, and improved nutrition awareness. The study conducted by Indian digital healthcare company Medibuddy, which analysed health records from 4,397 urban corporate employees, found that 32.67 per cent of women surveyed were anaemic — a significant reduction compared to the national urban average of 56.5 per cent reported by National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5, 2019–21) for women aged 15–49. Among male employees, our research shows anaemia prevalence was just 5.63 per cent, and NFHS-5 data also shows the urban average is lower of 25 per cent for men in the same age group. This improvement is attributed to factors such as rising health literacy, regular screenings, timely interventions, and expanded access to corporate wellness programs promoting balanced diets. According to the study, working women aged 40–50 emerged as the most vulnerable group, making up 26.44 per cent of all anaemic female respondents, likely due to age-related hormonal changes and higher nutritional needs. Among men, the 40–50 age group also reported the highest incidence (4.40%), suggesting age-related lifestyle and dietary factors may influence anaemia risk for both genders. On a state-wise level, Maharashtra recorded the highest number of anaemic employees (3.66 per cent of the total sample), followed by Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. However, several states, including Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, demonstrated relatively low anaemia prevalence—highlighting regional disparities and the influence of local healthcare programs and outreach efforts. Despite regional and gender gaps, the overall data suggests a positive trajectory in urban employee health in terms of anaemia. The study shows that anaemia prevalence among urban employees has dropped to just 12.14 per cent over the last five years—a significant improvement compared to over 40 per cent national average reported in NFHS-5 (2019–21). This decline reinforces the positive impact of improved health literacy and early interventions, especially through regular health check-ups, across the urban workforce. Dr Gowri Kulkarni, head of medical operations, MediBuddy, highlighting the importance of early action, said, "The reduction in anaemia prevalence among urban women is an encouraging indicator that corporate India is waking up to the importance of preventive healthcare. Increased access to regular health check-ups, workplace nutrition initiatives, and timely diagnosis has allowed many women to better manage and reverse nutrient deficiencies. However, continued efforts are needed to bridge the gap completely—especially for those in the most vulnerable age groups."
22 May,2025 06:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAcute stress can disrupt the brain's ability to manage emotions, particularly in people with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and borderline personality disorder, according to a study. Researchers from the Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Australia found that stress can temporarily impair executive functions, which are mental processes like working memory, impulse control, and flexibility, crucial for regulating emotions and making decisions under pressure, Xinhua news agency reported. "These executive functions are vital for controlling emotional responses, especially in challenging situations," said Tee-Jay Scott, from the varsity. "Our findings suggest that people with distress-related disorders may be more vulnerable to having these executive functions disrupted under stress, even when their symptoms don't meet the threshold for a formal diagnosis," Scott added. Executive functions, such as working memory (holding and using information), response inhibition (resisting impulsive actions), and cognitive flexibility (adapting to change) are key to maintaining emotional balance. The team reviewed 17 international studies and found that stress significantly affects working memory in people with depression and weakens impulse control in those with borderline personality disorder. These findings may explain why some people respond poorly to common treatments like cognitive behavioural therapy, which rely on these very cognitive functions, said Joanne Dickson, the study's co-author and a professor at ECU. "If acute stress is interfering with the mental processes that support emotion regulation, it could undermine a person's ability to benefit from these treatments, especially during periods of heightened distress," Dickson said. While the study confirms a pattern of executive function impairment under acute stress, the researchers say more research to understand individual differences and refine treatment strategies is needed. The researchers also suggested building up cognitive skills before tackling emotionally intense therapy sessions. "Understanding how stress interacts with brain function is key to improving mental health outcomes," Scott said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
22 May,2025 04:46 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThe health of adolescents is at a tipping point, with more than 46 crore adolescents globally estimated to be obese and face several health and mental disorders by 2030, according to an analysis published by the Lancet Commission on Wednesday. In the second analysis on adolescent health and well-being since 2016, the Commission estimates that by 2030, one-third of adolescents in high-income countries in Latin America, and the Middle East will be overweight, underscoring the shortcomings in combating adolescent obesity. The analysis, based on data from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease study, projects that 46.4 crore (or 464 million) adolescents globally will be overweight or obese by 2030 -- 143 million more than in 2015. There will still be over 1 billion of the world's adolescents (aged 10–24 years) living in countries where preventable and treatable health problems like HIV/AIDS, early pregnancy, unsafe sex, depression, poor nutrition and injury collectively threaten the health and well-being of adolescents. Notably, in 2030, 4.2 crore years of healthy life will be lost to mental disorders or suicide (20 lakh more than in 2015). "The health and well-being of adolescents worldwide is at a tipping point, with mixed progress observed over the past three decades,” said Commission co-chair, Professor Sarah Baird, from George Washington University in the US. "While tobacco and alcohol use has declined and participation in secondary and tertiary education has increased, overweight and obesity have risen by up to eight-fold in some countries in Africa and Asia over the past three decades, and there is a growing burden of poor adolescent mental health globally,” she added. Further, the Commission also identified several significant new threats to adolescent health such as climate change and the shift toward a more digital world. Today's adolescents are the first generation who will live their entire lives with the average annual global temperature that has consistently been 0.5 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial levels. And by 2100, 1.9 billion adolescents will live in a world that is expected to warm to around 2.8 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial times, bringing catastrophic risks to their health such as heat-related illnesses, reduction in food and water quality and availability, and a rise in mental health conditions related to climate events. The projections suggest that, without political will, policy initiatives, and financial investments, there will still be more than 1 billion adolescents living in multi-burden countries in 2030. Baird urged for increasingly "investing in the health and well-being of young people” to safeguard the “collective future”. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
22 May,2025 10:48 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSAmong the largest consumers of tea globally, Indians take their plethora of teas very seriously. Everyone has their unique preferences, with varying ingredients and brewing methods which they are most eager to share. Sharing a hot cup of aromatic chai is what many would describe as a quintessential hosting experience in India. While varieties of black tea have been traditionally been the most common, green tea and herbal infusions have steadily been making inroads through the health conscious. On International Tea Day, celebrated every year on May 21, nutrition experts delve into the benefits of regional teas and share considerations to keep in mind to boost their prowess. Exploring unique regional Indian teas and their benefitsSimilar to its bold regional cuisine, India boasts a rich tapestry of teas beyond the common black variety. “India's tea culture is extremely varied, just like its cuisine—and each tea has its unique nutritional benefits,” says Dr Simrat Kathuria, celebrity dietician and wellness coach. She outlines the health benefits of some of the most popular regional teas: Kashmiri KahwaA special name for a green tea rich with saffron and spices, Kahwa promises an aromatic experience. It aids digestion and boosts immunity. Given the warming properties of its ingredients, such as cinnamon and cardamom, this tea is very much required in the frigid cold climate of Kashmir. Hence, it gives warmth to a body on the one hand and works against inflammation on the other. Assamese black teasThey are bolder and richer in theaflavins that contribute to the heightening of heart health and stimulate the activity just a bit, leaving you feeling alert, very much so on those early office mornings. Nilgiri teaIt has a floral aroma from the southern Tamil Nadu hills and lighter notes. It is easy on the stomach, while the polyphenols give it an antioxidant effect. Due to India's extreme climatic conditions, the teas in the northern region are usually meant for warming individuals, in contrast to the lighter and hydrating teas of the south. Now, apart from brightening up our chai time, these teas stand as healers when drunk with consciousness. Indian green tea: Antioxidant power and summer integrationGreen tea is often lauded for its antioxidant properties. How do the Indian variants compare to other global green teas? “The Indian green tea varieties, especially the ones imported from Assam and Darjeeling, can surely boast of their status. Catechins are abundant in them, especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), to ward off oxidative stress, to improve metabolism, and to support fat burning. Some imported green teas sometimes could be a bit too grassy or bitter, but the Indian green tea varieties provide a smoother taste for common folks to prefer daily,” shares Kathuria. Green tea can serve as a great replacement for sugar-laden drinks in summer. The nutrition expert recommends enjoying them iced with lemon and mint or infusing them with the goodness of Tulsi or lemongrass. Kathuria further explains, “It is also important to be considerate of the time of consumption. A mid-morning sip of chilled green tea acts as a great heat buster and a hydration booster. Having your cup between meals promotes the absorption of antioxidants without any blockade toward the iron levels. Remember, consistency is what works when aiming to derive long-term benefits from tea drinking.” The nutritional benefits of traditional Indian herbal infusionsAsk any lover of tea (or your mother), and they will probably have their own mix of tea spice mix with a range of herbs, from Tulsi to cardamom. The nutritionist believes, “Herbal infusions are truly India’s ancient wellness brews. One of the best things about these teas is that they keep the flexibility of customisation going, and most of all, they are safer to consume. They contain zero caffeine and are a perfect anytime treat.” She delves into the nutritional benefits of traditional Indian herbal infusions: TulsiGiven its medicinal nature and use in Ayurveda, Tulsi tea is an example worthy of mention. It has antibacterial, adaptogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. In recent research published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine, it has even validated its reputed tranquillising effects and ability to reduce blood sugar levels. GingerThen there is ginger tea with great domestic glory. It contains gingerol, a constituent reputed for settling digestion and calming nausea. It is commonly drunk during the monsoons when the stomach flu is in full swing. CardamomCardamom tea, on the other hand, detoxifies and maintains oral health, helping to freshen breath too. What more can you add to your tea?One can really build on this by incorporating ajwain, fennel, or mulethi because of intoxication, sore throat, or a wee bit of stress: your cup becomes a functional prescriptive soother. It's old-timer wisdom that testifies sometimes grandma knew best. The impact of common additions on tea's nutritional valueTea consumed across Indian homes can be as varied as its residents. Even in the same household, someone might prefer it with milk, or a certain spice. How do these varied preparations impact your health? “Adding milk to tea alters the beverage's chemistry in surprising ways. Research shows milk proteins bind to tea polyphenols, creating new compounds with unique benefits. While this reduces some antioxidant activity, it enhances calcium absorption and creates gut-friendly peptides,” states clinical dietitian Dr Ridhima Khamsera.She suggests using jaggery instead of refined sugar to introduce iron, magnesium, and potassium. “The spices in Indian tea offer additional benefits - cardamom contains cineole that improves airflow to lungs, while ginger activates thermogenesis and supports immunity. A fascinating discovery from 2023 research shows cinnamon added during brewing versus after creates different phytochemical profiles - early addition promotes blood sugar regulation while late addition preserves respiratory-beneficial volatile oils,” reveals Khamsera. Tailored tea for regional health concernsAs science continues exploring these ancient brews, the traditional wisdom passed through generations contains profound health knowledge that modern research is only beginning to fully appreciate, believes Khamsera. “Recent studies found regular chai drinkers showed 37 per cent lower rates of age-related cognitive decline over 15 years,” she tells us emphatically. India's diverse climate has fostered distinctive tea varieties uniquely suited to address regional health challenges. She shares a few examples where local teas offer targeted wellness benefits:Nilgiri teaThe theaflavin profile of Nilgiri tea helps digestive issues common in spice-heavy food regions by stimulating gastric mucosa repair and promoting beneficial gut bacteria. Studies show it may reduce IBS symptoms by up to 47 per cent within three weeks.Darjeeling tea It helps with pollution concerns in metropolitan areas through its ability to chelate heavy metals and support liver detoxification pathways. Tulsi teaThe eugenol compounds found in Tulsi tea provide antifungal properties. This makes Tulsi tea particularly helpful for those in humid coastal areas who are often prone to fungal infections. Assamese teaThe science shows that compounds called theaflavins in Assam tea positively influence gene expression at a cellular level, specifically by increasing SIRT1. This action contributes to improved vascular health, benefiting the circulatory system.Maximising the benefits: Brewing, timing, and interactionsFor individuals looking to maximise the health benefits of Indian teas, attention can be paid to the method of brewing, the time of consumption, as well as potential interactions with other dietary components. Khamsera shares a few considerations to keep in mind while brewing your next pot of tea:Vessel of choiceThe type of vessel used for brewing can significantly impact the tea's health benefits. For instance, clay vessels are more effective at preserving catechins, key antioxidant compounds in tea, than their metal counterparts. This advantage stems from the inherent slight alkalinity of clay, which helps to protect these beneficial molecules. Meanwhile, glass vessels offer a neutral brewing environment, meaning they won't interact with the tea's compounds, making them a safe and effective option for any type of tea.Temperatures may riseThe temperature of the water significantly affects the potency of your tea. For green teas, brewing at 75 degrees Celsius helps to preserve 23 per cent more EGCG, a key beneficial compound. In contrast, black teas achieve their peak theaflavin content—another important compound—when steeped at 96 degrees Celsius for 4 minutes.Time your teaMid-afternoon (3-5 pm) is often considered an ideal time to consume tea, as it maximises the absorption of its beneficial compounds. This timing coincides with the body's natural cortisol dips, which may enhance the tea's effects. Additionally, a specific 'golden hour' for tea occurs 30 to 45 minutes after exercise, offering another prime window for benefit. Conversely, it's best to avoid drinking tea immediately after meals, as its tannins can reduce the body's absorption of iron by up to 64 per cent.Mind your medicationIt's important to be aware of potential interactions between tea and certain medications. For instance, green tea can reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners. Alternatively, black tea may enhance the efficacy of some antidepressants. Patients on these medications should consult their healthcare provider regarding tea consumption. Pairing your teaThe absorption of tea's beneficial catechins can be boosted by 68 per cent when consumed alongside Vitamin C-rich foods. However, iron-rich foods have the opposite effect, reducing catechin absorption.
21 May,2025 03:22 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalADVERTISEMENT
