Why being Indian is good for your health

How dare our own stand up comedians make fun of us? If only they could learn to look beyond our accent and population, they would discover that our national foibles are doing wonders for our wellbeing. Find the secret to nirvana in hot spices, masala chai and yoga.

The sun saves your heart!
No matter how much you complain about the heat, studies show that exposure to the sun is good for your health.

Get hot to be happy
“Capital melts as temperature rises to a record 47.6!” scream newspaper headlines when summer temperatures soar perilously. However, there is some good in it. “The sun’s rays trigger the body’s production of Vitamin D, which is vital to the health of your bones,” says Dr Navin Taneja, director at The National Skin Centre in New Delhi. The UV rays also prod the pineal gland in the brain to release “tryptamines- mood-boosting chemicals.

Don’t bare it all
Limit your sun exposure though: “Skin cancer is on the increase amongst men, especially those who work outdoors,” adds Dr Taneja. He advises using a waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher- allowing you to remain in the sun without burning 15 times longer. Even in the sea or pool on holiday, apply some under your shorts and T-shirts as wet clothing doesn’t give enough protection.

Aim for the centre
Research shows that the further you live from the equator, the higher your blood pressure is likely to be.

UV rays prod the brain to release mood-boosting chemicals.

Chai helps fight diabetes
The therapeutic property of tea is folklore. But did you know that masala chai, our signature spicy brew, helps you to get through the day without any hiccups?

Cure your hiccups
Hiccups can be public embarrassment. “An infusion of cardamom (elaichi) with mint in chai helps relieve hiccups. Also, since hiccups are often caused by spicy foods, sum up an Indian meal with a glass of cardamom-mix masala chai to get immediate relief,” says Neha Sharma, dietician at Jaipur Golden Hospital.

Become a better kisser
To finish off a happy spicy meal, have a warm cup of masala chai. The aromatic flavour in cardamom will leave your mouth fresh and kiss ready. And the power of clove will help you get over the problem of premature ejaculation. Now you know why it’s best served hot!

Cut your blood sugar
The cinnamon (dal-chini) in masala chai can help treat diabetes! “A teaspoon of cinnamon with food can reduce blood sugar levels as it promotes insulin production and is therefore given to diabetic patients,” says New Delhi-based nutritionist, Dr Sonia Kakkar.

Get rid of indigestion
Have a guest ‘who cannot digest Indian food’ experience’? “Black pepper (kali mirch) in masala chai has an antioxidant effect and promotes healthy digestion.”

A cup of warm masala chai stops premature ejaculation.

The Hindu pushup builds muscle fast
The attitude towards training in India seems to orientate towards different fitness styles in diverse regions. You can easily pick up the best virtues of each to customise your own strength and fitness training.

Get explosive: North East
Men from the North-East seem to be very good physical specimens for a variety of sports requiring top explosive strength because of a low centre of gravity. Being naturally built muscular, they seem to readily adapt to any form of training. The proximity of many North-Eastern states to China also seems to have propelled them towards martial arts training. Throw in a generous dose of MMA in your training regimen to round off the rough edges.

Lift harder: North India
People from the North such as Punjab seem to be built taller with stronger bone structures, and this can be seen from the fact that Punjabi men have always had a stronghold in strength sports such as weight-lifting, wrestling and bodybuilding. Follow a rich diet of grains and dairy like they do to provide great fuel to your body. Avoid anabolic steroids that might pump your arms but make you hide the right muscle in bed. Aim for an athletic build.

Acquire a skill: South India
Down South in Kerala, football is quite popular and the general approach to staying fit is somewhat sports-conditioning orientated. Being the birthplace of martial arts in the form of Kalarippayattu, traditional systems are used to enhance flexibility. It is a region where some of India’s top athletes and players come from. Acquire a physical skill. To perform better with your body, you need to build fitness that can be used in real life.

Court discipline: West and Central India
In Maharashtra and UP where kushti and pehalwangiri thrives, the training of men has migrated more towards size and strength, and you can still find bodybuilding gyms run by gurus and masters on the old-school models of Vyayamshalas or Akharas. These are places where tough workouts and rigorous discipline have made many a man. You cannot build a perfect muscular body without discipline. Train tough with proper planning.

Fasts make you last
Apart from helping you to lose weight, our custom of fasting on religious occasions can also help you increase your life span.

Banish heart disease
You can reduce the risk for heart diseases and diabetes with short fasts (20-36 hrs), reveals scientific research. Fasting on occasions like Mahashivaratri, Ramzaan and Ekadashi can improve the sensitivity to insulin in your body which can give you better control over your blood sugar levels. If the fast is too rigid and does not allow water intake, break it with sips of fruit juice or water.

Delay ageing
Stay younger longer by observing fasts like the Jains during Paryushan or the Christians during Lent because reduced calorie intake due to fasts like these cuts down free radical production. Studies show that this reduces oxidative damage and inflammation of cells, thus increasing longevity and delaying the onset of age-related diseases. However, avoid even short fasts if you are on medications.

Reduce risk
Short fasts can reduce the risk for heart diseases and diabetes.

Fasting smartly can help you burn flab and get lean quickly.

Spices sharpen your brain
Spices have been used in cooking for ages but their utility goes far beyond just culinary use.

Prevent cancer
Turmeric, black pepper, cardamom, cloves and a host of other spices have held fort in Indian kitchens, and their therapeutic properties are indisputable. For instance, it’s only now that the world is waking up to turmeric with its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply its paste on the face to keep acne at bay. Use it on wounds to disinfect. Drink it with milk to cure cough and cold. And researchers have discovered that an active ingredient curcurmin in turmeric also helps prevent cancer.

Stop bad breath
Use cardamom, the queen of spices, to get rid of bad breath. It is also a remedy for colic and digestive problems and well-known as a strong detoxification agent. Chewing cloves can cure your sore throat. And they have antispasmodic qualities as well. So apply clove oil to get relief from muscle spasms and improve blood circulation. Sum up the goodness with black pepper, the king of spices, to treat respiratory infections.

Remember this
A little bit of cinnamon on spicy dishes will improve your memory.

Turmeric is the world’s best natural miracle drug.

Indian food keeps you ‘up’
It’s not for nothing that the kama sutra was conceived in India. Eat Indian to rise up to the occassion, everytime.

Smell love
Glenn B Eastman, executive chef at The Leela Palace, New Delhi, says that he loves cooking with love-food. “Cinnamon,” points out the chef, “warms the flesh.” Eastman’s claim is backed by the Smell and Taste Research Foundation in Chicago, which says that the smell of cinnamon is known to increase blood flow to the penis more than any other aroma!

Get fresh
Fennel (saunf) enhances libido due to hormone-like compounds that imitate oestrogen. Pop a few seeds post meals to erect an unforgettable night. Garlic and chillies can also prop you up. Feast on garlic bread or go for garlic ‘pearls’ or capsules if your partner doesn’t like the smell. And eat chillies to feel a temporary high because the capsaican in it can mimic feelings of sexual arousal.

Aroma of cinnamon increases blood flow to the penis.

Yoga makes you wise
Yoga has become a fad globally and politically. However, the best form is still the one that was practised in India aeons ago.

Transform your life
Ashtanga yoga, vinyasa yoga, power yoga, hot yoga, kundalini yoga and nude yoga are packaged forms of the original. Most of these forms have degenerated into mere workouts. For instance, power yoga, which is very popular in the West, is a cardiovascular type of workout for weight loss. If you practise yoga and it doesn’t transform your life, then it is just a workout in yoga packaging.

Feel invisible
Yoga has its origin from “Patanjali Shastra”, which is an exhaustive treatise on yoga, filtering and consolidating the wisdom of sages from various parts of India. According to yoga experts, your body should feel invisible while doing yoga. If you can feel a joint, an organ or your head, you are not doing it right.

Family keeps you content!
Worried about stress? Relax. Research shows that Indian men are the most satisfied in the world due to their families.

Go home tonight!
Google ‘family+stress’, and you will be surprised at the sheer number of websites popping up to advise you on family-related stress. But in India, where family always comes first, research shows otherwise. A Men’s Health global survey discovered that though the Indian male was among the most stressed out in terms of jobs and living standards, a significant 46 per cent of Indian men were satisfied with their lives. And surprisingly, they attributed it to their families!

Share responsibilities
In India, the system of joint family acts as a stress management tool because members living in one family rotate household chores and responsibilities. On the other hand, working parents get help from other members for taking care of their children. Even arranged marriages have super powers. No wonder India boasts of one of the lowest divorce rates in the world.

Love forever
India boasts of one of the lowest divorce rates in the world, thanks to arranged marriages.
Originally at http://in.lifestyle.yahoo.com/why-being-indian-is-good-for-your-health.html

Living HOT

1. What happens to the body as a result of exposure to extreme heat?

People suffer heat-related illness when the body temperature control system is overloaded. The body normally cools itself by sweating. But under some conditions, sweating just is not enough. In such cases, a person body temperature rises rapidly. Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs. Several factors affect the body ability to cool itself during extremely hot weather. When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly. Other conditions that can limit the ability to regulate temperature include old age, youth (age 0-4), obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, and prescription drug use and alcohol use.

2. Who is at greatest risk for heat-related illness?

Those at greatest risk for heat-related illness include infants and children up to four years of age, people 65 years of age and older, people who are overweight, and people who are ill or on certain medications.

3. What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature: the bodys temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

4. What are the warning signs of a heat stroke?

Warning signs of heat stroke vary but may include the following:

* An extremely high body temperature (above 103F)

* Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)

* Rapid, strong pulse

* Throbbing headache

* Dizziness

* Nausea

* Confusion

* Unconsciousness

5. What should I do if I see someone with any of the warning signs of heat stroke?

If you see any of these signs, you may be dealing with a life-threatening emergency. Have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the victim. Do the following:

* Get the victim to a shady area.

* Cool the victim rapidly, using whatever methods you can. For example, immerse the victim in a tub of cool water; place the person in a cool shower; spray the victim with cool water from a garden hose; sponge the person with cool water; or if the humidity is low, wrap the victim in a cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously.

* Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102F.

* If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.

* Do not give the victim alcohol to drink.

* Get medical assistance as soon as possible.

6. What is heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, those with high blood pressure, and those working or exercising in a hot environment.

7. What are the warning signs of heat exhaustion?

The warning signs of heat exhaustion include the following:

* Heavy sweating

* Paleness

* Muscle cramps

* Tiredness

* Weakness

* Dizziness

* Headache

* Nausea or vomiting

* Fainting

The skin may be cool and moist. The pulse rate will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to heat stroke. See medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.

8. What steps can be taken to cool the body during heat exhaustion?

* Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages.

* Rest.

* Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath.

* Seek an air-conditioned environment.

* Wear lightweight clothing.

9. What are heat cramps and who is affected?

Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs that may occur in association with strenuous activity. People who sweat a lot during strenuous activity are prone to heat cramps. This sweating depletes the body salt and moisture. The low salt level in the muscles causes painful cramps. Heat cramps may also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. If you have heart problems or are on a low-sodium diet, seek medical attention for heat cramps.

10. What should I do if I have heat cramps?

If medical attention is not necessary, take the following steps:

* Stop all activity and sit quietly in a cool place.

* Drink clear juice or a sports beverage.

* Do not return to strenuous activity for a few hours after the cramps subside because further exertion may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

* Seek medical attention for heat cramps if they do not subside in 1 hour.

11. What is heat rash?

Heat rash is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather. It can occur at any age but is most common in young children. Heat rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. It is more likely to occur on the neck and upper chest, in the groin, under the breasts, and in elbow creases.

12. What is the best treatment for heat rash?

The best treatment for heat rash is to provide a cooler, less humid environment. Keep the affected area dry. Dusting powder may be used to increase comfort.

13. Can medications increase the risk of heat-related illness?

The risk for heat-related illness and death may increase among people using the following drugs: (1) psychotropics, which affect psychic function, behavior, or experience (e.g. haloperidol or chlorpromazine) ; (2) medications for Parkinson disease, because they can inhibit perspiration; (3) tranquilizers such as phenothiazines, butyrophenones, and thiozanthenes; and (4) diuretic medications or “water pills” that affect fluid balance in the body.

14. How effective are electric fans in preventing heat-related illness?

Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off. Air conditioning is the strongest protective factor against heat-related illness. Exposure to air conditioning for even a few hours a day will reduce the risk for heat-related illness. Consider visiting a shopping mall or public library for a few hours.

15. How can people protect their health when temperatures are extremely high?

Remember to keep cool and use common sense. Drink plenty of fluid, replace salts and minerals, wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen, pace yourself, stay cool indoors, schedule outdoor activities carefully, use a buddy system, monitor those at risk, and adjust to the environment.

16. How much should I drink during hot weather?

During hot weather you will need to drink more liquid than your thirst indicates. Increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level. During heavy exercise in a hot environment, drink two to four glasses (16-32 ounces) of cool fluids each hour. Avoid drinks containing alcohol because they will actually cause you to lose more fluid.

17. Should I take salt tablets during hot weather?

Do not take salt tablets unless directed by your doctor. Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body. These are necessary for your body and must be replaced. The easiest and safest way to do this is through your diet. Drink fruit juice or a sports beverage when you exercise or work in the heat.

18. What is the best clothing for hot weather or a heat wave?

Wear as little clothing as possible when you are at home. Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. In the hot sun, a wide-brimmed hat will provide shade and keep the head cool. If you must go outdoors, be sure to apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to going out and continue to reapply according to the package directions. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself and causes a loss of body fluids. It also causes pain and damages the skin.

19. What should I do if I work in a hot environment?

Pace yourself. If you are not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity. Get into a cool area or at least in the shade, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.