Nachni Barfi

 

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• Chef: Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi
  Restaurant: Geniune Broaster Chicken
• Recipe Servings: 4
  Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

This festive season make this chocolaty barfi for all your guests at home!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of Nachni flour (ragi flour)        
• 1 cup of Grated jaggery        
• 1/2 cup of Khoya         
• 3 Tbsp of Ghee         
• 2 Tbsp of Chopped assorted nuts       
• 4 Tbsp of Peanut butter        
• Chocolate vermicelli for garnish
• Almonds for garnish

Method

1. 
   1. Heat Ghee in a kadai; add chopped nuts and sauté for 1 minute.
2. Add nachni flour (ragi flour) and roast it until cook for 8-10 minutes.
3. Now add grated jaggery and stir well until the jaggery is completely melted
4. Add khoya, peanut butter and keep stirring for a while
5. Remove the mixture on a plate, evenly spread it and refrigerate it.
6. Remove from refrigerator and garnish it with chopped almonds, chocolate vermicelli.
7. Cut it into desired shape and serve.

Union Budget 2017: What The Restaurant Industry Expects From Finance Minister Arun Jaitley

Sparshita Saxena , NDTV  |  Updated: January 31, 2017 17:50 IST

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Highlights

• The Union Budget to be presented in the Parliament tomorrow
• Some of the biggest names in the food space have issues to be redressed
• Here's a look at the general sentiment in the restaurant industry

The Union Budget which is to be presented in the Parliament on 1st February 2017 has stirred a wave of anxiety and expectations all across the country. Every year, the budget sets the heart racing and makes or breaks many expectations. One of the biggest highlights of the Union Budget 2017 would be the relevant measures and reforms to outdo the effects of demonetization on the economy.As far as the food and restaurant industry goes, some of the biggest names in the market have many pressing issues that they are hoping to be redressed in this budget. Let's take a look at what some of the leading restaurateurs and chefs are anticipating from the Union Budget 2017.


Tax Relaxation


Riyaaz Amlani, the CEO of Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt Ltd and also the President of the National Restaurant Association of India finds the current tax regime cumbersome for the restaurant industry. "If you give it a thought, this industry generates the maximum employment, whether structured or unstructured. There is no incentive given to the industry as such, whereas the tax levied is so heavy that a regular person ends up paying close to a whopping 30% tax over and above the total bill. This is bizzare! No where in the world do people pay so much for eating out. I hope the Union Budget 2017 ushers in good measures for the industry. We are expecting to get more clarity on the GST," shared Mr. Amlani.


"I would like to see the government support the food and beverage industry by reducing taxes and relaxing the regime a bit," noted restaurateur AD Singh.

Industry Incentives


"Our food industry churns out massive revenues and generates huge employment. Shouldn't we then be entitled to some kind of incentives? On the contrary, there are so many hurdles and roadblocks that discourage people from investing in the industry or starting something new. If startups are entitled to receive support and relevant benefits, then why is a new restaurant or a new concept not encouraged or supported by the government?" exclaimed Sabyasachi Gorai of Lavaash, New Delhi.


"There are many things that are crippling the restaurant industry. Laws are so stringent that it dampens the enthusiasm for starters and investors. I would be happy to see the government make conscious amends and roll out effective measures for the benefit and growth of the industry. We add a great deal to the economic growth of the country, attract tourism, and constantly weave a vibrant socio-cultural fabric of the country - we need active support and fillip," said Chef Abhijit Saha who owns several restaurants in Bangalore.


Goods and Services Tax (GST)


"Honestly, I am waiting for the GST to come into effect. We really need a single taxation method which would cover everything. I would want GST to include alcohol as well. It will make things much easier and seamless to function. I think GST will bring in more transparency in the system. Tax on basic products and commodities should not increase as it will lead to an increase in the overall cost of input," opined Zorawar Kalra, Founder and Managing Director of Massive Restaurants.

"GST rates must be common across the states. Right now different states have different tax rates which makes it very impartial. Alcohol is taxed differently. Service tax is different all over. I think GST policies should keep in mind all of this and bring everything under one umbrella. GST should bring some sanity to the system," added Chef Gorai.


Alcohol Matters


Alcohol forms a crucial part of the dining and eating out experience. Separate alcohol policies and tax structures have left both consumers and restaurateurs disgruntled.

"The overall licensing and taxation policy is saddening when it comes to the industry. Alcohol is a completely different ball game altogether. We could really use some amount of relaxation," shares Chef Abhijit.

"There are so many restrictions when it comes to alcohol. Licensing is an issue, import is another and then there is the burden of the tax. The Union budget 2017 must redress all of these issues," noted Manish Mehrotra of Indian Accent.


Concluding Thoughts


"Nothing has been devised or planned by the government for the betterment of this industry. No measures, no policies - only stricter laws and a choking tax regime. I really want to see what the budget has in store for us this year," concluded Chef Saby.


"Every year our costs and rentals are going up. We are on the receiving end. We are hit constantly. Let's see what GST can get us," noted Chef Abhijit.


"I am more concerned about the import policy. I would like to see some amends there. Licensing should be made easy and hassle-free," Manish Mehrotra.

It is being speculated that the budget may initiate scrapping sugar cess and hike tax rates on fast food and sugary beverages. However, the true facts will only be unveiled on 1st February 2017 by the Finance Minister, Mr. Arun Jaitley. GST is slated to be rolled out later this year with at a speculated rate of 18%.

Happy Basant Panchami 2017: Why We Celebrate This Festival

NDTV Food  |  Updated: January 31, 2017 15:18 IST

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Highlights

• Basant Panchami celebrates the onset of spring
• Basant Panchami 2017 falls on 1st February
• On this day, Goddess Saraswati is worshiped

Basant Panchami is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the onset of spring. Basant Panchami 2017 falls on 1st February. In the Punjab region, it is celebrated as the festival of kites on the fifth day of spring. On this day, Goddess Saraswati is worshiped. It is also known as Shree Panchami. Wearing yellow clothes and cooking bright coloured foods like Meethe Chawal and Boondi Ladoo are the highlights of the festival. If you didn't know, here's all the information about why basant panchami is celebrated and how.

Fresh, gentle breeze replaces the haunting cold and there's a touch of rejuvenation in the air. Maidens and ladies perfectly complement the blossoming landscapes in their 50 shades of yellow dresses. From the freely flowing bright yellow fields to the humble pottery and plants, everything seems to be bidding goodbye to the winter blues and welcoming the bountiful spring. Here's a list of 10 things you didn't know about this beautiful spring festival:

1.  "When winter comes, can spring be far behind?" asked Shakespeare. Basant Panchami marks the beginning of spring and falls on the fifth day of Maagh each year. The word 'Basant' means spring and 'Panchmi' denotes the fifth day on which the festival falls.

2. Spring means pleasant weather, free from the scorching heat, the cold bites or dodgy rains. It is therefore crowned as the king of all seasons.

3. Basant Panchami observes the birth of Saraswati, the Goddess of knowledge, education, art, culture and music.

4. According to custom, temples dedicated to Goddess Saraswati are filled with sacred offerings a day before Basant Panchami, with the belief that the Goddess would join in the celebrations by attending the traditional feast the following morning.
 

5. This festival is also considered very auspicious as its meant to usher new beginnings in the life of a child. Traditionally children were taught to write their first word on this day. It is considered a blessed beginning of learning with the Goddess of Knowledge worshiped as the presiding deity on this day.

6. The scintillating yellow colour holds great importance on this day. The color of Basant (Spring) is yellow, also known as the 'Basanti' colour. It symbolizes prosperity, light, energy and optimism. This is the reason why people wear yellow clothes and make traditional delicacies in yellow hues.

7. According to folklore, snakes are fed with milk on Basant Panchami to bring wealth and prosperity in the coming days.

8. Indian festivals are incomplete without traditional sweets.  Some popular sweets which are relished during Basant Panchami are:

From Bengal, the land of Mishti: Here Goddess Saraswati is offered boondi ke ladoo and sweet rice.

From Bihar, the land of festivals:  Here Goddess Saraswati is offered with different varieties of sweets like Kheer, Malpua and Boondi.

From Uttar Pradesh, the land of exotic food: On the day of Basant Panchami in Uttar Pradesh, devotees offer prayers to Lord Krishna. The revered sweet which is offered to Lord Krishna here is kesari bhaat.

From Punjab, the land of five rivers: Like other states Basant Panchami is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Punjab. Traditionally, Meethe Chawal, Maake ki Roti and Sarso Ka Saag are eaten.

9. On the day of Basant Panchami a log with a figure of Holika is placed in a public place. During the next 40 days, devotees add twigs and other flammable material to form a pyre which is lit on Holi.

10. Kite flying, the popular sport of India, is associated with the festival of Basant Panchami. Especially in Punjab, the kite flying tradition has been given great importance.

7 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency People Often Ignore

NDTV Food  |  Updated: January 31, 2017 23:04 IST

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Highlights

• Vitamin D helps your bones grow and stay strong
• Vitamin D is primarily produced when the suns ray's strike the skin
• It is naturally present in like mushrooms, soy milk & eggs

Once considered an ageing problem, vitamin deficiencies have now become very common amongst all ages - especially teenagers and adolescents. It is during the growing years that one needs an extra dose of healthy vitamins and nutrients but instead of loading up on a balanced diet most people seem to be depending on supplements to meet various vitamin deficiencies that perhaps their diet cannot fulfil. Our sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits and need for convenience are all to blame.

Vitamin D is one such essential nutrient that helps your bones grow and stay strong. More importantly, Vitamin D is required for the absorption of calcium by the body.  Vitamin D is primarily produced in your body when the sun’s ultraviolet rays strike the skin. Simply put, it is mostly obtained from sun exposure but it is also naturally present in some foods like mushrooms, soy milk, eggs and oily fish.
 

What puts you at risk?

Besides inadequate sun exposure and an unhealthy diet, Vitamin D deficiency can occur for a number of reasons.

• People with dark skin may not be able to produce sufficient Vitamin D in response to sunlight exposure.
• Your kidneys may not be able to convert Vitamin D into usable form.
• Certain gut issues like Celiac Disease or Crohn's Disease may prevent your intestines from absorbing the Vitamin D produced in the body.
• Being obese or overweight puts you at a higher risk as Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin.

 Without sufficient Vitamin D, your bones can become thin and brittle. In severe cases, a Vitamin D deficiency may lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.

If you’re not sure, here are seven signs and symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency. For some people, the symptoms may be very subtle, yet if you have been experiencing any of these regularly it’s best to consult your doctor at the earliest.

1. Feeling low and moody:; The activity of the brain hormone, serotonin, increases with sun exposure. Studies have shown the low levels of Vitamin d in the body affects the amount of feel-good chemicals in the brain that can make you moody and irritable most of the times.

2. Chronic Pain: You experience regular aches, muscle weakness and joint pains.  People with low levels of Vitamin D are more sensitive to pain.

3. Constant fatigue: You feel tired and fatigued all the time even after being well rested. You may also feel lethargic and anxious.  Adequate amount of Vitamin D in the body is known to boost our energy levels and increase muscle functions

4. Sweaty head: One of the most common signs of a Vitamin D deficiency is head sweating. In case of new-borns, a sweaty forehead is usually the first sign of Vitamin D deficiency.

5. Daytime sleepiness:  A lot of studies indicate that people with low levels of Vitamin D are at a higher risk of experiencing daytime sleepiness and other sleep disorders.

6. Frequent flu attacks and respiratory infections: You may be prone to more allergies and infections since Vitamin D plays an important role in reducing inflammation and regulating the functions of the cells in your immune system.

7. Gum disease: Bleeding, reddening and swelling of the gums may also indicate low levels of Vitamin D.

Three Essential Nutrients for Every Pregnant Woman

Dr. Tamanna Narang, Neutritionist, Alternacare  |  Updated: January 31, 2017 23:04 IST

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Highlights

• The best thing you can do for your baby is to eat a healthy diet
• The amount of protein required by your body increases during pregnancy
• Iron can prevent anemia and infections; it can support your babys growth

Remember the food you eat is the main source of nutrition for your baby and can help your baby’s growth and development. Hence, one of the best things that you can do for your baby is to eat a healthy diet during pregnancy. There are three nutrients that every pregnant woman must include in her diet on a daily basis. Here’s a break-up:

Protein

The amount of protein required by your body increases during pregnancy to help develop the baby and the placenta (the organ which connects the developing baby with the wall of the uterus). Protein also helps fight against nausea and the fatigue that pregnant women feel due to anemia. 90% of pregnant women in India suffer from protein deficiency. Check with your nutritionist about your protein intake or deficiency. If your diet is deficient in protein, ask your doctor for protein supplementation.

How much Protein do you need during pregnancy: Your individual protein requirement depends on your body weight. Generally, you need 0.5 g/day of additional protein intake in the first trimester.

Good food sources of protein: Seafood, lean meat, poultry, milk & milk products, eggs, beans, peas, soy products, unsalted nuts & seeds are known to be good sources of protein.
 

Iron

Iron can prevent anemia and infections; it can support your baby’s growth and brain development. ​Some women may find Iron-rich foods difficult to absorb. Here’s a helpful tip - add a Vitamin C-rich fruit with or just after your meal for better absorption of Iron. Avoiding tea 1 hour before and after having an iron-rich meal also helps the body to absorb this nutrient better.

How much Iron do you need: During the entire pregnancy period, an additional 760 mg of iron is needed.

Good food sources of iron: Lean meat, skinless chicken, fish, turkey and well cooked eggs. Vegetarian sources of iron include pulses, legumes, nuts, green leafy vegetables and cereals.
 

Calcium

Pregnant women need all the calcium they can get and it is important to understand why. Your baby’s bones are developed through the calcium in your blood. The baby’s heart, nerves and muscles depend on calcium for growth. If the calcium intake is not enough, even your bone health is at risk.While calcium is best obtained through food sources, a calcium supplement could help you in meeting nutrition needs during pregnancy. Sufficient vitamin D intake also helps in calcium absorption.

How much do you need: The recommended intake of calcium during pregnancy is 200 mg/day

Good food sources of calcium: Low fat dairy products like skimmed milk, low-fat cheese and yogurt. Fish with edible bones like sardines are high in calcium and so is tofu - a vegetable protein made from soybeans. Breakfast cereals, almonds, oranges, dried-fruits (e.g. apricots) and green leafy vegetables are good sources of calcium too.

Make sure you eat well, keep yourself hydrated and get adequate rest. Have a healthy & happy pregnancy.
 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

How to Make a Perfect and Flavourful Cup of Green Tea

Tanu Ganguly, NDTV  |  Updated: January 31, 2017 23:04 IST

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Highlights

• Green tea originated in China but is popular all over
• Green tea is derived from Camellia sinensis leaves
• The first step is to get the quantity of green tea leaves right

Green tea is one of the most popular beverages around the world. It originated in China but has now captured the imagination of millions across the world due to its many health benefits. Most of us like sipping on some warm green tea, but often what you make may not taste all that great. If that happens to you, well, chances are you are not doing a good job brewing it. Green tea leaves are delicate and need to be brewed the right way to get the best flavours out.

Green tea is derived from Camellia sinensis leaves and does not undergo any oxidation process; the same process that is used to make Black Tea and Oolong Tea. As a result, green tea is packed with anti-oxidants and make it a much healthier drink to sip on. These days, rows and rows of shelf-space is dedicated to many varieties and flavours of green tea. There’s lots to pick from – Chamomile, Tulsi, Honey, Peppermint, Jasmine and more. But before you head to the superstore, it will be a good idea to get your basics right.

How to make a perfect cup of green tea?
Making the perfect cup of green tea involves just a few steps. It is easy but you need get the basics right. Unlike our everyday chai, green tea is never made with milk. You could add a few drops of honey for flavor, though.

How much green tea should you use per cup?
The first point to think about is the quantity of green tea that you need to use. The thumb rule is 1 teaspoon of tea leaves to 1 cup of water. If you are using teabags, then 1 teabag per brewed cup is fine.

How long should you steep the tea leaves in the cup?
Never let the tea leaves steep in the hot water for very long. 2-3 minutes, usually works just fine.
For lighter concoctions you could reduce the time even further. However, anything more than 3 minutes will give you a bitter-tasting cup of tea.

What kind of strainers can you use? 
If you want to use tea-leaves and not teabags, then there are several options available in the market these days. You could use a regular looking strainer – similar to the one used for straining ‘chai’ – just make sure the mesh is really fine.  A mesh with large holes will make the smaller pieces of leaves pass through too. You also have the option of using a strainer that you could dip into the cup. This is especially good to carry to work.
 

 

How to make Green tea: 5 Simple Steps

1. Take a cup of water and heat it till it is about to boil.

2. Take a strainer and measure and put 1 teaspoon of green tea leaves in it.

3. Pour hot water into the cup through the strainer. Pour till the bottom part of the strainer is immersed in hot water. If you are using a teabag, then dip tea bag directly into the cup of water.
 

4. Take the strainer away (or the teabag) in 2-3 minutes and take a sip to check if this is how strong you would like it to be. If you are making this for someone else, then use a spoon to check the flavor!

5. Steep again for 30 seconds if you feel the tea needs to be stronger.

Follow these steps a few times. Very soon you will know exactly how to make the kind of green tea that you like. Sip away and reap the many benefits of green tea!

10 Best Romantic Restaurants for Candle Light Dinner in Chennai

Ashwin Rajagopalan   |  Updated: February 01, 2017 13:03 IST

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Highlights

• Ideal places for romantic dates in chennai
• Most romantic restaurants dot the East coast road
• They offer everything - dim lighting, music and a beautiful setting

Dim lighting, music that sets the mood and a setting that is befitting for those special occasions. In Chennai, there’s also another element in the mix which few other metros can boast of – the beach. Many of Chennai’s favourite romantic dining venues dot the East coast road that stretches all the way to Pondicherry and hugs the Bay of Bengal. But there’s an equal number of rooftop venues with views and intimate indoor venues, so that you’re never short of options for that special dinner date.

1. Bay View, Vivanta by Taj Fisherman’s Cove

Few dinner venues in India can compete with Bay View’s backdrop – the Ocean. This is beach side dining at its unadulterated best and the closest you will get to a luxurious beach shack. No fancy furniture or props; just sweeping views of the Bay of Bengal and rustic tables. It’s not just the views, the seafood menu is built almost entirely on fresh catch of the day.

Address: Covelong Beach, East Coast Road.
 

_{Picture Credits: www.vivanta.tajhotels.com}


2. Wharf, Radisson Temple Bay

You’re on the edge of the ocean with stunning views and yet you’re ensconced within the comfort of an elegant restaurant under a thatched roof that merges with the beach. The Wharf might be a longish drive from the city but the views of Mamallapuram’s historic Shore Temple and a great blend of seafood and grills make it well worth it.

Address: 57, Kovalam Road, Mahabalipuram
 

_{Picture Credits: www.radissonblu.com}


3. Up North, Raintree Hotel Anna Salai

There are many places you can order a butter naan and a Dal Makhni in Chennai but it’s unlikely these restaurants will be able to match Up North’s dining experience. It largely stems from this cleverly named restaurant’s location – in the heart of Chennai with uncluttered views of the city lights. The menu stays in a predictable zone; sometimes it’s nice to be on a romantic date and dig into comfort food.

Address: 636, Anna Salai.
 

_{Picture Credits:www.raintreehotels.com}

4. China XO, the Leela Palace

The Leela is the only luxury hotel within the city that is perched close to the Bay of Bengal. The hotel’s signature Chinese restaurant has a few outdoor cabanas (during the cooler months) but it’s the indoor dining experience that wins our vote. Dark wood, generous splashes of red and tables that are not clustered together. The food keeps up and so does the service; the wait staff stay in the background and magically appear just when you need them.

Address: Adyar Sea Face, M.R.C Nagar.
 

_{Picture Credits: www.theleela.com}

5. Sunset Grill, the Westin Chennai Velachery

Combines two somewhat rare elements in the Chennai fine dining scene – an outdoor restaurant without an ocean view and a largely ‘grills only restaurant’. The views are a surprise and offer panoramas of the new Chennai, away from the city centre while the International grills are top notch. All you need is a glass of Sauvignon Blanc and candle light that are both available handy.

Address: 154, Velachery Main Road.
 

_{Picture Credits: www.westinchennaivelachery.com}

6. Kipling Café

One of the most popular venues along the East coast road but is not on the beach. Kipling’s serene garden seating area with a clutch of intimate cabanas more than makes up for the beach. It’s three distinct dining experiences and settings with menus that round up everything from European to Thai to Indian cuisine.

Address: 6, L Jey Avenue, Akkarai, East Coast Road.

_{Picture Credit: Facebook/Kipling Cafe}

7. The Dining room, Park Hyatt

This all-day dining restaurant might not enjoy the same attention as the hotel’s immensely popular Flying Elephant but packs inimitable charm. Part of this charm comes from being located next to a serene lily pond in the heart of the hotel – the restaurant also offers outdoor seating. Equally, it’s the restaurant’s unhurried vibe that almost replicates the experience of a special meal in the comfort of your own dining room.

Address: 39, Velachery Road, Near Raj Bhavan.    
 

_{Picture credits: www.parkhyatt.com}

8. On the Rocks, Crowne Plaza Chennai, Adyar Park

The focus has always been on the restaurant’s culinary credentials and the exotic dishes (and grills) on its menu. But more than the food it’s the restaurant’s intimate dining experience that merits serious attention. The attention to detail and service is terrific while the mood lighting and impressive wine list add to the restaurant’s allure.

Address: 132, TTK Road, Alwarpet.
 

_{Picture credits: www.crowneplaza.com​}

9. Azzuri Bay

Views of the Adyar river joining the Bay of Bengal in the distance and tucked away in one of Chennai’s serene residential nooks. Azzuri Bay offers a blend of cosy outdoor and indoor seating options. The rooftop has the slight edge on a pleasant evening thanks to the views and the menu – that features Italian and Thai signatures, has more hits than misses.

Address: 13, 1st Crescent Park Road, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar
 

_{Picture credits: www.azzuribay.com}
   
10. Aqua, The Park Chennai

A downtown location, a shimmering pool and cabanas that are almost a world unto themselves. The Aqua has long been one of Chennai’s ‘go to’ outdoor dining options with its laid back vibe. And just in case you want a change of scene, A2, the restaurant’s indoor twin is a few steps away and a world apart. Distress Chic and an eclectic menu that includes an assortment of Sushi Rolls.

Address: 601, Anna Salai.
 

_{Picture credits: www.theparkhotels.com}


About the Author:

Ashwin Rajagopalan is a cross cultural training expert and lifestyle writer. When he's not writing about food, he thinks about gadgets, trends and travel experiences. He enjoys communicating across cultures and borders in his weekday work avatar as a content and editorial consultant for a global major and one of India's only cross cultural trainers.

Disclaimer:

The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

Less Salty Diets Would Save Millions of Lives: Study

Agence France-Presse  |  Updated: January 11, 2017 14:02 IST

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Highlights

• Reducing salt intake worldwide
• By only ten percent could save millions of lives
• It can reduce high blood pressure and heart disease among people

Reducing salt intake worldwide by only ten percent could save millions of lives, a study reported Wednesday.

Government-led public service campaigns could massively cut mortality and disability caused by salt-triggered heart attacks and strokes for just over 10 US cents a year per person, researchers calculated.

Even without including healthcare savings, "we found that a government supported, national policy to reduce population sodium intake by 10 percent over 10 years would be cost effective," the authors concluded in the medical journal BMJ.

Most adults exceed the recommended maximum salt levels of 2 grammes per day, resulting in 1.65 million deaths from heart disease every year, according to the World Health Organization.

Research has shown that national policies to curb salt consumption can reduce the number of people affected by high blood pressure and heart disease.

But few countries around the world have assessed the costs of implementing such programmes.

A team of researchers led by Dariush Mozaffarian from the Tufts Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy calculated what it would cost to put in place a "soft regulation" strategy -- in coordination with industry -- for 183 nations.

They took into account age and sex distributions in each country in estimating both the costs and health effects.

They also tallied the number the number of years lost to poor health that could be averted -- a measure called DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) -- with a salt-reduced diet.

The study concluded that cutting salt intake over a decade would avoid about 5.8 million DALYs every year, at an average per person cost of $1.13 over the 10-year period.

The cost for each year of healthy life gained was roughly the same as what is currently spent on drugs used to prevent cardiovascular disease, they noted.



(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

Poverty may up death rate more than obesity, alcohol: Lancet

IANS  |  London  February 1, 2017 Last Updated at 13:38 IST

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People living in poverty may be 1.5 times or 46 per cent more at risk of an early death than individuals who are obese and heavily consume alcohol, a study has found.
The findings showed that low socio-economic status -- determined in a big way by factors such as education, income and work -- is linked to significant reductions in life expectancy and also likely to increase death rate in such people.

However, socio-economic status, which is one of the strongest predictors of illness and early death worldwide, is often overlooked in health policies, the researchers said.
"Given the huge impact of socio-economic status on health, it's vital that governments accept it as a major risk factor and stop excluding it from health policy," said lead author Silvia Stringhini from the Lausanne University Hospital in Switzerland.
For the study, published by The Lancet, the team included data from 48 studies comprising more than 1.7 million people from the UK, France, Switzerland, Portugal, Italy, US and Australia and used a person's job title to estimate their socio-economic status and looked at whether they died early.
The results revealed that when compared with their wealthier counterparts, people with low socio-economic status were almost 1.5 times (46 per cent) more likely to die before they were 85 years old.
The greatest reductions in life expectancy were found in people who smoked tobacco and had diabetes (4.8 and 3.9 years respectively).
Comparatively, high blood pressure, obesity and high alcohol consumption were associated with smaller reductions in life expectancy (1.6, 0.7 and 0.5 years respectively) than low socio-economic status.
Having low social rank means limited opportunities which can shape both the lifestyle as well as life chances, the researchers noted.
Thus, "reducing poverty, improving education and creating safe home, school and work environments are central to overcoming the impact of socio-economic deprivation.
"By doing this, socio-economic status could be targeted and improved, leading to better wealth and health for many," Stringhini said.

Excessive Marathon Practice Can Adversely Affect Heart

Indo-Asian News Service  |  Updated: January 11, 2017 14:30 IST

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Highlights

• Doctors urges not to practice excessively for marathons
• As it may have adverse affects on the heart
• Especially for the adults and senior citizens

As Mumbai full marathon approaches, doctors have urged participants not to practice excessively as it may have adverse affects on the heart, especially for the adults and senior citizens, said doctors.

"People doing regular exercise have a healthy life, but as overdosing of medicines is always toxic, similarly excessive endurance exercise like marathon running, has shown to have paradoxical, adverse effects on the heart," said Ajay Pandey, Cardiologist at SRV Hospital.

Pandey said heavy chronic exercising imposes certain adaptations on the heart due to excessive prolonged workload on the heart, like heart muscles hypertrophy, enlarged heart volumes, etc.

Mumbai will hold a full marathon on January 15, 2017. Thousands of participants are expected to participate.

Cautioning of even sudden death due to excess practice, the doctors have also said that with recurrent strain on the heart, there can be adverse dilatation of the heart chambers along with patchy muscles scarring.

"These changes are almost always asymptomatic, occurring over many years, but predispose to serious heart rate and rhythm irregularities, both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, and can be a cause of sudden death in some people," said Pandey.

Experts said that though incidence of such cases are low -- 1 in 40,000 athletes, unfortunately, there are no proven methods to screen for these potentially dangerous changes occurring with extreme exercising.

Narayan Gadkar, Cardiologist at Mumbai's Zen Multi-specialty Hospital, said that over training is not always in favour of the body, especially when it is the senior citizens and adults aged around 50.

"There are many who have started vigorous running and practice for the marathon. Recent incident of a doctor who died while preparing himself for a marathon has brought the ill effects of inadequate training or over training to the front," said Gadkar.

"As one starts ageing, the body gets older and prone to heart diseases. There has been no substantial evidence or data that shows running to affect the heart. Although, moderate running helps in controlling weight, stress, blood pressure and cholesterol; as one gets older the body is prone to heart diseases," said Gadkar.

Sit Up: Good Posture Can Boost Your Mood and Help Fight Depression

NDTV Food  |  Updated: February 01, 2017 12:10 IST

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Highlights

• Slumped posture is a diagnostic feature of depression
• Adopting an upright posture may increase positive affect
• Postural manipulation can significantly improve posture

A secret wish that we all have, somewhere playing at the back of our mind, is to be stress free. The non-stop daily schedule with strict deadlines and a billion things to do can definitely take a toll on our health no matter how good we are at multi-tasking. This chase for money, or call it a means of better living, doesn't come easy. But your health is not what you should be willing to compromise on. Both, your physical and mental health, are essential for your well-being. There are various factors that lead to stress, anxiety and depression. We don't always realise it, but there are some habits we start adopting at that time that are actually warning signs. A case in point is your posture.Slumped posture is a diagnostic feature of depression. The negative thinking or low level of energy can harm us in more ways than one. Some research studies had stated earlier that good posture can work wonders in boosting one's confidence, mood and energy levels. However, these studies were conducted largely on healthy samples. A new study done by researchers at the University of Auckland aimed to investigate whether changing posture could reduce negative affect and fatigue in people with mild to moderate depression undergoing a stressful task and they came about with positive results.


According to the study, adopting an upright posture may increase positive affect, reduce fatigue, and decrease self-focus in people with mild-to-moderate depression. "These studies suggest that, compared to sitting in a slumped position, sitting upright can make you feel more proud after a success, increase your persistence at an unsolvable task, and make you feel more confident in your thoughts," said Elizabeth Broadbent, one of the authors of the study. "Research also suggests that sitting upright can make you feel more alert and enthusiastic, feel less fearful, and have higher self-esteem after a stressful task."

The researchers conducted a study involving sixty-one community participants who screened positive for mild to moderate depression. The effects of physiotherapy tape on cognitive function were monitored. They were randomised to sit with usual posture or upright posture and physiotherapy tape was applied. Participants completed the Trier Social Stress Test speech task. Changes in affect and fatigue were assessed. The words spoken by the participants during their speeches were analysed.


It was found that postural manipulation significantly improved posture and increased high arousal positive affect and fatigue compared to usual posture. This preliminary study suggests that straightening your posture can have beneficial effects.

Home Health 8 Incredible Benefits Of Camphor: Pain Killer, Sleep Inducer And More 8 Incredible Benefits of Camphor: Pain Killer, Sleep Inducer and More

8 Incredible Benefits of Camphor: Pain Killer, Sleep Inducer and More

Dr. Gulshant Panesar, Senior Consultant Dermatologist, Moolchand Medcity  |  Updated: January 13, 2017 19:36 IST

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Highlights

• Camphor is scientifically known as Cinnamomum Camphor
• Only 50-years old trees can produce camphor oil
• It is considered as an important ingredient in vapor rubs

Camphor, scientifically known as Cinnamomum Camphor, is a combustible, translucent white solid which has a piquant smell and sour taste, though some people quite like its menthol-like, nose tingling fragrance.

Camphor is obtained from the bark of the tree Cinnamonun camphora. Only 50-years old trees produce a waxy substance which is used as camphor oil. The process of steam distillation is used to extract camphor oil from the stems of the tree. The camphor tree is said to be a native of Hiroshima, Japan. It is evergreen and now grows all over Asia, primarily in Indonesia. The Indonesian variety is named Dryobalanops camphora.

Camphor can be used in multiple ways. It is considered as an important ingredient in vapor rubs, balms and liniments as the oil is said to allay pain and reduce itching. It also helps in keeping cockroaches, moths and other insects at bay from our wardrobe. Camphor is used in religious ceremonies too. Besides, it is beneficial for the skin and hair.

Here are some skin, hair and health benefits of camphor:

1. Relieves Pain and Swelling

On the skin it acts as a counter irritant and is therefore used topically to relieve pain and swelling. It causes numbness of sensory nerve endings of skin, thereby reliving pain and inflammation, and preventing skin redness.
 

2. Alleviates Skin Rashes

Another skin problem faced by many people is rashes that cause redness. Camphor can help in getting rid of rashes and redness when used as topical itch relieving gels.

How to use: Just dissolve the camphor oil in water and apply it on the affected area for a few days.

3. Treatment of Nail Fungus

Nail fungus or onychomycosis may require treatment by oral anti-fungal, but topical preparations like Vaporub containing camphor oil can be added for faster clearing of the fungus. However, it is effective against onychomycosis caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Candida parapsilosis, which are species of fungi.
 

4. Used to Treat Eczema

Camphor can be used to treat irritated symptoms of eczema in kids and adults. Camphor helps in relieving the pain and inflammation, which is a symptom of eczema. Camphor is also found in many lotions and ointment treatments of eczema.

5. Helps Induce Sleep

Fragrance of camphor oil has a calming effect on the mind and brings a good night’s sleep.

How to use: Few drops of the oil can be rubbed on the pillow to induce sleep.
 

6. Treats Cold and Cough

Camphor helps in treating cold and cough and relieves throat congestion. Camphor oil is an ingredient of many vaporub and decongestants.

How to use: Rub some on your chest and back and let it work its magic.
 

7. Promotes Hair Growth

Less hair on the scalp is a nightmare. This could result due to a number of factors, such as improper hair care routine and spending lots and lots of money on chemical loaded hair care products. So, here’s a solution to the problem - use camphor oil. Application of camphor oil on the hair makes it soft and boosts hair growth.

How to use: Mix camphor oil to your regular oil and apply it on the scalp. This will stimulate blood flow to the applied area and promote hair growth.

8. Home Remedy for Head Lice

Camphor oil mixed in bathing water is used for the treatment of Pediculosis capitis or head lice.

How to use: Mix powdered camphor tablet in coconut oil and apply it evenly on scalp and hair before going to bed. Wash your hair with shampoo and say goodbye to lice. This is because camphor powder suffocates the lice and hence kills them.

Disclaimer:


The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

Paracetamol Doesn't Help Lower-Back Pain or Arthritis, Study Shows

Denis Campbell, guardian.co.uk  |  Updated: April 01, 2015 17:06 IST

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Some are calling for doctors to stop prescribing paracetamol for back pain and arthritis. Photograph: Alamy


Researchers want doctors to rethink endorsement of the drug, which they say is no more effective than a placebo for these conditions.


Paracetamol does not relieve back pain and offers almost no help to people with arthritis in their hips or knees, according to research. The findings have led to calls for doctors to stop prescribing the painkiller, which is commonly used to treat those conditions.


"Paracetamol is ineffective in the treatment of low back pain and provides minimal short-term benefit for people with osteoarthritis," concludes the study, which is published in the British Medical Journal.


"These results support the reconsideration of recommendations to use paracetamol for patients with low back pain and osteoarthritis of the hip or knee in clinical practice guidelines," the authors add.


An estimated 10 million Britons are affected by pain, with the condition believed to lead to the loss of many millions of working days, including some 4.9m a year from work-related back pain. The findings have put pressure on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice), which advises the NHS on what treatments are worthwhile.


Nice caused controversy last year by continuing to endorse the use of paracetamol for osteoarthritis, despite concerns about its effectiveness and safety. However, when it was updating that clinical guideline, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency began a review into the safety of over-the-counter medicines generally, including paracetamol.


Nice has therefore decided to wait until the MHRA has finished before looking again at the evidence for how drugs, including paracetamol, can potentially relieve the pain of osteoarthritis. It also advises that patients with sore hips or knees caused by arthritis should use physical activity and exercise, and seek to slim down if they are overweight or obese, to relieve their condition.


The institute also currently recommends the analgesic as a treatment for lower back pain. However, its guideline containing that advice is being updated as part of an ongoing review process. "As for any guideline update, any new relevant evidence that becomes available will be taken into account as part of the update," the spokeswoman added.


The research says that the evidence to support Nice's recommendations is weak and inconsistent, and that there may be safety issues from taking the recommended full dose of paracetamol, which is up to 4,000mg a day.


It was led by Gustavo Machado, from the George Institute for Global Health at the University of Sydney. He and his team reviewed 13 randomised controlled studies which had looked into the safety and effectiveness of paracetamol for lower back pain and osteoarthritic pain.


"'High-quality' evidence shows that paracetamol is ineffective for low back pain ... We also found 'high-quality' evidence that paracetamol increases the risk of having an abnormal result on liver function tests by nearly four-fold, although the impact of this on clinically relevant patients is unclear," they say.


With osteoarthritis, "our results show only a small, clinically irrelevant benefit of paracetamol for pain and disability at short-term follow-up", the authors add. In addition, large doses of the painkiller - above 4,000mg a day - can produce dangerously large amounts of a toxic metabolite, which can lead to liver failure.


The researchers want doctors and those who draw up clinical guidelines to rethink their endorsement of paracetamol, which they say is no more effective than a placebo. Exercise, especially strengthening exercises, may be just as effective as the painkiller for both conditions, they say.


"Our results therefore provide an argumnent to reconsider the endorsement of paracetamol in clinical practice guidelines for low back pain and hip or knee osteoarthritis.


"We found that paracetamol is ineffective on both pain and disability outcomes for low back pain in the immediate and short term and is not clinically superior to placebo on both pain and disability outcomes for osteoarthritis," they add.


The Royal College of GPs and Royal College of Physicians, which represents hospital doctors, did not respond to requests for a response to the findings.

Home Opinions An Alternative For Addicts, Kratom Can Offer Relief, And Sometimes A Relapse An Alternative for Addicts, Kratom Can Offer Relief, and Sometimes a Relapse

An Alternative for Addicts, Kratom Can Offer Relief, and Sometimes a Relapse

Alan Schwarz, The New York Times  |  Updated: January 04, 2016 13:21 IST

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hree shaky months into recovery from heroin addiction, Dariya Pankova found something to ease her withdrawal. A local nonalcoholic bar sold a brewed beverage that soothed her brain and body much as narcotics had. A perfect solution - before it backfired.


Pankova grew addicted to the beverage itself. She drank more and more, awakened her cravings for the stronger high of heroin, and relapsed. Only during another stay in rehab did Pankova learn that the drink's primary ingredient, a Southeast Asian leaf called kratom, affects the brain like an opiate and can be addictive, too.


"It's preying on the weak and the broken," said Pankova, 23, a Brooklyn native who received treatment in Delray Beach. "It's a mind-altering substance, so people like me who are addicts and alcoholics, they think just because it's legal, it's fine. It's a huge epidemic down here, and it's causing a lot of relapses."


Some users embrace kratom as a natural painkiller and benign substitute for more dangerous substances that, in most states, is legal. But its growing popularity and easy availability are raising concerns among substance abuse experts and government officials who say it is being furtively marketed as a way out of addiction, even though it is itself addictive. Worse, some of those experts say, kratom can lead some addicts back to heroin, which is cheaper and stronger.


"It's a fascinating drug, but we need to know a lot more about it," said Dr. Edward W. Boyer, a professor of emergency medicine at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and a co-author of several scientific articles on kratom. "Recreationally or to self-treat opioid dependence, beware - potentially you're at just as much risk" as with an opiate.


Concern is particularly high in South Florida, where a rising concentration of drug-treatment providers has coincided with the sprouting of kratom bars. But kratom is now available around the country. Powdered forms of the leaf are sold at head shops and gas-station convenience stores and on the Internet. Bars have recently opened in Colorado, New York, North Carolina and other states where customers nurse brewed varieties, varying in strength, from plastic bottles that resemble those for fruit juice.


Kratom exists in a kind of legal purgatory. Because it is categorized as a botanic dietary supplement, the Food and Drug Administration cannot restrict its sale unless it is proved unsafe or producers claim that it treats a medical condition. (Some packages are coyly labeled "not for human consumption" to avoid tripping such alarms.)


The FDA did ban the import of kratom into the United States in 2014, however, under its authority when a substance is strongly suspected to be harmful. That year, marshals seized 25,000 pounds of it from a Los Angeles warehouse.


The Drug Enforcement Administration has listed kratom as a "drug of concern" but not a controlled substance, which would require proven health risks and abuse potential. Indiana, Tennessee, Vermont and Wyoming have banned it on their own; several other states, including Florida and New Jersey, have set aside similar bills until more is known about kratom's health risks. The Army has forbidden its use by soldiers.


Kratom has been linked to seizures and respiratory depression, but deaths related to it appear rare. Linda Mautner, who lives in the Delray Beach area, has claimed that her 20-year-old son, Ian, committed suicide in 2014 in the throes of kratom addiction, but Ian Mautner was also receiving treatment for depression. Some deaths in the United States have resulted from kratom's being laced with the prescription pain reliever hydrocodone or morphine.


Kratom's narcotic effects have been known for centuries in its native Thailand, which banned the substance decades ago amid widespread abuse. Nevertheless, kratom being sold in the United States is still smuggled in from Thailand, as well as several other Southeast Asian countries. Western research of kratom is in its infancy.


Some kratom advocates claim that it helped wean them from stronger and more dangerous opiates. Susan Ash of Norfolk, Virginia, said she had taken kratom during treatment for dependence on prescription painkillers, and now uses a small amount daily for chronic pain and depression. Last year, she founded the American Kratom Association, a consumer group of more than 2,000 members that lobbies against state bills to ban the substance.

_{Robert Waina, a previous drug user in Delray Beach, Fla., ordered bottle after bottle, tried to quit and could not, and had to return to rehab.}

"We know from all our experiences that kratom has the potential to be a wonderful medicine," said Ash, 46, adding that her organization receives little funding from kratom manufacturers. "We're all experiencing that it's changing our lives. We do agree that more science is needed to actually prove this potential that we know it has."


Meanwhile, kratom is sold somewhat under the radar. In Carrboro, North Carolina, a nonalcoholic bar called Krave serves kratom drinks under the name "ketum" to deter connections to the substance's darker side, the owner, Elizabeth Gardner, said. Gardner added that if she learns that a customer is in substance-abuse recovery, she will disclose concerns about kratom's potential addictiveness.


Kavasutra, a popular chain of bars that sell kratom and kava, another plant-based drink, does not list kratom on its menu, but sells it regularly in bottles and small plastic bags of powder. Kavasutra's owner, Dylan Harrison, was once one of South Florida's primary manufacturers and distributors of spice, a synthetic hallucinogen banned under federal law. He was released from federal prison in August 2014 after serving 10 months on drug charges. Several telephone messages left for Harrison were not returned.


Ian Mautner's death has fueled debates among South Florida lawmakers over making kratom illegal, a move supported by the Broward County Medical Association. Neither Broward County nor Palm Beach County, which includes Delray Beach, has done so, however, and Palm Beach County decided in April to not require warning signs of kratom's addictiveness at bars and stores that sell it.


Pankova frequented the Kavasutra in Delray Beach not only because kratom soothed her cravings for opiates, she said, but also because it was not detectable on the drug tests she took as part of her recovery program. Many drug-treatment providers consider kratom use a full-fledged relapse. Pankova said she and many friends wound up spending $60 a day on kratom drinks before moving back to less expensive heroin.


Another South Florida resident with that experience, Robert Waina, said he had abused dozens of different drugs before discovering kratom three years ago. He enjoyed the mild high to the point that he found himself ordering bottle after bottle. When he tried to cut back, he couldn't, and eventually suffered from such withdrawals that he had to go to rehab for kratom three times, most recently last spring.


Sitting in a coffee shop in Delray Beach, Waina said recently that he had stayed sober since then, avoiding kratom like any other drug.


"If I'm taking it," he said, "as far as I'm concerned, I'm not clean."


©  2016 New York Times News Service