salt consumption

World Hypertension Day (May 17)

Electric vehicles are now outnumbering diesel vehicles in Kolkata, with registration data from the Public Vehicles Department in Beltala showing a significant decline in diesel unit enrollments. This trend aligns with the central government's clean energy initiatives and a call to reduce fossil fuel consumption.

World Thyroid Day on May 25th highlights the crucial role of this gland in metabolism. Experts emphasize nutrition's impact, recommending Mediterranean and Paleo diets for hypothyroidism while cautioning against excessive iodine. Maintaining balanced intake of selenium, zinc, and essential vitamins like D and B12 is vital for thyroid health. Managing diet can significantly improve thyroid function.

Karnataka's food safety watchdog found namkeens, dairy products, and spices to be the most unsafe in 2025-26. Excessive synthetic colours in snacks and low fat content in milk and butter were major concerns. Over 390 food businesses faced legal action, with penalties totaling Rs 77 lakh. Despite this, the state saw significant growth in new food businesses.

Doctors have been saying this for a while: younger Indians are increasingly being diagnosed with high blood pressure. Now, a recent study confirms this. Even as overall hypertension cases have increased, in low- and middle-income countries, the largest burden is among people aged 40 to 59 – the heart of the working-age population

In Maharashtra's Akola district, Kavatha village faces a 50-year-old drinking water crisis, with 2,500 residents digging for muddy seepage. Despite a nearby irrigation barrage, a planning oversight prevented water storage, leaving villagers with contaminated options. Recent infrastructure fixes offer hope for the coming monsoon.

Your urine colour offers vital health clues, often overlooked. While pale yellow indicates good hydration, darker shades can signal dehydration. Pink or red urine might point to food or, more seriously, blood, requiring medical attention. Cloudy urine could suggest infection or kidney issues. Doctors urge paying attention to these daily signals for early detection of health problems.

Bigg Boss 17 fame Soniya Bansal shares her strategies for staying cool during rising temperatures, emphasizing hydration with water and coconut water, and opting for light, home-cooked meals like curd rice and salads. She also advises on managing outdoor activities and home environment to combat the heat, highlighting traditional Indian summer drinks as effective remedies.

Japanese longevity is attributed to centuries-old dietary staples like natto, miso, and seaweed, rich in probiotics, minerals, and nutrients supporting gut health, bone density, and metabolic function. Consistent consumption of anti-inflammatory wasabi, ginger, and antioxidant-rich green tea further contributes to healthy aging, highlighting the power of dietary patterns over single superfoods.

Introducing sugar and salt to babies under one year old is strongly discouraged by health experts. This is to protect their developing organs, prevent tooth decay, and shape healthy taste preferences. Focus on natural food flavors, offering plain fruits, vegetables, and grains instead of processed, salty, or sugary options. The advice emphasizes a simple, fresh approach to infant nutrition.

A global study links 1.11 million heart deaths in India each year to poor diets, with the country also leading in lost healthy years. From excess salt to missing nutrients, everyday eating habits are emerging as a major driver of heart disease

Can every worker afford the economy that they keep running?

A new study reveals that consuming ultra-processed foods, like chips and cookies, significantly alters muscle structure. This dietary habit leads to increased fat accumulation in thigh muscles, resembling steak marbling, and is linked to a higher risk of knee osteoarthritis. Researchers emphasize that reducing these processed items is crucial for muscle health beyond just calorie counting.

Doctors across India are observing a significant rise in lightheadedness, particularly during hotter months. This increase is attributed to dehydration from heat, irregular meal patterns, and sudden blood pressure drops. While often dismissed, persistent dizziness can signal underlying health concerns, emphasizing the need for timely medical attention and simple preventive measures.

Weight loss advice in 2026 is surprisingly simple. A viral 7-day Indian meal plan focuses on whole foods and portion control. This realistic approach is gaining attention for its balance and consistency. Scientific research supports each day's nutritional logic. The plan emphasises everyday home-cooked meals and sustainable habits over extreme diets. It offers a doable strategy for long-term success.

Tired of bitter coffee? A pinch of salt can surprisingly transform your brew. This simple trick acts as a biochemical filter, suppressing bitterness and revealing subtle sweet and fruity notes. While not all bitterness is tamed, this method offers an instant, refined taste without artificial additives. Remember, a tiny amount after brewing is key for optimal flavour enhancement.

Humidity is a silent saboteur, turning pantry staples into mouldy waste by promoting bacterial growth and degrading nutrients. Protecting your groceries from moisture is key to a healthy kitchen and controlled finances. Airtight containers and cool, dry storage below 60% humidity are crucial for preserving food quality and nutrition for longer.

A Hapur food safety raid uncovered a factory producing adulterated tomato sauce using rotten vegetables, acid, and banned dyes. This substandard product was allegedly sold to local eateries. Officials urge consumers to be vigilant about hygiene and product quality, especially at roadside stalls. The report also details common adulterants and offers simple home tests for sauce purity.