.svg)
There’s been a lot of noise about HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) lately on social media and the news. It feels like déjà vu, like COVID-19 all over again. But let’s take a deep breath and think critically for a second. From childhood, we’ve been taught about viruses and their symptoms like the common cold, flu, and others are part of life. Yes, severe cases can sometimes turn into bronchitis or pneumonia and in extreme cases, these can be life-threatening. But here’s the thing: this isn’t new information.
When COVID-19 hit, the symptoms, cough, fever, and fatigue weren’t entirely new. What amplified the fear were the headlines, sensational news, and constant doom scrolling on social media. People became hyper-vigilant of every sneeze or cough. This is the reason why stress, panic, and cortisol levels went through the roof. And as we know, chronic stress can weaken our immune systems and ironically make us more prone to illness.
So let’s talk about HMPV. This isn’t a new virus. It’s been around for over 50 years. Studies have been done and experts know its behaviour. It can cause respiratory symptoms but it’s not the deadly threat the headlines make it out to be.
The real danger is fear and misinformation. Panickiness and stress have a bigger impact on your health than the virus itself.
Stay informed but don’t let sensationalism steal your peace of mind. Focus on keeping your immune system healthy, eat well, drink well and rest. Trust science not fear.
In this blog, we’ll explore the HMPV Virus, its symptoms, how it spreads, and what we can do to stay protected.
HMPV stands for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). This virus was first identified in 2001, studies suggest that HMPV has been circulating in humans for several decades but now it has come into the picture. HMPV is a common cause of upper and lower respiratory tract infections, especially in children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
There aren’t any antiviral medications that treat this HMPV virus, but most people can manage its symptoms at home until they feel better. This virus can be diagnosed by using a swab to get a sample from the nose or throat.
As this is a virus it spreads primarily through respiratory droplets, surface contamination, and close contact.
Since HMPV can present itself with these symptoms due to overlapping, it becomes quite a task to diagnose it in the beginning stages.
It is always easier to prevent than it is to cure. HMPV infection control tactics can be used as suggestions seeing as it’s still being researched.
Adopt Good Hygiene Practices
Practice Social Distancing
Boost Your Immunity:
While it is obvious to feel anxious about a new virus like HMPV, the right knowledge is our greatest tool. Therefore, understanding the virus, recognising symptoms and taking preventative measures can help in keeping ourselves and our communities safe.
At iThrive, we believe in empowering individuals with the best health care and build a strong immunity that leads to healthier lives. Our functional nutrition approach focuses on personalised nutrition, expert guidance, supplementation, root cause analysis, and lifestyle interventions. We are here to support you in every possible way and make you prepared for future challenges.
Stay informed and most importantly don’t panic. Together with the right support and proactive measures, we can tackle any disease.
Have you experienced that awkward moment when something isn’t right in the bedroom? Your body doesn’t cooperate as it should, and you may hear that voice: " It’s just a part of aging and you just need to relax”. Did you get what I am talking about? Yes, it’s erectile dysfunction. Men who deal with erectile dysfunction often find themselves trapped in the cycle of embarrassment, confusion, and frustration. And when this topic is spoken about there is always that uncomfortable silence as if admitting it could somehow make it worse.
But we have to be honest and it’s time to break the silence because you don’t have to suffer in silence and continue relying on those temporary fixes. You have to go beyond that and ask yourself what is the real reason behind this. There is a lot of misleading information about erectile dysfunction. Also, conventional medicines are not the only solutions however it is important to recognize that there is something in the roots that needs to be addressed.
This blog will provide insight on erectile dysfunction, and sexual health, understand what is actually happening to your body, and explore the real solutions beyond the surface with iThrive.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition where a man struggles to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. Erectile dysfunction not only happens once in a while but it is a recurring issue that affects sexual health and overall quality of life. But everyone out there, you need to know one thing, erectile dysfunction isn’t just about what happened in the bedroom, however, it gives those SOS signals from your body that something isn’t quite right. When this becomes a consistent issue it can be an indicator of physical or psychological health issues that need to be taken care of.
A lot of factors such as lifestyle choices and serious health issues can trigger erectile dysfunction.
Physical Health conditions:
Psychological Factors:
Lifestyle factors:
While there are a lot of conventional treatments like medications and surgeries that may work for some men, however, they may have side effects in the long run. These treatments do not work on the root causes of your issues but they just work on the symptoms. Men who think doing surgery and taking medications is the only solution, you need to know that there is a different approach that treats the root causes of your symptoms. We believe a holistic approach with iThrive can make a big difference in the long run. One of the biggest emotional consequences of erectile dysfunction is the hit it takes on self-esteem. It is often found that men who struggle with ED often feel inadequate, embarrassed, and frustrated which can affect confidence. But it is very important to remember that erectile dysfunction is not a reflection of your masculinity- it’s a medical condition that can be treated. Here are some of the effective strategies you should implement to feel the difference:
Lifestyle changes
Stress Reduction
If you are dealing with erectile dysfunction it’s time to stop hiding behind the temporary fixes and get to the root of the issue. Whether it is related to lifestyle choices, psychological stress, health conditions or other reasons, there are real solutions available to address them. Addressing the underlying causes can help restore your health, your confidence, and your relationship. Don’t let ED control your life. Take action, Book a free consultation with iThrive if you have any issues related to erectile dysfunction and want a lifelong solution to restore balance to your sexual health and well-being.
Indians truly love their food- whether spicy, tangy, or sweet, taste always wins. But with all that, it often leads to one of the most common digestive issues: constipation. In fact, according to a 2018 Gut Health Survey, nearly 22% of Indian adults suffer from constipation, with 13% experiencing severe cases and 6% dealing with it alongside other conditions. As txhe popular Bollywood movie, Piku famously quoted, "Insaan ka emotion uska motion ke saath juda hua hai (A person’s emotion is connected to his motion)!" This connection between mood and digestion is real, and functional nutrition may be the key to breaking free from this “blocked” routine.
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into constipation, and its common causes, and explore how functional nutrition can offer a holistic solution to relieve and manage this discomfort naturally.
Constipation is a condition that affects many people and is described by uncomfortable or infrequent bowel movements. It's typically defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week or experiencing difficulty when passing stool. The stools may be small, hard, and dry, making the process painful and unsatisfying.
Important: While some people have bowel movements several times a day, others might only go once or twice a week. What matters is whether you are within your normal pattern.
1. Painful and Difficult Bowel Movements- If passing stools has become a painful struggle, it could be a sign that your digestive system isn’t functioning optimally. Difficulty in bowel movements can cause strain, affecting your daily comfort and energy levels.
2. Infrequent Bowel Movements- Having fewer than three bowel movements a week is a classic symptom of constipation. This reduced frequency can lead to further discomfort and a feeling of “backed up” digestion.
3. Constant Bloating and Discomfort- Feeling bloated or having an uncomfortable sensation in your abdomen can indicate that waste isn’t moving through your system as it should. Bloating can add to the sluggish feeling that many experience with constipation.
4. Low-Energy Feeling- Constipation doesn’t just affect your stomach; it affects your overall energy levels. Feeling sluggish or tired is often linked to digestive problems, as your body struggles to process waste efficiently.
5. Hard, Lumpy Stools- Passing hard, dry stools is another tell-tale sign. These are difficult to pass and may worsen if not addressed, leading to even more discomfort.
6. Incomplete Emptying- If you feel like your bowels haven’t fully emptied, even after going to the restroom, it’s a common symptom of constipation. This feeling can create anxiety around using the bathroom.
7. A Feeling of Rectal Blockage- A sense that the rectum is blocked or that stool cannot pass easily can signal more severe constipation, requiring attention.
8. Need to Use a Finger for Help- Some may find that they need to use a finger to help pass stool, which can be concerning and is a significant sign that constipation has become severe.
1. Age-Related Digestive Changes- Our digestive system naturally slows down as we age. People over 65 years old often have decreased metabolism and weaker muscle contractions along their digestive tract, making it harder for food to move smoothly. This slowdown can lead to more frequent constipation.
2. Low-Fiber Diet- Fiber is crucial for healthy digestion. If your diet lacks high-fiber foods, you’re missing out on a natural digestive aid. Fiber helps keep food moving through the digestive system, so without it, constipation is far more likely.
Constipation isn’t just uncomfortable; it can lead to a range of complications as mentioned above. While these symptoms might sound alarming, there’s a natural, effective approach to address constipation at its core: Functional Nutrition.
At iThrive, we believe that Functional Nutrition is the key to addressing constipation because it targets the root causes rather than just the symptoms. Functional Nutrition looks at your entire lifestyle and body systems to understand the imbalances causing your digestive issues. Here’s how it works:
Your journey begins with booking a free consultation to understand your specific health needs. This step allows us to assess your lifestyle, diet, and any health imbalances that may help with constipation, providing you with a roadmap toward lasting relief.
Our diagnostic protocols, based on, not only test for key additional parameters but also differ significantly in their evaluation ranges. Functional Nutrition evaluation protocols are more rigorous and help find hidden root causes and health imbalances that conventional check-ups miss. Includes a complete 60-minute video call with our expert Functional Nutritionist who explains the reports to you and discusses all your health concerns.
Each person’s body responds differently to foods, so a one-size-fits-all approach to diet rarely works. Functional Nutrition uses tailored dietary recommendations to include more fiber-rich foods, adequate hydration, and natural sources of digestive enzymes to support smoother bowel movements.
Poor gut health is often a hidden factor behind chronic constipation. Functional Nutrition focuses on nurturing your gut microbiome with probiotics, prebiotics, and nutrient-dense foods that naturally support regularity and relieve constipation.
Magnesium, Probiotics with Prebiotics, and certain B vitamins are critical in keeping digestion regular, but deficiencies are common. A functional nutrition approach helps identify these deficiencies and provides the right supplements or food sources to help you feel relief.
Functional Nutrition also emphasizes stress management, physical activity, and quality sleep, all impacting digestive health. Through lifestyle changes, you can support the health of your gut and reduce the strain on your digestive system.
If you’re struggling with constipation, our iThrive team of expert Functional Nutritionists can help guide you toward lasting relief. Book a free consultation to explore a personalized, natural plan that will help you get to the root cause of your discomfort. Rediscover the power of nutrition and live with ease - your digestive health deserves it! Visit us at iThrive to start your journey to better health.
A collection of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes, often called pre period symptoms, is referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to unbearable period pain, requiring effective PMS relief strategies. A collection of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes, often called pre-period symptoms, is referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The changes are normally detected in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, about a week or two weeks before menstruation. Symptoms may be mild enough to not hinder the ability to go about normal functioning or severe enough to prevent normal functioning. Understanding these signs and finding the right PMS treatment can greatly improve daily life.
PMS is caused by fluctuations in the levels of hormones involved in the menstrual cycle. Estrogen and progesterone build up after ovulation and then sharply decline just before menstruation, resulting in symptoms both physical and emotional. The levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that controls mood, also fluctuate, which can contribute to PMS symptoms of irritability and anxiety. If the symptoms become overwhelming, seeking advice from a healthcare provider for an effective PMS treatment is crucial.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that involves intense emotional and physical symptoms in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, typically occurring about a week or two before menstruation begins. Unlike PMS, PMDD significantly disrupts daily life, work, and relationships.
.webp)
PMS typically results in emotional conditions such as mood swings, anxiety, and irritability. These are brought by the rhythmical fluctuations in the hormone levels of the body and can affect the usual activity and mental capability. While these symptoms vary in intensity, taking PMS vitamins, particularly magnesium and calcium, can help stabilize emotional fluctuations.
What It Feels Like:
During PMS, happiness, gloominess or anger suddenly shoots up, so women often feel emotionally sensitive. The minute events will influence the emotional life of a woman.
Simple Solutions:
Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep can stabilize mood swings. Relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga help stabilize emotions.
Why It Happens:
Diminishing levels of estrogen and serotonin hormones have been known to bring on stresses, anxiety, or fearful levels that many think begin before a period.
Relief Measures:
Sometimes the anxiety simply subsides with being more aware, not drinking too much coffee, and other de-stressing strategies, like deep breathing or gentle exercise. Herbal supplements like magnesium relieve a lot of women.
What It Shows:
Irritability during PMS is making you feel that you're overreacting to minor irritants, which at times irritates you, annoys you, and makes you irritable or angry at people and situations that might normally not bother you.
Managing the Irritation:
Irritability can be managed through understanding what causes the irritation and, subsequently, taking short breaks when the pressure seems too great. Efforts to exercise and communicate the feelings to loved ones may also alleviate stress.
PMS also causes physical discomfort, commonly known as period symptoms, including bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, and even unbearable period pain for some women. Understanding these signs and finding the right PMS treatment can greatly improve daily life. Healthy habits like regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and hydration play a key role in PMS relief. These habits can reduce pre-period symptoms like bloating and irritability.
What’s Going On:
Hormonal imbalance causes your body to retain water, and your body can feel bloated, with a bloated tummy too.
Ease the Pain:
While exercises, more water, and less food will reduce the symptoms of a bloated belly, exercise also stimulates digestion and helps to rid the body of excess water.
What It Feels Like:
Your breasts are swollen, heavy, or sore because of hormonal changes, but most often, this tends to happen in the week leading up to your period.
Soften the Sensitivity:
Breast tenderness may be relieved by wearing a supportive bra, applying warm compresses, and avoiding caffeine.
Why You Feel Tired:
HORMONAL CHANGES, POOR SLEEP AND GENERAL DISCOMFORT are the reasons that cause fatigue during PMS.
How To Recharge Your Energy
Ensure you get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Light exercises and hydration, combined with nutrient-rich foodstuffs, will easily restore energy. You can also take PMS vitamins tablets.
How it affects you:
Hormonal changes with low estrogen hormone would result in headache or migraine symptoms during the menstrual cycle
Quick Response
For relieving headaches, try proper hydration, use ice packs, and consider supplements along with soothing hibiscus tea to ease symptoms.
What’s Behind It:
The effect of hormonal changes might trigger cravings for sweet, salty, or carbohydrate-rich foods and a change in appetite.
How to Manage It:
Balanced meals with whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fat support the body's natural regulation of blood sugar, thereby fewer cravings for unhealthy snacks, and definitely avoiding giving the body fuel for future indulgence. It’s also helpful to plan healthy snacks to avoid overindulging in less nutritious options.
Why It Happens:
Hormonal imbalance in the menstrual cycle, especially the rise in androgen, leads to more oils. Consequently, pores get clogged and there is a break out.
Simple Skincare Tips:
Use gentle cleaners and use non-comedogenic moisturisers. Avoid scrubbing the skin harshly. Products containing salicylic acids or benzoyl peroxide can also be used to manage breakouts. Hydrate and steer clear of facial touching to not introduce germs.
The Sleep Struggle:
Hormonal shifts, with the added stress or discomfort of PMS, can disrupt your sleep patterns, leaving you awake or waking you too early.
How to Sleep Better:
Establish an enjoyable bedtime ritual, avoid caffeine after lunch, and turn off electronics when you want to sleep. You might even discover that techniques like deep breathing or gentle stretching can help enhance your sleep patterns.
What You’ll Feel:
Cramps, often leading to unbearable period pain, are caused by the contraction of the uterus as it sheds its lining.
How to Take Control of PMS Symptoms
Healthy habits like regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and hydration play a key role in PMS relief. These habits can reduce pre-period symptoms like bloating and irritability, while also managing unbearable period pain.
A Balanced diet containing whole grains, lean proteins, and fruits and vegetables will help level out hormones, and reduce bloating and fatigue. Drinking loads of water helps flush out extra sodium and provides relief from bloating.
Exercise that does not necessarily have to be strenuous, such as brisk walking, yoga, may alleviate physical and emotional symptoms of PMS. Boosting endorphins activates your mood and reduces the perception of stress.
Controlling PMS is possible only with slight but suitable lifestyle alterations such as diet, activity level, and ways to create stress in life. Most of the symptoms of PMS can be controlled with these variations; however, if the symptoms become too overwhelming, reaching a healthcare provider makes sense. Knowing and fighting your PMS will take you on a path toward a healthier, more balanced life.
Every women’s reproductive journey begins with menarche, that is her first period, usually at the age of 12 to 15 years. This is probably the start of a monthly cycle where her body prepares for pregnancy. Every month the ovaries release the egg which further leads to menstruation if the egg isn’t fertilised.
As a woman moves through her 20s and 30s this cycle continues which plays a very important role in her health and fertility, and is a testament to her unique and special nature. But as she reaches her late 40s to early 50s the special journey begins to wind down. The menstrual cycle becomes irregular during perimenopause and then culminates in menopause where ovaries stop producing eggs completely.
This journey from menarche to menopause gives insight into the adaptability of women’s bodies. It sheds light on her special place of creation and celebrates the extraordinary gift of womanhood.
Menopause is defined as the phase in a women's life that marks the end of her menstrual cycle. This is a natural biological phenomenon where ovaries gradually decrease their production of reproductive hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Basically during menopause, estrogen and progesterone are the two hormones that are majorly affected. Let’s understand it better:
Menopause is a natural phase and it brings significant hormonal changes. The symptoms associated with menopause such as mood swings, sleep disturbances, hot flashes and weight gain are natural parts of this transition.
However many woman take hormonal pills and hormone replacement therapies to reduce symptoms. These treatments may provide temporary relief, but they can impact on the body's natural processes and may lead to adverse effects.
Risks of Hormone Replacement Therapy
The risks of HRT for menopause may vary from person to person depending on her age and the time between menopause onset and starting HRT. The potential risks of HRT include coronary artery disease, blood clots, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and certain cancers.
iThrive always recommends to follow natural remedies like balanced diet, pure and potent supplementation, physical exercise, and meditation to overcome symptoms.
If one still feels uncertain and believes something is off with health during this transition of menopause don’t hesitate to book a free consultation with iThrive.
Cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke, are the leading causes of death globally, accounting for approximately 17.9 million deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization. Factors that contribute to this cause of death primarily involve lifestyle, with diet being the major one. Other prevalence is also increasing in the light of urbanization and sedentary lifestyles; these include poor diet habits that lead to obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol-all major risk factors for heart disease.
Diet plays an important role in the prevention and management of heart disease. It is established that the main prevention of CVD and thus heart disease is through the consumption of a balanced diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Diets with high levels of processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats are major accelerators of heart-related complications.
A heart-healthy diet reduces such risk factors as high blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation - all sources of cardiovascular disease. Diet can greatly improve the efficiency of cardiovascular function as well as longevity.
Learn more about Omega-3 benefits: 7 Reasons Your Brain Loves Omega-3 Fatty Acids.
These foods can be incorporated significantly into reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and also promoting heart health.
A balanced intake of nutrients plays an essential role for optimal heart health. The essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants help support the cardiovascular system, further reducing the risks of developing heart disease by the reduction of inflammation, oxidative stress, and cholesterol levels.
Diets that are followed significantly reduce cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation and are related to a healthier heart
In general, diet plays a significant role in both the prevention and management of heart disease because it affects the major determinants, including cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation. Even though short-term dietary changes may prove to be of benefit in the short term, it is only when long-term adoption of healthful eating patterns, which constitutes whole foods, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, becomes possible that cardiac health is truly sustained, reducing the risk for cardiovascular diseases. A balanced diet consistently, therefore, forms the foundation for lasting heart wellness.
Alopecia means loss of hair. It is broadly classified into two types- Non scarring Alopecia (Most prevalent) and Scarring Alopecia. While non-scarring Alopecia is reversible, it is not possible to reverse scarring Alopecia. The three main types of non-scarring Alopecia are Alopecia areata, Androgenetic alopecia and Telogen effluvium. All the non-scarring Alopecias can be reversed with the help of Functional Nutrition. While the conventional hair loss treatment options focus only on managing symptoms, Alopecia requires diving deeper into the cause. A consultation with a functional nutritionist is a great option to treat Alopecia or any other chronic condition for that matter. Now, you might be wondering if hair loss can be treated with dietary interventions? The answer to this question is yes!!
Before we get into the hair loss treatment, let us understand Alopecia a little better. In the subsequent sections, we will be understanding three main types of Alopecia- Androgenetic Alopecia, Alopecia Areata and Telogen Effluvium.
Androgenetic alopecia, also known as hereditary alopecia is caused due to heredity. It is further divided into two types- male pattern hair loss and female pattern hair loss. It is the most common type of hair loss in men and women. Hair fall in male is in different regions such as at the top, on the sides by their ears, or in the front. Hair loss in females is throughout the entire scalp with very little effect on the frontal hairline.
Alopecia areata is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can cause hair loss in different parts of the body. The most common form of Alopecia areata is patchy hair loss on the scalp. Alopecia areata can begin at any age. However, around 80 % of individuals develop the signs before age 40. This condition is more common in females than in males. The root cause of Alopecia areata is inflammation. Moreover, oxidative stress also causes damage to the hair follicles.
The people that have other autoimmune conditions such as celiac disease, vitiligo, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are more susceptible to Alopecia areata. In such scenarios, nutritional approach becomes more crucial.
Telogen effluvium is a non-inflammatory, chronic or acute alopecia. More often than not, it is characterized by acute hair loss. It generally affects the complete scalp of individuals of all ages. The causes can be psychological stress, hormonal changes, postpartum, malnutrition, infection, metabolic disorders, endocrine disorder or side effects of medications. Hypothyroidism and low protein intake are also some of the major causes of Telogen effluvium. It is important to know that acute Telogen effluvium is self limiting and thus can be corrected if the causative agent is accurately identified and corrected.
The conventional hair loss treatments involve drugs that focus only on managing symptoms. The underlying cause remains untreated and thus there are higher chances of relapse. In addition to this, these medicines might have side effects. In many cases, it is required to use these medicines throughout life. This is because hair loss starts again once the drugs are discontinued. The combined result of this is increased reliance on drugs, not to mention the hole it leaves in the pockets of impacted individuals.
A functional nutrition approach is all about focusing on the root cause and not just symptom management. It involves hair loss treatment through nutrition, supplements and lifestyle changes.
Research shows that Androgenetic alopecia is associated with higher inflammatory index and lower antioxidant index scores. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition and thus has a deep correlation with inflammation and oxidative stress. Telogen effluvium is triggered by some hormonal changes, stress or nutritional deficiencies, all of which can be tackled with a functional nutrition approach.
Nutrition plays an important role in maintaining hair health. Deficiency of certain nutrients can lead to increased inflammation and oxidative stress. This ultimately leads to poor hair health. Some of the crucial nutrients to focus on are-
Antioxidants- Vitamin A, C and E help to deal with oxidative stress. Some good sources of Vitamin A are organ meats, sweet potatoes and carrots. Amla, guava, red bell pepper, oranges, grapefruit, and citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C.
Vitamin D- Low levels of vitamin D increase the risk of Alopecia areata. Rich sources of Vitamin D include mackerel, salmon, tuna and egg yolk. Apart from these, sunlight is also an excellent source of vitamin D. A good supplement can help to deal with hair loss.
Biotin (Vitamin B7)- Biotin plays an important role in maintaining hair and skin health. Organ meat, egg yolk, salmon, tuna, beans, lentils, avocado and walnuts are some foods that should be included in the diet to get adequate Biotin. Supplements are recommended to fulfill the body's requirements.
Niacin (Vitamin B3)- Niacin is the other member of the Vitamin B family that is essential for maintaining hair health. Rich sources of Niacin are poultry, tuna, and salmon. Plant based sources of niacin include legumes and brown rice.
Zinc- Inflammation in our body can be reduced by including zinc rich foods in our diet. As mentioned earlier, Alopecia has a close association with inflammation. Hence, adequate zinc levels are crucial for optimum hair health. Oyster, eggs and seafood are good sources of zinc. A good zinc supplement is recommended for the people struggling with Alopecia.
Iron- Inadequate levels of iron leads to hair loss. Hair loss is common in women with iron deficiency. Good sources of iron are organ meat, cooked leafy vegetables, moringa and halim seeds.
Probiotics and Prebiotics- Imbalance in gut or skin microbiome leads to increased inflammation. Balancing gut microbiome can help in correcting Alopecia caused due to autoimmune conditions and inflammation. Some good sources of prebiotics are bananas, apples, cherries, and tomatoes. A2 milk yogurt, coconut water kefir and kimchi are probiotics that can help in restoring the gut microbiome.
Protein- Hair is primarily made of keratin, a protein. Sufficient intake of protein is essential for optimum keratin production in hair follicles. Chicken, fish, eggs, legumes and pulses are some sources of protein that should be included in diet.
Hair loss treatment can be challenging but functional nutrition offers a holistic approach that addresses the root causes and supports overall health.Conventional treatment for alopecia increases the reliance on medications which once discontinued may start the problem again. By adopting dietary and lifestyle changes, alopecia and other diseases can be treated in a sustainable way.
The thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ located in the lower front of the neck, is a powerhouse for regulating the body’s metabolism. The thyroid gland has a potential impact on how our body converts food into energy, influencing everything from heart rate to weight.
Good thyroid health helps produce the right amount of hormones to keep metabolism running smoothly. However, when the thyroid malfunctions, it can lead to various health issues, including weight management problems. This blog will provide insight into the intricate relationship between thyroid health and weight management. The blog will also shed light on how thyroid disorders affect our weight and give practical advice to help you maintain a healthy balance if you are dealing with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or weight gain issues. If you want to heal with a functional nutrition approach, book a consultation with iThrive today and take the first step towards a healthier and happier you.
The thyroid gland produces primarily two hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a vital role in regulating the body’s metabolism.
· T3 and T4 increase the basal metabolic rate which is the amount of energy your body needs to maintain basic physiological functions at rest. This means they help in determining how quickly or slowly your body burns calories.
· These hormones also stimulate protein synthesis and increase the breakdown of fats to help maintain muscle mass and reduce fat stores.
· These hormones also influence the heart rate. For example, higher levels of thyroid hormones can increase your heart rate and make you feel warmer, while lower levels can slow your heart rate and make you feel colder.
· When the thyroid gland produces the right amount of T3 and T4 the body’s metabolism functions efficiently and helps in maintaining a healthy weight and energy levels.
Therefore, understanding the role of thyroid hormones provides insight into thyroid health in weight management.
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive and does not produce enough thyroid hormones, specifically free T3 and free T4 as per functional nutritional ranges. With insufficient thyroid hormones, the metabolic rate decreases, which means the calories burn very slowly and leads to weight gain even if the diet and physical activity levels remain the same. The calories that the body consumes are stored as fat rather than being used for energy. This, as a result, increases body fat, particularly around the abdomen. Hypothyroidism can also cause the body to retain fluids, contributing to weight gain and a feeling of bloating.
The common symptoms of hypothyroidism are:
Hypothyroidism is typically diagnosed through blood tests that measure the levels of ultrasensitive thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones (free T3 and free T4). Elevated TSH levels and T4 levels indicate hypothyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is overactive and produces lots of thyroid hormones, specifically high T3 and T4 but low TSH. Hyperthyroidism also increases the metabolism in the body, which means the calories burn very fast and lead to weight loss even if the diet and physical activity levels remain the same. Despite the increased calorie burn, some people dealing with it may feel hungrier and consume more food. Hyperthyroidism can also lead to muscle loss as our body breaks down muscle tissue for energy.
The common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are:
Hyperthyroidism is typically diagnosed through blood tests that measure the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones T3 and T4. High levels of T3 and T4 indicate hyperthyroidism.
· A proper and balanced diet is very important for supporting thyroid health and managing weight.
· Someone dealing with thyroid should avoid all inflammatory foods like bakery products, fried foods, sugar, alcohol, and packaged snacks. Consuming these foods can make your conditions worse. Therefore to deal with thyroid health one needs to focus on whole foods that are unprocessed and provide essential nutrients without empty calories. Some of the whole foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, etc.
· These people should also start incorporating lean protein into their meals. Some of the lean protein sources are chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes. Protein is very crucial for muscle maintenance.
· These people should start consuming seafood, as they are a good source of iodine, which plays a crucial role in thyroid hormone production.
· You should avoid all the dairy products, processed foods, and junk foods that are the main reason for the inflammation in the body.
· Physical activity is very important to heal your disease. Consistency in physical activities helps in managing weight and overall health.
· Engaging in cardio exercises like running, walking, and swimming can help burn calories faster for those who are dealing with hypothyroidism.
· Strength training helps those dealing with hyperthyroidism. Exercises like weightlifting or body weight help preserve muscle mass and boost metabolism.
· In today’s world, relying only on conventional medicine to treat thyroid cannot be the best approach.
· It is very important to focus on the root causes and not only on the symptoms. Consultation with iThrive can help you get the proper guidance towards your healing journey through a functional nutrition approach.
· They start working on your health by analyzing the root causes of your disease and provide customised protocol which includes supplementation guidance, diet recommendations, lifestyle interventions, continuous support, and much more.
The festive season comes up with joy, lights, and most importantly, delicious food. Indian festive celebrations are synonymous with preparing a variety of sweets, snacks, and other tempting dishes. A staple on the grocery list during this time is seed oil, as festive foods and seed oil go hand in hand.
We know oily foods taste great, but have you ever wondered if they're good for your health? With today’s generation becoming increasingly health-conscious, it’s crucial to understand the impact of seed oil on our bodies. This blog aims to provide insight on why seed oils are not good for your health and this festive season why you should try to avoid them. So don’t let these festive times affect your well-being.
The oils that are extracted from the seeds of certain plants, generally also called industrial seed oils, are very harmful to health. It is said anything natural is good to consume; however, industrial seed oils are heavily processed and refined, which makes them highly unhealthy fats such as omega-6 fatty acids and trans-fats. Also, the beneficial nutrients in their natural state are high, but as the seeds get processed, they start losing the beneficial nutrients and antioxidants.
According to the research, the most common industrial seed oil used in food products is soybean oil. During the festive season, it is mostly used to make chips, margarine, and other fried foods. Unfortunately, it contains a high amount of omega-6 fatty acids that are responsible for increasing inflammation within the body. Based on the studies carried out, excessive amounts of omega-6 fatty acids can cause genetic changes in the brain.
Corn oil is a popular industrial seed oil that is excessively refined and processed to vanish its natural flavor and color. Taking advantage of its no color and flavor, many business owners use it as a great option for frying foods. However, talking about the nutrition aspect, it is not worth it. Corn oil contains a high amount of unhealthy trans fats, which can raise bad cholesterol levels if consumed in excess.
This name sounds familiar to the oils you use in your kitchen. Am I right? But do you know that sunflower oil and peanut oil contains very little nutritional value as they are highly refined during processing. It is highly recommended to replace your seed oil today with the best substitute.
Safflower oil is the other common industrial seed oil that is widely used in food manufacturing plants. Although this seed oil is termed a slightly healthier option compared to other industrial seed oils, it contains a higher amount of PUFAs, which can be one of the reasons for increased inflammation in your body.
Palm oil has a high saturated fat content, which makes it one of the worst choices for consumption-especially its effects in the long run. Palm oil is also sold at lower costs compared to other oils, therefore, the local food industries use palm oil to optimize their production costs.
It is suggested to stay away from toxicity in your life, then why to let seed oils stay with you? Yes, they are the toxins, and they are the culprits in your life, and here is how they are going to make your health conditions worse. Let’s learn the seed oil health risks:
Seed oils are rich in omega-6 fatty acids. You may wonder if they are essential for health, but if consumed in excess, they can promote inflammation in your body. This inflammation can lead to certain heart diseases, arthritis, certain cancers, and many more.
Heart health and seed oils have a complex relationship. On one hand, it is found that polyunsaturated fats in seed oils can lower bad cholesterol levels, which is very vital for good heart health. However, on the other side, high omega-6 fatty acids in seed oils can increase inflammation and oxidative stress. This can contribute to the development of heart disease by promoting the buildup of fatty deposits in arteries that lead to atherosclerosis.
Seed oils have high calories and are often used in processed foods, which is linked with obesity and weight gain. The processed foods that we eat are generally low in nutrients and very high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt. Therefore, a combination of these can accelerate weight gain and metabolic issues in the body.
Our body’s metabolism depends on the food we eat. High consumption of seed oils can negatively impact metabolic health. As mentioned earlier, seed oils are rich in omega-6 fatty acids, which can contribute to insulin resistance. Also, consuming large amounts of processed foods and unhealthy fats can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which affects liver function and overall metabolic health.
Your celebrations should be joyful, and so should your health.
Industrial seed oils have a lot of fat and are very bad for your health. From our childhood, we have learned about healthy nutrients, carbohydrates, fats, and proteins that our body needs for energy, to absorb the vitamins, and to protect our metabolism.
Let’s learn about what types of fats are good for you.
1. Ghee
According to Ayurveda, ghee is a healthy source of edible fat. It is found that ghee has medium-chain fatty acids that can be utilized by our body quickly, and they get absorbed faster compared to seed oils.
Ghee has a lot of nutritional benefits and contains vitamins A, E, and K. Ghee is also known to enhance digestion by stimulating the secretion of stomach acids and aiding in the absorption of nutrients. Ghee is also very good for the skin and is used to treat burns, and moisturize skin due to its healing properties. Therefore, remember one thing: if you want to make your celebrations really healthy and happy, opt for ghee and say NO to seed oils.
2. Coconut oil:
Coconut oil is the oil that is extracted from the mature coconuts. Researchers say coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCT’s), which can be metabolized differently. Also, these medium-chain triglycerides are a quick source of energy and help in fat burning. Also, using coconut oil helps reduce calorie intake and control weight. Coconut oil also boosts brain functions, as the ketones are produced from MCTs in coconut oil.
Ingredients
Procedure
Recipe link: click here
Ingredients
Procedure
Recipe Video: Click here
The blog covers functional nutrition, chronic conditions, gut health, hormonal health, autoimmune conditions, sleep, mental health, and root cause analysis. Every article is written to help you understand what is actually happening inside your body, not just manage symptoms.
All articles are written by the content writers in collaboration with iThrive's clinical team of functional nutritionists, guided by the same methodology used in the ALIVE programme. The content is rooted in functional medicine and real clinical experience, not generic health advice.
No. The blog is an educational resource to help you understand your health more deeply. If you are experiencing symptoms or managing a chronic condition, a personalized Root Cause Analysis with a functional nutritionist is the right next step.
Book a Root Cause Analysis. For ₹2,500, a dedicated functional nutritionist will assess 60+ blood markers using optimal ranges and explain exactly what is driving your condition. It is the natural next step after reading about what might be happening in your body.
Yes. Many of our readers come with existing diagnoses and find the blog helps them understand why their condition developed and what their body actually needs. The articles are designed to give you clarity, not replace the guidance of a practitioner.
