Some simple sodium salt reduction strategies can avert many disorders, says IMA

Some simple sodium salt reduction strategies can avert many disorders, says IMA Indian diet has changed over the years and it is imperative to reduce the consumption of processed food, which is high in sodium content New Delhi, 18th July 2017: As per a recent study, an average Indian consumes 10.98 grams of salt per day, which is 119% more than the recommended limit of 5 grams per day by the World Health Organization (WHO). An excess of salt can result in high blood pressure, which is a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and the resultant deaths. According to the IMA, making certain lifestyle changes and limiting the intake of dietary sodiumcan help avoid risk factors for these diseases. The Indian cuisine is high on salt. The "salt to taste" phrase becomes a misnomer in the Indian context what with its usage in curries, salads, and other dishes, and reaching extremely high levels in foods like pickles. Add to this the consumption of fast food and processed food, which further increases the chances of acquiring certain disorders. Speaking about this, Padma Shri Awardee Dr K K Aggarwal, National President Indian Medical Association (IMA) and President Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI) and Dr RN Tandon – Honorary Secretary General IMA in a joint statement, said, "The Indian diet has undergone a drastic change over the last many years. We eat less of pulses, fruits and vegetables, and the quantity of processed and fast foods is on the rise. This kind of diet is rich in salt, sugar, and harmful fats and therefore, the likelihood of high blood pressure, obesity, and CVDs is also on the rise in Indians today. With the fast-paced lives that we lead, there is no time to cook food at home and therefore, people prefer eating out. Instant food options are available everywhere but people do not make it a point to read the food labels and understand what the food items constitute. Many of these contain excess sodium salt which can be detrimental to our health.” About 40% sodium is found in common table salt. Sodium is used by the body in small amounts to maintain fluid balance. It is extremely imperative for diabetics to consume a diet low in salt because diabetic hypertensive patients can develop coronary artery disease or an enlarged heart. Adding further, Dr Aggarwal, said, “Packaged and prepared food is high on salt content. Salt is used as a preservative to make food taste good. Restaurant food is also high in salt as are certain food items masked as healthy. It is a good idea to read the nutrition facts mentioned on the label to gauge the amount of salt in it. With some effort, it is possible to adjust to eating less salt in 6 to 8 weeks”. Few strategies for sodium salt reduction are as follows. • Make reading food labels a habit • Stick to fresh foods rather than their packaged counterparts • Avoid spices and seasonings that contain added sodium • Check restaurant websites before dining out; request that your food be prepared without any added salt • Cook rice, pasta, and hot cereals without salt • Choose ready-to-eat breakfast cereals that are lower in sodium • Rinse canned foods to remove some sodium • Buy low-sodium, reduced-sodium, or no-sodium versions of foods • Do not put salt, even on the dining table • Avoid APC, Achar Papar Chatni, as all these are high in salt

Prevalence of thyroid disorders increasing in India

Prevalence of thyroid disorders increasing in India Women more likely to get affected, with increased risk of various side effects in pregnant women New Delhi, 07 July 2017: According to a recent report, about 32% of Indians suffer from various kinds of thyroid disorders including thyroid nodules, hyperthyroidism, goiter, thyroiditis, and thyroid cancer. The most prevalent form of thyroid disorders across the country is sub-clinical hypothyroidism, which is a milder form of hypothyroidism and what is more alarming is that it is a silent disease. It is often diagnosed by chance. Subclinical hypothyroidism is defined as serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) above the upper reference limit in combination with a normal free thyroxine (fT4). Thyroid diseases are more prevalent in women and can cause many problems including weight gain and hormonal imbalance. The chances of men suffering from thyroid disease are comparatively lesser. In the developed countries, the prevalence of thyroid disorders is about 4% to 5%. Speaking about this, Padma Shri Awardee Dr K K Aggarwal, National President Indian Medical Association (IMA) and President Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI) and Dr RN Tandon – Honorary Secretary General IMA in a joint statement, said, "Hypothyroidism can affect all organ systems. Genetics has a major role in determining thyroid hormones and TSH concentrations as well as susceptibility to autoimmune thyroid disease. Those with a family history are likely to be predisposed to thyroid abnormalities. Therefore, it is imperative for a person to be aware of their family’s medical history. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can cause elevated cholesterol levels, an increase in blood pressure, cardiovascular complications, decreased fertility, and depression. In pregnant women, this condition can increase the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and miscarriage." Adding further, Dr Aggarwal, said, "The need of the hour is to reach out and create awareness among people about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and importance of testing for thyroid problems. This is particularly significant for women as the incidence of acquiring this disease is more in them. Pregnant women or those planning to conceive should get themselves checked to ensure that their thyroid functions are normal." Here are some tips for those living with thyroid disorders. • Eat healthy Hypothyroidism is linked to weight gain. Thus, a person with this condition can find it difficult to lose weight. Consume a diet rich in fibre and low in fat to maintain a healthy weight. • Exercise Although it may be difficult to get moving in those with a sluggish thyroid, it is a good idea to push yourself to do some physical activity. • De-¬stress Stress is known to exacerbate thyroid disorders. Do something to reduce those stress levels. It could be yoga, meditation, dance, or anything.