Calcium plays an important role in keeping your bones and teeth strong. In fact, 99% of the body’s calcium is stored in these areas.When your body doesn’t get enough calcium, it starts taking it from your bones, which can lead to pain, weak bones, and even fractures.Symptoms of calcium deficiency include back and neck pain, joint cracking, tiredness, and trouble sleeping. So, it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough calcium.Why do we get calcium deficiency?Poor diet: If you don’t eat enough calcium-rich foods, you might become deficient.Poor absorption: Sometimes, your body can't absorb calcium properly because of weak digestion or medications.Lifestyle choices: Drinking too much tea, coffee, or eating sugary foods can also stop your body from absorbing calcium.So, here are 5 vegetarian foods that have more calcium than milk:1. Til (Sesame Seeds)Sesame seeds are packed with calcium. While 100 ml of milk has 125 mg of calcium, 100 grams of sesame seeds contain 975 mg—almost eight times more! Sesame seeds also contain magnesium, zinc, and a compound called sesamin, which helps protect cartilage and strengthen bones. You can add sesame seeds to dals, oatmeal, or even make ladoos with jaggery in winter.2. Kulthi Dal (Horsegram)Kulthi dal, or horsegram, is a great source of calcium. It has 300 mg of calcium per 100 grams. This dal also helps dissolve kidney and gallbladder stones. It’s a great addition to your diet, even though it takes a little longer to cook.3. Ragi (Finger Millet)Ragi is a fantastic source of calcium, with 100 grams containing 330 mg of calcium. It’s also high in potassium and iron. You can replace wheat flour with ragi flour to make soft rotis, or add it to dosa and idli batter for a calcium boost.4. Rajgira (Amaranth)Rajgira, also known as amaranth, contains about 340 mg of calcium per 100 grams. It’s not only rich in calcium but also contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a great protein source. Rajgira is also gluten-free and can be used in various recipes like chapatis or halwa.5.Drumstick leaves (Moringa)It has 440 mg of calcium per 100 grams. They are great for strong bones and teeth. You can use them in dals, soups, or parathas. Adding drumstick leaves to your meals is an easy way to boost calcium in your diet, especially if you are vegetarian.Adding these foods into your daily diet will help keep your calcium levels healthy and your bones strong.Source:-1. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/calcium-and-vitamin-d-important-bone-health 2. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/calcium-HealthProfessional/

Have you ever wondered why you should avoid maida or refined flour?What is Maida?Maida is made by grinding wheat into a fine powder and removing the bran and germ, which are rich in fiber and nutrients. What remains is mostly starch. To make it look bright white, chemicals are often added, which further reduce its nutritional value.Still have questions about Maida ? Gettrustworthy answers from verified sources onAsk Medwiki.Why is Maida Harmful?Low in Nutrients: Maida loses most of its fiber, vitamins, and minerals during processing. It provides calories but very little nutrition.Spikes Blood Sugar: Without fiber, maida is digested quickly, causing a sudden rise in blood sugar levels. This can increase the risk of diabetes, especially when consumed often.Leads to Weight Gain: Foods made with maida are high in calories but don’t keep you full for long, leading to overeating and weight gain.Causes Digestive Problems: Maida lacks fiber, which is important for healthy digestion. Regular consumption can lead to constipation and other digestive issues.Linked to Chronic Diseases: Eating too much maida has been associated with health problems like obesity, heart disease, and arthritis.What Are The Healthier Alternatives to Maida?Switching to healthier options can make a big difference.Whole Grains: Use whole wheat, oats, or millets for baking and cooking.Read Labels: Look for terms like “refined flour” or “maida” on packaged foods and choose whole-grain alternatives instead.Combine Flours: Mix maida with whole-grain flours when necessary to make recipes healthier.Remember, small changes in your diet can lead to big improvements in your well-being!Source:-1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8391170/ 2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6146358/

Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub that grows in Asia and Africa. It is commonly used as a stress reliever.Do you commonly include Ashwagandha in your routine? If not, watch our video on “Ashwagandha: Benefits and how safe it is” and include it for several health benefits.But do you know about Ashwagandha’s interactions with other medicines? Ashwagandha can interact with several types of medications, which may lead to side effects or reduced effectiveness.Still have questions about Ashwagandha ? Get trustworthy answers from verified sources on Ask Medwiki .Combining Ashwagandha with certain medicationsDiabetes Medications: Ashwagandha might lower blood sugar levels. If you're taking diabetes medication, combining it with ashwagandha could cause your blood sugar to drop too low.Do monitor your blood sugar closely.Blood Pressure Medications: Ashwagandha can also lower blood pressure. Taking it with blood pressure medication might cause your blood pressure to drop too low.Monitor your blood pressure closely.Medications that decrease the immune system (Immunosuppressants): Ashwagandha can boost the immune system, while some medications such as those used after a transplant might decrease the effects of these medications, reducing the effectiveness of the transplant medication.Sedative Medications: Ashwagandha and sedative medications can both cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Combining them together, might lead to breathing problems or excessive sleepiness.Thyroid Hormone Medications: Ashwagandha might increase thyroid hormone production. Taking it with thyroid hormone pills could lead to too much thyroid hormone in your body.If you're planning to take ashwagandha while on any medication, it's important to consult your doctor first. They can assess your specific situation and advise you on potential interactions and precautions.Source:- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/953.html

Millets are among the oldest crops in the world and offer several health benefits.These grains, such as ragi, bajra, and jowar, have been a part of traditional diets for centuries. However, in recent years, they have gained attention for their nutritional value.Let's explore why millets are so beneficial for our health:Rich in Nutrients: Millets are packed with essential nutrients, including calcium, dietary fiber, and protein. They are also one of the grains with the highest protein content. This makes them an excellent choice for maintaining a healthy body.Low Glycemic Index: Millets have a low glycemic index, which means they release glucose slowly into the bloodstream. This helps control hunger and prevents overeating, making them a great choice for people with diabetes.Gluten-Free: Millets do not contain gluten, a protein found in wheat and other grains. This makes them a good option for people with gluten intolerance or those who suffer from digestive issues.Digestive Health: Millets are known for their ability to help with digestive problems like acidity. Their alkaline nature helps maintain the pH balance of the stomach, making them gentle on the digestive system.Rich in Antioxidants: Millets contain antioxidants and phytochemicals that can help prevent diseases like cancer. The phenolic acid present in millets may reduce the risk of colon and breast cancer, and their high fiber content helps reduce the chances of breast cancer in women.Heart Health: Millets are good for heart health. They help in reducing bad cholesterol and improving overall heart health by preventing the formation of free radicals, which can clog arteries and lead to heart attacks. They also help in lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of strokes.Diabetes Management: Millets are particularly beneficial for people with diabetes. Due to their high fiber content, they digest slowly, which helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that replacing rice-based breakfasts with millet-based ones can help lower post-meal blood sugar levels.Adding millets to your diet can improve your health in many ways.Source:- http://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11091339/

Ashwagandha, an evergreen shrub contains chemicals that might help in calming the brain, reduce swelling, lower blood pressure, and alter the immune system. Ashwagandha is traditionally used for many conditions related to stress. It is believed to help the body resist physical and mental stress.Benefits of Ashwagandha:Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Several studies have shown that ashwagandha helps in lowering the stress hormone, known as cortisol that significantly reduces stress and anxiety levels as well as promotes relaxation.Enhances sleep: Many people take ashwagandha to promote restful sleep, and some evidence suggests it may help with sleep issues.Improved Cognitive Function: Ashwagandha enhances cognitive function. It helps in improving memory, focus and attention span.Boosts Immunity: Ashwagandha has immune-boosting properties. It may help modulate the immune response and protect against infectionsEnhances Fertility: Ashwagandha is an effective herbal remedy for stress and infertility. It improves blood circulation throughout the body and enhances sperm quality naturally.Is Ashwagandha intake safe?Ashwagandha is possibly safe when used for up to 3 months. The long-term safety of ashwagandha is still not known. However, it has been seen that large doses of ashwagandha might cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. Some problems related to liver like severe liver failure and a need for liver transplant is also very rarely seen.While ashwagandha is generally safe, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before using it.Source:- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/953.html

Winter is here! To stay healthy during the colder months, it is important to strengthen our immune system. Eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough sleep are great ways to do this.Here are some foods to help you build immunity this winter:Blueberries: Blueberries have antioxidant properties that boosts the immune system. They contain a type of flavonoid called anthocyanin, which plays an essential role in building the respiratory tract immune system.Adding a handful of blueberries to your morning oatmeal or smoothie can really give your immune system that extra kick!Dark Chocolate: Besides being a treat for your taste buds, dark chocolate contains an antioxidant called theobromine. This antioxidant helps protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to illness. Just remember, moderation is key. A small piece of dark chocolate can give you the benefits without overdoing it.Broccoli: Broccoli is one rich source of Vitamin C. It also contains antioxidants, such as sulforaphane which can support the immune system. Lightly steaming broccoli keeps its nutrients intact, so try adding it as a side dish to your dinner to get the maximum benefits!Spinach: Another leafy green that’s great for winter is spinach. Packed with nutrients like Vitamin C, flavonoids, and carotenoids, spinach not only boosts immunity but also helps prevent common colds. Make sure to cook it just a little to keep its goodness intact. You can add spinach to your soups, curries, or even a warm winter salad.Red Bell Pepper: Did you know they contain even more Vitamin C than oranges? That’s right! Vitamin C is a key player in building immunity, and red bell peppers are loaded with it. Stir-frying or roasting red bell peppers is a great way to preserve their nutrients and flavor—making them a delicious addition to any winter meal.Oranges or Kiwifruit: Oranges and kiwis are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is the vitamin that many people turn to when they feel a cold developing. Vitamin C helps in reducing the duration of common cold symptoms and improves the function of the human immune system.Including these fruits in your breakfast or enjoying them as a snack can make a big difference in keeping those winter sniffles at bay.These 6 foods—blueberries, dark chocolate, broccoli, spinach, red bell peppers, oranges, and kiwifruit—are not only delicious but are also powerful allies in building your immunity this winter. So, make sure to include them in your diet and stay strong against the seasonal colds.Source:- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322412#which-foods-boost-the-immune-system

Wheezing can make it difficult to breathe, and it’s often a sign of airway inflammation. If you’re looking for relief, you don’t always need expensive medications. There are simple home remedies that can help.Here are five effective ways to ease wheezing naturally.Steam TherapyInhaling steam is one of the easiest ways to clear your airways. It helps reduce inflammation and loosens mucus. Just breathe in steam from a bowl of hot water for 10 minutes. You can even add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for extra help.Honey and Warm WaterHoney has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Mixing it with warm water can soothe your throat and reduce wheezing. Studies show that honey helps calm coughs and throat irritation, making it easier to breathe.Ginger TeaGinger is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. It can help open up your airways and reduce wheezing. Drinking ginger tea or chewing on fresh ginger can provide quick relief.GarlicGarlic is a natural remedy for improving respiratory health. It can help reduce inflammation and improve airflow. Add garlic to your meals or make garlic tea for extra lung support.Breathing ExercisesSometimes, all you need is a few minutes of focused breathing. Deep breathing exercises help expand your lungs and improve airflow. It’s a simple way to reduce wheezing and improve your breathing overall.These home remedies are simple to try and can provide immediate relief. If wheezing continues or gets worse, it’s important to see a doctor.But these simple remedies can make a difference in how you feel every day.Source:- 1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10541225/ 2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482454/

Your little one's cough can be a real worry.5 natural remedies that can help soothe your child’s throat and ease their cough 1.Ginger: Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties which eases dry and asthmatic cough. It may also help in relieving nausea and pain.Give ginger tea or few drops of ginger juice with 1 spoon of honey 2.Steam: A wet cough, that produces mucus, may improve with steam.Give a hot shower or bath to your child and allow the bathroom to fill with steam. Let your child be in that steam for a few minutes until symptoms subside.Fill a large bowl with hot water. Adding herbs or essential oils like eucalyptus or rosemary helps relieve congestion. Make the child lean over the bowl and place a towel over the head to trap the steam and let the child breathe in for about 10 to 15 minutes.Need more clarity about your child’s cough? Our trusted health assistant is here to help you – only on Ask Medwiki.Steaming is helpful for cough and cold in children done one to two times per day. 3. Saltwater Gargle: Saltwater gargle has been used to help relieve sore throat and symptoms as it loosens mucus and relieves some pain.Stir ½ teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and dissolve it completely. Make your child take a sip of saltwater, ask them to let it sit at the back of the throat for a few moments before spitting it out.Doing this several times each day until the cough improves. 4. Bromelain: Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple, has anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties which breaks down the mucus and removes it from the body.Give pineapple juiceGive Bromelain supplements (it is always better to consult your doctor before trying a new supplement). 5. Probiotics: Though probiotics may not directly relieve cough, they may boost the immune system by improving gut health. A healthy immune system can help to fight off infections that may be causing the cough.Lactobacillus, one type of probiotic, benefits in preventing the common cold. Supplements containing Lactobacillus and other probiotics are available at medical stores.Some foods like Miso Soup and Yoghurt are also naturally rich in probiotics.It may be best to give probiotic supplements in addition to probiotic-rich foods.Try these simple home remedies and let your child fight against cold and cough infections.Source:-https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322394#natural-cough-remedies