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Lifestyle Diseases Poll 2016

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fwd life Lifestyle Diseases Poll 2016 main image

FWD conducted a survey featuring 100 men and women aged 16-60 to learn how well they knew about four major lifestyle-related ailments

Words by Likhitha P. Nair & Atheena Wilson       Photographs from Various Sources

Know thy enemy’ – this has stood true on a battlefield, and often in life. It applies to unexpected and calculated difficulties in certain circumstances; most prevalent in health conditions. For centuries man has had to fare a waging war against diseases. With the accidental advent of medicines, many lives were saved and health enhanced. However, when we finally found cures to several life-threatening ailments, our lifestyle and habits changed towards roads of ruin. From the food to work ,everything started to have adverse affects on our health, eating into our lives in the form of lifestyle diseases.

Sugar doesn’t get you high diabetes

Diabetes is characterised by irregularities in blood sugar level, which is brought about by the body’s incapability to process it. It is generally classified into four – Type 1, Type 2, pre-diabetes and gestational diabetes. In sync with what 78.1% of our target crowd believes, diabetes is most common in adults between 45 and 60 years of age. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 1.7 million new diabetes cases, and a majority of the patients belonged to this age group. While environmental factors may expedite onset of Type 1 diabetes, genetic susceptibility plays a major role in triggering Type 2. A 20.5% of the audience believe that stress could be a factor that caused the recent increase in diabetes patients. Mental stress causes a rise in blood sugar for Type 1 diabetes patients, while physical stress – like injury or a wound could have this effect on either kind of diabetes patients, which proves this assessment true. A 60.3% on the other hand believed that modern lifestyle is the reason for an increase in diabetes.

Awareness Levels

fwd life Lifestyle Diseases Poll 2016 sugar level checking graph

Nearly 44 lakh Indians in their most productive years — aged 20 to 79 years — aren’t aware that they are diabetic, a disease that exposes them to heart attack, stroke, amputations, nerve damage, blindness and kidney disease. While only 20% said that they would check diabetes at home using devices, almost 55% opted clinics or hospitals to be the place of diagnosis. Collectively a 22% of our audience believed that diet and exercise is a cure for diabetes, which was negated by experts. Exercise and diet almost always only supplements insulin or non-insulin medication provided for Type 1 and two diabetes, as believed by 74% of our target crowd. Constant monitoring and regulation of blood sugar is important.While only 9% believed that blood sugar needs to be checked daily in diabetes patients, the majority (50%) believed that it only needs to be checked once a month. It’s recommended that a diabetes patient on medication must check his/her blood sugar thrice daily!

Most welcomed treatment by people

74% Medicine intake (tablets/insulin)
15% Exercise
11% Diets

Heart of the Problem – Heart Diseases

The heart is arguably the most functional organ in our bodies. Since it does most of the work, a heart is the first organ to be affected by clumsy lifestyle and food habits, and this could prove to be fatal. Except for few congenital heart diseases, most of the other ailments are related to food intake, lack of exercise, substance abuse and stress. These could include stroke, cardiac arrest, peripheral artery disease and high blood pressure.

fwd life Lifestyle Diseases Poll 2016 (1)

Which heart condition often leads to heart diseases?

33% Coronary artery disease
62% Heart block
01% Enlarged heart
04% Other

fwd life Lifestyle Diseases Poll 2016 heart disease graph

Which is the most common heart disease?

18.1% Coronary artery diease
55.6% High blood pressure
19.4% Cardiac arrest
6.9% Stroke

The Cause of It

Of our samples, 55.6% believed high blood pressure to the most common type of heart disease, but this may not be true. According to the Californiabased CADI (Coronary Artery Disease among Asian Indians) Research Foundation, India has around 62 million heart patients in 2015, and most of them suffer from congestive heart failure, a condition characterised by the heart’s inability to pump blood to the body. This could happen due to the collection of fluids in the body and the onset is general between 40 to 60 years of age – as rightly pointed out by 82% of our audience. Heart diseases could cripple the body in multiple ways. But the most common symptom pointed out during the poll was chest pain and pressure by a majority of 75%. This condition – referred to as angina, causes a discomfort, heaviness, pressure, aching, burning, fullness, squeezing, or painful feeling in the chest.

Other Factors

There could be multiple causes for heart disease. The most common one, though, is a condition called ‘atherosclerosis’ – caused by the deposit of cholesterol plaque on the walls of the artery. This could lead to insufficient blood flow and hence a heart failure. Of the lot, approximately 15% believed smoking to be the most common reason. Smoking also increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, which includes coronary heart disease and stroke.

Dangerous Curves Ahead – Obesity

fwd life Lifestyle Diseases Poll 2016 body mass index

Perhaps, the most obvious one. But there’s been a major question of perception and whether the technical indicator is known. It’s hard to judge the difference between overweight and obese but 80% were aware that the body mass index for being obese is 30 and above. Looking into the causes we got some insights from Dr Sonia Suresh (MBBS, DNB). “The main problem with urban lifestyle, in general, is the fact that we consume too much food. Four full meals a day was fine when there was enough physical work in the daily routine. But today life is heavily mechanised, which means you don’t really need to take in as much food.”

fwd life Lifestyle Diseases Poll 2016 obesity graph

What are the accepted treatments for obesity?

4.5% Medication
94% Exercise and diet
0% Surgery
1.5% Other

With relation to Body Mass Index (BMI), which of the following considers a person to be obese?

17% BMI < 30
80% BMI > 30
03% Other

Knowing The Cause

The survey did not negate this. When asked about what causes obesity, the majority (47%) looked at the overall cause – inactive lifestyles compared to the narrowed view, improper food habits ( 44.3%), but a minority (5.7%) said that hereditary was also an important factor.

You Are What You Eat

There is much speculation on what has catapulted such drastic obesity over time. Dr Sonia explains, “ The traditional Indian diet is rich in starch. That is why limiting the quantity of intake is crucial.” In the study, 69.1% believed that fat is the major cause of obesity, while approximately 14% believed that complex carbohydrates are a cause and 13.2% believed that refined sugars are the major culprits. According to clinical trial, low–fat diets are high in carbohydrates that accelerate weight gain. And as per fat calories, they make you feel full sooner and you don’t have to eat more. But with carbohydrates, you eat more, which leads to fat storage. However, despite the cause being so confusing, the solution is quite simple – 94% agree that exercise and diet are the only ways to tackle obesity while a slim 4.5% agreed that medication is the best possible option.

fwd life Lifestyle Diseases Poll 2016

The Wrong Move – Arthritis

fwd life Lifestyle Diseases Poll 2016 most affected part graph

Arthritis is one of the most misunderstood diseases. Dr Alex Jacob, consultant orthopaedic surgeon, says: “Arthritis is associated with old age. There are various types of arthritis and can be divided into two main types – osteoarthritis, which is age-based and happens due to degeneration (occurs due to a birth defect or misalignment) and rheumatoid arthritis that can affect at any age.” In the survey, our samples show that women are the most affected (54.3%) which slightly mismatched with the concept that workers engaged in heavy duty are most prone to being affected (52. 9%). Though, 52.5% of the sample were convinced that rheumatoid arthritis was the most common type, only 14.5% believed that arthritis was hereditary. It was also evident that many believed arthritis is age-bound as no one believed arthritis could affect children. When asked what’s the most commonly affected joint, an overpowering majority (80%), mentioned that the knees. In tandem to such an assumption, a few factors tied in, such as climbing stairs and kneeling being the most difficult activity for those suffering arthritis.

Most common arthritis type

52% Rheumatoid arthritis
44% Osteoarthritis
04% Other

Being Active

When looked into the prevention and root cause, the survey sample had a very clear idea. As Dr Alex explains, “ Obesity and unhealthy habits can possibly lead to arthritis as well. Hence, I cannot stress enough the importance of being active.” A great percentage of the survey (35.3%) agreed that the most targeted people are office-goers. The survey showed 54.3% people saying workplace affected those suffering from arthritis and there was a fair share of reasoning that lifestyle activities contributed to it: Inactivity (48%) and inappropriate food habits (37%).When it comes to the factor of remedy, Dr Alex commented. “Keep your joint supple and moving. There is a misconception that arthritis is something that will have you house bound. But with the right medication, you can be active. Similarly, 47.7% of the sample agreed exercise is the best, while 34.3% would opt for allopathic medication and a slim 1.5% would resort to surgery.

Wellness

Embracing the Magic of Simple Walking Every Day

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In our modern, fast-paced world, where everything seems to be in constant motion, it’s easy to overlook the simple yet profound act of walking. Walking is not just a means of getting from point A to point B; it’s a gateway to a myriad of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. In this blog, we’ll explore the magic of simple walking every day and how it can transform our lives for the better.

Physical Health Benefits:

Walking is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, requiring no special equipment or membership fees. It strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Regular walking has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. It’s gentle on the joints and can be adapted to any fitness level, making it an ideal form of exercise for people of all ages.

Mental Clarity and Creativity:

Walking has a profound effect on our mental well-being. The rhythmic motion of walking can help clear the mind and reduce stress and anxiety. Many great thinkers, from Aristotle to Steve Jobs, have extolled the virtues of walking for sparking creativity and problem-solving. Studies have shown that walking in nature, known as “forest bathing,” can have a calming effect on the mind and improve cognitive function.

Connection with Nature:

Walking provides an opportunity to connect with the natural world, even if it’s just a stroll through a neighborhood park. Spending time outdoors has been shown to boost mood and increase feelings of vitality and happiness. Observing the changing seasons, listening to birdsong, and feeling the sun on your face can foster a sense of awe and wonder.

Social Connection:

Walking can be a social activity, whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll with a friend or joining a walking group in your community. Walking side by side with someone facilitates meaningful conversations and strengthens relationships. Even walking alone can create opportunities for serendipitous encounters with strangers and moments of connection.

Mindfulness and Presence:

Walking can be a form of moving meditation, allowing us to be fully present in the moment. Focusing on the sensations of walking – the rhythm of our breath, the feeling of our feet connecting with the ground – can bring us into a state of mindfulness and awareness. Walking mindfully can help us let go of worries about the past or future and find peace and contentment in the here and now.

In a world that often values speed and efficiency above all else, the simple act of walking reminds us to slow down, savour the moment, and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings. By incorporating regular walks into our daily routine, we can reap a multitude of physical, mental, and emotional benefits that enrich our lives in profound ways. So lace up your shoes, step outside, and discover the magic of simple walking every day.

 

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Beauty

Step by step Skin Prep for All Bride To Be

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Congratulations, bride-to-be! As you prepare for your big day, glowing skin is undoubtedly at the top of your wish list. Your wedding day is a celebration of love and commitment, and feeling confident in your own skin is essential. To help you achieve that coveted bridal glow, we’ve curated a comprehensive step-by-step skin prep guide just for you.

Start Early with a Consistent Skincare Routine

Begin your bridal skincare journey well in advance to allow your skin ample time to adjust and improve. Establish a daily skincare routine tailored to your skin type and concerns. This should include cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and sunscreen application. Consider incorporating serums or treatments targeting specific issues such as acne, hyperpigmentation, or dryness.

Address Specific Skin Concerns

Identify any specific skin concerns you want to address before your wedding day. Whether it’s acne breakouts, uneven skin tone, or dullness, consult with a dermatologist or esthetician to develop a targeted treatment plan. This may involve professional facials, chemical peels, or laser treatments to enhance your skin’s appearance and texture.

Hydration is Key

Hydrated skin is happy skin, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain optimal hydration levels. Additionally, incorporate hydrating skincare products such as hyaluronic acid serums or moisturizing masks to replenish moisture and plump up your skin.

Exfoliate Regularly

Regular exfoliation is essential for sloughing off dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, resulting in smoother, more radiant skin. Choose a gentle exfoliator suitable for your skin type and use it 2-3 times a week to reveal fresh, glowing skin underneath.

Don’t Forget About Your Lips

Soft, smooth lips are a must-have for any bride. Incorporate a lip scrub into your skincare routine to buff away dry, flaky skin, followed by a nourishing lip balm to keep your lips hydrated and kissable soft.

Prioritize Stress Management and Self-Care

Wedding planning can be stressful, but don’t let it take a toll on your skin. Practice stress-relieving activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to keep your mind and body in balance. Remember to prioritize self-care and make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Get Sufficient Beauty Sleep

Quality sleep is crucial for healthy, radiant skin. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to allow your skin to repair and regenerate. Invest in a silk pillowcase to minimize friction and prevent creases and wrinkles while you sleep.

By following this step-by-step skin prep guide, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a radiant bridal glow that will leave you feeling confident and beautiful on your wedding day. Remember to start early, be consistent with your skincare routine, and prioritize self-care throughout the process. With a little dedication and effort, you’ll be glowing from the inside out as you walk down the aisle to say “I do.”

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Beauty

Kiara Advani’s Soft Glam Makeup Look

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Kiara Advani is proof that a look may be beautiful without always requiring intense contouring and layers of makeup. The actor from Satyaprem ki Katha has a natural, luminous, and unquestionably head-turning approach to soft makeup that is worth emulating. Lekha Gupta, her makeup artist, created the ideal mix between a clean, glowing complexion and a subtle brown smoky eye. Whether it’s for her big day or multiple red carpet appearances, the actor has a reputation for doing minimalist makeup flawlessly.

Kiara Advani, wearing a body-hugging pink gown by Tran Hung, was spotted having a pink moment that was enhanced by her bold beauty appearance. Her face was defined by the delicately bronzed cheeks, her glossy nude lips completed the ensemble, and her gently smudged out makeup accentuated the shape of her eyes.

Lekha Gupta, the makeup artist, accentuated Advani’s eyes by using mascara to lend drama to the lashes. She gave Advani’s skin a dewy base and then defined the cheekbones with a warm, peachy bronzer. Her lips were covered in a glossy lip gloss that complemented the brightness of her pink costume, and her brows were nicely shaped and filled in. In terms of hair, the actor sported a glossy, blow-dried mane that had a contemporary centre part to complete the symmetry of the ensemble.

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