Dealing With a Sedentary Life

How to deal with a sedentary life

Author: Dr. Shweta Wazir MD, DGO, MBBS
Consultant:  Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital Gurgaon

Modern advances make our lives easier, but they’ve led many of us to adopt a more sedentary lifestyle. Much of our lives require us to stop moving. Moving less and sitting more is linked to several health conditions and is believed to be a significant cause of the obesity epidemic.

Take a second to see how your day looks. If it’s working at a desk or in one place, followed by home, then dinner, TV and bed, is it any wonder you can’t fit in any exercise? 

The risks posed by a sedentary lifestyle have made people more aware of how to prevent them. We become more active in finding ways to work more efficiently and perform tasks more conveniently. Today’s trends at work and home are demanding. That’s why it is crucial to find ways to prevent the adverse effects of sedentary living. 

Tips you Should Consider To Avoid A Sedentary Lifestyle 
Keeping an active lifestyle is one of the major ways to keep yourself away from the perils of a sedentary lifestyle. Check the following tips and apply them in your daily living to achieve an active and healthier way of living.

  • Choose to stay healthy and fit. Be aware of how to keep your body fit and healthy. Choose healthy foods and drinks. Have regular exercise to keep yourself feeling active. 
  • Take a walk or go cycling when going to your work. If you can reach your workplace in a matter of minutes, take a walk instead of riding in a vehicle. Cycling can also help to keep you moving. This will also help you avoid being stagnant and keep moving.
  • Do some types of stretching. You can do it while you’re at your desk or while at home before doing some chores. By doing some stretching, you can keep good circulation throughout the body. 
  • Gain the benefits of standing desks, converters, or sit-stand desks. More and more companies are getting on the benefits of applying ergonomics in the workplace. This includes utilising ergonomic equipment such as wobble chairs, standing desks, and converters. They are proven to lessen the adverse effects of a sedentary lifestyle.
  • Instead of calling or sending an email, you can do it by delivering the message to your colleagues. If you have something to tell your workmates about work, you can walk around the office and tell them. This can be another technique to keep yourself moving. 
  • Try not to have lunch while working at your desk. Do not miss your lunch to keep you physically and mentally active the whole day.
  • Take a break for 5-10 minutes. A job can be overwhelming throughout the day due to deadlines and tedious tasks to be completed. It is imperative to take a 10-minute break to avoid too much strain.
  • Have a standing meeting. Usually, meetings can last for several hours; thus, sitting can be for hours, too. This is the reason why standing during meetings is also promoted. 
  • Take the stairs instead. Using the stairs instead of the elevators is smarter to keep you more active. You can make it a habit, so this can be a simple yet effective health routine. 

Keeping yourself away from a sedentary lifestyle can be both a daunting and exciting experience. Be responsible and consistent in doing things that will help you avoid the adverse effects of being sedentary. Make sure to get updated on the current trends and innovations, so you’ll not miss the strategies on how to stay comfortable and healthy at work and at home.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Gurgaon. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do make an appointment with the best womancare hospital in Gurgaon at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Shweta Wazir, please book your appointment here.

Understanding the Impact of Seasonal Flu on Pregnant Women and Unborn Babies

Flu symptoms during pregnancy

Author: Dr. Manju Gupta MBBS, MGO, FGO, DGO
Consultant:  Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Noida

As an expecting mother, taking care of your health and well-being is of utmost importance for the proper development of your unborn baby. During flu season, it becomes even more critical to understand the potential impact of seasonal flu on pregnant women and their babies. In this article, we will explore the implications of flu during pregnancy and the steps that can be taken to safeguard both maternal and fetal health. 

The Vulnerability of Pregnant Women to Seasonal Flu

Pregnant women are more susceptible to infections due to the natural changes in their immune system. These changes, although designed to protect the developing baby, can also make expectant mothers more prone to viral illnesses such as the flu. Additionally, the increased demands on the body during pregnancy, coupled with respiratory and cardiovascular changes, can exacerbate the severity of flu symptoms in pregnant women.

Potential Risks to the Unborn Baby 

When a pregnant woman contracts the flu, there can be potential risks to the unborn baby. Some of the complications associated with maternal flu may include:

Preterm Birth: In severe cases, the flu can trigger preterm labor, leading to premature birth. Premature babies may face health challenges and require specialized care.

Low Birth Weight: Maternal flu can affect the baby’s growth and lead to low birth weight, which may increase the risk of health issues in infancy and beyond.

Birth Defects: While rare, some studies suggest a link between severe maternal flu and certain birth defects. It is important to emphasize that the overall risk of birth defects due to flu is low.

Protective Measures for Pregnant Women Flu Risks For Pregnancy Woman

Taking proactive steps to prevent seasonal flu is essential for the well-being of pregnant women and their babies. Here are some guidelines to consider:

Flu Vaccination: The flu vaccine is safe for pregnant women and is recommended during pregnancy. It not only protects the mother but also provides immunity to the baby during the first few months of life.

Good Hygiene Practices: Regularly washing hands with soap and water, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and refraining from touching the face can help reduce the risk of flu transmission.

Staying Away from Sick Individuals: If possible, pregnant women should avoid close contact with individuals who have flu-like symptoms.

Seeking Early Treatment: If a pregnant woman experiences flu symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or fatigue, she should seek medical attention promptly.

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional 

Pregnant women should promptly seek medical advice if they experience flu-like symptoms, especially if they are having difficulty breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion, or severe dehydration. Timely medical intervention can prevent complications and safeguard both maternal and fetal health.

Conclusion

Understanding the potential impact of seasonal flu on pregnant women and unborn babies is crucial for taking appropriate preventive measures and seeking timely medical care if needed. By staying informed and following the guidelines provided by healthcare professionals, expectant mothers can ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy for themselves and their precious little ones.

Remember, the best defense against the flu during pregnancy is a combination of proactive measures and seeking medical attention when necessary. Together, we can protect the health of expectant mothers and contribute to the well-being of future generations.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best woman care in Noida. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do make an appointment with the best maternity hospital at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Manju Gupta, please book your appointment here.

Flu during Pregnancy: Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention Strategies

Flu Vaccination During Pregnancy

Author: Dr.Manisha Ranjan MBBS, MGO, FGO, DGO
Consultant:  Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Noida

Pregnancy is an incredible journey for any woman, filled with anticipation and joy. However, it is also a time when one’s immune system can be compromised, making expectant mothers more vulnerable to infections, including the flu. In this article, we will explore the risks, symptoms, and essential prevention strategies to safeguard both the health of the mother and the unborn baby during flu season.

Understanding the Risks of Flue During Pregnancy

Flu Risks For Pregnancy Woman
Contracting the flu during pregnancy can pose significant risks to both the mother and the developing fetus. Pregnant women are at a higher risk of experiencing severe complications due to changes in their immune system, heart, and lungs. These complications may include pneumonia, dehydration, and even preterm labor.

Additionally, the flu virus can potentially affect the baby’s health, leading to birth defects or preterm birth. It is, therefore, crucial for pregnant women to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the flu virus.

Recognizing Flu Symptoms during Pregnancy

The symptoms of flu during pregnancy are similar to those experienced by non-pregnant individuals. Common signs of the flu include:

  • High fever (generally above 100.4°F or 38°C)
  • Body aches and fatigue
  • Cough and sore throat
  • Headache and chills
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Prevention Strategies

Flu Vaccination: The most effective way to prevent the flu during pregnancy is by getting a flu vaccine. The flu shot is safe for pregnant women and provides protection for both the mother and the baby. It is recommended that pregnant women receive the flu vaccine during flu season, regardless of their trimester.

Hygiene and Handwashing: Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is crucial in reducing the risk of flu transmission. Avoid touching the face, especially the eyes, nose, and mouth, as the virus can enter the body through these areas.

Avoiding Close Contact: Pregnant women should avoid close contact with individuals who are sick, and if possible, maintain a safe distance from people who have flu-like symptoms.

Covering Coughs and Sneezes: Use a tissue or the crook of the elbow to cover coughs and sneezes to prevent the spread of flu germs.

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Adequate rest, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can help boost the immune system and improve overall health during pregnancy.

Seeking Early Medical Attention: If flu-like symptoms develop, pregnant women should seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and management can help prevent complications.

Conclusion 

Pregnancy is a unique time when extra care is essential to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Protecting oneself from the flu virus is a vital step in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. By following preventive strategies and considering the benefits of flu vaccination, expectant mothers can reduce the risks associated with the flu and embrace this beautiful phase of life with greater peace of mind.

As a healthcare provider at Motherhood Hospital Noida, I encourage all pregnant women to take proactive measures and seek medical advice promptly if they suspect flu symptoms. Together, we can ensure a safe and healthy journey through pregnancy.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best woman care in Noida. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do make an appointment with the best maternity hospital at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Manisha Ranjan, please book your appointment here.

Keeping Fit With a Colourful Plate Of Fruits And Veggies

Author: Dt. Arti Singh MSc – Nutritional Science
Consultant:  Nutritionist & Dietician at Motherhood Hospital Kharghar, Mumbai 

Diagnosing diseases early through regular screening tests is the best defence for treating the disease. It can be hard to keep up with the demands of everyday life, especially if you feel pulled in numerous directions. But the one place you shouldn’t cut corners involves your preventive care. Regular health checks keep potential health issues at bay and nip any developing problems in the bud. In some cases, they can even save lives since issues such as breast cancer can be treated early, and preventive measures can be taken. 

It is essential to see your doctor for regular health checks. The checks can pick up early signs of disease or illness so that you will get treatment earlier. A general check-up is recommended once a year. If you are at higher risk of a disease or condition, you may need to get checked more often.

Health screening monitors your well-being

Unlike scheduling an appointment because of a cold or flu, you must have health screenings to monitor your overall health and wellness. 

These screenings vary based on your age and individual needs, but they always focus on the following:

  • Screening for medical issues 
  • Establishing a baseline for your general health 
  • Assessing your risk of future medical issues 
  • Encouraging a healthy lifestyle 
  • Updating vaccinations
  • Building a trusted relationship with your provider

Health screening checks for many things 

These screenings focus on your unique healthcare needs, especially your gynaecological health. The health checks are tailored to your age and lifestyle but always capture vital signs, such as weight, height, pulse, and blood pressure. These measurements help give general insights into your overall health. 

Based on your age and sexual activity, the following also need to be performed: 

  •  A physical exam 
  • Internal and external genital exam
  • HIV and Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) testing
  • Preventive screenings for cervical cancer or breast cancer

These health screenings also allow you to share any concerns about your health. These conversations can also help you build a relationship with your doctor.

Health screenings evolve along with you

Not only can health exams detect serious problems – such as cervical cancer – before you may notice any symptoms, but they can help you feel your best at every stage of life. That’s because your health screenings evolve with your unique needs. For example, you may have questions about your period or body changes when you start puberty. This can also be a good time to get the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which can protect you from STDs. Once you become sexually active, your health screenings will become a safe place to discuss healthy sexual relationships, birth control methods, and STD prevention and testing. And, as you prepare for pregnancy, these appointments can focus on having a healthy pregnancy. And, if you no longer want to have children, you can discuss more permanent birth control options. Finally, your health screenings will evolve as you move out of your reproductive years, from perimenopause to menopause and beyond. 

Preventive health checks

Screening for ultrasound, Pap smear, and a mammogram is an important part of preventive healthcare for women. It can detect potential health issues early, prevent the development of certain health conditions, assess an individual’s risk, and provide education and empowerment for individuals to take control of their health. 

Make health screening a priority
It’s easy to make excuses to skip your check-up. However, it would help if you considered this visit a nonnegotiable meeting you cannot miss. Your health should be your number one priority. Start treating it that way and schedule your visits.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best woman care in Whitefield, Bangalore. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do make an appointment with the best woman care hospital in Whitefield, Bangalore at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Nirmala M, , please book your appointment here.

Importance Of Regular Check-Ups And Screenings

Author: Dt. Arti Singh MSc – Nutritional Science
Consultant:  Nutritionist & Dietician at Motherhood Hospital Kharghar, Mumbai 

Diagnosing diseases early through regular screening tests is the best defence for treating the disease. It can be hard to keep up with the demands of everyday life, especially if you feel pulled in numerous directions. But the one place you shouldn’t cut corners involves your preventive care. Regular health checks keep potential health issues at bay and nip any developing problems in the bud. In some cases, they can even save lives since issues such as breast cancer can be treated early, and preventive measures can be taken. 

It is essential to see your doctor for regular health checks. The checks can pick up early signs of disease or illness so that you will get treatment earlier. A general check-up is recommended once a year. If you are at higher risk of a disease or condition, you may need to get checked more often.

Health screening monitors your well-being

Unlike scheduling an appointment because of a cold or flu, you must have health screenings to monitor your overall health and wellness. 

These screenings vary based on your age and individual needs, but they always focus on the following:

  • Screening for medical issues 
  • Establishing a baseline for your general health 
  • Assessing your risk of future medical issues 
  • Encouraging a healthy lifestyle 
  • Updating vaccinations
  • Building a trusted relationship with your provider

Health screening checks for many things 

These screenings focus on your unique healthcare needs, especially your gynaecological health. The health checks are tailored to your age and lifestyle but always capture vital signs, such as weight, height, pulse, and blood pressure. These measurements help give general insights into your overall health. 

Based on your age and sexual activity, the following also need to be performed: 

  •  A physical exam 
  • Internal and external genital exam
  • HIV and Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) testing
  • Preventive screenings for cervical cancer or breast cancer

These health screenings also allow you to share any concerns about your health. These conversations can also help you build a relationship with your doctor.

Health screenings evolve along with you

Not only can health exams detect serious problems – such as cervical cancer – before you may notice any symptoms, but they can help you feel your best at every stage of life. That’s because your health screenings evolve with your unique needs. For example, you may have questions about your period or body changes when you start puberty. This can also be a good time to get the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which can protect you from STDs. Once you become sexually active, your health screenings will become a safe place to discuss healthy sexual relationships, birth control methods, and STD prevention and testing. And, as you prepare for pregnancy, these appointments can focus on having a healthy pregnancy. And, if you no longer want to have children, you can discuss more permanent birth control options. Finally, your health screenings will evolve as you move out of your reproductive years, from perimenopause to menopause and beyond. 

Preventive health checks

Screening for ultrasound, Pap smear, and a mammogram is an important part of preventive healthcare for women. It can detect potential health issues early, prevent the development of certain health conditions, assess an individual’s risk, and provide education and empowerment for individuals to take control of their health. 

Make health screening a priority
It’s easy to make excuses to skip your check-up. However, it would help if you considered this visit a nonnegotiable meeting you cannot miss. Your health should be your number one priority. Start treating it that way and schedule your visits.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best woman care in Whitefield, Bangalore. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do make an appointment with the best woman care hospital in Whitefield, Bangalore at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Nirmala M, , please book your appointment here.

how-technology-affects-womens-health

Author: Dr. Nirmala M MBBS, MS
Consultant:  Obstetrician, Gynecologist & Fertility Specialist at Motherhood Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore

There is a rainbow of fruits and vegetables that offer several health benefits! Fruits and vegetables get their colours from phytochemicals and may help to prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. 

Additionally, the colours of the fruits and vegetables we eat can hint at their nutritional value. For example, dark leafy greens are a good source of folate. At the same time, red and orange fruits and vegetables are often a good source of Vitamin A. Eating a rainbow of colourful fruits and vegetables can help provide vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients needed for a healthy, well-balanced diet such as antioxidants, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, and fibre. 

Following are some factors that can affect your blood sugar levels. Include as many plant-based colours in your meals and snacks as possible to get started. Each colour provides various health benefits, and no colour is superior to another, so a balance of all colours is most important. Getting the most phytonutrients also means eating colourful skins, the richest sources of phytonutrients, and paler flesh. 

Avoid peeling foods like apples, peaches and eggplant, lest you lose their most concentrated source of beneficial chemicals. When we eat plant foods, phytonutrients protect us from chronic diseases. Phytonutrients have potentanti-cancer and anti-heart disease effects. And epidemiological research suggests that food patterns that include fruits and vegetables are associated with a reduced risk of many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, and may be protective against certain types of cancers. Listed below are some examples of fruits and vegetables that fall into the five main colour groups: 

Red: Strawberries, blood oranges, grapefruit, cranberries, watermelon, red apples, raspberries, cherries, tomatoes, pomegranate, red grapes, beets, red peppers, radishes, red onions, tomatoes, rhubarb. 

Yellow/Orange: Lemon, pineapples, mangoes, corn, oranges, persimmons, nectarines, tangerines, apricots, papayas, cantaloupe, peaches, carrots, butternut squash, pumpkin, yellow summer squash, sweet potatoes, and yams.

White: White nectarines, white peaches, bananas, cauliflower, garlic, ginger, mushrooms, onions, parsnips, potatoes, turnips and white corn. 

Green: Pears, green apples, limes, avocados, honeydew, kiwis, green grapes, broccoli, artichokes, arugula, asparagus, brussels sprouts, green beans, cabbage, celery, cucumbers, lettuce, green onions, okra, peas, green peppers, snow peas, spinach, and zucchini.

Blue/Purple: Purple grapes, blackberries, plums, blueberries, boysenberries, raisins, eggplant, and purple cabbage. 

Get closer to eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables by trying something new from the suggested list in your next meal or snack. 

Although many experts differ on what food is the most nutritious or has the most antioxidants and disease-fighting capabilities, eating a well-balanced diet with various fruits and vegetables is essential. Regular exercise, portion control, and getting your daily dose of these ‘superfoods’ can help keep you in tip-top shape and ready for the warm weather that lies ahead.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Kharghar,Mumbai. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do make an appointment with the best maternity hospital in Kharghar, Mumbai at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dt. Arti Singh, please book your appointment here.

Strengthening The Harmony And Balance In Mind, Body And Soul

Author: Dr. Sonal Singhal MBBS, MD
Consultant:  Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital Gurgaon

People usually neglect and ignore their inner self. When it comes to holistic fitness of a being, people are no more “interconnected between mind, body and soul”. The phrase “mind, body, and soul” refers to the connection and relationship between these three aspects of yourself.

Mind. Your mind is your thinking mind (both conscious and unconscious) that is responsible for your beliefs, thoughts, and actions.

Body. Your body is the physical aspect of yourself that carries you through life and allows you to experience the world through your five senses.

Soul. Your soul or spirit is that intangible part of you that you might refer to as your essence.

You have probably heard of the mind-body-soul connection, but might not be sure what it means and how it affects your wellbeing. Mind-body-soul means that our wellness comes not just from physical health, but from mental health and spiritual health as well. To be “healthy,” we must pay attention to all three aspects of our nature. 

Here are a few tips to help balance your mind, body and soul.

  • Exercise: Find an exercise that you enjoy. Exercise boosts mood by pumping oxygen into the brain and releasing feel good endorphins.

  • Feeling grateful: Start appreciating the things you have in your life. The health benefits of gratitude and the very simple act of it can help relieve stress, strengthen social relationships and more.

  • Sleep well: Sleep helps regenerate your body. The more you sleep, the better you are the next day.

  • Deep breathing: Develop the habit of deep breaths throughout the day. Deep breathing helps in stress relief, lower blood pressure and more focus.

  • Yoga: One exercise which is good for mind and body. Yoga is a perfect one to bring harmony and balance in mind, body and soul.

  • Smile more: Smiling helps you feel great and make you feel happier and stress free.

  • Chase your passions: Doing what you love the most can help you bring in a perfect harmony to your own self. It keeps you occupied and stress free.

  • Meditate: This is the time when you need to rest your mind. Start with a small duration and make it a regular practice.

  • Spend time with nature: Getting out in green space can help lower your risk of developing certain neurological conditions and also maintain a stress-free life.

  • Eat plenty of greens: Dark, leafy greens are rich in vitamins and minerals. Consuming these will help you tone down your body and keep it healthy.

A holistic approach to wellbeing involves bringing these three aspects of the self into balance to create harmony and health.As we become balanced and harmonious, the unavoidable pressures of life have less impact on us. We respond to situations more consciously, and our interactions with people & situations become more purposeful, calm and relaxed. We feel union and 

harmony everywhere, whether it’s an office meeting, a small talk with our kids, or a social affair. Our outer world reflects the same perspective that we feel in our harmonious inner world. Live up, connect the elements of your existence and find more meaning from life.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best woman care in Gurgaon. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do make an appointment with the best woman care hospital in Gurgaon at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Sonal Singhal, please book your appointment here.

Healthy Eating And Women

Author: Dr. Archana Dubey MBBS, MS (OBG)
Consultant: Gynecologist, Infertility and Laparoscopy at Motherhood Hospital Indore

Choosing healthy foods and drinks more often can help prevent or manage many health problems that affect women. Women have unique nutritional needs. By eating well at every stage of life, you can control cravings, manage your weight, boost your energy, and look and feel your best. A balanced eating pattern is a cornerstone of health. Women should enjoy a variety of healthful foods from all of the food groups, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, low-fat or fat free dairy and lean protein. But women also have special nutrient needs, and, during each stage of a woman’s life, these needs change.

Eating right

Nutrient-rich foods provide energy for women’s busy lives and help to reduce the risk of disease. A healthy eating plan regularly includes: 

  •  At least three ounce equivalents of whole grains such as whole grain bread, wholewheat cereal flakes, whole-wheat pasta, bulgur, quinoa, brown rice or oats.
  • Three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy products including milk, yoghurt or cheese; or calcium fortified soy milk. 
  • Five to five-and-a-half ounce-equivalents of protein foods such as lean meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, beans, lentils, tofu, nuts and seeds.
  • One-and-a-half to two cups of fresh fruits without added sugars.
  • Two to two-and-a-half cups of fresh colourful vegetables without added salt.

The nutritional needs of a woman 

The nutritional requirements for boys and girls as children are similar. But when puberty begins, women start to develop unique nutritional requirements. And as we age and our bodies go through more physical and hormonal changes, our nutritional needs continue to evolve, making it important that our diets evolve to meet these changing needs. To ensure you get all the nutrients you need from the food you eat, try to aim for a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, quality protein, healthy fats, and low in processed, fried, and sugary foods. 

Most health experts recommend that you eat a balanced, healthy diet to maintain or to lose weight. But exactly what is a healthy diet? 

  • Protein (found in fish, meat, poultry, dairy products, eggs, nuts, and beans) 
  • Fat (found in animal and dairy products, nuts, and oils)
  • Carbohydrates (found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans and other legumes)
  • Vitamins (such as vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K)
  • Minerals (such as calcium, potassium, and iron)
  • Water (both in what you drink, and what’s naturally in foods) 

Balancing calories with activity

Since women typically have less muscle, more body fat and are smaller than men, they need fewer calories to maintain a healthy body weight and activity level. Women who are more physically active may require more calories. Physical activity is an important part of a woman’s health. Regular physical activity helps with muscle strength, balance, flexibility and stress management.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best nutritionists in Banashankari, Bangalore. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries. 

 Do make an appointment with the best woman care hospital in Banashankari, Bangalore at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dt. Divya Gopal, please book your appointment here.

Balancing Hormones With Exercise

Author: Dr. Archana Dubey MBBS, MS (OBG)
Consultant: Gynecologist, Infertility and Laparoscopy at Motherhood Hospital Indore

The goal of your endocrine system is to maintain balance, which means female hormonal health is more than reproductive health, it is whole body health.

Hormones control heart rate, sleep cycles, sexual function, and reproduction. The metabolism, appetite, mood, stress, and body temperatures are all affected by hormones which largely affect a woman’s function of life.

Hormones, the chemical messengers, are responsible for our weight, mood, appearance, energy, anxiety levels and even fertility. Even a slight imbalance in our hormones can wreck our well-being and hence, it is important that they remain balanced. Physical activity strongly influences hormonal health. Apart from improving blood flow to your muscles, exercise increases hormone receptors.

Will exercise help in maintaining hormonal balance? 

Absolutely, as the amount of movement and physical activity we do daily makes a huge impact on the hormonal responses of the body. Our heart rate and the activation of our nervous system also cause our brain to release various hormones, which ultimately control how our peripheral organs respond. It is pretty amazing how every part of our body works together to ultimately carry out a mission. Exercise has a powerful effect on balancing, suppressing, and increasing certain hormones. Excess oestrogen, insulin, and cortisol are the hormones responsible for weight gain, while HGH, testosterone, and progesterone are the ones responsible for keeping us lean. Leptin is another hormone, which, when too low, signals your body to store fat. 

Which hormones are impacted by exercise?

Epinephrine/Norepinephrine: Responds to stress, either physical or psychological. Insulin: Made by the pancreas on the arrival of glucose into the bloodstream, it rises and falls according to what you eat. 

Cortisol: Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress, low blood sugar and exercise. 

Oestrogen: A wonderful hormone in the right amount, it makes conception and pregnancy possible. It’s also a natural mood lifter.

Human Growth Hormone: Quite simply one of the most powerful hormones. It’s a fat burner, which forces your body to draw energy from your fat reserves first.

Testosterone: It’s vitally important for women as it builds muscle, burns fat, increases energy and sex drive, and strengthens bones.

Progesterone: A hormone that regulates menstrual function and pregnancy.

Serotonin: Physical activity releases serotonin, which promotes a good night’s rest. Increasing your serotonin levels can boost mood, appetite, digestion, memory, and sexual drive. 

Splitting your workouts between cardio, resistance, high intensity exercise and yoga will ensure you’re balancing all of the major male and female hormones, cortisol and insulin. Cardio, for example, is helpful in balancing oestrogen, the primary female sex hormone. When levels of oestrogen are too high or low, it can lead to bloating or water retention, menstrual cycle issues and mood swings. A lack of oestrogen can also put women at more risk of developing both breast and ovarian cancer.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Indore. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do make an appointment with the best maternity hospital in Indore at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Archana Dubey, please book your appointment here.

Being a First Time Mom

Author: Dr. Sanjay Wazir MBBS, MD – Pediatrics, DM – Neonatology
Consultant: Medical Director (NCR)- Neonatology at Motherhood Hospital, Gurgaon

Becoming a parent can be a bit overwhelming and being a first-time mom has its own set of challenges as you get introduced to a lot of new things, ranging from breastfeeding to soothing a crying baby. Most first-time moms go into motherhood with expectations. What they’ll be like as a mom, how they’ll feel and even what the baby will be like. But your idea of parenthood and the reality of being a parent will likely be two very different things. 

The truth is in the first few weeks, you’ll learn a lot about yourself and being a parent. As your little one depends on you for everything, your responsibility increases. You may be quite anxious about the situation. It is alright to worry, just remember not to allow it to overpower you. Some of the common situations that most moms face are:

Why is my baby crying frequently? 

In the initial months, you will notice your baby crying frequently. Instead of stressing on the eating and sleeping habits or what could be wrong with the child, find ways of soothing your child and get him / her to adapt to the people and surroundings.

  • Am I feeding the child right?
    Breastfeeding is a new challenge which most moms experience during their initial days of childbirth. Some babies do not suck properly or reject the breast milk. Instead of thinking of alternatives, it is always advisable to reach out to your doctor who will provide you with the right solution.
  • Handling the newborn
    It can be an overwhelming experience to get through the child’s routine. Be it giving the child a bath, feeding or clipping the nails. These routine things can make you feel nervous. But, nevertheless, following your maternal instincts will help you cater to all the needs of your baby confidently.
  • Bowel movement 
    The bowel movement of your child is not constant. It could be too frequent or no bowel movement for days. An irregular routine can upset you. If you notice any abnormal change in the bowel movement or color, reach out to the doctor instead of panicking and you will get the right solution.

Spitting milk after a breastfeed or during burping

It is absolutely normal for a baby to spit up some milk immediately after a breastfeed or during burping. This should not be a cause of concern. If the baby is regularly spitting or throwing up and not gaining weight, then it is the time to consult a doctor.

  • Changing diapers
    Changing diapers is another important thing as your child diapers get soiled almost after every feed during the initial days. Not changing the diapers will not only make the child uncomfortable but will also be prone to infections. These are a few guidelines and there are numerous things that you need to take care of for your newborn. However, remember this experience of a lifetime which you will always cherish .

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Kharadi, Pune. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do make an appointment with the best maternity hospital in Kharadi, Pune at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Preethika Shetty, please book your appointment here.