Nutrition bars to be given to adolescent girls to address anaemia
The Telangana government, on Thursday, launched a scheme to provide nutrition bars, made of peanuts and millets, to address anaemia among adolescent girls (14-18 years).
Each bar consists of 600 calories, 18-20 grams of protein and necessary micronutrients.
Anaemia can result in weakness, diminished physical and mental capacity, maternal mortality, increased morbidity from infectious diseases, perinatal mortality, premature delivery, low birth weight, and (in children) impaired cognitive performance, motor development, and scholastic achievement, according to National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5 report.
Women and Child Welfare Minister Danasari Anasuya launched the scheme titled Indiramma Amrutham on a pilot project basis, which would be implemented in Kumram Bheem Asifabad, Bhadradri Kothagudem and Jayashankar Bhupalapally districts, where there are more cases of anaemia.
The scheme was designed in consultation with the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN). It would benefit 50,269 girls: 23,399 in Bhadradri Kothagudem, 18,230 in Asifabad and 8,640 in Jayashankar Bhupalapally. Depending on the feedback, it would be extended to other districts.
Two free packets would be given to each through Anganwadi centres, and each packet will have 15 nutrition bars.
'Anaemia is a condition that is marked by low levels of haemoglobin in blood. Iron deficiency is estimated to be responsible for about half of all anaemia globally, but anaemia can also be caused by malaria, hookworms and other helminths, other nutritional deficiencies, chronic infections, and genetic conditions,' according to the NFHS report.
Prevalence in Telangana
According to the report, 58% of women in Telangana have anaemia. It was particularly high among rural women, women aged 15-19, and Scheduled Tribe women. More than two-thirds (70%) of children aged 6-59 months are anaemic.
Some parents consult dieticians with a complaint that though iron rich foods were given, the mineral is deficient in their children. Dietitian Shubhangi Surana, founder, Rainbow Nutrition Clinic in Secunderabad, said that what people have along with the foods plays a role in absorption of iron.
'Incorporate Vitamin C when eating Iron. It always helps. Lemon, Guava, Tamarind, Tomatoes - to an extent - are sources of vitamin C. Calcium is antagonist to iron. So avoid Calcium rich foods with iron,' said Ms. Surana.
Abitha Chilkuri, dietician and nutritionist, said that coffee and tea with milk contains toxins that bind with dietary iron and make it unavailable for absorption. 'They should be avoided for at least an hour before, during or immediately after a meal,' she said.
Ms. Surana said that Calcium (for bone development), Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Iodine, fiber are other nutritional requirements for the girls in the age group.
In order to achieve optimum growth, bone mass, muscle mass and overall good health without any vitamin and mineral deficiencies and to improve longevity adolescents must consume food that is rich in calcium such as finger millet(ragi), green leafy vegetables like amaranth, sesame seeds, milk and milk products, said Ms. Abitha.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
18 hours ago
- Time of India
The Transformative Power of Yog Nidra in Sports
In the high-stakes world of competitive sports, athletes are always searching for ways to gain an edge—whether through advanced physical training, cutting-edge nutrition, or innovative mental conditioning . Among the most powerful tools emerging in sports psychology is Yog Nidra , an ancient yogic practice of conscious deep sleep. This technique is rapidly gaining recognition for its ability to enhance athletic performance and personal well-being, offering benefits that extend far beyond the playing field. Yog Nidra, often described as 'yogic sleep,' is a state of deep relaxation where the practitioner remains fully conscious. Unlike ordinary sleep, which can be restless or filled with dreams, Yog Nidra provides profound rest and restoration at the physical, mental, and emotional levels. Rooted in the classical tradition, Yog Nidra is considered a technique of pratyahara, the fifth limb of Ashtanga Yoga. Pratyahara refers to the withdrawal of the senses from external distractions, allowing the practitioner to turn inward and cultivate deep awareness and inner peace. For athletes, this practice offers unique benefits: Enhanced Recovery: Intense training and competition place significant physical and mental demands on athletes. Yog Nidra accelerates recovery by reducing stress hormones and promoting deep rest, allowing athletes to train harder and more consistently. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Best X-Ray Diffractometers Mexico (See The List) X-Ray Diffraction | Search Ads Undo Mental Clarity and Focus: The practice helps athletes clear mental clutter, sharpen concentration, and stay present—qualities that are essential during high-pressure matches. By training the mind to remain calm and focused, Yog Nidra supports peak performance under stress. Emotional Resilience : Sports are as much about handling setbacks as they are about celebrating victories. Yog Nidra equips athletes with tools to manage anxiety, frustration, and self-doubt, fostering a mindset of resilience and positivity. Improved Sleep Quality : Many athletes struggle with sleep, especially before major events. Regular Yog Nidra practice improves sleep quality, ensuring athletes are well-rested and ready to perform. Recent scientific studies have validated the efficacy of Yog Nidra for both physical and mental health. Research conducted by the National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR), Hyderabad, inspired by Anandmurti Gurumaa, demonstrated that regular Yog Nidra practice leads to significant improvements in blood pressure, stress, anxiety, and depression. Participants also experienced reductions in harmful biochemical markers like cortisol and triglycerides, while beneficial substances like adiponectin increased. Importantly, Yog Nidra has no negative side effects—making it a safe and natural intervention for athletes and non-athletes alike. The integration of Yog Nidra into sports training reflects a broader shift in athletic development—one that recognizes the critical importance of mental and emotional well-being alongside physical conditioning. Coaches and athletes worldwide are increasingly adopting mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques to enhance performance and overall quality of life. Yog Nidra, with its roots in ancient yoga and now supported by scientific evidence, offers a structured, evidence-based approach to achieving inner calm, focus, and resilience. Authored by: Anandmurti Gurumaa Why Arjun Was Chosen: The Untold Secret of Bhagavad Gita Chapter 4, Verse 3
Time of India
21 hours ago
- Time of India
Silent Signals: Uncovering Impact of Angina on Women in India
New Delhi: While women face many health challenges throughout their lives, heart disease stands out as one of the most serious — causing more deaths and disability than any other condition worldwide. A 2016 report by the India n Council of Medical Research identified heart disease as the leading cause of illness in India. According to the National Family Health Survey (2019–20), about 0.7% of women and 0.9% of men in India report having heart disease. India's death rate from heart disease already exceeds the global average — and studies show that women may be even more at risk. Conditions like angina often present subtly, with symptoms that are easy to miss but can lead to higher risks. To spotlight this critical issue, ETHealthworld, in collaboration with global healthcare leader Abbott , hosted a webinar titled Her Heart Matters: Understanding Angina and Coronary Artery Disease in Women. The session brought together medical experts to explore the unique cardiovascular challenges faced by Indian women. The expert panel featured Dr Jyotirmoy Pal President, Association of Physicians of India (API); Dr Agam Vora , Honorary General Secretary, Association of Physicians of India (API); Dr. Gurpreet S Wander, Chief Cardiologist, Hero DMC Heart Institute, Ludhiana; Dr. Sarita Rao, Senior Interventional Cardiologist and Director Cath Lab, Apollo Hospitals, Indore; Dr Rohita Shetty Head of Medical Affairs, Abbott India. The discussion was moderated by Prathiba Raju, Senior Assistant Editor, ET Healthworld. Exploring the underlying causes of angina, Dr Jyotirmoy Pal explained that while non-communicable diseases (NCDs) accounted for a third of deaths at the time of India's independence, decades of lifestyle and metabolic shifts have dramatically altered the landscape— with cardiovascular diseases now emerging as the leading cause of mortality. Angina, commonly experienced as chest pain, is one of the most recognizable early warning signs of heart disease. Dr. Gurpreet S. Wander added that approximately 60–65% of individuals with coronary artery disease report experiencing angina symptoms. Discussing key risk factors for angina, Dr. Wander emphasized that among the eight major contributors to heart disease — including high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and stress — genetics and lifestyle choices, particularly tobacco use, pose the greatest risk for individuals under 60. He also noted that while women benefit from a degree of natural protection against heart disease due to hormonal factors, this advantage is significantly diminished in the presence of diabetes. Experts further highlighted a critical gap in research: women comprise only about 20% of participants in heart disease clinical trials. As a result, most treatment protocols are based predominantly on male-centric data, making it more challenging to develop care strategies tailored specifically to women's cardiovascular health. Diagnosis Dilemma Speaking on the importance of early detection, Dr. Jyotirmoy Pal emphasized that recognizing angina symptoms promptly can lead to timely intervention — potentially saving lives. However, in India, recurring chest pain is often misdiagnosed as Acid Peptic Disorder (APD), delaying appropriate cardiac care. Dr. Agam Vora added that there's a common misconception that only individuals with conditions like diabetes or obesity are at risk for angina. 'That's not always the case,' he noted, stressing the need for clinicians to adopt modern diagnostic tools — especially when interpreting ECG results proves challenging. Dr. Wander further explained that angina can sometimes present with symptoms like burping, which are frequently mistaken for acidity. 'If the discomfort isn't localized and lasts for 3 to 5 minutes, it could be a sign of heart-related chest pain,' he cautioned. The panel also underscored the value of non-invasive diagnostic tests — such as treadmill tests, stress echocardiography, and cardiac imaging — in identifying angina early. These tools can help avoid diagnostic delays, which is critical, as untreated angina can escalate into a heart attack , posing serious, potentially life-threatening risks. Gender-Based Differences Dr. Rao explained that heart disease symptoms in women can be quite different from those in men. Instead of the typical chest pain, women may feel breathless, break into a sweat, or experience symptoms like acidity, heartburn, or even nausea. She also noted that diagnosing heart issues in women can be more complex. For example, their ECGs may show subtle changes, and they're more likely to test positive during a treadmill test. Women also experience a type of heart condition called microvascular angina, which affects the smaller blood vessels and often doesn't show up on standard heart scans like a coronary angiogram. While women do have some natural hormonal protection against heart disease, Dr. Rao pointed out that they also face unique risks — especially during and after pregnancy. Conditions like gestational diabetes and high blood pressure can increase a woman's chances of developing heart disease later in life. She also highlighted that early menopause, Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD), and autoimmune disorders can raise the risk of heart problems even further. That's why it's important for women to stay informed and proactive about their heart health. Solutions to change the course Coronary artery disease (CAD) ranks among the leading causes of death from non-communicable diseases. While it is often diagnosed later in life, Dr. Wander emphasized that its origins can be traced back much earlier. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits early — and maintaining them consistently — plays a crucial role in preventing or delaying the onset of heart disease. Dr. Rao emphasized that regularly checking your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar — along with living a healthy lifestyle — can greatly reduce your risk of heart disease. Avoiding smoking and alcohol also plays a big role. These simple habits can help you stay healthier and be better prepared for any future health risks. Abbott's Efforts for Better Heart Health Dr. Rohita Shetty shared some of the steps Abbott is taking to support women's heart health, especially around angina. As part of its 2030 global goals, Abbott is working to fight non-communicable diseases like diabetes and heart conditions. Because angina often shows up differently in women and can be hard to recognize, there's a strong need to raise awareness. To help close this gap, Abbott collaborated with the Association of Physicians of India (API) to launch Angina Awareness Week in 2024. As part of this effort, Abbott introduced the OPTA (Optimal Treatment of Angina) initiative, which includes three helpful tools — a checklist, a questionnaire, and a clinical approach — all designed to improve how angina is diagnosed and managed. This year, the spotlight is on women — with a focus on improving their heart health and overall quality of life. Abbott's awareness initiatives aim to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to take control of their heart health and make informed choices for a healthier future. To summarize, with rising rates of obesity, hypertension, and hereditary risk factors, experts caution that the burden of heart disease is likely to continue growing. The good news is that this trend can be changed. By making healthier lifestyle choices, scheduling regular health checkups, and leveraging advanced diagnostic tools, individuals can take meaningful steps to reduce their risk — helping to build stronger, healthier families and communities. Disclaimer - The above content is non-editorial, and TIL hereby disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, relating to it, and does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the content.
NDTV
a day ago
- NDTV
Lifestyle Coach Shares Health Benefits Of Okra
Okra, also known as lady's finger, is a bright green vegetable loved for its mild flavour, subtle crunch, and versatility. Whether fried, stewed, or tossed into curries, it's a staple in many kitchens, and it turns out, it's also a nutritional powerhouse. Nutritionist and health coach Luke Coutinho recently shared a video on Instagram highlighting the many health benefits of okra. In the video, he explained how the vegetable is rich in essential nutrients and can easily be included in a balanced diet. One of the key components of okra is its mucilage, a gel-like substance that acts as a form of fibre. According to Luke Coutinho, this fibre helps nourish good gut bacteria, supports bowel movement, and improves stool consistency. He also pointed out that okra is especially beneficial for people managing diabetes, inflammation, and gut health. It's packed with Vitamin K, Vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and all B vitamins. Its high fibre content works as a prebiotic, supporting a healthy gut microbiome. In addition to being low in calories, okra contains small amounts of protein and carbohydrates. Luke Coutinho added that scientific studies have shown okra helps reduce glucose absorption and improves insulin sensitivity, thanks to compounds like flavonoids and polysaccharides. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also help lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luke Coutinho - Official (@luke_coutinho) He also mentioned that he often includes okra in diets for people who are preparing for or recovering from surgery, dealing with colorectal issues, and undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or heavy medication. He said okra-based meals ease digestion, reduce oxidative stress, and support cellular healing. Luke Coutinho also cautioned people to avoid okra if they are allergic to it or those taking heavy blood thinners. He also advised people not to deep-fry or overcook okra, as it kills most of the nutrition. He recommended steaming, light cooking, or even adding okra to salads or soups instead and suggested trying okra water by soaking it overnight and drinking it the next day. He suggested, "Stop deep frying it. Lightly saute, steam, or mix into dals and sabzis." He stated that managing conditions like diabetes, heart problems or weight loss issues requires regular exercise, good sleep quality, stress management, and proper nutrition, as there is no magic food that can cure diabetes, prevent heart attacks, or cause weight loss on its own. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
