HEALTHCARE DIGITAL LIBRARY: FOOD

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World Earth Day 2025: Nurturing Nature, the Indian Way

Title: World Earth Day 2025: Nurturing Nature, the Indian Way

Every year on April 22, the world comes together to celebrate Earth Day, a reminder of our responsibility to protect and preserve the planet we call home. In 2025, the theme is "Planet vs. Plastics", urging global citizens to reduce plastic pollution and embrace sustainable living. For India—a land known for its deep-rooted respect for nature—this day is both a celebration and a call to action.

India’s Legacy of Environmental Harmony

India's relationship with nature is centuries old. From the Vedas that describe rivers as goddesses to Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of simple living, environmental consciousness runs through India's cultural DNA. Sacred groves, rainwater harvesting in ancient temples, and farming methods in villages are evidence of a harmonious coexistence with nature.

Current Challenges: A Wake-Up Call

Despite this rich heritage, modern India is grappling with critical environmental challenges:

Plastic Pollution: India generates over 3.4 million tonnes of plastic waste annually. Single-use plastics choke rivers and harm wildlife.
Deforestation and Urban Sprawl: Rapid development has led to habitat loss, air pollution, and shrinking green cover.
Water Crisis: Groundwater levels are depleting fast in cities like Chennai and Bengaluru.

These problems are urgent—but they are not irreversible.

Hope on the Horizon: Green India Initiatives

India is rising to the occasion with several impactful initiatives:

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission): A national movement to clean cities and promote waste segregation.
Plastic Ban Movements: States like Sikkim and Kerala have enforced strict plastic bans with success.
International Solar Alliance (ISA): Spearheaded by India to promote solar energy globally.
Namami Gange Programme: A flagship mission to clean and rejuvenate the Ganga River.

Schools, NGOs, and startups are also stepping up. For example, Indian youth-led ventures are turning plastic waste into eco-bricks, art, and road materials.

What Can You Do This Earth Day?

Change begins at home. Here’s how you can contribute:

Say NO to single-use plastics: Carry cloth bags and metal water bottles.
Plant a tree or adopt one in your neighborhood.
Save water by fixing leaks and using buckets instead of showers.
Support local eco-friendly brands and products.
Participate in local clean-up drives.

Conclusion: One Earth, One Future

World Earth Day is not just a date—it’s a movement. For India, it's a reminder to blend tradition with innovation and lead by example in the global fight against climate change. Let us protect our rivers, forests, and air—not just for us, but for generations to come.

As the Sanskrit verse says:
"Prakriti Rakshati Rakshitaha" — Nature protects those who protects.

Handwashing Technique -Steps

handwashing is a proper technique of cleaning hands using soap, water, and friction to remove germs, dirt, and infections, especially in healthcare settings.

Importance of Medical Handwashing

Prevents Infections – Stops the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses.
Protects Patients & Staff – Reduces hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).
Ensures Hygiene – Keeps hands clean and safe for medical procedures.
Prevents Cross-Contamination – Stops germs from transferring between surfaces and people.
Supports Public Health – Encourages good hygiene habits to prevent disease outbreaks.

Regular and proper handwashing is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stay healthy! 🚑💧

video explanation

Step 1 of medical handwashing: Turning on the water with the elbow to avoid contamination. I'll generate the next steps shortly! 🚑💧

Here is Step 2: Wetting hands under running water.

Here is Step 3: Applying liquid soap onto the palm.

Here is Step 4: Rubbing palms together to create a lather.

Here is Step 5: Rubbing the back of the hands with the opposite palm.

Here is Step 6: Interlacing fingers and rubbing them together to clean between them.

Here is Step 7: Clasping the thumb with the opposite hand and rotating to clean thoroughly.

WEANING

TOPIC: WEANING

VIDEO EXPLANATION

§ NAME OF THE TOPIC:WEANING

Weaning: Simple Explanation

Weaning is the gradual process of introducing solid foods to an infant while reducing their dependence on breast milk or formula. It is an essential step in a child’s growth and development.

Types of Weaning:

Natural Weaning (Baby-Led Weaning) – The baby gradually loses interest in breastfeeding/formula as they consume more solid food.
Planned Weaning (Mother-Led Weaning) – The parent decides to reduce milk feeding by introducing more solid foods.
Partial Weaning – The baby continues breastfeeding alongside complementary foods.
Abrupt Weaning – A sudden stop to breastfeeding due to medical or personal reasons.

Best Time to Start:

Recommended around 6 months of age, as per WHO guidelines.
Should be done gradually to allow the baby to adjust to new foods.

§ DURATION:15 MIN

§ SUBJECT:CHILD HEALTH NURSING

§ METHOD OF TEACHING:CHALK BOARD,CHART PAPER,FLASH CARDS,PPT

§ PREVIOU KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENTS:STUDENT SHOULD HAVE THE BASIC KNOWLEDGE ABOUT WEANING

Ø GENERAL OBJECTIVES:

At the end of the topic students will be able to understand about Weaning process

and principles of weaning food.

Ø SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE:

At the end of the topic,students will be able to:

--define Weaning

--explain the purpose of Weaning food

--explain the principles of Weaning food

--enlist the types of Weaning

--explain the advantages of Weaning

Sl. No.	Time	Specific Objective	Content	Learning And Teaching Activities	A.V Aids	Evaluation
1	2 min	Defination of Weaning	ü Weaning is the process of gradually introducing an infant human or mammal to what will be it’s adult diet while withdrawing the supply of it’s mother’s milk. ü The department of health recommends that healthy term infants need no nutrision other than breast milk or formula milk until 6 months(26 weeks) of age	Lecture Cum Discussion	Black Board	What is the definition of Weaning?
2	3 min	Enlist the principle of Weaning food	Weaning foods should provide extra requirement as per need of the day. Initially small amount should be given then increase gradually in course of a week.	Lecture Cum Discussion	Black Board	What are the principles of Weaning food?
3	5 min	Explain the types of Weaning	1.Weaning at 6 months: --choose a quiet time of day,half way through a feed: Smooth mash for purees,small amount once a day,move on to two meals per day 2.Weaning at 6 to 9 months --increase the quantity accourdinf your infant’s interests and appetite offer food from all four food group,at the amount of solid food increases the volume of breast milk decreases: Offer a cup of water with meals 3.Weaning at 9 to 12 moths Reduce milk feeds one by one to two feeds per day at 11 to 12 months: Hard finger foods minced and chopped family foods.	Lecture Cum Discussion	PPT	What are the causes of Bronchial Asthma?
4	2 min	Advantages of weaning	No extra work at dinner time. No worry of over feeding. Baby learns at their own pace. Little spoon feeding. Maintainance of proper body weight at proper age. To maintain proper growth and development of the baby.	Lecture Cum Discussion	Flash Cards	What are the advantages of Weaning?
5	3 min	Some special points of Weaning	1. Strict cleanliness i.e.,hands washed,nails kept short before preparation and handlingthe feeds. 2. New foods have to be given in small quantites at first and then increased slowly. 3. Any one type of food should be given for 3 or 4 days before any new type of food is offered. --This ‘go slow’ processwill help the baby to accept new foods without upsetting the bowels.	Lecture Cum Discussion	Black Board	What are the special points of Weaning ?

Ø CONCLUSION:

ü Introduction o f new food at right time will help baby develop and grow into healthy child.

ü There is need to have maximum utilization of commonly available cheap cereals and legumes of formulate weaning foods.

ü One of such infant complementary food or weaning food is made from a combination of rice, wheat and moonbeam.

Ø SUMMARY:

In this topic I have explained about definition of WEANING and

it’s types, principles, definition, advantages, and some special points about

Weaning.

Ø BIBLIOGRAPHY:

*apps.who.int

*www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

*www.everymum.ie

Intermittent Fasting: A Powerful Weapon Against Cancer and a Path to Optimal Health

"Intermittent Fasting: A Powerful Weapon Against Cancer and a Path to Optimal Health"

Introduction

Intermittent fasting (IF) has taken the health and wellness world by storm, offering benefits that range from weight loss to improved brain function. But did you know that fasting may also play a crucial role in preventing and even combating cancer? Emerging research suggests that fasting helps regulate cell growth, reduces inflammation, and enhances the body's ability to fight cancer cells. In this blog, we will explore how intermittent fasting works, its benefits, and its potential role in cancer prevention.

What is Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of fasting and eating. Unlike traditional diets, it doesn’t focus on what you eat but rather when you eat. Popular methods include:

16/8 Method: Fasting for 16 hours and eating within an 8-hour window.
5:2 Diet: Eating normally for five days a week and consuming a limited calorie intake (500-600 calories) on two non-consecutive days.
Alternate-Day Fasting: Alternating between fasting days and regular eating days.
24-Hour Fast: Fasting for a full 24 hours once or twice a week.

The Health Benefits of Intermittent Fasting

Weight Loss and Metabolism Boost
IF helps reduce calorie intake while boosting metabolism, leading to weight loss and improved fat burning.
Cellular Repair and Longevity
During fasting, the body initiates autophagy, a process that removes damaged cells and regenerates new, healthy ones, potentially slowing down aging.
Brain Health and Cognitive Function
IF has been shown to increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), improving memory, learning, and resistance to neurodegenerative diseases.
Reduced Inflammation and Improved Immunity
Fasting lowers oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are linked to chronic diseases, including cancer.

Intermittent Fasting and Cancer Prevention

1. Restricting Cancer Cell Growth

Cancer cells thrive on glucose. When you fast, your body depletes glucose stores and switches to burning fat (ketosis). This metabolic shift makes it harder for cancer cells to grow since they rely primarily on sugar for survival.

2. Boosting Autophagy to Eliminate Damaged Cells

Autophagy helps remove damaged cells that could potentially turn cancerous. Fasting enhances this natural detox process, keeping cells healthy and functioning optimally.

3. Reducing Insulin Levels and Growth Factors

High insulin levels and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) promote cell proliferation, including cancerous cells. Intermittent fasting reduces insulin and IGF-1 levels, slowing tumor growth and reducing cancer risk.

4. Enhancing Chemotherapy Effectiveness

Some studies suggest that fasting before chemotherapy makes cancer cells more vulnerable while protecting healthy cells, potentially reducing side effects and improving treatment outcomes.

How to Incorporate Intermittent Fasting for Cancer Prevention

Start with the 16/8 method and gradually increase fasting periods.
Stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, and black coffee.
Focus on nutrient-dense foods during eating windows—leafy greens, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich foods.
Avoid processed foods, refined sugars, and excessive carbohydrates that can promote insulin spikes.
Consult a doctor before starting IF, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Conclusion

Intermittent fasting is more than just a weight-loss tool—it is a holistic approach to better health, longevity, and disease prevention. While research on its direct effects on cancer is still ongoing, the existing evidence strongly supports IF’s role in reducing risk factors linked to cancer development. By adopting an intermittent fasting routine, you can take charge of your health and potentially create an environment in your body that makes it difficult for cancer to thrive.

Ready to start your fasting journey? Give it a try and experience the incredible benefits firsthand!

Scientific Blog: The Role of Fruits and Raw Vegetables in a Healthy Meal – Evidence-Based Insights

Prof.Midhu Kurian

Senior Writer, Healthcare Digital

Introduction

Incorporating fruits and raw vegetables into every meal is a cornerstone of a balanced diet, often praised for its health benefits. A popular suggestion is that each meal should include at least 30% by weight of fruit or raw vegetables, chewed slowly and eaten before cooked foods. While this exact rule isn’t etched in scientific stone, let’s explore the evidence behind these concepts and how they can optimize your health, grounded in evidence-based practice (EBP).

Why Fruits and Raw Vegetables Matter

Fruits and vegetables are nutritional powerhouses, packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The World Health Organization recommends at least 400 grams daily—about 5 servings—to lower risks of heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers. A 2014 meta-analysis of cohort studies (Harvard Nutrition Source) found that each additional serving reduces cardiovascular mortality risk by 4%. Raw vegetables, in particular, retain heat-sensitive nutrients like vitamin C, while their fiber content aids digestion and satiety.

A 2024 study (Medical News Today) linked plant-based diets rich in raw vegetables to better long-term health, including weight loss and heart disease prevention. Researchers reviewed 24 studies with over 2,200 participants, noting that higher vegetable intake correlated with reduced body weight—likely due to increased fiber and lower energy density.

The 30% Idea: Does It Hold Up?

While 30% by weight isn’t a standard guideline, it’s not far off from practical recommendations. The USDA’s MyPlate advises filling half your plate with fruits and vegetables. If a meal weighs 500 grams (a reasonable estimate for a main meal), 30% (150 grams) aligns with one to two servings—fitting within daily targets. However, no studies explicitly validate 30% per meal as a magic number. A PMC review (2018) on vegetable intake and weight outcomes found a 17% reduced risk of adiposity with higher intake, but it didn’t specify meal composition percentages.

Raw vs. cooked? Both have merits. Cooking can boost nutrient availability (e.g., lycopene in tomatoes), but raw options preserve enzymes and water content, enhancing fullness. The “either, not together” notion lacks evidence—variety is key, not exclusivity.

Chew Slowly, Win Big

Chewing thoroughly isn’t just for raw veggies—it’s a game-changer for all foods. A 2011 study (Am J Clin Nutr) showed that chewing food 40 times per bite reduced intake by 12% compared to 15 chews, thanks to increased satiety hormones. Fiber-rich fruits and veggies take longer to break down, naturally encouraging slower eating. This aligns with mindful eating, a practice linked to better weight control (Prevention.com). Slow chewing before cooked foods could amplify this effect, though research hasn’t tested this sequence specifically.

Timing It Right: Fruits and Veggies First

Starting with fruits or vegetables leverages their low energy density—think cucumbers (16 calories per 100 grams) or apples (52 calories). A 2007 study (Appetite) found that a low-calorie salad before a meal cut total intake by 11%, suggesting a preloading strategy. Fiber and water fill you up, potentially curbing overeating of calorie-dense cooked foods. While not mandated, this approach has EBP roots in weight management trials.

Putting It Into Practice

Here’s an evidence-inspired plan:

Aim High: Target 150–200 grams of fruits or raw veggies per meal (about 30–40% of a 500-gram meal), fitting within the WHO’s 400-gram daily goal.
Mix It Up: Include raw (e.g., spinach salad) and cooked (e.g., steamed broccoli) for nutrient variety.
Chew Well: Take 20–40 chews per bite to boost satiety and digestion.
Start Fresh: Eat your produce first to maximize fullness before heavier foods.

Conclusion

While “30% by weight of fruit or raw vegetable per meal, chewed slowly before cooked food” isn’t a precise EBP rule, its components reflect sound science. High fruit and vegetable intake, mindful chewing, and strategic timing are backed by research for weight management and health. So, load up your plate with nature’s best—just don’t stress the exact percentage. Your body will thank you.

This blog adapts the user’s claim to what’s scientifically supported, avoiding unverified specifics like “30%” as a hard rule while emphasizing EBP from credible studies.