BMI

Body mass index (BMI) is a good measure of overweight or obesity BUT not necessarily fitness.

Some people with a ‘normal’ BMI may have excess fat and reduced muscle mass, WHEREAS others with an ‘obese’ BMI, may have a normal amount of body fat and higher muscle mass.

Normal BMI and excess abdominal fat is a typical feature of the South Asians, specially Indians. South Asians including Indians can be classified as ‘metabolically obese’ i.e. we may be non-obese by conventional BMI standards but have high body fat and excessive fat around our belly.

Increased abdominal fat stimulates insulin resistance, which in turn promotes weight gain and risk for developing related health problems. For more details check
source
www.weightmonitor.com
shalini puri
Dietician
AshaUSA mini medicine citi

dash diet

DASH diet: Healthy eating to lower your blood pressure! It emphasizes portion size, eating a variety of foods and getting the right amount of nutrients.
With this over time, your high BP could drop by eight to 14 points, and reduce health risks.

DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. - A lifelong approach to healthy to treat or prevent high blood pressure (hypertension).
Principles
* To reduce the sodium in your diet
* Eat a variety of foods rich in nutrients (that help lower BP) such as potassium, calcium and magnesium.

Standard DASH diet. You can consume up to 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium a day.
Lower sodium DASH diet. You can consume up to 1,500 mg of sodium a day.
Shalini puri
Dietician
Asha usa mini medicine citi

importance of fiber

The four important reasons your diet should be high in fiber are -

• Abnormal bowel movements
• High Cholesterol
• High Blood Glucose
• Overweight
The best way to have fiber the natural way in your diet is to include five servings of fruits and vegetables, whole-grains cereals, brown rice, oats and beans.
Shalini puri
Dietician
ASHA USA MINI MEDICINE CITI

probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are similar to beneficial microorganisms found in the human gut hence, they are also known as "friendly bacteria" or "good bacteria”. Probiotics have been shown to provide health benefits in variety of gastrointestinal conditions such as infectious diarrhea, diarrhea associated with using antibiotics, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease). Probiotics are also being used for preventing tooth decay and for preventing or treating other oral health problems such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
Probiotics are available in foods as well as dietary supplements. Examples of foods containing probiotics are yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, tempeh. In probiotic dietary supplements, most often the bacteria come from strains of two groups, Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium. A few common probiotics, such as Saccharomyces boulardii, are yeasts, which are different from bacteria.
However all health claims mentioned on labels of different brands of probiotic supplements may not be true so its best to consult your health care provider before taking any probiotic.
Shalini puri
Dietician
Asha USA mini medicine citi

probiotic

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are similar to beneficial microorganisms found in the human gut hence, they are also known as "friendly bacteria" or "good bacteria”. Probiotics have been shown to provide health benefits in variety of gastrointestinal conditions such as infectious diarrhea, diarrhea associated with using antibiotics, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease). Probiotics are also being used for preventing tooth decay and for preventing or treating other oral health problems such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
Probiotics are available in foods as well as dietary supplements. Examples of foods containing probiotics are yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, tempeh. In probiotic dietary supplements, most often the bacteria come from strains of two groups, Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium. A few common probiotics, such as Saccharomyces boulardii, are yeasts, which are different from bacteria.
However all health claims mentioned on labels of different brands of probiotic supplements may not be true so its best to consult your health care provider before taking any probiotic.
Shalini puri
Dietician
Asha USA mini medicine citi

Toilet Training in Children

Many parents are unsure about when to start toilet teaching or "potty training." Not all kids are ready at the same age, so it's important to watch your child for signs of readiness, such as stopping an activity for a few seconds or clutching his or her diaper.
Most children begin to show these signs between 18 and 24 months, although some may be ready earlier or later than that. And boys often start later and take longer to learn to use the potty than girls.





Instead of using age as a readiness indicator, look for other signs that your child may be ready to start heading for the potty, such as the ability to:
• follow simple instructions
• understand words about the toileting process
• control the muscles responsible for elimination
• express a need to go verbally
• keep a diaper dry for 2 hours or more
• get to the potty, sit on it, and then get off the potty
• pull down diapers, disposable training pants, or underpants
• show an interest in using the potty or wearing underpants


Mrs. Anita Chaudhary
(Clinical Psychologist)
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Hyperactivity In Children

Few children always seem to be in motion, they can't sit still, they squirm in their seat or roam around the room or they might shake their feet or noisily tap their pencil. 
Children who are overly impulsive seem unable to curb their immediate reactions or think before they act. As a result, they may blurt out inappropriate comments. Or they may run into the street without looking. They may grab a toy from another child, or hit out when they're upset. 
When these kind of traits develop in kids we get worried, sometimes even get embarrassed because of their behavior, actually here we don't really need to feel so, we need to find out the reason behind their behavior and this will help us in managing them effectively.

While bringing up our kid we need to be patient and calm. If we overreact to any situation like their illness, problems, crying, misbehavior we give them the signal that this is the effective way of handling crisis and they start practicing hyperactivity in day to day life crisis. Too much exposure to television can also lead to hyperactivity. Children find brightness and frequent scene change in T.V. so interesting that they start considering real life boring. Some times we fail to give them appropriate attention and care that leads to hyperactivity. If we admire, appreciate or simply interact with the child while he is playing silently without disturbing anyone, the child will never feel the need to misbehave. Always remember their world starts from us and end at us only. They do anything to get our love and attention and also they get disappointed easily. never ever forget to convey your message of love and admiration to your kid. It is not sufficient to love and care for your child but it is also very important to make them aware of you love. Keep telling them that you love him/her, care for them, how much you admire them for their good behavior. Make your child aware that your love for him is unconditional and you will keep loving whatever he do. Your child should be aware of your expectations from him. If we take care of these simple steps while bringing up our child and enjoy this phase of our life rather than taking it as a burden we will find it very easy to maintain our child.




Shweta Tilak
Psychologist
Asha USA (Mini Medicine Citi)

Smoking In Children

The health risks of tobacco are well known, but kids and teens continue to smoke and use chewing tobacco. Many young people pick up these habits every year — in fact, 90% of all adult smokers started when they were kids. Each day, more than 3,900 kids become regular smokers. So it's important to make sure kids understand the dangers of tobacco use. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States, and can cause cancer, heart disease, and lung disease. Chewing tobacco (smokeless or spit tobacco) can lead to nicotine addiction, oral cancer, gum disease, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks. Giving kids information about the risks of smoking and chewing tobacco, and establishing clear rules and your reasons for them, can help protect them from these unhealthy habits. You also should know the warning signs of tobacco use and constructive ways to help someone kick the habit.

Nicotine affects mood as well as the heart, lungs, stomach, and nervous system. Other health risks include short-term effects of smoking such as coughing and throat irritation. Over time, more serious conditions may develop, including increases in heart rate and blood pressure, bronchitis, and emphysema. Finally, numerous studies indicate that young smokers are more likely to experiment with marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or other illicit drugs. Kids might be drawn to smoking and chewing tobacco for any number of reasons — to look cool, act older, lose weight, win cool merchandise, seem tough, or feel independent. But parents can combat those draws and keep kids from trying — and getting addicted to — tobacco. Establish a good foundation of communication with your kids early on to make it easier to work through tricky issues like tobacco use. The health risks of tobacco are well known, but kids and teens continue to smoke and use chewing tobacco. Many young people pick up these habits every year — in fact, 90% of all adult smokers started when they were kids. Each day, more than 3,900 kids become regular smokers.

So it's important to make sure kids understand the dangers of tobacco use. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States, and can cause cancer, heart disease, and lung disease. Chewing tobacco (smokeless or spit tobacco) can lead to nicotine addiction, oral cancer, gum disease, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks.

Mrs. Anita Chaudhary
(Clinical Psychologist)
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

harm of alcohal

Drinking Frequency Counts, Too

The risk also increases if you binge drink or drink heavily on a frequent basis, according to National Institutes of Health research. If you drink heavily only one day a month, your chances of having an alcohol use disorder is about 20%. But if you exceed the guidelines once a week, the chances jump to 33%.

For those who drink heavily twice a week, the chances of developing a problem is 50% - one in every two people. These percentages were found in a study of the drinking patterns of more than 43,000 U.S. adults.

Shalini puri

Dietician

ASHA USA MINI MEDICINE CITI

New Study About Depression

Depression risk in women may decrease with increased consumption of caffeinated coffee, according to a new study. during 10 year follow-up period from 1996 to 2006, researchers identified 2,607 incident cases of depression. when compared with women who consumed one cup of caffeinated coffee or less per week, those4 who consumed two to three cups per day had a 15% decrease in relative risk for depression, and those consuming four cups or more per day had a 20% decrease in relative risk. they note that this observation study " cannot prove that caffeine or caffeinated coffee reduces the risk of depression but only suggested the possibility of such a protective effects". the study was recently published in Archives of Internal Medicine. 

Mrs. Anita Chaudhary

(Clinical Psychologist)

(Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi)

HOW TO CONTROL SUGAR

Here are some tips to help you minimise your sugar intake:

• Cut down slowly – Gradually over a few weeks add less sugar to your hot drinks or choose your usual chocolate bar less often.
• Drink water – Instead of soft drink, sports drinks, juice or cordial, quench your thirst with water, herbal or fruit teas. If you find it hard to drink enough plain water, add a squeeze of lemon or lime and always carry a bottle of water with you.
• Focus on whole foods – Choose snacks such as fresh fruit, nuts or natural yoghurt, and plan to eat these before tucking into sweet biscuits, chocolate or cakes. Chances are  your desire for the sweet food will have diminished.
• Limit your sweet treats – Save those indulgences such as lollies, chocolate, cakes, biscuits and soft drinks for special occasions. And enjoy them when you do!
• Choose quality over quantity – When you do have sweets, choose the best you can afford and buy less - that way you will really enjoy the taste and flavour and feel good about what you’re eating! 
• Read labels – In general, choose foods with less than 10g sugar per 100g

            Shalini puri

            Dietician

            ASHA USA MINI MEDICINE CITY

Sex Education In Children

It's a natural part of life to have sexual feelings. As people pass from childhood, through adolescence, to adulthood, their sexual feelings develop and change. During the teen years, sexual feelings are awakened in new ways because of the hormonal and physical changes of puberty. These changes involve both the body and the mind, and teens tend to wonder about new — and often intense — sexual feelings. It takes time for many people to understand who they are and who they're becoming. Part of that understanding includes a person's sexual feelings and attractions. Teens — both boys and girls — often find themselves having sexual thoughts and attractions. For some, these feelings and thoughts can be intense — and even confusing or disturbing. That may be especially true for people who are having romantic or sexual thoughts about someone of the same gender. "What does that mean," they might think. "Am I gay? Thinking sexually about both the same sex and the opposite sex is quite common as teens sort through their emerging sexual feelings. This type of imagining about people of the same or opposite sex doesn't necessarily mean that a person fits into a particular type of sexual orientation. Some teens may also experiment with sexual experiences, including those with members of the same sex, during the years they are exploring their own sexuality. These experiences, by themselves, do not necessarily mean that a teen is gay or straight.

No matter what someone's sexual orientation is, learning about sexuality and relationships can be difficult for a teen to come to terms with. It can help a teen to talk to someone about the confusing feelings that go with growing up, whether it's a parent, another family member, a close friend or sibling, or a school counselor. It's not always easy for a teen to find somebody to talk to, but many of them find that confiding in someone they trust and feel close to, even if they're not completely sure how that person will react, turns out to be a positive experience. In many communities, resources such as youth groups composed of teens who are facing similar issues can provide opportunities for people to talk to others who understand. Psychologists, psychiatrists, family doctors, and trained counselors can help teens cope — confidentially and privately — with the difficult feelings that go with their developing sexuality. These experts can also help teens to find ways to deal with any peer pressure, harassment, and bullying they may face. They can also help parents manage any complicated feelings they may be having as they come to terms with their teen's sexuality. Parents can help by becoming more knowledgeable about issues of sexuality — and learning to be more comfortable discussing them. Parents also can help their teen gain access to a doctor or health professional who will provide reliable health advice.

 Mrs. Anita Chaudhary
(Clinical Psychologist)
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Dry Skin In Winter

Winter can dry skin on face and be extremely hard on your skin. The face in particular, needs extra dry skin care during the winter season because it is constantly exposed to the elements and the skin on the face is one of the most sensitive areas of the body.

Dry skin is a very common skin problem and is often worse during the winter (“winter itch”) when environmental humidity is low. A dry face skin type may feel as if the skin is being tightly drawn over bones, feeling stretched, taut, uncomfortable and sometimes even itchy. The skin on the cheeks and the area around the lips could be quite sensitive becoming red, irritated, inflamed and peel. Petrolatum, lanolin, and moisturizing oils such as wheat germ oil, jojoba oil, mineral oil, or safflower seed oil will effectively trap water in the skin.

Many anti aging dry skin care products are available that combine moisturizing cream for dry skin with sunscreen.

The dry skin on face includes the lips. The lips need to be protected because they become chapped easily during the winter especially since they’re regularly exposed to the elements and are not protected by oil glands like the rest of the face. Apply a small amount of daily face scrub on your lips. Gently scrub lips using small circular motions with finger tip or soft toothbrush. This wipes out dry, dead, flaky skin and leaves behind soft, supple lips. Apply lip balm. Help for dry skin on face can also come from the foods we eat and the amount of water we drink. When it’s cold outside we don’t get thirsty and we tend to have to be more vigilant about drinking enough water. This is a bigger challenge than usual in winter.

Ms. Vineeta Bhardhwaj
(Admin Manager)
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi)

Bedwetting In Children

Bedwetting (also called nighttime or nocturnal enuresis) is a common childhood problem. Children learn to control daytime urination as they become aware of their bladder filling. Once this occurs, the child then learns to consciously control and coordinate his or her bladder. This generally occurs by four years of age. Nighttime bladder control usually takes longer and is not expected until a child is between five and seven years old. (See "Patient information: Toilet training".)

The number of children with bed wetting varies by age; at five years of age, 16 percent of children have some difficulty staying dry at night. By 15 years of age, only 1 to 2 percent continue to wet the bed. Boys are twice as likely as girls to wet the bed.

Motivational therapy — Motivational therapy involves keeping a record of progress, with bigger rewards for longer periods of dryness. You and the child should agree about the reward in advance and might progress from a sticker on a calendar for each dry night to a favorite book for seven consecutive dry nights.The child should practice a self-awakening routine before bedtime every night. Have the child lie on the bed, pretend it is the middle of the night, and feel that the bladder is full. Ask the child to imagine that his or her bladder is saying, "Wake up before it's too late." The child then goes to the bathroom. 

Bedwetting alarms — Enuresis alarms are the most effective method for controlling bedwetting. They are typically reserved for children older than seven years of age. Alarms are not generally used first since they are moderately priced and require the child and parent to be highly motivated. You may consider trying alarm therapy after three to six months of other behavioral training techniques, before treatment with medication. 

Overlearning — Overlearning can help improve the long-term success of enuresis alarms. Overlearning involves use of an enuresis alarm, as described above, until the child is dry for three to four weeks. The child is then allowed to drink 6 ounces (3/4 cup) of water in the hour before bedtime. The child then wears the enuresis alarm to sleep. By filling the bladder, the child's ability to awaken before wetting the bed is challenged, hence the concept of "overlearning. 

Desmopressin — Desmopressin, also known as DDAVP, is a medication that decreases urine production. It is available as a pill and is taken at bedtime to reduce the amount of urine made during sleep. It is generally recommended for brief periods (eg, overnight camps or sleepovers), although it can be used on a nightly basis.

 Mrs. Anita Chaudhary

(Clinical Psychologist)

Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Laughter the Best Medicine

Humorous quotes are not only just a balm to the fatigued mind; they also perk up our mood. Whenever we feel down and out, it is time for recreation. One of my favorite activities is to grab a drink and read some humorous quotes. These funny quotes had never failed to inspire and bring laughter to me
After all, laughter is the best medicine.

Rayees Ahmad Wani
Clinical Manager
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

All drugs are poisons the benefit depends on the dosage


Dr Rupali Sharma  
Family Physician
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Control Aggressive Behavior In Children

Aggressive behavior at an early age can lead to problems later on. All children need a certain level of aggression. Without it they are likely to become targets for other children. If your child gets angry from time to time it is nothing to worry about either. Anger and aggression start to become problems when a child attacks another child or adult. This is likely to be shown by biting and hitting. There are three main causes of aggression in children. These are frustration, attention seeking and being territorial.  To help you overcome the problems of aggression in a child here are our top 10 tips: 

Watch for triggers 

Try and work out if there are triggers that regularly cause aggressive behavior. It can be as simple as children regularly arguing and becoming aggressive over what television program to watch. 

Be careful how you react 

If you react to any problems in the home by shouting or hitting out, your children will learn from you that this is acceptable behavior at stressful times. Therefore if they are in a situation that they find frustrating they are likely to react in a similar, aggressive manner. 

Discuss appropriate and in appropriate behavior 

For example explain that when they hit or bite it hurts and that other children are unlikely to want to play with them in the future. 

Give attention and show affection 

All children need attention and affection. This is especially true for older children with younger siblings. A first born child gets used to a certain amount of attention and affection. 

Monitor TV programs and play 

Although the effect of television on children can be overstated there could be a link between your child's aggression and what they watch on television. 

 Monitor the influence of friends 

If you have always lived in a quiet, peaceful environment then the introduction of a new friend can have an impact on the way your child behaves. 

Give warning time 

Most children get frustrated and can show aggression if they are busy playing and you suddenly tell them it is time to go. Although it is not always possible try to give them warning that it is nearly time to stop playing. 

Provide alternative toys and stimulus 

If you sense a child is getting board or frustrated with what they are doing be ready to suggest trying something different. 

Encourages a child to discuss problems 

The more you talk to a child the easier they will find it to establish their own vocabulary and be able to express their frustrations verbally. In quiet periods explain to your child how they can resolve their differences through discussion and negotiation rather than through hitting out. 

Praise good behavior 

If you have taken your child somewhere and they have behaved well or if they have had a good day at home then praise them. This will make your child feel good and want to behave in a positive manner more often. 

Mrs. Anita Chaudhary

(Clinical Psychologist)

Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Bullying At Home

 One day Arjuna(5 years old) was playing with his 6 years old cousin Shyam at his place. They both were enjoying their company then came the eldest cousin Deepak 8 years old. Deepak started teasing Arjuna - you are a baby, you are bad boy, we both won't play with you, come on Shyam we are not going to talk to Arjuna... after this Deepak and Shyam left Arjuna alone...He felt bad and cried for hours

This is not a only one incidence.. these kind of scenes are common between Arjuna and Deepak. He is always nasty with Arjuna... parents ignore his behavior saying Deepak behave in such a manner only with Arjuna otherwise he is good to others.

What will you call this? Isn't it bullying?  ..... Why is Deepak nasty with someone and not with others? .... Simple, he is a smart boy, he knows well where he can get away with his bad behavior and where he cant. If he behaves similarly with some formal guest, parents are not going to ignore this and also he will loose his friend so he is nice to them. ...... My concern is for both Deepak as well as Arjuna. Arjuna who is subjected to bullying at this small age on regular basis will grow up with several complexes, also he can try this with someone weaker than him.... on the other hand Deepak who is enjoying this phase might be having some emotional issues which are left unattended, these can lead to different emotional problems in this child.... he may have low self worth or his need for power and control is unfulfilled. This child can grow up as bully as well... also it is possible that he is facing such behavior somewhere which he is passing to his younger brother.

 What do you think are the possible solutions for this situation????

Please do suggest, waiting for your valuable suggestions.


Regards

Shweta Tilak
Psychologist
Asha usa (Mini Medicine Citi) 

Tips for Feeding Babies from Birth to Birthday

Breast-feeds – For several months, atleast till nine months.

Formula feeds if breast milk is inadequate. Avoid Cow’s milk or dairy milk till six months of age.

Juices are introduced at the age of 60 days. Orange juice or tomato juice, given initially diluted with water, after one month undiluted fruit juices.

Introduce semi-solid foods when the infant is six kg or by the age four months (When the baby starts chewing).

Start with small serving sizes of one to two teaspoonfuls; increase gradually to three or four tablespoonfuls per feeding.

First introduce rice cereal, later try other cereals. Mixed cereals (wheat, rice and ragi), heat-treated and powdered, cooked, as porridge will serve as a useful, semi-solid diet. Add a drop of oil or ghee if needed, for more weight gain. If mashed fruits (Banana) 4-5 months, vegetables by 5-6 months (mashed potatoes, carrots, beetroots, green leaves etc). Rice, dhal with ghee, iddli, greens, spinach) etc, by six to seven months

Provide an intake of milk 500-750ml daily when the intake of solid food is well established.

Provide solid food of a texture compatible with infant’s ability to chew and swallow.

Give single ingredient foods at a time and continue for five days before introducing another food.

Avoid developing infant’s taste for an excess of salt or sugar.

Biscuits (Marie) by seven months.

Curds by seven to eight months


Meenakshi Pal
Admin Manager
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

The First Cry Of Baby

The cry of the newborn child is one of the most welcome events that occur at childbirth. This cry is a healthy sign. It helps to increase the blood circulation through the baby's body and improve the oxygen supply to vital organs like the brain. If the child does not cry within five minutes after birth there is a chance of the child having suffered neurological damage.




Dr Rupali Sharma
Family Physician
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Immune System

The human immune system is a truly amazing constellation of responses to attacks from outside the body. It has many facets, a number of which can change to optimize the response to these unwanted intrusions. The system is remarkably effective, most of the time. This note will give you a brief outline of some of the processes involved.
An antigen is any substance that elicits an immune response, from a virus to a sliver.
The immune system has a series of dual natures, the most important of which is self/non-self recognition. The others are: general/specific, natural/adaptive = innate/acquired, cell-mediated/humoral, active/passive, primary/secondary. Parts of the immune system are antigen-specific (they recognize and act against particular antigens), systemic (not confined to the initial infection site, but work throughout the body), and have memory (recognize and mount an even stronger attack to the same antigen the next time).
Self/non-self recognition is achieved by having every cell display a marker based on the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). Any cell not displaying this marker is treated as non-self and attacked. The process is so effective that undigested proteins are treated as antigens.
Sometimes the process breaks down and the immune system attacks self-cells. This is the case of autoimmune body like multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and some forms of arthritis and diabetes. There are cases where the immune response to innocuous substances is inappropriate. This is the case of allergies and the simple substance that elicits the response is called an allergens




Rayees Ahmad Wani
Clinical Manager
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Improve Your Child Behavior

All children have episodes of bad behavior, some more frequently and severely and others less. Using these three steps will improve your child's behavior and reduce the frequency and severity of any child behavior problem.

Relationship- A loving, stable relationship between parents and children is the basis for the child's healthy social development. Tell your child you love him and show your love by taking time to listen, to play, and to teach. The parent-child relationship is built on the words you say and the tone of your voice. It is strengthened by the laughter you share and the games you play together. It is forever bonded by  the values and skills you pass on to your child every day.

Planning- Planning is the secret of good parenting. Watch your expectations so that you plan for good behavior rather than dread the bad. Most children's behavior problems occur during times of transition and adjustment. Planning involves knowing your child, her temperament and skills, and knowing the challenges of her environment. Use direct instruction, guidance, and practice opportunities to teach the skills she will need to cope with new challenges in the journey of childhood.

Response-Attentiveness and response are the tools for improving your child's behavior. An understanding of behavior modification principles will help you plan your responses to improve behavior. It all comes down to actions and consequences. When a child's action elicits positive reinforcement, it will be repeated over time. 

Parents can help make the connection by talking to the child about what they did and why it lead to a certain consequence. But, as parents, our responses to our child's actions are powerful consequences, either rewarding or punishing and therefore, shaping his behavior. In the context of a positive parent-child relationship, your approval or disapproval is usually enough of a response to reinforce or punish a behavior. 

The key is to attend to your child's attitude, moods, and behavior; and then, respond to both good and bad behavior quickly. Learn to recognize when bad behavior is being reinforced or good behavior is being extinguished, and adjust the consequences to turn it around. This requires that we be attentive to our child and make the right response.

                                                                                         Mrs Anita Chaudhary
                                                                                        (Clinical Psychologist)
                                                                                  Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Importance Of Sleep

Sleep helps to repair your body. Your body produces extra protein molecules while you're sleeping that helps strengthen your ability to fight infection and stay healthy. 

Sleep helps keep your heart healthy. Your cardiovascular system is constantly under pressure and sleep helps to reduce the levels of stress and inflammation in your body. High levels of "inflammatory markers" are linked to heart disease and strokes. Sleep can also help keep blood pressure and cholesterol levels (which play a role in heart disease) in check.

Sleep reduces stress. A good night's sleep can help lower blood pressure and elevated levels of stress hormones, which are a natural result of today's fast paced lifestyle.  Sleep helps to slow these effects and encourages a state of relaxation.

Sleep improves your memory. That 'foggy' feeling that you struggle with when deprived of sleep makes it difficult to concentrate. This often leads to memory problems with facts, faces, lessons, or even conversations. One of the great benefits of sleep is that it allows your brain to better process new experiences and knowledge, increasing your understanding and retention. So, next time you hear someone say "why don't you sleep on it," take their advice.

Sleep helps control body weight issues. Sleep helps regulate the hormones that affect and control your appetite. Studies have shown that when your body is deprived of sleep, the normal hormone balances are interrupted and your appetite increases. So, if you're trying to lose those stubborn few pounds that just keep hanging around, consider the benefits of sleep on weight control and make sure that getting enough sleep each day. For more information on sleep and body weight,

Sleep reduces your chances of diabetes Researchers have shown that lack of sleep may lead to type 2 diabetes by affecting how your body processes glucose, which is the carbohydrate your cells use for fuel. Other research initiatives have revealed that adults who usually sleep less than five hours per night have a greatly increased risk of developing diabetes.

Sleep reduces the occurrence of mood disorders. With insufficient sleep during the night, many people become agitated or moody the following day. Yet, when limited sleep becomes a chronic issue, studies have shown it can lead to long-term mood disorders such as depression or anxiety. The benefits of sleep are extensive and can make a difference in your quality of life, as well as the length of your life. Therefore, it is vital to place a priority on getting ample, consistent sleep. 

Ms. Vineeta Bhardwaj
(ADMIN MANAGER)
ASHA USA MINI MEDICINE CITI

Abnormal Number of Neurons in Brains of Children With Autism, Preliminary Study Finds

 In a small, preliminary study that included 13 male children, those with autism had an average 67 percent more prefrontal brain neurons and larger than average brain weight, than children without autism.
Shalini puri
Dietician
Asha USA mini medicine citi
Gurgaon

source-

science daily

November.8.2011

Diabetes, high BP kill faster than HIV

HIV has a much lower impact on survival and life expectancy than cancer, severe diabetes or nasty high blood pressure. person with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is likely to live longer than the one with severe diabetes or high blood pressure. While AIDS virus cuts life by five years if contracted in 20s, when compared to, say, diabetes, which takes away 10-15 years, if developed when a person is in 40s. India has 2.39 million people living with HIV, and 50.8 million with diabetes. “New medicines have transformed HIV from a death sentence into a chronic disease that has a very, very small impact on your life expectancy if you start treatment early and do not smoke, drink or have diabetes,“ says Dr Charles Gilks, UNAIDS country coordinator for India. “HIV has a much lower impact on survival and life expectancy than cancer, severe diabetes or nasty high blood pressure.“ This is borne out from survival data from North America and Europe, which, says Gilks, holds true even for less developed countries such as India, where malnutrition lowers immunity further and puts people with HIV at higher risk of infections such as tuberculosis and pneumonia. HIV wrecks the body's immune system to the point where it cannot fight off common bacterial, viral and fungal infections, which eventually cause death. HIV drugs keep the virus levels down. India treats 4.48 lakh people free under a national programme. The cost of antiretroviral therapy (ART) used to treat HIV is the cheapest in India, with first-line treatment costing the government R5,000/person/year, and secondline therapy -for people with immunity against the first-line drugs -priced at R29,000/person/year. About 26,000 people are on second-line treatment. “Currently, 4.48 lakh people get free ART under the national programme in 324 centres across India. Everyone who needs treatment is being treated free under the government programme, there is no waiting,“ said Dr BB Rewari, national programme officer, the National AIDS Control Organisation, India (NACO). Estimates for people living with HIV were halved in India, from a peak of 5.7 million in 2006 to the current 2.39 million at the end of 2009, the latest year for which data is available. The UN credits the downward trend to both improved data collection methods and an actual fall in new infections. “With HIV data staying under 2.5 million for over 5 years in India, complacency should not set in, as it did in North America, where infection has shot up among vulnerable groups, such as injecting drug users and men who have sex with men,“ says Dr Charles Gilks, UNAIDS Country Coordinator for India. Investments in ART programmes benefits economic activity and labour-force productivity, with gains expected to reach up to $34 billion and 18.5 million life years in lowand middle-income countries by 2020, said the UNAIDS Report on Global HIV/AIDS Response 2011, which was released on Wednesday. This more than offsets the costs of free ART programmes. Following the global financial crisis, international funding for HIV programmes fell in 2010. Current annual funding is estimated to be $16 billion, well below the $22-24 billion needed annually by 2015. source :hindustan times  Ankit

Understanding Child's Behavior

Hi All!
Want to share some experience............ Yesterday at children's park I saw Priyank playing with his new remote controlled helicopter, then came Harsh, Priyank showed him his new toy and shared it with him. Harsh asked his mom to buy the same for him. Mom said no...... Harsh started crying badly....... Harsh - "You don't do any thing for me, I don't have any toy which I can show to my friends!" Mom - "Stop crying Harsh, don't be stubborn...... Harsh - why cant you buy this for me???? Mom- I said no, that's enough for you, don't cry otherwise everyone will call you bad boy............".
After some time Harsh went to play with Priyank and he broke his toy....... mom slapped harsh and took him home crying..................

Why playground turns to battle field???? What was lacking in mother child interaction??? I think it was empathy...... what do you think Harsh's reaction would have been if he would have been addressed like this...
" I understand you like the toy very much and want to buy this... can we discuss about it together at dinning table? If we all find it possible we will buy this." or " We have come to the park to have fun no? Why do you want to  spoil your fun time, we will talk about it latter."

How often do we think about the reason behind child's tantrums? Why he broke Priyank's toy.... was he jealous... do we make our kid realize that he was frustrated, or jealous or feeling inferior?? Most of the  kids know only two emotions - happiness and anger. Don't you think we should teach them about all the emotions we have? Tell them that it is all right to be angry, to be jealous, to be frustrated, to feel inferior sometimes. Tell them that you also feel the same sometime. Tell them the effective way to handle these emotions. Try to connect with your child, observe them, tell them clearly what you expect from them, explain them the reasons behind your expectation, never break promises, listen to them and respect their feelings and thoughts, explain whenever you say no.....  most important of all say I love you to your child often.....you will see the difference in your relationship with your child. You will find it easy to discipline them if you respect them, understand them and connect with them. All that you need to do is to empathize. Always think 'how you would have thought or felt if you were there at your child's place.' Make your parent hood a smooth journey rather than a  battle  field.

All the very best and Happy parenting to all of you!!!!!!!!!!


Shweta Tilak
Psychologist
Asha USA (Mini Medicine Citi)

HIV-ADS

HIV ADS- Mental health problems can strike anybody, but people with HIV are more likely to experience a range of mental health issues. Most common are feelings of acute emotional distress, depression, and anxiety, which can often accompany adverse life-events. HIV also can directly infect the brain, causing impairment to memory and thinking. In addition, some anti-HIV drugs can have mental health side effects.

 Receiving an HIV diagnosis can produce strong emotional reactions. Initial feelings of shock and denial can turn to fear, guilt, anger, sadness, and a sense of hopelessness. Support from family and friends can be very helpful at these times, as can professional help. If you are feeling emotionally distressed, it is important that you talk about your feelings. Depression is a serious medical condition that can be paralyzing to sufferers. It is twice as common in people with HIV as in the general population. There are many different types of treatments for depression, including antidepressants and specific types of psychotherapy, or "talk" therapy. Treatment, however, must be carefully chosen by a physician or a mental health professional based on the patient’s physical and mental condition. Each HIV patient and each experience of anxiety is unique and must be treated as such. Many drugs offer effective treatment, and many alternative remedies have proven useful, either alone or in combination with medication. Among them: muscle relaxation, acupuncture, meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, aerobic exercise, and supportive group therapy. Substance use is very common among those with HIV infection. Unfortunately, substance use can trigger and often complicate mental health problems. For many, mental health problems predate substance use activity. Substance use can increase levels of distress, interfere with treatment adherence, and lead to impairment in thinking and memory. Direct or indirect effects of the HIV virus can affect brain functioning. Some medications used to treat HIV infection also can cause similar complications. In people with HIV infection or AIDS, these complications can have a significant impact on daily functioning and greatly diminish quality of life. Among the most common disorders are HIV-associated minor cognitive motor disorder, HIV-1-associated dementia complex, delirium, and psychosis. Signs of trouble may include forgetfulness, confusion, attention deficits, slurred or changed speech, sudden changes in mood or behavior, difficulty walking, muscle weakness, slowed thinking, and difficulty finding words. HIV infection and AIDS affect all aspects of a person’s life. Those with HIV/AIDS must adapt to a chronic, life-threatening illness and corresponding physical and mental challenges. They often face a myriad of emotional demands such as stress, anger, grief, helplessness, depression, and cognitive disorders. If you have concerns about your or a loved one’s reaction to an HIV diagnosis, or if you have questions about the mental problems associated with HIV/AIDS, discuss them with a doctor or counselor. Treatments are available and can greatly improve quality of life.

Ms. Vineeta Bhardwaj
(Admin Manager)
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Sexually transmitted disease (STD), also known as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or venereal disease (VD), is an illness that has a significant probability of transmission between humans by means of  , including  vaginal intercourse, oral sex, and anal Sex. While in the past, these illnesses have mostly been referred to as STDs or VD, in recent years the term sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has been preferred, as it has a broader range of meaning; a person may be infected, and may potentially infect others, without having a disease. Some STIs can also be transmitted via the use of IV Drug needles after its use by an infected person, as well as through Child Birth or Breast feeding. Sexually transmitted infections have been well known for hundreds of years.

Rupali Sharma
Family Physician
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Prevention Of STD

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are the infections that you might get when you have sex with a person who is already infected.
These infections can pass on to you through vaginal and/or anal intercourse, oral sex and even skin contact. STDs can affect both men and women but the complications in women are more severe than in men. 

How are STDs caused? 
Sexually transmitted diseases can be caused by bacteria, parasites or viruses (see Box). The risk of getting an STD is very high for individuals who have sex with multiple partners or have sex with people who have had multiple partners. Risk of STDs is also higher in individuals who do not use preventive methods, such as a condom
Meenakshi Pal
HR And Admin Manager
Asha USA Mini Medicine Citi

Aids

 Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic, life-threatening disease caused by a virus called human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The virus and the infection are known as HIV. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is a term used to refer to the later stages of the infection.

Your body’s immune protects you from diseases. But when the HIV virus attacks your body’s Immune it damages and/or destroys the Cells of your Immune System making you easily prone to various infections.

Your body loses its ability to fight off viruses, bacteria and fungi that cause infections and disease.

Causes of HIV
HIV spreads through sex—oral, anal or vaginal—with an infected person or through blood when you share a needle used by an infected person for injecting yourself with drugs. Most commonly, the virus passes from person to person through body fluids such as blood, vaginal fluids and Semen

Babies born to infected mothers are also at a high risk of getting infected during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding. But if women receive treatment for HIV infection during pregnancy, the risk to their babies is significantly reduced.

Rayees Ahmad Wani
Clinical Manager
Asha USA mini Medicine Citi

Eating fish reduces risk of Alzheimer’s five-fold

Eating fish reduces risk of Alzheimer’s five-fold

Kounteya Sinha TNN

Chicago: India’s fish eating population has something to cheer about.
    A new research presented at Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) Congress says that consuming baked or broiled fish reduces the risk for five-year decline to mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease by almost five-fold.
    The results showed that people who consumed baked or broiled fish at least once a week had better preservation of grey matter volume on MRI in brain areas at risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
    “This is the first major study to link fish consumption with reduction in risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI),” said lead author Cyrus Raji from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
    “The findings showed that consumption of baked or broiled fish on a weekly basis was positively associated with grey matter volumes in several areas of the brain. Greater hippocampal, posterior cingulated and orbital frontal cortex volumes in relation to fish consumption were recorded,” he added.
    The results also demonstrated increased levels of cognition in people who ate baked or broiled fish.
    In MCI, memory loss is present, but to a lesser extent than in Alzheimer’s. People with MCI often go on to develop Alzheimer’s.
    Grey matter volume is crucial to brain health. When it remains higher, brain health is being maintained. Decrease in grey matter volume indicate that brain cells are shrinking.
    For the study, 260 cognitively normal individuals were selected. Information on fish consumption was gathered. There were 163 patients who consumed fish on a weekly basis, and the majority ate fish one to four times a week. Each patient underwent 3-D volumetric MRI of the brain.

ankit

source:TOI

Diet for HIV

Dietary Supplements
Dietary supplements are commonly used in an effort to boost the immune system. Foods or substances derived from foods (garlic, Chinese bitter melon, and turmeric) are used, as well as nonfood dietary supplements such as shark cartilage or blue-green algae (spirulina). Vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are also used in an attempt to boost the immune system.

Supplements can be beneficial as just that: supplements to a well balanced healing foods diet. Supplements are not a substitute for the vitamins in food. If you`d like to start taking supplements, consult with an HIV nutrition specialist to help you develop a supplement regimen that meets your needs. In general: 

• Use supplements consistently for 6-8 weeks in order to see results.
• Never take supplements on an empty stomach: they will be absorbed more effectively if you take them with food.
• Tell your primary care provider about the supplements that you are taking.

Some specific supplement suggestions are:
• Protein/Calorie (Boost, Ensure, etc.)
Use: weight gain
*not for people with severe thrush or yeast infections

• Protein Powders (whey, glutamine, soy)
Use: increase protein intake (can help build/preserve muscle mass)
*not for people with severe liver or kidney disease

• Therapeutic Multivitamins
Use: provides 100% of the recommended daily allowance of many vitamins

• Selenium
Use: antioxidant
This is the only supplement directly related to improved mortality in HIV infection. The recommended daily allowance can be obtained in 1-2 Brazil nuts or in pill form.

• Alpha Lipoic/Thioctic Acid
Use: antioxidant
Good for liver detoxification and neuropathy relief.

• Calcium
Use: preserves bone, muscle, and nerve function
May help treat diarrhea.

• Coenzyme Q10
Use: support body`s energy pathways
May aid in mitochondrial toxicity from long-term antiretroviral use.

SOURCE

 HealingHIV: How to Rebuild Your Immune System by Jon Kaiser and Nutrition and HIV: A New Model for Treatment by Mary Romeyn.

Shalini puri

Dietician

ASHA USA mini medicine citi

Fast food and Children

Add caption

The excess sugar in the fast foods and sodas lead to diabetes in children. Children develop type 2 diabetes that generally affect our grandparents and parents. Their bodies fail to produce the insulin that controls the sugar levels and metabolism.

Fats and saturated fats lead to high levels of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol leads to various heart problems. These heart problems increase the risk of major heart diseases. It may lead to dyslipidemia when the LDL levels and triglycerides are abnormally high. It puts one at risk of coronary heart diseases.

The excessive sodium leads to high blood pressure. High blood pressure leads to ruptures and cracks in the blood vessel walls. The body uses lipoprotein to repair these walls converting it into a substance that contains cholesterol thus, indirectly increasing the cholesterol levels.

Children become anemic as they do not get the required vitamins and iron supplements necessary for their growth. Children become lethargic and become tired easily. Green vegetables and fresh fruits become almost non-existent in their diet, causing a deficiency in macro and micro nutrient supplements in their bodies. This decreases the immunity and children become susceptible to various diseases and ailments. Deficiency in calcium makes their teeth, nails and bones brittle. Many times the added preservatives and coloring agents used in fast foods can cause cancer in children.

The most common and the root cause of all the diseases in children, due to fast food is obesity. Fast food obesity is the root cause for major diseases that can develop in children. According to research, 15-20% of American children in the age group of 12-18 years are overweight. Obese children spend little time in physical activity or sports, leading to a sedentary lifestyle which leads to mental stress and other emotional disturbances. Even if children are active, they tend to weigh more than their peers, who do not consume fast foods. As mentioned earlier, fast foods do not give the children a feeling of fullness. This makes them feel hungry most of the time, which leads to overeating and increase in weight.

SO NEVER THINK IN THIS WAY--"BACHA KUCHH NAHIN KHA RAHA TO CHALO FAST FOOD HI DE DIYA JAYE"
YOU ARE DOING MORE HARM THAN GOOD




WEB DOWNLOAD--DR ATUL AHUJA