Unmasking Air Pollution’s Impact on Pulmonary Health

Unmasking Air Pollution’s Impact on Pulmonary Health

Unmasking Air Pollution’s Impact on Pulmonary Health

Over the past few decades, air pollution and climate change have become major global concerns. Air pollution has many detrimental effects that pose a threat to global public health in terms of significant disease burden as well as mortality. It is disturbing that severe air pollution is increasing at an alarming rate, especially in India, where major cities like New Delhi and other urban areas are noted for being extremely polluted. The acceleration of activities linked to increased urbanization, transportation, and industrialization are the main sources of this pollution spike1,2. As per current statistics of the World Health Organization (WHO), the ambient air pollution combined with household air pollution causes approximately 6.7 million premature deaths each year in low- and middle-income nations, and 9 million fatalities worldwide1,3.

Dr. Neeraj Mahajan, Scientist, AIIMS, New Delhi

One important indicator of the level of pollution is the Air Quality Index (AQI). India faces significant challenges related to poor air quality as majority of the metropolitan cities in India have a high AQI score due to continuously increasing air pollution. According to IQAir4, 14 out 20 world’s most polluted cities are located in India. As a quickly developing nation with an expanding population, India suffers from extreme air pollution. This problem is mostly caused by factors such as emissions from vehicles, industrial activities, and biomass burning. Sadly, exposure to pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) can cause severe respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and even premature deaths. Although strict regulations and initiatives such as the National Clean Air Programme, have been implemented by government to reduce air pollution, more comprehensive strategies are needed. Thus, this issue needs to be addressed to safeguard the public health and the environment.

The broad spectrum of health effects primarily consists of less severe effects like upper respiratory tract distress to a consistent array of pulmonary and cardio-respiratory disorders, such as asthma and acute respiratory tract infection in children under five, and lung cancer and chronic bronchitis in adults.  The most common consequences of brief exposure to air pollution are coughing, eyes and nose irritations, wheezing, and allergies that manifest into serious conditions like asthma, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This leads to an increase in morbidity index due to higher rate of hospitalization. While prolonged exposure leads to pulmonary dysfunctionality in addition to other cardiac issues and results in shorter life span of the individual1.2.

Moreover, with adverse effects on immune functionality through development of various health conditions, such as pneumonia, asthma, diabetes, and cardio-respiratory diseases, the affected individuals can become prone to PM2.5 and PM10 as they can penetrate to internal spaces due to their small size causing further respiratory disorders. Meanwhile, significant impact on pulmonary health is also influenced by factors such as season, time, country and region of air pollutants exposure1. Long term occupational interface with various pollutants in industrial settings as well as continuous exposure to indoor air pollution from cooking fuels, such as biomass, animal dung, and coal exacerbate respiratory issues in adults5.

Children in comparison to adults are more susceptible to respiratory ailments due to their higher vulnerability to air pollutants and subsequent lung function development. Impeded lung growth and adverse effect on lung function with development of exacerbated asthma, bronchitis and infections might occur on enhanced exposure to air pollution during childhood. Studies evaluating assessment of pulmonary function in children with its extension into adulthood considering air pollution exposure, and disease impact or both may provide better insights on effects of air pollution on lung functionality. In addition to aforementioned, air pollution has been associated with increased risks of low birth weight, premature birth, and developmental issues in a child’s respiratory system. Air pollution mitigation strategies both at larger strata like structural reforms and regulations at national, regional, and local levels, and local measures such as minimizing exposure to air pollution at home and during school hours are necessary steps for reducing the impact of air pollution on child’s well-being6. Some common ways to reduce air pollution may include- promoting cleaner energy sources, improving air quality monitoring systems, reviewing industry and vehicle emission standards, and raising public awareness about the health risks associated with air pollution and how to prevent them.

References:

  1. Manisalidis I, et al. Environmental and Health Impacts of Air Pollution: A Review. Front Public Health. 2020; 8:14.
  2. Kampa M, and Castanas E. Human health effects of air pollution. Environ Pollut. 2008; 151(2):362-7.
  3. Air Pollution. WHO. Available online (accessed on 25-02-24) https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ambient-(outdoor)-air-quality-and-health.
  4. https://www.iqair.com/in-en/world-most-polluted-cities
  5. De Matteis S, et al. Current and new challenges in occupational lung diseases. Eur Respir Rev. 2017; 26(146):170080.
  6. Garcia E, Rice MB, and Gold DR. Air pollution and lung function in children. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2021; 148(1):1-14.
Cracking Cheese Codes: Healthy Choices, Labels, and Storage Tips

Cracking Cheese Codes: Healthy Choices, Labels, and Storage Tips

Cracking Cheese Codes: Healthy Choices, Labels, and Storage Tips

Cheese is a creamy, tangy, versatile delight that can elevate any dish and melt our hearts and taste buds in seconds. However, it is often thought to have negative effects on our health. With a little mindfulness, you can make healthier choices when it comes to this delicious treat. In this article, we discuss different types of cheeses, deciphering labels while making choices, and unlocking storage secrets related to cheese.                                                                                                                                                             

Richa Pande

Cheese is made with fresh milk from cows, goats, sheep, or buffaloes. The milk is pasteurized, and sometimes the fat content is standardized. Starter cultures are added to ferment the milk, which increases its acidity and develops its flavour. The next step is to add rennet, which is an enzyme that curdles the milk proteins into solid curds. The curds are then shaped, pressed, salted, and aged. Different cheese varieties have unique processing techniques and ageing durations, which result in various flavours and textures.

Cheese can be categorized based on its texture and flavour

  • Fresh cheeses are made through the process of acid or rennet coagulation, and they have a high moisture content and delicate flavours. Examples include-Ricotta, Feta, Mozzarella.
  • Soft-ripened cheeses are aged for a few weeks to months and develop a distinctive bloomy rind and rich texture. Example- Brie, Camembert.
  • Semi-firm cheeses start to develop a wider range of flavours, from floral to fruity and even sometimes buttery. These cheeses are firmer than soft cheeses but still not quite firm enough to be categorized as hard cheese. This makes them perfect for slicing and shredding rather than grating or spreading. Some of the most common semi-firm cheeses include Cheddar Cheese, Edam Cheese, and Gouda.
  • Hard cheeses are aged for a long time and have concentrated flavours and firm textures. Example- Parmesan.

Healthier Varieties of Cheese

Some varieties of cheese such as Mozzarella cheese contain bacteria that act as probiotics, including strains of Lactobacillus Casei and Lactobacillus Fermentum. Cottage cheese is much higher in protein than other cheeses and is easier to digest. Ricotta cheeses are low in both fat and sodium content which is good for health. Parmesan cheese is exceptionally high amounts of calcium. Cheddar cheese too is high in calcium, and a good source of Vitamin K2.

Cheese made from Cow Milk might not be good for you!

Cheeses made from cow milk might impact some individuals’ health as they can be made from A2 milk and could have a type of casein protein not good for the health of some individuals. They can pick cheeses made from goats, sheep, or buffaloes. Cheese made from goat milk has capric acid in them that has anti-inflammatory properties.

Slices vs Cubes vs Spreads: Which is healthier?

These selections are mostly made based on the applications. On comparing the nutritive values of these variants of cheese, I found that the cheese slices and cubes have almost similar nutritive values i.e. calories, protein, total fats, and saturated fats. The sodium content in the cubes is a bit on the higher side when compared to the slice. Plain cheese spread has lesser amounts of sodium, protein, fats, and saturated fats than the cubes and slices. 

Cheeses for lactose-intolerant individuals

Some varieties of cheese are low in lactose and may be well tolerated by people who have lactose intolerance. Example- cheddar and mozzarella. Note that creamy cheeses like cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, and cream cheese have higher lactose content.

Cheese & Our Environment

Cheese may be delicious, but its production isn’t climate friendly. One kilo release about 13.5 kilos of CO2 equivalent, comparable to driving about 50 km. Exploring alternatives or mindful consumption can contribute to a healthier planet. Some varieties such as the Feta Cheese and Mozzarella Cheeses are known to have smaller environmental footprints than other cheeses. It’s always recommended to pick locally manufactured cheese to cut carbon emissions.

Check Food Labels!

Always compare the nutritive values of cheese before picking one from the shelf. Pick one that has more amounts of calcium and protein and less amounts of saturated fats and sodium.

Handling Cheese Well for Food Safety!

Cheese may be a culinary treasure but mishandling it can turn it into a potential health hazard. Soft cheeses such as creamy spreads, cottage cheese, and goat cheeses have a high moisture content and should always be refrigerated to prevent microbial growth. In harder cheeses, microbial growth is prevented due to the lower moisture. Always check the label’s use-by date before using it. You will be amazed to know that some unopened refrigerated hard cheeses can last up to 2-4 months, and if opened, they can last about one month. If hard cheeses are stored in the freezer section in a tightly sealed container (cut off from oxygen), it can last up to 7 months. Do not store cheese in plastic wraps for long as it exposes cheese to the chemicals in the packaging, leading to the presence of microplastics in the cheese later. Also, storing cheese in tightly wrapped plastic can lead to moisture collecting on it, and this increases the risk of rotting.

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Navigating Consumer Challenges in India: Implementing Effective Measures

Navigating Consumer Challenges in India: Implementing Effective Measures

Navigating Consumer Challenges in India: Implementing Effective Measures

In the diverse and vibrant landscape of India, consumer-related issues have emerged as a critical facet of daily life. As the nation progresses economically and the consumer market expands, individuals face a range of challenges that demand attention and proactive measures. From product quality concerns to unfair business practices, addressing these issues is vital for ensuring a fair and secure marketplace for all.

                                                                                                                  Pallabi Boruah

                                                                                   

Product Quality and Safety Concerns

One of the primary consumer problems in India revolves around product quality and safety. Instances of substandard goods entering the market pose significant risks to consumers. To tackle this issue, regulatory bodies need to enforce stringent quality control measures, conduct regular inspections, and penalize businesses that compromise on the safety and quality of their products.

Misleading Advertising and Marketing Practices

Consumers often fall victim to misleading advertising and marketing practices, leading to uninformed purchasing decisions. Regulatory authorities must strengthen advertising standards and penalize businesses engaging in deceptive practices. Additionally, fostering consumer education to enhance awareness about discerning marketing tactics can empower individuals to make more informed choices.

E-commerce Challenges

Due to the rapid expansion of e-commerce in India, customers now have to deal with particular issues such misrepresented products, delayed delivery, and return policy disagreements. To protect consumer interests in the digital marketplace, strong laws tailored to the e-commerce industry must be put into place. Transparent communication must also be ensured, and dispute resolution procedures must be streamlined.

Price Gouging and Unfair Trade Practices

Unfair trade practices and price gouging often leave consumers at a disadvantage. Stringent regulations against exploitative pricing, collusion, and unfair business practices are imperative. Consumer protection agencies should actively monitor and penalize entities engaging in such practices to maintain a fair and competitive market environment.

Consumer Education Initiatives

Consumer education plays a pivotal role in addressing and preventing issues. Implementing comprehensive educational initiatives, both at schools and through public awareness campaigns, can equip individuals with the knowledge needed to protect their rights, make informed decisions, and navigate the complexities of the consumer market.

Strengthening Consumer Grievance Redressal Mechanisms

A robust system for addressing consumer grievances is crucial. Strengthening consumer grievance redressal mechanisms, both online and offline, ensures that individuals have accessible channels to report issues and seek resolution. This includes enhancing the efficiency of consumer forums and creating user-friendly online platforms for complaint registration.

Empowering Consumer Protection Laws

The legal framework governing consumer protection must evolve to address contemporary challenges effectively. Regular updates to consumer protection laws, consideration of international best practices, and strict enforcement are vital to create a legal environment that prioritizes consumer welfare.

Conclusion

Addressing consumer problems in India requires a multifaceted approach involving collaboration between government bodies, regulatory authorities, businesses, and consumers themselves. By implementing and reinforcing these measures, India can create a consumer-friendly environment that safeguards individual rights, promotes fair business practices, and fosters a culture of transparency and accountability in the marketplace. As the nation progresses, prioritizing consumer protection is not just an ethical imperative but also a strategic move towards building a robust and sustainable economy.

Navigating AI Influence: Consumer Caution Ahead

Navigating AI Influence: Consumer Caution Ahead

Navigating AI Influence: Consumer Caution Ahead

In the modern digital landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful force influencing consumer decisions. AI algorithms leverage vast data to grasp consumer behaviour and preferences, fuelling personalized recommendations and targeted advertising.

In the realm of online shopping and entertainment, AI serves as a helpful companion, recommending products and movies tailored to our preferences based on our prior browsing and viewing history. It also ensures seamless customer support with chatbots and virtual assistants, providing round-the-clock assistance for queries and issues. Moreover, AI empowers businesses in optimizing pricing strategies and enhancing security measures by detecting potential fraud, ensuring a secure transaction experience.

While AI brings advantages, it also presents potential challenges that consumers and businesses must address cautiously.

  1. Guard Personal Data: Avoid providing excessive personal information to AI platforms and applications to shield it from potential data breaches or unauthorized usage.
  1. Be Wary of Algorithmic Biases: Be cognizant of potential biases ingrained in AI systems, and question the recommendations or decisions made by AI algorithms if they appear to perpetuate prejudice or stereotypes.
  1. Stay Independent and Discerning: Uphold independence and critical thinking when making choices influenced by AI suggestions.
  1. Be Aware of Privacy Policies:  Check the privacy policies of platforms and apps that use AI to make sure they manage your personal information responsibly and follow privacy laws.
  1. Verify AI-Generated Information and Recommendations:Don’t rely solely on AI algorithms for important decisions. Cross-check information and recommendations with other sources and consider different perspectives.

In summary, while artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to improve consumer experiences and decision-making processes, it should be approached with caution by both buyers and businesses.

Rinki Sharma

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Navigating the Web: A Consumer’s defence Against Dark Patterns

Navigating the Web: A Consumer’s defence Against Dark Patterns

Navigating the Web: A Consumer’s defence Against Dark Patterns

Consumers are finding themselves in a wide online landscape in an era of digital convenience. Although there are many advantages of the internet, it is important to stay vigilant against such practices commonly referred to as dark patterns. These subtle design choices alter consumer behaviour, often leading to unintended effects.

                                                                                                                 Rinki Sharma

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has released directives addressing the prevention and oversight of dark patterns. These guidelines target deceptive design practices that manipulate users, compromising their autonomy and decision-making. Applicable to all platforms offering goods or services in India, along with advertisers and sellers, the regulations fall under the jurisdiction of the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), established by the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. 

The guidelines explicitly forbid any individual or platform from employing dark patterns. They enumerate prohibited practices, such as false urgency, basket sneaking, and forced actions. Non-compliance with these guidelines may result in penalties. These measures are designed to safeguard consumer rights and ensure fair and transparent interactions in the marketplace.

Understanding Dark Patterns: These are user interface design tricks that can be used to direct users in taking actions that they possibly would not have taken willingly.

  • False urgency: Displaying “Limited time offer, only 1 item left!” to pressure users into quick purchases.
  • Basket sneaking: Automatically adding accessories to the cart during online shopping without user consent.
  • Confirm shaming: Using prompts like “Are you sure you want to miss out on this amazing deal?” to guilt users into accepting offers.
  • Forced action: Requiring users to provide personal information before allowing them to exit a website.
  • Subscription trap: Offering a free trial that automatically converts into a paid subscription without clear notification.
  • Interface interference: Placing misleading pop-ups or buttons that divert users to unintended pages.
  • Bait and switch: Advertising a product at a low price but substituting it with a higher-priced alternative.
  • Drip pricing: Showing a base price for a product and gradually adding taxes, fees, and shipping costs during the checkout process.
  • Disguised advertising: Incorporating promotional content seamlessly into an article, making it look like genuine information.
  • Nagging: Continuously prompting users with pop-ups to sign up for newsletters or notifications.

Do’s:

  • Take the time to carefully review all information before making any online transactions. It is crucial to be thorough and informed. 
  • Stay vigilant for any potential hidden costs before finalizing a transaction. Transparent pricing information is key to building trust and credibility online. 
  • Be aware of subscription terms, billing cycles, and cancellation policies to avoid any surprises. Understanding these details empowers consumers to make informed decisions.
  • Take control of your privacy settings on online platforms. By limiting data sharing, you can protect your personal information from unnecessary exposure.
  • When making online purchases, opt for well-established and reputable websites. This adds an extra layer of security to your online transactions.

Don’ts:

  • Consumers should resist the urge to rush through transactions. Taking the time to understand agreements and scrutinize details prevents impulsive decisions.
  • Suspicious pop-ups, especially those urging quick actions, should not be ignored. Verifying the legitimacy of pop-ups ensures protection against potential traps.
  • To ensure safety and security, it is important for users to verify the authenticity of email senders before responding to urgent messages. By avoiding blind trust, individuals can protect themselves from falling prey to fraudulent emails. 
  • Reacting hastily to urgency tactics can lead to regrettable decisions. By resisting the pressure to make impulsive choices, consumers can guard themselves against online scams. Protecting personal data starts with being mindful of the information shared online.
  •  Limiting the disclosure of unnecessary details during transactions is crucial in safeguarding sensitive information. 

By staying informed and making wise choices, individuals can empower themselves against online manipulation. Practicing caution and following best practices can equip consumers with the confidence and security needed to navigate the digital landscape. Your Online Safety Matters!

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Portion Smart: Eating Foods, the Right Way

Portion Smart: Eating Foods, the Right Way

Portion Smart: Eating Foods, the Right Way

Imagine a bag of chips. The label might list a serving size as 28 grams, but let’s be honest, who stops at just that? That’s where portion size comes in. It’s the amount of food you choose to eat, which can be more or less than a serving size. Think of a serving size as a standardized measurement, while your portion size is a personalized decision. Packaged foods – so handy, so tempting! They help us grab-and-go, but their sneaky serving sizes and clever marketing can trick us into eating more than we need. That’s where mindful eating comes in – paying attention to our hunger and munching mindfully. In this article, we talk about the influence of food portions.

Richa Pande

Factors like gender, age, and hunger impact how much we eat, but our minds also play tricks on us. Our plates are more than just containers; they’re influenced by a mix of psychology and biology. Visual cues, plate size, and optical illusions can make us think a plate is emptier than it is. Emotions, social pressure, and marketing further affect our food and portion choices.

Here are some handy ways to measure your portion sizes:

  • Your hand: Your palm can be a rough guide for a serving.
  • Measuring cups: Invest in a set of measuring cups for accurate portion control of grains, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Food labels: Pay attention to serving sizes listed on food labels. They might not be your ideal portion, but they’re a good starting point.
  • Food measuring scales: For ultimate precision, especially with meats and cheeses, consider using a food measuring scale. These handy tools take the guesswork out of portion control and ensure you’re consuming the exact amount you need.

My Plate Guide to Decoding Portion Sizes for Indians

My Plate, designed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), offers recommended food guidelines and portion sizes tailored to the unique dietary requirements and cultural nuances of India. Familiarizing oneself with these food groups can contribute make mindful food choices. The plate’s suggested proportions guarantee sufficient intake of various micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, as well as bioactive compounds, functional foods, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients.

 

  • Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants, which are beneficial for overall health. Opt for whole fruits over juices and have green leafy vegetables. You should be having foods from this food group the most. It’s recommended to have 400 grams of vegetables (out of these, 100g of green leafy vegetables), and 100 grams of fruits daily.
  • Grains & millets: Grains and Millets are rich in carbohydrates and are a significant source of energy, as well as essential nutrients such as fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Some millets also have more protein than regular cereals. It’s recommended to have 250 grams of food items from this group every day, for example 8 chapatis every day or katoris of red rice or millets.
  • Pulses, Eggs, & Flesh Products: This food group comprising pulses, eggs, and flesh foods is a crucial component of a balanced and nutritious diet, providing essential protein and a range of vital nutrients. Pulses, including lentils, chickpeas, beans, and peas, offer plant-based protein, fibre, and various vitamins and minerals. Eggs, being nutrient-dense, contribute high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and important nutrients like vitamin B12 and choline. Flesh foods, such as meat, poultry, and fish, are rich in complete proteins, iron, zinc, and other essential nutrients. As per the ICMR guidelines, incorporating approximately 85 grams these sources daily is recommended.
  • Fats & Oils: This food group consists of visible fats that can be added to the diet to provide a source of concentrated energy and essential fatty acids. This category includes fats from both animal and plant sources, such as butter, cooking oils like olive oil, canola oil, etc., margarine, and ghee. These fats serve as flavour enhancers, contribute to the texture of foods, and play a crucial role in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). It’s recommended to take 27 g of visible fats daily. A teaspoon= 5 ml of oil or melted butter/ melted ghee.
  • Dairy Products: Dairy products contain many essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin B, protein, and other vitamins and minerals. Common dairy products include milk, buttermilk, cheese, paneer, and curd. The recommended daily intake for the dairy food group is approximately 300 ml / grams.
Food groups Foods to be consumed raw weight (g/day) % of Energy from each food group/ day Total Energy from each food group/ day (Kcal) Total protein from each food group/ day (g) Total Fat from each food group/ day (g) Total Carbs from each food group/ day (g)
Cereals (incl. Nutri cereals) 250 42 843 25 5 172
Pulses* 85 14 274 20 3 42
Milk/ Curd (ml) 300 11 216 10 13 16
Vegetables* green leafy vegetable (GLV) 400 9 174 10 2 28
Fruits 100 3 56 1 1 11
Nuts & Seeds 35 9 181 6 15 6
Fats & Oils 27 12 243 27
Total 1200 2000 15% of Total Energy Intake 30 % of Total Energy Intake

Table: Food  Groups & Recommended Portions, My Plate for the Day, ICMR NIN

  • Nuts and Seeds: They are rich in healthy fats, protein, fibre, and many essential nutrients such as vitamins, and minerals. The recommended daily intake for the nuts and seeds food group is approximately 35 grams.

Mastering Portion Control for Smarter Snacking

Packaged foods offer undeniable convenience, but going through the recommended serving size is important before picking the portion of that food product. The “serving size” listed on labels is the recommended portion you should be having. Consider it a starting point, like a map rather than a definitive destination. Your ideal portion, the one that truly nourishes and satiates, will depend on your unique needs and circumstances. While packaged options are tempting, preparing meals at home offers greater control over portion sizes. Opt for smaller plates and bowls. This visual trick can trick your brain into feeling satisfied with smaller portions, promoting both physical and mental well-being. Avoid distractions while eating. Put down your phone, turn off the TV, and focus on the sensory experience of savouring each bite. This helps you appreciate the taste, texture, and aroma of your food, preventing mindless overconsumption. Don’t skip meals in the hopes of “saving calories” for later snacks. Instead, fuel your body consistently with balanced meals and mindful snacks throughout the day. This avoids hunger pangs that can lead to impulsive overeating.

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