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In Indian kitchens, aged basmati rice is prized for its aroma, fluffy texture and perceived health benefits. Is it healthier than freshly milled basmati rice? What makes aged basmati rice different? The key difference is the ageing process. Dt Kalra explains that as basmati rice ages its starch structure and moisture content changes. This results in grains that become less sticky and more separated after cooking, improving both texture and digestion. Consult your doctor before beginning any new routine. Does ageing affect its nutrition? Contrary to popular belief, ageing does not significantly increase the nutritional value. Dt Kalra says that the ageing process doesn’t alter rice’s core nutrients in a major way. It is the way the body processes the rice that changes, particularly due to the reduced moisture and restructured starsch. These changes can have subtle metabolic benefits, especially when it comes to how the body digests carbohydrates. Dt Kalra notes that aged basmati rice is easier to digest than freshly milled. It has a lower glycaemic indices, which may mean that it causes a slower rise in the blood sugar levels. It’s a good option for those who want to control their blood sugar levels or have sensitive digestion. However, it doesn’t mean they can eat it in large quantities. Dt Kalra says that aged basmati rice is still a refined carbohydrates. “Portion Control is Essential, Especially for People with Diabetes, as Excess intake can Raise Blood Glucose Levels.” She also highlights a common nutritional gap: “If you diet relies on too much polished rice, without enough whole grains and vegetables, it can impact on overall nutritional balance.” Disclaimer: This article was based on public domain information and/or experts we spoke to. Consult your doctor before beginning any new routine.

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Kumail Nanjiani couldn’t agree more with the saying ‘early bed, early rise’. In a recent Instagram posting, the actor and comedian revealed that “if left to my own devices I am in bed before 9 pm”. “I wake up at 6.30 pm, and it gives me great joy.” I love it, because I feel like my life is divided into two parts – my life with Emily, and my work. He shared this in the video. He added that “if I go to bed early, I have a better relationship with Emily, because we spend time together, and wake up at the same times.” I feel more present at work”.DISCLAIMER : This article is based upon information that was obtained from the public domain or experts we spoke with. Consult your doctor before beginning any new routine. Dr Prashant Makhija is a consultant neurologist at Wockhardt hospitals in Mumbai Central. He said that most adults benefit from 7 to 8 hours each night of quality sleep. It’s not only about the number of sleep hours, but also consistency and depth. He added that irregular sleep schedules and broken sleep are just as harmful as a lack of sleep. According to Dr Makhija exposure to screens near bedtime disrupts the production of melatonin, the hormone which regulates sleep. He suggested that a wind-down ritual, such as reading, light stretching or simply disconnecting devices, can help signal the brain that its time to rest. “These small habits can greatly increase sleep quality over time.” Dr Makhija reiterated. Dr Makhija said that sleep should not be a negotiable.
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Dr Sunil Kumar K of Aster CMI Hospital in Bangalore, who is a Lead Consultant in Interventional Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine said that sleep deprivation affects almost every system in the human body. “When a person consistently falls asleep less than recommended, the brain does not have enough time to remove waste, which can affect memory and concentration and affect thinking ability. This can increase the risk for conditions like dementia later in life.” he added. The body’s hormonal equilibrium can also be disturbed, leading to increased stress hormones like cortisol. A day in the life of Samantha Ruth Prabhu: ‘9.30 pm is meditation; hit the bed at 10’According to Dr Kumar, a sleep deprived person is more likely to fall sick often or take longer to recover from infections. Over time it can also increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke, because the heart does not get enough rest and recovery.Story continues below this ad”While metabolism may slow down or become irregular, leading to weight gain or difficulty maintaining a healthy weight, and skin health can also be affected, as less sleep reduces collagen repair, causing early ageing signs like wrinkles and dullness, and long-term sleep loss can also affect emotional health, increasing the chances of depression and mood swings, and it may reduce overall energy levels and physical performance.DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Consult your doctor before beginning any new routine.

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Gen Z often go through a rigorous process before committing to their partners. From swiping right to situationship and hard launching on the Internet, they often go through a rigorous process. Gen Z is known for their rigorous dating process, which includes everything from swiping to situationships to hard-launching on the Internet. In many cases, however, the pet might not be the owner’s. It could be the pet of a friend, a street animal, or a cafe cat. According to a survey conducted by Happn dating app, 19% of Indian singles had pets in their dating profiles, or were considering doing so. The data also suggests that pets influence how people date offline. While 33 percent still prefer pet-free dates at coffee shops, 25 percent choose dog walks or low-pressure strolls in public places like Delhi’s Lodhi Gardens and Chennai’s Marina Beach. Experts have commented on the trend and shed light on why people exaggerate some traits on dating sites. “They want their chances of being like,” Dr Murali Krishna said, Visiting Consultant Psychiatry & Counselling Services at Aster RV Hospital in Bangalore. “Liking animals signals emotional intelligence and ability to form attachments. She said that it subconsciously reassures the person of their ability to care and commit, making them more attractive as a long-term companion. Story continues below this adAccording Dr Krishna, a pet or a love for animals exudes warmth and fosters trust. Ghosting is bad, but ‘ghostlighting’ is worse: Early warning signs of this toxic dating trend, according to an expertHowever, while petfishing may help secure matches, Dr Krishna warned that it can create cracks in trust early on. “Petfishing” is the act of pretending to own or love pets in order to appear more attractive. It can damage trust in early stages of relationships. He noted that one partner may discover the deception of the other, which can lead to doubts regarding their character and the possibility of hidden lies. For singles navigating modern dating, Dr Manchanda advised understanding a person’s personality beyond their dating profile, and avoiding emotional investments based on online dating profiles in the early stages. Ask open-ended, observant questions and let the relationship develop naturally. “Authenticity cannot be rushed and patience is the key to avoid disappointment,” she said.

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Even stepping outside in May can be exhausting when the heat wave begins to grip Delhi. The idea of a quick getaway to the hills becomes less of a luxury, and more of a necessity. You don’t need to travel far. The best places to visit are just a few hours away from Delhi, where the cooler air, greenery, and slower pace of life offer relief from the heat. MussoorieMussoorie, also known as the “Queen of the Hills,” is a popular summer getaway near Delhi. It offers sweeping views of the Doon Valley and lively streets. In May, the weather is refreshing, making outdoor walks enjoyable again. NainitalNainital, a lakeside town surrounded by hills and forested areas, offers a perfect combination of calm waters and cool mountain breezes. It is especially popular for boating and ropeway rides. The scenic views are pleasant even in peak summer. Best places to visit include: Naini Lake. Snow View Point. Naina Devi Temple. Tiffin Top. ShimlaShimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and offers colonial charm, pine-covered hills, and bustling markets. The ultimate budget guide to Bir Billing4. LansdowneLansdowne offers a quieter alternative to travellers who prefer peace and quiet over crowds. This small cantonment is known for its clean, oak-forested air and slow pace of living–ideal to take a break from the city heat. Best places to visit: Bhulla Tal Lake. Tip-in-Top Viewpoint. War Memorial. St. Mary’s Church. DharamshalaDharamshala sits in the lap of the Dhauladhar range and offers a refreshing mix of mountain views, Tibetan culture, and cool breezes. McLeod Ganj is the upper region of the city, and is a favourite among travellers who are looking for nature and tranquility.
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Why Janhvi is a fan of the Wunda Chair. (Source: Instagram/@janhvikapoor)Janhvi Kapoor’s Pilates routine has just got an upgrade. The Param Sundari star was recently seen working out her glutes and core in a low-impact but high-intensity way. Palash Grover of Sanctum-House of Wellness shared that in trainer Namrata purohit’s most recent Instagram post, Janhvi is seen demonstrating a high level of functional mechanics. What is Stability Chair step up? According to Grover, Stability Chair is the “most challenging” piece of equipment available in Pilates. The chair has a pedal that is attached to springs, unlike a stationary bench. In this movement, the practitioner puts one foot on the seat, and the other on pedal. You cannot simply lift your bottom foot to rise. Instead, you must use the strength in the lead leg while controlling the spring-loaded pedal as it rises. He said that Janhvi was performing the exercise without using handles to support her, which elevated the exercise from a leg move to a whole-body stabilisation challenge. Consult your fitness professional before beginning any exercise routine. It provides muscle fatigue similar in intensity to heavy weightlifting, but without impacting the joints. (Source: Instagram/@namratapurohit)Looking at the benefitsGrover also shared the health benefits of adding this exercise to your regular routine:1. Deep quad and glute sculpting – Due to the mechanical disadvantage caused by the chair’s high height and narrow surface, this exercise forces much more muscle fibre recruitment than a standard lunge. It is one of most effective ways to build power and definition in the lower body. Correcting postural imbalances. This is a unilateral movement. Most of us have one dominant side which overcompensates when we squat or walk. The Stability Chair exposes cheating. The Stability Chair forces the weaker leg, which is crucial for joint health over the long term and preventing back pain from scoliosis, to do all the work. To remain upright without holding the bar, the body must engage both the Transverse Abdominis and Multifidus muscles along the spine. Janhvi Kapoor’s Pilates routine is inspiring; see pics4. Injury prevention and improved proprioception. By training the body to stand on an unstable surface, such as the pedal, you improve your proprioception – the brain’s ability communicate with the muscles in order to remain balanced. This is why actors and athletes use this move. It protects the knees and the ankles from injury, preparing the body for the unpredictable daily movements or high-intensity sequences. This Pilates variation provides a similar burn and fatigue to heavy weightlifting, but without any impact on the joints. It increases bone density and muscle endurance while being kind to knee cartilage. Grover concluded that Janhvi’s form, particularly her hip alignment and control as the pedal rises is a testament of the discipline needed to master your own body weight. Consult your fitness professional before beginning any exercise routine.