Ask Dr. Weil
Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty (heart specialist) from Narayana Hrudayalaya, Bangalore discusses matters of the heart for themedguru readers.
Q -1: What are the rules of thumb for a layman to take care of his heart?
Dr. Shetty 1. Diet - Less of carbohydrate, more of protein, less oil.
2. Exercise - Half an hour's walk, at least five days a week; avoid lifts and avoid sitting for a longtime.
3. Quit smoking.
4. Control weight.
5. Control blood pressure and sugar.
Reader’s Question: I have been suffering from itchy skin rashes for some time now. Despite taking care of hygiene, the problem does not subside. What precautions should I use?
Themedguru: You seem to be suffering from a condition called Dermatitis or eczema . There are many kinds of this condition and you will have to visit a doctor for a specific diagnosis and medication. It may be acute eczema or chronic eczema.
Reader's Question: After recently having a baby through C-section, I have gained weight around my stomach. I have been prohibited to exercise for at least three weeks. In the meantime, can I wear belly wraps? Do they work?
Themedguru: Post delivery, many women feel that belly wraps help them get back into their pre-pregnancy shape. While I do not recommend belly wraps as a substitute for diet and exercise, they may help to an extent.
Some say they reduce swelling of the uterus and support the legs and back. However, I stress upon the importance of diet and exercise as the only sure-shot ways of getting back in shape.
Question: After episodes like avian flu and swine flu, I wonder if it is safe for pregnant women to have fish. I conceived recently and used to eat fish fairly often earlier. Can I continue? If so, are there any precautions that I should take?
Themedguru: Fish and shellfish are rich in protein and many other essential nutrients, including omega 3 fatty acids. Besides, fish is also low in saturated fat. These qualities make fish one of the ideal foods for pregnant women.
Q: I recently read an article that warns that soy milk is a rip-off and contains a lot of bad stuff. It advises making your own soy milk using soy beans, water and a soy milk machine. Is commercially available soy milk unsafe? If so, what do you recommend?
A: I've seen many articles warning that soy foods in general, including soy milk, aren't healthy and contain hidden substances that are dangerous. Critics of soy allege that it is bad for the thyroid, can cause cancer, Alzheimer's disease and mineral deficiencies.
Q: What's this I hear about a new requirement that almonds must be pasteurized and that the process involves the use of a carcinogen?
A: Yes, there is a new government requirement that almonds be pasteurized, but not all almonds must be treated with the controversial chemical most commonly used in the process.
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