Health Sector

Ayurveda News

Reforms in Ayush Sector to Boost Growth : Sarbananda Sonowal

Union Minister of Ayush Shri Sarbananda Sonowal laid emphasis on how Ayush can play an important role in realizing the dream of ‘New India’ by providing holistic healthcare and medical care for its citizens. Minister was addressing the gathering at 6th CII Ayush Conclave 2022 in New Delhi. In his inaugural address Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, "Ayush market has reached $18 billion from meager $3 billion under guidance and visionary leadership of our Prime Minister.” He added that at present we are witnessing a highly receptive environment where the value of Ayush systems in healthcare is widely being recognized. Many reforms in research strategies, nature of practice and education are underway, which will facilitate growth in this sector. The new generation of our country should study and deeply about the Ayush systems. “ Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush in his keynote address said, "Ministry of Ayush in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) has established a lot of benchmarks for Ayush system. These benchmarks will be beneficial for all the stakeholders, particularly industry related to Ayush systems" Shri Pramod Kumar Pathak, Special Secretary Ministry of Ayush addressed the plenary session on regulatory roadmap for ease of doing business. In his address he said that the first important aspect of ease of doing business is consultation and that is happening robustly at Ministry of Ayush. Further, for promoting scientific approach, the ministry is working with the Departments of Science and Biotechnology and the inputs are effectively included in our roadmap. 6th CII Ayush Conclave 2022 was organized by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) with the support of Ministry of Ayush. Key stakeholders of Ayush system discussed topics like regulatory roadmap, Research and development in Ayush sector, Branding, promotion and marketing of Ayush products. Read More► Academic Chair in Ayurvedic Science at Western Sydney University
Health News

Busting 5 Myths About Diabetes

Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar busts some popular myths about diabetes, as she shares the right thing to do in her audiobook 'Eating in the Age of Dieting', available on Audible. Myth 1: Avoid Bananas, But Apple is Okay! "All fruits contain natural sugars, mostly fructose, which has a low glycaemic index," says Rujuta in her audiobook on Audible. Bursting this common myth among people, she says,"Banana is even approved by the American Diabetes Association but shunned by doctors and dietitians in the country of its origin. Banana is not just safe but recommended for people with diabetes as it is mineral-rich and helps prevent high BP too." Myth 2: Avoid Sugar in Chai/Coffee, But Biscuits Like Marie and Digestive Are Okay "That teaspoon or even two of sugar in your chai is much better than the low-grade sugar, trans-fat, and emulsifier-rich biscuit/cracker," says Rujuta. Instead, she suggests, "If you must beat diabetes, then you must see that the real risk comes from the unregulated intake of food and misinformation about what is good or bad for you. So have the chai with sugar but limit it to a max of two to three cups a day, and don't touch biscuits and the likes." Myth 3: Ghee Specifically and Fat in General, Must Be Avoided Nothing could be further away from the truth. "Ghee and coconut both have the essential fatty acids that further support insulin, protect the heart, and help maintain the intestinal mucosa. So if you are diabetic, the one thing that you can't afford to miss out on is fat, and more specifically, ghee. Eat loads of it!" says Rujuta in her audiobook on Audible. Myth 4: Walking is The Best Exercise. The Cardio is Good While most of us believe walking daily is enough, Rujuta recommends "Lift weights and join a gym. Train your big muscles and develop strength in them, as loss of strength from the body is directly linked to insulin resistance and the incidence of diabetes. If you are diabetic, gymming is the best exercise for you." Myth 5: Once You Are Diabetic, You Stay Diabetic "Not true! It's easy to regulate blood sugars and support insulin function through the right approach to diet, exercise, and lifestyle" says Rujuta Diwekar in her audiobook on Audible. Forever an advocate for local and traditional food, she adds,"Eating traditional, local and seasonal is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to stay healthy. We have been systematically taken away from our native eating habits and introduced to new ones to live healthier lives. But in the bargain, we have gotten fatter, sicker, and diabetic." PS: It's never too late to change though. Start small, start with the basics: work out, eat the way your grandmom taught you to and regulate your bedtime. Your stress and sugar both will climb down and your confidence will climb up. (Agency) Read More► A Guide to Protect Your Skin From Pollution
Herbs and Fruits

शिलाजीत के फायदे और नुकसान

शिलाजीत की जानकारी - Shilajit Information in Hindi  शिलाजीत शब्द संस्कृत के 'शिलाजतु' शब्द से बना है। शिला का अर्थ चट्टान और जतु का मतलब चिपचिपा तत्व होता है। यह काले भूरे रंग का पाया जाता है। इसके अलावा यह पीले - भूरे रंग में भी पाया जाता है। पारंपरिक औषधि के रूप में प्राचीन समय से शिलाजीत का प्रयोग किया जाता रहा है। इसमें लोहा,जिंक,सीसा,तांबा,रजत समेत 80 से भी ज्यादा खनिज होते हैं।  यह बलवर्धक और पुष्टिकारक होता है और इसलिए शक्ति, सामर्थ्य और शरीर की ऊर्जा बढ़ाने के लिए उपयोग किया जाता है। यौन शक्ति बढ़ाने के लिए भी इसे उपयोगी माना जाता है। पुरुष इंफर्टिलिटी (बांझपन) को ठीक करने के लिए भी इसके सेवन की सलाह दी जाती है। यही वजह है कि इसे दुर्बलतानाशक भी कहा गया है। शरीर के कायाकल्प में भी यह उपयोगी सिद्ध हो सकता है। आयुर्वेद में शिलाजीत को लघु 'योगवाह' औषधि माना गया है जो अन्य औषधियों की योग वाहिता में वृद्धि करती है। इसका प्रयोग शरीर के टॉक्सिन को बाहर निकालने में भी किया जाता है। यह रोग प्रतिरोधक क्षमता को भी मजबूत बनाता है।  शिलाजीत के फायदे - Shilajit benefits in Hindi  अल्जाइमर की बीमारी - आयुर्वेद में अल्जाइमर की बीमारी को वात दोष के रूप में देखा जाता है। शिलाजीत का नियमित सेवन वात दोष को ठीक करता है। यह तंत्रिका तंत्र की कमजोरी को दूर करके कार्यप्रणाली को सुधारती है। यादाश्त में सुधार होता है।  श्वसन मार्ग का संक्रमण - श्वसन मार्ग के संक्रमण को दूर करने में भी शिलाजीत उपयोगी सिद्ध होता है। आयुर्वेद में श्वसन मार्ग के संक्रमण का प्रमुख कारण शरीर में उत्पन्न वात और कफ को माना गया है। शिलाजीत वात और कफ का शमन करती है।  शिलाजीत से संबंधित प्रश्न - Shilajit FAQ's in Hindi  1. क्या शिलाजीत को अश्वगंधा के साथ लिया जा सकता है?  शिलाजीत और अश्वगंधा को एक साथ लेने से पहले आयुर्वेद चिकित्सक की सलाह जरूर लेनी चाहिए। दरअसल दोनों में ही बल्य प्रदान करने वाली सामग्रियाँ है। अतः दोनों के एक साथ उपयोग करने पर शरीर पर नकरात्मक संदर्भ में अधिक दवाब पड़ सकता है। हालांकि यह व्यक्ति-व्यक्ति की शारीरिक संरचना पर निर्भर करता है।  2. क्या महिलाएं शिलाजीत गोल्ड कैप्सूल ले सकती हैं? हां, थकान और सुस्ती से रहित स्वस्थ शरीर बनाए रखने के लिए महिलाएं शिलाजीत गोल्ड का सेवन कर सकती हैं। यह अपने वात-संतुलन गुणों के कारण जोड़ों के दर्द को कम करने में मदद करता है।  3. क्या शिलाजीत का सेवन गर्मियों में कर सकते हैं? हां, इसे गर्मियों सहित अधिकांश मौसमों में लिया जा सकता है। हालांकि, शिलाजीत का उपयोग करने के बाद किसी भी तरह की समस्या होने पर डॉक्टर से सलाह लेनी चाहिए। 4 . पुरुषों के लिए शिलाजीत गोल्ड के क्या फायदे हैं? शिलाजीत में मौजूद बल्या (ताकत प्रदान करने वाले) और रसायन (कायाकल्प करने वाले) गुण ऊर्जा के स्तर और कामेच्छा में सुधार करने में मदद करते हैं। शिलाजीत का नियमित उपयोग पुरुषों के लिए फायदेमंद हो सकता है क्योंकि यह प्रजनन संबंधी समस्याओं के जोखिम को कम करता है। शिलाजीत जैविक रूप से सक्रिय पदार्थ-डी-बेंजो-अल्फा-पायरोन (डीबीपी) से युक्त है, जो शुक्राणुओं की संख्या को बढ़ाता है। शोध बताते हैं कि शिलाजीत के सेवन से पुरुषों में शुक्राणु की गतिशीलता और टेस्टोस्टेरोन के स्तर में सुधार होता है। 6. क्या शिलाजीत उम्र बढ़ने की प्रक्रिया को धीमा कर सकती है? हां, शिलाजीत उम्र बढ़ने के संकेतों, जैसे महीन रेखाओं और झुर्रियों को कम करके उम्र बढ़ने की प्रक्रिया को तकनीकी रूप से धीमा कर सकता है। आयुर्वेद इसे एक बढ़े हुए वात का कारण बताता है जिससे कोशिकाओं का तेजी से अध: पतन होता है। शिलाजीत रसायन (कायाकल्प) और बल्या (ताकत) गुणों से भरपूर है, जो कोशिकाओं के अध: पतन को धीमा कर देता है, प्रभावी रूप से उम्र बढ़ने को धीमा कर देता है। 7. क्या शिलाजीत सुरक्षित है? हां, वास्तव में, शिलाजीत की सुरक्षा उन लोगों में अच्छी तरह से प्रलेखित है, जिन्हें कोई अत्यधिक स्वास्थ्य जटिलता नहीं है। यह अभी तक एक बहुत ही शक्तिशाली एजेंट है, अगर अनुशंसित मात्रा में लिया जाए तो यह बहुत सुरक्षित है। हालांकि, शिलाजीत को उपयोग करने से पहले ठीक से परिष्कृत और संसाधित किया जाना चाहिए क्योंकि इसमें भारी धातुएं और मुक्त कण होते हैं जो आपके अग्न्याशय को बाधित कर सकते हैं। यह ध्यान दिया जाना चाहिए कि शिलाजीत का उपयोग अक्सर कुछ अन्य आयुर्वेदिक जड़ी बूटियों के साथ किया जाता है लेकिन एक ही समय में अन्य औषधीय दवाओं का उपयोग करते समय इसका उपयोग करने से पहले चिकित्सक से परामर्श करना सुनिश्चित करें। 8. क्या शिलाजीत का उपयोग एनीमिया के इलाज के लिए किया जा सकता है? जी हां, शिलाजीत एनीमिया के इलाज में उपयोगी हो सकता है। शरीर में आयरन की कमी से आरबीसी (लाल रक्त कोशिका) की संख्या कम हो जाती है। शिलाजीत में मौजूद फुल्विक एसिड आयरन के कुशल अवशोषण में मदद करता है, जिससे यह स्वस्थ रक्त का उत्पादन करने के लिए तिल्ली को उपलब्ध होता है। यह एनीमिया के लक्षणों को काफी हद तक कम करने में मदद करता है। 9. क्या शिलाजीत से कब्ज हो सकता है? नहीं, शिलाजीत कब्ज का कारण नहीं बनता है क्योंकि इसमें कई एंटीऑक्सिडेंट और शक्तिशाली कारक होते हैं जो शरीर में मौजूद हानिकारक रसायनों को बेअसर और खत्म कर देते हैं। यह शरीर से विषाक्त पदार्थों को बाहर निकालने में मदद करता है, इसलिए; यह एक दुर्लभ संभावना है कि शिलाजीत कब्ज पैदा कर सकता है। हालाँकि, पूरक ब्रांड से ब्रांड में भिन्न होते हैं, और यदि आपको कोई बड़ा दुष्प्रभाव महसूस होता है, तो डॉक्टर से परामर्श करने पर विचार करें। 10. क्या शिलाजीत पुरुषों में यौन इच्छा को प्रभावित करती है? शोध से पता चला है कि शिलाजीत शरीर में टेस्टोस्टेरोन के स्तर को बढ़ाता है। यह एक कायाकल्प है और टेस्टोस्टेरोन के स्तर में वृद्धि के कारण शुक्राणुओं की संख्या और यौन आग्रह को बढ़ाकर यौन इच्छा को बढ़ाता है।
Health News

The Power of Positive Relationships on Mental Health

There are never any simple solutions or answers to mental health challenges, this is especially true for suicide. Those who contemplate ending their lives are usually at an emotionally draining and isolating precipice of a mental health crisis, they see no way out of. This is why, one of the most important aspects of our lives is to develop positive relationships; having fulfilling and meaningful relationships with our friends and family, people who we love and respect, can help create meaning in our lives and make for an important support system. If you know someone who is struggling with their mental health, here are some ways to help them deal with their crisis and be that one person in their lives who can truly help make a difference shared by Dilshad Khurana, Psychologist, Head Mpower, Helpline. Be Empathetic: Empathy is the basis of most human relationships, and it is an even more crucial component when dealing with someone who is going through a mental health crisis. The key to developing meaningful relationships is to really listen to what someone has to say rather than just hearing what they have to say. For instance, while speaking with someone who is going through a tough time with regard to their mental health, it is important that you make eye contact with them during the conversation and be fully present in the moment. Avoid interrupting them or deviating from conversation to a frivolous topic. Try to build a deeper conversation with them and listen to them intently. This can help the opposite person feel more seen and heard, and will eventually help them to open up to you about their mental health struggles. Be aware of the other person's perspective: Always keep the other person's perspective in mind - this is a seemingly simple yet difficult piece of advice to follow. When we take the time to see things from the other person's point of view, it helps us to understand them better and make for a more meaningful relationship. After all, everyone wants to feel like their experiences and opinions are valued and respected, and for those struggling with their mental health, this is even more important. Hence, try to look at things from the other person's perspective the next time you are in a conversation, you may be surprised by what you discover and even help them see beyond their current situation. Open Communication: Communication is one of the first things we learn in life - whether it is learning how to speak or using actions and gestures to convey our feelings, it is one of the most primal aspects of human life. However, as we grow older, communicating meaningfully gets harder, and having tough conversations about how we truly feel gets rarer. But these conversations are vital for those who are coping with issues such as depression or anxiety. And at times, having open and honest conversations can mean the difference between life and death. Thus, communicating openly and honestly with those dealing with mental health struggles is a crucial aspect of developing healthy and positive relationships. Relationship with Oneself: While external relationships play an important role in our lives, the most significant relationship we have is the one with ourselves. Building our self-esteem and self-worth is one of the most important things we can do for ourselves and it is a crucial aspect of mental health. If we want to cultivate a positive relationship with ourselves, we need to be kind and forgiving, accept our flaws, and work on accepting our bodies and minds the way they are - this is probably the most important thing we can do for our mental health. Seek Help: Life is not easy when we are under a lot of pressure. Sometimes, we may feel like we aren't good enough and that everything is going wrong. Such feelings can easily precipitate into thoughts of self-harm. However, it is important to know that there is a way out of such a vicious cycle, and trained professionals such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists can help immensely. Through their years of experience and study, therapists are trained to help people who are dealing with mental health crises. For instance, someone who is going through a breakup after a long-term relationship or a student who has failed their exam - for them, these failures might seem monumental and something that they cannot get past. However, a trained psychologist can help them to realize that failures in exams, careers, or relationships aren't permanent. Thus, seeking help is perhaps the most important tool in the fight against suicide and mental health problems. Additionally, society plays a significant role in promoting mental health awareness. Through public awareness initiatives such as street plays like the one recently conducted by Whistling Woods International at Churchgate station on World Suicide Prevention Day, or street art, people can help reduce the stigma associated with discussing mental health openly. Thus, having positive personal relationships and being part of a society that is non-judgemental about mental health issues are some of the most important factors that can help to prevent suicide. If you think somebody you know might be struggling, don't hesitate to seek help. Together, we can help prevent suicides by building more positive relationships in our communities and talking about mental health more openly. For professional support, you can reach out to the Suicide prevention helpline. Read More► 6 Mental Health Tips For Indian Millennials That Actually Work
Health News

6 Mental Health Tips For Indian Millennials That Actually Work

Indian millennials frequently experience stress and anxiety since they belong to a generation that is constantly rushing to finish their tasks and accomplish their objectives. Concentration issues, tiredness, alterations in sleep and food patterns, and feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness are among the common issues. Here's a look at 6 practical suggestions for the mental wellness of Indian millennials. Disconnect From Electronics and Social Media We must do the same when spending time with family and friends as we do when attending meetings at business by keeping our phones on silent mode. Constant usage of social media can result in negative emotions like melancholy, loneliness, jealousy, anxiety, and general life discontent. A digital detox entails cutting off from technology and social media. It is a time to unwind, partake in enjoyable pursuits, or spend time with loved ones. You can live in the now and engage in meaningful conversations with people by taking a social media sabbatical. By reducing distractions, promoting self-reflection, and even enhancing sleep, taking a break from technology provides you an opportunity to enjoy life. Be Honest With Yourself Honesty improves mental health. Before you can improve the situation, you must admit there's a problem. Others are easier to fool, but you must always be honest with yourself and observant of your feelings. Identify your ideal and actual self. Before making tangible, doable adjustments, you must understand where your ideal self comes from. It's as important to believe in one self as it is, to be honest with oneself because confidence can do so much. Reflect and Adapt Although it may appear that you have no control over the stress at work and at home, there are steps you can take to alleviate the strain and reclaim control. Effective stress management enables you to break stress's grasp on your life, allowing you to become happier, healthier, and more productive. The ultimate objective is a balanced existence that includes time for work, relationships, relaxation, and enjoyment, as well as the fortitude to withstand pressure and face obstacles head-on. We can handle every new or different situation by reflecting on our reactions to stress or other stimuli. While having a perfect work-life balance is a myth, it's important to try new things and figure out what works best by adopting the most effective stress-management techniques. You are Precious If you understand that every day is a gift, then you are living life seriously and know that you are precious. We occasionally lose sight of how fleeting life is and how priceless we are because of how busy we are. Only you know the difficulties you've faced, and your heart is aware of the amount of bravery you've displayed in each situation. Since you deserve to be loved and accepted, accept the precious you. In addition to preventing anxiety and depression, practicing self-love and knowing that you are precious is linked to an increase in pleasure, greater life satisfaction, and greater resiliency. Do Not Shy Away from Help It takes courage but is extremely helpful to ask for mental health treatment. We must comprehend the significance of instilling good help-seeking behaviour to create a more compassionate and fulfilling society. This is so because we must erase the stigma around mental health. Our general well-being and happiness can be significantly enhanced by seeking treatment, as well as our personal and professional lives. By asking for assistance, one can avoid going through difficult times alone, acquire new coping mechanisms, develop relationships, and enhance your quality of life. Break Lagalo Our way of life has taken on the character of the Rajdhani Express, and there is a great deal of pressure to outdo everyone. While maintaining a high level of performance is good, it's also crucial to slow down. You are aware of what a Porsche with no breaks is capable of. So, unwind and take a break. Take that one day off to rest, and don't feel bad about it. Shake a leg during the break because dancing and grooving might result in many changes. According to studies, moving causes the production of endorphins, or "happy hormones," so if your mind is going round in circles, try shaking your leg. Also, give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done since you are the only one who should be aware of and grateful for your efforts. One must seek professional help for counselling if they are still experiencing stress, demotivation, depression, procrastination, or the inability to act decisively at work, which hinders growth at the workplace. They can call or chat on the Mpower Let's talk 1 on 1 free multilingual 24x7 free helpline number 1800-120-820050. (Dr. Neerja Birla, Founder & Chairperson, MPower, an initiative of Aditya Birla Education Trust) Read More► Facts & Myths About Arthritis
Health News

Simple Swaps to Keep Your

Among the many benefits of maintaining heart health include the ability to live a long life, relieve symptoms of depression, and reduce the chance of dementia. According to a proverb, "With a healthy heart, the beat carries on." The path to a healthy heart is broken down by Luke Coutinho, Holistic Nutrition and Lifestyle - Integrative and Lifestyle Medicine, Founder of You Care. Tips to Keep Your Heart Healthy Emotional Health: Today emotional health is a no.1 priority for better heart health. Negative emotions and thoughts stimulate the flight and fight response which results in the production of cortisol. Elevated levels of cortisol are known to also elevate blood pressure, heart rate, and inflammation, all of which can harm heart health. Invest more time in healing yourself emotionally through yoga, pranayama, meditation, visualization, laughter, positive affirmations, etc. Vitamin Breathing: One deep inhale and exhale is all it takes to calm your mind and heart. Deep breathing is known to shift our body from a state of fight and flight to a state of rest and digestion almost instantly. This makes a regular practice of deep breathing an extremely heart-healthy habit. Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant-Rich Foods: The main reasons behind heart attacks are not cholesterol but inflammation and oxidative damage in the heart, blood vessels, endothelial lining, arteries, etc. Inflammation and oxidative damage are caused by the free radicals from the food that we eat, the air that we breathe, and several lifestyle choices that we make. Foods like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and black pepper - are potent foods to curb inflammation. Additionally, eat an array of differently colored fruits and berries when they are in season. Prioritize Sleep: Poor sleep or lack of sleep can be destructive to our heart health. This is because when we sleep, the heart gets a break and works lesser. The heart is a muscle and it requires recovery. Lack of sleep also increases insulin resistance, blood pressure, and inflammation. Stay Active: Sitting excessively is like smoking. Make sure you are physically active throughout the day. The risks of heart attacks are more in people who live inactive lifestyles. Walking, yoga, Zumba, and trekking are extremely beneficial exercises for the heart. Cut Out Smoking: Both active and passive smoking is toxic to the heart. Smoking contributes to both oxidative damage and inflammation in the body. The chemicals emitted from cigarette cause plaque build-up in the arteries. It also depletes several vitamins and minerals and hardens the arteries. Get more raw food in your diet for its fiber and antioxidant intake. 10 foods that will help your heart stay young and healthy Good Quality Oils: like coconut oil, pure A2 Gir cow ghee, and mustard oil help boost good cholesterol and fight inflammation. Omega 3-Rich Foods: Omega 3 fatty acid is an important and extremely healthy fatty acid for the heart. It helps in curbing inflammation, heals arterial walls, and boosts HDL while lowering LDL. E.g.: fatty fish, flax seeds, walnuts, and chia seeds to name a few. Beetroot: for its ability to act as a vasodilator and high antioxidant content. Garlic: for its inflammatory and bad cholesterol-lowering properties. It also acts as a natural blood thinner. Organic Tea (black, white, oolong, matcha): for its high antioxidant content, especially EGCG. Also, research now finds that it holds potent cholesterol-lowering properties and can prevent plaque build-up in the arteries. Fruits Like Grapes, Pomegranate, and Berries: for their high antioxidant content. Vitamin E-Rich Foods: for their ability to curb inflammation, fight free radicals, cell repair, and heal arteries. It's a must-have for people who are exposed to cigarette and industrial pollution. E.g.: sunflower seeds, unsalted peanuts, avocados, almonds, and sesame. Magnesium-Rich Foods: for their ability to boost cardiac muscle health, and blood pressure. E.g.: all nuts and seeds, green leafy vegetables, cacao. Potassium-Rich Foods: plays a role in every heartbeat. It manages blood pressure, and cardiac muscle contractions and keeps the heart rhythm steady. E.g.: banana, avocados, pumpkin. Vitamin K-Rich Foods: for high antioxidant properties and preventing calcification of arteries. E.g.: green leafy vegetables, broccoli, prunes, avocado. Foods to Avoid Refined Sugar and Refined Carbohydrate Intake: Both of them can contribute to inflammation, spike blood sugar levels and thus increase the risk of a heart attack. Also, excess of both could lead to elevated triglyceride levels. On the other hand, complex carbs like dosas, idlis, rotis, hand-pounded rice, etc are all healthy carbs and can be included in your diet for good health and preventing the risk of a heart attack. People who give up on such complex carbs end up being deficient in Vitamin K2 - which can result in the calcification of arteries. Refined Salt: Refined salt and MSG can create inflammation in the body, elevate blood pressure and cause water retention thereby burdening the kidneys. One can opt for Himalayan pink or rock salt after they keep their health professional in the loop. Refined Oils: Refined vegetable oils are rich in omega-6 fatty acids. Omega 6 is harmful to health as it leads to inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Processed and Packaged Foods: Processed and packaged foods too are causative to increased rates of heart attacks and stroke. This is again because this packaged and processed food is prepared with low-grade refined oil which increases oxidative damage and inflammation in the body. Excessive Tea and Coffee, Alcohol: Overconsumption of tea, and coffee can aggravate or cause acidity and inflammation, more so if the beverage contains sugar, cream, and other additives. Alcohol too can raise bad cholesterol, cause inflammation and elevate blood pressure. Read More► Walnuts For A Healthy Heart