Your size is not a matter of perception but a mathematical fact that you can calculate, says Dr Gita Mathai.
What are the commonly used parameters?
The BMI (Body Mass Index) is easily measured. It is weight (in kg) divided by height (in meters) squared.
BMI
Weight Status
Below 18.5
Underweight
18.5 – 23.9
Normal
24.0 – 29.9
Overweight
30.0 and Above
Obese
BMI has some limitations. If it is calculated for adults who are very muscular, or very thin, they may fall erroneously into…
- By nutritionist Kohila Govindaraju Breakfast Fried beehoon (plain) with bean sprouts, stir-fried vegetables (cabbage/string beans/French beans/ okra) - 2 servings Tip: One serving is 3⁄4 of a coffee mug (glass mug/cup served at hawker coffee stall) Or Wholegrain sandwich with egg, lettuce, tomato and cheese or light mayonnaise Kopi O or Teh O Mid-morning snack Have any one of the following: An apple or banana or bowl of chopped carrots or celery or jicama (…
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Meaning Vriksha is tree, asana is posture. Thus this aasana reflects the shape of a tree Benefits of Vrikshasana 1. Helps increase physical balance and coordination. 2. This asana balances the nervous system and develops control of the body. 3. Improves focus and concentration. 4. Makes legs supple and strengthens muscles of the leg, foot and ankle. 5. Vrikshasana is a synchronised effort of body and mind. 6. It is similar to the natural posture of a tree which helps to make the mind tranquil.…
Who needs to drink milk, how much and what kind? Paediatrician and family practitioner Dr Gita Mathai has all the facts. There’s nothing like mother’s milk Newborns, infants and children definitely require milk until the age of one. Mother’s breast milk is the ideal food for newborns as it is easily digestible, free from bacteria and available on demand at the right temperature. Despite our evolution and our technological leaps, no scientist has been able to perfectly replicate human milk…
Inflammation has been linked to a slew of diseases – from allergies to cancer, heart trouble, bowel problems and diabetes. What is it and how can we protect ourselves. - By paediatrician and family practitioner Dr Gita Mathai. What is inflammation? The word is derived from the Latin “inflammo” meaning ignite or set alight. It conjures up visions of fire, and it is the body’s response to an injury, like a broken bone, a scrape in the skin or an infection by an organism (…
A new study has found out why working up a sweat is so relaxing and mood-boosting. Exercise actually detoxes harmful chemicals from the body and can alleviate depression. Researchers at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden have discovered that physical activity purges the blood of a substance which accumulates during stress and can be harmful to the brain. Previous studies have suggested that people feel more positive after exercise because it releases a rush of endorphins. But it now…
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Meaning Go is Cow, Mukha is face, Asana is posture. The folded legs at the knees resemble a cow’s mouth, hence the name. Benefits of Gomukhasana 1. This is a good practice for opening up the chest 2. It relieves tension in the shoulders and the upper back 3. If practised over a month, it induces overall relaxation 4. This posture increases energy levels Contraindications Normally this practice is not disallowed for anyone. But if you are unable to sit in the posture, you can stand or sit…
Make the right choices with tips from nutritionist Kohila Govindaraju. 1. I love stir-fried vegetables with oyster sauce or garlic sauce. But I am trying to cut down on my salt intake. Which one is healthier? Unfortunately both are loaded with sodium. 1 tsp of oyster sauce contains 345mg sodium. And garlic sauce is made with oyster sauce, too! So, your best option when dining out is to ask for stir-fried veggies with fresh garlic and less salt (no sauce). When cooking…
Meaning : Shav is corpse; asana is posture. The name reflects the posture of a dead body. Benefits of Shavasana 1. This practice is for complete physical and mental relaxation. 2. It brings great psycho-physiological coordination. 3. Releases stiffness and fatigue, enhancing relaxation of the body. 4. Helps reduce stress, anxiety, depression, confusion, insomnia, dementia, etc. 5. Improves breathing and awareness, both internally and externally. 6. Good for all disorders related to stress…
