‘The diet our ancestors ate did not increase obesity’

 ‘The diet our ancestors ate did not increase obesity’

Currently, social media is flooded with health, weight loss tips, and diet-related content.

‘The diet our ancestors ate did not increase obesity’

Nutritionist Modnath Poudel mentioned that weight loss alone is not an indicator of health, but a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and a healthy lifestyle should be the main priority.

Rather than following the propaganda in the name of weight loss on social media, he said that attention should be paid to expert advice and a diet based on scientific evidence.

Nowadays, healthy lifestyle, weight control, and diet-related topics are widely discussed from social media to households. Many people are following various diet plans, supplements, slim teas, and online advice with the aim of losing or gaining weight.

What is really needed to stay healthy? Is weight loss the main indicator of health? Is all the advice given on social media trustworthy? Focusing on these topics, online journalist Sumitra Luitel spoke to nutritionist Modnath Poudel. Here is an edited excerpt from the conversation with Poudel:

Is weight loss the main indicator of health?

A person should first aim to become ‘healthy’, not ‘fat’ or ‘thin’. The attitude towards the body has been changing in society over time. While obesity was once considered a sign of wealth, now there is a growing tendency to view obesity as a disease or weakness. However, health is more important than body size.

If a person is healthy, his or her weight, height, and physical structure are more likely to be naturally balanced. Therefore, before losing or gaining weight, one should adopt a diet and lifestyle that keeps the body healthy.

Traditional Nepali Food: Is it the basis of a balanced diet or not?

The traditional and local foods eaten in Nepali society are naturally balanced. Taking dishes like Thakali as an example, traditional food has a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, and other nutrients.

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The food eaten by previous generations did not cause obesity or malnutrition. But now, as food options increase, people are becoming more confused. With the introduction of new food items, processed foods, and genetically modified (GMO) foods in the market, confusion about what to eat and what not to eat has increased.

For lunch and dinner, you should prioritize your traditional and body-accepted food as much as possible. Breakfast should be adequate, nutritious, and balanced. If breakfast and main meals are organized, some weaknesses in snacks in between will not have a big impact.

Is the same diet suitable for everyone?

Everyone's body is different. Even among members living in the same family and eating the same food, some gain weight while others lose.

The main reason for this is the difference in the body's metabolism, digestive process, health condition, age, hormones and lifestyle. For example, metabolism may be slow in people with thyroid. But metabolism may also be slow in people without thyroid for various reasons.

Therefore, it is not scientifically correct to cut down on food or adopt someone else's weight loss method just because you have gained weight. First of all, it is necessary to find out the root cause of weight gain or loss.

What is the concept of 'Food is Medicine'?

'Food is Medicine' is the concept of 'using food as medicine'. Its main message is not to depend on medicine only after getting sick, but to prevent disease and promote health through proper nutrition in daily life.

According to the World Health Organization, many non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, etc., are directly related to diet and lifestyle.

For example, antioxidants found in fruits and green vegetables help fight free radicals that damage the body. Fish, chia seeds, and walnuts, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can help improve heart health.

A healthy diet can help control many health problems. But that doesn’t mean making food a substitute for medicine. For example, eggs are an excellent source of protein. But not everyone’s body digests eggs the same way. You may need to change your eating habits if you’re sick. So just because a food doesn’t work for someone doesn’t mean it’s bad for everyone.

Diet advice on social media: How much should you trust?

Social media is flooded with health, weight loss, and diet-related content. While some content is scientifically based, most content is created for personal experience, business gain, or popularity.

When looking at any health-related material, the first thing to do is to evaluate who the person is presenting it to, what their expertise is, and whether the information they provide is based on scientific evidence.

A cardiologist can give advice on heart issues, a hormone specialist can talk about hormone issues. Similarly, a dietitian can talk about nutrition. The role of a dietitian and nutritionist is important. Advice given by an expert in one field on another field should also be critically evaluated.

How true are the claims of Slim Tea, Garcinia Cambogia and miraculous weight loss?

Nowadays, products such as Garcinia Cambogia, Slim Tea, Slimming Coffee are being widely promoted on social media and in the market. These products claim to reduce weight quickly.

But no single food or drink can make a person thin or fat. Body weight is the result of the overall lifestyle, diet, sleep, physical activity, mental health and biological state.

If someone starts to eat less by drinking Slim Tea, they may lose weight for a while. But that is not a healthy way. It can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weakness and other health problems in the long run.

A balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular physical activity and a healthy lifestyle are the only sustainable ways to control weight. No ‘magic’ product or ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution can provide a long-term solution.

Do doctors and dietitians play different roles?

Both doctors and dietitians aim to improve the health of patients, but their scope of work is different. While doctors diagnose, test, and administer medications, dietitians help improve health and manage diseases through nutrition. Therefore, it is not appropriate for a dietitian to try to stop medication or replace a doctor's treatment regimen.

Similarly, it is more effective for a doctor to collaborate with a dietitian when necessary rather than providing detailed nutritional advice. Multidisciplinary collaboration is necessary for the patient's well-being.

What should be done to get rid of the misconceptions spread in the name of losing weight and improving health?

The biggest challenge today is the growing confusion among people. Due to social media, advertising, and incomplete information, people sometimes try to completely avoid a certain food, and sometimes they consider a certain food to be a miracle solution.

In fact, the basis of health is a balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular physical activity, stress management, and eating according to individual needs. Not one diet, one medicine, or one solution is suitable for everyone.

Therefore, there is an increased need to prioritize scientific evidence, qualified expert advice, and the needs of one's body over the myths spread in the name of weight loss or health improvement.

Can you eat chicken after bird flu? 5 Q&A with an expert

 Can you eat chicken after bird flu? 5 Q&A with an expert

The occasional outbreak of bird flu in different parts of the country has increased concern and confusion among consumers. As soon as the news of an infection being confirmed in a farm is made public, the same question arises in the minds of many people, is it safe to eat chicken now?

The answers to these questions are as follows:

1. How does bird flu spread to humans? Who is at higher risk?

Bird flu can be transmitted to humans through the feces, saliva, feathers, or body fluids of infected birds. People who work on farms, slaughter chickens, handle dead birds, or clean infected cages are especially at risk. The virus can also enter the body by mixing with contaminated dust or air.

However, there is no disease that can be easily spread from person to person yet.

2. Can you eat bird flu-infected chicken?

If it is cooked well, the virus cannot survive, which does not pose a risk of infection. However, raw or undercooked meat remains a risk.

The virus is inactivated at temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius. Therefore, there is no need to worry if meat and eggs are cooked well. However, it is necessary to wash hands with soap and water after touching raw meat, separate raw and cooked food, and pay attention to hygiene in the kitchen.

However, according to international public health standards, it is considered risky to allow infected animals to enter the food chain. If infection is confirmed according to the standards, chicken meat is not suitable for consumption. Therefore, even if the virus is likely to be destroyed, it is not recommended to eat infected chicken meat.

According to international public health standards, it is considered risky to allow infected animals to enter the food chain. If infection is confirmed according to the standards, chicken meat is not suitable for consumption.

3. How to recognize chickens with bird flu? What do they look like?

Sudden death of many chickens, reduced feed intake, lethargy, reduced egg production, difficulty breathing, or swollen heads are the main signs of bird flu. If such symptoms are observed, the veterinary service office should be immediately reported. Hiding the infection can increase the risk.

4. How can chickens with bird flu reach the market?

Under normal circumstances, government agencies take control of chickens in areas where the infection has been confirmed and arrange for their destruction. In addition, surveillance is increased in such areas and sales and distribution are prohibited.

However, in some cases, due to lack of information, negligence, or attempts to reduce financial losses, there is a risk of hiding infected or suspicious chickens and selling them. For this reason, consumers should not buy meat from random sources.

It is wise to buy meat only from reliable, approved, and regularly monitored stores.

5. Should you stop eating all chicken meat after bird flu is detected?

Not necessarily. Just because bird flu has been detected does not mean that all chicken meat is unsafe. Chicken and its products produced from farms that have been certified by the relevant body as disease-free and safe can be consumed normally.

What precautions should consumers take?

When purchasing chicken, one should pay attention to its source. Chicken that is sick, has died unnaturally, or looks suspicious should not be used.

Special attention should be paid to hygiene while cutting, washing, and cooking meat. Utensils, knives, cutting boards, and hands that have come into contact with raw meat should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water. Ensure that the meat is fully cooked. Such general precautions help prevent various foodborne infections.

However, chicken meat from confirmed, suspected, or controlled areas should not be used. Consumers should make decisions based on official information and advice from health authorities.

Why is genetic testing necessary during pregnancy? Who should get it done, when?

 Why is genetic testing necessary during pregnancy? Who should get it done, when?

Genetic testing is not something to be afraid of. Its purpose is to identify whether the child has any genetic problems in a timely manner.

According to pediatrician and genetic specialist Dr. Surbhi Aryal, although genetic testing is not necessary for everyone during pregnancy, it is considered very important in special situations.

It is natural for parents to have many questions and concerns about the health of the baby during pregnancy. In particular, whether the child has any congenital or hereditary problems has become a matter of interest for many.

In recent years, access to genetic testing has been expanding in Nepal as well, which has made it possible to identify some serious diseases in the womb. Who needs genetic testing? How much does family history affect? ​​When and which tests are performed? Is the test safe or not? And what options are available to parents if a problem is found in the test?

Pediatrician and genetic specialist Dr. A detailed conversation with Surbhi Aryal:

Should all women undergo genetic testing during pregnancy or is it only recommended for special situations?

Not all pregnant women need genetic testing. But in some special cases, it may be necessary if the doctor recommends it. For example, if the pregnant woman is over 35 years old, has had a genetic disease in a previous child, has a history of hereditary diseases in family members, or is suspected of having a genetic problem, then testing may be necessary.

Similarly, if a dual marker or quadruple marker test shows a risk, further confirmatory testing is required. In some cases, even if both parents are ‘carriers’ of a disease, testing of the unborn child is necessary. For example, if both husband and wife are carriers of thalassemia, special testing is done because there is a possibility of passing the disease on to the child.

How much does family history increase the risk of a genetic disease in an unborn child?

Family history is considered very important in genetics. Many genetic diseases are hereditary, so if someone in the family has the condition, the baby may also be at risk.

For example, some diseases, such as hemophilia or Duchenne muscular dystrophy, are X-linked, which means they are usually passed down from the mother's side. If a pregnant woman has a history of these diseases in her siblings or maternal grandparents, she should definitely tell her doctor.

Thalassemia, spinal muscular atrophy, and many other diseases can also cause the disease in her child if the parents are carriers. Therefore, it is important to be open about your family health history with your doctor during your prenatal check-up.

When is the best time to have genetic testing?

Different tests have different times.

NT scan: Between 11-13 weeks

Dual marker test: In the first trimester

Quadruple test: Up to about 20 weeks

NIPT: After 10 weeks

Chorionic villus sampling: At 12-13 weeks

Amniocentesis: After 14-15 weeks

When is the most appropriate test to perform?

Which tests are done depends on the age of the fetus, risk factors, and medical needs.

Which diseases can be detected through genetic testing?

Genetic testing helps identify many types of hereditary and chromosomal diseases. Down syndrome is one of the most commonly tested diseases. In addition, trisomy 13, trisomy 18, and other chromosomal problems can also be detected.

If there is a history of a specific genetic disease in the family or if the parents are carriers, monogenic diseases can also be identified through gene testing. Current technology has developed the ability to detect many types of genetic diseases during pregnancy.

How safe are these tests during pregnancy?

Many parents worry about whether genetic testing will affect the baby or the mother. But most tests are safe. Ultrasound and screening tests using maternal blood do not harm the mother or the baby. They are considered completely safe.

Invasive tests such as CVS or amniocentesis may have a small risk because they use needles. However, the risk is very low when performed by an experienced specialist. If the doctor recommends it, there is no need to be afraid.

What options do parents have if a problem is found in the test?

If the test shows a genetic problem in the baby, the first thing to do is to consult a geneticist, genetic counselor or pediatrician to understand the nature, severity and future of the disease.

Every disease is different. In some cases, special monitoring, additional tests or a plan to deliver in a special health facility may be made.

In some serious diseases, the baby's life expectancy may be very low. In such cases, a decision can be made about the available options with the advice of a specialist.

Is treatment possible after genetic diseases are detected in the womb?

Most genetic diseases are not curable by taking medicines like other diseases. In such cases, the main focus is on supportive therapy, rehabilitation services, regular monitoring and long-term management. Therefore, early detection of the disease is the most important aspect.

What is the access and cost of genetic testing in Nepal?

Until a few years ago, samples had to be sent abroad for many genetic tests. It was a situation where there was no such thing as a genetic test. Now, dual marker, quadruple test, NIPT and many invasive tests are available in Nepal.

However, these services are mainly concentrated in urban areas. They are yet to be expanded to rural areas. When it comes to cost, not all tests are very expensive. Some screening tests start at around Rs. 5,000, while some complex tests may cost more. Therefore, the idea that ‘genetic testing is very expensive’ is not entirely correct.

Does the risk of genetic diseases increase as the mother ages?

As a woman ages, the chances of changes in the chromosomes in the egg increase. This may also increase the risk of chromosomal problems in the child.

Especially when pregnant at the age of 35 or above, the chances of Down syndrome, trisomy and other chromosomal abnormalities are relatively high, so doctors recommend additional tests in such cases.

What are the common misconceptions or misconceptions about genetic testing?

There are still some misconceptions in society about genetic testing. First, the idea that ‘if no one in the family has a genetic disease, the child will not have it either’. In fact, not all genetic diseases are hereditary. Some can even appear in new forms.

Second, the misconception that ‘genetic testing is a test to distinguish between sons and daughters’. Its main purpose is to identify whether a baby has a genetic disease, not to determine gender.

Third, the idea that ‘this test is too expensive for ordinary people to get it done’. Not all tests are expensive and are recommended only according to medical necessity.

How do you see the future of genetic services in Nepal?

The future of genetic services in Nepal is very promising. The services currently available need to be expanded to rural areas, not limited to urban areas.

This requires skilled manpower, infrastructure, and government investment. Over time, this service is likely to become an important part of basic health care.

Finally, what is your message to parents?

Genetic testing is not something to be afraid of. The aim is to identify the child early if there is a genetic problem. If the doctor has advised screening or confirmatory testing, then you should do it with confidence.

If the disease is identified early, it is easier to provide the necessary counseling, planning, and management. Therefore, it is wise to prioritize the doctor's advice without getting confused.

Eating more legumes and soybeans reduces the risk of high blood pressure by 30 percent

 Eating more legumes and soybeans reduces the risk of high blood pressure by 30 percent

Eating about 170 grams of legumes daily reduces the risk of high blood pressure by about 30 percent.

Regular consumption of legumes and soybean-based foods is very effective in reducing the risk of high blood pressure, a new study has shown. According to a large report published in the journal 'BMJ Nutrition Prevention and Health', people who eat more of these foods are found to be much less likely to have high blood pressure.

Analyzing various studies conducted around the world, scientists have found a clear result. The risk of high blood pressure has been found to be reduced by 16 percent in people who eat more legumes. Similarly, this risk has been found to be reduced by 19 percent in people who eat more soybeans and dishes made from them.

According to the research, eating a certain amount of these foods daily is the most beneficial. Eating about 170 grams of legumes daily reduces the risk of high blood pressure by about 30 percent. Similarly, eating 60 to 80 grams of soy foods daily reduces the risk by 28 to 29 percent.

But scientists have said that eating more than that does not provide any additional benefit. Here, 100 grams of beans or soybeans is understood to be one cup of cooked beans or about 5 to 6 tablespoons.

This research included data from 12 long-term studies conducted in various countries in the United States, Europe and Asia. Beans and soybeans are rich in elements such as potassium, magnesium and fiber. These nutrients help balance blood pressure. The fiber in beans relaxes and widens the blood vessels in the body. In addition, a substance called 'isoflavones' found in soybeans also helps reduce blood pressure.

Currently, people in countries around the world, including Europe and the UK, eat very little beans. Although it is recommended to eat 65 to 100 grams of legumes daily for heart health, people are only eating 8 to 15 grams per day.

According to nutritionists, this research provides a strong basis for people to prioritize legumes and soybeans as the main sources of protein in their daily diet.

How does environmental pollution affect reproductive health?

 How does environmental pollution affect reproductive health?

It can weaken the quality of eggs. Ovarian function can decrease prematurely. Hormonal imbalance can occur.

Studies have shown that environmental pollution and harmful chemicals are having a serious negative impact on human hormonal systems and reproductive health.

Today, the world is facing the challenges of climate change, air pollution, and environmental degradation. The debate on environmental protection often focuses on the protection of forests, wildlife, rivers, and natural resources. However, scientific research in recent years has revealed that environmental risks are not limited to nature alone but also have a profound impact on human health, especially reproductive health.

The air we breathe, the food we eat, the objects we use, and the environment we live in can directly affect our body's hormonal system, reproductive capacity, and the health of future generations.

Therefore, environmental protection today has become not only a campaign to save the earth, but also a campaign to secure the health and future of future generations.

Environmental Pollution and Reproductive Health

In modern lifestyles, we are exposed to various chemicals on a daily basis. Some of the elements found in plastic bottles, pesticides used in food production, industrial pollution, smoking, chemicals in cosmetics, and polluted air are called endocrine disrupting chemicals.

These chemicals can affect the body's hormonal system. Since hormones are the basic regulators of the reproductive process, an imbalance in them can affect everything from conception to childbirth.

Impact on women

Environmental risks can also have a serious impact on reproductive health in women. This can weaken the quality of eggs. Ovarian function can decrease prematurely. Hormone imbalances can occur. Difficulty in conceiving can occur. Miscarriages and pregnancy-related complications can increase. It can also affect the success of fertility treatments.

Research has shown that environmental pollution can also affect the outcome of treatment, especially in couples undergoing infertility treatment.

Effects on Men

Long-term exposure to environmental pollution and harmful chemicals can cause various problems in male fertility. Sperm count may decrease. Sperm motility may decrease.

Sperm quality may decrease. Sperm DNA may be damaged. The chances of conception may decrease. Various studies are raising concerns about the gradual decline in sperm count in men around the world, in which environmental pollution is seen as a significant cause.

The relationship between air pollution and infertility

According to the World Health Organization, air pollution is one of the leading causes of global health risks today. Recent research has indicated that there is a direct relationship between air pollution and reproductive health.

A fact sheet presented at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology 2025 stated that people living within 200 meters of a main road are at higher risk of infertility than other people.

It also states that the chance of pregnancy can increase by about 3 percent for every additional 200 meters away from a main road. This has further clarified the link between traffic pollution and reproductive health.

Pregnancy and air pollution

The effects of air pollution are not only visible before conception, but also throughout pregnancy. Fine particulate matter PM 2.5 can enter the bloodstream through the lungs and reach the unborn child. This has the potential to affect fetal development.

Climate change and maternal health

Climate change has not only increased temperatures, it has also added serious challenges to the health of pregnant women and newborns. Pregnant women exposed to extreme heat may have an increased risk of premature birth.

Low-birth-weight babies may be born. The risk of stillbirth may increase. High blood pressure may occur during pregnancy. Longer hospital stays may be required.

Rising temperatures, heat waves, floods, inundations and natural disasters are also affecting pregnant women's access to health services.

Global impact of the climate crisis

According to the World Health Organization, about 3.6 billion people in the world live in areas highly vulnerable to the health impacts of climate change.

The impact is not the same for everyone. Economically and socially vulnerable communities, women in rural areas, pregnant women and newborns are at higher risk. The impact can be even more severe in communities with limited access to health services.

What should be done now?

The evidence on the link between climate change, environmental pollution and reproductive health is constantly strengthening. Therefore, it is now necessary to look at public health, the environment and climate change from an integrated perspective, not as separate issues.

- To this end, air pollution control should be prioritized. The use of clean and renewable energy should be increased.

- The use of plastics and harmful chemicals should be reduced. Special attention should be paid to the safety of pregnant women and newborns.

- Climate-resilient health systems should be developed.

- Investment in scientific research and evidence-based policymaking should be increased A campaign should be launched at the community level to adopt an environmentally friendly lifestyle.