Allied Healthcare (GAHC)

The top eight protein-rich nuts have been revealed by researchers, shedding light on their potential to enhance health and nutrition. Pine nuts, containing 7.4 grams of protein per 1-ounce serving, have been ranked highest, with almonds closely following at 6.1 grams. Other nuts recognized for their high protein content include pistachios (5.9 grams), cashews (5.2 grams), hazelnuts (4.7 grams), walnuts (4.3 grams), pecans (4.2 grams), and Brazil nuts (4.1 grams). These findings emphasise the role of nuts as a significant plant-based protein source.  

The inclusion of nuts in diets has been associated with numerous health benefits. As nutrient-dense foods, nuts provide not only protein but also healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Their regular consumption has been linked to improved heart health, effective weight management, and a potential reduction in the risks of chronic conditions such as diabetes and cancer.  

A daily intake of 1-2 ounces (28-57 grams) of nuts, preferably unsalted and unsweetened, is recommended by health experts. Options such as snacking on raw nuts, adding them to yoghurt or oatmeal, or using them as toppings for smoothie bowls and avocado toast are suggested for easy incorporation into meals. For those seeking creative options, nuts can be included in baked goods or homemade energy balls.  

The research underscores the critical role of nuts in addressing India’s protein deficiency challenges, particularly among those adhering to plant-based diets. Nuts, being both accessible and versatile, are recognized as an excellent protein source for the Indian population.  

As India continues to prioritise healthy eating habits, the findings serve as a timely reminder of the value of nuts. By integrating these protein-packed options into diets, individuals are empowered to make strides toward improved nutrition and overall wellness.

India’s healthcare sector is witnessing a remarkable transformation, with government spending reaching a historic 2.1% of GDP in FY23, up from 2.2% in FY22 and just 1.6% in FY21. This surge in expenditure underscores the nation’s commitment to public healthcare and universal health coverage, but what does it mean for the average Indian?  

The numbers tell a compelling story. Government health expenditure (GHE) has climbed steadily, from 1.2% of GDP in FY14 to 1.84% in FY21-22. Meanwhile, total health expenditure (THE) in 2020-21 hit a staggering ₹7,39,327 crore, equating to 3.73% of GDP and a per capita spend of ₹5,436. Most importantly for households, out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE)—the share of healthcare costs paid directly by individuals—has dropped dramatically, from 64.2% in FY14 to 47.1% in FY20. This reduction signals significant financial relief for millions of families.  

Primary healthcare is also gaining momentum, with its share in total healthcare expenditure increasing from 51.1% in FY14 to 55.2% in FY19. The government’s emphasis on grassroots healthcare services, driven by the National Health Policy, 2017, is reshaping how Indians access medical care. By prioritising preventive and promotive care, the policy reduces dependency on expensive secondary and tertiary treatments.  

This revolution in healthcare has been bolstered by initiatives like the National Health Account (NHA) estimates, which provide a detailed picture of spending patterns, and social health insurance schemes that cover millions of Indians. Increased budget allocations further highlight the government’s intent to make quality healthcare more accessible.  

But here’s the catch: despite these strides, India’s healthcare spending still lags behind global benchmarks. To truly transform the system, experts argue for sustained investments in infrastructure, skilled healthcare workers, and technological advancements.  

The stakes are high. With growing demands and an ever-evolving healthcare landscape, India must continue to innovate and invest. The future of healthcare is here—but it’s up to the government, private sector, and citizens to ensure it’s a future where quality care is a right, not a privilege.

A recent report by Capgemini has revealed five transformative trends reshaping the healthcare industry in 2024, with a focus on personalization, technology, and sustainability.

Advances in genomic analysis and AI diagnostics are enabling healthcare providers to tailor treatments more precisely, enhancing patient outcomes. This approach uses each patient's unique genetic and health profile to guide care decisions. Telemedicine, wearable devices, and mobile health apps are revolutionising access to healthcare. With more patients adopting remote care solutions, healthcare delivery is becoming more accessible and efficient, particularly for those in remote or underserved areas.

Artificial intelligence is being adopted widely to assist in clinical decision-making, streamline hospital operations, and predict patient outcomes. These AI-driven tools aim to make healthcare more responsive and reduce the burden on healthcare professionals.

Standardising health data sharing across platforms allows for smoother collaboration between healthcare providers. This interoperability improves the continuity of care and simplifies the patient journey across different health services. There is a growing emphasis on eco-friendly practices, digital health solutions, and value-based care models. These approaches focus on improving patient outcomes while also reducing the industry’s environmental footprint, which has become a priority amid rising environmental concerns.

73% of healthcare organisations are investing in AI, while telemedicine adoption has increased by 30%. Furthermore, 60% of patients are now open to sharing their health data for personalised care, indicating a shift in patient attitudes toward digital health.
Overall, these trends underscore the need for enhanced patient engagement, a focus on preventive care, and a commitment to sustainable, data-driven healthcare solutions as the industry moves forward in 2024.

Reducing postpartum weight while breastfeeding can be a delicate balance between maintaining a healthy diet and ensuring that your body has the necessary nutrients to support both your recovery and your baby's growth. It’s important to approach weight loss gently and gradually to avoid affecting milk supply and overall well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you lose weight in a healthy manner while breastfeeding:

1. Focus on a Balanced, Nutrient-Dense Diet

Breastfeeding requires extra calories, but it’s important to focus on the quality, not just the quantity, of your food. Opt for nutrient-dense, whole foods that support your health and milk production:
   - Fruits and vegetables: These are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber to help you feel full and energised.
   - Lean proteins: Foods like chicken, fish, beans, and lentils help repair tissues and maintain muscle mass.
   - Whole grains: Foods like brown rice, oats, and quinoa provide lasting energy.
   - Healthy fats: Avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil support overall health and can help regulate hormones.
By eating a balanced diet rich in these food groups, you can maintain your energy levels while supporting your baby’s nutritional needs.

2. Hydrate Well

Staying hydrated is important, especially while breastfeeding. It’s easy to confuse thirst with hunger, so drink plenty of water throughout the day. Herbal teas and water-rich fruits like watermelon and cucumbers can also help with hydration. However, be cautious with caffeinated drinks, as they can interfere with your milk supply if consumed in large quantities.

3. Gradual Caloric Deficit

When trying to lose weight postpartum, it's essential to do so gradually. A moderate caloric deficit—usually around 300 to 500 fewer calories than your daily caloric needs—is generally considered safe while breastfeeding. Avoid drastic calorie cuts, as they can impact milk production. It’s best to consult with your doctor or a nutritionist to determine a caloric intake that supports both your weight loss and your breastfeeding needs.

4. Incorporate Light Exercise

Physical activity can help you shed postpartum weight, but it’s important to start slow, especially if you’re just recovering from childbirth. Low-impact activities like walking, yoga, or swimming can be excellent ways to build strength and burn calories while minimizing the risk of injury. Once your doctor clears you for more strenuous activities, you can slowly incorporate exercises like strength training and cardio into your routine.
   - Postnatal exercises can help tone the muscles that may have weakened during pregnancy. Pelvic floor exercises and abdominal muscle strengthening exercises like pelvic tilts or light core workouts can also be beneficial.

5. Sleep and Rest

Lack of sleep can affect your metabolism, increase stress levels, and make it harder to lose weight. While it may be challenging to get enough rest with a newborn, try to rest when you can. Sleep is critical for your recovery, energy, and overall well-being. Studies show that adequate sleep can help balance hormones like cortisol, which play a role in weight management.

6. Avoid Crash Dieting or Extreme Diets

During breastfeeding, it's crucial to avoid restrictive or fad diets that can severely limit your calorie intake. These can not only reduce your milk supply but also deplete your energy reserves and affect your overall health. Instead, focus on small, sustainable changes, and give your body time to heal and adapt.

7. Be Patient and Realistic

Weight loss after childbirth is a slow process, and it’s important to set realistic expectations. On average, women can expect to lose about 1 to 2 pounds per month during the first six months postpartum, although it can vary depending on individual factors like metabolism, activity level, and whether you're exclusively breastfeeding.

8. Breastfeeding and Weight Loss

Breastfeeding can naturally help burn calories (about 300–500 extra calories per day), which can aid in weight loss. However, this is not an invitation to “eat for two” or overeat. The key is maintaining a balance between consuming enough calories to support milk production and creating a slight calorie deficit for gradual weight loss. Some women may also experience weight loss more slowly if they are breastfeeding, while others may find that it helps them shed the pounds more quickly.

9. Seek Support

If you’re struggling with weight loss or feeling overwhelmed, consider seeking guidance from a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who specialises in postpartum health. They can help you create a customised plan that meets your weight loss goals while ensuring your body gets the nutrients it needs for both you and your baby.

Postpartum weight loss while breastfeeding is about finding a healthy balance between nourishing your body, supporting your baby, and gradually shedding excess weight. With a focus on nutrient-dense foods, regular light exercise, adequate hydration, and plenty of rest, you can achieve your weight loss goals in a sustainable and healthy way. Always remember that every woman’s postpartum journey is different, and being patient with yourself is key to long-term success.

In recent years, parenting has evolved significantly, as societal norms, technological advancements, and shifting cultural expectations shape how parents approach raising their children. The traditional methods of child-rearing are being replaced with new age parenting techniques that emphasise emotional intelligence, flexibility, and a focus on overall well-being. This shift recognizes the importance of adapting to the fast-paced and ever-changing world in which we live, where the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century demand a more progressive and mindful approach to raising the next generation.

The Rise of Emotional Intelligence

One of the central pillars of new age parenting is the emphasis on emotional intelligence (EQ). Gone are the days when parents solely focused on academic success or behavioural control. Today, emotional development is just as critical, if not more so, in preparing children for the complexities of modern life. Parents are increasingly encouraged to engage with their children on an emotional level, helping them identify and manage their feelings, while also teaching empathy, kindness, and resilience.
This shift stems from research showing that children who grow up with strong emotional intelligence are better equipped to handle stress, build healthy relationships, and succeed in the workplace. Rather than resorting to punitive measures for bad behaviour, new age parents often prioritise open communication, active listening, and collaborative problem-solving, creating an environment where children feel understood and supported.

Parenting with Technology: A Double-Edged Sword

Technology has dramatically changed the landscape of parenting, both in terms of access to information and the challenges it presents. New age parents are navigating a world where smartphones, tablets, and social media are ever-present, which poses unique challenges in terms of screen time, online safety, and the potential for overexposure to digital content. 
However, many parents are learning to leverage technology as a tool for enhancing their child’s development. Educational apps, online learning platforms, and virtual extracurricular activities offer new ways for children to learn and explore the world around them. Rather than banning technology outright, new age parents are finding a balanced approach—setting clear boundaries, encouraging moderation, and guiding their children on how to use technology responsibly.
Furthermore, the digital world offers parents the opportunity to connect with like-minded communities, share experiences, and find support groups, which can be invaluable in the sometimes-isolating journey of parenthood. 

The Importance of Work-Life Balance

In the modern age, where both parents often juggle careers and personal commitments, work-life balance has become a central concern in parenting. New age parents prioritise carving out time for both professional and family life, understanding that quality time with children often outweighs the quantity of time spent. The rise of flexible work arrangements and remote working has allowed many parents to be more present in their children’s lives, offering opportunities for deeper connection and shared experiences.

Moreover, new age parenting encourages self-care for parents, recognizing that a well-rested and emotionally supported parent is better equipped to nurture their children. Taking time for one’s own well-being has become an essential aspect of modern parenting, as parents acknowledge that their mental health is integral to the well-being of the entire family unit.

Positive Discipline Over Punishment

When it comes to discipline, new age parenting is moving away from harsh punishment in favor of positive reinforcement and natural consequences. The goal is to teach children right from wrong through understanding rather than fear. New age parents use strategies like redirection, offering choices, and setting clear, consistent expectations that are explained in a calm and respectful manner.

This approach also focuses on the importance of modelling good behaviour. Parents who demonstrate qualities such as patience, respect, and responsibility are more likely to instil these same values in their children. By maintaining an open line of communication and emphasising mutual respect, new age parents are creating healthier, more harmonious family dynamics.

New age parenting is not about adhering to one set of rules but embracing flexibility, emotional awareness, and adaptability. As the world continues to change, so too will the ways in which we raise our children. By fostering a culture of open communication, emotional intelligence, and balanced technology use, new age parents are preparing the next generation to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Parenthood in the modern era is about embracing change and growth, both for parents and children, as they navigate the challenges of the 21st century together.

Patient assessment is a fundamental aspect of healthcare, involving a systematic evaluation of a patient's condition to identify any health problems and determine appropriate treatment.