The price of discovery; balancing curiosity with caution

I recently found myself reading about some of history’s greatest scientific pioneers. I was initially drawn in by their groundbreaking discoveries—the theories that changed entire fields, the inventions that pushed humanity forward, the insights. It was fascinating, even inspiring, to realize just how much they contributed to science. 

But as I dug deeper, I was struck by another realization: many of these brilliant minds didn’t just take intellectual risks; they exposed themselves to personal dangers, sometimes with irreversible consequences. These weren’t just scientists—they were risk-takers, willing to sacrifice their health and safety for the sake of knowledge. This added layer made me appreciate their work even more, recognizing that behind many of the discoveries we take for granted are tales of courage, sacrifice, and, at times, personal tragedy.

One of these remarkable figures was Dr. Barry Marshall, who drank a broth containing Helicobacter pylori bacteria to prove its role in causing stomach ulcers.

This bold experiment led him to develop gastritis and an ulcer, but it ultimately changed how the medical world understood and treated the condition.

Similarly, Isaac Newton’s experiment with a bodkin—a sharp needle inserted behind his own eyeball—showed his unrelenting curiosity, even if it meant risking his vision to study light and color. Newton's actions, as unsettling as they might seem, revealed the lengths to which some scientists would go to understand nature’s secrets.

There were also others like Marie Curie (known for her groundbreaking research on radioactivity), and Werner Forssmann’s (known for his discovery in the field of cardiac catheterization), who at the cost of great personal risks and damage, contributed to our understanding of nuclear physics and cardiology. 

Reflecting on these stories, I cannot help but admire how much they sacrificed in order to shape our knowledge of science today. Their sheer dedication, perseverance and integrity towards their field is awe inspiring. 

However, it also makes me ponder on the thin line between curiosity and recklessness.

If our curiosity is satiated at the cost of personal risk, if progress can be made only at the cost of personal tragedy, is it really worth it? 

Today, we’re more aware of the dangers experimentation can bring. We also possess the tools to mitigate them. The pioneers of yesteryear were not equipped with that luxury. And yet, their thirst for knowledge, their passion for breakthroughs was far greater. Reading their stories has made me appreciate not just the knowledge they uncovered, but the courage it must have taken them to get there. 

However, as impressed by their outcomes as I am, their journeys also  remind me that progress doesn’t have to come at any cost; it can be both bold and safe, driven by both heart and wisdom. And in that perhaps lies the true spirit of discovery. 

I leave you all with a question -  

If your passion is directs you towards uncharted territory, and your caution holds you back, how far would you really venture? 

#AmrishPuri: Bollywood remembers

I was talking to a friend the other day about how kids nowadays are more acquainted with the greys of life, right from an early age. 

“Even in Bollywood cinema, there is no clear cut demarcation between the good guy and the bad guy,” she said. 

And that got me thinking on how naive we were as children. Having personalities spelt out to us. The villain was the one who didn’t possess a modicum of goodness in him, and the hero was always the handsome, righteous, victim who had the bravado and courage to undo any evil the villain vested on the world (and of course the hapless heroine). But now the lines have blurred. Most films nowadays don’t even have a villain. Even the bad guys gracefully back out and let the hero get his way, often being the martyr and happy playing a special appearance in the film. 

But back in the day, things were very different.

I remember watching Mr India, and rooting for Anil Kapoor all the way. I shuddered every time Amrish Puri mouthed the words ‘Mogambo khush hua’. I cringed at his cow lick, his dictatorial clothes, his expressions, all of which rendered him the look of pure evil. 

An actor who played his characters to perfection, immortalising his every role in our memory forever. 

Be it the the dastardly Durjan Singh aka Ranaji in Karan Arjun or the deplorable Raja Saab in Kayla, the audience loved to hate him...and that just proved his finesse on the big screen. 

Amrish Puri’s career, although started a little late, took off very soon. And within 30 years of his acting career, he proved to be one of the very best in his field. 

He made his debut in 1971 in a film titled, ‘Reshma aur shera’. Since then he acted in several Hindi, Marathi, Telugu, Malaylam , punjabi, Kannada, and English films. He also worked with notable playwrights like Girish Karnad, and Satyajit Dubey. 

In 1981, he played a supporting role in the Oscar winning movie, ‘Gandhi’.

Steven Spielberg was once quoted saying Amrish Puri was his fav villain and that he was the best the world had ever produced and will ever produce.

Such was the magic of this Amrish Puri, an actor par excellence, who managed to mesmerise the audience with his versatility, dedication, and passion for acting. 

Here are ten of his unforgettable roles (in no particular order): 

1) Master in Salakhein - with his classic retro giggles and wig, Amrish Puri played this iconic character. 

2) Chaudhary Baldev in DDLJ

3) The treacherous Indrajit Chaddha, in ‘Damini’ 

4) Thakral in Meri Jung - as a massively corrupt lawyer who pretends to be a law abiding person.  

5) General Dong in Dong- His famous dialogue ‘Dong kabhie wrong nani hota’ is still spouted by his fans even today. 

6) Snake charming occultist in Nagina - Bhairon Nath 

7) Kishorilal in Pardes

8) Mola Ram in Spielberg’s Indiana jones and the temple of doom. 

9) SK Vardhan in ‘Mashaal’ - starring against the great Dilip Kumar and talented young Anil Kapoor, Amrish Puri made an indelible mark with his powerful performance in this film.

10) And last but the most iconic and my very favourite role, Mogambo, in Mr India. 

In commemoration of his 89th birth anniversary, let us celebrate the legend that he was by recalling his extraordinary performances on the big screen. 

So tell me, which ‘Amrish Puri’ character is your absolute favourite? 

#WorldBrailleDay: a collective insight

"The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision” - Hellen Keller. 

A sighted person may not always understand the perils of those who are not as lucky and may often tend to take his gift for granted. The sightless, on the other hand, have to fight their own hurdles and face their own challenges. To add insult to injury the society is not always supportive, making it rather difficult for a differently abled person to live a productive life. 

In 1809, Louis Braille, a French educator, who had himself lost his eyesight in a childhood accident, devised a tactile reading and writing system. This system consisted of raised dots and was sadly accepted and taught in schools in the U.S only by 1916 by which time Louis was dead. Decades later, in November 2018, the UN chose the fourth of January  to be commemorated as #WorldBrailleDay in his memory in order to increase awareness and sensitivity among people world over.

Over time, advances in science and technology has led to constant improvisations of techniques and ideas of innovation. We now have audio books, Google assistants, and technologically driven lifestyle aids that are voice sensitive. However, one cannot undermine the role that Braille played in lighting the flame of hope and passing on the baton for an equal world. 

So here is a list of Braille friendly endeavours that are touching hearts and paving ways towards an inclusive society. 

In India

• ITC Savlon along with NAB (National Association for the Blind) initiated a design change for its antiseptic liquid pack and made it available to several NAB centres, select blind schools and educative workshops. 

• Taco Bell Mumbai, in two of its outlets, one at Rcity, Ghatkopar and the other at Viviana Mall, Thane, set an example by introducing the first Braille Menu for blind consumers. The menu was/is in print as well as in Braille-and audio-enabled in order to be accessible to all. A very sensitive and all-inclusive gesture.

• Nawabs Wajid Ali Shah Zoological gardens in Lucknow has Braille educational boards for the convenience of visually impaired visitors. This is done in order to promote inclusivity, spread awareness, education, and conservation of the wild life and ecosystem among all alike, abled and differently abled individuals. 

Inspiration from the rest of the world: 

• Argentina has Tiflolibros and digital libraries started by the WIPPO (world intellectual properties protection organisation). These help in making a vast collection of books and reading material accessible to the visually impaired. 

• L’Occitane, a French beauty company, has done a fantastic job in successfully incorporating Braille into its packaging of almost 70% of its products. 
• There are several other more economical and simpler ways to improve packaging and make it all inclusive. Square packaging instead of round bottles when it comes to bath products will ensure the product won't roll off and will be in easy reach even if it slips. A tactile code system like a raised strip on a shampoo bottle and dot on conditioner will make it easy for the visually impaired to identify. These have been employed in other countries and should be considered in India as well. 
• Medical prescriptions can get real tedious to follow if one is visually impaired, especially when it comes to following the instructions written in tiny print on the cover of medicine bottles. So the U.S has come up with a perfect solution to the problem. CVS pharmacy, in the United States, has collaborated with the American Council for the Blind and created a new and particularly helpful feature on the CVS Pharmacy phone app, known as the SpokenRx. SpokenRx is an in-app prescription reader and is specially designed to read out all the information on prescription bottles, thus making it a lot more convenient for those unable to read the tiny font themselves. CVS pharmacy plans to equip all pharmacies in the U.S with this feature by 2021 end.

We can only hope India will work towards taking similar steps. Living with dignity is a basic human right and it is our duty as people living in the society to promote an all-inclusive behavior to each and every one of its members. To ensure equal rights to education, freedom of expression and financial safety to all its members. Compared to the West, India still has a long way to go. But hope springs eternal. And if a general sense of humanity persists, we will get there...

Speaking of which, one voluntary organisation that deserves to be mentioned for its commendable efforts to spreading hope and positivity is We4You. I came across their page on Facebook a couple of years ago and volunteered to donate my voice for their audio books...a feature that promises to help visually impaired children to visualize the world in a better way. To spark their power of imagination. To impart education through academic textbooks. To engage and inspire with story telling. I hope my recordings were able to do justice. 

We4You helps visually impaired children to find their footing in the world, through audio books, vocational training, and education. They encourage, empower, hone skills, provide accessible information, and employment assistance. 

Do check out their page and become a volunteer if you wish. We need to support such efforts in whichever way we can.

Ending here on a pensive note, with a poignant quote for you to reflect upon...

"There is no better way to thank God for your sight than by giving a helping hand to someone in the dark."  ~ Helen Keller

#WorldCancerDay: The faith that moves mountains

When I first read Erich Segal’s ‘Love story’, I recall weeping like a child. I was in my teens back then, naive, gullible, and high strung on love and fresh air. But even then, what was more heartbreaking than losing a lover was the idea of losing a lover to the big C or some other illness that medical science had little grasp over.

Later, as a student in medical school, I was subjected to the chemo ward of almost every department there was. I recall being startled the first time I saw a toddler in the pediatrics department writhing in pain from Hodgkin's lymphoma. He was suffering but he was fighting with every gasp in his frail body. How could such a cruel fate be dealt to such a tiny child, I thought. During internship, I was asked by the resident in charge to administer chemotherapy to a middle aged woman. It was that day that I realized that Cancer does not discriminate. It treats everyone equally, with the same lack of empathy, the same irreverence--the pain, the grief, and the challenge were the same...whether it was a six months old toddler held down by his parents or a fifty five year old woman surrounded by her husband and teenage children.

Today, there are seven deaths per minute occurring from cancer. It is the second leading cause of death in the world.

Much progress has been made in the field of cancer research and prevention. Yet, we haven’t been able to gain complete control over the disease—-it still poses to be a severe threat to the physical and mental well being of man.

A lot of us are still unaware or uninformed about this condition. Worse still, some of us misinterpret something we hear/read...and pass on these misinterpretations/ misinformation eventually leading to widespread ignorance and hysteria.

It is for this very reason that the Union of International Cancer Control have been observing the fourth of February every year (since 2000) as #WorldCancerDay to raise awareness about Cancer symptoms and to emphasize the need for its early detection through screening tests and biopsy. This year, the theme for World Cancer Day is “I am, and I will”...an acknowledgement of the strength inside every person to battle the disease.

Following is the list of symptoms one should watch out for:

• Any abnormal growth/lump anywhere in the body...especially in the breast, folds of private areas, armpits, abdomen. Regular examination of the breast while having a shower should be done by all females, irrespective of age. 

• Abdominal bloating, pain, significant & unexplained loss of appetite, significant & unexplained loss of weight, excessive fatigue.

• Bleeding in post menopausal women, excessive vaginal (foul smelling, bloody, or coloured) discharge, discharge (blood tinged or coloured) from breasts.

• In males - blood in urine or semen, painful/burning urination more at night, leaking, unsteady stream, sudden Erectile Dysfunction, urinary retention  should be investigated for prostatic malignancy.

How do we keep Cancer away? 

There are various kinds of cancers and every body reacts to it differently. There is no sure shot formula for cancer prevention or treatment. What we can do, however, is strengthen our immune system through a well balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Diet:

Eating the right kind of diet is imperative for maintaining a healthy immune system. A balanced diet containing the the right amount of carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables, and fat.

Certain foods are known to possess anti cancer properties. These include...

• Apples because they contain polyphenols known for their anti cancer properties.

• Berries - contain anthrocyanin that is known to lower biomarkers for colon cancer.

• Carrots - beneficial in supporting the immune system, lowers incidence of  breast cancer and prostrate cancer.

• Freshwater fish - possesses omega-3 fatty acids prevent colorectal cancer

• Walnuts, legumes, fresh fruits, vegetables, and good fat help promote immunity and prevent cancers.

What to avoid: 

• Refined white flour and refined sugars as they tend to cause a rapid spike in insulin levels and hence cause cancer cells to proliferate. 

• Microwaveable meals, sprayed with chemicals, artificial sweeteners.

Exercise 

Exercise plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy body and mind

• Studies have shown that regular exercise tends to reduce cancer risk, esp cancer of the colon.

• It also helps allay depression, fatigue, and anxiety, that commonly occur in cancer patients.

• Improves physical capacity of the individual.

• Improves quality of life.

• Does not exacerbate lymphedema.

75 mins of vigorous aerobic exercise - walking, cycling, swimming and 2-3 resistance exercises (lifting weights) each week will help you restore physical fitness and rejuvenate the spirit.

And that is what the theme of #WorldCancerDay prompts us to do...

‘I am, and I will’ is a commitment, a promise to oneself and to those we love, an acknowledgement of the fighter within, a manifestation of courage in the face of a storm...a challenge we have undertaken with the ‘Emperor of all maladies’.

In the words of author Siddharth Mukherjee,

“Cancer is an expansionist disease. It invades through tissues, sets up colonies in hostile landscapes, seeking ‘sanctuary’ in one organ and then immigrating to another. It lives desperately, inventively, fiercely, territorially, cannily, and defensively—-at times, as if teaching us how to survive.“ 

Here’s to the human spirit...

May it grow resilient enough to face the challenges in its path and strong enough to overcome them.

Packing for a day trip #SuperBloggerChallenge #Instacuppa

There are two types of travel junkies in the world
The spontaneous firebrands, who with their come-what-may attitude, believe in throwing themselves into impromptu trips, and those who like to be prepared and plan ahead for everything life and travel may throw their way.
When it comes to day trips, I prefer to belong to the latter category.

Having said that, here is a listicle of essentials that I would pack for a day trip.
What you primarily need to carry is a medium to large sized duffel bag that you can preferably sling over your shoulders. A backpack or a large hand bag may also suffice. Make sure these have zippers and at least a couple of compartments in order to to keep the contents safe and handy.

• Sunscreen - Absolutely essential especially if it’s summer. Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or more, depending on the weather.

• Medicine box - Don’t forget to pack in the medication that you are on, in case you are on any.. Also, throw in a couple of band aids, an antiseptic, an anti-diarrhoeal and an anti-emetic just in case of emergency. Saves you the trouble for going in search of a pharmacy.

• Snacks/munchies - Granola bars make for a great snack for road trips. They provide the required calories and are also healthy and nutritious.

• Travel thermos - For someone like me, who doesn’t like to miss out on her daily fix of health, traveling without regular sips of water or tea is unimaginable. More importantly, day trips do not guarantee time to stop and have the beverage you have at leisure. For that very purpose, Instacuppa's vacuum insulated thermos travel mug, with its sleek but robust design, temperature retention, and convenience, proves to be an excellent travel companion. I have already discussed how to make the perfect #Instacuppa green tea, and its benefits. Intermittent sipping on green tea will leave you feeling refreshed, hydrated, and rejuvenated throughout your journey. 

• Kindle reader/book - so that you can read that lovely book you are dying to finish.You can either carry your carefully thumbed physical copy of your current read, or if you like to carry your entire library along, then the kindle would be your preferred. However, now with the kindle app, you can also read on your phone. But this will only mean consuming phone battery a lot faster. 

• Phone - a must have to always stay connected even while on the go. Just in case you want to check your mail, send that urgent text, or make calls while on the go, 

• Camera - Depending on your photography skills,you can either carry a SLR, a DSLR, or a Nikon handycam. If you believe in real light packing, then you can also settle for the camera on your phone.

• Charger cables - for your phone and kindle reader. 

• A fully charged power bank - to charge your phone when it runs out of charge. 

• Sunglasses - to protect you against the harsh rays of the summer sun and also to add that added style quotient to your day-time look.

• Travel brochures - If you’re in a new city, travel brochures can be collected at the railway station, airport, and even at the concierge’s desk at the hotel you are staying.

• Itinerary - Make a short itinerary for all the things/places you want to see during the day trip, along with the distance and time it takes to reach there from base. Then number them accordingly according to location. Keep the itinerary handy so that you don’t waste time and fuel due to haphazard travel.

• Wallet - Always keep loose cash, in case of places that do not accept cards

• Keys - Home keys, because  wherever you go, you’re coming back home. Car keys, in case you’re driving.

• Tickets - If you have to switch a bus/train/plane.

• Ear plugs - to plug into your music and get away from the frivolous banter of chatty co-passengers. Sometimes you need your mind space.

• A spare tea shirt - For emergency situations of ketchup spills and baby vomit.

• Box of tissues - always comes in handy. Keep a box of wet wipes preferably. They are refreshing and smell real good.

• Hand sanitiser / lotion - to kill all the microbes that are traveling with you. 

• And last but not least, ID card and/passport - in case of emergencies, especially while traveling to unknown places. Also these are legit proof of your existence on the surface of the earth. So carry them along!

Phew! That's about everything you need for a safe day trip.
With these packed in your duffel bag, all you now need to do is sling it over your shoulder and head for the road.

Remember, adventure is out there!

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“Note: This article is written as a part of SuperBloggerChallenge2019 conducted by Healthwealthbridge.com, Allaboutthewoman.com and should not be repurposed, republished or used otherwise. The content herein is owned by the blogger. SuperBloggerChallenge2019 is not responsible for any kind of infringement caused.”

Chai and I - a love story! #SuperBloggerChallenge #Instacuppa

My relationship with tea goes back a long way. I think it was the Madhatter's tea party that first got me all curious. I must have been barely seven then. That was a time and age when children my age were forbidden from touching any kind of adult beverage. However, even as a child, I was always the curious sort and an early introduction to books had only managed to fuel this sense of wonder and curiosity in me.
I would watch the adults sipping on their cups of tea, while I listlessly nursed my glass of milk, sulking at the unfair privilege age allowed them.
Alice was allowed to attend a tea-party. Then why wasn't I? I had raised the argument with my father once. "Because we are not mad hatters," he had laughed at his own joke. I was being clearly outwitted.

Until one day, I decided enough was enough. I was clearly missing out on something. I couldn't wait until I was a grown up to quench my thirst for this forbidden beverage. It would take me ages to get there. And so, with dogged determination, I did what every manipulative seven year old would do in times of emergency; I tried throwing a silent tantrum.
I stayed mum all day, refusing to talk to anyone until my demands were met. I pushed away my glass of hot milk and with animated gestures insisted that I was served what everybody else was having. After several futile attempts at dissuading me, my mother finally gave in and agreed to offer me a sip from her cup, on the lone condition that I'd finish drinking my milk later.
I grinned. The silent tantrum had worked. The negotiation was done! I promised I would drain my glass of milk to the last drop if only she'd allow me to have a few sips. Although I was aware that it was clearly my mother who had got better part of the deal, I knew beggars couldn't be choosers. Besides I was afraid they would adjust themselves to my silence (and God forbid, even begin to enjoy it) had I to push my luck.

For a good many months, I obediently settled for sips of my mother's tea as part of our negotiation...until one day, curiosity (that was until then my forte) got the better of her, and she stealthily entered into the kitchen just in time to see me draining my glass of milk in the sink. My secret was out!
She stared at me in silence. My mind was already coming up with excuses. I knew my life was over. My mother would lecture me on the hungry kids of Somalia, her favorite topic, when I refused to eat the veggies on my plate. She would take away all my books and distribute them among my cousins. Or perhaps she would forbid me from having another drop of tea. Before she could say anything, I went in full drama-queen mode. I started to over-explain. I bawled. I protested. I told her I couldn't let the milk ruin the taste in my mouth...not when I was being allowed just a few precious sips of the chai I so craved.

She was still staring at me. And then she laughed. "We have a tea-junkie in the house" she told my father, narrating my shenanigans later that evening. They both chortled as I stood there, staring at them with my best puppy dog expression, hoping I had convinced them into allowing me to make the grand 'doodh to chai' switch-over.

The next day onward, I was given my own cup of tea. And that is how my journey with tea started...

While the other adults in my extended family frowned at my parent's decision to allow me what I wanted (tea over milk, to be precise), I acted eternally indebted to them, much to the point of suspicion, until I was completely sure they weren't going to change their mind.

As I grew up, I started thinking of myself as a tea connoisseur of sorts. No matter where I went, I could not make myself leave the place without trying the tea there. Hitherto, I have enjoyed various varieties, namely lemongrass tea, iced tea, kulhad chai, butter tea, tandoor chai, Darjeeling tea, Assam tea, oolong variety, and some other herbal infusions.

Thinking about it, I can say that my preferences too changed dramatically over the years.
During my childhood or pre-teen years, I loved the more milky, extra sugary type of tea. I guess this had more to do with the tea-drinker adult image that I was so fascinated with. During my adolescent  years, it was masala chai that became my favorite. Perhaps the spice level of that chai was more in tune with my feisty teenage years. Somewhere during medical school, my choice of tea changed again. Late night cramming for exams and a hectic schedule meant me downing cups of black tea to keep me up and about.
Cut to present day, I am me, more mature and level headed (or so I like to believe), much more concerned about my health and fitness than I was years ago. I am still a tea lover nevertheless. But over the last few years, my choice of tea has changed once again, this time to a more soothing cup of green tea.

When I first started having green tea, around three years ago, it took me a while to get adjusted to its characteristic 'grassy' flavour. But soon enough, it had found its way into my routine. Green tea, is not just more soothing and relaxing, but also possesses a lot of health benefits.
Allow me to elaborate...

What made me opt for green tea?

Green tea is loaded with healthy nutrients. It is rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, flavonoids, and catechins.

1. Oral health: Green tea helps maintain good oral health. The catechins in green tea inhibit certain bacteria responsible for bad breath. Also killing off the bacteria reduces the risk of plaque formation and cavities. 
2. Green tea possesses around 30-40 mgs of caffeine (much lesser than in coffee). Hence green tea provides you with stable energy without the risk of risk of muscle tremors. It also increases your concentration span and helps you stay focused. 
3. Green tea increases good cholesterol (HDL) and reduces bad cholesterol (LDL)
4. It helps regulate hypertension by lowering blood pressure.
5. Studies show that the catechins present in green tea decrease the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and Parkinsonism. 
6. L-theanine present in green tea helps you stay relaxed without being drowsy. 
7. The large amounts of antioxidants in green tea reduce the risk of cancer.
8. Green tea increases metabolism and promotes burning down of fats. Hence helps control weight gain.
9. Research shows that green tea decreases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and also increases longevity. 

Ergo, green tea is literally the elixir of life. Of course all the above benefits are based on correlation and should be supplemented with healthy eating and fitness habits. One cannot be reckless in all their habits and expect a miracle out of green tea alone. 

However, every time I traveled, I was rudely reminded of how good things in life are often either overpriced or simply unavailable. The cafes en route would either roll their eyes when I ordered green tea or came up with an exorbitantly priced pitcher of some ambiguous green-tea brand. So when I read about the vacuum insulated tea infuser bottle by #Instacuppa, I immediately made up my mind and placed my order at Amazon. 

With advanced temperature control, this double wall vacuum insulated design helps keep both hot for 1 hours and cold up to 24 hours. Also the vacuum insulted thermos travel mug is the perfect travel companion for those who want to have their regular green tea-fix even on the go, and be spared of judgmental looks and hole in the wallet.

The infuser bottle can be used not just to create infusions of green tea, but also to prepare infusions of coffee, fruits etc. Detach the steel infuser, and it can be used as a simple water bottle too.

How to prepare green tea using infuser bottle?

Of course, it is no rocket science.

1. Firstly, detach the infuser basket from the bottle.
2. Separate the long infuser from the short strainer.
3. Add one tbsp of loose leaf green tea in the bottle
4. Cover the infuser with the short strainer.
5. Put the infuser back in the bottle.
6. Add hot water to the bottle until it reaches just below the strainer level.
7. Cover the bottle and let it stand (infuse) for four minutes or more. The colour of the water changes almost instantly.
8. For faster infusion, flip bottle upside down for a few times. 
9. After four minutes, your tea infusion is ready. 
10. Pull the strainer and infuser off the bottle and sip on your freshly brewed green tea straight from the bottle.

And that, my friends, is how I prepare a perfect cup of green tea. 

I normally prefer to add a dash of lemon in my green tea. Lemon aids in the absorption of some of the nutrients in the green tea. 

So that's it, folks. Now that you all have read a slice of my love story and are privy to the secret of my energy (nope! it has never been a chocolate milk-drink that the ad mad world leads us Indians into believing), I will end this post by rephrasing a popular scrapbook line that most of us would fondly remember scribbling in each other's scrapbooks as kids.

"Drink hot coffee green tea. Drink green tea. Burn your tongue and remember me!"

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“Note: This article is written as a part of SuperBloggerChallenge2019 conducted byHealthwealthbridge.com, Allaboutthewoman.com and should not be repurposed, republished or used otherwise. The content herein is owned by the blogger. SuperBloggerChallenge2019 is not responsible for any kind of infringement caused.”

#MedicalMondays: Antibiotic resistance

Today, on the first Monday of the #MedicalMondays segment, I am going to address a matrer of growing concern in the field of medicine all over the world, and lately in India as well...antibiotic resistance.

India has seen a rampant rise in the use of antibiotics, over the last few years.
My house-help, a 28 year old female, often insists I prescribe her antibiotics, even for a minor cold or cough and is disappointed when I refuse to do so. In fact, why just her? My friends and relatives have also, in the past, been guilty of doing the same.
Sometimes, I myself, have been tempted to pop in an antibiotic without confirming the accurate pathology of a viral flu.

Ergo, the need to shine some light upon this topic of growing concern...

What is antibiotic resistance?
Antibiotics are a group of drugs that are capable of destroying or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
They are used to treat bacterial infections like pneumonia, TB, ear/throat infections, urinary tract infection etc.
Bacteria are constantly evolving inside the human body. Repeated use of an antibiotics causes these bacteria to gradually withstand the curative effect of that antibiotic, thus allowing the thriving bacteria to mutate and multiply in large numbers. Thus the antibiotic, which was once effective, is now ineffective and unable to fight the infection.

Why is it that we have become an antibiotic-obsessed nation? 
It is a common misconception that stronger the medicine faster the patient improves. And what ‘strong’er drug than an antibiotics to hasten the recovery from a niggling cold, or untimely flu, thinks the common man.
However, what is often not realised is that the effectiveness of any kind of treatment does not depend on the strength or dosage of the drug but on its appropriateness with reference to the ailment.

Let’s discuss this in a little detail...

Causes of Antibiotic Resistance :

• Misuse and overuse of antibiotics.
• Over prescribing of antibiotics
• Abrupt stoppage of antibiotic treatment.
• Lack of proper hygiene and sanitation.
• Poor infection control.
• Indiscriminate use of antibiotics in live stock
• Inefficient and slow lab tests. 

Misuse/overuse by patients:
Antibiotics are often taken for viral flu and common cold (self-medication).
Around 80% of common colds are viral in nature, and so an antibiotic in such cases would be ineffective.
It must be remembered that antibiotics fight only against bacterial infections and are useless against viruses.

Recommendations of antibiotics from relatives who mean well, self-proclaimed doctors, or the Internet should be discouraged. Consult a trusted medical professional for a prescription instead.

Misuse/overuse may cause the antibiotic to be ineffective in the future and hence should be avoided.

Another cause of antibiotic resistance is noncompliance on the part of the patient. 
Abrupt stoppage of antibiotic course on cessation of symptoms has been observed in patients. This kills the susceptible bacteria, allowing the resistant bacteria to mutate and give rise to the resultant increase in an antibiotic-resistant strain.
Hence when prescribed a course of antibiotic, it becomes important to complete the entire course.

Antibiotics are largely used as growth supplements in livestock to improve health of the animals and produce a larger yield and high quality animal products.
The antibiotic-resistant bacteria produced in the gut of these animals are then transmitted to humans through the food chain.
Also, 90% of antibiotics administered to livestock are excreted through their urine and feces into the soil, and act as fertilizers for plant produce; another means of entering the food chain.

Prevention:

• Do not demand antibiotics from your doctor. Also do not share antibiotics with family members without prescription, or save prescribed antibiotics to use for a later date.
• If you are adviced antibiotics by your doctor, take them as prescribed. Do not discontinue treatment until the course is complete. 
• Maintain sanitation and hygiene. Wash your hands. Stay as clean and bacteria free as possible.
• Embrace a healthy lifestyle. Eat healthy. Exercise regularly. This will keep you away from infections. 
• Keep a chart/record for vaccinations and take them as per schedule.
• Spread information about resistance and explain the dangers of inappropriate use of antibiotics among family members and friends.

The problem is global. But with judicious use and controlled management, we can prevent ourselves from becoming an antibiotic hazard.

Remember: when incorrect or in excess, even medicine turns into toxin. 

See you Next Monday...
Until then, stay aware, stay healthy!


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Disclaimer: Self-medication, with little/no prior knowledge of medicine may be harmful. ‘Medical Mondays’ aims to mainly create more awareness on issues pertaining to health and well being. However, the needs of every patient are different, and an online transfer of information has its own limitations. So please confirm with your consulting physician before attempting any drastic measure.