Lifestyle

World Chocolate Day: Seven Countries Where Chocolate Transcends Treats and Becomes a Cultural Journey

World Chocolate Day: Seven Countries Where Chocolate Transcends Treats and Becomes a Cultural Journey

National Times Bureau: Chocolate lovers worldwide are raising a toast or rather, a truffle to World Chocolate Day on July 7, celebrating a delicacy that has crossed borders, generations, and even entered the realm of cultural identity.While most enjoy chocolate as a sweet indulgence perhaps a dessert after dinner or a comforting bar during difficult days in several corners of the globe, chocolate is far more than just a snack. It’s woven into history, ritual, cuisine, and national pride.Hari Ganapathy, Co-founder of Pickyourtrail, shared with HT Lifestyle a glimpse into seven countries where chocolate isn’t merely eaten it’s experienced:Mexico: Once…
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Walk or Stand After Meals to Fight Belly Fat, Says Nutritionist

Walk or Stand After Meals to Fight Belly Fat, Says Nutritionist

New Delhi, July 5 — Stubborn belly fat, often the toughest hurdle in weight loss journeys, might finally have a simple solution, according to nutritionist Ruchi Sharmma, who shared an easy yet powerful tip in her latest social media post.In a post on Instagram dated July 3, Ruchi revealed a “fat loss secret” that requires no extreme diets or intense workouts. Her advice: stand or walk after eating.“Just standing or walking after a meal can lower your blood sugar by up to 30 per cent,” Ruchi noted, highlighting that even a brief stroll can be highly effective. “You don’t need…
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Monsoon Raises Risk of Skin Infections: Experts Share Prevention Tips for Healthy Skin

Monsoon Raises Risk of Skin Infections: Experts Share Prevention Tips for Healthy Skin

New Delhi, July 4 — As the monsoon sweeps across India, doctors are warning that the damp and humid weather poses significant risks to skin health, creating ideal conditions for bacterial and fungal infections to flourish.Experts say that persistent moisture in the air, combined with wet clothing and sweaty skin, can damage the skin’s protective barrier, making it easier for infections to take hold. According to data from the National Institute of Health, severe fungal infections affect about 4.1% of India’s population, while superficial skin fungal infections vary widely from 6.09% to as high as 61.5% in some regions.“Monsoon rain…
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FWICE Lifts Ban on Diljit Dosanjh After Bhushan Kumar’s Plea, Allows Him to Complete ‘Border 2’

FWICE Lifts Ban on Diljit Dosanjh After Bhushan Kumar’s Plea, Allows Him to Complete ‘Border 2’

Mumbai (National Times): In a major development, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has lifted its ban on Diljit Dosanjh, allowing the popular singer-actor to complete his portions for the much-anticipated film Border 2. The decision follows a personal appeal by producer Bhushan Kumar, who requested the federation to reconsider their decision. Diljit had landed in hot water with FWICE after promoting Sardaar Ji 3, which features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. This move drew backlash in light of renewed tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, prompting FWICE to impose a temporary ban on his…
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Chronic Stress Takes Toll on Brain and Mental Health, Experts Warn

Chronic Stress Takes Toll on Brain and Mental Health, Experts Warn

New Delhi, July 3: Living under constant stress can severely harm overall health, impacting the heart, brain, and mental well-being. Experts caution that prolonged stress keeps the body in a state of high alert, flooding it with stress hormones like cortisol. While cortisol serves a useful purpose in short bursts, continuous exposure can weaken the hippocampus—the brain region crucial for memory and learning. Over time, this may lead to difficulties with focus, decision-making, and an increased risk of cognitive decline.Chronic stress also fuels inflammation and disrupts communication between brain cells. Research has linked it to psychiatric conditions such as anxiety,…
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Eat Smart: Fish, Greens, Dark Chocolate Among Top Foods for a Healthier Brain

Eat Smart: Fish, Greens, Dark Chocolate Among Top Foods for a Healthier Brain

National Times Bureau, July 2: Food choices could play a powerful role in keeping your brain healthy and sharp, say health experts highlighting the importance of diet for brain function and overall well-being.A recent social media post shared insights into how certain foods can support brain health, emphasizing the benefits of including brain-friendly items in everyday meals.Among the top recommendations are fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support brain health and cognitive performance. Regular consumption of fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, or sardines may help maintain memory and reduce the risk of cognitive decline as people…
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How Hidden Gut Imbalances May Be Raising Your Heart Attack Risk

How Hidden Gut Imbalances May Be Raising Your Heart Attack Risk

New Delhi, July 1: What we eat each day can profoundly influence our heart health, yet many people unknowingly follow dietary habits that could increase their risk of heart disease. From hidden sugars and excess salt to processed and fried foods, common choices can silently harm the heart over time.Emerging research has revealed an intriguing connection between the gut and cardiovascular health. Scientists have found that certain bacteria in the gut can transform foods into a compound called TMAO, which is strongly linked to heart attacks. An unhealthy gut microbiome can also drive inflammation, raise blood pressure, and disrupt cholesterol…
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Bikerwear Swerves Into High Street Fashion, Blending Rugged Utility With Urban Cool

Bikerwear Swerves Into High Street Fashion, Blending Rugged Utility With Urban Cool

New Delhi, June 30, 2025 — Bikerwear, long rooted in the grit of highways and rugged terrains, has shifted lanes into the world of high-street fashion, becoming a staple for style-conscious urbanites. Originally crafted for endurance and protection during long rides, it’s now embraced as everyday wear, adding edgy appeal to outings ranging from coffee runs to evening concerts.While biker gear retains its rugged essence and practical features, it’s now recognized for its sleek aesthetic and streetwise attitude. Once seen purely as protective apparel, bikerwear has surged in popularity on social media and fashion mood boards, becoming a symbol of…
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Reciting Hanuman Chalisa Daily May Improve Heart and Mental Health, Suggests Study

Reciting Hanuman Chalisa Daily May Improve Heart and Mental Health, Suggests Study

New Delhi, June 10, 2025 — A recent report highlighting the psychophysiological benefits of the Hanuman Chalisa suggests that regular chanting of the 40-verse devotional hymn may contribute to improved heart health, stress reduction, and mental well-being. The findings, derived from small-scale medical observations and emerging alternative health literature, point toward a growing intersection of spirituality and wellness.The Hanuman Chalisa, composed primarily in the lyrical and repetitive Anushtup meter, has long been revered in Indian tradition for its spiritual resonance. Medical researchers and psychologists now argue that its rhythmic structure may influence brainwave activity, promoting synchronization between alpha and beta…
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Healthy Ramadan: Dietitian Recommends Weight Loss Drink for Iftar

Healthy Ramadan: Dietitian Recommends Weight Loss Drink for Iftar

(National Times Bureau), February 24, 2025: The holy month of Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, fasting, and self-improvement. While many enjoy traditional sugary drinks and desserts during Iftar, health experts suggest healthier alternatives to support digestion, energy, and weight loss. A Nutritious Iftar Drink Dr. Amina Hassan, a consultant dietician, recently shared a weight-loss detox drink recipe. According to her, this drink is a zero-calorie alternative to sugary beverages and can help shed 4-5 kilos when combined with a balanced diet.Ingredients:Cucumber slicesChia seedsCarrotsLemonGingerBeetrootHow to Prepare:1. Soak all ingredients in water for 2-3 hours.2. Consume during non-fasting hours for…
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