Life Style

HbA1c is a crucial test that reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. If your HbA1c value exceeds 6%, it may indicate prediabetes or diabetes. Experts advise that people with high HbA1c should undergo five important health checkups every year to maintain overall health and prevent complications. Kidney CheckKidney specialist Dr. Arjun Sabharwal recommends an annual urine ACR (albumin-creatinine ratio) test to monitor kidney health. A normal value should be less than 30 mg/g. Values between 30–300 mg/g suggest early kidney damage due to diabetes, while readings above 300 mg/g require immediate medical attention. Eye ExaminationDiabetic patients should also get a dilated fundus examination. This test helps detect diabetic eye damage early and allows timely int...

Winter brings the joy of traditional sweets and warm dishes, but it also brings the challenge of hard jaggery. Breaking a stone-like block can be a tedious task, taking hours and tiring your hands. But now, YouTuber Leena from Leena’s Kitchen shares simple tricks to make even the hardest jaggery soft in just a minute. Microwave MethodThe quickest method uses a microwave. Place a large block of jaggery on a microwave-safe plate and heat it. For about 250 grams, heat for 1–1.5 minutes, checking every 30 seconds. Once slightly softened, remove from the microwave. The jaggery will be soft and spreadable, cutting easily like butter. Grater with a TwistIf you don’t have a microwave, you can use a grater. Lightly grease the grater with ghee or oil before grating. This prevents jaggery from ...

Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra and Himani Mor tied the knot in January, but the couple recently hosted their grand wedding reception, leaving everyone in awe. Walking hand-in-hand, Neeraj and Himani made a regal entry, but it was Himani who stole the spotlight with her elegant demeanor and traditional charm. Neeraj’s Reception in KarnalThe event, held in Neeraj’s hometown of Karnal, Haryana, was attended by prominent politicians, athletes, and officers. Yet, all eyes were on Himani, whose graceful presence and cultural sensibilities captivated the guests. She impressed everyone with not one, but two stunning lehenga looks—first in green, then in red—showcasing her poise and traditional values alongside her fashion sense. Stealing the SpotlightAt just 28, Neeraj is a favorite amo...

In many societies, women are often held solely responsible when a couple struggles to conceive. This was exactly the experience of Kavita Rastogi. Two years into her marriage, when she was unable to get pregnant, everyone—from family members to neighbors—started pointing fingers at her. The taunts, questions, and emotional pressure she endured reflect a reality faced by many women. Even today, society assumes that if a couple cannot have a child, the woman is always at fault. Many are unwilling to consider that infertility can also stem from male factors. Yet, male reproductive issues are a significant cause of conception difficulties, though acknowledging this remains a challenge in traditional mindsets. Facing Blame Alone“In my case, everyone blamed me,” Kavita recalls. “My husband...

Dark circles under the eyes can affect the overall appearance, giving a tired or aged look. But why is it so difficult to get rid of them once they appear? Dermatologists explain the reasons and ways to manage this common concern. Are Dark Circles Genetic?According to Dr. Chytra V. Anand, dermatologists, dark circles are caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors. In India, this problem affects nearly 8 out of 10 people. Many assume that simply getting enough sleep can eliminate dark circles, but this is not entirely true. Adequate rest may prevent them from worsening, but existing dark circles are unlikely to vanish entirely on their own. As we age, the skin under the eyes becomes thinner, making the underlying blood vessels more visible, which creates the dark, purpl...

At 58, Arbaaz Khan continues to openly express his love for his wife Shura Khan, who is 23 years younger than him. The couple celebrated their second wedding anniversary with immense style and romance, leaving fans in awe. A Stylish Entry in RedShura stunned everyone in a red outfit, exuding elegance and confidence. Arbaaz, despite a minor injury on one hand, held her hand tightly throughout the evening, showing that age difference does not diminish their chemistry. The couple looked perfectly in sync, walking together and capturing all eyes at the anniversary celebration. (Photo Courtesy: Yogen Shah) Bold and Classy Woolen EnsembleFor the party, Shura opted for a woolen outfit, blending style with practicality for the winter season. The bold red color added energy to her look, highl...

Parents often wonder when to use a nebulizer and when to give their child steam therapy, especially during the winter months when coughs and colds are common. Pediatrician Dr. Sandeep Gupta explains the differences, benefits, and proper usage of both methods. Nebulizer: Targeted Relief for LungsA nebulizer converts medicine into very fine particles, which are inhaled directly into the child’s lungs. This helps reduce inflammation and mucus production in the lower respiratory tract. Nebulizers are particularly recommended for conditions like asthma, bronchiolitis, bronchitis, and wheezing, providing relief in the lower airways. Steam Therapy: Comfort for Nose and ThroatSteam, created by boiling water, produces larger particles that only reach the upper respiratory tract—nose and throa...

Bollywood actress Diana Penty has been celebrating Christmas in her 100-year-old ancestral mansion with style and elegance every year. Her festive home décor over the past seven years offers a perfect blend of modern design and vintage charm, providing plenty of ideas for anyone looking to decorate their home for the holidays. Vintage Meets Modern (2024)Last year, Diana combined old-world charm with modern décor elements. Using antique wooden floors and mirrors, she created a vintage-inspired look. Placing the Christmas tree in front of a mirror enhanced the room’s brightness, while candles, pinecones, and indoor plants in simple corners added a festive touch. Silver and White Theme (2023)In 2023, Diana embraced a silver-and-white theme. The Christmas tree was adorned with silver rib...

Following the Bachchan family, the Roshan clan now has its own Aishwarya! Aishwarya Singh, bride to Ishan Roshan, captured hearts with her stunning bridal look, which has been trending across social media. Her radiant appearance in a traditional lehenga made her look like an ethereal beauty, reminiscent of a Bollywood diva. A Dazzling Wedding in the Roshan FamilyThe wedding of Ishan Roshan, cousin of Hrithik Roshan, and Aishwarya Singh was a pastel-hued affair. Aishwarya’s blush-pink lehenga, adorned with intricate golden embroidery and floral motifs, gave her a royal yet classy look. The voluminous ball-gown-style skirt was paired with a half-sleeve choli featuring a plunging neckline and delicate thread work, enhanced by sequins and pearl accents. Attention to Detail in Accessories...

For actors, being away from family is never easy. Jatin Negi, known for his roles in Ajay: The Untold Story of a Yogi, Body, Bell Bottom, and Code: Cash on Delivery, recently shared insights about his long-distance relationship and married life. From Engineering to ActingJatin Negi, an FTII-trained actor from Pune, initially pursued engineering but soon realized his true passion lay in acting. Leaving engineering behind, he made a name for himself in films, television, and theater. Despite the struggles many face, Jatin considers himself fortunate for the support of his family, friends, and girlfriend—now his wife. A Love That Began in the ClassroomJatin first noticed his future wife, Priyanka, during a lecture at his acting school. At the time, she appeared disinterested, sitting in...