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Dark Chocolate: Healthiest Chocolate in the World
Rtv News
04 Dec 2024, 18:40
Photo: Getty Images
Chocolate typically gets a bad rap for being a sugary treat low in nutrients, but there's an exception to the rule that could have some positive effects on your health.
It's widely acknowledged that dark chocolate — a variety of chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa solids and minimal milk — is a better pick compared to milk or white chocolate.
This is due to its wealth of benefits from the cocoa bean itself. "The more cocoa solids a product contains, the more nutritious it is. Dark chocolate contains the most cocoa bean solids and therefore is the most nutrient-dense," Whitney English, a registered dietitian, explained to Today.com.
Nutritionists point out that the cocoa bean is packed with phytochemicals known for their anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antihypertensive properties. Additionally, dark chocolate boasts a higher concentration of flavonoids, compounds celebrated for their health advantages.
Dark chocolate is good for your heart and has no sugar.
Hence, experts suggest opting for chocolate that's over 70% dark when you fancy a healthier sweet treat.
"If you go for very high cocoa content, then you're less likely to get anything that's unhealthy. Pick something with the minimum number of ingredients on the label, and then you know you're going to get something that is really natural with very little taken away," recommended Professor Tim Spector, founder of ZOE.
In essence, it all comes down to cocoa content—the higher it is, the healthier your chocolate bar will be!
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Foods That Keep Our Body Naturally Warm in Winter
When the winter chill makes us shiver, eating or drinking something warm, besides cozying up in a blanket is our first instinct. Get expert advice on healthy options.
It's that time of the year when all we want to do is snuggle deep into our cozy blankets and keep warm.
In winter, our body starts craving foods that are warm and make us feel warmer from within.
During the winter season, it is better to consume foods that take longer to digest as the body temperature rises during metabolism. Fewer daylight hours also play a major role in cravings.
Here are the foods that you must consume in winter to stay warm:
Cereals
Start your day with oatmeal, porridge, and whole wheat preparations. Even though we often crave pizzas and plates of pasta, it’s better to eat them once in a while as they will not help keep our body warm and will only have a temporary effect since simple carbohydrates digest quickly. Moms-to-be and new mommies can have porridge or oatmeal preparations enriched with vegetables. Kids can be given a whole wheat sandwich or they can also have hot milk with cornflakes or rolls with egg or vegetable stuffing.
Soups
Soups are an excellent option as they contain a good amount of vegetables and keep our body warm inside out. Soups made out of pulses, gourds, and barley are good options and can also be a major meal with carbs added in. With a dash of spices like cumin, cinnamon, and ginger there you go as you have just had the healthiest meal of your day. These are very healthy options for moms-to-be. Lactating mothers can also enjoy soup as a midnight snack or evening snack. Kids can enjoy soups as an evening snack after their play time which will fill their tummy and at the same time keep them warm.
Fruits
Fruits that are locally grown during winter often prove to be beneficial. Bananas, strawberries, kiwis, apples, plums, litchis, papaya, custard apple, and pomegranate are some of the best options.
Bananas being a good source of magnesium help regulate the body temperature. Kids can be given bananas or dip the same in homemade peanut butter. Moms-to-be can avoid papaya and enjoy citrus fruits, pomegranates, and bananas. Lactating mothers can enjoy all the above-mentioned fruits as a snack preferably during the day.
Dry fruits and nuts
Almonds, cashews, and walnuts are very good sources of good fats and also help in regulating body temperature. Figs, dates, and olives are also good options as they are often used in countries that experience severe chills. Dates are excellent sources of iron and a combination of hot herbal concoction with a date will just be what you are looking for. Pregnant ladies can enjoy a fistful of dry fruits in a day.
Lactating mothers can also enjoy a fistful of dry fruits or have a laddoo made out of it. Kids who enjoy eating dry fruits can also be given a fistful daily. Powdered dry fruit mix can also be added to their milk or cereal mix.
Spices
Spices are a great way to maintain thermogenesis. As our Indian cuisine most often includes spices in the preparations, this easily becomes a part of our daily diet. Some of the superstars are ginger, cumin, pepper, sesame, and cinnamon. Ginger can be used in our tea, soup, or even during seasoning of any curries. Cumin helps in keeping your body warm for longer periods. Hence, be generous in adding cumin to your preparations. Cinnamon powder can be added to salads and hot chocolate or lattes as it enhances flavor and increases metabolism. Pregnant mothers can include spices in their diet soups or normal food preparations.
Kids can be given very minimal spices as they would not find the taste appealing always. It can be added to their meal preparations, soups, and milk.
It is better for lactating mothers to avoid spicy foods but they can definitely enjoy cumin water, and ginger in the form of dry ginger too. Cinnamon can be added to their milk, but do not overdo any of the spices while breastfeeding. Moderation is key.
Meat
For non-vegetarians, meat can be a part of the diet as it raises body temperature during metabolism and is an excellent source of iron and protein. Meat can be included in a pregnant mother’s diet if your doctor allows it. It helps in meeting your iron requirements.
It is completely okay for a lactating mother to include meat after a week of delivery. It is always better to start with soups and light curries. Once you are comfortable consuming it, you can slowly start including stir-fried or roasted meat in your diet. Meat can be introduced in a toddler’s diet after they turn 1 year old.
Honey
Honey standalone, or added in salads will also help in winter as they are traditionally known as a cure for cough and cold. Honey can be included in a pregnant and lactating mother’s diet as long as they do not have a history of diabetes. Kids can start having honey only after they turn 1 year old.
Hot Beverages
This is good news for hot beverage lovers as consuming them in winter warms up the body from within. Coffee is a great option as long as not consumed more than twice a day. Hot Chocolate, tea, or just a cup of warm milk will come to your rescue during this season. Pregnant moms should avoid caffeinated beverages until delivery. They can opt for haldi milk, decaffeinated beverages, soups, etc instead. Lactating mothers are allowed to have 2 cups in a day. Kids can have hot chocolate and strictly refrain from coffee and tea.
9. Ghee
Ghee helps in strengthening your immunity. It can be added to any of your preparations or you can combine or alternate vegetable oils with ghee in winter. Ghee can be used in food preparations for pregnant, and lactating mothers and kids.
You can have a combination of all the above-mentioned foods in adequate quantities in your diet during this season. Eat well, stay warm.
These 5 Myth Busters Can Ensure A Healthy Life For Kids
Parenting is not easy, and of course, is not a 9 to 5. It is an around-the-clock job. More often than not there are a lot of myths that surround parenting and a child's healthy life. But fear not, because we will burst five myths around parenting and your child's health, which will help you ensure a safe and healthy life for your kid.
Myth: It Is Okay To Feed Your Child Honey After 6 Months
Truth: Babies younger than 1 year of age should not be fed honey. This is because there is a type of bacteria called Clostridium that causes infant botulism, and it is found in honey. This can cause muscle weakness, with signs like poor sucking, weak cry, constipation, and also decreased muscle tone.
Myth: A Baby Walker Promotes Early Walking
Truth: While a baby walker can help babies learn to balance, it does not make them walk earlier. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has called to stop the production and sale of baby walkers, as it can often increase the child's dependency on a walker, leading to poor balance. There is also a risk of falling and causing severe injuries to the child.
Myth: My Child's Height Will Stop If He Starts Gymming At An Early Age
Truth: No, your child's height will not be affected if he or she hits the gym at an early age. Apar Jain, a health coach, gym trainer, and nutritionist explains that height is largely influenced by genetics, and growth occurs in the plates of our long bones, which remain open through adolescence and close around the age of 16 to 18.
"When approached correctly, gym training at a young age can support healthy development. Resistance training, when supervised and focused on form, strengthens bones, muscles, and joints. It can also improve posture," he explains.
Myth: Weight Training During Adolescence Can Stunt Growth
Truth: "No," explains Jain, "research shows that when done properly, weight training does not negatively impact growth." Rather, it helps in strengthening muscles, improving bone density, and supporting joint health. The key is, explains Jain, "a well-structured program that avoids excessive loads, focuses on technique, and allows for recovery."
Myth: Being Strict And Punishing My Children Will Raise Them Well
Truth: No. While, this strategy has been going on for generations, often passed down. Researchers say otherwise. Being harsh, rigid, and strict can often lead to bad mental health in your kids. Punishing can make them feel threatened and even rebel. Children do make mistakes, but parents need to explain to them what went wrong and how can they make it better. This guides them, instead of ingraining fear into their brain, which may lead to a loss of self-esteem, as they grow up.
Source: TN
World Diabetes Day 2024 / Theme, History and Best Winter Foods For Patients
Every year on November 14, World Diabetes Day (WDD) is observed to increase awareness of diabetes, a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) organized the event, focusing on diabetes prevention, health risks, and managing and living well with the disease.
Every year, the theme for World Diabetes Day shifts, frequently focusing on important topics like nutrition, physical activity, mental health, or access to healthcare for people with diabetes.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus, also known as diabetes, is a metabolic disease marked by consistently elevated blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a chronic illness in which the body either produces insufficient amounts of insulin or is unable to use the insulin that it produces efficiently.
The pancreas secretes the hormone insulin, which is crucial for controlling blood sugar levels. Blood sugar levels can rise and cause issues with the heart, kidneys, feet, and eyes if insulin is not functioning properly.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Diabetes symptoms can appear suddenly, though in type 2 diabetes, they may develop gradually, sometimes taking years to notice. Typical signs include increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. If untreated, diabetes can damage blood vessels in critical organs like the heart, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. It raises the risk for severe health issues, including heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and in some cases, permanent vision loss due to damaged retinal blood vessels. Diabetes can also lead to nerve damage and poor circulation in the feet, resulting in ulcers and, potentially, amputations.
How to Prevent Diabetes?
Adopting healthy lifestyle changes is the most effective way to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Recommendations for prevention include maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active with at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, following a balanced diet low in added sugars and saturated fats, and avoiding tobacco use. Through proactive lifestyle management, individuals can reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes and its related complications.
World Diabetes Day 2024: Theme
The theme for this year is "Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps," which highlights our commitment to reducing the risk of diabetes and making sure that everyone with the disease has access to equitable, thorough, reasonably priced, and high-quality care.
History of World Diabetes Day
The IDF and WHO established World Diabetes Day in 1991 in response to growing global concerns about diabetes as a major health concern. By adopting Resolution 61/225 in 2006, the UN formally recognized WDD and identified diabetes as a global health concern. The date, November 14, was selected because it is the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin with Charles Best in 1921. This finding transformed diabetes from a deadly illness to one that can now be controlled.
Significance of World Diabetes Day
To increase awareness of the effects of diabetes on people, families, and healthcare systems around the world, World Diabetes Day is essential. It emphasizes how crucial early detection, appropriate medical treatment, and lifestyle modifications are to the management of diabetes.
Additionally, WDD provides a platform for advocates and health organizations to campaign for policy changes that promote affordable and easily accessible diabetes care, especially for disadvantaged groups.
WDD is more important than ever in promoting a healthier lifestyle and teaching people about preventative measures to fight the diabetes epidemic, especially in light of the significant increase in diabetes incidence.
Top 5 best winter foods for diabetic patients
As the winter is near, here are some winter foods that are good for diabetic patients:
Sweet potatoes- For diabetics, sweet potatoes are a wintertime favorite because they contain complex carbohydrates that break down gradually, avoiding sudden blood sugar rises.
Green leafy vegetable- Rich in iron, magnesium, and fiber, this leafy green vegetable helps to improve metabolic health and control blood sugar.
Carrots- Carrots are good for diabetics since they are low in carbohydrates and high in beta-carotene and fiber.
Oats- With a low glycemic index and a high fiber content, particularly beta-glucan, which inhibits the absorption of glucose, oats make a hearty breakfast choice for chilly mornings.
Beetroot- A nutrient-dense winter vegetable that is high in fiber and antioxidants is beetroot. It supports cardiovascular health and lowers insulin resistance, both of which are critical for diabetics.
Diabetes in Bangladesh
World Diabetes Day observes Bangladesh with the globe aimed at building public awareness of the chronic metabolic disease.
The theme of the day is "Diabetes: Our Commitment to Good Health."
In 1991, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) declared November 14 as World Diabetes Day, and the day has been observed all over the world since 2007.
At the request of the Diabetic Association of Bangladesh, the Government of Bangladesh proposed to the United Nations to observe the 'World Diabetes Day' on November 14 which was later unanimously adopted by the UN General Assembly.
On the occasion of the day, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus issued separate messages.
According to the IDF, about 42 crore people in the world are suffering from diabetes as one in every 10 adults worldwide has been suffering from diabetes.
Diabetes patients are increasing at an alarming rate in South Asia and the picture in Bangladesh is dire.
According to the Bangladesh Endocrine Society (BES) currently, about 1.31 crore people are suffering from diabetes in the country making it eighth in the world.
World Diabetes Day reminds us of the growing impact of diabetes on global health and the urgent need for collective action to prevent, diagnose, and manage this chronic condition. In 2024, the theme 'Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps' underscores the critical importance of accessible, high-quality diabetes care, especially for underrepresented communities. The Government of India’s initiatives reflect a proactive, multi-faceted approach to diabetes prevention through enhanced healthcare access, awareness programs, and lifestyle promotion programs. By fostering awareness, providing resources, and encouraging healthy living, these initiatives aim to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and alleviate its long-term complications, contributing to a healthier future for all citizens.
Food Cravings Can Affect Mental Health
During tough days, we often find ourselves longing for comfort food. After heartbreak, we reach for something sweet, and at other times, cravings come and go unannounced.
Cravings aren't exclusive to women's PMS phase; men experience them too. Some even talk about sharing pregnancy cravings with their partners.
But what happens when you indulge in these cravings? Could your food cravings actually affect your mental health?
Why do we crave?
"Food cravings are closely linked to the brain's reward system, particularly involving dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward," Dr Shambhavi Jaiman, consultant psychiatrist at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, tells India Today.
Dr Jaiman explains that when we consume foods high in sugar, salt, or fat, they stimulate dopamine release, creating a pleasurable sensation and reinforcing the desire for that food. Over time, this can make cravings stronger, as the brain becomes wired to seek out certain foods for the reward they provide. Stress, emotional states, hormonal fluctuations, and even nutritional deficiencies can further trigger these cravings.
Additionally, Dr Sarthak Dave, an Ahmedabad-based psychiatrist, explains that food cravings driven by the brain's dopamine mechanism can be gustatory (taste-related), visual (triggered by food imagery), or olfactory (stimulated by smell).
Gustatory cravings are rooted in the memory of past taste experiences.
Visual cravings are influenced by appealing food presentations, especially prevalent on social media.
Olfactory cravings are sparked by the aroma of food, which can evoke strong memories and desires, often making us crave a specific dish even without seeing it.
Meanwhile, Dr. Bhavna Garg, senior consultant - dietitian, and nutritionist, Yashoda Super Speciality Hospital, NCR, mentions that food cravings are extremely common, with more than 90 percent of people experiencing them.
"Every person experiences cravings differently, but they are typically transient and often for processed foods that are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. Research suggests that males are more likely to crave savory foods, whereas females are more likely to crave high-fat, sweet foods," she adds.
Cravings and mental health
According to Dr Dave, food cravings can reveal a lot about a person's mental health.
He says, "Sometimes, having food cravings may also be a sign that the individual is doing well mentally. In psychiatric conditions like depression or anxiety, food cravings often diminish because dopamine levels drop. Even when eating enjoyable food, there may be no dopamine surge, reflecting a lack of the usual pleasure response. Therefore, the presence of food cravings can indicate better mental well-being."
However, food cravings can also be linked to eating disorders.
Dr Dave states that in binge-eating disorder, there is an intense, sudden urge to consume large quantities of food, often followed by voluntary purging. This creates a vicious cycle of overeating and purging.
Additionally, food cravings may contribute to obesity through emotional eating, where individuals eat to cope with negative emotions. In these cases, eating temporarily boosts dopamine, but once the effect wears off, feelings of guilt and distress return, perpetuating the cycle as the person believes it's the only way to feel better.
On the other hand, Dr Rajiv Mehta, vice chairperson, of psychiatry, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, feels that the mental health of a person impacts their cravings. For example, during a stressful situation, people show a preference for sweetened foods like chocolates and fried snacks.
Dr Mehta says that when food cravings become overwhelming, a person may overeat, leading to potential weight gain. This can trigger mental health challenges, including obsessive body focus, body shaming, body dysmorphia, and, over time, even anxiety and depression.
To this, Dr Jaiman adds that relying on food for comfort can lead to guilt, shame, and lowered self-esteem.
Should you indulge?
Dr Mehta states that if you constantly ignore your food cravings, it means you have self-control and recognize that food isn't the best way to manage stress.
However, indulgence suggests that you may not have found any other effective coping mechanisms for stress.
He explains that food cravings are one of the signs that mental health is being impacted. If cravings occur only occasionally, indulging is harmless; however, if cravings are frequent, it’s essential to look for other symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Meanwhile, Dr. Dave emphasizes the importance of finding a middle ground between giving in to cravings and knowing when to hold back.
If you always give in, it can lead to overeating, guilt, and potential harm to overall health. The key is recognizing whether a craving is driven by real hunger, emotions, or external influences. Ignoring cravings entirely can lead to feelings of deprivation, increasing the risk of binge-eating later.
By being aware and understanding what your body truly needs, you can make healthier choices.
Controlling your cravings
Dr Bhavna Garg shares some easy tips that can help you control food cravings:
Eat a balanced diet with a variety of foods, including proteins, healthy fats, fiber, and complex carbs. Doing so helps keep blood sugar levels stable and reduces sudden cravings.
Sometimes we're just thirsty, not hungry. Thirst is often mistaken for hunger, so drinking water can curb cravings.
Distract yourself with activities or chew gum. Engaging in an activity, like going for a walk or doing a quick chore, can help shift your focus away from cravings.
Plan consistent meals in advance. Having regular meals prevents extreme hunger and reduces impulsive snacking.
Get enough sleep to maintain hormonal balance. Poor sleep disrupts hormones like ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and leptin (the satiety hormone), which can lead to increased cravings.
Stress can trigger cravings, so engaging in stress-relieving practices like meditation or exercise reduces cortisol levels, helping control cravings.
Five Odd Facts About Trump's Surprising Lifestyle
Donald Trump was elected the 47th president of the United States on Wednesday, an extraordinary comeback for a former president who refused to accept defeat four years ago. With a win in swing state Wisconsin, Donald Trump cleared the 270 electoral votes needed to clinch the presidency. He also won Michigan on Wednesday sweeping the “blue wall” along with Pennsylvania.
Trump has returned with a promise to restore the 'American dream' and improve the country's economic conditions. Not many of us know about Trump's early life. Before entering into politics, Donald Trump was known as a real state mogul and the face of the Trump organization. He expanded the company to such great heights that he became a billionaire. Trump became a household name in the 2000s through his role as the host of the reality TV show 'The Apprentice'.
While he is set to become the 47th President of the United States, here's a look at some of the odd facts about Trump's lifestyle, we bet you never knew:
Trump is not a fan of pizza crust
Though Donald Trump and his former wife Ivana starred in a 1995 pizza commercial, awfully enjoying the pizza crust, in real life, Trump hates pizza crusts. Trump is known for his particular food preferences, often sticking to the Big 4 when it comes to American fast food: McDonald's, KFC, pizza, and Diet Coke. In an interview with Daily Mail, Trump has confessed he 'never' eats pizza crust.
Trump has a fear of eating at non-chain restaurants
Donald Trump's love for fast food is an open secret. Some reports claim he avoids dining at non-chain restaurants due to a fear of being poisoned, underscoring just how specific his tastes are. "One bad hamburger, you can destroy McDonald's. One bad hamburger and you take Wendy’s and all these other places and they're out of business. I like cleanliness, and I think you're better off going there than maybe someplace that you have no idea where the food is coming from," Trump was quoted as saying by CNN.
According to a report in The Times, Trump also never eats from a previously opened package, so bags of cookies follow him wherever he goes.
Donald Trump is fond of lavish residences
Trump was the fourth of five children of Mary Anne MacLeod Trump and her husband, Frederick Christ Trump. His father was a New York real estate tycoon and Trump was born into loyalty. He leads a lavish life. Having grown up in an affluent neighborhood in Queens, New York City, Trump owns several luxe residences in several parts of the world. His most loved abode is the Trump Tower, a 68-story skyscraper on Fifth Avenue, New York, according to TOI. He often stays in the penthouse.
Trump's love for golf
Trump and a golf course have almost been like an inseparable image for quite some time now. He has often been spotted at the golf courses, swinging it like a pro. Trump loves to golf. He owns 18 courses, most of them in the USA, but also Scotland, Ireland, and the UAE. His company also owns many golf courses worldwide.
Trump was sent to military school for misbehaving
Controversies and detours followed Donald Trump, even when he was very young. At the age of 13, Trump was sent off to the military academy, because he started misbehaving in school. Despite his affluent family background, he was expected to work the lowest-tier jobs within his father's company, reported TOI.
Cozy Winter Home Decorating Trends in 2024
Winter decorating is all about creating cozy, stylish interiors that blend comfort with thoughtful design. This season's trends focus on plush furniture, serene spaces, and earth tones designed to add warmth and comfort, turning our homes into relaxing retreats. Expect to see a rise in sustainable materials and nature-inspired decor that bring a refreshing, grounded feel indoors.
This year, hygge-inspired cozy minimalism infuses rich textures and wintery accents, elegantly paired with layered lighting and seasonal tablescapes for a warm, sophisticated ambiance. For a modern edge, smart home technology integrates seamlessly, adding both beauty and convenience. Read on to discover more of the 2024 winter decor trends experts say will make your space feel like the ultimate winter wonderland this season.
Plush, Cozy Furniture
One of the most relaxing winter activities is snuggling up in something cozy, and there's far more to it than getting snug in your favorite wool sweater. This season is about making your home feel warm and inviting, luring you in to spend hours by the fire, enveloped by your large, overstuffed sofa. "Many of the chairs and couches on Houzz have quilting and channeling that emphasizes their plumpness with extra-wide and deep seats that naturally invite a quick afternoon nap," says Mitchell Parker, senior editor at Houzz. "Speaking of napping, oversized upholstered headboards are also big right now, extending beyond the sides of beds and past bedside tables."
This winter, expect to see a growing emphasis on artisanal design elements inspired by nature. "Homeowners are moving away from machine-made perfection and opting for pieces that reflect the beauty of natural imperfections," says Nicole Roe of R. Nickson Interiors. "Whether it's hand-carved wood, textured ceramics, or artisan textiles, these items showcase a bit of grit and nuance in their finish, which people are drawn to."
Celebrate the organic warmth and charm of nature with organic shapes, subtle irregularities, earthy palettes, and natural wood, stone, and leather textures. According to Lynn Berney, co-founder of LTA Interiors, floral patterns, botanical prints, and curvy patterns and formations that resemble natural shapes are also making a comeback.
Seasonal Tablescapes
The best bit about winter is the shared moments around the table with your nearest and dearest. Seasonal tablescapes are a simple yet impactful way to celebrate the season and sprinkle some winter magic over the evening. "Fresh greenery, textured linens, and natural elements like wood and stone help create a charming atmosphere that feels festive yet timeless," says Danielle Chiprut, founder of Danielle Rose Design Co. "Incorporating warm-toned accents like bronze or brass in small accessories, such as trays or candleholders, will also bring an inviting glow to the table."
Accessories and Layered Lighting
The one thing all the interior designers agreed unanimously on was the wintery home accessory must-haves: Layered lighting and heavy throw blankets. Create a soft, inviting glow with layered ambient lighting, from table lamps, floor lamps, and wall sconces to cinnamon-infused scented candles and string lights. "This layered lighting approach adds warmth and makes the room feel intimate and welcoming," Roe says.
Then, drape cozy throw blankets in chunky knits or luxurious faux furs over chairs and sofas. "These tactile pieces not only add warmth but also give the space a plush, inviting feel that's perfect for winter," she says.
Tranquil Retreats
According to Pinterest's Autumn 2024 Trends Report, homeowners want to create dreamy, cozy corners with serene color palettes and moody lighting. Searches for “cozy fall vibes'' are up +90%, and experts expect this to carry into winter as people search for inspiration to create a peaceful oasis at home. The modest Japanese style has also risen in popularity, with increased searches for Japanese vintage art, furniture, and living room designs. With searches for "zen house" also up by 405%, we can't help but conclude that people are looking for inspiration to balance comfort, style, and tranquility in their homes, ready to settle in for the winter season.
Moody, Earthy Shades
"In 2024, winter interiors will be dominated by black and brown, rust, and oxblood, creating moody yet earthy spaces with a confident edge," Roe says. "These colors evoke a rich, grounded ambiance that feels dramatic and cozy, perfect for the colder months." Black and brown are two dark neutrals that, when paired, conjure a sophisticated and luxurious feel. "These tones evoke a sense of depth, grounding, and warmth, balancing modern elegance with natural earthiness." Meanwhile, the burnt orange undertones of rust evoke the vibrancy of the fallen autumn leaves, oozing warmth and blending perfectly with natural textures like wood and leather.
Make a statement with a dash of deep oxblood red. This rich, timeless hue makes for a striking focal point that evokes a sense of fearlessness and seduction. "It works beautifully on accent walls, furniture pieces, and textiles, adding a sense of opulence and intensity that makes it the perfect color for anyone looking to make bold choices in their home décor for the winter season," Roe says.
Sustainable Materials
Sustainability has become standard practice as designers seek to minimize waste and conserve natural resources. "Winter is all about heavy textures and prominent wood grain, which aligns perfectly with eco-conscious design choices," says Roe. Wool is a sustainable, renewable resource that is the perfect antidote to the cold winter and offers durability and timeless beauty. "Wool rugs, with their thick, nubby weaves, are ideal for winter warmth but can also last for generations, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste." Roe also recommends looking out for sustainably sourced and reclaimed wood furniture or accessories that reflect a return to craftsmanship and simplicity, creating a grounding, organic feel in the home.
Rich Textures
This winter, heavily embroidered fabrics in vibrant colors and intricate patterns are emerging as a major design trend, bringing an artistic touch and visual warmth to interiors. Cut velvets are also making a strong comeback, offering depth and comfort to interiors, accompanied by a rise in the use of dramatic velvet trims. "These bold trims add a touch of sophistication to curtains, cushions, and upholstery, creating a polished, high-end look," says Roe. Layering these textures creates a cozy, tactile aesthetic that is visually captivating and perfect for the season.
Berney highlights boucle upholstery as another winter standout texture. Paired with plush velvets, mohairs, and thick wool knits, the boucle contributes to an inviting atmosphere of warmth and comfort throughout interior spaces.
Smart Lighting
With shorter days and darker nights, winter decor calls for innovative lighting solutions that allow you to conjure a cozy, adaptable atmosphere. "Smart home automation is making it easier to set the mood with accent lighting," Roe says. Innovative technology allows you to set up a seamless and personalized lighting schedule to suit your daily routine. "This feature not only enhances comfort but also helps align lighting with natural rhythms, creating a peaceful start and end to the day," Roe says. Rechargeable, portable lamps were trendy summer decor for outdoor dining, and they continue to be popular as we adapt them to benefit us in the winter season. "Rechargeable lamps offer flexibility, allowing homeowners to move them effortlessly between interior and exterior spaces, providing a soft, inviting glow wherever it is needed."
Hygge and Cozy Minimalism
Hygge is a Danish and Norweigan word that describes a warm, cozy atmosphere and enjoying life's simple pleasures—in other words, everything we crave in the winter season. In interior design, this translates to adding warmth to your home through color and tactile comfort. "In 2024, hygge and cozy minimalism are evolving with more emphasis on texture and natural materials," Chiprut says. "Instead of stark minimalism, we're seeing spaces filled with layered, cozy textures like wool throws, boucle furniture, and organic cotton fabrics."
Dhaka's Air Quality Marks 'Very Unhealthy' Today
Dhaka's air quality was identified as 'very unhealthy' this morning (November 19, 2024).
With an air quality index (AQI) score of 246 at 08:20 am, Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh ranked 2nd on the list of cities around the world with the worst air quality.
India's Delhi, Pakistan's Lahore, and India's Kolkata occupied the first three spots, with AQI scores of 491, 232, and 226, respectively.
When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 101 and 150, air quality is considered 'unhealthy for sensitive groups', between 151 and 200 is 'unhealthy', between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', and a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents.
Dhaka's 'unhealthy' air quality persists
In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five criteria pollutants — particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone.
Dhaka has long grappled with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in the winter and improves during the monsoon.
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.
Dhaka's air is harmful to any person. Today, the three areas in and around Dhaka where the pollution situation is relatively worse are ICDDRB, Becharam Deuri, and Hemayetpur in Savar.
The main component of Dhaka's air pollution is the presence of very fine particulate matter or PM 2.5 in the air. Today, its presence in Dhaka's air is 31 percent higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) standard.
Source: UNB
