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

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.

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.

14 November is World Diabetes Day which provides an opportunity to raise awareness about diabetes as a critical global public health issue and emphasize the collective and individual actions needed to improve the prevention, diagnosis and management of the condition. This year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” underpins our commitment to reducing the risk of diabetes, and ensuring that all people who are diagnosed with diabetes have access to equitable, comprehensive, affordable and quality treatment and care. Join us in raising awareness, spreading knowledge and creating lasting change for all affected by diabetes. Preventing diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, involves adopting healthier lifestyle habits that can significantly reduce your risk. Here are 15 effective tips to help you prevent diabetes: 1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Aim to keep your Body Mass Index (BMI) within a healthy range (18.5–24.9). Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, increases insulin resistance. 2. Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise (like brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (like jogging) per week, plus strength training twice a week. Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and helps lower blood sugar levels. 3. Eat a Balanced Diet: Incorporate plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. A diet high in fiber and nutrients supports blood sugar control and overall health. 4. Limit Sugary Drinks and Processed Foods: Minimize intake of sugary sodas, juices, and processed snacks high in refined sugars. These foods can spike blood sugar levels and contribute to insulin resistance. 5. Choose Healthy Fats: Include sources of unsaturated fats like avocados, olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish. Healthy fats can improve cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation.   6. Practice Portion Control: Use smaller plates, eat slowly, and pay attention to hunger cues. Controlling portion sizes helps prevent overeating and weight gain. 7. Limit Refined Carbohydrates: Opt for Whole Grains. Choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat over refined grains like white bread and pasta. Whole grains have a lower glycemic index, which helps stabilize blood sugar. 8. Stay Hydrated with Water: Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Water is the best beverage for staying hydrated without added sugars or calories. 9. Get Enough Sleep: 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Lack of sleep can disrupt insulin sensitivity and increase the risk of weight gain. 10.  Manage Stress Levels: Try yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or hobbies to reduce stress. Chronic stress can increase blood sugar levels and contribute to insulin resistance. 11. Quit Smoking: Smoking is linked to an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues. Seek support groups or cessation programs to help quit smoking. 12. Limit Alcohol Consumption: If you drink, limit to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to blood sugar imbalances and weight gain. 13. Increase Fiber Intake: Beans, legumes, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Fiber helps slow the absorption of sugar, improves gut health, and promotes satiety. 14. Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Especially for High-Risk Individuals: Regular check-ups if you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors. Early detection allows for timely intervention to prevent the progression of diabetes. 15. Consider Regular Health Screenings: Annual check-ups including fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and lipid profiles. Early identification of prediabetes or high-risk factors can lead to proactive measures. Prevention is largely about lifestyle changes—maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and staying active. Small, sustainable changes can have a significant impact on your health and help prevent diabetes. Adopting these tips not only reduces your risk of diabetes but also improves your overall health and well-being. (Dr Shahjada Selim, Associate Professor, Department of Endocrinology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University)

Today is World Pneumonia Day, observed across the country on Tuesday, November 12. This year’s theme is “Let’s Become Active Partners in the Fight to End Pneumonia.” Various government and non-government organizations have planned activities to mark the day. According to statistics from the Directorate General of Health Services, 216,426 children have been diagnosed with pneumonia in Bangladesh over the first ten months of this year, averaging 709 cases per day. Last year, 204,412 children were affected by this disease, nearly all of whom had reportedly received government vaccinations for pneumonia prevention. Pneumonia is a severe inflammatory disease of the lungs, especially affecting children and the elderly during colder months. Doctors indicate that factors like malnutrition, air pollution, lack of vaccination, and insufficient antibiotics make children more susceptible to pneumonia. However, it can also affect healthy young adults. Pneumonia usually occurs when bacteria such as Streptococcus or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infect the lungs, causing them to swell and fill with pus or fluid, reducing oxygen intake and making breathing difficult, leading to inflammation. To prevent pneumonia, it’s important to wash hands regularly, take personal care, eat balanced meals, avoid smoking, and refrain from sneezing or coughing in front of others. Covering the mouth with a hand or tissue while sneezing or coughing is also recommended. One major complication among pneumonia patients is low blood oxygen levels (hypoxemia), which is a preventable cause of death, particularly among children. Experts advise that ensuring sufficient oxygen supplies in district and sub-district hospitals could reduce mortality by addressing this deficiency among children with pneumonia.

"Protein is one of the three essential macronutrients, along with carbs and fat," dietitian Christine Byrne, owner of Ruby Oak Nutrition in North Carolina, told Newsweek. She said that our bodies need all three macronutrients each day. "When your body digests protein, it breaks it down into various amino acids that all play important roles in the body. Amino acids are building blocks of your muscles, bones, cartilage, skin, hair, nails, and cells, so they're crucial for building and repairing all of these tissues. "Amino acids also support hormone function, healthy digestion, and oxygen transport through your body." Protein is particularly popular in nutrition and wellness spaces, as a satiating macronutrient that can help us feel full, fuel the body for workouts, help build muscle healthily, and impact our metabolism. Using Fruit for High-Protein Meals All the experts who spoke to Newsweek said that fruit wouldn't be their first choice for protein, but that it could help contribute towards daily intakes. Nutritional therapist and cookbook author Jenny Tschiesche said: "Fruit isn't considered a primary protein source, but the protein content can vary. If you're looking to boost your diet's protein content, some fruits are preferable." A fruit's botanical family could make a difference, she said. "For example, guava, from the myrtle family, is known for its protein-rich composition." And avocados store more protein and healthy fats in their flesh, she added. "Additionally, fruits grown in nutrient-rich soil often have a higher protein content," said Tschiesche. Nutritional therapist Rakhi Lad, of Healthology, told Newsweek: "While fruit offers wonderful nutritional benefits—like vitamins, fiber, polyphenols and antioxidants—it wouldn't be my first pick for protein." Instead, she recommended eating fruit with a protein source, such as Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, nuts, or chia seeds. Eight High-Protein Fruits The nutrition experts suggested some fruits with higher protein content than most other fruits. 1. Guava: 4.2 grams of protein per cup 2. Avocado: 3 grams of protein per avocado 3. Apricot: 2.2 grams of protein per cup of apricot halves 4. Jackfruit: 2.8 grams of protein per cup, sliced; a tropical fruit, sometimes used as a meat substitute 5. Blackberries: 2g per serving 6. Banana: 2g per large banana 7. Kiwi: 2g per large kiwi 8. Oranges: 1.2g per large orange "Guava, a fruit that's popular in tropical regions, contains 4.2 grams of protein and 112 calories per one-cup serving," said Byrne. "That's a decent amount of protein, especially if paired with a protein-rich food like yogurt." However, because of its high fiber content, Byrne recommended eating no more than a cup of the fruit "to avoid uncomfortable fullness." What Is the Most Protein Dense Food? Byrne also said that it was important to put things into perspective when it came to protein in fruit. "Most people should be aiming for at least 20 grams of protein per meal, and even the highest-protein fruit on this list has just 4.2 grams per serving," she said. "None of them should be considered high-protein foods, and you should be getting most of your protein from other sources, like meat, fish, eggs, milk, soy, nuts, seeds, and legumes." Instead, Byrne recommended choosing fruit that you enjoy and eating a variety, rather than deciding based on protein content. Tschiesche agreed, adding that fruit was still an essential part of the diet, just for other reasons, including as a source of fiber, "which helps maintain a healthy digestive system and aids in weight management." "Fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants necessary for overall health," she continued. "They also have high water content, helping to keep you hydrated. "Fruits provide various antioxidants, including vitamin C and beta carotene, which help fight free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic disease. They also contain natural sugars, offering a quick energy source without the crash from refined sugars."

Our goal to eat healthy often leads us to choose organic foods, even though they can come with a hefty price tag. But is paying extra for organic food really worth it? In Short Organic means food grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs Organic foods may be harder to find and have a shorter shelf life If you want to avoid synthetic pesticides, organic food is a great choice   We are the social media generation—hyper-aware and always connected. We want our beauty products to be chemical-free, our food carb-free, and our lives stress-free (though that last one might be a stretch). So, while health consciousness is on the rise, the one word we tend to overuse is 'organic.' If a product claims to be organic, it often goes straight into our shopping cart. But what does organic food really mean, and does choosing organic truly make it safer? So, what is it? The term organic food often brings to mind images of fresh, pesticide-free produce, but it's essential to understand what this label does and doesn't mean. "Organic" signifies food grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), relying instead on natural substances and methods like crop rotation and composting," Vandana Verma, senior dietician, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, tells India Today. Adding to this, Vaishali Verma, consultant - in nutrition and dietetics, at Manipal Hospital, New Delhi, states that organic farming emphasizes soil health, sustainable practices, and natural pest control techniques. Additionally, organic food production aims to minimize environmental impact and promote biodiversity. However, it is important to note that natural and organic foods are not the same. Not all natural foods are organic, even though all organic foods are natural. "Genetically modified organisms (GMOs), synthetic fertilizers, and pesticides are not used in the production of organic food, and certain guidelines for animal welfare are followed. But the label for natural foods is subject to less regulation. Generally, it indicates that the product is free of artificial coloring, flavoring, and preservatives; however, it doesn’t ensure the absence of GMOs or synthetic pesticides," adds Vaishali Verma. Organic vs conventionally grown food Vandana Verma explains, "Studies show that organic foods may have slightly more antioxidants, certain vitamins, and minerals than conventional options, though the difference is not consistently significant." According to Vaishali Verma, differences in vitamin content, like Vitamin C, are typically minimal between organic and conventional foods. While organic practices may enhance soil health, they don't necessarily lead to significant changes in mineral levels, as these are primarily influenced by soil quality. Factors like soil quality, crop variety, seasonality, and storage methods play a larger role than organic or conventional labeling in determining nutrient content. Additionally, conventional products are often shipped long distances, which can compromise freshness, whereas organic products are typically available locally and may retain more freshness. "A major difference between organic and conventionally grown food lies in the use of pesticides, which is significantly lower in organic farming with minimal reliance on toxins. However, organic food tends to deteriorate quickly due to fewer preservatives," adds Dr Archana Batra, a Gurugram-based dietitian. She mentions that organic food also comes at a higher price, making it less accessible, especially for lower-income households. "To maintain your health on a budget, I recommend focusing on whole foods and seasonal produce, regardless of how they are grown," she advises. Is it a scam? Dr Archana Batra believes that organic food is far from a scam. "It has a range of nutritional benefits due to its lack of synthetic additives or pesticides, which reduces toxin intake. However, with proper preparation and planning, both conventional and organic foods can be healthy," she says. Vandana Verma adds that while organic food may reduce exposure to certain chemicals, there's no guarantee it's entirely free from contamination. Both conventional and organic products have their pros and cons. Organic foods can be beneficial, especially if you're aiming to avoid pesticides. You might prioritize organic versions of produce where you eat the skin, like apples or tomatoes. However, if budget is a concern, focus on a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, organic or not. Vaishali Verma agrees, noting that organic food offers advantages like reduced pesticide use, improved environmental sustainability, and specific farming practices, though it may not always be significantly safer or more nutritious than conventional options. When to choose organic: Pesticide reduction: Choose organic produce grown without synthetic pesticides. Environmental concerns: Organic farming practices support sustainability and soil health. Animal welfare: Organic standards often provide better living conditions for animals. Personal values: Buying organic aligns with supporting local farmers and sustainable practices.   When organic may not be necessary: Budget constraints: Organic foods are pricier; focus on affordable, nutritious options if cost is a concern. Minimal nutritional differences: Prioritise a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables over strict adherence to organic food. Limited access: If organic options are scarce, conventional produce can still be healthy when washed properly.   Before you go organic A good first step is to read labels carefully to ensure that what you're purchasing is truly organic. When reading labels, steer clear of refined sugars or preservatives. Look for certifications like India Organic, USDA, or Jaivik Bharat, and inspect organic produce carefully, as it's more prone to natural blemishes and spoilage. Dr Archana Batra mentions that it's wrong to equate organic with healthy. Review the entire dietary composition, especially if you have health conditions like diabetes. Additionally, consider your budget, as conventional foods can also be nutritious. The best approach is to include a variety of whole foods in your diet. Remember the downside Organic foods can be a worthwhile choice for those aiming to reduce pesticide intake, but they’re not a cure-all for health. A key concern is the high cost, which limits access to organic food for many people. Organic foods also have a shorter shelf life, leading to more waste, and they are less accessible in certain regions, which limits choice. Be aware that organic doesn't always mean healthier; processed organic products can still contain sugars and unhealthy fats.