News / Author / Meenakshi Iyer

Meenakshi Iyer

Meenakshi Iyer writes on food, fashion, technology and health for Hindustan Times. She has worked with Indian Express, Mid-Day and Reuters in the past.

Articles by Meenakshi Iyer

Heart failure causes and symptoms, experts say even moderate drinking could be fatal

Heart failure causes, symptoms and cure: Heart experts say that even moderate drinking could worsen the condition for heart failure patients. According to a new study, alcohol consumption could worsen the condition of patients with a faulty version of a gene called titin.

To keep your heart healthy, experts say you should stay way from alcohol.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 27, 2018 09:19 AM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Weight loss, millennials are obsessed with it, yet many are still obese

According to the latest Google search data, weight loss searches have increased over time while those on obesity have decreased. The research, conducted by European Association for the Study of Obesity, suggests a normalisation of obesity in society.

lifestyle

Updated on May 26, 2018 03:08 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

What are the best fruits for diabetes? Your ideal diet must include these

Can a diabetic patient eat fruits? Are fruits good for diabetics? While there are many misconceptions regarding fruits and diabetes, experts help us decode the myths around the condition. According to experts, if you have diabetes, you should consider the glycemic index and the glycemic load of the fruits.

Fruits for diabetes: Experts say that when the glycemic load of a certain fruit is on the higher side, this means that there will be more fluctuation in blood sugar level.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on Dec 09, 2018 05:03 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Weight loss diet, whey protein supplements help women get lean muscles

Looking for the best weight loss diet to get lean muscles, ladies? You should combine whey protein supplements with physical activity. Fitness experts say it is a good routine to carve out a lean body.

Weight loss diet: Fitness experts say that whey protein is beneficial for women too.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 24, 2018 04:20 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Cure for migraine headache and nausea, include fruits and veggies in diet

Cure for migraine headaches and nausea: Include fruits and vegetables in your diet, and avoid coffee and alcohol. You must load up on good carbs.

Cure for migraine: Headaches can be minimised with just a few simple diet hacks.(Getty Images/iStockphoto)

lifestyle

Updated on May 25, 2018 12:45 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Walking and cycling to work can save your life, here’s how

Physical activity, including less vigorous forms such as walking and cycling, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, but despite this well-known benefit, levels of activity are still low in many countries.

Is cycling is good for you?(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 23, 2018 03:56 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Low carb diet, fitness experts recommend you eat these foods to stay healthy

Do you have enough carbs in the diet you follow to lose weight and stay healthy? Carbs may have been labelled the devil, but the truth is that it is all about what kind of carbs you’re indulging in that matters, say experts.

Carbs in diet: Good sources of carb include oatmeal, brown rice, sweet potatoes, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, quinoa and pumpkin.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on Jun 28, 2018 07:45 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Intermittent fasting can result in weight loss, but can be risky in the long run

According to a recent study, intermittent fasting diets could increase diabetes risk. These findings suggest that fasting-based diets may be associated with long-term health risks and careful consideration should be made before starting such weight loss programmes.

Is fasting the right kind of diet for your weight loss?(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 20, 2018 02:39 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Weight loss, here’s why fibre in your fitness diet is the best fat burner

Does your diet include enough fibre? If you’ve been suffering from fluctuation weight, constipation, stomach issues, it means you are not having enough fibrous food. Read on to know why it’s important to include more fibre in your diet.

In weight loss diet, fibre plays a very important role. You must ensure that you include enough fibrous foods in your healthy diet.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 17, 2018 09:16 AM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

CrossFit is not only beneficial for weight loss, but also helps manage diabetes

People suffering with Type II diabetes can benefit from participating in CrossFit.

Is CrossFit beneficial for people with Type II diabetes?(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 16, 2018 04:55 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Sleep better, faster: 9 steps to good night’s rest even if you have stress

Here’s how to sleep well even if you are stressed. From changing your mattress to avoiding computer screens before going to bed, follow these tips to avoid insomnia or sleep problems.

lifestyle

Updated on May 16, 2018 01:58 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Obesity during pregnancy, this is the ideal weight gain for mums-to-be

Researchers developed a calculator to help mothers-to-be understand the ideal weight gain during pregnancy. Obese pregnant women can suffer from a lot of diseases including gestational diabetes and it also hampers the child’s health.

Here’s the optimal weight gain for pregnant women to avoid obesity during pregnancy.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 15, 2018 05:11 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Yogurt helps cut down inflammation. Have a bowl everyday for healthy gut

The probiotics present in yogurt are extremely good for your gut health.

Is your daily pot of yogurt actually good for you?(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 15, 2018 04:31 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Gluten free diets can do more harm than good. Here’s how to stay healthy

What does gluten free mean? Is it supposed to be healthy? Is it low-carb? We bust some myths around gluten free diets.

Is gluten free diet healthy?(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 15, 2018 02:22 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Gout, the painful condition doesn’t increase your risk of fracture

A gout attack can occur suddenly, often waking you up in the middle of the night with the sensation that your big toe is on fire. The joint can get hot, swollen and so tender that even a small weight on it may seem a lot.

Gout is caused by the build-up of urate crystals in a joint.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 14, 2018 04:37 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Healthy diet, exercise key to keeping your stroke risk low, say experts

Stop smoking, eat a healthy diet, lower your blood pressure, and regular exercise. These four lifestyle changes, experts say, keep you away from stroke.

Exercise at least 5 days a week to prevent stroke.(Getty Images)

lifestyle

Updated on May 14, 2018 08:41 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Artificial sweeteners and diabetes, experts give final word on their link

Are artificial sweeteners beneficial for diabetics? The link between the two has always been under debate. Many diabetes patients are asked to swap sugar with artificial sweetener in their meals. But is it really as healthy as advertised?

If you have diabetes, here’s what happens when you swap artificial sweetener for sugar.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 13, 2018 05:04 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Girls, a missed period doesn’t always mean pregnancy. Here are 4 other reasons

A couple of irregular periods in a year is not a cause of worry, but if you see that it’s extending to up to three months, it is best to get yourself checked.

Missed your period? Here are some reasons other than pregnancy.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 09, 2018 04:56 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Osteoarthritis cure, one gram of fish oil every day can help relieve pain

Osteoarthritis pain can be managed with a few simple tweaks in your diet and exercise. A regular diet of foods rich in vitamin K such as kale, spinach and parsley, studies suggest, can deliver benefits to patients. Vitamin K is needed for vitamin-K-dependent (VKD) proteins, which are found in bone and cartilage.

Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent form of arthritis, can be managed with a proper, healthy diet.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 09, 2018 05:12 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

This is the healthiest cooking oil for weight loss, say dieticians. No, it’s not olive oil

If you are looking for a diet to lose weight, you must pick a cooking oil that has the least amount of saturated fat in it. Coconut and canola oils are your best bets.

When it comes to weight lose diet, your choice of the cooking oil plays a big role.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 09, 2018 12:53 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Arthritis pain, here’s why the cycle in the gym is your best friend

Find it difficult to climb stairs or stiffness in your knee joints? Here’s why you shouldn’t ignore these warning signs and get yourself checked for arthritis. And here’s how you can relieve the pain: The cycle in the gym.

Cycling is important to relieve arthritis pain, but it is even more important to ensure the right posture.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 08, 2018 06:41 PM IST

ByMeenakshi Iyer

Vaginal birth after caesarean, here’s what you need to know

For mothers who’ve had a c-section, the most common question is whether they will be able to attempt a vaginal delivery after a caesarean during their previous pregnancy.

VBAC or c-section, what’s right for your second pregnancy?(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 07, 2018 05:03 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Eggs are good for you. Yes, even the yolk, says this study

There’s always been conflicting information around consumption of eggs. However, eggs are one of the healthiest foods around. According to a recent study, eating up to 12 eggs per week didn’t increase risk of cardiovascular disease.

Eggs are a rich source of Vitamin D, Vitamin A and Vitamin B12.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 07, 2018 02:38 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

I have no pressure to look a certain way, says Parineeti Chopra on fitness

Parineeti Chopra proved her critics wrong when she opted to lose weight the healthy way. The actor likes to stay fit by doing different workouts such as pilates, dancing and Kalaripayattu (a form of martial arts from Kerala).

Two years ago, Parineeti shocked her fans with her dramatic weight loss.(Instagram.com/parineetichopra)

lifestyle

Updated on May 06, 2018 01:47 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Spend a lot of time at work? You could be at risk of this lifestyle disease

Do you spend hours typing on your computer or are you a gaming addict? If the answer to either of the question is yes, you need to know about carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a nerve condition that causes intense pain, numbness and tingling in your arms(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 08, 2018 12:53 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Weight loss food: Why the 5:2 diet, or intermittent fasting, is effective

The 5:2 diet, one of the most popular forms of Intermittent Fasting (IF), has helped millions lose weight and stay fit. Conceptualised by Dr Michael Mosley, this diet recently got a new version called the 5:2 Mediterranean diet.

Trying to lose weight? You could try the 5: 2 diet.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 04, 2018 08:34 AM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

High-intensity workout: 5 things to keep in mind if you are on a keto diet

Keto - a high fat, low carb diet -- is such a fitness buzzword that most people look at it as a way to lose weight fast. According to a recent study, a ketogenic diet can reduce athletes’ anaerobic performance. The research team found that after following the ketogenic diet, the participants did not perform as well at the exercise tasks.

Can you do keto when working out hard?(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 02, 2018 05:55 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Asthma in children could become worse if you live near a busy road

Asthma attack among children and adults could be caused by smog and pollution. A new study suggests that air pollution can be more harmful for children since they have faster breathing rates and their lungs are still developing.

Asthma in children is often aggravated by pollutants such as traffic fumes, or wood smoke.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 02, 2018 02:52 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Diet to delay menopause, eat fish and fresh legumes, avoid pasta and rice

A healthy diet which includes oily fish and fresh legumes will help you delay menopause, suggests a study. If you eat lot of refined white pasta and rice, the study confirms, will cause an early start of menopause.

A healthy diet, which includes lot of fresh legumes like peas and green beans, helps delay the onset of menopause.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 01, 2018 03:31 PM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

Fertility diet, tips on how to boost your chances of conceiving with food

Diet plays an important role while preparing for pregnancy and boosting fertility. According to a study published by Harvard Medical School, the best fertility foods are whole grains, healthy fats, protein packages, and even the occasional bowl of ice cream.

Healthy diet changes can help you get pregnant faster.(Shutterstock)

lifestyle

Updated on May 01, 2018 09:25 AM IST

Hindustan Times | ByMeenakshi Iyer

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Meenakshi Iyer

Meenakshi Iyer writes on food, fashion, technology and health for Hindustan Times. She has worked with Indian Express, Mid-Day and Reuters in the past.

Heart failure causes, symptoms and cure: Heart experts say that even moderate drinking could worsen the condition for heart failure patients. According to a new study, alcohol consumption could worsen the condition of patients with a faulty version of a gene called titin.

According to the latest Google search data, weight loss searches have increased over time while those on obesity have decreased. The research, conducted by European Association for the Study of Obesity, suggests a normalisation of obesity in society.

Looking for the best weight loss diet to get lean muscles, ladies? You should combine whey protein supplements with physical activity. Fitness experts say it is a good routine to carve out a lean body.

Cure for migraine headaches and nausea: Include fruits and vegetables in your diet, and avoid coffee and alcohol. You must load up on good carbs.

Physical activity, including less vigorous forms such as walking and cycling, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, but despite this well-known benefit, levels of activity are still low in many countries.

Do you have enough carbs in the diet you follow to lose weight and stay healthy? Carbs may have been labelled the devil, but the truth is that it is all about what kind of carbs you’re indulging in that matters, say experts.

According to a recent study, intermittent fasting diets could increase diabetes risk. These findings suggest that fasting-based diets may be associated with long-term health risks and careful consideration should be made before starting such weight loss programmes.

Does your diet include enough fibre? If you’ve been suffering from fluctuation weight, constipation, stomach issues, it means you are not having enough fibrous food. Read on to know why it’s important to include more fibre in your diet.

People suffering with Type II diabetes can benefit from participating in CrossFit.

Here’s how to sleep well even if you are stressed. From changing your mattress to avoiding computer screens before going to bed, follow these tips to avoid insomnia or sleep problems.

Researchers developed a calculator to help mothers-to-be understand the ideal weight gain during pregnancy. Obese pregnant women can suffer from a lot of diseases including gestational diabetes and it also hampers the child’s health.

The probiotics present in yogurt are extremely good for your gut health.

What does gluten free mean? Is it supposed to be healthy? Is it low-carb? We bust some myths around gluten free diets.

A gout attack can occur suddenly, often waking you up in the middle of the night with the sensation that your big toe is on fire. The joint can get hot, swollen and so tender that even a small weight on it may seem a lot.

Stop smoking, eat a healthy diet, lower your blood pressure, and regular exercise. These four lifestyle changes, experts say, keep you away from stroke.

Are artificial sweeteners beneficial for diabetics? The link between the two has always been under debate. Many diabetes patients are asked to swap sugar with artificial sweetener in their meals. But is it really as healthy as advertised?

A couple of irregular periods in a year is not a cause of worry, but if you see that it’s extending to up to three months, it is best to get yourself checked.

If you are looking for a diet to lose weight, you must pick a cooking oil that has the least amount of saturated fat in it. Coconut and canola oils are your best bets.

Find it difficult to climb stairs or stiffness in your knee joints? Here’s why you shouldn’t ignore these warning signs and get yourself checked for arthritis. And here’s how you can relieve the pain: The cycle in the gym.

For mothers who’ve had a c-section, the most common question is whether they will be able to attempt a vaginal delivery after a caesarean during their previous pregnancy.

There’s always been conflicting information around consumption of eggs. However, eggs are one of the healthiest foods around. According to a recent study, eating up to 12 eggs per week didn’t increase risk of cardiovascular disease.

Parineeti Chopra proved her critics wrong when she opted to lose weight the healthy way. The actor likes to stay fit by doing different workouts such as pilates, dancing and Kalaripayattu (a form of martial arts from Kerala).

Do you spend hours typing on your computer or are you a gaming addict? If the answer to either of the question is yes, you need to know about carpal tunnel syndrome.

The 5:2 diet, one of the most popular forms of Intermittent Fasting (IF), has helped millions lose weight and stay fit. Conceptualised by Dr Michael Mosley, this diet recently got a new version called the 5:2 Mediterranean diet.

Asthma attack among children and adults could be caused by smog and pollution. A new study suggests that air pollution can be more harmful for children since they have faster breathing rates and their lungs are still developing.

A healthy diet which includes oily fish and fresh legumes will help you delay menopause, suggests a study. If you eat lot of refined white pasta and rice, the study confirms, will cause an early start of menopause.

Diet plays an important role while preparing for pregnancy and boosting fertility. According to a study published by Harvard Medical School, the best fertility foods are whole grains, healthy fats, protein packages, and even the occasional bowl of ice cream.

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