Popular breakfast cereals may not be as nutritious as their packaging suggests, according to a nutrition analysis examining their sugar content, overall nutritional value and health claims. The findings raise questions about whether some of America’s most popular breakfast options provide sufficient nutrients to support a balanced diet.

Ready-to-eat cereals remain a common breakfast choice in the United States. More than a quarter of children and adolescents eat them for breakfast on most days of the week, while approximately half of adults consume cereal at least once or twice weekly. However, their convenience and popularity do not necessarily make them healthy options.

Many well-known brands contain substantial amounts of added sugar, relatively little protein before milk is added, and limited dietary fiber. Some also include additives and excess sodium. Although packaging frequently promotes claims such as “heart healthy” or “high in vitamins,” these statements may not accurately reflect a cereal’s overall nutritional quality.

Portion sizes are another concern. The calorie count displayed on a cereal box typically refers to a recommended serving, but many people pour considerably larger portions into their bowls. As a result, the calories consumed can easily exceed the amount listed on the packaging.

A study published in May 2025 examined 1,200 ready-to-eat cereals marketed to children that were introduced or reformulated between 2010 and 2023. Researchers identified a concerning trend: sugar, fat and sodium levels increased, while protein and fiber content declined.

Efforts are underway to improve school breakfast nutrition. Updated US Department of Agriculture standards aim to gradually reduce added sugars and sodium while increasing whole grains in school meals.

For a more nutritious start to the day, alternatives include oatmeal topped with fruit and nuts, eggs, yogurt with fruit, or peanut butter on whole-grain toast. Those who prefer packaged cereals can make healthier choices by checking nutrition labels.

Consumers should look for whole grains as the first ingredient, at least 2.5 grams of fiber per serving—with 5 grams or more being preferable—and minimal added sugar and sodium. Choosing cereals with 150 calories or fewer per serving and shorter ingredient lists can also help. Shredded Wheat, Kashi Go Lean, Cheerios and All-Bran are examples that meet many of these criteria.

Breakfast cereal does not need to be eliminated entirely. Selecting products carefully, measuring portions and pairing cereal with milk or a protein-fortified alternative can help improve its nutritional value. A balanced breakfast should offer more than sweetness and convenience.

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Maintaining good health does not necessarily require expensive wellness programs or following the latest health trends. According to a Harvard Health Publishing article, adopting a few consistent habits can help people improve their overall well-being and reduce the risks associated with unhealthy lifestyles. The recommendations, published on September 24, 2025, were outlined by Dr. Wynne Armand, a primary care physician affiliated with Mass General Brigham in Boston.

The guidance focuses on five areas: practicing mindfulness, prioritizing sleep, choosing nutritious foods, staying physically active, and limiting exposure to potentially harmful environmental substances.

1. Make mindfulness part of everyday life

Mindfulness and meditation can help manage stress, improve concentration, and support better sleep. Constantly worrying about past events or future uncertainties can contribute to ongoing stress, which may affect the heart, brain, and sleep patterns.

Simple practices, such as paying attention to nature during a walk or focusing on breathing, can help people remain present. Box breathing, which involves following a controlled breathing pattern, is another technique that may help regulate stress responses and improve focus.

2. Give sleep the attention it deserves

Adequate, restorative sleep supports immune function, physical health, memory, judgment, and emotional well-being. Most adults need at least seven hours of sleep each night, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Maintaining a consistent bedtime, exercising regularly, limiting afternoon and evening caffeine, avoiding heavy meals before bed, and switching off electronic screens at least 30 minutes before sleeping can help improve sleep quality. People who regularly struggle with sleep or experience persistent daytime tiredness should consult a healthcare professional.

3. Choose whole and nutritious foods

A diet emphasizing vegetables, fruits, beans, lentils, peas, and minimally processed foods can support long-term health. Research links plant-forward eating patterns with lower rates of heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, and obesity.

Highly processed foods may contain excessive salt, added sugars, and other ingredients that can undermine healthy eating habits. Choosing fresh or minimally processed alternatives more frequently can help improve overall nutritional quality.

4. Stay active throughout the day

Regular exercise is important, but physical activity does not have to be limited to a single workout. Walking during meetings, taking a stroll after social gatherings, and incorporating movement into daily routines can help reduce sedentary time and maintain mobility.

5. Reduce exposure to environmental pollutants

Air pollution, microplastics, and certain persistent chemicals are widespread environmental concerns. Fine particles from pollution and wildfire smoke can enter the lungs and may affect cardiovascular and respiratory health.

Harvard’s recommendations include using appropriate water filters, replacing food-storage plastics with glass or stainless steel, improving indoor ventilation, and using suitable air purifiers when pollution levels are elevated.

Together, these five habits offer a practical approach to supporting long-term health. Consistency, rather than quick fixes, remains central to building a healthier lifestyle.

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Magnesium plays an essential role in maintaining overall health, supporting functions ranging from muscle and nerve activity to heart health and bone strength. However, despite growing interest in magnesium supplements, most people can obtain sufficient amounts of the mineral through a balanced diet, according to a nutrition analysis published on June 3, 2025.

The body relies on magnesium for more than 300 chemical reactions. The mineral helps regulate blood sugar and calcium levels and supports protein production. Recommended daily intake is approximately 320 milligrams for adult women and 420 milligrams for adult men.

Additional magnesium may be necessary for people with a diagnosed deficiency or certain medical conditions. Research has also explored its potential role in managing high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, migraines, insomnia, anxiety, diabetes, exercise-related muscle soreness and constipation. However, evidence supporting several of these benefits remains limited, with some studies reporting inconsistent results.

Magnesium levels can be assessed through a blood test. The typical reference range is 1.7 to 2.2 milligrams per deciliter. Low magnesium levels may cause nausea, fatigue and reduced appetite. Severe deficiency can lead to muscle cramps, numbness in the limbs and abnormal heart rhythms.

Potential causes include inadequate dietary intake, digestive disorders that interfere with absorption, kidney conditions, certain medications and excessive alcohol consumption. Older adults may also face a greater risk of deficiency because of dietary limitations, reduced absorption and medication use.

Fortunately, magnesium is found in a variety of everyday foods. Spinach and other leafy green vegetables, beans, nuts, whole grains, pumpkin seeds, soy milk, bananas and dark chocolate are useful sources. One serving of spinach, an ounce of almonds and a banana together provide approximately 190 milligrams of magnesium.

Experts generally recommend prioritizing food sources over supplements. Magnesium supplements are available in forms such as citrate, glycinate and oxide, which are commonly used for different purposes. However, supplements can cause side effects, including nausea and diarrhea, and may interact with medications.

Daily supplemental doses below 350 milligrams are generally considered safe for adults, but people with kidney disease may face an increased risk of magnesium accumulation. The appropriate dose depends on individual health needs and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

The key takeaway is that most people do not need routine magnesium supplementation. A varied, balanced diet can usually provide enough of this essential mineral, while people concerned about a deficiency should seek medical advice before starting supplements.

The post Magnesium Benefits and Risks: How Much Do You Need? first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

Adding more fiber-rich and fermented foods to everyday meals may support digestive health and contribute to overall well-being, according to nutrition experts. These foods help maintain the gut microbiome, a community of bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microorganisms living primarily in the large intestine.

The gut microbiome plays several important roles in the body, including supporting immune function, maintaining intestinal health and helping regulate inflammation. It also communicates with the brain through the gut-brain axis. Research has linked changes in gut microorganisms with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, although scientists have not established that these changes directly cause such disorders.

Diet is one factor that influences the composition of the gut microbiome. A balanced eating pattern that limits highly processed foods and includes adequate fiber and fermented products can help support a healthier gut environment.

Fiber is particularly important for digestion because it adds bulk to stool, softens it and helps maintain regular bowel movements. A fiber-rich diet may also help manage body weight, lower LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol and reduce the risk of conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.

Adults can estimate their daily fiber needs using a guideline of approximately 14 grams for every 1,000 calories consumed. Fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds and whole grains are valuable sources. Experts recommend increasing fiber intake gradually and drinking plenty of water to reduce the likelihood of gas, bloating, diarrhea and stomach cramps.

Fermented foods offer another way to support gut health. Products such as yogurt containing live and active cultures, kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha and certain pickles may provide beneficial microorganisms. Fermentation can also produce compounds and nutrients that contribute to the food’s nutritional value.

Some research suggests that probiotics may help ease symptoms associated with digestive conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease. However, results vary, and not every fermented food contains the same types or amounts of beneficial bacteria.

Although fiber and probiotic supplements are available, experts generally recommend obtaining these nutrients from food whenever possible. Supplements may be an option for people who struggle to meet their nutritional needs through diet, but they should not replace a varied eating pattern.

Small changes can make these foods easier to incorporate into daily meals. Choosing whole-grain bread, adding beans or vegetables to lunch and including yogurt, fruit, nuts or seeds in breakfast can help increase fiber and fermented food consumption.

A diverse, balanced diet remains an important foundation for digestive health, while research into the broader effects of the gut microbiome continues.

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Dog bites are a common public health concern in the United States, with more than 4.5 million incidents reported annually. Contrary to popular belief, many bites involve dogs known to the victims, including family pets. Understanding canine behavior, practicing safe interactions, and responding promptly to injuries can help reduce the risk of complications.

Why Do Dogs Bite?

Dogs may bite when they feel frightened, threatened, stressed, or startled. Some incidents also occur during rough play or activities such as tug-of-war. Warning signs can include barking, growling, snapping, and lunging, particularly when a dog is protecting its territory, food, toys, or resting place.

Children account for more than half of dog bite incidents and are at greater risk of serious injuries than adults. They may not recognize signs that a dog is uncomfortable or understand when to give the animal space. Adults can also be injured, particularly on the hands and face.

How to Prevent Dog Bites

Adult supervision is essential whenever young children interact with dogs. Children should be taught not to disturb dogs while they are eating, sleeping, caring for puppies, or playing with their possessions.

Before petting an unfamiliar dog, ask its owner for permission. Allow the animal to approach and sniff you before reaching out. Avoid approaching dogs that appear frightened, unwell, angry, or withdrawn.

If an unfamiliar dog approaches, remain calm and avoid sudden movements or direct eye contact. Stand sideways, speak firmly, and slowly move away when it is safe to do so. Do not attempt to chase, corner, or provoke the animal.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with mild soap and running water, then cover it with a clean dressing. Seek medical advice promptly, even if the injury initially appears minor.

Serious wounds, heavy bleeding, facial bites, or injuries involving possible bone damage require urgent medical evaluation. Bites from stray or unknown dogs also need prompt assessment because of the risk of rabies. A healthcare professional can determine whether rabies post-exposure treatment is necessary.

If possible, obtain the dog’s owner’s contact details and vaccination records. Medical professionals may also recommend a tetanus booster, depending on the person’s vaccination history and the nature of the wound. Antibiotics may be prescribed when the risk of infection is significant, particularly for people with diabetes or weakened immune systems.

When Is Home Care Enough?

A minor bite from a known, vaccinated dog may require only thorough cleaning and monitoring, depending on the wound and individual risk factors. However, puncture wounds can be deeper than they appear, so medical guidance is advisable.

Watch for increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or pus, which may indicate infection. Do not delay medical care if symptoms develop.

Prompt wound cleaning, appropriate medical assessment, and safe behavior around dogs can help prevent complications. When rabies exposure is possible, seek medical care immediately rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

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At least a quarter of Americans suffer from high levels of cholesterol or fatty acids in their bloodstream, a condition called dyslipidemia. Uncontrolled cholesterol levels increase the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, or ASCVD: a group of diseases that result from the buildup of plaque in the blood vessels, preventing blood from traveling smoothly to vital organs. This condition can lead to heart attack and stroke.

As a cardiologist with expertise in sports and exercise science, I routinely take care of patients who are interested in making healthy lifestyle choices to control their cholesterol levels, reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and improve overall health.

In March 2026, new guidelines were provided on how to treat dyslipidemia, by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. These guidelines, which were last updated in 2018, include findings from several new studies about how to more effectively treat – and prevent – this condition.

These new guidelines are important for both patients and doctors interested in improving heart health. Of note, these guidelines can help doctors personalize treatment to reduce each individual patient’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

What changed in the new guidelines?

Compared to prior guidelines, the 2026 update emphasizes the need to treat high cholesterol and fatty acids earlier in life and more aggressively in order to reduce the risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease later in life.

This push toward earlier and more aggressive treatment is based on the observation that there is a strong relationship between the duration of high cholesterol blood levels and the risk of cardiovascular disease over the span of a lifetime.

The new guidelines provide clinicians with information on how to use blood tests and imaging tools to help determine a person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Some important blood tests include standard lipid tests like levels of LDL (the “bad” cholesterol) and HDL (the “good” cholesterol), but the new guidelines also emphasize the importance of some newer blood tests like lipoprotein A (LpA) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB). The updated guidelines also recommend checking coronary artery calcium (CAC) levels, which older guidelines did not include.

Importantly, the guidelines encourage providers to use an online calculator called PREVENT-ASCVD, which uses several factors to determine whether a patient is at low, intermediate or high risk for cardiovascular disease. These factors include body mass index, blood pressure, diabetes history, kidney function and smoking status. The PREVENT-ASCVD calculator also provides an estimate of someone’s risk of cardiovascular disease over 10 years starting at age 30, as well as a risk estimate over the next 30 years.

Based on a patient’s risk level, the guidelines list several newer classes of medications that can be incorporated into a treatment plan for high cholesterol levels. Medications called statins – such as atorvastatin (Lipitor) and rosuvastatin (Crestor) – remain the standard of care for cholesterol management. Several types of additional medications are recommended if statins alone are unable to help patients achieve their cholesterol goals or if a patient experiences intolerable side effects on statins.

Why were the guidelines updated?

In the mid-20th century, physiologists identified two molecules key to cardiovascular disease: LDL and HDL cholesterol. Epidemiologists observed that high LDL was tied to an increase in heart attack risk.

In the 1980s, two physiologists were awarded the Nobel Prize for discovering the LDL receptor, a protein on the surface of cells that regulates how much LDL cholesterol is brought into cells. This foundational work transformed the way doctors thought about heart health and cardiovascular disease.

In the new guidelines, LDL remains the traditional marker for determining cardiovascular disease risk. Other biomarkers like triglycerides and total cholesterol also remain important to check.

However, the guidelines include two newer markers – ApoB and LpA – that may help determine cardiovascular disease risk beyond LDL alone.

ApoB is a chemical structure that can be found on plaque-forming particles like LDL. While LDL measures the mass of plaques in the blood, ApoB measures the number of plaque particles in the blood. In some scenarios, ApoB may more accurately predict someone’s risk of cardiovascular disease than LDL cholesterol, especially for patients with diabetes or metabolic syndrome. It can also be particularly useful for patients who have normal LDL levels but elevated levels of other lab values like triglycerides.

LpA is a molecule similar to LDL cholesterol in structure, but with an extra protein attached to it called apolipoprotein A. This protein is stickier and more prone to cause plaque or blockages in arteries than LDL alone. Elevated levels of LpA may increase a person’s lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease; the higher the LpA level, the higher the risk of cardiovascular disease. The guidelines recommend checking LpA once in all adults to help determine their lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease.

Finally, the new guidelines also provide information on coronary artery calcium scores. Obtained from a CT scan, these scores directly measure the amount of calcium deposits in the arteries around the heart. The greater the amount of calcium, the greater the risk of cardiovascular disease. The guidelines provide specific recommendations for managing cholesterol levels depending on the amount of calcium in a patient’s arteries.

These patient-specific targets are representative of the broader goal of the new guidelines – namely, to personalize treatment plans based on each patient’s unique risk profile.

How do the new guidelines affect treatment?

The new guidelines shift how doctors manage cholesterol levels toward earlier screening and more personalized treatment. They emphasize the importance of lifelong prevention strategies to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease.

The guidelines recommend checking lipid levels very early in life. Children ages 9 to 11 should have their cholesterol levels checked to identify any lipid abnormalities. Starting at age 19, adults should have cholesterol levels checked every five years. Adults at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease may also consider starting medications at age 30.

The guidelines also recommend what’s called a CPR model of cholesterol management:

Calculate the patient’s 10-year cardiovascular disease risk.

Personalize their estimated risk by considering other factors like family history, blood test results and existing conditions.

Reclassify patients with additional imaging scans.

Reassess treatment recommendations based on this information.

This approach underscores the importance of personalizing treatment decisions based on each individual patient’s risk.

What do the guidelines say about lifestyle?

It is important to remember that healthy lifestyle choices remain the foundation for preventing cardiovascular disease.

The American Heart Association recommends specific healthy behaviors it calls Life’s Essential 8 to help reduce cardiovascular disease risk. These include getting enough sleep, quitting tobacco and managing blood pressure, among others.

The new cholesterol guidelines emphasize the importance of modifying diet, including reducing the amount of sugar, refined carbohydrates, saturated fats and alcohol a person consumes each day.

The guidelines emphasize the importance of routine exercise. Specifically, they recommend 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity exercise, or 75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise throughout adulthood. They also recommend two days per week of resistance exercise.

Lastly, the guidelines recommend weight loss of around 5% to 10% of total body weight for patients who are overweight or obese to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

About the Author

Dr. William Cornwell is an Associate Professor of Cardiology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, specializing in comprehensive cardiovascular care across the entire spectrum of heart disease and human performance. His clinical expertise spans advanced heart failure, LVADs, heart transplants, cardiomyopathies, and HFpEF, as well as sports cardiology for elite, tactical, and recreational athletes. Partnering with Wilderness Medicine and the Altitude Research Center, Dr. Cornwell also diagnoses and manages altitude- and hypoxia-related cardiac symptoms. Additionally, he serves as Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation at CU Anschutz and provides pre-participation cardiac screenings for athletes and individuals embarking on new exercise routines.

Dr. Cornwell’s NIH/NHLBI- and industry-funded research investigates exercise physiology, cardiopulmonary function, cerebrovascular health, and vascular biology across diverse populations—from elite athletes to end-stage heart failure patients. Through precise resting and exercise testing alongside biobank analysis, his team explores how cardiovascular disease and peak conditioning alter human physiology at the cellular and subcellular levels.

The post How New Guidelines Personalize Cholesterol Treatment, According to a Cardiologist first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

India’s pharmaceutical and healthcare sector recorded a total of 78 deals valued at approximately $1.9 billion in the first quarter of 2026, according to a recent industry report. While the number of transactions remained stable, overall deal value saw a moderation due to the absence of large-scale transactions, indicating a more cautious investment environment.

The report highlighted that mergers and acquisitions accounted for 30 deals worth about $915 million during the quarter. Although deal volumes remained consistent, the overall value declined by nearly 40% compared to the previous quarter. This trend was largely driven by smaller transaction sizes and a shift toward more selective investment strategies.

Industry experts noted that private equity activity remained active in terms of participation but continued to focus on smaller investment sizes. Investors are increasingly prioritizing scalable and capability-driven businesses, particularly in segments such as digital health, specialised care, and consumer-focused healthcare services. This reflects a broader strategic shift toward long-term value creation and global competitiveness within the sector.

Domestic transactions continued to dominate the M&A landscape in terms of volume. Most deals were relatively small, typically under $50 million, especially in hospital networks, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. This pattern suggests ongoing consolidation within mid-market healthcare providers, particularly through regional hospital acquisitions and smaller pharma deals.

Private equity and venture capital investments showed strong momentum, with 45 deals collectively valued at $456 million. This marked the highest deal volume since Q2 2022 and represented an increase of around 22% compared to the previous quarter. A significant share of investments flowed into health technology, wellness platforms, AI-enabled diagnostics, preventive healthcare solutions, and digital care services, highlighting strong investor interest in technology-driven healthcare models.

Early-stage funding remained dominant, with pre-seed to Series A rounds accounting for nearly 69% of total deal volume. Additionally, around 95% of all transactions were valued below $50 million, reinforcing the trend toward early-stage and growth-focused investments.

Public market activity remained limited during the quarter. Only one initial public offering was recorded, raising approximately $18 million, while qualified institutional placement activity saw two issuances totaling around $500 million.

Overall, the data reflects a healthcare investment landscape that is becoming more selective, with strong emphasis on digital innovation, mid-market consolidation, and long-term strategic positioning in India’s evolving pharma and healthcare ecosystem.

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 Scientists have developed a promising low-cost blood test that could potentially detect multiple cancers and other diseases using just a single sample. The method analyzes tiny fragments of DNA circulating in the blood, known as cell-free DNA, to identify biological signals linked to disease. Researchers believe this approach could transform early diagnosis by making screening more accessible and affordable.

The test focuses on DNA methylation patterns, which are chemical markers that influence how genes behave and differ depending on tissue type and disease conditions. By studying these patterns instead of searching for direct genetic mutations, the test can capture broader biological changes linked to cancer and other illnesses.

One of the major innovations in this method is its ability to reduce background noise. Most cell-free DNA in the blood comes from normal, healthy cells, making disease detection difficult. The researchers solved this by filtering out a large portion of this background genetic material, allowing them to focus only on the most informative DNA regions. This significantly reduces the need for expensive deep sequencing and brings the estimated cost down to under $20 per sample.

In a clinical study involving more than 1,000 participants, the test demonstrated encouraging results. It was able to detect around 63% of cancers overall and approximately 55% of early-stage cancers while maintaining a high specificity rate of about 98%, meaning very few false positives. In high-risk individuals, particularly those with liver disease, detection rates reached nearly 80%, showing strong potential for targeted screening.

Beyond cancer detection, the test also showed the ability to differentiate between various liver diseases with high accuracy. It could even suggest the likely organ of origin, which may help doctors decide on follow-up imaging or diagnostic procedures more effectively. Researchers believe this could reduce the need for invasive tests such as biopsies in some cases.

Experts involved in the study say the technology could eventually enable a single blood test to screen for multiple diseases before symptoms appear. This would mark a shift from reactive treatment to early preventive healthcare. However, they also emphasize that larger clinical trials are needed before the test can be widely used in hospitals.

Although still in the research phase, this advancement highlights the growing potential of DNA-based blood testing. If further studies confirm its effectiveness, it could significantly change how diseases like cancer are detected and monitored in the future, making early diagnosis faster, cheaper, and more accessible worldwide.

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India’s health insurance industry has demonstrated steady expansion in the financial year 2024–25, with total premium collections surpassing $12.98 billion. The sector recorded growth of more than 9%, reflecting increasing demand for financial protection against rising healthcare costs and improved access to insurance services.

This upward trend has been fueled by greater awareness among consumers about the importance of health coverage, along with evolving healthcare financing options. Structural shifts in healthcare spending patterns have also contributed to the sector’s expansion, as more individuals seek reliable coverage to manage medical expenses worth millions of dollars over time.

A significant role in strengthening the industry has been played by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India, which has introduced several reforms aimed at improving efficiency and transparency. These regulatory measures have helped create a more structured and consumer-friendly environment for policyholders.

One of the major improvements has been in the claims settlement process. To ensure faster access to healthcare services, strict timelines have been introduced for cashless claim approvals. Pre-authorization requests are now required to be processed within one hour, while final approvals must be completed within three hours. These measures are expected to significantly reduce waiting times and enhance the overall customer experience.

The sector has also shown progress in claims performance, with the claims paid ratio rising to 87.50% during the financial year. This indicates a higher proportion of claims being successfully settled, boosting consumer confidence in insurance providers.

Grievance redressal mechanisms have improved as well. Out of more than 137,000 complaints registered during the year, nearly 93% were resolved within the same financial period. This reflects a more responsive system and better handling of policyholder concerns.

Overall growth in the health insurance sector has been supported by factors such as an aging population, higher coverage amounts, and enhanced policy features. These developments are positioning the industry for sustained expansion, as it continues to address the financial risks associated with healthcare expenses running into millions of dollars.

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President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday underscored the significant role of AYUSH systems in enhancing public health during her address at the National Arogya Fair in Shegaon, Buldhana district. She emphasised that traditional practices such as Yoga, Ayurveda, and Siddha have been supporting human health since the early days of modern medicine and continue to play a vital role in maintaining well-being. According to the President, healthy citizens are essential for a strong and thriving nation.

Highlighting the economic and environmental dimensions, she pointed out that India’s farms, kitchens, and forests contain an invaluable collection of medicinal plants and herbs. Promoting the cultivation of these plants not only provides raw materials for traditional medicines but also improves farmers’ incomes, enhances soil quality, and contributes to environmental conservation. The President stressed that supporting AYUSH systems simultaneously benefits people’s physical health, the economy, and ecological balance.

President Murmu noted that Ayurveda and Yoga guide individuals toward a balanced and healthy lifestyle, and these practices are gaining global recognition for stress reduction and disease prevention. She said people around the world are increasingly embracing integrative medicine, with Yoga and Ayurvedic treatments becoming popular for maintaining wellness.

The President also highlighted the importance of scientific validation to strengthen the credibility of AYUSH systems. She mentioned that the Ministry of AYUSH has established general guidelines for research, drug development, and quality control in accordance with international standards. Numerous initiatives are underway to ensure that Ayurveda, Yoga, and other AYUSH practices are recognised as reliable, evidence-based solutions to modern health challenges.

She expressed confidence that by combining traditional wisdom with modern scientific methods, innovation, and global collaboration, AYUSH systems will become more accessible and widely accepted. President Murmu concluded that these efforts will integrate traditional medicine into India’s holistic healthcare framework, promoting sustainable, effective, and culturally rooted health solutions for the future.

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