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My daughter carries a fairly heavy schoolbag every day, and sometimes she comes home complaining that her shoulders and back feel tired. I’m not sure whether this is just normal after a long school day. Can carrying a heavy backpack affect posture or cause long-term back problems in children?

Dr Shakeeb Ahmed Khan |197 Answers |Ask -Follow

Physiotherapist - Answered on Oct 24, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 22, 2026

Ans: Dear Madam / Sir. Thank you for your query. Consistently carrying heavy bag can strain a growing spine and encourage her to lean forward, which may contribute to postural changes and shoulder or back discomfort over time. It is advisable to worn the bag on both shoulders and reduce the weight of the bag. Ideally children should carry the weight upto 15 % of body weight. E.g. If Child weighs 20 Kg then bag weight must not be 3 kg. I would request you to speak to school authorities also for reducing the weight .

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Question by Gopal - Aug 05, 2026

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Physiotherapist - Answered on Oct 24, 2026

Dear Doc, My 12 year old Son is mild Autistic. He massages his own palms and feets very frequently. Is this due to sensory issue or anxiety? This looks very embarrassing when he does this in public. Is there any medicine to stop this habit? Please help!

Ans: Hi Gopal. Thank you for your query. I would reply as a Physiotherapist who works with Children with neurodevelopmental disability. I want to assure that your son is not doing this to embarrass you. Many children with Autism use repetitive touch, pressure, or movement to regulate themselves. It gives calming tactile and proprioceptive input or it can also be anxiety-related in crowds, transitions, or noisy places. It may be both. Regarding medicine , I would not advise . However the right professional will be Child Psychiatrist , pediatric neurologist or developmental pediatrician.Also I would request to maintain log or record of when it happens, duration, trigger factor and what happened after that . You can also provide him with squeeze ball , foot roller , putty or fidget toys. I would say review the situation with your doctor if it leads to skin damage or self harm. Please understand and meet the need , not erase the behavior

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My 5-year-old son has a habit of walking on his toes instead of placing his entire foot on the ground. Initially, we thought it was just a playful habit that he would eventually outgrow, but I've noticed that he does it quite often, even when walking around the house normally. When I remind him, he can walk with his feet flat, but after some time he goes back to walking on his toes. A relative mentioned that this could sometimes be related to tight calf muscles or developmental issues, which has made me a little concerned. Should we get him examined? Could it affect his posture or walking pattern in the long run?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 23, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 21, 2026

Ans: Yes please consult a physiotherapist

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My daughter has been diagnosed with Rett syndrome and felt worried as I have read that this condition can affect speech, movement and daily activities. I want to explore every possible way to improve her quality of life. Are there any specialised hospitals or paediatric neurologists in India who treat Rett syndrome, and what options are available, including medicines, physiotherapy, speech therapy and other supportive treatments that could help her?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 23, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 21, 2026

Ans: Hinduja hospital Mahim has a pediatric neurology department
SRCC hospital and Wadia hospital are other options in Mumbai

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I have crooked lower teeth since I was 13, but they are healthy. Food often gets stuck between them, and I have to clean them frequently. My dentist recently suggested that I undergo an alignment procedure to correct their position. I would like to know whether this is necessary if the teeth are otherwise healthy, what the risks and benefits are, and if there are any non-surgical alternatives I should consider.

Dentist - Answered on Oct 23, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 15, 2026

Ans: Hello
Alignment procedures (referred to as orthodontic treatment) are not necessary except if you have a speech problem, or have difficulty in effectively chewing your food. The other reason to seek treatment is, of course, to improve your appearance.
The food lodgement you speak of is likely to get worse as you grow older.
Apart from the obvious cosmetic improvement, orthodontic alignment will make it easier for you to brush your teeth and thus prevent other dental problems which could arise later due to inadequate cleaning.
Orthodontic treatment is fundamentally non-surgical in nature.
Your orthodontist, after a thorough evaluation can suggest the best possible course of action and help you choose between clear aligners or traditional braces

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My age is 50. Suddenly my gums in the left side jaw area is paining and have become slightly red. While chewing I don't have any discomfort but while brushing it is very painful. What shall I do?

Dentist - Answered on Oct 22, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - May 07, 2026

Ans: Hello
You quite likely have mild gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). Gingivitis is more common than people realise. And, often, in the early stages there are no symptoms hence it gets neglected. The most common symptoms of gingivitis are bleeding gums or pain or a burning sensation on contact with spicy food.
Gingivitis is very easy to treat. Especially if treatment is sought in the early stages.
Please consult your dentist for a proper evaluation and treatment

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I've noticed some enlargement around my chest that looks like gynecomastia, and it has started making me self-conscious, especially when wearing fitted T-shirts or going swimming. I've come across treatments ranging from weight loss and medication to procedures such as liposuction or gland removal, but I'm confused about when each option is actually appropriate. I'd also like to understand whether this is something that can improve on its own or whether treatment is usually needed once it has been present for some time.

Plastic-Aesthetic Surgeon, Emergency Care Consultant - Answered on Oct 16, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 06, 2026

Ans: There is only one treatment for gynacomastia which is a surgery called liposuction. It is very safe surgery.

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I see people getting different kinds of peels at skin clinics, and some seem to have very little peeling or downtime while others require several days of recovery. If someone is considering a peel for the first time, how to assess the skin and choose the appropriate peel, and how many sessions would typically be needed before seeing a noticeable improvement?

Plastic-Aesthetic Surgeon, Emergency Care Consultant - Answered on Oct 16, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 06, 2026

Ans: For first time peeling, the peeling has to start with very low strength.
The plastic surgeon or the dermatologist will guide you.
please don't experiment yourself

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My child has started asking me questions about body changes, puberty and where babies come from after hearing conversations among classmates. I want to answer honestly rather than make these topics feel embarrassing or forbidden, but I’m unsure how much information is appropriate at this age. When should parents begin age-appropriate conversations about puberty, body boundaries and personal safety, and how can we explain these subjects in a way that builds trust without confusing or frightening children?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 15, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 15, 2026

Ans: It depends on the child's age. Give age appropriate answers, always the truth but not too much information whichay overwhelm a small child. Ask what the child has heard and then decide how to give a truthful answer

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I’m a little confused about which approach is actually healthier. How much water should children drink daily, and is it better to drink small amounts frequently or larger quantities at once? Can drinking too much water in a short period also be harmful for children?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 15, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 15, 2026

Ans: It is upnto the child. Offer water frequently and let the child decide. Water is always preferred to juices

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My child was born with a cleft lip, I think that is what it is called. I want to get it treated so that she can live a normal life like other children. I am also worried about how she may look as she grows up and whether other children might make fun of her. Doctor, can you please guide me on what treatment is available and what I should do for my child?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 14, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 14, 2026

Ans: There are surgeons who deal with cleft lip and palate. Please ask your pediatrician to refer you to one in your area

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My 12-year-old daughter sometimes complains of stomach pain just before going to school, but on holidays she seems perfectly fine. Initially, I thought she might be making excuses to avoid school, but I’m beginning to wonder whether it could be related to her eating habits, digestion or even exam stress. I don’t want to dismiss her complaints, but I also don’t want to worry unnecessarily. How can parents distinguish between common digestive issues and stomach pain that may be linked to anxiety or other underlying problems?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 12, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 12, 2026

Ans: Ensure a balanced diet with good fibre intake, reduce junk food intake. Most kids don't have breakfast in the morning which increases chances of stomach pain. So make sure she eats before she goes to school. Irregular bowel movement also can lead to discomfort. If these measures don't help consult your pediatrician to see ifany tests are required

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A friend recently told me that children who spend too much time indoors may develop vitamin D deficiency, even if they eat reasonably well. What are the practical ways to ensure they get enough vitamin D for healthy bones and growth without giving unnecessary supplements?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 12, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 12, 2026

Ans: Regular outdoor activities in natural sunlight for about an hour every day

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Is teeth whitening bad for your teeth? or does it affect the enamel and cause sensitivity later? I do it twice a year.

Dentist - Answered on Oct 12, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 23, 2026

Ans: Hello
Teeth whitening (Bleaching) is NOT harmful so long as it's done judiciously and professionally.
Bleaching involves the use of chemicals, like peroxides, which can damage your enamel or gums if used recklessly or overdone.
Please do it in consultation with your dentist. Try not to overdo it.

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Question by Priyabrataa - Jun 22, 2026

Dentist - Answered on Oct 12, 2026

I brush my teeth twice in the day, also clean my mouth with salt water but since the past few days I feel like bad smell coming from my mouth, why? How can I cure it? Any home remedies?

Ans: Hello
Please consult your dentist to rule out presence of tartar or gum infection. Please note that brushing technique is very important. And if that is ineffective, then there could be food debris still remaining after brushing.
Your dentist may recommend a professional cleaning if necessary. Or medication if your gums are infected.
Although poor oral hygiene is the primary cause of halitosis (bad breath) it is certainly not the only cause.
Respiratory and digestive disorders, for instance, are also known to cause bad breath. So all these causative factors need to be ruled out one by one. I suggest you consult your dentist first.

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I wanted to understand something about the vitamin K injection that is given to newborn babies soon after birth. Many routine things happening in the hospital after delivery - checking the baby’s weight, height and breathing, giving vaccinations and doing the first health examination. But when the doctor mentioned a vitamin K shot for the baby, I realised I actually don’t know why it is needed. Is this shot really necessary for every newborn, and are there any side effects or risks that parents should know about?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 07, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 06, 2026

Ans: Yes it is essential as Vit K is not transferred well through the placenta or breast milk. Vit k is produced in our bodies by the bacteria in our intestine. A newborn baby has no significant bacteria in the intestine so unless supplemented, he or she will be deficient. This will impair normal clotting process and can sometimes lead to life threatening bleeding. A simple injection provides it till the bacteria can grow and start producing it

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Is it possible for the mother to have skin-to-skin contact with her newborn soon after the birth, provided both the mother and baby are healthy and stable? Does holding the baby close immediately help with bonding or make breastfeeding easier, and are there any situations after a C-section when skin-to-skin contact needs to be delayed?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 07, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 06, 2026

Ans: Yes, skin to skin contact helps the bonding, breast feeding and expulsion of placenta. Only if the condition of the mother or baby is serious and needs other treatment, then this is not done

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I'm a little confused about the different types of baby formula available. I understand that there are formulas made from cow's milk, soy-based formulas and some specialised or hypoallergenic formulas where the ingredients are broken down to make them easier for babies to digest. If most babies can do well with regular cow's milk-based or soy formula, when would a baby actually need a specialised formula? Is it necessary only for certain medical or digestive problems, and is the more expensive formula always better for the baby?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 07, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 06, 2026

Ans: Mothers milk is the best for the baby. Different infant formulas are prescribed depending on special needs of a baby.

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My 11 years daughter sometimes catches a cold or develops a cough when the weather changes, and as a parent, I often find myself wondering whether I should give her medicine immediately or wait for a day or two to see if she gets better naturally. I also hear different opinions from family members about giving children vitamin supplements to improve their immunity. I don’t want to give her unnecessary medicines, but I also don’t want to overlook something important. Is there any supplements children need routinely, or is a balanced diet usually enough?

Paediatrician - Answered on Oct 04, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 01, 2026

Ans: As per latest recommendation children need weekly iron supplements. When she contracts a cold, vitamin C supplement could help and is not harmful. A balanced diet, adequate physical exercise and good sleep builds immunity and the ability to fight off infections

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A friend of mine exercises regularly, eats reasonably well and is generally healthy, but she still has a small amount of stubborn fat around her stomach that hasn’t reduced much despite her efforts. She has been thinking about liposuction because she keeps seeing before-and-after photos online and people describe it as a quick way to get a more defined body shape. She is not looking to lose a large amount of weight, but mainly wants to change the shape of one particular area that doesn’t seem to respond to exercise. We’re a little confused about what liposuction actually does. Is it primarily a weight-loss procedure, or is it meant more for removing localized fat deposits and improving body contours?

Plastic-Aesthetic Surgeon, Emergency Care Consultant - Answered on Sep 28, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 28, 2026

Ans: Liposuction will help

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A relative recently lost a significant amount of weight and now has loose skin around the abdomen and arms. She is exercising but says the skin itself isn’t tightening much. Does exercise eventually improve loose skin, or are procedures like body-contouring surgery sometimes considered after major weight loss?

Plastic-Aesthetic Surgeon, Emergency Care Consultant - Answered on Sep 28, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 28, 2026

Ans: Limited liposuction may help. It is a safe surgery

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There are so many videos showing people doing DIY treatments for scars, burns and skin marks using oils, creams and home remedies. Some seem harmless, but others recommend putting strong chemicals directly on the skin. Which common home remedies should people definitely avoid after an injury, and when should they stop treating something at home and seek medical help?

Plastic-Aesthetic Surgeon, Emergency Care Consultant - Answered on Sep 28, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 28, 2026

Ans: I will recommend to see a specialist first and then only start any therapy

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If someone suddenly gets a deep cut from broken glass and there is a lot of bleeding, people around usually start looking for antiseptic, cotton or turmeric. What should the first person at the scene actually do before taking the injured person to an emergency department, especially if the bleeding doesn’t stop?

Plastic-Aesthetic Surgeon, Emergency Care Consultant - Answered on Sep 28, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 28, 2026

Ans: The person should give non stop pressure over the area from where it is bleeding for 15 min by the clock.
There is an Emergency App called Namaste Health.. It can connect you to an emergency Specialist immediately over video call

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Our office recently installed a coffee machine, so now everyone has started having coffee during breaks. But somehow the taste is quite different from normal coffee made at home. I feel the main problem is that the milk used by the machine is not properly boiled or heated, and because of that the coffee sometimes tastes slightly strange and doesn’t feel as fresh. Is milk in automatic coffee machines supposed to be boiled before being used, or is the heating process different? Also, from a health and hygiene point of view, is it safe to regularly drink coffee from these office machines if the milk is only heated and not actually boiled?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 26, 2026

Ans: Milk in office coffee machines is not boiled the way we boil milk at home — and that’s completely normal. These machines use a controlled heating system (usually 65–75°C) that is safe, hygienic, and designed for taste and consistency. The “strange taste” you’re noticing is usually due to UHT milk, storage temperature, or machine cleanliness, not because the milk is unsafe.

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Recently I came across an Instagram post promoting Japanese Red Diamond Guava, and what caught my attention was the claim that it has very few seeds compared with regular guava. The seller was making it sound like this variety is somehow more premium and better for health because it is easier to eat. I’m curious whether having fewer seeds actually makes any nutritional difference. Does this Japanese red guava contain more vitamins, fibre, antioxidants, or other nutrients than the normal guavas we get in the market, or is the ‘few seeds’ feature mainly about taste and convenience? Is it really worth paying extra for this variety?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 27, 2026

Ans: Japanese Red Diamond Guava may look premium and taste sweeter, but nutritionally it is not superior to the regular Indian guava you buy in the market. The “few seeds” feature is mainly about convenience and marketing, not a meaningful health advantage. Paying extra is rarely justified unless you simply enjoy the taste.

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I recently saw these small ‘baby honey pineapples’ in an overseas food store and was wondering whether they are actually a better choice for someone with diabetes. They look much smaller and sweeter than the regular pineapple we usually buy, so I’m confused whether their sugar content is also higher. Are these mini pineapples okay for a person with diabetes to eat occasionally, or should they be avoided because they taste very sweet? Does the fact that they are imported or a different variety make any real difference to their effect on blood sugar?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 27, 2026

Ans: Those “baby honey pineapples” may taste sweeter, but they are not more dangerous for someone with diabetes than regular pineapple. Their sugar content per gram is similar — the difference is mostly flavor, size, and variety, not a major change in glycemic impact. What matters most is portion size, not whether the pineapple is imported or a special variety. Avoid eating it on an empty stomach as it can spike blood sugar levels.

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I’m currently around 110 kg and really want to lose weight, so I was thinking of skipping dinner completely every day. I usually have breakfast and lunch normally, but by evening I’m not always that hungry anyway. If I skip dinner but don’t change much about what I eat during the rest of the day, will I actually lose weight? Or would it be better to have a light, properly planned dinner instead?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 27, 2026

Ans: Skipping dinner can cause short?term weight loss, but for someone around 110 kg, it usually backfires — leading to overeating the next day, slower metabolism, poor sleep, and inconsistent hunger signals. A light, planned dinner is far more effective, safer, and easier to sustain. A light, planned dinner works better. A small, protein?rich dinner is the most effective approach for weight loss at 110 kg.

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This year I celebrated Onam with a friend who invited all of us for an Onam Sadhya lunch, and honestly the traditional food was absolutely delicious. There were so many different dishes served together, and despite being a festive meal, many of the items were made with simple ingredients like vegetables, lentils, coconut, and spices. It made me wonder why we usually think of traditional food as something we eat only during festivals or special occasions. If a traditional meal like Onam Sadhya can be so varied and include so many nutritious ingredients, are we unnecessarily replacing these traditional foods with modern or packaged foods in our everyday diet? Can dishes from an Onam Sadhya actually be included in a regular healthy diet, rather than keeping them only for celebrations?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 27, 2026

Ans: Yes — dishes from an Onam Sadhya can absolutely be part of a regular, healthy Indian diet. In fact, Sadhya is one of the best examples of how traditional Indian food naturally balances vegetables, lentils, gut?friendly ingredients, and mindful portions. We often replace these foods with packaged or “modern” items not because they’re better, but because they’re faster and more convenient. Nutritionally, traditional meals like Sadhya are already beautifully designed.

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I’m a little confused about how much water a person should actually drink in a day. I hear different advice from different people - some say 2 litres is enough, while others say we should drink 3-4 litres, especially in hot weather. I also want to understand whether there is a proper way to drink water. Should we sip it slowly throughout the day or can we drink a full glass whenever we feel thirsty? One more thing I’ve heard since childhood from my grandparents is that drinking water while standing can cause knee problems or weaken the joints. They always tell me to sit down while drinking water because otherwise it will affect the knees later. Is there any scientific truth behind this, or is it simply an old family belief? What is the healthiest way to maintain hydration in our daily routine?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 08, 2026

Ans: Most people overcomplicate hydration. You don’t need 4 litres of water, you don’t need to sip constantly, and you definitely don’t need to worry about “standing and drinking causing knee problems.” That part is a cultural belief, not science. The healthiest hydration routine is simple: drink when thirsty, drink a little more in heat or activity, and spread your intake across the day. General guideline: 2–2.5 litres/day for most adults.

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Hi Komal, I live in Bangalore. By the time I reach home from work, I’m usually hungry enough to eat whatever is kept in front of me. If there are biscuits, I’ll have those with tea; if someone has cut fruit, I’ll eat that instead. My wife keeps roasted chana and nuts, while my son tells me I should be eating something with protein. The funny part is, I’m not really hungry at dinner if I eat too much at this time, but if I eat very little, I end up taking a second serving at night. So how should we actually decide what an evening snack should be? Is there a simple way to choose between fruit, nuts, chana, eggs, sprouts or even a small tea-time snack based on whether someone is trying to lose weight, maintain weight, or just control their dinner appetite?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 08, 2026

Ans: Choosing an evening snack is not about picking the “healthiest” item — it’s about choosing the right type of food for the goal you have that evening. Choose snacks that keep you full for 2–3 hours. The best options include roasted chana, boiled egg, sprouts bowl, nuts (small handful). Choose snacks that are low?calorie but filling like fruit, curd , makahana etc. Your wife’s roasted chana, your son’s protein advice, and your own preference for fruit — all are correct. You simply choose based on what you want your evening to look like.

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Dear Komalji, I have noticed that whenever there is a wedding, festival or family function, I completely lose track of my normal eating routine. Breakfast may be skipped, lunch gets delayed, then there are sweets, fried snacks and a heavy dinner. I don't want to be the person carrying a food scale to every function, but I also don't want three days of celebration to turn into a week of unhealthy eating. Is there a practical way to handle Indian functions without feeling guilty about enjoying the food?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 08, 2026

Ans: You can enjoy weddings, festivals, and family functions without guilt and without letting three days turn into a week of unhealthy eating. A few small, realistic habits keep your routine stable even when the food is rich, unpredictable, and abundant. Never attend a function on an empty stomach. Eat healthy options at home such as boiled eggs, curd, beans salad etc. This prevents overeating sweets, sugar crashes and bingeing at lunch or dinner. Follow the ½–¼–¼ plate rule at the function, taste 1 sweet fully. A 10?minute walk after the meal reduces post?meal sugar spikes.

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If my lunch is brown rice, dal, vegetables, salad and curd, it sounds like a very healthy meal, but if I take large portions of everything, I assume the calories can still become quite high. How should an ordinary person understand portion sizes without measuring every ingredient or calculating calories for every meal?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 08, 2026

Ans: Yes — even a “healthy” lunch can become high?calorie if portions are too large. But you don’t need to measure grams or count calories. Ordinary people can understand portion sizes using visual cues, plate division, and simple hand?based rules that work anywhere — at home, office, or canteen. Just follow hand portions, Plate division and reasonable rice/dal quantities. Like: ½ plate vegetables + salad, ¼ plate dal/curd (protein), ¼ plate rice or 1–2 rotis (carbs)

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I wanted to understand something about cooking vegetables. Is it okay if we cook them until they become very soft, or does that reduce too much of their nutrition? For some vegetables we usually boil or pressure-cook them, while others are just lightly cooked. I’m also wondering whether eating vegetables raw is always better, because sometimes cooked vegetables seem easier to eat and digest. Does the cooking method really make a big difference to the nutrients we get from vegetables?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 08, 2026

Ans: Cooking vegetables until they’re soft is not unhealthy. You lose some nutrients with high?heat or long cooking, but you also gain digestibility and better absorption of certain vitamins. Raw is not automatically better. The best method depends on the vegetable and your digestion.

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I work in an office where tea and biscuits are almost part of every meeting. I may not eat a proper breakfast, but I end up having several cups of sweet tea and biscuits before lunch. My recent sugar report was normal, but diabetes runs in my family, so I’m wondering whether this routine can increase my future risk. What small food changes would make the biggest difference without completely giving up tea?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2026

Ans: Yes — multiple cups of sweet tea + biscuits can increase your future diabetes risk even if your current sugar report is normal. The risk comes from daily repeated sugar spikes, not from one biscuit. Modify the routine. Reduce sugar in tea gradually. Replace biscuits with low?GI Indian snacks like roasted chana, makhana etc. Add a small breakfast with protein foods like eggs, nuts, beans etc. Limit tea frequency, not tea itself.

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My wife takes her diabetes medicines regularly and checks her sugar, but she still feels confused about what to eat at dinner. Sometimes she avoid rice completely, while other time she eats it if the portion is controlled. She also enjoys chapati, dal and vegetables and doesn’t want to follow an expensive diet. What type of typical Indian dinner plate be planned for someone with diabetes?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2026

Ans: A typical Indian dinner can be perfectly diabetes?friendly if it follows the right portion balance, carb quality, and protein–fiber pairing. Rice is not forbidden — it just needs to be portion?controlled and paired correctly. A simple rule to follow- One protein, one vegetable, one controlled carb. If she builds her plate this way, she doesn’t need expensive foods or complicated diets.

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I’ve noticed that my blood sugar readings are sometimes higher in the morning even when I haven’t eaten anything after dinner. This has made me wonder whether the timing of dinner, sleep, stress or the liver releasing glucose overnight can affect fasting sugar. How should I understand these morning readings properly instead of assuming that eating less at night will automatically solve the problem?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2026

Ans: Yes — fasting sugar can be high even when you haven’t eaten anything. This is very common in diabetes and prediabetes. It happens because of overnight hormones, liver glucose release, stress, sleep timing, and medication timing, not just food. The four main physiological reasons- 1) Dawn phenomenon where between 3–8 AM, hormones like cortisol and growth hormone rise. 2) Somogyi effect - If sugar drops too low overnight (due to long gaps, heavy exercise, or certain medications),
the body “overcorrects” by releasing extra glucose. 3) . Liver glucose dump where the liver stores glucose and releases it when you’re stressed or you slept poorly 4)Late-night stress or poor sleep- Stress hormones increase insulin resistance. Keep dinner balanced and include protein, vegetables, moderate carbs. This stabilizes overnight glucose.

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A relative with diabetes has started following online advice to drink bitter gourd juice, cinnamon water and fenugreek water every morning. She believes these remedies will help control his sugar and may eventually reduce his need for medicines. I wonder are there any real benefits to these traditional foods, and how should they be used safely without replacing prescribed treatment or creating a false sense of security?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2026

Ans: Bitter gourd, cinnamon, and fenugreek do have some scientifically observed benefits for blood sugar — but they are supportive, not primary treatment. They should never replace prescribed diabetes medication, and they can create a false sense of control if used incorrectly.

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I’m trying to improve my diet, but healthy eating is becoming expensive. Greek yoghurt, protein bars, imported fruits, seeds and other products are often recommended online, whereas at home we usually have dal, poha, eggs, curd, seasonal vegetables and regular grains. I want to meet the nutritional needs with ordinary Indian foods, or are these expensive ‘health foods’ actually necessary?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2026

Ans: You absolutely can meet all your nutritional needs with ordinary Indian foods. Dal, chana, rajma, eggs, curd, milk, paneer, soy chunks have same protein quality as greek yogurt or protein bars. Poha, vegetables, whole wheat roti, millets, dal have same digestive benefits as chia seeds or oats. Seasonal fruits (banana, papaya, guava), local vegetables are often more nutrient-dense than imported fruits. Your everyday Indian foods are nutritionally complete, scientifically sound, and budget-friendly.

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My office day starts around 8:30–8:45 am, and I currently weigh 110 kg. I usually have a cup of black coffee when I arrive, then eat breakfast around 9:50 am from our canteen. The options are mostly bread- or pav-based items such as misal pav, bread pakoda, butter bread or pav vada. I have another black coffee around 11:30 am, but between 11:30 and 12:30 I often start munching on something because lunch is only at 1:15 pm. I’m not always sure whether I’m genuinely hungry or just eating because I’m sitting at my desk with coffee. Is this routine unhealthy, especially given my weight, and what would be a better way to plan my breakfast or mid-morning snack so I can manage my hunger, avoid unnecessary munching and support healthy weight loss before lunch?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Sep 27, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2026

Ans: Your current routine can trigger unnecessary hunger and snacking—not because you lack discipline, but because the timing, food type, and coffee pattern are working against your natural appetite rhythms. Misal pav, bread pakoda, butter bread, vada pav are all high?carb, low?protein foods. Coffee reduces appetite for 45–90 minutes, but when it wears off, hunger rebounds sharply, acidity increases and cravings feel stronger. Have your black coffee, but add one small protein source before or with it. like boiled eggs (1–2), greek yogurt / curd cup or roasted channa. Avoid or limit bread pakoda, butter bread, pav vada etc. Ideal mini-snacks (100–150 kcal)
include fruit (banana, apple, pear) or a handful of nuts.

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My 5-year-old has become extremely attached to one particular parent. If I leave the room, even for a few minutes, he starts crying and wants me to come back. This has become especially difficult when leaving him at school or with grandparents. Is this normal separation anxiety at this age?

Paediatrician - Answered on Sep 21, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 21, 2026

Ans: It is unusual at this age and there must be a trigger like a prolonged separation. Try to find out what is causing the anxiety. If not improving then consult a psychologist

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Our 6-month-old baby was recently taken for a routine check-up, and the doctor suggested getting the baby’s eyes examined in more detail. During the examination, they used small clips to gently keep the eyelids open so they could properly look at the eyes. My wife became quite worried seeing this and felt that such a procedure might be uncomfortable or harmful for such a young baby. Is this kind of eye examination commonly done in infants, and why would a doctor recommend it at six months? Are there any risks parents should be aware of?

Paediatrician - Answered on Sep 21, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 21, 2026

Ans: An ophthalmologist who is regularly seeing infants will do the procedure skilfully

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How do i know if my son has worm infection? He keeps complaining about stomach pain. Sometimes I feel he is lying it to avoid certain vegetables. He doesn't finish his lunch in school. He says his stomach was paining so he didn't eat. Are there any tests to confirm?

Paediatrician - Answered on Sep 16, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2026

Ans: It is safe to administer deworming medicine every 6 months
Recurrent abdominal pain usually points to a digestive issue like constipation. If he is fine on holidays and has pain only when school.ia on then it could be psychosomatic

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Is it normal for kids to have hairfall? My daughter is 11 yrs old and every day when I comb, she is losing hair. I noticed it only recently. I spoke to a lot of parents but no one else is facing this. One parent told me it could be because after tying her hair, she pulls the rubber band from time to time. She has hair strands on her uniform and she feels very embarassed now. Can tight rubber bands cause hairfall?

Paediatrician - Answered on Sep 16, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2026

Ans: Yes right hairbands pulled into a pony tail can cause hairfall.
Also get her checked for iron and vitamin b deficiency. Poor protein intake can also cause hairfall

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My daughter nysa (6 yrs) is a very picky eater. Some days she eats well, but on other days she survives on just a few bites and says she’s full. She is active, plays normally and doesn’t seem sick, but every mealtime turns into a negotiation. How do parents know the difference between normal picky eating and a nutritional problem that needs medical attention?

Paediatrician - Answered on Sep 10, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 10, 2026

Ans: She needs to be examined by a pediatrician to check if her height and weight are in the appropriate range and if she has any nutritional deficiencies.

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Question by Mahadevan - Sep 09, 2026

Paediatrician - Answered on Sep 09, 2026

Hello doctor, My son is 19, 179 cms height and 52 kilos weight. His BMI is only 16, he is underweight. He didn't put weight in the last 2 years despite growing tall. He is having vegetarian food only. Often he catches cold. Our family doctor gave him a nutritional drink called ensure, but it didn't solve the purpose. Kindly suggest a diet for him to put weight. Thank you

Ans: Please consult a dietician

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Right now it's mango season, and I end up eating mangoes almost every day because they're my favourite fruit. But whenever I go to the market, there are so many varieties - Alphonso, Kesar, Badami, Langra, Dasheri, Totapuri and more - that I get confused about which one is actually best for regular consumption. Some people say Alphonso tastes the best but has more sugar, while others say local varieties are healthier and fresher. I also hear mixed opinions about eating mangoes daily - some say it's full of vitamins and great for the body, while others warn about weight gain and sugar levels. If someone wants to enjoy mangoes regularly during the season, which variety would you personally recommend from a health point of view, and how much is considered okay to eat daily

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Aug 10, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - May 08, 2026

Ans: Mangoes are genuinely one of the most nutritious fruits available, and the confusion around varieties and quantity is very common. From a purely nutritional standpoint, no single variety is dramatically superior. Whole mangoes have a moderate glycaemic index. For a healthy adult, one cup of sliced mango — approximately 150 to 200 grams or roughly half a medium mango — is a reasonable daily amount during the season. This provides approximately 100 calories, 23 grams of carbohydrate, 2.5 grams of fibre, and generous amounts of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, folate, and potassium. Eat the mango, and skip the mango juice.

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Recently I tasted Calcutta Nolen Gur for the first time at a friend’s house, and honestly the flavour felt very different from the regular gud (jaggery) we usually buy in Mumbai markets. It had a softer texture, lighter colour, and a unique caramel-like taste that I hadn’t experienced before. My friend said it's made differently and is considered special in Bengal, especially during winter. Now I'm curious. how exactly is Nolen Gur different from the normal jaggery we commonly get in Mumbai? Is it made from different ingredients or through a different process? From a nutrition and health perspective, is there actually any major difference between the two, or is it mainly about taste and regional preference?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Aug 06, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - May 08, 2026

Ans: Nolen gur is genuinely different from the regular jaggery you get in Mumbai, in source, processing, seasonality, flavour, and texture. Nutritionally, both are similar, but Nolen gur is fresher, less processed, and often lower in mineral impurities, which gives it that clean, caramel?like taste. Nolen gur has different ingredient, date palm sap vs sugarcane in normal jaggery. Nutritionally, both are similar. Nolen gur is not a “healthier” sweetener. It is simply fresher, more artisanal and more flavourful
Both should be consumed in moderation. In Bengal, it is seasonal , handcrafted and made from date palm sap (rare outside Bengal)

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Whenever I try to control my weight, the first advice everyone gives is ‘stop sugary tea and coffee.’ So now I've switched to drinks without sugar, but I still can't decide what makes more sense for daily use - black tea or black coffee. My gym friend says coffee helps burn more calories and keeps appetite under control, while my colleague says too much black coffee can increase acidity and stress, so tea is the safer option. Since I’m mainly trying to reduce belly fat and avoid unnecessary snacking during office hours, which one would actually be a smarter choice to include regularly?

Komal Jethmalani | Answer |Ask -Follow

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Aug 06, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - May 08, 2026

Ans: If your main goals are reducing belly fat and controlling office?hour snacking, black coffee gives a stronger appetite?suppressing and metabolism?boosting effect, but only if your stomach tolerates it well. However, if you struggle with acidity, stress, or jitteriness, black tea is the smarter daily choice. Your belly fat will respond most to consistent calorie control, protein?rich meals, fiber?rich snacks, daily exercise and reducing late?night eating.

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Question by Nadakuduru - Apr 24, 2026

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Physiotherapist - Answered on Aug 02, 2026

in December,2025,I have undergone umblical hernea repair and removal of gall bladder.I am 66year old and 84KGs weight.I am 165 cms tall.My waist is 45 inches which is very unhealthy.MY hands and other body parts are normal but i am having a very big fat belly.Since I am operated 4 months back as mentioned above,what type of exercises I can do with out affecting the mesh which was put in my stomach during umblical hernea repair and other precautions for gall bladder removal post operation body.I read somewhere,fat belly leads to heart attack and also i am obese.Kindly guide me .Thanks.

Ans: Dear Mr. Nadakuduru. Thank you for your query. After your hernia and gallbladder surgery, walking on for 30 minutes twice daily is your safest and most important exercise, and you can also do wall push ups, sit to stand from a chair, gentle half squats, and static lunges where you just bend slightly without stepping, all while keeping your belly completely relaxed and never holding your breath.
You can do isometric exercises like palm pressing, thigh squeezing, glute tightening, and back pressing against a wall, but it is important you never to do any stomach isometrics like planks or belly tightening because that creates internal pressure which can disturb your mesh.
Do your walking every day, but keep all other exercises for alternate days only, and always start with 5 minutes of walking as warm up and end with 5 minutes to cool down.I wish you a very quicker recovery

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