Coffee is increasingly moving beyond the breakfast table and into daily skincare routines, as dermatologists point to its antioxidant-rich profile and revitalizing properties. Backed by emerging research and popular natural therapies, coffee-infused treatments are being promoted as accessible, cost-effective alternatives to commercial cosmetic products.

Interest has surged particularly in homemade formulations, many of which make use of simple kitchen ingredients. Among the most widely used is the coffee face scrub, prepared with a blend of ground coffee, coconut or olive oil, and optionally honey. Applied gently to damp skin for a few minutes before rinsing, this scrub is believed to help lift dead skin cells, boost blood circulation, and restore natural radiance—benefits dermatologists say align with the exfoliating and stimulating qualities of caffeine.

Another remedy gaining traction is the coffee-and-yogurt face mask. Made by mixing coffee grounds with plain yogurt, the mask is applied for about 15 to 20 minutes before being washed off with cool water. Users often report softer, more hydrated skin, and experts note that the combination provides both moisturization and a refreshed, energized complexion.

Coffee is also finding use in targeted under-eye treatments. A light application of coffee grounds blended with a few drops of almond oil for about 10 minutes is said to help reduce puffiness and diminish the appearance of dark circles. Dermatologists attribute these effects to caffeine’s natural ability to constrict blood vessels and calm swelling.

For full-body care, a coffee body scrub made with equal portions of coffee grounds, sugar or sea salt, and coconut oil has become a popular shower-time ritual. When gently massaged onto the skin and rinsed thoroughly, the mixture can leave the body feeling smoother while helping lessen the visible impact of cellulite, according to skincare specialists familiar with natural exfoliants.

Experts advise exercising care when using homemade treatments. Fresh or previously brewed coffee grounds should be used, harsh scrubbing must be avoided, and a patch test is recommended before first-time application. Mixtures made with oils should be stored in airtight containers and refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

As interest grows in sustainable and chemical-free skincare, coffee-based routines are emerging as practical choices for individuals seeking natural alternatives. With simple ingredients and minimal cost, these remedies offer a way to enhance skin health while reducing dependence on expensive commercial products—underscoring a broader shift toward accessible, home-driven wellness practices.

Once regarded as a humble tree rooted in the culinary and cultural traditions of the Indian subcontinent, moringa—widely known as the drumstick tree or sahjan—is now drawing global attention for its remarkable nutritional value. Long celebrated in ancient medicinal texts, the plant’s leaves, pods and seeds are being re-examined by modern researchers who say moringa offers an unusually rich combination of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support overall health.

Scientific studies highlight that moringa leaves contain substantial levels of vitamins A, C and E, as well as calcium, potassium and iron—nutrients that play a vital role in protecting cells from damage and bolstering the body’s natural defences. Nutrition experts note that regular consumption may help enhance immunity through its antioxidant activity, offering support against common infections. Its anti-inflammatory properties have also made it a subject of interest in research exploring relief for joint pain, swelling and fatigue.

Emerging evidence suggests that moringa may assist in stabilising blood sugar levels, a finding that has prompted further investigation into its potential role in managing diabetes. Cardiologists and nutritionists have also pointed to the presence of potassium and dietary fibre in moringa, which could contribute to healthier cholesterol levels and improved heart health. Beyond these targeted benefits, many consumers report increased energy and better digestion, traits that have made the plant particularly appealing in wellness communities worldwide.

Despite its growing reputation, moringa remains widely accessible and inexpensive. Health professionals emphasise that incorporating it into daily meals requires no elaborate preparation. Powdered moringa can be added to warm water, lemon drinks or smoothies; fresh leaves blend naturally into vegetables, lentils, soups and stuffed flatbreads; and the well-known drumstick pods continue to feature in traditional dishes such as sambhar and curries. Moringa tea, now increasingly available, is often used as part of detox or weight-management routines.

While more than 40 antioxidants and numerous essential nutrients have been identified in the plant, specialists caution that moringa should be treated as a nutrient-rich food—not a medicinal replacement. They advise that pregnant women and individuals taking prescribed medication consult a healthcare professional before introducing moringa into their routine.

As interest in natural wellness grows, moringa stands out for its affordability, versatility and strong nutritional profile. Its rising popularity reflects a broader shift toward plant-based approaches to combating the pressures of modern life, from pollution to poor diet. For many, this centuries-old tree is emerging as a timely reminder of nature’s capacity to support holistic health in simple, accessible ways.

Milk, long regarded as a staple of human nutrition, continues to hold a central place in modern health guidance, with experts emphasizing its crucial role in supporting bone strength, muscle development and overall physical well-being. Rich in essential nutrients such as calcium, high-quality protein and vitamin D, milk is widely recommended across age groups to help maintain structural health throughout life.

Calcium, the most prominent mineral in milk, forms the fundamental framework of bone and dental tissue. Nearly 99 percent of the calcium in an adult body is stored in the bones, underscoring its vital function in maintaining skeletal density. Regular milk consumption, health professionals note, contributes significantly to preserving bone mass and reducing the long-term risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

To enhance this benefit, most packaged milk varieties today are fortified with vitamin D—a nutrient that enables the body to absorb and utilize calcium effectively. Without adequate vitamin D, even calcium-rich diets fail to deliver full skeletal support. The pairing of both nutrients creates a potent combination for strengthening bones across all life stages.

Milk is also recognized for its high-quality protein content, which plays a critical role in building and repairing muscle tissue. Strong muscles provide essential support to the skeletal system and reduce vulnerability to falls or injuries. In addition, milk naturally contains minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium and potassium, all of which contribute to bone mineralization, flexibility and overall structural resilience.

Health specialists emphasize that children and adolescents, in particular, benefit from consistent milk intake as their bodies undergo rapid growth and development. For adults, maintaining regular consumption helps sustain bone density and lowers the chances of age-related skeletal disorders.

Public nutrition programmes in India similarly prioritise milk and dairy products to address widespread deficiencies. Under initiatives such as the National Nutrition Mission, government agencies promote adequate intake of calcium- and protein-rich foods—especially among children and women—to support long-term health outcomes.

Far beyond its reputation as a simple household beverage, milk continues to stand out as a natural and accessible source of strength, aiding bone stability, muscle function and overall vitality. Regular, balanced consumption can help individuals stay healthy and active well into later years.

In the ongoing push for healthier living, nutrition specialists are once again spotlighting a food that often sits unnoticed on pantry shelves: oats. Long regarded as a humble breakfast ingredient, this whole grain is emerging as a powerful dietary ally, credited with improving heart health, supporting digestion and helping maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.

Health experts note that oats are among the richest natural sources of soluble fiber, a component known for lowering LDL cholesterol and stabilizing blood sugar. Alongside fiber, oats contain essential nutrients including protein, B-complex vitamins, magnesium, iron and zinc—elements vital for muscle growth, immune strength and the body’s overall metabolic function. Their nutrient profile, researchers say, makes oats far more than a weight-management option; they serve as a comprehensive support system for long-term wellness.

Dietitians highlight the ease with which oats can be incorporated into everyday meals. A warm bowl of porridge made with milk or water and topped with fruits, nuts or seeds remains a classic breakfast choice, offering a balanced start to the morning. Many consumers have also embraced overnight oats, a no-cook preparation in which oats are soaked in milk or yogurt and refrigerated, resulting in a ready-to-eat meal enriched with fresh fruit or honey by the next day.

Oats are also becoming routine additions to smoothies, where they blend seamlessly with fruits to create a more filling and nutritious beverage. In home kitchens and commercial bakeries alike, oats are now used in energy bars, cookies, muffins and other baked snacks that cater to health-conscious consumers seeking convenient yet wholesome options. Savory dishes have not been left behind; chefs increasingly use oats to add texture and nutritional substance to items such as upma, vegetable patties and stews. Even toasted oats are gaining popularity as a crunchy topping for yogurt bowls and salads.

Nutritionists emphasize that consistent consumption of oats can contribute significantly to long-term health by improving digestive efficiency, sustaining energy levels and supporting cardiovascular wellness. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them one of the simplest dietary changes individuals can adopt in pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.

With a rise in the ageing population in India and failing artificial joints, the demand for skilled surgeons for revision knee and hip surgeries is rising in the country, said experts on Saturday.

Revision knee or hip replacement surgery, called Revision Arthroplasty, is done when any hip or knee replacement loosens, wears out, or fails.

The artificial knee and hip joints are increasingly being subject to wear and tear, with their lifespan reduced to 20 to 25 years.

“In India, a lot of elderly patients have undergone joint replacement, primarily due to a rise in degenerative arthritis, in the last 15-20 years. So, the burden of revision surgeries is going to increase, as the implants can wear off or any infection might occur, or some complication occurs,” Prof Vijay Kumar, Department of Orthopaedics, from AIIMS, told IANS.

“With the number of ageing implants rising rapidly in India, the lack of specialised training can lead to premature failures, repeated operations, higher healthcare expenses, and long-term functional challenges for patients,” added Dr Samarth Mittal, Additional Professor, Orthopaedics, JPNA Trauma Centre, AIIMS, Delhi.

The health experts, speaking on the sidelines of the three-day Revision Arthroplasty Conference (RAC) 2025, noted that revision surgeries are far more complex and a surgically demanding procedure than the primary implant surgery and require additional surgical skills.

Kumar highlighted that the complexity is much higher, as, unlike the primary implant, during a revision surgery, there's already an implant inside. The failing implant is also causing a lot of bone loss, requiring special techniques and highly specialised training, planning, and experience.

As India’s population of ageing implants continues to grow, inadequate training may result in early re-failure, repeat surgeries, escalated treatment costs, and long-term disability for patients.

“India is entering an era where trained ‘revision’ knee and hip replacement surgeons are no longer optional - they are essential,” said Dr (Prof.) Anil Arora, a Robotic Knee and Hip Replacement and Orthopaedics surgeon, at a leading hospital in the city.

“India urgently needs more skilled revision surgeons to meet the rising demand. Revision surgeries require advanced implants, sophisticated instrumentation, meticulous planning for bone loss, and expertise in dealing with aseptic loosening, implant wear, periprosthetic fractures, infections, and instability,” added Arora, also the organising chairman of RAC 2025.

India is well-positioned to tackle digital inequality and shape an inclusive transition in Artificial Intelligence (AI) for the world, said a new United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report released on Tuesday.

While AI is advancing at a historic pace, strong digital ecosystems in some countries and limited connectivity, skills, and infrastructure in others are widening gaps.

The report, focussed on the Asia Pacific region, warned that without deliberate action, AI could widen gaps in income, opportunity, and governance, reversing years of progress in reducing global inequality.

However, it showed that India’s digital public infrastructure, expanding AI research ecosystem, and large technology workforce provide a strong foundation to scale AI for public value.

“India’s digital strengths give it a head start in building an AI future that works for everyone. AI is already strengthening public health, improving climate resilience, and supporting better services. The real test is ensuring these gains reach every community,” said Dr Angela Lusigi, Resident Representative, UNDP India.

“The choices we make now will determine whether AI narrows gaps or widens them. India can lead by ensuring its benefits reach rural communities, women, and young people, not only those already connected,” she added.

The report highlighted India as a country that can demonstrate how AI can be scaled safely and inclusively.

India is already applying AI to strengthen major public systems. Aadhaar, the world’s largest biometric ID system with over 1.3 billion residents, is the biggest example. It has been increasingly paired with AI to reduce fraud, improve targeting, and ensure benefits reach the right households.

The country's health sector is also seeing increasing AI adaptation, especially in chest X-ray interpretation in tuberculosis screening, and to tackle climate change, to predict floods and other weather conditions.

AI is also being applied in India's agriculture sector to help authorities identify climate-vulnerable districts and guide climate-smart agriculture, as well as strengthen biodiversity with AI-enabled species identification and real-time alerts.

AI’s long-term impact will depend on choices made now -- especially investments in digital governance, inclusion, and safeguards, the report said.

It called "for India to continue leading on people-first AI, focusing on transparency, equitable access, and participation of marginalised communities in designing AI systems".

“With the right policies, India can help steer the region away from a new era of inequality and toward an inclusive AI future that advances the Sustainable Development Goals,” it added.

While obesity is growing as a global health challenge contributing to millions of preventable deaths each year, the World Health Organisation (WHO), in a new report on Monday, said that medications like Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) alone will not solve the problem affecting more than one billion people worldwide.

WHO defines obesity as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher in adults.

It has approved GLP-1 therapies to treat obesity as a chronic, relapsing disease. GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medicines that help lower blood sugar, support weight loss, reduce the risk of heart and kidney complications, and can even lower the risk of early death in people with type 2 diabetes.

But the global demand for GLP-1 therapies has fueled the spread of falsified and substandard products, threatening patient safety and trust.

In view of this, the WHO has released its first guideline on the use of GLP-1 therapies, providing recommendations specifically for three agents used in the long-term treatment of obesity in adults: liraglutide, semaglutide and tirzepatide.

With the new guideline, the WHO has issued conditional recommendations for using these therapies to support people living with obesity in overcoming this serious health challenge, as part of a comprehensive approach that includes healthy diets, regular physical activity, and support from health professionals.

"Obesity is a major global health challenge that WHO is committed to addressing by supporting countries and people worldwide to control it, effectively and equitably. Our new guidance recognises that obesity is a chronic disease that can be treated with comprehensive and lifelong care," WHO Director-General. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

"While medication alone won’t solve this global health crisis, GLP-1 therapies can help millions overcome obesity and reduce its associated harms," he added.

Obesity is a complex, chronic disease and a major driver of noncommunicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer. It also contributes to poorer outcomes for patients who have infectious diseases. In addition, the global economic cost of obesity is predicted to reach $3 trillion annually by 2030.

The new guidelines can help efforts to reduce skyrocketing health costs associated with managing the condition and associated health complications.

The new WHO guidance maintains that the GLP-1 therapies may be used by adults, but excluding pregnant women, for the long-term treatment of obesity.

Individuals using the GLP-1 therapies must also be offered intensive behavioural interventions, including structured interventions involving a healthy diet and physical activity.

"While GLP-1 therapies represent the first efficacious treatment option for adults with obesity, the WHO guideline emphasises that medicines alone will not solve the problem. Obesity is not only an individual concern but also a societal challenge that requires multisectoral action," the report said.

It recommended creating healthier environments through robust population-level policies to promote health and prevent obesity; protect individuals at high risk of developing obesity and related comorbidities through targeted screening and structured early interventions; and ensure access to lifelong, person-centred care.

The guidelines also emphasise the importance of fair access to GLP-1 therapies and preparing health systems for the use of these medicines. Without deliberate policies, access to these therapies could exacerbate existing health disparities.

“Even with rapid expansion in production, GLP-1 therapies are projected to reach fewer than 10 per cent of those who could benefit by 2030. The guideline calls on the global community to consider strategies to expand access, such as pooled procurement, tiered pricing, and voluntary licensing, among others,” the report said.

India is undergoing the fastest ultra-processed food (UPF) sales growth, and the resulting dietary transition is surging obesity and diabetes cases, leading to poor health, according to a new three-paper Series published in The Lancet on Wednesday. UPFs can be defined as food products mostly high in fat, sugar, and/or salt (HFSS), full of unwanted and harmful ingredients such as cosmetic additives like stablisers, emulsifiers, colorants, flavouring substances, etc. These are strongly linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, depression, and premature death, among others.

The papers, by 43 global authors, showed that retail sales of UPFs in India surged from $0.9 billion in 2006 to nearly $38 billion in 2019 -- a forty-fold rise. Retail shop shelves are now dominated by pre-packaged food and beverage products such as namkeens, noodles, biscuits, sugar-sweetened beverages, chips, breakfast cereals, exposing children and youth through advertising. As a result, obesity has doubled in India in both men (from 12 per cent to 23 per cent) and women (from nearly 15 per cent to 24 per cent), showed the study. The Series called out the aggressive marketing and advertising campaigns, which the UPF companies use to drive consumption.

“Our regulations are ineffective to restrict marketing. India must act immediately to take action and cut the consumption of UPFs, and aim for a halt in obesity and diabetes in the coming years. Given that India is the fastest-growing in UPF sales growth and the evidence of poor health outcomes, India needs to frame UPF as a priority health issue,” said Dr Arun Gupta, a pediatrician and a co-author of the Series papers. The authors urged decisive public health action to tackle UPFs and improve diets globally. More than relying on consumer behaviour change, they called for coordinated policies to reduce UPF production, marketing, and consumption, alongside improving access to healthy food.

“India needs to adopt strong regulatory measures directed at their production, marketing, and public disclosure of their constituents. Front of pack warning labels must clearly communicate the harmful levels of salt, sugar, and fat to the consumers," said Prof. Srinath Reddy, Chancellor of PHFI University of Public Health Sciences. “UPF advertised as an addiction can lead to many marketed maladies. A ban on their advertising and sponsorship is needed, especially due to the pervasive danger of celebrity endorsements,” he added.

India is committed to ensuring that transgender persons get dignity, autonomy and equal opportunity, said the government on Wednesday. As per the census 2011, there were 4.87 lakhs persons in India who opted for “other” in the gender category. This figure is assumed to be the population of non-binary persons in the country.

While historically the group has been marginalised in the country, the last decade has seen significant legal and policy reforms for the community. “India has made significant strides in addressing the historical marginalisation of the transgender community through comprehensive legal protections, welfare schemes, and digital accessibility. This shift reflects growing awareness and efforts to promote inclusivity and equality in Indian society,” the government said in an official statement.

“As India advances toward a more equitable future, ensuring that transgender persons live with dignity, autonomy, and opportunity remains central to its democratic and human rights commitments,” it added. The Supreme Court of India, in a landmark judgment in April 2014, explicitly recognised transgender individuals as a “third gender”, affirming their right to self-identify their gender, and directed the government to grant legal recognition and ensure their equality and non-discrimination.

This was followed by government initiatives such as the enactment of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 notified on January 10, 2020; the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights), Rules, 2020 for implementation of the provisions of the Act; the setting up of a National Council for Transgender Persons for advising Government on policies, programmes, legislation and projects for transgender persons and the launch of the National Portal for Transgender Persons (November 25, 2020).

“These laws and initiatives have laid the foundation for systemic support and empowerment, and efforts for promoting inclusion, dignity, non-discrimination, and mainstream integration for transgender persons, fostering a society where they can thrive with equal rights and opportunities,” the government said.

Further, the SMILE Scheme, introduced in February 2022, provides livelihood, skill training, and shelter support through Garima Greh centres and Ayushman Bharat TG Plus health coverage. In addition to that, the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment has issued “Equal Opportunities Policy for Transgender Persons” to ensure that the Transgender community has equal access to employment opportunities, etc. These initiatives collectively promote inclusion, dignity, and equal opportunities for transgender citizens, the government said.

Dhaka: As many as six people died due to dengue in Bangladesh in the 24 hours till Wednesday morning, increasing the death toll from the mosquito-borne disease in the country in 2025 to 349, local media reported on Wednesday. During the same period, 788 new patients were hospitalised in Bangladesh, raising the total number of infected cases in 2025 to 87,712, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), the United News of Bangladesh (UNB) reported.

The new fatalities were reported in Rajshahi Division, Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC). As many as 575 people died due to dengue in 2024. During the same period, 101,214 new dengue cases and 100,040 recoveries were recorded in Bangladesh. On November 6, Bangladesh's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued an advisory amid an increase in infections by the Aedes mosquito and a subsequent rise in dengue fever patients across the country.

In its advisory, the ministry said that people, at the onset of fever, should immediately seek medical help, including dengue detection tests at the nearest health‑service centre as per the advice of the qualified doctor. The ministry stated that early detection and prompt treatment can help in avoiding serious complications, United News of Bangladesh reported.

The ministry urged households, building sites, schools and other establishments to remove and clean all accumulated water in and around premises. It further asked people to use mosquito nets during day or night while sleeping due to the daytime biting habits of the Aedes mosquito. It stated that an individual must immediately consult a doctor and not ignore any remaining signs, even if the symptoms of dengue fever seem to subside. The ministry's advisory comes at a time when dengue cases continue to rise in Bangladesh, showcasing an urgent need for increased public vigilance and preventive action.

Setting a new milestone in Atmanirbhar Bharat, the government on Wednesday launched an indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease, which particularly affects India's tribal population. The world-class, low-cost gene editing solution named "BIRSA 101", in honour of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, remembered as a great tribal freedom fighter, was launched by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh.

The technology works like a “precise genetic surgery”, capable not only of curing Sickle Cell Disease but also transforming treatment pathways for several hereditary disorders, the Minister explained. Sickle Cell Disease is a chronic, single-gene disorder that causes a debilitating systemic syndrome characterised by chronic anaemia, acute painful episodes, organ infarction, and chronic organ damage, significantly reducing life expectancy.

The genetic blood disorder affects the entire life of the patient, as it leads to various severe health complications. "India has formally begun its decisive journey towards becoming a Sickle Cell Disease–free nation, marking a historic turning point in the country’s public health and genomic medicine landscape,” Singh said.

“With the development and transfer of India’s first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy, the nation has taken a major step toward fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Sickle Cell–Free India by 2047, while simultaneously advancing the goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat in frontline medical technologies,” he added.

The breakthrough therapy, developed at CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), has demonstrated India’s capability to produce pathbreaking therapies at a fraction of global costs, potentially replacing treatments priced at Rs 20-25 crore overseas. IGIB has entered into a formal technology transfer and collaboration agreement with the Pune-based Serum Institute of India to scale up the engineered enFnCas9 CRISPR platform into affordable therapies for Sickle Cell Disease and other critical genetic disorders. “Globally, gene therapies cost over three million dollars and are beyond the reach of even the wealthy. Our mission is to take Indian innovation and make it accessible for the poorest of the poor,” said Dr. Umesh Shaligram, Executive Director, Serum Institute of India.

Technical knowledge on three unique traditional therapies has been standardised to boost treatment in livestock, said the Ministry of Science and Technology on Wednesday. While demand is growing for livestock products, ensuring food security, safety, and quality is crucial. The dairy sector, largely driven by women farmers, faces recurring challenges such as tick infestations, retained placenta, and nutritional deficiencies, all of which reduce productivity and income.

To address these, the National Innovation Foundation-India (NIF), an autonomous institute of the Department and Science and Technology (DST), developed ingenious technologies by identifying novel herbal practices which can meet industrial requirements through product refinement. These offer sustainable, affordable solutions for livestock health and rural livelihoods.

“India’s rich biodiversity-based wisdom, especially in indigenous livestock healthcare, offers sustainable alternatives to chemical and antibiotic treatments,” the Ministry said. “The NIF has recognised, shared and sustained technologies for management of ectoparasite infestation, enhancing milk production potential (Galactogogue properties) and prevention/treatment of retention of placental conditions among dairy animals by outstanding traditional knowledge holders from regions of Odisha and Bihar,” it added.

The minimum dosage and cost were standardised, efficacy was enhanced and safety was ensured, the Ministry said. NIF works to validate and incubate these practices, enabling their integration into the formal veterinary system and fostering the development of herbal, eco-friendly therapies. To commercialise the three unique herbal products, the NIF entered into technology license agreement with a Gujarat-based pharma company Rakesh Health Care India.

“It is well known that cost effective, sustainable technologies are increasingly in demand due to appreciable single drug related limitations such as development of resistance and drug residues. Indigenous medications can meet these requirements and have the ability to meaningfully address environmental challenges,” the Ministry said. “Indigenous knowledge system can fill therapeutic void and augment development of medicinal products which are sustainable, affordable, reduce, potential health harms,” it added.