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Har Paani Ki Bottle Bisleri Nahi! (Not Every Bottle of Water is Bisleri)
“Thousands have lived without Love, not one without Water.” – W.H. Auden.
This quote explains the necessity of water for everybody. Water is one of the most precious resources nature has blessed us with. I’ve always considered clean water important for good health. If it’s contaminated and unpure, it can lead to serious health hazards like diarrhoea, cholera, and typhoid. Clean water is not only a choice but also a necessity. I’m a curious person who feels strongly about the preservation of the ecosystem.
My zeal to gain more knowledge about this and share it with friends, family, and readers took me to the BISLERI Plant in Mumbai. We wished to understand what makes Bisleri the cleanest and best. Firstly, let me tell you what mineral water actually is.
Mineral water is clean water which contains a certain amount of natural minerals. The filtration process washes away essential minerals like magnesium and potassium. Hence, before packaging it, the water is infused with these, making it mineral water. I’m sure you’re wondering whether it’s safe to consume mineral water. Rest assured, this water is safe and healthy for consumption.
I had already visited a couple of factories, so I had a clear idea of what to expect. However, to my surprise, Bisleri’s factory was very different. A passion to provide healthy and pure water to their consumers - that’s the goal and mission of Bisleri. Mrs. Ghosh, Director, Bisleri explained that their vision is to make a Bisleri bottle accessible to everyone. Before reaching the shops, their bottles go through 114 quality tests and screenings. A uniform procedure is used across all the Bisleri plants in India, for complete quality control. During the plant visit, I saw them clean and sanitize bottles before filling them with clean, filtered water. They have strict protocols in place for adherence to rules and practices. Bisleri’s Mumbai plant also features a one-of-a-kind ‘Vertical Conveyer Belt’ which promotes smooth supply chain management.
Post the visit, we wished to meet Mrs. Ghosh again as we were brimming with questions. She patiently heard and addressed every question of ours. I was curious about the contribution Bisleri was doing towards social development, to which Mrs. Ghosh answered, “Bisleri has adopted a zero wastage policy where we utilize each and every drop of water that we procure. Also, more than 80% of our PET waste gets recycled with the help of ancillary helpers.”
We got to know that Bisleri has explained the need for water conversation to the local administrators. As a mom who always talks about saving water, this gave me a great sense of relief.
This visit provided a lot of insight into how companies like Bisleri are contributing to sustainable development. My daughter also had fun playing quizzes and games and learning new facts about water.
From then on, mineral water means Bisleri for my family, both on-the-go and at home. It is our first choice now. You too can book a plant visit with them on their site – https://www.bisleri.com/.
I trust Bisleri because #HarPaaniKiBottleBisleriNahi.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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10 Common Sunscreen Ingredients That Can Harm Your Child
As we have been told by our parents and elders, an excess of anything isn't good, not even sunshine. While outdoors, you need to protect your little one’s tender skin from harmful UV (ultraviolet) radiations of the sun. However, do check that the sunscreen you are applying doesn't have potentially toxic chemicals which can cause a range of disorders from skin allergies to even cancer!
Sunscreens broadly fall into 2 categories- mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreens protect the skin by blocking or reflecting the harmful radiations of the sun. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin to filter and absorb UV rays thereby protecting deeper layers. However, while choosing brands, avoid the following 10 dubious ingredients to reap the benefits of sunscreen and sidestep the potentially harmful side effects.
Dangerous Ingredients In Sunscreen That You Must Avoid
1. Oxybenzone
This common ingredient in chemical sunscreens accumulates faster than our body can get rid of it. Eczema like allergic reactions can be caused when oxybenzone is absorbed by your child’s skin. Experts also suspect that oxybenzone disrupts your child’s hormones and endocrine system.
2. Octinoxate
Another sunscreen culprit is the commonly found chemical octinoxate which produces free radicals that can cause long-term damage to skin and cells. It's also believed to disrupt your child's hormonal balance.
3. Cinoxate
This active ingredient in sunscreens can cause skin rashes and other serious allergic reactions like swelling, especially of the face /tongue /throat, severe dizziness and breathing problems.
4. Retinyl Palmitate(Vitamin A Palmitate)
This active ingredient in sunscreens with anti-ageing powers breaks down when exposed to the sun's UV rays, and produces destructive free toxic radicals. These damage DNA and can even cause skin tumours and cancer.
5. Homosalate
These are UV-absorbing toxic sunscreen ingredients that tend to accumulate in our bodies and turn toxic over time. They can disrupt our hormones when the exposure is for long durations. ||
6. Paraben Preservatives
This common toxic chemical in sunscreens can lead to both acute and chronic side effects. Allergic reactions, hormone disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity are a few harmful ingredients in sunscreen you strictly need to avoid.
7. Octocrylene
This chemical which is easily absorbed and retained by the body is particularly harmful when exposed to UV light. It produces oxygen radicals which can not only damage human cells and cause mutations but are also toxic to the environment.
8. Nanoparticles (Zinc Dioxide/Titanium Dioxide)
This can be risky when inhaled through sunscreens in spray forms. Your child's lungs have difficulty cleaning small particles, which may, therefore, pass from the lungs into the bloodstream. Extensive organ damage can be caused by soluble nanoparticles that penetrate skin or lung tissue.
9. Methylisothiazolinone(MI)
A common chemical preservative used in sunscreens is a potent allergen and can cause acute skin allergies in children. Definitely, one of the most alarming ingredients to avoid in sunscreen!
10. Fragrance
Synthetic fragrances used in some sunscreens contain harmful chemicals which might disrupt your child’s hormonal system. These are bad ingredients in sunscreen that can have long-term side effects.
This sure sounds scary! As concerned moms, try to choose herbal sunscreens that do not have these harmful chemicals. Also, make sure your child wears a hat and a full shirt when in the sun. Opt for a diet high in antioxidants which protect and nurture the skin. Fruits and veggies are your best bet here. Read more
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4 Superstitions Every First-time Mother Should Steer Clear Of
The journey from a carefree, well maintained and graceful person to a mother is not an easy one. From having plenty of time for yourself to not having the time to even groom yourself properly is a journey every mother has witnessed for herself. This becomes more challenging when one is faced with numerous suggestions and advice. Mind you, these are not only from your family and friends but anyone and everyone who realises that you are expecting. In my experience, a lot of these are mere superstitions which are continuing for a long time. So, here is a list of top 5 superstitions which I realised after going through this ordeal.
1. No to Anything Black
This was so that the baby is born all rosy and pink. Now the list includes black grapes, black pulses, brinjal and ladies prepare yourself, chocolate. Even a chocolate ice cream will tan your baby they say.
2. Stuff to Eat for Begetting a Son
All the expecting mommies, you might get suggestions to eat a particular food like chollai to get twins. Rest assured, didn't work for me and a lot of my colleagues.
3. Don't Eat Stale Food for a Hairless Baby
This is yet another one. In not saying that you eat stale food but to expect a hairy baby if you have had it sometime is not gonna happen.
4. Little Honey Goes a Long Way
This is a century old custom of putting honey on newborn's tongue if you want your baby to be polite. I have heard honey does the wonders. In reality, it does more harm than good. Honey is not suitable for infants and hence is advised against.
There are lots of others also, but you need to be a better judge of your health. Just enjoy those nine months because the next few months are going to be harrowing. Eat healthy, stay fit and get plenty of rest.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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5 Fun Ways to Celebrate World Tiger Day with Kids
When it comes to our favourite childhood stories, jungle tales featuring the majestic tiger totally take the cake. The stories came alive when our parents took us to see the beautiful big cat in tiger safaris or at the zoo. However, if tiger population continues to dwindle, our kids may see them only in picture books of extinct animals! That's reason enough to join the celebrations on July 29, when the Global Tiger Day reiterates the importance of tiger conservation efforts.
The International Tiger Day was founded in 2010 at the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit in Russia. Back then, the tiger population in the world had dropped dangerously low to extinction – a mere 3200! Since then, however, animal welfare organisations like the WWF and National Geographic have come together to protect tigers. The good news is that in India alone, which accounts for two of every three tigers worldwide, the numbers have grown from 1,411 in 2006 to 2,226 in January this year. On July 29, join in the rejoicing and also teach your kids more about the world they live in!
5 Roaring Ideas for World Tiger Day
1. Pay a tiger a visit
Why not take your kids on a jungle safari? India is home to a majority of the world's tiger population and seeing the handsome animal up close can be an unforgettable experience! Try the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, the Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka or the Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand. Though it's depressing to see tigers in captivity, consider a trip to the zoo to show children just why animals must be in their own home!
2. Watch a tiger roar onscreen
If you can't spot a tiger in person, admire the stripes on television. Tigers have always inspired filmmakers and you have tons of films to pick from. Screen "Life of Pi", Ang Lee's movie about a young man surviving in a lifeboat for weeks, accompanied by a gorgeous Royal Bengal tiger. If your little one likes cartoon films, watch Madagascar 3, The Tigger Movie or Ice Age. You'll be pleased at the love for animals these films will imbibe in him.
3. Host a jungle party
If you are feeling more adventurous, get hubby to help you with a jungle-themed party for your munchkin and his friends. Ask the kids to come in fancy-dress costumes and welcome the little animals (mostly monkeys, we are sure) with delicious food, tribal music and fun games. Hold a jungle trivia quiz with exclusive information about tigers to educate kids the fun way. Ensure to plan this advance; you don't want to be left grabbing a tiger by his tail!
4. Get a tiger home
No, this is not a pet recommendation but an art and craft idea! Get together with your little one and make a paper tiger he'll love playing with. You can use a brown grocery bag and colourful markers to bring your resident tiger to life. Why not model him along the lines of Hobbes – the adorable and intelligent tiger from the Calvin and Hobbes comic strips? You never know – the activity can also get your child interested in reading. Double whammy!
5. Associate with a tiger protection program
There are a number of wildlife conservation programs around the world such as "Save Tigers Now", a global campaign by World Wildlife Fund, and "Project Tiger," the Indian government's conservation effort launched in 1973. As a responsible family, donate and volunteer for tiger welfare efforts. Tell your kids how tigers, a major predator, help maintain the balance of nature. Without them, life as they know it will change – and also be heart-breaking.
Tigers are fascinating animals, the largest of all the big cats. It will be a terrible – not to forget, devastating – loss to the planet if they go extinct. When World Tiger Day 2015 arrives on July 29, use some of these fun ideas to sensitise yourself and your family towards their fate. After all, living in harmony with nature is our best bet at making Earth support us longer! Read more
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Vaginal Ring - A Birth Control Option
Fertility control medications or devices have been on the market for many years. With time, they have evolved to incorporate new advances in medical science to provide effective and safe birth control. One of the recently developed contraceptive devices for women is the vaginal ring, which has attracted a lot of attention. It is a device that delivers the contraceptive hormones into the vagina and offers effective protection against unplanned pregnancy. This article talks about the various aspects of using a vaginal ring in detail.
What is Vaginal Ring
Vaginal ring, as the name suggests is a ring-shaped structure that is meant for insertion into the vagina. It is made of soft plastic material and is coated with hormones that prevent women from conceiving. This simple contraceptive device is marketed under various brand names and is easily available in any family planning centre.
How Does it Work
The vaginal ring works by preventing the process of fertilization. The ring that gets inserted into the vagina, is coated with a combination of the hormones, estrogen and progestin. Both these hormones are absorbed into the reproductive system through the lining of the vagina and act in a threefold way to prevent conception.
Similar to contraceptive pills, these hormones prevent ovulation or the process of formation of the egg.
It increases the thickness of the mucous layer in the cervix, thereby obstructing the path of the sperm to enter the uterus.
It thins down the endometrial layer inside the uterus. A thick uterine wall is imperative for a fertilized egg to attach and grow. By preventing the thickening, the vaginal ring also ensures that the fertilized zygote does not implant itself for further differentiation.
Usage Guidelines
The vaginal ring is used throughout the month except for the time when menstruation occurs. This effectively means three weeks of wearing the ring and one week of the ring-free period for allowing menstruation. Once the menstrual cycle gets over, a new ring is inserted back to provide protection from unintended pregnancy.
1. How to Insert
Inserting and using the vaginal ring is very simple. Some precautions to be taken before inserting the ring are to sanitize the hands before opening the ring and also to check if the ring is within its validity period for usage. To insert the vaginal ring, open the sterile packet and squeeze the ring in such a way that the opposite sides touch each other. In this position, tease the ring inside the vagina and release it to take up its circular position.
2. How to Remove
For removal of the ring, insert your sanitized hands inside the vagina and gently tug the ring to dislodge it. Pull it out gently and pack it in the original packing material to dispose of it in the sanitary waste. Flushing the ring down the toilet is not recommended.
3. How to Use the Ring if You Want to Get Periods
The vaginal ring can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle, just like a contraceptive pill. To get your periods, insert your ring for a period of three weeks and remove it on the exact same day of the week you inserted the ring. You will get your periods soon after you remove it. Typically after the period gets over, you can insert a new ring. After insertion of the new ring, if there is mild bleeding, it is ok to retain the ring while using a sanitary pad or tampon. Care must be taken to not use a menstrual cup as they interfere with the placement of the ring.
4. How to Use the Ring to Skip Your Periods
The vaginal ring gives you the privilege of altering and restructuring your menstrual cycle. The technique is very simple and you can discuss the details with your doctor. If you wish to avoid periods for a particular month, you can continue to wear the ring for four weeks instead of just three weeks. At the end of the fourth week, on the same day of the week on which you inserted the ring, you can replace it with a new one. Mild spotting or bleeding is usually found when the ring is used to skip the periods and there is no proven harmful effect with this method.
How Effective is the Birth Control Ring
By far, it is one of the most effective contraceptive methods available in the market with a working effectiveness percentage of about 91%. The crucial aspect of using a ring is the prompt maintenance of the time of insertion and removal.
How to Make the Ring Work Best for You
To make the best of this birth control device, the following aspects need to be kept in mind while using it.
You should follow the three-week insertion and one-week removal rule diligently to increase the efficiency of the ring as a birth control method.
Insert and remove the ring on the same day of the week. For example, if you inserted it on a Monday, make sure to remove it on Monday that falls after the completion of three weeks. This way, the cycle is maintained properly.
Inserting it with sterile hands is important in order to prevent any form of vaginal infection.
Although there is no perfect position for inserting the ring, a proper insertion deep inside the vagina can prevent accidental slipping of the ring.
Who Can Use the Contraception Ring
The contraception ring is suitable for use by women of all ethnicities and ages. Unless there are any medical conditions which hinder the use of the ring, everyone can use it without any problem. Women who have given birth to a baby can start using it after the 21st day of delivery. However, the ring can reduce the flow of breast milk in feeding mothers and hence should be avoided during the first six months of exclusive breastfeeding. It can also be used right after an episode of abortion or miscarriage without any extra contraception.
Who Should Avoid Using Birth Control Ring
Although suitable for most women, the use of the vaginal ring should be avoided by women who have
A cardiac problem
A clot in the veins or arteries
A habit of smoking and have crossed the age of 35
Breast cancer
Diabetes
Obesity issues
A vagina that is either too big or small for the ring to fit
Advantages of Vaginal Ring
The vaginal ring, apart from providing effective contraception, also has some other benefits, like,
Helping in reducing menstrual cramps and pre-menstrual syndromes
Lighter menstrual bleeding
No serious side effects
Reduced risk of some cancers
It is very easy to insert and does not require any day to day follow up. It also does not interfere with the sexual pleasure, making it a very convenient device for birth control.
Risks and Side Effects of Vaginal Ring
As the ring is a hormone-based birth control method, it also entails some side effects just like the oral contraceptives. Some reported side effects are,
Nausea
Breast tenderness
Mood swings
Vaginal discharge
A headache
Fatigue and weight gain
Some risk factors associated with the ring are rare instances of a blood clot in the arteries or vein and a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer.
What if You Forget to Remove the Ring
Sometimes when you forget to remove the ring, you may expose yourself to the risk of being unprotected, as the hormones would have outlived its active time period. If you forgot the ring anytime, remove it immediately as soon as you remember. If you kept the ring inside for less than seven days after the third week, remove the ring and give a break of 7 days for your menstrual cycle and then reinsert a new ring. In the case where the ring remains for more than a week after the third week, remove it immediately and put a new ring right away. During the period where you forgot to remove the ring if you have had any intercourse, immediately take emergency contraceptive pills to avoid unintended pregnancy. Also, remember to take additional precaution while having sex for the next one week.
What if the Ring Comes Out on its Own
Sometimes, there are chances for the ring to detach and come away during intercourse or otherwise when it is not fitted properly. Depending on the time elapsed after it was inserted and the number of hours it was exposed outside, anyone of the following steps can be adopted.
If the ring is exposed out for less than a time frame of 3 hours, then wash it with cold or slightly warm water and reinsert it carefully.
If the ring is exposed for more than three hours, especially in the first or second week after insertion, then wash it with cold or lukewarm water and reinsert it. Additionally, as a precaution take contraceptive tablets for seven days. If your ring accidentally detaches soon after an intercourse, then immediately take emergency contraceptive pills to avoid pregnancy.
If the ring gets exposed for more than three hours during the third week after insertion, you can remain ring-free to complete your menstrual cycle or insert a new ring if you wish to avoid it.
Does Vaginal Ring Provide Protection Against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Vaginal ring does not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases. The use of a condom is compulsory if there is any scope for the transmission of such infections.
Vaginal Ring with Other Medicines
Some of the following medicines slightly seem to interfere with the functioning of the ring and bring down its efficiency. You can speak to your doctor before taking these medications if you are using the vaginal ring.
Medications like antibiotics (rifampicin, rifamate, rifampin)
Medications given for HIV
Antifungal griseofulvin
Some anti-epileptic medications
John’s Wort
FAQs
1. When does the vaginal start working?
The vaginal ring offers effective protection seven days after insertion. If you insert it during the first day of your menstrual cycle, it offers protection from the day you insert it. When inserted on any other days, it has to be backed by an additional contraceptive for the first 7 days.
2. When can I use the vaginal ring after childbirth?
You can use the ring 21 days after your delivery. However, if you wish to breastfeed your baby, then it is advisable to start using the ring after at least 6 months postpartum, as the hormones in the ring reduce the milk flow.
3. When can I use the ring after an abortion or miscarriage?
You can use the vaginal ring immediately after a miscarriage or abortion.
4. Can I use the ring when breastfeeding?
Although it’s not harmful to use it while breastfeeding, the ring is known to cause a reduction in the breast milk supply. Therefore, it is advisable to not use it until at least six months after delivery.
The vaginal ring is undoubtedly an effective contraceptive tool if used with diligence and proper care. You can talk to your gynaecologist to find out more about the ring and how you can start using it for preventing unintended pregnancy.
Also Read: Natural Birth Control Methods Read more
Dr Disha Patel has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
15 hours ago
Q. can I take medicine pcm n citrazene in pregnancy fir sore throats n fever
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
10 hours ago
A. dear mom.
better to take tab pcm for time being n do take steam inhakation couple of tines a day, follpw good home renedies for cold, taje more rest .
Swati Kar Samanta has added a new answer
Mom of a 9 m old child
8 hours ago
Q. hi everyone good morning,
sorghum can I give to my 10 month baby is it safe or not please revert I waiting for your reply
Swati Kar Samanta
Mom of a 2 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. Yes but first give in very small quantity to judge the reaction of your baby.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts is it okay that the baby is kicking less than usual?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
6 hours ago
A. Yes it is the what part is that your child is kicking if you feel that there is a movement of your child whether it is a cake or slight movement also you know that your child is doing fine so there is no problem in that if the movement is less it’s completely alright
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to do if the baby’s nose is blovked
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. Nasal blockage is very common, specially in small children because of the narrow nasal cavity. Any kind of saline drops like nasal clear will be helpful in dissolving the stuffy secretions, which can be taken out by vnasal aspirator gently also steam inhalation will be helpful also, try to avoid keeping the child directly under the fan.
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
3 hours ago
Q. 22 week pregnant,baby konse month me or din me kitni baar move kartaa he ,pls bataye abhi sirf 2, 3 baar hi hota he
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. hi
yes it's enough
and the frequency and timing may vary as we all are different
but yes, the frequency of feeling baby movements will increase now
please go for regular check-up to your gynecologist
and follow his or her suggestions
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. hi
need help and advice
my RT 18x16mm and LT 10x16mm ET 6.59
and did ovulation rest also showing fertility test C as if now , pls advice if we intercourse tomorrow then when will be my ovulation start.
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. You can check with an ovulation kit if it is positive then you can certainly go ahead with the conception because ovulation kit is going to give you 100% clarity whether you are ovulating or not with that you can try practising if you can conceive the same time
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