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5 hacks that can keep your tummy healthy: Weight management to eating habits
Lifestyle

5 hacks that can keep your tummy healthy: Weight management to eating habits

by jummy84
written by jummy84

A healthy stomach is crucial for a healthy body. The National Health Service (NHS) has laid out a set of everyday habits that make a surprising difference to how your stomach behaves. Just small adjustments can help your gut settle down, avoid flare-ups, and generally function the way it should. Most of these are not secrets, but the NHS notes that people rarely follow through with these measures. Here are 5 lifestyle tips for a happy, healthy gut

Avoiding heavy dinners before bed helps your gut settle.(Representative image/Unsplash)

Stress hits the stomach harder than people think

The NHS points out that stress does not stay in your head. It lands straight in your stomach. You can feel that twisty, uneasy sensation when something is weighing on you. That is your digestive balance shifting. For some people, stress slows everything down and causes bloating, constipation and a heavy, uncomfortable gut. For others, it speeds digestion up so fast that it sends them running to the bathroom.

Stress can also flare underlying conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome and stomach ulcers. The NHS says reducing stress – even in small, realistic ways – helps digestion stabilise again.

Also read: Does gut bacteria contribute to autism symptoms? Here’s what major scientific review reveals

Daily choices shape how your stomach reacts

The habit weakens the muscle that keeps stomach acid where it belongs. Once that barrier softens, acid shoots back up and triggers reflux. Heartburn becomes the norm. Smoking also heightens the risk of stomach cancer and aggravates other inflammatory gut issues.

Improving eating habits

Eating habits matter just as much. According to the NHS, rushing through meals is one of the biggest mistakes. Slowing down, chewing properly and keeping portions sensible give your digestive system a fighting chance. Eating regular meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding heavy dinners right before bed helps your gut settle.

Also read: Study reveals how analysing natural speech can help in research cognitive decline. Here’s what we know

Weight management is the key

Weight also plays a role. Excess abdominal fat pushes against the stomach, and the NHS says that pressure makes heartburn worse. Losing even a small amount can calm symptoms.

Alcohol becomes a problem when you go too far

Moderate drinking is fine, the NHS says, but binge drinking is not. Those heavy sessions spike acid production, stir up irritation and set off heartburn or other digestive discomforts. The definition is simple: too much alcohol in one go.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

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Dr. Steven Gundry Shares His Celeb-Approved Wellness Hacks for Staying Healthy All Holiday Season
Hollywood

Dr. Steven Gundry Shares His Celeb-Approved Wellness Hacks for Staying Healthy All Holiday Season

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Have a happy and healthy holiday! Dr. Steven Gundry, the expert behind transformations from stars like Kelly Clarkson and Usher, is sharing his top wellness tips with ET just in time for the 2026 holiday season.

Before you hit a holiday party, Gundry says a little prep can go a long way.

“Eat a handful of the right nuts beforehand to you’re not starving and tempted to eat things you wouldn’t normally have,” he advises.

Think: Hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, and walnuts. But proceed with caution when it comes to pistachio nuts before a long night out.

Getty Images

“Pistachios are a natural source of melatonin, so they might make you sleepy,” he notes.

Once you’re in party mode, hydration is key, especially if you’re enjoying celebratory cocktails.

“If you plan on drinking alcohol, have a big glass of water between each beverage, or aim to sip one drink throughout the event,” he says.

If alcoholic beverages aren’t on your menu, Gundry still has a festive fix. 

Gundry MD

“Get a cocktail glass full of sparkling water, add a lime slice, and act like you are sipping on a gin and tonic. … Drinking sparkling water will also help fill you up,” The Gut-Brain Paradox author explains. 

When it’s time for dinner, load up on greens before diving into other dishes.

“Fill your plate with a majority of veggie sides and make the carb-rich sides and meat the minor part of your plate.”

After you’ve eaten, don’t just settle into a seat. Instead, take a lap around the party.

Gundry MD

“Studies show that going for a quick walk after eating aids in digestion and supports maintaining a healthy weight,” Gundry shares. 

Of course, if you stray from the plan, The International Heart and Lung Institute and The Centers for Restorative Medicine founder recommends giving your body a little extra love at the end of the night.

“Overindulging on either food or alcohol can happen if the conversation is flowing and you’re having a good time, but before you go to bed, take chlorophyll and H2 water to help flush out the toxins.”

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Want your home to be Diwali-ready? 8 colour combinations and decor styling hacks you need to know
Lifestyle

Want your home to be Diwali-ready? 8 colour combinations and decor styling hacks you need to know

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Published on: Oct 14, 2025 01:49 pm IST

Diwali 2025: Refresh your home with these expert-approved festive-ready colours and styling hacks. 

Diwali 2025: In the days leading up to Diwali, homeowners are ready to give their homes the biggest glow up of the year, refreshing every corner of their interiors with devotion and creativity. Walls get a fresh coat of paint, and new trinkets from Diwali shopping hauls are added to the shelves and tabletops. At the centre of all this decoration lies a creative vision. While all Diwali decoration has staples like garlands, lanterns and diyas, every house has a different story to tell on the festival of lights.

Find out the top colour combinations for your home. (Picture credit: AI generated)

ALSO READ: Diwali 2025: 4 special lighting hacks to create cosy festive interiors

And what better way to personalise your Diwali decor revamp story? With colours. The colours you choose impart your home with a personality itself. To understand which colours suit together for Diwali decoration, Sidhant Lamba, Founder at STRROT, shared with HT Lifestyle 4 colour combinations, why they work, along with 4 styling hacks for decor placement.

4 colour combinations

Colour theory is real, and the colour wheel is not just for your art class. It is the key to deciding which colours fit together well, helping to create balanced and vibrant colour palettes. This Diwali, be strategic with your decoration instead of making it a shot in the dark.

Here are the 4 combos Sidhant suggested, while we paired AI-generated images for your visual reference:

1. Gold and red:

The combination of gold and red is very regal. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
The combination of gold and red is very regal. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
  • Value: A classic combination that never fails. The pair is opulent, grand and captures the festive warmth.
  • Gold adds luxury, while red adds warmth.
  • Use this duo in cushions, accent chairs, or tableware for instant festive charm.

2. Emerald green and sapphire blue:

The green and blue combination feels elegant. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
The green and blue combination feels elegant. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
  • Value: Rich jewel colour combination tones that feel both bold and elegant.
  • This can be applied to luxurious velvets paired with metallics for a luxurious mood.

3. Ivory and burnt orange:

For a minimalistic mood, go for orange and ivory. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
For a minimalistic mood, go for orange and ivory. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
  • Value: A subtle yet striking palette, but it is soft and calming at the same time. It is more grounded.
  • Ivory keeps things warm, soft and timeless, while orange adds natural and earthy tone, zest through lamps, ceramics, or dining accessories.

4. Blush pink and antique gold:

The pair of pink and champagne gold is whimsical and romantic in nature. (Picture credit: Image generated by AI.)
The pair of pink and champagne gold is whimsical and romantic in nature. (Picture credit: Image generated by AI.)
  • Value: It is romantic and dreamy.
  • Pair soft blush tones with warm gold in trays, fabrics, or glassware to create intimate, elegant and romantic settings.

4 decor styling tips

The whole story doesn’t end with colours. Your big decor revamp season is also about paying attention to the details, from pairing textures to keeping a space uncluttered.

Here are the 4 tips Sidhant suggested:

1. Play with textures:

A wooden table with ceramic pots next to a velvet sofa is great for visual interest, playing with textures. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini )
A wooden table with ceramic pots next to a velvet sofa is great for visual interest, playing with textures. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini )
  • Pair a velvet sofa with metallic trays or ceramic vases and glassware. It instantly adds depth and makes your space feel styled with ease.

2. Don’t crowd your room, align the decor:

  • One bold cushion, quirky lamp, or striking sculpture is enough to make a statement piece rather than making your space cluttered.

3. Lights:

Add lanters, fairylights, diyas for illuminating your homes. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
Add lanters, fairylights, diyas for illuminating your homes. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
  • The warmth from lamps, candles, or fairy lights does more than brighten up your room; they can make colours glow and create that perfect festive vibe.

4. Attention to detail:

  • Large items shine brighter with small details, so we can try to pair a grand console with cute trays or dress up a big sofa with soft, comfy cushions.

Now that you have the inside intel to make your interiors the talk of the town and the favourite place to crash for Diwali parties, it’s time to apply all these in practice and get festive ready for this weekend. Who knows? Your interiors may become the Pinterest board for your friends and family for next Diwali’s great decor revamp.

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Diwali 2025: 4 special lighting hacks to create cosy festive interiors
Lifestyle

Diwali 2025: 4 special lighting hacks to create cosy festive interiors

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Updated on: Oct 13, 2025 05:29 pm IST

Brighten up your home this Diwali with the help of 4 smart lighting hacks. From exercising balance to layering, know all the tricks here. 

Diwali 2025: As homeowners enthusiastically prepare their houses for the festival of light, from dusting every shelf to repainting walls, one aspect cohesively and irrevocably reflects the festive cheer: lighting. How you choose to illuminate your home refreshes the mood. It is only fitting that the lighting check boxes are dutifully ticked off for the festival of light.

Diwali 2025: Find out how to illuminate your home with smart lighting hacks. (Picture credit: Pixabay)

ALSO READ: Diwali 2025 calendar: When is Diwali, Choti Diwali? Check out dates for Dhanteras, Bhai Dooj and all 5 days of Deepawali

When it comes to Diwali, lighting often begins and ends with fairy lights and diyas, but there’s so much more to explore. Creating a well-rounded, well-lit space requires strategy while also retaining the warmth and intimacy of festive fervour at the very heart of the lighting arrangement.

To achieve a cohesive lighting strategy, Anupriyam Arora, Design Lead, MagickHome, shared with HT Lifestyle 4 key hacks for this Diwali season. According to her, lighting transcends the purpose of utility as it is also about emotion. Emphasising the value of proper light arrangement on Diwali, she said, “If walls are the bones of a home, then lighting is its heartbeat.” This also highlights that festive decor’s revamp isn’t only confined to painting walls, as your illumination techniques also require your diligent attention.

Here are the 4 lighting hacks Anupriyam suggested:

1. Layer lights

Layer lighting in your room to create an effect of 'layers.'(Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
Layer lighting in your room to create an effect of ‘layers.'(Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
  • Start with layers. A common mistake is relying on a single overhead light.
  • Instead, think in terms of ambient, task, and accent lighting.
  • Ambient lighting creates the overall glow, task lighting helps you focus in areas like the kitchen or study, and accent lighting adds drama by spotlighting art, textures, or architectural details.
  • Together, these layers make a space versatile and dynamic.

2. Avoid overlighting

Don't go overboard; find a balance. Avoid overlighting!(Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
Don’t go overboard; find a balance. Avoid overlighting!(Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
  • A critical point that is often overlooked is overlighting.
  • Too many fixtures or overly bright lights can create harsh shadows, glare, and visual clutter, which can actually make a space feel smaller or uncomfortable.
  • Effective lighting is always about balance – enough to illuminate and highlight, but carefully controlled to maintain warmth, depth, and mood.

3. Add statement lights

Add statement chandeliers to your interiors. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
Add statement chandeliers to your interiors. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
  • A statement chandelier can be the jewel of a dining room, while pendant lights bring intimacy to a breakfast nook.
  • Wall sconces or floor lamps can add warmth and depth without major renovation.

4. Amplify natural light wherever possible

Leverage natural light with the help of mirror placements. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
Leverage natural light with the help of mirror placements. (Picture credit: Image generated by Gemini)
  • Natural light is the most underrated design element.
  • Play with sheer curtains, mirrors, and reflective surfaces to amplify daylight – it instantly makes rooms feel bigger and more welcoming.

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Nutritionist explains why skin becomes saggy after weight loss, suggests 3 hacks to prevent it
Lifestyle

Nutritionist explains why skin becomes saggy after weight loss, suggests 3 hacks to prevent it

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Updated on: Sept 13, 2025 05:40 pm IST

After weight loss, the areas that stored excess fat, like belly or arms, can develop wrinkled skin. Nutritionist Dr Shikha Singh shares how you can prevent it. 

Reaching your desired weight goal is a major achievement, especially for those who have been working to lose weight for a long time. But weight loss, particularly for obese individuals, can come with the side effect of loose and saggy skin. The skin loses its firmness and may appear creased, wrinkled, or jiggly due to increased softness.

Weight loss causes the skin to sag. (Representative Image: Pexel)

ALSO READ: Weight loss coach suggests 4 strength training exercises for women to target back rolls, flabby arms and belly fat

But, this side effect can be minimised by following some key habits that support skin elasticity and improve firmness.

Dr Shikha Singh, a clinical nutritionist who often shares insights on fitness, revealed in an August 12 Instagram post why skin sags after weight loss and how one can avoid it.

Why does skin sag after weight loss?

Dr Singh drew an interesting analogy to explain why skin sags. She took two balloons, one in a normal deflated state, and the other that she inflated and then released all the air from. The balloon that had been inflated appeared wrinkled compared to the one that was not filled. According to Dr Singh, the same principle applies to our fat cells.

She explained in Hindi, “This is what happens with our fat cells. When we gain weight, fat fills up in our fat cells and they expand. When we lose weight, the fat leaves, and the fat cells shrink, but they don’t return to their original shape. Fat cells stay ready so that if we gain weight again, they can quickly store fat again.”

How to avoid loose skin?

To maintain skin firmness after losing weight, Dr Singh recommended adding protein to every meal. Second, she suggested drinking three litres of water throughout the day to stay well hydrated. And lastly, she advised staying active by doing 30-45 minutes of brisk walking daily and including strength training after weight loss.

Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them. This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.

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Nutritionist shares 5 hydration hacks beyond plain water: Coconut water to buttermilk
Lifestyle

Nutritionist shares 5 hydration hacks beyond plain water: Coconut water to buttermilk

by jummy84
written by jummy84

There’s a popular notion that we only need 8 glasses of water in a day to stay hydrated. However, that’s not true. Hydration is not a one-size-fits-all. In fact, the amount of hydration that the body needs depend on several factors such as age, activity level, climate, and even life stages like pregnancy or breastfeeding. Also read | Is water enough this summer? Doctor shares 10 hydration tips for staying refreshed in the heat

Coconut water is one of the best natural drinks for hydration.(Photo: Adobe Stock)

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Nausheen Shaikh, nutritionist and diet consultant at Alyve Health said, “When you don’t get enough fluids, dehydration can sneak up on you. The good news? Staying hydrated doesn’t have to be boring. Beyond plain water, there are natural, nutrient-rich drinks that not only quench your thirst but also replenish electrolytes, support digestion, and cool your body from within.”

The nutritionist further suggested 5 drinks that help you hydrate better:

1. Coconut water

It is one of the best natural drinks for hydration. Packed with electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and magnesium, it helps replenish lost fluids and keeps your body refreshed. Unlike sugary sports drinks, coconut water is low in calories and free from artificial additives, making it a healthy choice for staying hydrated.

2. Infused water

If plain water tastes boring to you, you can consume infused water with flavour of fresh fruits like apple slices, mint leaves, kiwi slices. You may also add 1 tsp basil seeds to it for cooling effect.

Infused water is a good combination of flavour and health benefits.(Pexels)
Infused water is a good combination of flavour and health benefits.(Pexels)

3. Lemon water

The combination of water and fresh lemon juice helps detoxify the body, improve digestion, and maintain hydration levels. Adding a pinch of salt or honey enhances its benefits, making it a perfect drink for hot days. Also read | How to hydrate your skin the right way? Dermatologists share essential tips

4. Buttermilk

Made by mixing curd with water and adding spices like cumin and mint, buttermilk is packed with probiotics that promote gut health while keeping you hydrated and refreshed.

5. Watermelon juice

Watermelon juice helps maintain electrolyte balance, supports digestion, and provides a dose of antioxidants that protect the body from heat and stress. Adding a squeeze of lime or a pinch of black salt enhances its flavour and cooling effects.

“Hydration doesn’t have to feel like a chore; it can be refreshing, flavourful, and nourishing. Swapping a few glasses of plain water with these natural options can help you stay cool, energised, and ready to take on the day,” added Nausheen Shaikh. Also read | Summer means hydration: 7 easy hacks for people who forget to drink water

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

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