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Kidney Stone article by Nutritionist Laiba Anum

Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Nutrition

What are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard, solid mineral and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys when there’s an imbalance of water, salts, and other substances in the urine.

 

Causes and Symptoms

– Dehydration, diet, genetics, and medical conditions can contribute to kidney stone formation.

– Symptoms include severe pain, nausea, vomiting, blood in urine, and frequent urination.

 

Treatment Options

– Pain management, fluid intake, medical expulsion therapy, and surgery.

 

Nutrition Perspective

Foods to Limit or Avoid:

1. *Oxalate-rich foods*: Spinach, beets, rhubarb, chocolate

2. *High-sodium foods*: Processed meats, canned goods

3. *Animal protein*: Excessive consumption of meat, poultry, fish

 

Foods to Include:

1. *Citrus fruits*: Lemons, oranges, grapefruits (citrate helps prevent stones)

2. *Calcium-rich foods*: Dairy, leafy greens (calcium binds to oxalate)

3. *Hydrating foods*: Watermelon, cucumbers, celery

 

General Tips:

1. *Stay hydrated*: Drink plenty of water (at least 8-10 glasses/day)

2. *Balance diet*: Eat a variety of whole foods

3. *Monitor intake*: Limit foods that contribute to stone formation

 

Prevention

1. *Hydration*: Drink enough water

2. *Dietary balance*: Eat a balanced diet

3. *Regular check-ups*: Monitor kidney function and stone formation

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EAT SMART, PROTECT YOUR HEART BY NUTRITIONIST AREEBA AFZAL

EAT SMART, PROTECT YOUR HEART

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the world’s number one killer—but the good news is that your plate can be your strongest medicine. With the right nutrition, you can lower risks, manage existing conditions, and keep your heart strong.

HEART-HEALTHY FOOD SWAPS 🥦🥑🐟

FILL HALF YOUR PLATE WITH PLANTS: Fruits, veggies, whole grains, and beans = fiber + antioxidants.

GO FOR GOOD FATS: Olive oil, nuts, seeds, and salmon beat fried and processed foods.

CUT THE SALT & SUGAR: Too much salt raises blood pressure, and sugar fuels obesity & diabetes.

STAY HYDRATED: Water supports circulation and reduces strain on your heart.

DIETS THAT WORK:

✅ MEDITERRANEAN DIET – Fresh veggies, olive oil, fish, and nuts.

✅ DASH DIET – Focused on lowering blood pressure naturally.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Healthy eating isn’t about restriction—it’s about protection. Every bite you take can either harm or heal. Choose wisely, and let nutrition be your first step to a healthier heart and longer life.

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HEPATITIS ‘C’ By Nutritionist Falak Mazhar

🌿 Understanding Hepatitis C: Causes, Risks, Prevention, and Recovery:

Hepatitis C is a serious liver disease caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Unlike some other forms of hepatitis, Hepatitis C is often chronic, meaning it can last a lifetime and lead to severe liver damage, including cirrhosis, liver cancer, or even liver failure. But with early detection and the right treatment, Hepatitis C is now curable in most people.

❓ Why Hepatitis C Happens

Hepatitis C occurs when the Hepatitis C virus infects liver cells. The virus enters the body, usually through blood-to-blood contact, and begins to attack liver tissue. Over time, this causes inflammation, scarring, and damage.

Unlike Hepatitis A or B, there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C, making prevention and awareness even more important.

🔍 How Hepatitis C Happens

Hepatitis C is spread primarily through exposure to infected blood. Common transmission routes include:

  • Sharing needles or syringes (IV drug use)

  • Blood transfusions before 1992 (before widespread HCV screening)

  • Unsafe or unsterile tattooing or piercing

  • Accidental needle sticks in healthcare settings

  • From mother to baby during childbirth (less common)

  • Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes (rare)

It is not typically spread through casual contact, kissing, coughing, or sharing food and drinks.

⚠️ Diseases Caused by Hepatitis C

Chronic Hepatitis C can cause a range of serious health complications:

  • Chronic Liver Disease

  • Cirrhosis (liver scarring)

  • Liver Failure

  • Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma)

  • Cryoglobulinemia (immune complex disorder)

  • Glomerulonephritis (kidney damage)

  • Type 2 Diabetes (linked to liver dysfunction)

  • Fatty Liver Disease

🧓 Who Is at Risk? Age and Health Conditions

Certain individuals are at higher risk for Hepatitis C:

Age Groups:

  • People born between 1945 and 1965 (baby boomers): higher rates due to lack of early screening

  • Anyone who received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992

Health Conditions and Risk Factors:

  • People with HIV

  • People who inject drugs or have a history of IV drug use

  • Individuals on hemodialysis

  • Healthcare workers exposed to blood

  • Infants born to HCV-positive mothers

  • People with unregulated tattoos or piercings

💊 Sources to Recover from Hepatitis C

The good news is that Hepatitis C is curable in most cases with proper treatment. Recovery sources include:

1. Antiviral Medications (DAAs)

Direct-Acting Antivirals (DAAs) are highly effective and can cure 95% or more of cases. Common regimens include:

  • Sofosbuvir

  • Ledipasvir

  • Velpatasvir

  • Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir

Treatment duration is usually 8 to 12 weeks.

2. Regular Monitoring

  • Liver function tests

  • Viral load testing

  • Ultrasounds or fibroscans to monitor liver damage

3. Liver Transplant (in advanced cases)

For people with end-stage liver disease or liver cancer, transplant may be necessary.

🌱 Natural Sources for Supportive Recovery

While natural remedies cannot cure Hepatitis C, they can support liver health during and after treatment:

Liver-Supportive Foods:

  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale)

  • Garlic (natural detoxifier)

  • Beetroot (supports liver enzyme activity)

  • Turmeric (anti-inflammatory and antioxidant)

  • Avocados (rich in healthy fats)

Herbs (use only with medical advice):

  • Milk thistle (supports liver repair)

  • Dandelion root (aids digestion and detox)

  • Licorice root (anti-inflammatory)

Lifestyle Support:

  • Hydration (helps flush toxins)

  • Avoid alcohol and drugs toxic to the liver

  • Regular exercise to maintain healthy weight

🛡️ Tips to Prevent Hepatitis C

Prevention is key since no vaccine exists yet:

  1. Avoid sharing needles or syringes

  2. Use only licensed, clean tattoo/piercing studios

  3. Practice safe sex, especially with multiple partners

  4. Avoid sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes

  5. Wear gloves when handling blood or open wounds

  6. Healthcare workers should follow all safety protocols

  7. Get tested if you are at high risk

🚨 Common Symptoms of Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is often called a “silent” infection because many people don’t notice symptoms for years. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

  • Fatigue

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Abdominal pain (especially upper right side)

  • Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes)

  • Dark urine

  • Pale stool

  • Loss of appetite

  • Joint pain

  • Confusion or brain fog (in later stages)

🧪 How Is Hepatitis C Diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a blood test to detect the virus:

  1. HCV Antibody Test – Shows if you’ve ever been exposed

  2. HCV RNA Test – Confirms current infection

  3. Genotype Test – Identifies HCV strain (to tailor treatment)

  4. Liver tests/imaging – To assess damage (ALT, AST, fibroscan)

🧠 Mental and Emotional Health with Hepatitis C

Chronic illness can affect your mental health. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or anxious after diagnosis. Support options include:

  • Talking to a counselor or therapist

  • Joining a Hepatitis C support group

  • Educating yourself to reduce fear

📝 Final Thoughts

Hepatitis C is a serious but treatable disease. With proper medical treatment, healthy lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring, people with Hepatitis C can live long, healthy lives.

Stay aware, get tested if you’re at risk, and always practice safe habits to protect your liver and overall health.

✅ Quick Recap Checklist:

  • ✅ Know your risk

  • ✅ Get tested if you think you were exposed

  • ✅ Follow doctor-prescribed antiviral treatment

  • ✅ Eat liver-supportive foods

  • ✅ Avoid alcohol and harmful substances

  • ✅ Take care of your emotional well-being

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What’s the Best Diet for Weight Loss? by nutritionist laiba imran

What’s the Best Diet for Weight Loss?

This is one of the most common questions I hear: “What’s the best diet to lose weight?” It’s a fair question, but often people approach it the wrong way. Many assume they need to follow a strict or trendy diet for a short while, shed some weight, and then return to their old habits. The truth is, lasting weight loss comes not from temporary restrictions, but from making sustainable, healthier choices that become part of your everyday lifestyle.

Instead of fad diets, think in terms of balance and long-term health. Replacing less healthy foods with nourishing ones — not just for a few weeks, but as a permanent shift — supports weight loss while also protecting your heart, energy, and overall well-being. So perhaps the better question is: “What does a healthy diet look like?”

A healthy diet emphasizes natural, unprocessed foods. It includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, plenty of lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish. It’s also low in added sugars and salt.

Here are a few meal examples:

  • Breakfast: A bowl of bran flakes with strawberries, walnuts, and low-fat milk.

  • Lunch: A whole wheat turkey sandwich with lots of vegetables, dressed with olive oil and vinegar.

  • Dinner: Grilled salmon on a bed of spinach.

Snacks don’t have to disappear either. Smart snack options include almonds or pistachios, Greek yogurt, an apple with string cheese, or a banana with peanut butter.

When planning your meals, think about what healthy foods you genuinely enjoy — this makes it easier to stick with your plan. Remember, the best diet is the one you can maintain, not the one you’ll abandon in frustration.

Popular Healthy Eating Styles

There isn’t a single “perfect” diet, but there are several eating patterns that research has consistently linked to better health and weight management:

  • Mediterranean Diet: Centered around vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, whole grains, fish, olive oil, and limited red meat or sweets. It supports heart health, lowers diabetes risk, and even helps with mood and longevity.

  • DASH Diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension): Originally designed to lower blood pressure. It focuses on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fish, poultry, nuts, and healthy oils, while being low in saturated fat and sugar.

  • MIND Diet: A blend of Mediterranean and DASH, designed to support brain health. It highlights leafy greens and berries while limiting red meat and dairy.

  • Nordic Diet: Based on Scandinavian food traditions, with an emphasis on fish, whole grains like rye and oats, root vegetables, apples, and pears. It has been linked to weight loss and a lower risk of stroke.

What do they all have in common? They’re heart-healthy, plant-focused, and built around minimally processed foods.

What About Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent fasting — eating only during certain hours of the day or alternating fasting days — has gained a lot of attention. It can lower blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and help with fat loss by giving your body time to burn stored energy.

However, fasting is not necessarily more effective than a balanced calorie-controlled diet, and it can be difficult to sustain for many people. If you’re considering it, it’s best to first check with your doctor, especially if you have diabetes or heart conditions.

What About High-Fat Diets Like Keto?

The ketogenic (keto) diet is a very low-carb, high-fat approach that pushes the body into using fat for energy. It can lead to quick weight loss and better blood sugar control, but it’s challenging to maintain and may not be ideal for long-term health.

A Simple Guide: The Healthy Eating Plate

Think of your plate as a tool for balance. Here’s how to build it:

  • Half of your plate: fruits and vegetables (variety is key).

  • One-quarter: whole grains such as brown rice, oats, or whole wheat bread.

  • One-quarter: lean protein such as fish, poultry, beans, or nuts.

  • Add healthy fats like olive oil for cooking or dressings.

  • Drink mostly water, tea, or coffee with little or no sugar. Limit milk to one or two servings a day.

This simple visual can help you plan meals, shop smartly, and stay consistent.

The key takeaway: there’s no magic diet. The best plan is one that supports your health, fits your lifestyle, and is sustainable in the long run.

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Obesity – A ‘Huge’ Problem for the Heart by nutritionist laiba imran

Obesity – A ‘Huge’ Problem for the Heart

Obesity isn’t just about carrying “extra weight.” It’s a chronic condition that directly harms the cardiovascular system (heart and blood vessels). It increases the chances of developing heart disease, heart failure (when the heart can’t pump properly), irregular heartbeat, and even sudden death.

How Obesity Hurts the Heart

Extra workload on the heart
When there’s too much adipose tissue (body fat), the total blood volume (amount of blood circulating in the body) increases. The heart has to pump harder to supply oxygen and nutrients to this extra tissue. Over time, this causes:

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH – thickening of the main pumping chamber of the heart)

Atrial dilatation (stretching of the upper heart chamber)
These changes increase the risk of heart failure (weak heart pumping) and atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).

Inflammation & toxic signals from fat
Fat tissue releases adipokines (hormones/chemicals from fat cells) such as TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor – an inflammatory chemical) and IL-6 (interleukin-6 – another inflammation signal). These damage blood vessels, make them stiffer, and encourage atherosclerosis (hardening and clogging of arteries).
Sometimes, fat can even enter the heart muscle (adipositas cordis – fatty infiltration of the heart), which replaces healthy muscle with fat and scar tissue.

Clogging of arteries
Obesity accelerates atherosclerosis (plaque buildup inside arteries). Plaques are like “fatty deposits” that narrow and stiffen arteries, raising the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD – blockage of heart arteries leading to heart attack).
Belly fat (abdominal obesity) and fat around blood vessels (perivascular fat) are especially dangerous because they release chemicals that worsen artery damage.

Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
Obese individuals are more likely to have:

Prolonged QT interval (delayed heart electrical recovery, seen on ECG – can trigger dangerous rhythms)

Atrial fibrillation (fast, irregular heartbeat from the upper chambers)
Both can lead to sudden cardiac death (unexpected fatal heart event).

The “Obesity Paradox”

Some studies show that obese people with heart disease sometimes live longer than thinner patients. This is called the obesity paradox (a surprising observation where overweight patients sometimes show better survival).

But the real reason is often muscle loss in thinner patients due to serious illness (like cancer, COPD [chronic lung disease], or advanced heart failure). It’s not that obesity protects—it’s that muscle wasting (loss of lean tissue) worsens survival.

Why Weight Loss Matters

Even a 10% weight loss can make a huge difference. Benefits include:

Lower blood pressure (force of blood against artery walls)

Better blood sugar control (reduces diabetes risk)

Lower cholesterol (bad fats in the blood)

Less strain on the heart muscle

Better autonomic nervous system function (the body’s automatic system controlling heart rate and blood pressure)

Role of Exercise

Regular activity helps just as much as diet. Moderate activities (things that make you breathe a little harder but still talk) include:

Brisk walking

Cycling

Swimming

Dancing

Gardening

Playing light sports

Doing at least 30 minutes most days reduces the risk of diabetes and heart problems.

Key Takeaway

Obesity (too much body fat) is not just a “weight problem” but a serious metabolic disease (a condition that changes how the body uses energy and nutrients).

BMI (Body Mass Index – weight compared to height) is useful, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Even people with “normal weight” but high fat (normal weight obesity) are at risk.

The best way forward is balanced eating, physical activity, and lifestyle changes. For some, bariatric surgery (weight loss surgery) may be necessary if other methods fail.

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The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Dietary Patterns by Nutritionist Aiman Bint E Asim

The DASH Diet: A Simple Way to Control Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a growing health problem worldwide, including in Pakistan. While medicines help, studies show that changing the way we eat can naturally lower blood pressure. One of the most effective eating plans is the DASH Diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension).

What is the DASH Diet?

The DASH diet focuses on:

• More fruits and vegetables

• Low-fat dairy products

• Whole grains, nuts, and seeds

• Less red meat, sweets, and fatty foods

• It is also rich in calcium, potassium, and magnesium — minerals that are proven to support heart health.

Proven Results

Clinical studies found that:

– The DASH diet reduced blood pressure by 5–6 points in people with mild hypertension.

– For patients with higher blood pressure, it lowered levels by up to 11 points.

– These improvements happened without weight loss or strict salt reduction.

Why Choose DASH?

The DASH diet is simple, practical, and effective. It not only lowers blood pressure but also protects against heart disease and diabetes.

  • ✅ In short: Eat more fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy — cut down on sugary and oily foods. A small change in diet can make a big difference for your health.
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CERBRITIS BY NUTRITIONIST ALINA ZULFIQAR

Why Cerebritis Happens?

Cerebritis is inflammation of the brain tissue that occurs mainly due to bacterial or fungal infections. It usually develops when harmful microorganisms invade the brain, often spreading from infections in other parts of the body. Common reasons include:

Bacterial infections like Streptococcus or Staphylococcus

Fungal infections (more common in immunocompromised patients)

Untreated meningitis that spreads to brain tissue

Head trauma or penetrating injuries allowing germs to enter

Bloodstream infections (hematogenous spread) carrying pathogens to the brain

How Cerebritis Happens?

When infectious microorganisms reach the brain, they trigger the body’s immune response. This leads to:

1. Inflammation of brain tissue – white blood cells rush to the infected area.

2. Formation of small inflammatory cell collections – an early sign of brain abscess.

3. Progression to abscess – if untreated, cerebritis can turn into a pus-filled pocket, which can damage brain cells.

This condition can progress quickly and must be treated urgently to prevent complications like seizures, neurological damage, or even death.

Diseases Caused by Cerebritis

Cerebritis itself is a disease but may lead to or be linked with other brain-related issues such as:

Brain abscess (serious pus-filled infection)

Meningitis complications

Seizures and epilepsy

Neurological deficits like weakness, confusion, or speech problems

Age and Health Conditions at Risk

Certain groups are more vulnerable to cerebritis, including:

Children and elderly people – weaker immune systems make them more susceptible.

Immunocompromised patients – e.g., HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy patients, organ transplant recipients.

People with chronic infections – sinusitis, ear infections, dental abscesses that are untreated.

Patients with uncontrolled diabetes – higher risk of fungal infections.

Individuals with recent brain injury or surgery – open pathway for bacteria.

Sources to Recover from Cerebritis

Early treatment is crucial. The recovery plan usually includes:

High-dose intravenous antibiotics or antifungals – chosen based on the cause.

Drainage of abscess (if present) – through surgery or aspiration.

Anti-seizure medications – to control seizures if they occur.

Supportive care – fluids, nutrition, and monitoring in hospital settings.

Rehabilitation therapy – for patients with lasting neurological issues.

Natural sources for supportive recovery:

turmeric (Curcumin): Has strong anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling.

Garlic: Known for antibacterial and antifungal effects, it supports immune defense.

Ginger tea: Helps fight inflammation and boosts circulation.

Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in walnuts, chia seeds, and fish oil — support brain healing.

Vitamin C-rich foods: Oranges, kiwi, and berries improve immune function.

Probiotics: Yogurt, kefir, or fermented foods help balance gut bacteria and boost immunity.

Hydration: Drinking plenty of water supports detoxification and brain health.

Tips to Prevent Cerebritis

While cerebritis cannot always be prevented, you can reduce the risk by:

Treating infections early – sinus, ear, dental, and skin infections should not be ignored.

Boosting immunity – with a balanced diet, enough sleep, and vaccinations.

Managing chronic diseases – keep diabetes and other conditions under control.

Protecting the head from injuries – use helmets and practice safety.

Seeking prompt medical help – if experiencing persistent fever, severe headache, or neurological symptoms.

Cerebritis is a life-threatening condition but early diagnosis and aggressive treatment can save lives and prevent long-term brain damage. Stay alert to symptoms and take preventive steps to protect your brain health.

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by nutritionist Ayesha khurshid

 

What Can Magnesium Do for You — and How Much Do You Need?

This forgotten mineral is finally getting noticed.
September 24, 2025

In the world of nutrition, certain vitamins and minerals often steal the spotlight — think vitamin D, calcium, or iron. But lately, magnesium has been getting more attention. Long overlooked, this mineral is now being recognized for its many roles in keeping the body healthy.

What is magnesium?

Magnesium is an essential mineral your body needs to work properly. It supports:

Healthy nerves, muscles, and bones

A strong heart and cardiovascular system

Proper calcium and blood sugar regulation

Protein production

In fact, magnesium is involved in more than 300 chemical reactions inside the body — making it vital for overall health.

How much magnesium do you need?

The recommended daily intake is:

Women: 320 mg per day

Men: 420 mg per day

Luckily, most people can meet these needs through a balanced diet.

Signs of low magnesium

Mild deficiency may cause:

Fatigue

Nausea

Poor appetite

Severe deficiency can lead to:

Muscle cramps

Numbness or tingling

Irregular heartbeat

Low levels are more common in people with digestive issues (like Crohn’s disease), kidney disease, alcohol use disorder, or poor diets. Older adults are also at higher risk.

Can you get too much magnesium?

Yes — though it’s rare. Too much magnesium (usually from supplements or kidney problems) can cause:

Nausea

Headaches

Muscle weakness

Breathing difficulties

Best food sources of magnesium

Magnesium is found in many healthy foods, such as:

Leafy greens (spinach, kale)

Nuts and seeds (almonds, pumpkin seeds)

Whole grains

Beans

Bananas

Avocados

Dark chocolate (in moderation)

For example: a serving of spinach, a banana, and a handful of almonds gives you about 190 mg of magnesium — over half of the daily need for women.

Should you take supplements?

For most people, food is the best source of magnesium. Supplements may be helpful if you have:

A diagnosed deficiency

Certain conditions (like preeclampsia, Crohn’s disease, migraines, or insomnia)

But supplements can cause side effects like nausea or diarrhea, and they may interact with medications. Always check with your doctor first.

Types of magnesium supplements

If supplements are needed, common forms include:

Magnesium citrate – often for constipation or gut health

Magnesium glycinate– sometimes used for sleep or anxiety

Magnesium oxide – for indigestion or constipation

Daily doses under 350 mg are usually safe, unless you have kidney disease or other health issues that require closer monitoring.

✅ Bottom line: Magnesium is essential, widely available in food, and usually easy to get through a healthy diet. Supplements may help in certain cases, but food should be your first choice.

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Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy by Nutritionist Beenish Siddiqui

Definition:
It is nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It primarily affects peripheral nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness, especially in the feet and hands.

Diet Plan for Diabetic Neuropathy:

  • Breakfast: Whole wheat flour, Omelet, Milk tea, Porridge.
  • Lunch: Roast mutton, Black chickpeas and Capsicum curry and salad ( of mint    and onion ).
  • Dinner: Fish curry, Lentils, Pumpkin, Radish pods with salad ( of beetroot or          carrot ).
  • Fruits: 1 piece of ( Muskmelon/ oranges/ Apricot ).
  • Drinks: Grape juice, Goat milk, Mulberry juice.

Triggers of Diabetic Neuropathy Symptoms:

  • Poor blood sugar control (high blood sugar spikes).

  • Smoking (damages blood vessels, reducing nerve oxygen).

  • Excessive alcohol consumption.

  • Exposure to cold or injury to the affected area.

  • Prolonged pressure on nerves (tight shoes, repetitive motion).

Daily Exercise Recommendations:

  • Aim for at least 30 minutes/day: Moderate-intensity aerobic activities like walking, swimming, or cycling.

  • Include strength training: 2-3 times a week to maintain muscle mass.

  • Balance and flexibility exercises: Yoga or stretching to reduce fall risk and improve nerve function.

  • Always check your feet before and after exercise to avoid injuries.

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Vitamin A: The Eye and Immunity Vitamin By NUTRITIONIST HAMNA FATIMA

Vitamin A: The Eye and Immunity Vitamin

When people hear about Vitamin A, the first thing that often comes to mind is good eyesight. And it’s true, this vitamin plays a key role in helping us see clearly, especially in low light. But Vitamin A does much more than just protect vision.

Unlike some vitamins, Vitamin A comes in two main forms. Retinol (preformed Vitamin A) is found in animal foods like eggs, liver, fish, and dairy. Beta-carotene (provitamin A) comes from colorful fruits and vegetables such as carrots, spinach, and mangoes. Our body can convert beta-carotene into Vitamin A when needed.

Vitamin A works like a guardian: it supports growth, strengthens the immune system, keeps skin healthy, and reduces the risk of infections. Deficiency, however, is still a major problem worldwide, especially for children, causing night blindness and higher chances of illness.

That’s why Vitamin A is often called the “eye vitamin”, but its benefits go far beyond vision.