How does fiber make the stomach feel 'light'? Fiber is a type of carbohydrate—existing in both soluble and insoluble forms—that can help alleviate constipation and promote regular bowel movements. Fiber is a carbohydrate that our digestive system cannot fully digest; consequently, it mostly passes through the digestive tract and is eliminated from the body. This characteristic allows fiber to play a crucial role in the health of the stomach and intestines. There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber mixes with water to form a gel-like substance. It can help slow down digestion, regulate blood sugar levels , and assist in managing cholesterol. Foods such as oats , barley, apples, oranges, beans, and peas contain soluble fiber. Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, does not dissolve in water. It adds bulk to the stool and helps it move smoothly through the intestines. Wheat bran , whole grains, certain vegetables, fruit skins, and nuts contain this type of...
Nutraceuticals: Should patients not be told or an unnecessary financial burden? With the expansion of the market for nutraceuticals and dietary supplements in Nepal , debates have increased about their registration, quality, price, recommendation, and sales and distribution. A patient goes to the hospital with general weakness, fatigue, or body aches. After an examination, the doctor recommends vitamins, minerals, omega-3, probiotics, or other supplements along with medicine. When it comes time to pay the bill for the medicine at the pharmacy, patients are shocked. Supplements are actually very expensive. And the question arises in their minds – are all these medicines not to be taken? The market for nutraceuticals and dietary supplements is expanding in Nepal. There is a constant debate about their use, registration, quality, price, medical recommendation, and sales and distribution. This raises the main question – are nutraceuticals a real need of patients or not? What are nutra...