Life & Style

When Lauren Sánchez strapped in for her Blue Origin suborbital flight, she wasn’t just blasting off into space, she was launching an entirely new frontier in fashion. Gone are the days of boxy, utilitarian space suits. This was high-stakes style at 350,000 feet. Think less astronaut, more intergalactic ‘It’ girl.

Sánchez was joined by an all-women crew that reads like a red carpet guest list with serious brains: Katy Perry, Gayle King, rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, activist Amanda Nguyen, and producer Kerianne Flynn. But while the mission was historic, the wardrobe was downright futuristic. The crew turned the capsule into a catwalk, proving once and for all that space travel and sartorial flair can absolutely coexist.

The custom electric-blue jumpsuits were designed by Monse’s Fernando Garcia and Laura Kim, a label known for its edgy tailoring and urban polish. Forget the gender-neutral gear of past missions; these suits were sleek, body-hugging, and purpose-built for both performance and polish. Crafted from flame-resistant stretch neoprene (yes, fashion tech is real), they featured zippered flares, sharp belts, and sculpted silhouettes that wouldn’t look out of place at Paris Couture Week.
Garcia summed up the aesthetic as “flattering and sexy,” motocross meets high-altitude ski goddess. Sánchez? She called them “elegant with a little spice,” and honestly, it’s the perfect tagline for the look. Equal parts space-age functionality and femme fatale fantasy, the ensemble was a high-fashion flex on zero gravity.

This wasn’t a last-minute outfit moment. According to Page Six, every astronaut had their body 3D-scanned to ensure the jumpsuits fit like a glove. Even the underwear wasn’t left to chance. When asked about her under-suit essentials, Sánchez dropped the bombshell: “Skims,” she said, casually name-dropping BFF Kim Kardashian’s shapewear empire. Space-approved and Kardashian-endorsed? That’s next-level brand placement.

And yes, there was glam. Lots of it. “Who wouldn’t get glam before a spaceflight?” Sánchez told Elle, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. Katy Perry, never one to miss a mic-drop moment, chimed in: “We’re going to put the ass in astronaut.” Lash extensions were apparently part of the prep too. As Sánchez joked, “We’re going to have lash extensions flying in the capsule!” Talk about lift-off.

Back on Earth, there was one more headline-worthy moment, this time courtesy of Jeff Bezos. The Amazon founder was so eager to greet his fiancée after her safe return that he made a dramatic dive (read: tripped into a ditch) in front of the cameras. One minute, billionaire in blue; the next, push-up position recovery on live TV. The internet, of course, had a field day.
“Bezos was so excited to hug his fiancée post-landing, he tripped and hit the ground. Billionaire moves, grace not included,” one user posted on X. Another quipped, “That’s why he sent the women first.” Fashionably late, literally.

This wasn’t just a spaceflight. It was a moment. Watching from the ground were Khloé Kardashian, Kris Jenner, Oprah Winfrey, and even little Daisy Bloom, Perry’s daughter. As the capsule soared above Texas, it wasn’t just a launch, it was a statement. Women leading the mission. Women setting the style agenda. Women proving that couture can, in fact, survive zero gravity.

Blue Origin rocket carrying Katy Perry and all-female crew reaches edge of space, returns safely Jeff Bezos with his fiancée Lauren Sánchez; New Shepherd 31 capsule; Katy Perry

With just 11 minutes of flight time, Blue Origin’s NS-31 wasn’t long but the legacy it leaves? Stratospheric. From those made-to-measure jumpsuits to space-certified shapewear and the most glam pre-launch rituals we’ve ever seen, this mission was as much about redefining femininity and power as it was about pushing scientific boundaries.
Because if we’re going to the stars, we might as well do it in custom Monse.

Turmeric, a traditional Indian spice, offers beauty benefits, while curcumin, its active compound, provides more potent effects. Turmeric is excellent for brightening skin and promoting scalp health, curcumin targets acne, aging, and hair loss with precision. Both are valuable additions to beauty routines, offering natural and science-backed solutions for skin and hair.

Turmeric has been a staple in Indian households for generations – used in food, healing remedies, and beauty rituals alike. From haldi ceremonies to DIY face packs, it’s been our go-to for everything from glowing skin to a quick zit fix. But lately, curcumin, the star compound inside turmeric, has been getting its own moment in the spotlight.
So, what’s the real difference between turmeric and curcumin? Can you use them interchangeably in your beauty routine? And more importantly, how do they actually help your skin and hair? Let’s break it down.

Turmeric is that vibrant yellow-orange spice that comes from the root of the Curcuma longa plant. In Ayurveda and traditional medicine, it’s been used for over 4,000 years for everything from digestion to skin issues. When it comes to beauty, it’s known for being anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and packed with antioxidants.

Curcumin is the active compound found in turmeric. It’s what gives turmeric its signature colour and most of its powerful healing properties. But here’s the catch, turmeric only contains about 2 to 5% curcumin. That’s why curcumin is often extracted and used in supplements or skincare products for more targeted benefits.
In simple terms:

Turmeric is the whole spice (with lots of benefits).
Curcumin is the most potent part of it.

1. For brighter, clearer skin
Turmeric:
Turmeric has always been a favourite for brightening the complexion. It helps with pigmentation, dullness, and dark spots, and leaves your skin with that post-facial glow. Used in a face mask, it gently exfoliates and revives tired-looking skin.
Curcumin:
This one works on a deeper level. Curcumin helps reduce melanin production (which causes dark spots), making it super effective for evening out skin tone and fading acne scars when used in serums or creams.
2. Fighting acne and inflammation
Turmeric:
With its antibacterial properties, turmeric can calm breakouts and reduce oiliness. It also soothes redness, which makes it ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Curcumin:
Curcumin takes it a step further by directly targeting the bacteria that cause acne. It also helps with post-acne inflammation and may speed up healing, making it great for long-term acne control.
3. Anti-ageing benefits
Turmeric:
Thanks to its antioxidant properties, turmeric helps protect your skin from environmental stress, UV rays, and pollution. It supports elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines over time.
Curcumin:
Curcumin is a powerhouse when it comes to ageing skin. It promotes collagen production and slows down enzymes that break down skin structure. Basically, it helps keep your skin firm, plump, and youthful for longer.

1. Dandruff control and scalp health
Turmeric:
Applied as a paste or mask, turmeric can soothe an itchy, flaky scalp. It helps reduce dandruff, scalp irritation, and even mild fungal infections.
Curcumin:
Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory properties are especially useful if you’re dealing with conditions like scalp psoriasis or dermatitis. It also improves blood circulation in the scalp, which means a healthier environment for hair to grow.
2. Preventing hair fall and boosting growth
Turmeric:
Turmeric-infused hair oils or masks can help detoxify the scalp and strengthen hair from the roots. While results take time, it’s a great natural approach to hair fall.
Curcumin:
Curcumin shows promise in reducing DHT—a hormone linked to hair loss, especially in men. If you’re dealing with pattern baldness or thinning hair, curcumin-based treatments might be worth looking into.

If you’re into simple, natural beauty routines and love whipping up DIY face packs at home, turmeric is your go-to. It’s easy to find, budget-friendly, and safe for most skin types (as long as you don’t overdo it).

But if you’re looking for more targeted, high-performance skincare, especially for concerns like pigmentation, stubborn acne, or signs of ageing – curcumin is the more potent choice. You’ll usually find it in high-quality serums or supplements designed to go deep and deliver results.

Turmeric can stain your skin a little yellow if you use too much. Curcumin, on the other hand, is usually processed to avoid staining and increase absorption. Also, curcumin is often combined with black pepper extract or oil-based carriers in supplements or creams to boost its effectiveness.

DIY turmeric face pack
Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric with 2 tablespoons of yoghurt or honey. Add a few drops of rose water if you like. Apply to clean skin for 10–15 minutes, then rinse for soft, glowing skin.
Curcumin-infused skincare
Look for curcumin in products like brightening serums, acne treatments, or antioxidant-rich moisturisers. These are usually more stable and targeted than raw turmeric and better for consistent use.

Turmeric and curcumin are both amazing for skin and hairbut they’re not exactly the same. Turmeric is the all-rounder that’s perfect for home remedies and gentle care. Curcumin is the more concentrated version, great for tackling specific concerns with science-backed precision.
Whether you are reaching for your haldi dabba or a fancy curcumin serum, there’s no denying that this golden ingredient is a beauty essential worth exploring.

With the rising mercury, the need for foods and beverages that can have a cooling effect on the body is increasing. And thanks to social media, people are now going the traditional way with options like chaach, sattu sharbat, and kanji rice. From actresses like Neetu Singh and R. Madhavan to Athiya Shetty, many of them swear by Kanji Rice during summer months and enjoy it as breakfast, as it helps keep the body cool throughout the day. For the unversed, kanji rice is known by different names in other states as well. In Odisha, it is Pakhala Bhaat; Panta Bhaat in Bengal and Assam; and Pazhaya Sadam in Tamil Nadu. It is a traditional and nourishing dish made by boiling rice in excess water, which is fermented overnight at room temperature. It is light, hydrating, and easy to digest and has been a staple in many Indian and Asian households—especially during summer or recovery from illness. Packed with essential nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and minerals, kanji rice not only replenishes energy but also supports digestion, boosts immunity, and helps cool the body naturally. When fermented, it becomes a natural probiotic, promoting gut health and enhancing nutrient absorption. It is mostly served with a side of mashed potatoes, sliced onions, roasted red chili, salt, and pepper.
What study says?
As per a study published by the International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy, Kanji (comes under Shukta Sandhana Varga) is prepared for the internal administration. As said in Ayurvedic classics the internal administration of kanji affects the working of Agni (digestive power) and it is the root cause for the origin of all types of diseases. These diseases are directly or indirectly related with the inappropriate running of the Agni.

Improves digestion
Rice water is rich in fiber and probiotics that soothe several digestive ailments like food poisoning, diarrhoea, and indigestion. It is said that starch present in rice kanji stimulates the production of good bacteria in the stomach that promotes healthy bowel movements. It also helps calm acidity, bloating, and gastritis, making it ideal for people with sensitive digestion. When allowed to ferment overnight, kanji becomes rich in natural probiotics, which feed the gut microbiome and support healthy bowel movements.

Boost energy
As per PharmsEasy website, rice water is good for providing the body with instant energy. It is also rich in carbohydrates that help the body to derive energy by breaking it down. Its mild anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe internal inflammation, which plays a role in many chronic health issues and weakens immunity over time.
Boost immunity
It is rich in nutrients like B vitamins, magnesium, and iron, which are important for energy production and strengthening the body’s immune response, which aids boosting immunity during summers.
Prevents dehydration
During summers, it is suggested to consume kanji rice as it helps you stay hydrated for longer duration and also protects you from heat stroke. It will also replenish all nutrients and water that are lost due to sweating during this season.

Good for hair growth
Kanji rice is rich in amino acids, vitamin E, and minerals that make hair smooth, strong and shiny during extreme heat and also help them grow faster. The nutrients in kanji help strengthen the hair shaft from root to tip, reducing breakage, hair fall, and split ends. It is said that when used regularly, kanji rice can stimulate follicles, encourage new growth, and help thicken hair naturally.

Promotes healthy skin
It is rich in vitamin B, E, and ferulic acid, which helps brighten dull skin and even out the complexion, giving you a natural glow. Its anti-inflammatory properties make rice water ideal for soothing sunburns, rashes, and sensitive skin, especially in the summer.Regular consumption of kanji rice acts as a natural astringent, helping to tighten pores and give your skin a smooth, firm look. It is also packed with antioxidants that help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots by protecting the skin from free radical damage.

How to make Kanji Rice
1 cup rice, 3 cups water, 1 tbsp mustard oil, 1 tsp mustard seeds, 1 sprig curry leaves, 1 onion, salt, black pepper, 1 tbsp coriander leaves, and 2 boiled potatoes.

Method
Cook rice and avoid draining out the excess water. Cover and keep it in a dark area overnight and let it ferment. Next morning, make a tempering of oil, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Add it to the fermented rice along with salt and pepper. Top it with roasted red chilli and serve with spiced mashed potatoes on the side.
Thumb and Embed Images Courtesy: istock

Colour: Pastel Pink, Lilac, Aqua, and Butter Yellow

Brand: New Balance

Approx. Price: ₹9,000 – ₹10,500

For those who want colour and comfort, the New Balance 574 Pastel Pack hits the sweet spot. With suede and mesh in dreamy multicolour tones, this sneaker is easy on the eyes and the feet. Bonus points for its sustainability factor—some pairs use eco-conscious materials.

Where it shines: Perfect for spring/summer style, and an easy gateway into colourful sneakers if you’re usually a neutral lover.

Laziness is not always about being idle—it can also be a signal of a tired body, a restless mind, or low motivation. Ancient Indian wisdom offers several powerful techniques that help energise the body, sharpen focus, and improve daily productivity. These practices, rooted in Ayurveda, Yoga, and Vedic traditions, are designed to align the body and mind naturally with the rhythms of nature. Even today, these age-old habits continue to work wonders when practiced regularly.

Here are such ancient Indian techniques that genuinely help in overcoming laziness and increasing productivity, naturally and effectively.

Amidst the thwack of shuttlecocks and the thump of cricket balls a new sound echoes across the neighbourhoods of Coimbatore: the lively, distinct pop of a pickleball paddle meeting its plastic foe. From gated communities to newly minted indoor arenas, the city is warming up to the paddle sport.

Pickleball — a sport that fuses elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis — is fast becoming the racket sport of choice for many in the city. It is easy to pick up, affordable, and surprisingly addictive.

For 40-year-old paediatrician Dr Charanya Anbuselvan, the sport has become more than a hobby — it is a lifestyle. “I started playing pickleball two years ago, thanks to my sister. I recently won a tournament in Pattaya,” she says. “Tennis was hard to keep up with because of time and court access, and it demands more fitness. Pickleball is much more accessible — I even recommend it to my patients and their parents.”

Charanya plays regularly at an outdoor court, next to her clinic in Chinnavedampatti, which opened to the public in August 2024. Weekend slots are hard to come by now. “We’re also working on forming a pickleball association in Coimbatore,” she adds.

At Neon Pickleball arena in Coimbatore
| Photo Credit:
Periasamy M. Shot On OnePlus #FramesofIndia

From curiosity to craze

The sport’s charm lies in its simplicity — a smaller court than tennis, underhand serves, and a plastic ball with holes make for easy entry. Santhosh Punithavelu, a businessman, discovered pickleball through his brother in the US. “We used to play cricket, but that needs a group. Pickleball just needs four people for doubles. Now, I play regularly.”

Others echo the social connection of the game. Deepak Kumar, another recent convert, was introduced to the sport by fellow dads at his child’s school. “Now we’re all good friends. It’s not just about fitness — it builds real connections.”

That community spirit is what inspired entrepreneurs like Surender Vittel to bet on the sport. Along with Ashvin Kumar, Murugappan S, and Varun, he co-founded Neon Pickleball in Kalapatti, which became operational last November. “When we entered the sports space, pickleball stood out. We saw it booming in cities like Chennai and Bengaluru. So, we decided to bring it here,” he says.

Since launch, Neon, the only indoor pickleball court in the city, has hosted a tournament and a sold-out masterclass by former tennis player and national-level pickleballer Vimalraj Jayachandran. “People came from Madurai, Trichy, Salem and Chennai. The feedback was incredible,” says Surender. “Now, we get bookings every hour — mornings and evenings are full, and even weekends are double-packed.”

The facility opens at 6.30am and runs till 10.30pm, with each slot running 30 minutes. But you must book at least two. “People love it — even if only two come, they’ll book the full court. The energy is great.”

His business partner, Ashvin Kumar, jokes about his own first encounter. “I thought pickleball had something to do with pickles — like oorga,” he laughs. “But after trying it for 30 minutes, I was sweating and smiling. I had never played a sport before, but I was hooked.”

Ashvin believes pickleball is a sport for those who never had one. “Most people want to play something, but don’t know how to start. Pickleball is the gateway. It’s accessible and makes you feel good about yourself.”

Zero Zero Two pickleball centre in Coimbatore
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangment

Early movers

Zero Zero Two in Ponniah Raja Puram, founded by Kush Pasari and his friend in October 2024 was one of the first pickleball centres in Coimbatore. “I initially suggested badminton, but my friend proposed pickleball,” Kush recalls.

Now, the city has several centres — including AFS in Saibaba Colony and Hercules Pickleball Centre. “We are building a community,” says Kush. “Every court has its own WhatsApp group to guide new players. All of the courts can also be booked through apps like Turf Town. We offer discounts to school kids during the day and host regular tournaments. On weekends, families book the court for hours. Everyone plays — kids, parents, even grandparents.”

Their business has doubled in six months, from ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakhs in monthly revenue. “Despite new courts opening, demand is growing. The more people see it, the more they want to try.”

Kush believes in a pan-India future for the brand. “We’ve had inquiries from other cities. We want to open more Zero Zero Two courts. Our goal is to build a community, not just a business.”

Vimalraj Jayachandran
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Olympic dreams

The sport’s momentum is not restricted to Coimbatore. National player and TV commentator Vimalraj notes the surge in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

“No one imagined this growth,” he says. “Even Thoothukudi has courts now. You don’t need a sports background to enjoy it. I’ve seen 60-year-olds play with joy.”

His workshop in Coimbatore drew 60 participants across four sessions. “The turnout was amazing — lots of women, lots of enthusiasm. We’re planning another one soon.”

He also sees investment potential. “Many business owners in Coimbatore have approached me to understand how to open courts or invest in leagues. The city has the appetite — and the talent — to make a mark nationally.”

Vimalraj hopes the sport gets Olympic recognition. “India could genuinely win a medal in pickleball. We’re strong, especially in the south. With leagues being planned, even involving film stars, this could be the next IPL-style phenomenon.”

Mehul Choksi, the absconding diamond jeweller has been detained in Belgium. He will be extradited to India in connection for his alleged involvement in the Rs 13,000 crore PNB bank loan ‘fraud’ case. Choksi, his nephew and fugitive diamond trader Nirav Modi and their family members and employees, bank officials and others were booked by the two agencies in 2018 for perpetrating the alleged loan fraud at the Brady House branch of PNB in Mumbai.
ED alleged that Choksi, his firm Gitanjali Gems and others “committed the offence of cheating against Punjab National Bank in connivance with certain bank officials by fraudulently getting the LOUs (letters of undertaking) issued and got the FLCs (foreign letter of credit) enhanced without following prescribed procedure and caused a wrongful loss to the bank.” After the scam came to light in January 2018, Mehul Choksi fled to the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda, where he had secured citizenship. The following month, in February 2018, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) began its pursuit to track him down.

Born as Mehul Chinubhai Choksi, on May 5, 1959 in Bombay, Mehul Choksi completed his education at GD Modi College in Palanpur Gujarat. Mehul Choksi has a brother named Chetan Chinubhai Choksi. Mehul Choksi is the cousin of fugitive businessman Nirav Modi.
Mehul Choksi owns Gitanjali Group, which includes the Gitanjali Gems which he took over from his dad’s leadership in 1985.

Mehul Choksi is married to Priti Choksi and the couple has two children, Priyanka Choksi and Rohan Choksi. As per reports, Mehul Choksi has been living with his wife in Antwerp. Reports say he had F residency card to stay in Belgium. The F Residency Card in Antwerp (and across Belgium) is a residence permit issued to non-EU nationals who are family members of EU or Belgian citizens. It grants the holder the right to reside and work in Belgium, typically after a successful family reunification application. The card is usually valid for five years and can be renewed. It allows access to public services, healthcare, and employment, similar to Belgian nationals. After five years of continuous legal stay, holders may apply for permanent residency. The F card helps facilitate integration for families of EU citizens living in Belgium, including in cities like Antwerp. Mehul Choksi’s wife is a Belgium citizen.
While Mehul Choksi’s daughter Priyanka Choksi is married to Akash Mehta, his son Rohan Choksi is married to Snagda Talera, the daughter of Neha Talera of Talera Auto.
Professionally, Rohan played a significant role in his father’s international business operations. According to a statement by Farhad K. Wadia, former CEO of Samuels Jewelers, Rohan, along with his wife Snagda and aunt Neena Seth, oversaw Voyager Brands in Austin, Texas, acting as Mehul Choksi’s representatives in the U.S. Also, a U.S. bankruptcy court investigation revealed that Rohan held a leadership position at Samuels Jewelers, a company implicated in fraudulent activities, including the misrepresentation of lab-grown diamonds as natural stones .
In 2018, Rohan Choksi was named in a public notice issued by a special court in Mumbai, alongside Mehul Choksi and associate Sunil Varma, under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Ordinance, further entangling him in the legal proceedings related to the Punjab National Bank fraud case .

What is marriage?

As per Sadhguru, marriage is a partnership, one that you should make not under the umbrella of a social norm but because you want a partner who meets your physical, emotional, psychological, social and economic needs. Here are 10 tips for a happy married life:

Brown rice has always been hailed for its excellent health benefits. However, a new study has highlighted some shocking results.
As per a study published in the journal Risk Analysis, highlights a food safety concern associated with brown rice and compares “potential arsenic exposure and the associated risks between brown and white rice for US populations.”
“Rice bran and brown rice are shown to have a higher arsenic content and inorganic arsenic concentration than the grain endosperm or white rice. Americans who regularly consume brown rice versus white rice were found to have higher estimated arsenic exposures. Because young children consume considerably more food relative to their bodyweights than adults, brown rice consumption in young children was found to more substantially increase foodborne arsenic exposures,” the researchers have said.
The researchers found that brown rice contains 24% more arsenic and 40% more inorganic arsenic than white rice.

Arsenic might sound like something out of a crime thriller, but it’s actually a naturally occurring element found in the earth’s crust. It’s present in water, soil, and even the air around us. The problem is, while it’s natural, it’s also toxic — especially in its inorganic form, which is the type more commonly found in contaminated water and some foods like rice.
Arsenic isn’t something you will taste or smell in your food or water, which makes it a sneaky health hazard. It can build up in your system over time if you’re exposed to it regularly. Long-term exposure, even in small amounts, is where the real concern lies.

So, what can it do to your body? A lot, unfortunately. Chronic arsenic exposure has been linked to some pretty serious health issues. First off, it’s classified as a carcinogen — that means it can increase your risk of certain cancers, especially skin, lung, bladder, and kidney cancers. It doesn’t stop there. Arsenic can also mess with your cardiovascular system, potentially leading to heart disease and high blood pressure. Your liver, skin, and nervous system can also take a hit. In kids, the impact can be even worse. High arsenic levels during early development have been associated with lower IQ, learning difficulties, and growth problems. It can also weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.
“The values reported in the analysis indicate that there is a potential risk to harmful exposure to arsenic from brown rice among children under the age of 5. However, the daily inorganic arsenic exposure for most Americans within the analysis did not rise to a level that was a concern to pose elevated risks of harmful health outcomes,” the researchers have said.

Indians and their potbellies are quite famous across the globe. For a long time, pot bellies have been considered as badges of prosperity and indulgence. In various facets of life, pot bellies have held different meanings. While in a rural area, there have been signs of healthy eating, in films and politics they have signalled corruption. But did you know that this soft pot belly is a raising alarm for health concerns?
In 2021, India had the second-highest number of overweight or obese adults with 180 million. As per a new study by Lancet, this number is expected to increase as high as 450 million by 2050, which is nearly a third of the country’s projected population. On a global level, more than half of adults and a third of children are set to have the same fate.

Image credits: Getty Images

Potbelly in medical terms is known as abdominal obesity. Here, the fat gets accumulated around the belly. As per the Indian guidelines, abdominal obesity can be defined as a waist over 90cm for men and 80cm for women.
Many studies back in the 1990s, presented a clear link between belly fat and chronic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
There are other types of obesity as well, such as peripheral obesity which is around the hips, thighs and buttocks and generalised obesity, which is when the entire body as fat spreads out evenly.

Have you ever wondered why pot bellies are common in Indians? Well, a theory titled the Thrifty Gene Theory which was proposed by geneticist James V. Neel in 1962 has the answer to this question. The theory suggests an evolutionary reason, stating that in early history, India for centuries was effected by famines. In this condition, the thrifty genes deposited fat in the abdominal part of the body which is also the most expandable part of the body to help people with these genes survive hunger and food scarcity. However, over time as food became more accessible, the fat storage continued to grow to such harmful levels that Indians have now become obese. “It’s a conjectural but plausible evolutionary theory – one that can’t be proven, but makes sense,” said Anoop Misra, who heads Delhi’s Fortis-C-DOC Centre of Excellence for Diabetes, Metabolic Diseases and Endocrinology to BBC.

In India, abdominal obesity is a rising concern. As per the most recent National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), about 40% of women and 12% of men in India suffer from abdominal obesity.
Abdominal obesity or pot belly can make the body resistant to insulin where the body stops properly responding to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. It can also lead to diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Image credits: Getty Images

As per experts you need to adopt tougher lifestyle changes. While European men are advised to perform 150 minutes of weekly exercise, South Asian men need to perform around 250-300 minutes to offset slower metabolism and less efficient fat storage, as per a study by the University of Glasgow.
Eating a healthy diet that limits trans fat, refined sugar, sodium and processed food is also helpful. A good sleep schedule and avoiding any form of drugs in smoking, alcohol and tobacco consumption is also vital.