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Bollywood actor Katrina Kaif has faced criticism on social media over her postpartum weight, even as her business venture Kay Beauty has recorded strong growth. Kaif and her husband, actor Vicky Kaushal, were recently photographed by paparazzi during a Ganesh Chaturthi celebration in Mumbai. Soon after, social media users began commenting on the actor’s appearance, with many focusing on her weight rather than her outfit or overall look. Some users compared recent photographs of Kaif with older images and questioned changes in her appearance. One X user shared before-and-after pictures and wrote, “I wonder what happened to the Katrina we used to see before marriage and after marriage.” Another user shared a video from the celebration and criticised the actor’s appearance, referring to alleged cosmetic procedures. The criticism has also drawn support for Kaif from many women and fans online. One fan said Kaif is a new mother whose body should not be judged and urged people to allow women time to recover after childbirth without body-shaming. Kaif gave birth to her son, Vihaan, on Nov 7, 2025. He has not yet turned one, but some social media users have already questioned whether the actor’s career has been affected by her postpartum weight. Kaif recently turned 43 and became a mother in her 40s. Meanwhile, her business career continues to show strong growth. According to an Indian Express report, Kay Beauty’s sales increased from Rs 240 crore in fiscal 2025 to Rs 350 crore in fiscal 2026, a 46% rise. The beauty brand has also expanded beyond India, launching in the UK and growing its presence in the Middle East. Kaif began her acting career with “Boom” in 2003. According to The Times of India, she has a net worth of more than Rs 220 crore, while GQ India reported in 2024 that she charges more than Rs 10 crore per project. She owns a house in London estimated at Rs 7.2 crore and a Rs 17-crore property investment in Mumbai. She also owns a luxury vanity van and several high-end cars, including a Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz and two Audis. While social media users continue to comment on her appearance, Kaif appears focused on her family and business. With her son’s first birthday approaching, she is expected to celebrate his milestones while continuing to expand her business ventures. Source: NDTV

When Zoë Armstrong received an ultrasound report showing signs of endometriosis, she broke down in tears while speaking with her mother. After years of pain and repeated visits to doctors, she finally had an explanation for what she had been experiencing. Seeing the diagnosis in writing made her feel validated. Armstrong's experience reflects a wider problem. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, many patients wait 10 years or even longer after their symptoms begin before receiving a diagnosis of endometriosis. The condition affects about one in 10 women worldwide. It occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows elsewhere in the body, often causing severe pain and other health problems. Severe pain and other symptomsEndometriosis is believed to be a chronic inflammatory disease, although its exact cause remains unclear. Experts say genetic factors may also play a role. The symptoms can vary depending on where the tissue grows and how severe the condition is. It commonly affects the ovaries, bladder and bowel, though in rare cases it can occur outside the pelvic area. Common symptoms include severe pain during menstruation, sexual intercourse or bowel movements. Patients may also experience bloating, fatigue and infertility. Dr. Drorit Or of Mount Sinai West in New York said the pain can be so severe that some patients are unable to attend school or work and may remain in bed for days. Armstrong began experiencing symptoms when she was 11. She suffered stabbing pain on the left side of her body and frequently had to visit the school nurse. Later, she developed severe pain, nausea, heavy menstrual bleeding, acne and ruptured ovarian cysts. After getting married, her pain became even more intense and frequent. Why diagnosis often takes so longArmstrong was eventually diagnosed at the age of 29 by a doctor who also had endometriosis. An ultrasound detected an endometrioma, a cyst associated with the disease. After searching for the term online, Armstrong finally began to understand what could be causing her long-standing health problems. Surgery later confirmed the diagnosis. Experts say delayed diagnosis can happen for several reasons. Menstrual pain is often considered normal by both patients and doctors. In addition, the symptoms can resemble those of other medical conditions. Dr. Megan Billow of the Cleveland Clinic said not all health care providers have sufficient experience or expertise in identifying endometriosis. Doctors suggest that patients keep a record of their symptoms, including when pain occurs, where it is felt and how severe it becomes. This information can help doctors better understand the patient's condition. Patients should also feel comfortable asking their doctors whether endometriosis could be a possible cause of their symptoms. New diagnostic tests raise hopesNew tests designed to help detect endometriosis are already being used in some countries, although they have not yet received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. One test, called EndoSure, takes about 30 minutes. It measures electrical signals in the gut using sensors placed on the abdomen, and the results are provided to the doctor afterward. Another test, known as Endotest, analyzes saliva samples for microRNAs that may indicate the presence of endometriosis. Results are generally available within two to three weeks. In the United Kingdom, health advisers have issued draft guidance recommending that both tests be used by the National Health Service for three years while more evidence is gathered about their effectiveness. The aim is to help speed up diagnosis, particularly in primary care. Dr. Mark Noar, founder of Maryland-based EndoSure, said the company is preparing its application to the FDA to seek approval for the test as a tool to assist doctors in diagnosing the disease. Meanwhile, French company Ziwig is working to make Endotest available to patients in the United States through a pathway that allows certain laboratory-developed tests to be offered through certified laboratories without FDA approval. Dr. Andrew Spiers of Ziwig said such tests should be considered an important starting point rather than a replacement for other diagnostic methods. Once doctors identify the possibility of endometriosis, further imaging and examinations may still be necessary. U.S. doctors agree that these new tests could become useful additions to existing diagnostic methods, but they are unlikely to provide a complete solution. They also will not address the long-standing tendency to dismiss or normalize severe menstrual pain. Treatment options are availableOnce diagnosed, patients can work with doctors to develop a treatment plan based on their symptoms and individual needs. Treatment options include painkillers such as ibuprofen and prescription medicines designed specifically for endometriosis. Hormonal treatments, including birth control pills, progestin therapy and medicines that temporarily stop menstruation, may also help manage symptoms. Surgery can be another option in some cases. Severe cases may require more extensive procedures, including hysterectomy. Armstrong underwent excision surgery to remove endometriosis lesions and scar tissue. She still receives regular care, including pelvic floor therapy and treatment for other related health problems. She now visits middle and high schools across New York City with the Endometriosis Foundation to raise awareness about the disease and other women's health conditions. Armstrong believes young people need better information about the warning signs and when to seek medical help. Dr. Or said that while endometriosis can be difficult to diagnose and manage, patients should know that treatment and support are available. Women do not have to simply accept severe pain as a normal part of life, she said, adding that many people with endometriosis can manage the condition and live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Actor and cancer survivor Manisha Koirala has shared an honest account of her health and fitness journey, saying she learned that ageing changes the body and that healing requires patience rather than pushing harder. In a recent Instagram post, the 55-year-old actor said her gym updates are not about appearance but about regaining her health after years of putting it on the back burner. Koirala, who was diagnosed with advanced-stage ovarian cancer in 2012 and declared cancer-free in 2013 after surgery and chemotherapy, said she gradually lost healthy routines because of life's pressures, including less sleep, more stress and irregular habits. She said she decided to make her health her top priority before starting her next project. Believing that daily workouts and carefully tracking calories and protein would bring quick results, she expected to see major changes. However, despite exercising regularly, the number on the weighing scale did not change. She even bought a new scale, thinking the old one was faulty, but the result remained the same. Koirala admitted she became frustrated and emotional before consulting doctors and health experts, who explained that the body naturally changes with age. She said she eventually realised that her body no longer needed punishment or extreme effort but understanding and a different approach to wellness. After following a more balanced and holistic health plan for four months, she said she finally began seeing progress and now feels stronger, healthier and more hopeful, although she is still working towards her fitness goals. Koirala also encouraged people facing similar struggles not to lose hope if results take time. "Sometimes your body is asking for patience, not perfection," she wrote. Her post received widespread support from fans, many praising her honesty and thanking her for sharing the challenges behind her recovery and wellness journey. Source: NDTV

Frequent texting, scrolling and prolonged smartphone use can strain the hands and thumbs, causing pain, stiffness and discomfort that may develop into more serious conditions if left unaddressed, according to medical experts. Often referred to as "texting thumb," the condition includes symptoms such as aching joints, stiffness, pain near the base of the thumb and clicking sensations during movement. Repetitive use of smartphones can also increase the risk of conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, thumb arthritis, trigger thumb and De Quervain's tenosynovitis. Experts say modern smartphones are larger and heavier than earlier devices, while people now spend significantly more time using them—not only for calls and messages but also for social media, online banking, streaming videos and other daily activities. Dr. Maureen O'Shaughnessy of the University of Kentucky HealthCare Hand Center said smartphones are now an integral part of everyday life, making it more practical to adopt healthier usage habits rather than avoiding devices altogether. She advised users to avoid maintaining the same hand, wrist and elbow position for extended periods, as this can strain tendons and joints. Alternating hands while texting, using different fingers instead of relying solely on the thumbs, and changing posture regularly can help reduce stress on the hands. Experts also recommend making use of smartphone accessibility features such as voice-to-text and increasing font size to lessen thumb movement and reduce the need to hold the phone close to the face. Grip accessories, including ring or loop attachments on the back of phones, can improve comfort by distributing the device's weight more evenly across the hand. These accessories can also serve as stands when watching videos. Daily stretching exercises may also provide relief. Doctors suggest gently flexing the wrists, stretching the fingers and moving the thumbs in small circles. For pain at the base of the thumb, placing the hand flat on a surface and gently pulling the thumb away from the fingers for about 30 seconds may help ease discomfort. Medical experts advise seeking professional treatment if pain, numbness or tingling continues despite reducing screen time and using home remedies such as ice packs or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. Dr. Eugene Tsai of Cedars-Sinai Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine noted that human hands were not designed for prolonged smartphone use and emphasized the importance of taking regular breaks and using devices in ways that reduce strain on the joints and tendons.

Deep-rooted cultural pressure to have baby boys is putting many African women at risk of repeated pregnancies and serious health complications, according to a report highlighting maternal health challenges across sub-Saharan Africa. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, one man, Prosper Mbumba, said he and his wife kept trying for a son after having four daughters, reflecting a widespread belief in some communities that male children are needed to continue family lineage. “In my tribe, in my culture, that was like an insult, having only daughters,” said Mbumba, a human rights activist. He said he only felt “a little satisfied” after the birth of his first son. His wife, Régine Ntumba, said she felt relief and happiness when they finally had a boy. The issue is part of a broader maternal health crisis in sub-Saharan Africa, which records about 180,000 pregnancy-related deaths each year and accounts for around 70% of global maternal deaths, according to the World Health Organization. Experts say high fertility rates, limited access to contraception, and weak health systems are major drivers of risk. In Congo, women have an average of 5.9 children, according to UN data, partly due to cultural expectations and limited family planning services. Health workers say women are often blamed for not giving birth to boys, increasing pressure to continue having children even when pregnancies become risky. “Mostly it is the woman who is blamed for giving birth to a girl,” said Patrick Djemo, who leads MSI Reproductive Choices in Congo. He said many women face pressure from partners and families to avoid contraception and continue childbearing. Midwives and health workers describe repeated cases of women seeking sons even during high-risk pregnancies, sometimes under severe medical conditions. In one case recalled by a midwife, a woman in her ninth childbirth expressed distress upon learning she had another daughter. The pressure continues even among educated families in urban areas, where women report threats of marital breakdown if they do not produce a male child. Health experts warn that such social expectations contribute to unsafe pregnancies, limited use of family planning, and preventable maternal deaths across the region.

Pregnancy can be a deeply challenging time for women with eating disorders, with experts warning that the physical and emotional changes can sometimes trigger relapse or new symptoms that often go unnoticed. When Elizabeth Claydon became pregnant at 27, she noticed rapid changes in her body that she found difficult to accept. Like many pregnant women, she experienced hormonal shifts, weight gain and physical transformation. But for her, it also triggered distressing thoughts about body image. “Some days I was okay with the changes and other days it would be really difficult,” she said. “I would look in the mirror and I wouldn’t see myself.” Claydon had previously suffered from anorexia nervosa in her teenage years and later experienced a relapse before becoming pregnant. She says her eating disorder thoughts returned strongly as her pregnancy progressed, creating what she described as a “battle” between her mind and her changing body. Experts say such experiences are not widely recognised but are not rare. Research suggests about one in 20 pregnant women experience an eating disorder, either as a relapse or for the first time during pregnancy. Professor Gemma Sharp, an eating disorder specialist at the University of Adelaide, said pregnancy can be a “perfect storm” due to rapid physical, hormonal and emotional changes. However, she added it can also become a turning point for recovery if proper support is provided. Studies show that many pregnant and postpartum women struggle with body dissatisfaction, while eating disorders often go undetected due to stigma and lack of screening. Experts say many women avoid seeking help, fearing judgement or believing they should have outgrown such conditions. The condition, sometimes referred to as “pregorexia,” can have serious health risks for both mother and baby, including complications during pregnancy, low birth weight, premature birth and developmental issues. Doctors warn that poor maternal nutrition can also affect long-term child health, influencing risks of obesity, diabetes and heart conditions later in life. However, experts say more research is needed to fully understand the impact due to limited data. The risks do not end after childbirth. Around 13% of women experience eating disorders in the postpartum period, often triggered by sleep deprivation, hormonal changes and pressure to quickly regain pre-pregnancy body shape. Courtney Louise, a mother and fitness instructor in Australia, said she experienced severe emotional distress after childbirth linked to her past anorexia. “I felt trapped,” she said, describing intense mood swings and emotional breakdowns during the postpartum period. Health experts say the problem is often missed in medical settings because pregnancy symptoms such as nausea can mask eating disorder behaviours. In many cases, women also avoid disclosing their condition due to shame or fear of judgement. Specialists say awareness and non-judgemental care are key. Some researchers have developed new guidelines and support resources, but there are still no specific treatments designed exclusively for pregnant women with eating disorders. Experts recommend better screening, sensitive communication, and multidisciplinary care involving doctors, dietitians and mental health professionals. “Everybody has an eating disorder alone, but nobody recovers alone,” said psychologist Linda Shanti.   With inputs from NDTV  

A simple daily walk may be one of the most powerful habits for long-term health, according to a US-based heart specialist. Jeremy London, a cardiovascular surgeon based in Savannah, Georgia, says walking regularly can strengthen the heart, improve blood circulation, reduce stress and lower the risk of chronic diseases. In a video shared on Instagram, London explains that even moderate walking can make a meaningful difference to overall health. “It’s super simple, but it’s really powerful,” he says. “It decreases cardiovascular risk, controls blood pressure, controls blood glucose, and helps control weight.” He notes that the benefits of walking increase with frequency and duration, but even small amounts of daily movement are effective in improving health outcomes. Key benefits of walking London highlights several health benefits linked to regular walking: Longevity: Walking is associated with a lower risk of death from all causes. “More is better, but even modest amounts move the needle,” he says. Heart and metabolic health:Regular walking helps manage blood pressure, blood sugar levels and body weight, supporting overall heart and metabolic health. Brain health and mood:Walking is also linked to better mental well-being, including reduced stress, improved mood and a lower risk of cognitive decline. Beyond physical health:London also points to less measurable benefits, such as spending time outdoors and having space to think. “Some of the best ideas come during a walk,” he notes. Experts say walking remains one of the easiest and most accessible forms of exercise, offering benefits for both physical and mental health when done consistently. Source: NDTV

Moving to music is proving to be one of the best ways for older adults to stay healthy, active and socially engaged, according to health experts in the United States. At a dance practice in Arizona, 87-year-old Carol Ross leads a group of women aged 50 and above in tap and jazz routines, smiling as she calls out steps. Ross, who founded the Rodeo City Wreckettes more than two decades ago, says dancing has been a lifelong passion that keeps her energized. Medical professionals say dance can be as beneficial as other forms of exercise, helping older adults improve strength, balance, flexibility and even brain health. It also supports mental wellbeing and social connection. Experts note that any style of dance — from ballroom and salsa to line dancing or fitness routines like Zumba — can offer similar benefits. Health specialists say dancing can reduce the risk of falls and help improve mobility, especially when routines include movements such as stepping backwards or balancing on one leg. Doctors also recommend older adults include regular dance sessions as part of their weekly exercise routine, alongside aerobic activity. Members of the Wreckettes rehearse twice a week for two-hour sessions, performing at community events, rodeos and retirement homes. The group often donates its earnings to charity. For many members, dancing also helps build friendships and reduce loneliness, especially after major life changes such as retirement or the loss of a partner. Several dancers say staying active is their way of ensuring a healthier and more fulfilling life in old age. The group also regularly performs for people in care homes, where music often helps lift the mood of residents, especially those in memory care units. Similar dance groups for seniors in other US cities also perform regularly, saying learning routines helps keep both body and mind sharp. Health experts advise those interested in starting dance later in life to first consult a doctor, begin with simple routines, and look for classes at community centres, gyms or online platforms. They also recommend wearing comfortable clothing and warming up properly before starting any dance session.

A growing social media trend dubbed “office air” is drawing attention to how long hours spent in indoor office environments may leave people feeling and looking more tired, dull and less refreshed by the end of the day. Online users have been sharing posts and videos with phrases such as “office air is ruining your makeup”, “office air is making your skin dull” and “office air is making you tired,” describing a widely felt experience among office workers. The trend, which has gained popularity across social media platforms in recent months, often shows before-and-after comparisons of individuals at the start and end of their workday. Many users report visible changes such as faded makeup, oily or flat hair, dry skin and signs of fatigue. Experts say these effects may be linked to poor indoor air quality, which can cause headaches, tiredness, difficulty concentrating, eye irritation and “brain fog” after prolonged exposure. Dr Aravinda S N, Lead Consultant in Internal Medicine at Aster RV Hospital in Bangalore, said most modern offices are enclosed spaces with limited fresh air circulation, leading to a buildup of carbon dioxide, dust, allergens and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from furniture and cleaning products. “When carbon dioxide gets too high, particularly in packed meeting rooms, alertness can drop, and thinking skills get less sharp, so employees feel worn out and mentally sluggish,” he said. He added that poor ventilation may also allow mould and other pollutants to accumulate, while increasing the risk of airborne infections in shared office spaces. According to him, viruses can remain suspended in the air for longer in poorly ventilated environments, especially in air-conditioned and closed meeting rooms, increasing the risk of illnesses such as influenza, the common cold and COVID-19. Dr Aravinda stressed the need for better ventilation, regular HVAC maintenance, air purifiers with HEPA filters and increased exchange of outdoor air to reduce airborne contaminants and improve workplace health conditions. He said improved airflow can also help reduce indoor humidity and pollutants that irritate the respiratory system and weaken immunity, particularly in shared areas such as cafeterias, conference rooms and elevators. Skincare specialist Dr Sunil Kumar Prabhu, Consultant Dermatologist and Aesthetic Physician at the same hospital, said prolonged exposure to air-conditioned environments can also affect skin and scalp health. He said air conditioning reduces indoor humidity, causing the skin to lose moisture faster, which can lead to dryness, tightness, flaking and irritation. Over time, this may weaken the skin barrier, reduce elasticity and contribute to the early appearance of fine lines, making the skin look dull or prematurely aged, he noted. Dr Prabhu added that low humidity and poor ventilation may worsen conditions such as eczema, rosacea and sensitive skin by triggering itching, redness and irritation. He also said indoor pollutants, dust, cleaning chemicals, temperature changes and stress can further aggravate skin sensitivity and flare-ups. On scalp health, he noted that prolonged exposure to air-conditioned environments may cause dryness, itching, flaking and dandruff, while also leading to rough hair texture, frizz and breakage due to loss of natural oils. He advised maintaining proper hydration, using gentle shampoos, regular conditioning and avoiding excessive heat styling to protect hair and scalp health. Regarding skincare routines, Dr Prabhu said office workers often benefit more from barrier-repair-focused products rather than only lightweight moisturisers. He recommended ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide and fatty acids to help restore moisture balance and strengthen the skin barrier. He also cautioned against common mistakes such as skipping moisturiser, poor hydration, neglecting sunscreen indoors, over-washing the face, using harsh cleansers, wearing heavy makeup for long hours and ignoring sleep, nutrition and stress management. A simple and consistent skincare routine, along with adequate hydration and gentle products, can help maintain healthier skin during long indoor work hours, he added. #From NDTV

Telugu star Ram Charan has drawn fresh attention for his physical transformation and disciplined fitness regimen ahead of his upcoming film Peddi. His fitness trainer, Rakkesh R Uddiyar, praised the actor’s strength, endurance and commitment, even comparing him to Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. Speaking in an interview with Zoom, the trainer said Ram Charan displays similar physical resilience and discipline to Salman Khan, noting his ability to quickly recover from injuries and return to work. He also credited the actor’s mental strength and spiritual discipline for his fitness journey. “Like Salman Khan, Ram Charan is also very strong… I believe a lot of strength comes from his spirituality,” the trainer said. Intense training and strict diet plan The trainer revealed that Ram Charan followed a structured and demanding fitness programme during preparation for Peddi, including cardio-focused routines, strength training and a controlled diet plan ranging between 1,800 to 2,500 calories with carb cycling. He added that both Ram Charan and Salman Khan share similar fitness habits, including early-morning cardio sessions and maintaining a consistently lean physique. The preparation phase also coincided with Ram Charan’s 41-day Ayyappa Deeksha, a spiritual observance involving strict dietary and lifestyle restrictions, which made training more challenging. Describing the process, the trainer said maintaining a full vegetarian diet during intensive training required careful planning and discipline. “It’s not a one-day programme. I have almost given one year and four months for his body,” he added. Ram Charan is next set to appear in Peddi, directed by Buchi Babu Sana. Source: NDTV