Greater Noida. The festival of Holi is celebrated with enthusiasm all over the country with happiness, colors and delicious dishes, but amidst this celebration, small carelessness related to health can cause big problems. Dr. Kapil Kumar Sharma, Group Director of the Gastrology Department of Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida, has advised people to take special precautions, so that the festive fun does not get too heavy. Talking to Local 18, Dr. Kapil says that during Holi, people become so busy in playing colors, socializing and enjoying the dishes that they are unable to pay attention to food and hygiene. This carelessness can give rise to stomach and liver related diseases. Especially in this season, cases of food poisoning, viral hepatitis and liver inflammation increase.
This caution is necessary
Dr. Kapil first advised to be cautious about colors. Chemicals and harmful elements are added to many colors available in the market, which can cause harm to the skin as well as inside the body. While playing with colours, it is important to keep in mind that only organic or herbal colors should be used. Protect the eyes, nose and mouth so that the colors do not enter the body. Gujiya, namkeen, papad and various types of fried dishes are prepared on Holi. Many times the same oil is heated and used again and again. By doing this the amount of transfat in the oil increases, which is very harmful for the body. The effect of transfat is not limited to the stomach only, but it can also have negative effects on the liver, intestine and even the brain. Due to this, diabetes can become uncontrolled and cholesterol levels can also increase.
Dr. Kapil says that avoid consuming food items kept in the open or cooked for a long time. During festivals, people often eat street food from outside, where cleanliness is not taken care of. Consumption of unhygienic food and contaminated water increases the risk of diseases like food poisoning and viral hepatitis. Therefore, take only fresh and clean home-made food and eat it only after washing hands. Consumption of alcohol is also common during Holi celebrations, drinking excessively can prove dangerous. Excessive alcohol affects mental ability and the person starts taking wrong decisions. This can cause inflammation in the pancreas, which is called pancreatitis in medical language. Liver can also be seriously affected. In many cases, patients even have to be admitted to hospital.
Dr. Kapil says that the real joy of the festival is only when you remain healthy. A little caution can save you from big problems. Take care of hygiene, eat fresh food, avoid repeatedly heating oil and consume alcohol in limited quantities. Keep drinking enough water so that the body remains hydrated.
don’t do this thing
According to Rashmi Sharma, Consultant Dermatology, Fortis Hospital, by taking a little precaution, Holi can be enjoyed to the fullest and the skin can be protected from damage. Applying moisturizer or coconut oil on the skin before playing Holi creates a protective layer, which reduces the direct effect of colors. Those playing in the sun must apply sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Wearing full sleeves clothes and using herbal or organic colors is a better option. After Holi, do not rub the skin hard, instead clean it with mild cleanser and lukewarm water. If redness, itching or burning persists for more than 24–48 hours, contact a dermatologist immediately.
