The enamel that covers the top part of the tooth

is the hardest substance in the human body!

The average human produces 25,000 quarts of

saliva in a lifetime – enough to fill 2 swimming

pools!

Just like finger prints, tooth prints are unique

to each individual!

1/3rd of human tooth is underneath the gums—that means only two thirds of the

tooth length is visible!

India’s oral healthcare status demonstrates a great need for better education and

more accessible services. The National Oral Health Programme notes that 95% of

adults in India suffer from gum disease and 50% of the citizens don’t use a toothbrush.

The program also finds that 70% of children under the age of 15 have dental caries.

Oral hygiene is of utmost importance for complete digestion and nutrition & speech

and appearance as well. Oral problems, including bad breath, dry mouth, mouth

sores, tooth decay and early tooth loss, are all treatable with proper diagnosis and

care. Even though baby teeth are eventually replaced with permanent teeth, keeping

baby teeth healthy is important to a child’s overall health and well-being.

MOST COMMON ORAL PROBLEMS IN CHILDREN & PREVENTION MEASURES

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: It happens when a baby’s teeth are in frequent contact

with sugars from drinks, such as fruit juices, milk or any other sweet drink. If baby

teeth are damaged, they can’t guide permanent teeth into their proper position,

possibly resulting in crowded or crooked permanent teeth.

Preventive Measures:

• Avoid sugar in baby food

• Donot put baby to bed with a bottle filled with drinks containing sugar

• Use a wet cloth to wipe baby’s teeth & gums after each feeding. This helps

remove any bacteria-forming plaque and sugar that have built up on the teeth

and gums

Thumb sucking: It’s normal and healthy for infants to suck their thumbs, fingers or

toys. But if thumb sucking continues beyond the age of 5, when the permanent

teeth begin to come in, dental problems can occur. The teeth can be pushed out of

alignment, causing them to protrude and create an overbite. The child may also

have difficulty with the correct pronunciation of words.

EditorialDear Readers,

Greetings from GHPL.

Winter is the time for comfort, for good food

and warmth. Undeniably, drinking hot

chocolate, wrapping oneself up with a thick

blanket or playing in the snow during winter

are all fun-filled experiences which one

wouldn't wish to miss. However, very cold

weather can be damaging to the body

especially skin and teeth.

Tooth sensitivity is a common complaint, in the

winter which makes us wonder if teeth also

suffer from winter blues. With 20th March

being observed as ‘World Oral Health Day’, we

thought it apt to have this issue's main article

on 'Oral Health care.’

Since exams are fast approaching, Daadi Maa

Kee Potli brings out some dietary tips to

enhance Memory power.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) though not

still regarded a public health problem has been

spreading tentacles mainly in the urban areas

of the country, affecting the active. It is a

painful and debilitating condition that causes

inflammation in the digestive tract, broadly, an

inflammation of colon and small intestine.In

relation to this, we have interviewed Dr. Verma

Govind (MD, DM Gastroenterology), Pace

Hospitals, Begumpet, Hyderabad in which he

shares his thoughts on Inflammatory bowel

disease, its symptoms and treatment options.

We hope you find this issue interesting and

informative. Do share with us your thoughts

and comments.

Saigeeta Dikshit

Editor, Health Connect and

CAO & Director, Good Health TPA Services Ltd.

February 2016

Contd...#2

In this issue

Oral Health CareFor Children

1

• Oral Health Care• Daadi Maa Kee Potli –Dietary Tips to enhance Memory power• Interview – Dr. Verma Govind (MD, DM Gastroenterology)

2

Oral Health Care... contd...# 1

Contd...#4

Daadi Maa Kee Potli

(from the Grandmother's closet)

Tips to Enhance Memory Power

Diet plays an important role in our overall well-being and it influences

memory. Here are some tips on what food to add to your diet to enhance

your memory power.

Walnuts: An excellent source of omega-3. It also contains an antioxidant

called ellagic acid, that helps protect the brain from free radical damage.

Eggs: Eggs are one of the best sources of choline, an important nutrient

used to produce acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory.

Fish: Salmon, sardines & other oily fish are rich in DHA, an omega-3 fatty

acid that is essential for optimum brain performance & memory. Eat fish

3 times a week or take a good-quality fish oil supplement.

Turmeric: Contains a brain-protective compound called curcumin which

protects against cognitive impairment and it can help improve memory

and learning. It may enhance blood flow to the brain.

Mixed Nuts: Nuts contain an array of vitamins,

minerals and antioxidants and they are one of

the best sources of magnesium. Magnesium can

improve learning and memory.

Tomatoes: Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant

found in tomatoes, could help protect against

the kind of free radical damage to cells.

Green Leafy Vegetables: They are good sources

of Vitamin E, Vitamin K and folate & enhance

cognitive function & improve brainpower.

Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, etc. may help get rid of toxic proteins

associated with age-related memory loss.

Whole Grains: This may reduce inflammation, oxidative stress and other

vascular risk factors such as high blood pressure and keep the brain and

hearty healthy.

Beans and Legumes: An excellent source of complex carbohydrates mixed

with fiber & rich in folate-a B vitamin critical to brain function and essential

omega fatty acids.

Green tea: It helps improve cognitive function. Stick to 1-2 cups per day.

Gotu Kola (Brahmi): Brahmi is very good ingredient for brain. Chew 4-5

brahmi leaves on daily basis to amplify your memory. Children can drink

a spoon of brahmi juice.

Gooseberries (Amla):Eat gooseberries or its morabba, every morning. It

will strengthen weak memory.

Seeds: Eat a handful of seeds like pumpkin, flax and sesamedaily to

improve memory. They’re rich in protein, Vitamin B and Omega fatty

acids; which enhances memory power & helps relieve depression.

Pome granate: It contains powerful antioxidants that are essential for

maintaining a healthy function of the brain. It also protects the brain

cells from damages caused by free radicals.

Good diet with Regular exercise is essential for good memory power.

Stay Healthy!

Preventive Measures:

• Cover the finger or thumb with a band aid

• Take the thumb or finger out of the mouth afterchild falls asleep

Mouth Sores: Mouth sores occur due to injury to themouth such as: biting the inner lips/cheeks by mistake,stress, excess heat in body, certain medications,deficiency of certain vital nutrients and sometimes dueto food allergies.

Preventive Measures:

• Stick to soft foods that are easier to chew

• Include dairy products in the diet

• Include fresh fruits containing vitamin C and rawvegetables in the diet

• Maintain good oral hygiene

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush while brushing

• Reduce stress levels by yoga, meditation orexercise

• Avoid eating spicy, oily foods and hot beverages

Bad Breath: Poor oral hygiene, gum disease, cavities,oral cancer, dry mouth are some of the dental problemsthat can cause bad breath. Other conditions such asdigestive problems, chronic sinusitis, diabetes or theside effects of medications can also cause bad breath.

Preventive Measures:

• Brush and floss twice a day, especially after meals

• Clean the tongue after eating food

• Chew parsley after a meal. Parsley containschlorophyll, a known breath freshener.

• Select a toothpaste/ mouth rinse that containsnatural oils

• Visit dentist on a regular basis for thoroughcleaning by the dental hygienist

• Avoid foods known to cause bad breath such asgarlic, onions, cabbage, certain spices & coffee.

• A dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a majorfactor when it comes to bad breath. Sip waterthroughout the day and during meals.

Cavities: Cavities are holes formed in the tooth due totooth decay, which can affect both the outer coating ofa tooth (called enamel) and the inner layer (calleddentin). They develop when sugar-containing foodsare allowed to stay in the mouth for a long time

Preventive Measures:

• Avoid frequent snacking and sipping

• Brush with fluoride toothpaste after eating ordrinking

• Eat tooth-healthy foods

• Visit dentist regularly

Gum Disease: Gingivitis or gum disease is the

inflammation of gum tissue often caused by poor oral

hygiene and plaque accumulation, over time which can

progress into tooth loss and bone damage. Bleeding

3

What is Inflammatory BowelDisease (IBD)? What accordingto you are the reasons for rise inits incidence?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)is a group of inflammatoryconditions of the colon and smallintestine. Crohn’s disease andulcerative colitis are the principal types ofinflammatory bowel disease. It is important to notethat not only does Crohn’s disease affect the smallintestine and large intestine; it can also affect themouth, esophagus, stomach and the anus whereasulcerative colitis primarily affects the colon and therectum. The exact cause of IBD is unknown. However,genetics and problems with the immune system havebeen associated with IBD.

Genetics: You might be more likely to develop IBD ifyou have a sibling or parent with the disease. This iswhy scientists believe IBD may have a geneticcomponent.

The Immune System: The immune system may alsoplay a role in IBD. Normally, the immune systemdefends the body from pathogens (organisms thatcause diseases and infections). A bacterial or viralinfection of the digestive tract can trigger an immuneresponse. As the body tries to fight off the invaders,the digestive tract becomes inflamed. When theinfection is gone, the inflammation goes away. That’sa healthy response.

In people with IBD, however, digestive tractinflammation can happen even when there’s noinfection. The immune system attacks the body’s owncells instead. This is known as an autoimmuneresponse.

IBD can also occur when the inflammation doesn’tgo away after the infection is cured. The inflammationmay continue for months or even years.

The biggest risk factors for developing Crohn’sdisease and ulcerative colitis include:

Smoking: It is one of the main risk factors. It alsoaggravates the pain and other symptoms of Crohn’sdisease and increases the risk of complications.However, ulcerative colitis primarily affects non-smokers and ex-smokers.

Ethnicity: IBD is present in all populations. However,certain ethnic groups such as Caucasians andAshkenazi Jews have a higher risk.

Age: IBD can happen at any age, but in most cases, itstarts before the age of 35.

Family History: People who have a parent, sibling,or child with IBD are at a much higher risk fordeveloping it themselves.

Geographical Region: People who live in urban areasand industrialized countries have a higher risk ofgetting IBD. Those with white collar jobs are also morelikely to develop the disease. This can be partially

Interview - Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Dr. Verma Govind (MD, DM Gastroenterology), Pace Hospitals, Begumpet, Hyderabad

explained by lifestyle choices and diet. People who live in industrializedcountries tend to eat more fat and processed food. IBD is also morecommon among people living in northern climates, where it’s oftencold.

Gender: In general, IBD affects both genders equally. Ulcerative colitisis more common among men, while Crohn’s disease is more commonamong women.

What are the basic symptoms where a person should get alert onpossibilities of IBD?

Symptoms of IBD vary depending on the location and severity ofinflammation, but they may include:

• Diarrohea, which occurs when affected parts of the bowel can’treabsorb water

• Bleeding ulcers, which may cause blood in the stool(hematochezia)

• Stomach pain, cramping, and bloating due to bowel obstruction

• Weight loss and anaemia, which can cause delayed growth ordevelopment in children

People with Crohn’s disease may get canker sores in their mouths.Sometimes ulcers and fissures also appear around the genital area oranus.

IBD can also be associated with problems outside of the digestivesystem, such as:

• Eye inflammation -Iritis • Skin disorders

• Arthritis • Malnutrition and weight loss

• Colon cancer • Bowel obstruction

• Intestinal rupture (or perforation)

• Fistulas (ulcers that go through the bowel wall, creating a holebetween different parts of the digestive tract)

• In rare cases, a severe bout of IBD can make you go into shock.This can be life-threatening. Shock is usually caused by blood lossduring a long, sudden episode of bloody diarrhea.

How is IBD diagnosed?

1) Stool Sample and Blood Test 2) Barium Enema1 3) FlexibleSigmoidoscopy and Colonoscopy 4) Capsule Endoscopy2 5) Plain Filmor X-Ray.

Can ulcerative colitis be cured? What are the available therapies?

Ulcerative colitis disease can be kept under control. Following groupof drugs can be used like: Amino salicylates, Steroids & Immuno-suppressive and immune-modulators like Infliximab and so on...

Please tell us something about ‘strictureplasty’

Stricturoplasty is a surgical procedure done for treatment of the smallbowel narrowing secondary to IBD with small bowel stricture formation.In this procedure stricture is dilated.

What dietary and lifestyle changes would you recommend to ourreaders to manage this disease?

Avoidance of milk and chilly spicy food, daily exercise with stress freelife style, avoidance of inadvertent painkillers use, eight hours of sleepand avoidance of smoking may help.

“Views expressed herein are purely personal and do not reflect the viewsof the Hospital”

1A barium enema is an X-ray exam of the colon and small intestine

2This test inspects the small intestine

CONTACT US

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DISCLAIMERNothing contained in this newsletter shall constitute or be deemed to constitute a recommendation or an invitation orsolicitation for any product or services. The company makes no representation as to the accuracy; completeness or reliabilityof any information contained herein or otherwise provided and hereby disclaim any liability with regard to the same.4

Oral Health Care... contd...# 2

while flossing or brushing teeth is a sign of mildest form of

gum disease. Other warning signs of gingivitis include gum

tenderness, redness or puffiness.

Preventive Measures:

• Brush twice a day for at least 3 minutes each time and

floss daily

• Always brush with a toothpaste that contains fluoride

• Use a toothbrush with soft bristles, as these are less likely

to irritate/injure gum tissue

• Ensure to replace the toothbrush at least every 3- 4 months

• Eat a healthy diet. Avoid snacks and junk foods

• Biannual dental visits for cleanings and checkups

Bruxism /Grinding: Bruxism is sub-consciously clenching or

grinding the teeth. Some people grind their teeth only during

sleep; while others grind during the daytime as well. People

with severe bruxism can fracture dental fillings or cause other

types of tooth damage. It can have a variety of psychological

and physical causes.

Preventive Measures: Teeth grinding is a phase that will more

than likely pass with time and just needs to be “waited out”.

But once it has been identified the following steps could be

taken:

• Doctors suggest use of mouth guards to prevent the

grinding of teeth

• Parents should keep a watch on the emotional

environment being provided to the kids

DO’S & DON’TS

• Brush teeth twice a day with a soft bristle brush

• Massage gums, at least twice a week. This is as important

as brushing

• Maintain good tongue hygiene

• Drink plenty of liquids, especially water

• Include green leafy vegetables, raw vegetables and dairy

products in the diet

• Regular dental check-up is a must

• Avoid sipping coffee, soft drinks and tea throughout the

day. This habit of sipping drinks can lead to decay-

promoting bacteria to flourish and erode tooth enamel.

• Avoid sticky and excessive sweet items.

Conclusion

Advancements in dental technology, equipment and the

procedures they enable have ushered in a new era in

dentistry, giving consumers a good reason to smile. Yet in

India, large segments of the population still lack access to

the benef its of modern dentistry. In fact, a signif icant

portion of the population does not have access to any kind

of dental care at all. The general complacency toward oral

health highlights the need for better education on the link

between oral health and general health.

News bitsYoga powers its way into health insurance wellnesspackages of ICICI Lombard, Bajaj Allianz and othersSource: The Economic Times

The buzz around Yoga seems to have struck a chord with healthinsurers. The growing popularity of this ancient form of exercisehas prompted general insurers such as ICICI Lombard, BajajAllianz and Royal Sundaram to incorporate it in their wellnessand preventive healthcare benefit packages. While the trend ismore prevalent in the employees’ group health insuranceschemes, some insurers are now planning to extend it to theirretail health policies too. The customers have to producereceipts of fees paid to Yoga institutes to claim the benefit.The sum insured under this add-on plan ranges from Rs 2,500to Rs 10,000 a year, depending on the cover amount chosen.

Complaints against health insurers rise 2% in FY15Source: The Business Standard

The number of customer complaints against health insurerswent up by 2% to 25,600 in fiscal 2015 over the previous year.According to data from General Insurance Council around11,000 or 44% complaints registered in 2014-15 were relatedto claim settlement, up from about 10,000 complaints in 2013-14.The health segment commands 25% of the non-lifeinsurance business.In policy terms, 7,000 or 29% complaintswere registered in 2014-15 as against 6,000 or 26% complaintsin the year-ago, the data showed.However, industry playershave blamed “lack of understanding” among the customersregarding the policies as the main reason for the spike incomplaints.

Health insurers to pass on discounts given by hospitals topolicyholdersSource: The Hindu Business Line

The discounts given by hospitals to health insurers will soonget reflected in policyholders’ medical bills. This developmentcomes in the wake of the regulator asking insurance companiesand third-party administrators in June last year to pass ondiscounts received by them from hospitals to policy holders.Insurers get discounts of around 15% from hospitals forbringing volumes to them, said Segar Sampathkumar, GeneralManager at New India Assurance. Amit Bhandari, Head ofHealth Underwriting and Claims at ICICI Lombard, said that atpresent the discount is given to an insurance company’s paymentas hospitals link it to the volumes that insurers bring in.