Hearing the word ‘ubtan’ may immediately make you think of your mother or grandmother mixing fresh ingredients at home and asking you to use them for fresher, clearer, and brighter skin. Ubtan is a semisolid or powdered preparation that is known to cleanse dirt and improve the luster of skin [1]. In fact, these herbal cosmetic powders have roots in both Ayurveda and Unani practices dating back centuries to improve skin texture and tone and reduce infections.

After all, skin diseases are counted among the most common of all health conditions according to the WHO. Almost 900 million people in the world, at any given time, are affected by skin problems [2]. Our body’s internal health is also reflected in our skin, and it needs both nourishment and care. Weather changes and other external factors like pollution and heat can play a big role in deteriorating our skin health.

So, irrespective of the reason why your skin feels dull, oily, uneven, or acne-prone, having a skincare regime at hand to regularly boost your skin from within is vital. Ayurvedic recipes like ubtan work wonder in this regard, and you can even make them yourself at home with readily available ingredients. Here’s more about ubtan powder and how it can help your skin get an uplift! 

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18826" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/46a-scaled.jpg" alt="ayurvedic-ubtan-ingredients-benefits" width="2560" height="1502" />
<h2>What is ubtan? </h2>
The idea of ubtan dates back to the ancient times when skin-boosting or beauty-enhancing ingredients were freshly prepared and used on the body. In Ayurveda, ubtan is referred to as ubvartan and is followed by a massage to make skin feel softer and smoother and get rid of dead skin cells and blemishes. Apart from cosmetic uses, ubtan can also help you reduce or get rid of skin rashes, allergies and pimples, and even inflammation.

Made by using readily available spices, herbs, lentils, or legumes, ubtan is a semisolid paste made using ubtan powder. The main ubtan powder ingredients are turmeric, raw milk, saffron, gram flour, sandalwood paste or powder, and rose water [3]. In today’s day and age, too, ubtan is a natural home remedy you can rely on to cope with the harmful effects of the changing environment around you. In fact, ubtan powder ingredients are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-aging, and antiseptic properties, which is why they help improve your skin.  

Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/what-is-manjistha" target="_blank" rel="noopener">5 Health Benefits Of Manjistha You Cannot Miss Out On!</a>

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18989" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/46-1.jpg" alt="Ubtan benefits" width="1920" height="1920" />
<h2>Why use ubtan for face and body? </h2>
You can use ubtan for both your face and body to enjoy the following benefits.  
<ul>
 	<li>This age-old face and body mask imparts a natural glow to your skin </li>
 	<li>Ubtan reduces spots on your skin, decreases age lines, and reduces tan  </li>
 	<li>Made using natural ingredients, ubtan is suitable for all skin types  </li>
 	<li>Ubtan is not expensive and can be easily made at home  </li>
 	<li>It does not irritate the skin, as there are no chemicals or harmful ingredients present in it  </li>
 	<li>It works as a natural exfoliator, cleanser, and moisturizer to nourish your skin  </li>
</ul>
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18825" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/46b.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1281" />
<h2>How can you prepare ubtan powder at home? </h2>
Ubtan can be made using many natural ingredients, and you can choose them depending on the result you want. Take the ubtan powder ingredients mentioned below in small quantities and mix them well together using honey, yogurt, or water. If you want to preserve the ubtan for a few weeks, then make a bigger batch of the powder and store it in the refrigerator for subsequent use. Add the liquid ingredients to make a fresh batch whenever you want to use ubtan for the face or body. 

See the common ubtan powder ingredients and their benefits below.  
<ul>
 	<li>Sandalwood and chickpeas are known to impart a natural glow to the skin, increase skin elasticity, and reduce wrinkles  </li>
 	<li>Turmeric comes loaded with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and makes skin radiant  </li>
 	<li>Use neem in case you have acne-prone skin, as it helps heal skin from within </li>
 	<li>Almond is known to have natural exfoliating properties, so you can use it to clear your skin and get an even texture </li>
 	<li>Use curd in your ubtan during winters to add suppleness to your skin as it works as a natural moisturizer </li>
 	<li>Wheat flour works against sun damage and promotes skin elasticity, so use it to remove tan naturally  </li>
 	<li>Saffron reduces skin pigmentation and can even protect your skin against the harmful rays of the sun  </li>
 	<li>Rose water also works against pimples and calms both swelling and redness </li>
</ul>
Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/ashwagandha-8-amazing-withania-somnifera-benefits-to-know" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ashwagandha: 8 Amazing Withania Somnifera Benefits to Know!</a> 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOOk3xC5c7k

Natural solutions like ubtan are based on Ayurvedic science and give you results with regular use. To get help when it comes to understanding which ubtan powder ingredients are best for you, get a doctor consultation with an expert. Log on to Bajaj Finserv Health to find reputed Ayurvedic doctors near you and book a video consultation for the best results.

This way, you can also get Ayurvedic remedies for acne or learn about the benefits of manjistha powder or Withania somnifera, which is better known as ashwagandha. By seeking all the counsel you need without having to step outdoors, you can not only improve your skin health but also tackle other health issues you or your loved ones may have. So, get started today and boost your health the natural way!

With hospital daily cash insurance, you get a specific sum on each day that you are hospitalized. This usually goes from Rs.250 to Rs.15,000 per day. You can use it to pay for additional costs that your normal health insurance policy doesn't cover or view it as compensation for any income you may have lost during the time you have been unable to work.

Usually, you need to be hospitalized for more than 24 hours for a hospital daily cash insurance policy to be valid [1]. Also, remember that the benefits usually double if the insured is admitted to an ICU. Keep in mind that a hospital daily cash insurance plan can be a separate health policy, or your insurer may provide it as an optional rider. Read on to find out more about hospital daily cash insurance.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18740" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/45b.png" alt="" width="4001" height="2183" />
<h2>Coverage you can get under a hospital daily cash insurance policy </h2>
With a hospital daily cash insurance plan, you can avail the daily benefit of the following: 
<ul>
 	<li>Accidents </li>
 	<li>Ailments </li>
 	<li>Extension of hospital stay </li>
 	<li>ICU admission</li>
</ul>
Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/in-patient-hospitalisation" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Inpatient Hospitalization: How is Aarogya Care Useful?</a> 
<div class="internal-cta"><a class="internal-cta-anchor" href="https://bit.ly/3tyJrzE">Explore Aarogya Care Plans</a></div>
<h2>Waiting period </h2>
Just like a comprehensive health policy, there is a certain waiting period before a hospital's daily cash insurance policy gets activated. Here are some crucial facts you should know.  
<ul>
 	<li>Pre-existing diseases: The policy may not offer the daily hospital cash benefit for the treatment of pre-existing diseases up to 48 months or more, depending on the hospital daily cash insurance plan you choose.  </li>
 	<li>Mandatory waiting period: You may need to wait for 30 days to avail the claim benefits from this policy unless the claim is made due to an accident. This also differs from insurer to insurer.  </li>
 	<li>Waiting period for the treatment of certain diseases or procedures: Any claims against the following made within 24 months post the commencement of the hospital daily cash insurance plan may not be considered. </li>
 	<li>All types of cysts, benign tumors (external and internal), polyps, and more </li>
 	<li>Hysterectomy </li>
 	<li>Cataracts and other eye diseases related to old age </li>
 	<li>Non-cancerous ENT conditions </li>
 	<li>Hydrocele </li>
 	<li>Duodenal and gastric ulcer </li>
 	<li>Fistula, fissures and piles </li>
 	<li>Different types of hernia </li>
 	<li>Tympanoplasty </li>
 	<li>Mastoidectomy </li>
 	<li>Tonsillectomy </li>
 	<li>Gout and rheumatism </li>
 	<li>Varicose veins and ulcers</li>
</ul>
Apart from these, certain ailments or treatment procedures may need a waiting period of 48 months before you can enjoy the hospital's daily cash insurance cover. These include osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and replacement of joints, among a few.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18890" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/45-1.jpg" alt="Hospital Daily Cash Insurance benefits" width="1920" height="1920" />
<h2>Major exclusions </h2>
Some of the common events when a hospital's daily cash insurance plan does not offer you any benefits include the following.  
<ul>
 	<li>Hospitalization for dental treatment or examination of teeth </li>
 	<li>Any treatment or procedure related to infertility or sterility, such as: </li>
 	<li>Going for any type of contraception </li>
 	<li>Reversal of sterilization, a type of contraception </li>
 	<li>Artificial insemination and related advanced procedures like GIFT, ZIFT, ICSI, IVF </li>
 	<li>Gestational surrogacy </li>
 	<li>STIs (except AIDS in some cases) </li>
 	<li>Treatment to alter gender </li>
 	<li>Treatment of external congenital birth defects </li>
 	<li>Circumcisions, unless prescribed by the doctor as part of a treatment  </li>
 	<li>Treatment of drug and substance addiction and alcoholism </li>
 	<li>Maternity cover </li>
 	<li>Birth of a child </li>
 	<li>Miscarriage </li>
 	<li>Injury inflicted by self </li>
 	<li>Conditions arising from participation in adventure sports </li>
 	<li>Suicide or attempted suicide </li>
 	<li>Hospitalization due to conditions resulting from criminal acts where the insured is responsible </li>
 	<li>War or war-like situations, such as </li>
 	<li>Invasion by foreign armies </li>
 	<li>Revolution </li>
 	<li>Mutiny </li>
 	<li>Civil war </li>
 	<li>Biological, chemical, or nuclear warfare </li>
 	<li>Treatment of conditions arising out of the navy, air force, law enforcement, or military operations </li>
 	<li>Treatment procedures that do not have the required medical documentation to back them up</li>
</ul>
Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/health-insurance-discounts" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Health Insurance Discounts: Know About the 5 Types to Avail</a> 

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18741" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/45a.png" alt="" width="4001" height="3790" />

Now that you know about the inclusions and exclusions of hospital daily cash insurance, you can utilize the benefit of a hospital daily cash insurance policy wisely. While you can buy a separate plan for hospital daily cash insurance, you can also opt for the all-inclusive Aarogya Care plan.

Usually, policyholders buy a hospital daily cash insurance cover when their basic plan doesn't cover expenses related to diagnostic tests, surgeon's fees or instruments, and more. However, the Complete Health Solution plans available on Bajaj Finserv Health offer wide coverage. This includes cover not only for in-patient hospitalization treatment and room rent but also for: 
<ul>
 	<li>Orthopedic implants, vascular stents, pacemakers, X-rays, and more </li>
 	<li>The costs of surgical appliances, blood transfusions, and more </li>
 	<li>Care of organ donors and organ transplant procedure </li>
 	<li>Boarding and room rent in the ICU </li>
 	<li>The fees of doctors, surgeons, and anesthetists </li>
</ul>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qhmWU3ncD8

Apart from this, you can make your health insurance claims with ease, either in the cashless or reimbursement mode. For cashless treatment, make sure you get to visit a network hospital part of the huge partner network of Aarogya Care. Alternatively, you can make reimbursement claims from any hospital or medical facility of your choice.

Looking for a discount on health insurance? Aarogya Care plans offer you up to a 10% network discount on medical services from partners and also give you a No Claim Bonus which can get you discounts on premiums or increase your cover. These plans also offer  

pre- and post-hospitalization coverage, free preventive health check-ups, and COVID treatment coverage, among many other features. You can also opt for free insta consultations with 8,400+ top doctors across 35+ specializations in 17+ Indian languages with these plans. To secure yourself against all kinds of health hazards, sign up for it today. To further enjoy deals and cashback, you can also sign up for a prepaid health card on the Bajaj Finserv Health app or website. All this makes it easier for you to put your health first and get treated more affordably.

As we grow old, we develop certain signs of aging, and grey hair is one of them. They may start appearing once you cross the age of 35. For some people, it may even come earlier. Remember, each hair has a certain cycle when it appears, grows, and dies, making room for another hair in the same follicle. With age, the follicles start producing grey and white hair.

Here is a look at the usual causes of hair turning grey: 
<ul>
 	<li>Genetics [1] </li>
 	<li>Deficiency of vitamins </li>
 	<li>Use of cosmetic hair products and hair dyes </li>
 	<li>Too many free radicals lead to an increase in oxidative stress </li>
 	<li>Addiction to tobacco, especially smoking </li>
 	<li>Certain health conditions </li>
 	<li>Excessive stress [2]</li>
</ul>
Though some people consider it a sign of experience and maturity, others don’t like to keep their hair looking grey, as they consider it makes them look older or reduces their youthful charms. Wondering how to stop grey hair with easy solutions? Read on to know about the best home remedies to prevent grey hair naturally and more.

Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/6-effective-home-remedies-to-avoid-hair-fall-during-monsoon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">6 Effective Home Remedies to Avoid Hair Fall During Monsoon</a> 

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18742" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/44b.png" alt="" width="4001" height="3228" />
<h2>How to stop grey hair naturally: 15 home remedies </h2>
<ul>
 	<li>Consume ginger with honey: Mix a tablespoon of each together to make the perfect blend. </li>
 	<li>Apply onion juice to your scalp: Prepare the juice by blending an onion. Then rinse your hair twice a week with this juice before applying shampoo. </li>
 	<li>Add black sesame seeds to your diet: Doing this twice or three times a week may help stop the greying process. It may reverse the process too. </li>
 	<li>Apply coconut oil to your hair and scalp: Do this after dinner and before going to sleep. Wash your hair the next morning.  </li>
 	<li>Consume fo-ti, a Chinese herb used as a supplement: You can take 2,000 milligrams per day overall. It is known to reverse the process of aging in your hair. </li>
 	<li>Apply a mixture of curry leaves and yogurt to your hair: Make sure to wash off after half an hour. Do this process three to four times a week. </li>
 	<li>Add foods rich in enzyme catalyzing to your diet: Common examples of such foods are almonds, kale, cabbage, broccoli, sweet potato, and garlic.  </li>
 	<li>Consume a supplement of ashwagandha with other foods: The herb is also referred to as Indian ginseng. </li>
 	<li>Apply ghee to your scalp and hair, and massage gently: Do this twice a week. </li>
 	<li>Consume wheatgrass: It is beneficial in both juice and powder forms. </li>
 	<li>Apply fresh amaranth juice to your hair: Do this every 2-3 days. </li>
 	<li>Prepare a hair oil by mixing dry rosemary with extra virgin olive oil: Do it by filling in 1/3rd of a jar that can contain 1 cup of liquid with dried rosemary.  </li>
 	<li>Drink carrot juice: Make sure to consume about 220g every day. </li>
 	<li>Apply a mixture of lemon juice, almond oil, and amla juice to your scalp and hair: Do this twice a day for 90 days. </li>
 	<li>Consume amla juice and massage your hair with amla oil: Do this once a week.</li>
</ul>
<img class="aligncenter wp-image-18862 size-full" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/44-1.jpg" alt="Herbal hair dyes to color hairs " width="1920" height="1920" />
<h2>Other lifestyle changes you can opt for to prevent grey hair </h2>
Wondering how to prevent grey hair if the above home remedies alone do not help? You can try the following.  
<ul>
 	<li>Consume sufficient vitamins like vitamins A, E, D, and B </li>
 	<li>Ensure intake of minerals such as magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and selenium </li>
 	<li>Wear a hat or cover your hair with a scarf before going out in the scorching heat of the sun </li>
 	<li>Stay away from active and passive smoking to prevent extra decay of hair follicles </li>
 	<li>Avoid the following hair care procedures that can further damage your hair: </li>
 	<li>Applying soaps or shampoos that are too harsh </li>
 	<li>Bleaching your hair  </li>
 	<li>Frequent washing of hair  </li>
 	<li>Using a hair drier or curling iron that generates too much heat </li>
 	<li>Combing hair with a dense brush instead of using a comb that has wide teeth</li>
</ul>
Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/what-is-dandruff-and-how-to-get-rid-of-it" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What Is Dandruff and How to Get Rid Of It?</a>

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18743" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/44a.png" alt="" width="4001" height="2832" />
<h2>A few techniques to avoid </h2>
<ul>
 	<li>Make sure not to pluck a grey hair </li>
 	<li>Do not use any random cosmetic dyes available on the market </li>
 	<li>Also, avoid harsh hair products like certain shampoos or hair cleansers as they may further damage your hair</li>
</ul>
By knowing about all these home remedies and lifestyle modifications to prevent grey hair, you can enjoy your natural hair color for longer. Take extra care with tips such as purchasing sunscreen for hair, preventing hair fall during monsoon by covering your head when stepping out in the rain, and reducing the occurrence of dry and frizzy hair by using coconut or argan oil.

For the best advice, book an online appointment with a dermatologist or trichologist on Bajaj Finserv Health, and follow their guidelines to give your hair the best treatment. This platform and app help you find medical specialists near you or far away and consult them with ease via video, so you can address all your concerns on time. Try it today and give your hair some TLC!

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that plays a crucial role in managing your body's functions. It is produced in your liver and also can be sourced from certain foods. Note that there are three types of cholesterol: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides. Remember, LDL is called bad cholesterol due to the role it plays in increasing your chances of getting heart disease, as an excess amount of it can cause blockage in your blood vessels. On the other hand, HDL is called good cholesterol as it protects your body from cardiac diseases. 

When it comes to healthy cholesterol levels by age, it is important to note that it tends to climb as we age. It is wise to get the cholesterol test done every five years once one completes the age of 20 [1]. In case you are at risk of heart disease, check your levels more frequently when compared between sexes; studies show that men are at higher risk for a high level of cholesterol than women. However, the cholesterol levels of women also rise once they reach menopause. Read on to learn about the normal cholesterol levels for men, women, and children.

Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/what-is-good-cholesterol-and-how-does-it-differ-from-bad-cholesterol" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What is Good Cholesterol and How Does it Differ From Bad Cholesterol?</a>

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18744" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/43a.png" alt="" width="4001" height="2832" />
<h2>Normal cholesterol levels for adults and children </h2>
The classification of your cholesterol levels can be normal, high, low, or borderline. Take a look at the cholesterols levels by age chart among adults of different sexes and children.
<h2>Cholesterols Levels By Age Chart </h2>
<table style="font-weight: 400; height: 365px;" width="1259" data-tablestyle="MsoTableGrid" data-tablelook="1184" aria-rowcount="5">
<tbody>
<tr aria-rowindex="1">
<td data-celllook="0"> </td>
<td data-celllook="0">Normal cholesterol levels for men aged 20 years or older </td>
<td data-celllook="0">Normal cholesterol levels for women aged 20 years or older </td>
<td data-celllook="0">Normal cholesterol levels for those aged 19 years or younger </td>
</tr>
<tr aria-rowindex="2">
<td data-celllook="0">HDL </td>
<td data-celllook="256">40 mg/dL or higher </td>
<td data-celllook="256">50 mg/dL or higher </td>
<td data-celllook="256">45 mg/dL or higher </td>
</tr>
<tr aria-rowindex="3">
<td data-celllook="0">LDL </td>
<td colspan="3" data-celllook="256">
Lower than 100 mg/dL 
</td>
</tr>
<tr aria-rowindex="4">
<td data-celllook="0">Triglycerides </td>
<td colspan="3" data-celllook="1">
Lower than 150 mg/dL 
</td>
</tr>
<tr aria-rowindex="5">
<td data-celllook="0">Total cholesterol </td>
<td data-celllook="0">125-200 mg/dL </td>
<td data-celllook="0">125-200 mg/dL </td>
<td data-celllook="0">Up to 170 mg/dL </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
As you can see, the ideal range of cholesterol is almost similar for men and women. For children, it is especially important to have their cholesterol level checked between the ages of 9 and 11 years and 17 and 21 years. 

<img class="aligncenter wp-image-18863 size-full" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/43.jpg" alt="some health conditions to check " width="1920" height="1920" />
<h2>Risk factors that need frequent cholesterol checks  </h2>
Apart from your regular check-ups, doctors may want to check your cholesterol levels in case you have any or some of the risk factors that increase LDL or bad cholesterol.

Take a look at the usual risk factors for high cholesterol across ages: 
<ul>
 	<li>Old age </li>
 	<li>Addiction to tobacco </li>
 	<li>Alcoholism </li>
 	<li>Severe inflammatory conditions </li>
 	<li>Type 2 diabetes </li>
 	<li>Metabolic diseases </li>
 	<li>Menopause </li>
 	<li>Family history of cholesterol-related conditions </li>
 	<li>Sedentary lifestyle </li>
 	<li>Following an imbalanced diet </li>
 	<li>Hypertension</li>
</ul>
For children who are at risk, doctors may advise you to also check their cholesterol levels when they are aged between 2 and 8 years and 12 and 16 years.

Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/10-healthy-drinks-you-should-start-drinking-for-low-cholesterol" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10 Healthy Drinks You Should Start Drinking for Low Cholesterol</a>

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18745" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/43b.png" alt="" width="4001" height="2832" />
<h2>How to treat conditions caused by high LDL cholesterol </h2>
To treat LDL-related conditions, it's important to keep your cholesterol level in check. If your LDL level is high, doctors may recommend the following based on your health conditions, age, and sex. 
<ul>
 	<li>Lifestyle modifications </li>
 	<li>Reduce intake of foods highly saturated with fats: Lowering the consumption of foods like red meat, whole milk, and cheese will help you to keep your cholesterol in control.  </li>
 	<li>Increase your physical activity through moderate workouts: Make sure to exercise half an hour to one hour a day to lose extra body weight, keep obesity at bay, and boost the HDL cholesterol.  </li>
 	<li>Stay away from all types of tobacco: If you smoke or consume any other type of tobacco, quit immediately. In case you are exposed to indirect consumption, avoid that too.  </li>
 	<li>Consume healthy fats like nuts, avocado, and olive oil: These won't affect your LDL levels.  </li>
 	<li>Add fiber like whole grains to your diet: It will help you control bad cholesterol from getting beyond of limit.  </li>
 	<li>Limit consumption of alcohol: As per medical guidelines, it is not recommended for men to take more than two drinks per day. And, for women, the limit is one drink per day.</li>
 	<li>Medications </li>
 	<li>Cholesterol absorption inhibitors </li>
 	<li>PCSK9 inhibitors </li>
 	<li>Bile acid sequestrants </li>
 	<li>Bempedoic acid </li>
 	<li>Statins</li>
</ul>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjX78wE9Izc

Considering all these factors, be sure to consult a doctor immediately if you have emergency symptoms such as a myocardial infarction, commonly known as heart attack, or a cerebral stroke, as both of them are an indicator of high cholesterol. Note that there are no other specific high cholesterol symptoms.

So, in order to take preventive measures to control your cholesterol level, get check-ups done from time to time whether you have a family history of high cholesterol diseases or not. For expert advice, you can always get a doctor's consultation on Bajaj Finserv Health via a remote or in-clinic visit. Choose from the top health experts in your area, and give your health the best protection possible!

With aspartate aminotransferase testing or the aspartate aminotransferase lab test, doctors determine whether you have a liver condition or are at risk of developing one. Doctors may also order this test in case you already have liver disease and check the status of the condition by comparing the results.

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme prepared by your liver in a large amount and other organs like the kidney, heart, and brain in comparatively smaller amounts. Apart from that, the enzyme is also present in your muscles and red blood cells. In case of any damage to these organs, cells, or muscles, AST levels can shoot up there as the enzyme may remain highly active for up to 6 hours [1]. The aspartate aminotransferase lab test determines the exact amount of AST enzyme released by injured cells or tissues in your blood.

Read on to learn about the principle of the aspartate aminotransferase test and the other factors related to it.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18445" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/42b.png" alt="" width="4001" height="2832" />
<h2>Why undergo aspartate aminotransferase testing? </h2>
Usually, doctors recommend the aspartate aminotransferase lab test to find out whether you have hepatitis or any other liver disorder. In most cases, aspartate aminotransferase testing is done along with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) testing. Doctors check the AST-to-ALT ratio to make the diagnosis. Note that they may ask you to opt for an AST rest in the following cases.
<h3>If you are experiencing the signs of liver disorder </h3>
The symptoms of liver disease may include nausea and vomiting, fatigue, stomach ache, loss of appetite, dark urine, bleeding disorders, jaundice, swelling of the abdomen, and itching in the skin. 
<h3>If you are at high risk for liver conditions </h3>
Doctors may order aspartate aminotransferase testing in case of factors like genetics, obesity, exposure to hepatitis viruses, diabetes, alcoholism, and substance abuse. All these can severely affect your liver.

Apart from the above, doctors may also order an aspartate aminotransferase lab test in order to check the status of an existing liver condition that you may have. This test can also help check whether any medication is affecting your liver. Moreover, it can indicate whether you have any other medical condition that shoots up AST levels. 

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18726" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/42-1-scaled.jpg" alt="AST levels in blood" width="2560" height="2560" />

Remember, having any of the following conditions may increase your AST levels: 
<ul>
 	<li>Blood cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia </li>
 	<li>Gallbladder disorder </li>
 	<li>Amyloidosis, or abnormal protein accumulation  </li>
 	<li>Heat stroke </li>
 	<li>Pancreatitis </li>
 	<li>Mononucleosis or related infections caused by the herpes virus  </li>
 	<li>Hemochromatosis is a condition related to too much iron in your body </li>
</ul>
Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/what-a-full-body-test-entails-and-why-it-is-important" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What a Full Body Test Entails and Why it is Important?</a> 
<h2>How to prepare for the test? </h2>
Unlike many of the other blood tests, you do not need to fast or stop certain medications before going for aspartate aminotransferase testing. Just make sure to keep yourself hydrated enough so that the healthcare provider can easily locate your vein. Apart from that, wearing loose clothing is advisable so that the process of blood collection becomes easy for both you and the nurse or doctor. Also, inform the person collecting your blood if you are taking any medications so that the sample can be analyzed, taking that into consideration.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18446" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/42a.png" alt="" width="4001" height="2832" />
<h2>What are the liver diseases that may shoot up your AST levels? </h2>
Finding the levels of aspartate aminotransferase high in blood tests means you are at risk of multiple liver diseases. If the AST levels are beyond the normal range but lower than five times the normal range, it may indicate the following disorders: 
<ul>
 	<li>Autoimmune hepatitis </li>
 	<li>Wilson’s disease </li>
 	<li>Hepatitis C </li>
 	<li>Hepatitis B </li>
 	<li>Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency </li>
 	<li>Fatty liver disease (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) </li>
</ul>
If the AST levels are beyond five times the normal range but less than 15 times, the underlying conditions can be any of the above or acute viral hepatitis. In case the AST levels go beyond 15 times the normal range, it may indicate loss of blood supply in the liver (shock liver) or poisoning from acetaminophen. Apart from these, conditions like liver cancer, cirrhosis, and liver trauma caused by physical injury may shoot up the AST levels.

Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/sugar-test-important-things-to-know-about-blood-test-for-diabetes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sugar Test: Important Things to Know About Blood Test for Diabetes</a>

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezmr5nx4a54&amp;t=4s
<h2>What other conditions can cause your AST levels to increase? </h2>
Apart from the liver disorders, here are some health issues or disorders which can spike your AST levels: 
<ul>
 	<li>Autoimmune diseases </li>
 	<li>Myocardial infarction </li>
 	<li>Disorders or diseases in your muscles </li>
 	<li>Surgical procedures </li>
 	<li>Genetic disorders </li>
 	<li>Abnormal destruction of red blood cells </li>
 	<li>Nontropical sprue or celiac disease </li>
 	<li>Burns </li>
 	<li>Substance usage </li>
 	<li>Extreme stress </li>
 	<li>Having some medications injected into your muscle </li>
 	<li>Convulsions</li>
</ul>
With all this information regarding aspartate aminotransferase testing, you can be more informed and get yourself tested when needed. To get your blood sample collected from home, you can book this lab test on Bajaj Finserv Health for a discounted price of just Rs.278. Here you can also book a sugar test and other diagnostic packages and enjoy deals on each one.

For more deals and discounts, sign up for Aarogya Care medical insurance. With a Complete Health Solution plan to cover your healthcare expenses, for instance, you can also enjoy a lab test discount and unlimited teleconsultations with doctors at no charge. With high coverage and cashless benefits, this policy offers wellness, preventive, and illness benefits. By investing in your health and monitoring it regularly, you can enjoy life every step of the way!

Black pepper is a traditional Indian spice, widely known and used across the world. The source plant is woody, tall, and has little yellowish-red flowers; and is mostly seen in the Western Ghats regions in India. Each of the flowers has a seed inside, which is called peppercorn. Black pepper is prepared by grinding peppercorns and has an aromatic essence.  

India is also the #1 producer, consumer, and exporter of this crop.

Black pepper benefits your health in multiple ways. Take a look at the nutrients that your body gets with black pepper: 
<ul>
 	<li>Vitamin A </li>
 	<li>Iron </li>
 	<li>Vitamin B1 </li>
 	<li>Manganese </li>
 	<li>Vitamin B2 </li>
 	<li>Calcium </li>
 	<li>Vitamin B5 </li>
 	<li>Phosphorous </li>
 	<li>Vitamin B6 </li>
 	<li>Potassium </li>
 	<li>Vitamin C </li>
 	<li>Zinc </li>
 	<li>Vitamin E </li>
 	<li>Chromium </li>
 	<li>Vitamin K </li>
 	<li>Selenium </li>
</ul>
To know about the important health benefits of black pepper, read on.

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<h2>Top black pepper benefits for health</h2>
<h3>Reduces damage by free radicals </h3>
With the help of the antioxidant properties of piperine, a compound present in black pepper, this spice fights free radicals that cause harm to your cells. Note that a high number of free radicals may be produced if you are exposed to the sun, smoking, or other types of pollution [1].

According to multiple studies, ground black pepper and other piperine supplements may lower the damage caused by free radicals [2]. Thus, having black pepper in your daily diet has helped you decrease the risk for chronic health issues such as heart conditions and cataracts. 

Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/blackberries-benefits" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7 Amazing Benefits Of Blackberries For Your Health Lifestyle</a>
<h3>Helps reduce inflammation </h3>
Inflammation can be a sign of different health disorders such as cardiac disease, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. There are multiple lab studies indicating piperine helps lower inflammation, but more studies are needed to substantiate this. 
<h3>May control diabetes </h3>
Among the various black pepper benefits, one of the most crucial ones is its possible role in controlling diabetes. Multiple studies have shown that piperine may aid blood sugar metabolism. In fact, promoting the function of the digestive tract is one of the known features of this spice [3].

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-18725" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/41-1-scaled.jpg" alt="nutrition in Black Pepper" width="2560" height="2560" />
<h3>May aid brain functions </h3>
In multiple studies on animals, it has been found that piperine helps in reducing the symptoms of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. As per research, it also improves memory and other cognitive functions such as decision-making, perception, and comprehension [4].  

More studies of the benefit of piperine in human beings are required to further study this claim. 
<h3>May work as a pain reliever </h3>
In multiple studies among rodents, it has been observed that piperine may work as a pain reliever. However, this also requires to be studied in human beings.
<h3>May reduce cholesterol levels. </h3>
Extract of black pepper may play a major role in reducing your cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is linked to heart diseases, which can cause further damage to your health. Studies among rats have successfully proved it as a factor that reduces total cholesterol and well as bad cholesterol (LDL). Apart from that, consumption of piperine and black pepper with hot water benefits you by boosting the absorption of dietary supplements that play a major role in reducing cholesterol.

<img class="aligncenter wp-image-18881 size-full" title="Black Pepper Benefits" src="https://wp-api.bajajfinservhealth.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/41a.jpg" alt="Black Pepper Benefits" width="1920" height="1280" />

Additional Read: <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/muskmelon-benefits" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7 Muskmelon Benefits and Nutritional Value For Better Health</a>
<h3>May help fight cancer </h3>
Multiple studies also indicate that black pepper and piperine may help fight cancer. In laboratory studies, it has successfully reversed multidrug resistance in the cells affected by cancer. In fact, research indicates that the ability to destroy free radicals can aid in chemoprevention and limit the growth of tumors [4]. 

Apart from all these uses of black pepper, it can also increase the number of good bacteria in your gut, which boosts metabolism. In Indian households, a traditional remedy for coughs includes black pepper with other ingredients like tulsi, honey, and ginger. Black pepper is also one of the elements of kadhas to improve immunity.

However, it is important to note that black pepper can also be allergic to some people. It can cause symptoms like stomachache, hives, itching in the mouth, wheezing, nausea and vomiting, and inflammation in your tongue, throat, mouth, or lips. As alternatives to black pepper, you can consider spices like allspice, cayenne pepper, and chili powder.

Now you know how having long black peppers benefit you. You can actively use it in more dishes. Though some of the black pepper benefits are yet to be tested in humans, the pattern of results observed in animal testing emits a strong ray of hope. For concerns regarding black pepper allergies or other foods for immunity boosting, you can get a doctor's consultation on Bajaj Finserv Health. On this app and website, you can find the right nutritionists and specialists and book a video appointment from the comfort of home. This way, you can get the right health information at your fingertips and boost your well-being!

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