Australia's most decorated living soldier, Ben Roberts-Smith, has been released from jail after being granted bail over alleged war crimes. The Victoria Cross recipient and former corporal in Australia's Special Air Service (SAS) Regiment was taken into custody last week
India's smartphone shipments fell 3% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, marking their weakest quarterly performance in six years as cost pressures, price hikes and soft demand weighed on sales, said on Friday.Over 80 smartphone models saw average price hikes of 15%
Charlie Kirk murder accused pushes to ban cameras from court, says live broadcasts violate his right to fair trialTyler Robinson is due in court Friday as his attorneys press their claims that biased coverage is tainting potential jurors in his aggravated murder case. Published on: Apr 17
SpiceJet flight clips Akasa plane at Delhi airport; probe orderedThe incident occurred around 2.15pm near Terminal 1 in IGI. Updated on: Apr 17, 2026 1:52 PM IST By Jasjeev Gandhiok Share via Copy link Two aircraft — operated by SpiceJet and Akasa — clipped wings while taxiing at Delhi’s
Theegala gets off to a good start at RBC HeritageTheegala gets off to a good start at RBC Heritage Published on: Apr 17, 2026 12:46 PM IST PTI Share via Copy link Hilton Head Island , Sahith Theegala started his week at the RBC Heritage with an opening round of 2-under 69 and was placed T-27 on the
The Supreme Court on Friday declined Congress leader Pawan Khera’s petition to vacate a stay on a Telangana High Court order granting him transit anticipatory bail in a case registered by the Assam Police, Live Law reported. A bench comprising Justices JK Maheshwari and Atul S Chandurkar also
The Centre’s proposal to expand the Lok Sabha and carry out a fresh delimitation exercise has triggered an intense political and constitutional debate, particularly around its potential impact on southern states. At the centre of the discussion is whether the proposed expansion will maintain the
A heartwarming video of a father intently reading his son’s job offer letter from Amazon has gone viral on social media, touching thousands with its simple display of pride and sacrifice. The now viral video, which has been widely shared and praised for its authenticity
Cancer surgeon explains why managing your blood sugar matters for a long life

People trying to eat healthier struggle with sugar cravings and often think it's due to a lack of willpower. However, an oncologist, who often talks about longevity and lifestyle diseases, suggests that the real issue may be nutritional gaps in the body. Some foods can help reduce sugar cravings by balancing hormones, stabilising insulin levels, and improving gut health, all of which are important for long-term control of cravings.
“As a laparoscopic cancer surgeon, I know how closely blood sugar levels connect to health. People see diabetes as just high blood sugar, but it affects much more than that. Managing blood sugar can help prevent not just diabetes but also various types of cancer, and it's a critical link between gut health and cancer risk. Small changes can lead to a longer, healthier life,” Dr Arpit Bansal tells Health Shots.
When blood sugar levels rise sharply, the body reacts with inflammation. Inflammation is like the body's alarm system, meant to protect us from harm. However, if high blood sugar happens often, this inflammation can become constant. "Chronic inflammation can harm sensitive systems in our body, especially our gut health", shares the doctor. Sudden spikes and drops in blood sugar can create small waves of inflammation. These may not be noticeable at first, but they can cause long-lasting damage.
The gut microbiome plays an important role in our health. Our intestines have trillions of bacteria, both good and bad. These bacteria are crucial for digestion, immune response, and overall wellness. "When we don't manage blood sugar well, harmful bacteria can proliferate, leading to a condition known as leaky gut", says the expert. This happens when the gut's protective barrier is damaged, allowing toxins to enter the bloodstream and further inflaming the body.
Research in PubMed Central shows that inflammation in the body can lead to cancer, even before we notice any symptoms. "This connection is particularly strong for colon cancer and other cancers of the digestive system", says Dr Bansal. Still, it may also affect different types of cancer.
Gut health plays a key role in cancer risk. Our immune system depends on a healthy gut microbiome to work well. If the gut is not healthy, the immune response can weaken. A recent study by the American Diabetes Association shows that people with high inflammation from poor blood sugar control have a higher risk of developing certain cancers. For example, a study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that people with high blood sugar levels are more likely to get colorectal cancer, among other types.
When the gut is healthy, it helps protect us from harmful substances and maintains a balanced internal environment. "To strengthen this natural protection, we should focus on food choices that support both blood sugar control and gut health", says the surgeon.
Managing blood sugar is more than just avoiding sweets. It's important to create balanced meals that keep you feeling full. "Include foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes", adds Dr Bansal. These foods help keep blood sugar levels steady. In contrast, processed foods can cause quick spikes and drops in blood sugar, leading to inflammation.
Watch your portions and snack mindfully. Swapping a bag of chips for an apple is a simple choice that can make a big difference. "Eating a range of nutrient-rich foods helps control blood sugar levels", shares the gut expert. It supports healthy gut bacteria, which is important for a strong microbiome.
Start small. Daily activities like walking or cycling can improve your metabolism and blood sugar levels. "Choose the stairs instead of the elevator, or take short breaks to move during the day", says the gut doctor. Adding brief exercise sessions can boost your metabolism and help control blood sugar, leading to better health over time.
Managing stress is very important. Practices like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help lower stress and stabilise blood sugar levels. When stress hormones rise, they can cause blood sugar spikes and negatively impact gut health.
One of the easiest ways to stay healthy for a long time is to have regular check-ups. "I recommend that my patients have their blood sugar levels checked annually. Catching problems early is critical," shares the doctor. If you notice any sudden changes in your digestion or strange symptoms, don't ignore them. These signs could mean something is wrong with how your body manages blood sugar.
Taking charge of your health means being proactive. “You can improve your health and live longer by changing your diet, being more active, and paying attention to your body's signals,” says the doctor.
Diabetes is often linked to sugar intake, but it involves much more. It reminds us that our daily choices about food, exercise, and stress management are crucial to our long-term health. “The connection between gut health and cancer underscores the importance of taking a comprehensive approach to health, focusing on factors beyond one's control,” says the laparoscopic surgeon.
(Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.)
Source: HindustanTimes
Related Posts: Common Cancer Warning Signs People Often Ignore Lifestyle coach shares 10 healthy ways to curb cravings naturally 5 Better-For-You Snacks To Swap In When Junk Cravings Spike When winter cravings hit Study links quality sleep to better weight loss and fewer cravings Can food cravings help detect cancer Early warning signs of childhood eye cancer that parents often miss Gastroenterologist explains why those who lose lots of weight often regain it Why January Fitness Resolutions Often Lead To Injuries And How To Prevent Them THESE Body Parts Stay Dirty No Matter How Often You Shower
Gold rate today: Prices fall amid US war on Iran, 24K at ₹1.53 lakh; check latest rates in your cityOver the past week, 24-carat gold has eased by 0.41%, while it is down 5.74% over the past month. Updated on: Apr 17, 2026 12:29 PM IST By HT News Desk Share via Copy link Gold prices declined on
1 days ago
A 10-day ceasefire deal agreed between Lebanon and Israel took effect on Thursday (April 16, 2026), as U.S. President Donald Trump said he was trying to set up the first-ever meeting between the leaders of the two countries. The truce, which Mr
1 days ago
Vivo Y600 Pro has been officially teased in China, with the brand revealing key details about its design and positioning. The most interesting aspect of this phone is that it will pack the largest battery ever seen on a Vivo phone. Here’s a look at what to expect from it
1 days ago
China is using social media platforms like Douyin to spread messages from Taiwanese opposition figures. These clips are then shared on platforms popular in Taiwan, aiming to discredit President Lai Ching-te's government. The campaign seeks to weaken Taiwan's resolve and discourage defense spending
1 days ago
Nearly 20% of the 1,478 candidates contesting the first phase of the West Bengal polls are crorepatis, with a significant share belonging to the Trinamool Congress (TMC), while the poorest candidate has declared assets of just ₹500, according to an analysis of poll affidavits
1 days ago
The round of job losses, the biggest at the BBC since 2011, is being set in motion before the former top Google executive Matt Brittin takes over as director general next month. BBC Layoffs: UK media giant British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) on Wednesday announced that it has planned to axe as
1 days ago
A new space race is unfolding as the United States and China compete for lunar dominance. Both nations are pushing for crewed Moon landings, with the US Artemis program and China's 2030 goal. They are also vying to set the rules for future lunar governance
1 days ago
The 2026 Yamaha Fascino 125 Fi Hybrid has been launched at Rs 76,500 for the base model(drum), and the top variant(disc) will set you back by Rs 95,200. The new updates include newly sculpted tail section, redesigned taillights, flashers, and distinctive V‑iconic taillight design
1 days ago
A viral video showing Donald Trump handing a $100 tip to a DoorDash delivery worker inside the White House has taken over social media, but even he now admits it didn’t quite land the way it was meant to. Speaking at a roundtable in Las Vegas, Trump addressed the moment directly
1 days ago
'The camel dreams of cottonseed...': Iran mocks Trump's peace deal claimsThe Iran state media also shared a Persian proverb: "The camel dreams of cottonseed; sometimes gulping it down, sometimes eating it grain by grain" Updated on: Apr 17, 2026 12:29 PM IST By Karishma Ayaldasani Share via Copy
1 days ago
Chinese carmaker Seres has been granted a patent for what it calls an "in-vehicle toilet" that slides under a passenger's seat for visits to the loo while on the road. The feature is meant to "satisfy users' toilet needs on long journeys, while camping or while staying in the car"
1 days ago
Chennai's Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni constituency sees a key contest between Udhayanidhi Stalin and Adhi Rajaram. Stalin seeks re-election from this DMK stronghold. Rajaram aims to end the DMK's dominance and promises development. Other candidates are also in the fray
1 days ago
Clashes erupted between police personnel and protesters in Manipur’s Imphal West district after thousands defied orders prohibiting public gatherings to take out a torch rally against a recent attack that killed two children, India Today NE reported
1 days ago
The Supreme Court on Friday (April 17, 2026) cautioned the Madhya Pradesh government that it would order the deployment of paramilitary forces to curb rampant illegal sand mining in the ecologically fragile and protected National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary if the State failed to initiate prosecution
1 days ago
India has entered summer, and some parts of the country are already facing harsh weather conditions. The heat of the summer season is slowly but surely getting unbearable. When the mercury crosses 40°C, which has been predicted to happen this month
1 days ago
World Athletics on Thursday rejected applications from 11 elite athletes seeking to transfer their allegiance to Turkey, dealing a major blow to the country’s medal prospects at the 2028 Olympics. Four leading Jamaicans, including 2024 Olympic men’s discus gold medallist Roje Stona
1 days ago
The Indian rupee gains against the US dollar in early trade on Friday, supported by easing geopolitical tensions, positive domestic equity markets and fresh foreign fund inflows. The Indian rupee strengthened by 39 paise to 92.75 against the US dollar in early trade on Friday
1 days ago
India has slipped from the world’s fifth-largest economy to sixth place in 2025, according to the latest International Monetary Fund estimates, even as it continues to remain the fastest-growing major economy globally. The decline in ranking is not because India’s economy shrank in real terms
1 days ago
Viral video shows Hyderabad security guard working under mosquito net at night, raises questions on dignity of labourA Hyderabad security guard was seen sitting under a mosquito net on night duty, sparking debate over poor working conditions and lack of basic facilities. Published on: Apr 17
1 days ago
Alia Bhatt's sister Shaheen Bhatt gets engaged to boyfriend Ishaan Mehra, actor says she is ‘currently weeping’Shaheen Bhatt announced her engagement to her boyfriend, Ishaan Mehra, on Instagram. Check out how Alia Bhatt reacted. Apr 17, 2026
1 days ago
As India’s AI ecosystem moves from experimentation to execution, the need to recognise real, measurable innovation has become critical. The ET Most Innovative AI Product Awards 2026 is designed to evaluate AI products based on architecture, deployment, and business impact across startups, SMEs
1 days ago
Google Gemini now uses Photos to understand your taste and create custom imagesGoogle adds Personal Intelligence to Gemini, letting it auto-use Google Photos to create personalised AI images without manual uploads or detailed prompts. Updated on: Apr 17
1 days ago
Shruti Haasan looks stunning in a crimson cocktail saree as she poses with a suited Kamal Haasan at INCA Awards 2026The father and daughter turned heads on the red carpet as they posed in dapper outfits. Here's a closer look at what Shruti Haasan and Kamal Haasan wore. Updated on: Apr 17
1 days ago
, India’s fourth-largest software services exporter, reported a decline in attrition to 13.8% from 14.2% in the fourth quarter on Thursday.After a net addition of 6,529 employees in the December quarter, the company added only 136 staff between January and March, taking its total headcount to 242
1 days ago
IGPL South Africa: Red-hot Mane fires flawless 64 to take six-shot leadIGPL South Africa: Red-hot Mane fires flawless 64 to take six-shot lead Updated on: Apr 17, 2026 1:58 PM IST PTI Share via Copy link Johannesburg, Continuing his red-hot form
1 days ago
In 2025, Alia Bhatt’s sister, Shaheen Bhatt, made her relationship with fitness coach Ishaan Mehra Instagram official. Since then, the duo has been giving major couples on social media. Interestingly, the couple is now engaged. On April 17, Shaheen took to social media and shared a series of
1 days ago
Brent crude slipped toward $98 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate hovered near $93, partially reversing previous session’s sharp gains Oil prices eased after US President Donald Trump struck a more optimistic tone on the prospects of a lasting ceasefire with Iran
1 days ago