Ways of eating idlis

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 During my trip down South, I had the opportunity to watch common people enjoy traditional southern foods. Idlis are one such popular food items that can be consumed anytime of the day. They can be had during breakfast, lunch, or dinner or anytime in between.  Idlis are traditionally South Indian delicacies. They are rice and lentil cakes that are steamed. They are usually salty but in Mauritius, you will find sweet varities as well in small shops and restaurants there.  Idlis are healthy food items and are a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. They have minerals and vitamins and have the goodness of fermented foods too. They are served with sambhar (curry made of dal) and chutney (coconut, tomato or the like). Some also savour them with yoghurt, ghee (clarified butter) or spice mix (podi).  Idli pizza A modern twist to idli dish has been as idli masala (idlis usually small-sized covered with spices), idli fry (idlis usually small-sized that are...
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Giardiasis: reason for stomach ache

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Giardiasis is an infectious gut condition caused by Giardia lamblia. This parasite reaches the gut via infected food and water. It attaches to the gut lining and proliferates to produce disease in the patient. 

Symptoms 

Giardiasis causes nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, gas, bloating, loose motions, weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite. It interferes with nutrients absorption and if untreated can gradually cause weight loss. 


Stools are pale in color, greasy and foul smelling. Loose motions are either recurrent or persistent. Heartburns are common. 

Read here: Obesity in children in India 

Reason for stomach ache in giardiasis 

1. The pathogens invade the gut lining and cause inflammation. 

2. There are muscle cramps due to the inflammatory response 

3. Gas formation leads to stomach ache

4. There is absorptive disorder. Bile salts are not absorbed and there is imbalance of acid formation. Hyperacidity is common and this too causes tummy pain. 

Prompt treatment with oral metronidazole or secnidazole cures the disorder. Five to seven days course with metronidazole or a stat dose of secnidazole is beneficial. 


Stool sampling may be required for diagnosis if symptoms are unusual or mild or mimic other gut conditions. 

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