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Exploring the Impact of Diet on Sleep Quality: An Analysis

InnoHEALTH magazine digital team — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 03:53:00 +0000

In an increasingly demanding and fast-paced world, sleep has become a critical component of our overall health and well-being. As an essential biological process that allows our bodies to rest, recuperate, and perform necessary maintenance, sleep plays a vital role in sustaining optimal physical, cognitive, and emotional health. However, a significant number of individuals continue to grapple with poor sleep quality, which can adversely affect their daily functioning, productivity, and long-term health. While myriad factors can influence sleep quality, an often overlooked yet crucial aspect is the intricate connection between diet and sleep.

The significance of diet in relation to sleep quality is immense. Our dietary choices not only furnish the energy and nutrients our bodies require for optimal functioning but can also directly impact the quality of our sleep. From the types of foods, we consume to the timing of our meals, diet has a considerable influence on our ability to fall asleep, remain asleep, and experience restorative rest.

The relationship between diet and sleep is intricate and multidimensional, as it encompasses various factors such as macronutrient balance, micronutrient intake, and the consumption of specific foods that can either promote or disrupt sleep.

In this article, we will embark on an in-depth exploration of the complex connection between diet and sleep quality. We will examine the roles of various macronutrients, micronutrients, and specific foods in relation to sleep, as well as discuss the impact of stimulants, depressants, meal timing, and hydration. We will also delve into the effects of different dietary patterns on sleep quality and address special considerations for distinct populations. Armed with a comprehensive understanding of the connection between diet and sleep, readers will be better equipped to make informed dietary choices that foster restful, rejuvenating sleep, thereby enhancing their overall health and well-being.

Macronutrients and Sleep: The Roles of Carbohydrates, Protein, and Fat

Macronutrients, comprising carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, are the primary components of our diets and play a critical role in determining sleep quality. Each macronutrient has unique effects on sleep, which are important to consider when making dietary choices.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for the body and can influence sleep quality in several ways. Consuming complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can have positive effects on sleep due to their slow release of energy and high fibre content. These foods help maintain stable blood sugar levels, which can prevent night-time awakenings caused by low blood sugar. Moreover, complex carbohydrates promote the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that aids in sleep regulation.

Conversely, consuming simple carbohydrates, such as sugary snacks and refined grains, can negatively impact sleep quality. These foods cause rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, leading to restless sleep and night-time awakenings. Additionally, excessive sugar intake can cause feelings of alertness, making it difficult to fall asleep.

Protein

Protein is essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. It also influences sleep quality, as some amino acids found in protein-rich foods promote sleep. For example, tryptophan, an amino acid found in foods like turkey, chicken, and dairy products, is a precursor to serotonin and melatonin, both of which regulate sleep. Consuming protein-rich foods with complex carbohydrates can enhance the absorption of tryptophan, promoting better sleep. However, consuming large amounts of protein close to bedtime may lead to digestive discomfort, which can disrupt sleep.

Fat

Fat plays a significant role in hormone production and energy storage. Consuming healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in avocados, nuts, and fish, can improve sleep quality by supporting hormone balance and reducing inflammation. Conversely, a diet high in saturated and trans fats, commonly found in processed foods and fried items, can lead to poor sleep quality by causing inflammation and hormonal imbalances.

Micronutrients and Sleep: Essential Vitamins and Minerals for Restful Nights

Magnesium:

Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a role in muscle relaxation, nerve function, and stress reduction. It also helps regulate melatonin, a hormone that controls sleep-wake cycles. Magnesium deficiency has been linked to insomnia and restless leg syndrome, both of which can disrupt sleep. Foods rich in magnesium include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

Calcium:

Calcium is vital for bone health and plays a role in sleep regulation. It aids in the production of melatonin, which helps maintain normal sleep-wake cycles. Consuming calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified plant-based milk, can help improve sleep quality.

Vitamin D:

Vitamin D is essential for bone health and immune function, but it also has an impact on sleep quality. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to poor sleep quality and shorter sleep duration. Vitamin D can be synthesised from sunlight exposure, but it is also found in fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods.

Vitamin B6:

Vitamin B6 is crucial for brain function and the synthesis of neurotransmitters, including serotonin and melatonin. A deficiency in vitamin B6 can lead to sleep disturbances and insomnia. Foods rich in vitamin B6 include chickpeas, bananas, fish, and poultry. Consuming a balanced diet that includes vitamin B6- rich foods can help support restful sleep.

Iron:

Iron is an essential mineral that plays a key role in the production of haemoglobin, which transports oxygen to the body’s tissues. Iron deficiency has been associated with restless leg syndrome, a condition that can disrupt sleep. To maintain adequate iron levels, it is essential to consume iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals. Iron supplements may be necessary for individuals with diagnosed deficiencies.

Potassium:

Hemoglobin, which transports oxygen to the body’s tissues. Iron deficiency has Iron is an essential mineral that plays a key role in the production of been associated with restless leg syndrome, a condition that can disrupt sleep. To maintain adequate iron levels, it is essential to consume iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals. Iron supplements may be necessary for individuals with diagnosed deficiencies.

Table: Impact of Macro and Micronutrients on Sleep Quality: Positives and Negatives

Nutrient	Positive Effects on Sleep	Negative Effects on Sleep
Macro Nutrients
Carbohydrates	Increase tryptophan for sleep promotion	High-glycaemic, refined, or sugary carbs can cause wakefulness
Proteins	Rich in tryptophan, aiding in sleep hormone production	Rich in tryptophan, aiding in sleep hormone production
Proteins	Healthy fats (like omega-3) boost sleep-promoting serotonin	High saturated fats can reduce sleep quality
Macro Nutrients
Magnesium	Regulates bio clock and melatonin levels	Too much can cause diarrhoea, which can interrupt sleep.
Calcium	Aids in melatonin production	Excessive calcium, especially when not balanced with other minerals like magnesium, can lead to constipation or kidney stones, causing discomfort and potential sleep disturbances
Vitamin D	Regulates sleep-wake cycle	Overconsumption of vitamin D can result in over-calcification of the bones and the hardening of blood vessels, kidneys, lungs, and heart, leading to discomfort and potential sleep disturbances.
Iron	Prevents Restless Leg Syndrome, a sleep disruptor	Iron overload can lead to conditions like hemochromatosis, which can cause symptoms such as joint pain and fatigue, potentially interfering with sleep.
Potassium	Aids in muscle relaxation for better sleep	High potassium levels can cause hyperkalaemia, leading to symptoms like irregular heart rhythms and palpitations, which can disrupt sleep.
B Vitamins	Regulate tryptophan and serotonin production	Certain B vitamins, such as B6 and B12, can cause vivid dreams or nightmares if taken in excess, potentially disturbing sleep.

Briefly, micronutrients play a vital role in promoting restful sleep. Ensuring adequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals, either through a balanced diet or supplementation, can lead to improved sleep quality and overall well-being. By understanding the importance of micronutrients for sleep and making appropriate dietary choices, individuals can support their bodies in achieving restorative rest, which is essential for maintaining optimal health.

The Effects of Specific Foods on Sleep

Certain foods have been found to have specific effects on sleep, either promoting restful slumber or potentially disrupting it. Understanding the impact of these foods can help individuals make informed dietary choices that support healthy sleep patterns. Here, we will explore the effects of various foods on sleep, ranging from dairy to dark chocolate.

Dairy:

Dairy products, such as milk, yoghourt, and cheese, contain a combination of nutrients that can potentially promote better sleep. These products are rich in calcium and tryptophan, which are involved in the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. The consumption of warm milk before bedtime has long been associated with improved sleep quality, although the scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited. Nevertheless, incorporating dairy products into a balanced diet may have a positive impact on sleep.

Dark Chocolate:

Dark chocolate is often touted for its numerous health benefits, including its antioxidant properties and positive effects on cardiovascular health. However, it also contains a small amount of caffeine and theobromine, both of which are stimulants that can potentially disrupt sleep, particularly when consumed close to bedtime. While dark chocolate in moderation is unlikely to significantly impact sleep for most individuals, those who are sensitive to caffeine or have difficulty falling asleep may want to avoid it in the evening.

Cherries:

Cherries, particularly tart cherries, are a natural source of melatonin, which helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. Consuming cherries or cherry juice, especially in the evening, has been associated with improvements in sleep quality and duration in some studies. Incorporating cherries into the diet may offer a natural and delicious way to support restful sleep.

Almonds:

Almonds are a nutrient-dense snack that can have positive effects on sleep. They contain magnesium, a mineral known for its muscle-relaxing properties and ability to support healthy sleep. Additionally, almonds provide a source of healthy fats and protein, which can contribute to a feeling of satiety and help maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the night. Including almonds as a bedtime snack may promote better sleep quality.

Bananas:

Bananas are rich in potassium and magnesium, both of which are essential for muscle relaxation and can potentially improve sleep quality. They also contain tryptophan, which is converted to serotonin and melatonin, promoting relaxation and sleepiness. Consuming a banana before bedtime may offer a natural way to support restful sleep.

Fatty Fish:

Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, both of which have been associated with improved sleep quality. Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, while vitamin D plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles. Including fatty fish in the diet can contribute to better sleep and overall health.

Herbal Teas:

Herbal teas, such as chamomile, valerian root, and passionflower, have long been used as natural sleep aids. These teas contain various compounds that may promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. Drinking a warm cup of herbal tea before bedtime can be a soothing and beneficial addition to a night-time routine.

As revealed, specific foods can have varying effects on sleep, either promoting relaxation and restfulness or potentially disrupting it. By understanding the impact of these foods and incorporating them appropriately into the diet, individuals can support healthy sleep patterns and enjoy the benefits of restorative rest.

Caffeine, Alcohol, and Sleep: The Impact of Stimulants and Depressants

Both stimulants and depressants can have a significant impact on sleep quality, duration, and overall health. Caffeine and alcohol are two of the most consumed substances that can influence sleep. Understanding their effects on sleep can help individuals make informed choices and develop habits that promote restful sleep.

Caffeine:

Caffeine is a natural stimulant commonly found in coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, and some medications. It works by blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes sleepiness, thereby increasing alertness and wakefulness.

While moderate caffeine consumption can improve focus and productivity, excessive intake, or consumption close to bedtime can negatively impact sleep by:

Prolonging the time, it takes to fall asleep.
Reducing total sleep time.
Causing frequent awakenings during the night.
Reducing the quality of deep sleep stages.
Caffeine’s effects can vary depending on individual sensitivity, metabolism, and tolerance. To minimize its impact on sleep, it is generally recommended to limit caffeine intake in the afternoon and evening and consume it in moderation.

Impact on sleep, it is generally recommended to limit caffeine intake in the afternoon and evening and consume it in moderation.

Alcohol:

Alcohol is a depressant that initially induces feelings of relaxation and drowsiness, which may lead to the misconception that it aids sleep. While alcohol can help individuals fall asleep faster, it negatively impacts sleep quality in several ways:

Disrupting the normal sleep cycle, causing sleep fragmentation and frequent awakenings
Reducing rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is essential for memory consolidation and emotional regulation.
Exacerbating sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, and contributing to increased snoring.
Causing dehydration, which can lead to night-time awakenings and discomfort.

To support better sleep, it is advisable to consume alcohol in moderation and avoid it close to bedtime. Implementing a “wind-down” routine that includes relaxation techniques and creating a sleep-conducive environment can help counteract the negative effects of alcohol on sleep.

Consequently, both stimulants, such as caffeine, and depressants, like alcohol, can significantly impact sleep quality and overall health. By being mindful of their consumption and understanding their effects on sleep, individuals can make informed choices that promote restful sleep and contribute to overall well-being. Developing healthy sleep habits and creating a sleep-conducive environment can further support restorative sleep and optimal health.

Timing Matters: The Role of Meal Timing in Sleep Quality

Meal timing plays a significant role in sleep quality, as it can influence the body’s natural circadian rhythm, hormone production, and digestion. Paying attention to meal timing can help promote restful sleep and support overall well-being. The following factors highlight the importance of meal timing for sleep:

a. Regular meal times:

Establishing regular meal times can help synchronise the body’s internal clock, promoting consistent sleep patterns. Eating at consistent times supports the release of hunger-regulating hormones, such as ghrelin and leptin, which can also influence sleep regulation. Sticking to a regular eating schedule can make it easier for the body to anticipate and prepare for sleep.

b. Heavy meals before bedtime:

Eating a large meal close to bedtime can lead to discomfort and indigestion, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Lying down soon after a heavy meal can cause acid reflux, heartburn, and other gastrointestinal issues that can disrupt sleep. To prevent this, it is recommended to have dinner at least 2-3 hours before bedtime, allowing sufficient time for digestion.

c. Late-night snacking:

While it is important to avoid heavy meals before bedtime, going to bed hungry can also disrupt sleep. Hunger can make it difficult to fall asleep or cause night-time awakenings. If hunger strikes close to bedtime, opt for a light, sleep- promoting snack such as a small bowl of whole-grain cereal with milk, a piece of fruit with a handful of nuts, or a few whole-grain crackers with cheese.

d. Balanced meals:

Consuming balanced meals that include complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, which is essential for restful sleep. Avoiding excessive sugar and simple carbohydrates can prevent blood sugar fluctuations that may cause night-time awakenings. Nutrient-rich meals can also provide the body with essential vitamins and minerals that support sleep, such as magnesium, calcium, and vitamin D.

e. Caffeine and alcohol:

As previously discussed, caffeine and alcohol can negatively impact sleep quality. To minimize their effects on sleep, it is essential to limit caffeine intake in the afternoon and evening and consume alcohol in moderation. Avoiding these substances close to bedtime can help promote restful sleep.

f. Pre-sleep routine:

In addition to meal timing, having a pre-sleep routine that includes relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or reading, can help signal the body that it’s time for sleep. Creating a sleep-conducive environment that is cool, dark, and quiet can further enhance sleep quality.

Meal timing plays a crucial role in sleep quality. By paying attention to regular meal times, avoiding heavy meals before bedtime, and consuming balanced meals, individuals can support healthy sleep patterns and overall well-being. Considering these factors, along with the impact of caffeine and alcohol on sleep, can help create a sleep-friendly lifestyle that promotes restorative rest and optimal health.

Hydration and Sleep: The Importance of Adequate Fluid Intake

Maintaining proper hydration is essential for overall health and well-being, and it plays a crucial role in sleep quality. Adequate fluid intake supports various bodily functions that can impact sleep, including:

a. Temperature regulation:

During sleep, the body’s core temperature decreases as part of the natural sleep process. Proper hydration helps maintain optimal body temperature, ensuring that the body can cool down and enter deep sleep stages effectively.

b. Hormone production:

Adequate hydration supports hormone production, including the release of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Dehydration can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to sleep disturbances and insomnia.

c. Removal of waste products:

During sleep, the body repairs and restores itself, including the removal of waste products and toxins. Proper hydration supports efficient waste removal and prevents the build-up of toxins that can negatively affect sleep.sleep- wake cycles. Dehydration can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to sleep disturbances and insomnia.

d. Prevention of night-time awakenings:

Dehydration can lead to dry mouth, throat discomfort, and increased thirst, which can cause night-time awakenings and disrupt sleep. Ensuring proper fluid intake throughout the day can help prevent these issues and promote restful sleep.

To maintain proper hydration for better sleep, consider the following tips:

Drink water consistently throughout the day, aiming for at least eight 8-ounce glasses.
Limit caffeine and alcohol intake, as they can cause dehydration.
Consume water-rich fruits and vegetables, such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges, to supplement fluid intake.
Keep a glass of water by the bed for easy access if you wake up thirsty during the night.

Dietary Patterns and Sleep: Examining Popular Diets and Their Effects on Sleep

Various popular diets can have different effects on sleep quality, as they emphasise different nutrients and food choices. Some of the most popular diets and their potential impact on sleep include:

a. Mediterranean Diet:

The Mediterranean diet emphasises whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and lean protein sources, such as fish and poultry. This diet has been associated with various health benefits, including improved sleep quality. The nutrient- dense foods in the Mediterranean diet provide essential vitamins and minerals that support sleep, such as magnesium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.

b. Ketogenic Diet:

The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has gained popularity for its potential weight loss and health benefits. While some individuals may experience improved sleep on a ketogenic diet due to stable blood sugar levels and reduced inflammation, others may experience sleep disturbances due to limited carbohydrate intake, which can affect serotonin production and disrupt sleep-wake cycles.

c. Plant-based Diet:

A plant-based diet focuses on consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds while limiting or eliminating animal products. This diet can promote better sleep as it is rich in nutrients that support sleep, such as magnesium and tryptophan. However, it is essential to ensure adequate protein intake and proper balance of nutrients for optimal sleep and overall health.

d. Intermittent Fasting:

Intermittent fasting involves alternating periods of eating and fasting, with various fasting methods available. Some individuals may experience improved sleep quality due to reduced inflammation and more stable blood sugar levels. However, others may experience sleep disturbances due to hunger or difficulty in adjusting to the new eating schedule.

In conclusion, maintaining proper hydration is essential for sleep quality and overall health, as it supports temperature regulation, hormone production, waste removal, and prevents night-time awakenings. Additionally, various popular diets can impact sleep quality differently, with some promoting better sleep and others potentially causing sleep disturbances. Understanding the effects of these diets and making informed dietary choices can help individuals optimise their sleep patterns and support overall well-being.

Conclusion: Embracing the Power of Nutrition for Better Sleep

The impact of nutrition on sleep quality is significant, as the foods we consume directly influence our sleep patterns, bodily functions, and overall well-being. By understanding the role of nutrition in sleep health, individuals can make conscious decisions to adopt healthier eating habits, ultimately supporting restful sleep and promoting a higher quality of life. To summarize, here are some key tips for improving your sleep quality:

1. Focusing on nutrient-dense foods

Incorporating a well-balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals ensures the body receives the vital nutrients required for optimal sleep and overall health.

2. Prioritizing hydration

Maintaining proper hydration throughout the day is crucial for supporting various bodily functions that influence sleep, such as temperature regulation, hormone production, and waste removal.

3. Moderating caffeine and alcohol consumption

Limiting caffeine intake later in the day and consuming alcohol in moderation can help minimize their negative effects on sleep quality.

4. Being mindful of meal timing and portion sizes

Paying attention to meal timing, avoiding heavy meals close to bedtime, and opting for light, sleep- promoting snacks when needed can facilitate restful sleep.

5. Adapting to individual requirements

Acknowledging the unique sleep needs and challenges faced by different populations and adjusting dietary habits accordingly ensures that individuals optimize their sleep patterns based on their specific circumstances.

6. Assessing the impact of popular diets

Understanding the influence of various popular diets on sleep quality allows individuals to make informed decisions about which dietary approach best supports their sleep health and overall well- being.

7. Personalizing your nutrition plan

Monitoring individual responses to specific foods and dietary patterns and adjusting accordingly can enhance sleep quality and overall health.

By embracing the power of nutrition for better sleep, individuals can cultivate a sleep-friendly lifestyle that fosters restorative rest and optimal health. Investing in sleep health through mindful dietary choices can yield profound effects on physical, mental, and emotional well-being, ultimately improving daily performance and quality of life. With a commitment to better nutrition and healthier eating habits, a good night’s sleep is attainable.

Composed by: “Varsha, proficient as a Business Analyst, has an educational foundation in healthcare IT, acquired through a PGDHM from IIHMR Delhi. Her primary interest rests at the intersection of healthcare and technology, with a specific focus on harnessing cutting-edge tech solutions to revolutionize patient care and enhance healthcare systems. Her work areas comprise optimizing healthcare data flow and improving operational efficiency, driving enhanced patient care and system robustness.”

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Innovation Pitches from Global & Indian Companies

InnoHEALTH Magazine — Fri, 16 Nov 2018 08:56:58 +0000

The main concept behind the Innovation Pitches session was to enable innovative companies with the right to advise and linkages. Some of the top experts from Indian health sector listened to the company presentations and shared with them their feedback on how the companies should work on their goto market plan. The companies represented were a mix of Indian and European companies.

The companies who pitched and the expert panel were:
Companies Pitching:
● DocOnline Health India Pvt. Ltd.
● EMPE Diagnostics
● HealthCubed India Private Limited
Expert Panel:
● Adarsh Sharma, Financial Expert
● Sohini Mandal, Lawyer
● Nidhi Gani, Regulatory Expert
● Dr Vidur Mahajan, Industry leader
● Vishal Gandhi, Investment banker
● Dr Ravi Gaur, Industry leader
● Kshitij Chaudhary, Investment facilitator

Ajit Nair, DocOnline Health India Pvt. Ltd presented A Doctor Consultation Platform. Their core product offerings include – Last mile Clinical Delivery Platform/E Clinic Solution. They also enable a Clinical marketplace for their customers. DocOnline Health provides Doctor Consultation via video/audio and chat. Our Product is a secure platform ensuring data privacy. Provide Electronic Health Records for our customers. Doctor Consultations are provided in multiple regional languages. Flexible platform to derive clinical insights and Artificial Intelligence.

Pawan Asalapuram – EMPE Diagnostics presented his EMPE’s indigenous, customized test kits that can provide YES/NO answer in 60 min by developing visual signals and provides reliable clinical information already during the first contact point between the doctor and the patient. Our affordable tests are designed to operate even in resource-limited clinical laboratories, including medical camps.

Sridhar Ramanathan, HealthCubed India Private Limited has enabled better diagnosis for a patient by creating an ecosystem comprising of a multi-parameter point of care device operated with an easy to use the software on a mobile platform. It can screen for Vitals, Non Communicable diseases, and infectious diseases. It can expand the number of tests from 24 today to 65 based on user needs. Data is instantly backed-up in the cloud for further analysis.

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Young Indian Innovators Compete with Best Brains

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How to write a funding proposal?

InnoHEALTH Magazine — Tue, 01 May 2018 10:48:48 +0000

Do you have any innovative idea?
Pots of Money available for innovative projects, but Caution! No can lay hands on them without knack for saleable idea

Dr. Mukherjee holds Ph.D. in Microbiology, Degree in Law, Advance Course in Strategy Management from IIM Kolkata, Management and Leadership course from Business School University of Oxford. He has devised and formulated strategies for mitigating challenges and bridging gaps through impact funding. Before joining Wellcome Trust as Senior Strategic Advisor (India), Dr.Mukherjee was staff scientist at International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB). Dr. Mukherjee manages the R&D for Affordable Healthcare in India, a £30 million initiative of Wellcome Trust in India. The initiative funds translation research leading to affordable healthcare solution in India and beyond.

Parthvee Jain is an engineering graduate with her post-graduation and specialization in Food Processing and Nutraceuticals. Her interest fields include Biotechnology, Healthcare, Food Processing and Nutraceuticals. Connecting European Healthcare innovation leaders with the Indian healthcare system and pioneers, she is working with InnovatioCuris as analytical and result-driven marketing professional having experience impacting organizational performance through expert research, analysis and evaluating market and competitive conditions, current and emerging trends, and industry-specific solutions to ensure optimal position in the marketplace.

It was a crisp winter morning when a motely crowd of innovators assembled quietly in a conference hall of the national capital’s prestigious India International Center to learn craft of presenting their case before government bodies, philanthropists and other agencies for funding.

With a promise to give an encouraging platform to innovators and aspiring Startups, InnovatioCuris had organised the second IC Innovator Club meeting on November 26, 2017.

A medium height simpleton emerged on the scene and occupied center stage of the Sunday morning show, but patient listeners within split of seconds shed off doubts whether spending a precious Sunday morning in such a meet was rewarding or a mere waste.

The club meeting brought some big names of healthcare including PHFI, INMAS (DRDO), Amity University, IIHMR to name a few, under a single roof including experts from investing agencies, Startups, policy makers, academia and many more.

The members quickly envisioned pots of money for their dream projects mainly strategized to fulfill unmet needs of common people and the industry.

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One should avoid the following for a positive outcome:

Putting two different applications at the same time to same funder.
Doubling the funder (two funders for the same proposal).
Diverse and varied application should be avoided, instead thematic calls are better.

Glued to a widescreen where slides were scrolled for thumb rules while applying to such bodies for funding, innovators lent ears to Mission Director who at an ease rolled out drill for a successful applicant.

Batting with a straight blade, he minced no words to articulate the harsh reality that there was no scope to dodge funders to siphon money from them on bogus facts and figures. No cutting of corners; no double play with different funders; no concealment of facts; no new sets of facts and figures for same projects with different bodies; and no lobbying were among many during his opening remarks.

Dr. Shirshendu Mukherjee, Mission Director of Program Management Unit, jointly supported by the Department of Bio Technology, Bio Technology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) –BMGF(BILL & MELINDA GATES) Foundation and Wellcome Trust unveiled points which play crucial role in attracting funds from various bodies.

In life of a researcher or innovator one important pillar for the success of his idea is getting the right funding. Innovation is not only about ideas.It’s about making the ideas happen and sometimes difficult to convert a good idea on to a paper.

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The agenda of IC Innovator Club’s second meeting was to share the views and knowledge on how to write a research or a grant proposal so that the innovator is successful in bringing his innovation to real world by implementing ideas.

Dr. Mukherjee insisted that art of communication is trick of the trade as in the world of tearing hurry ambience and cut-throat competition no one has time to flip through bulky dossiers.

According to Dr Mukherjee, “Winning a grant is how compelling story (of your idea) you tell”. He said writing a grant application is like narrating a story with once upon a time to a happily lived ever after. By this what he meant was, it is important to narrate the beginning, ending and all the important milestones to the funding agency very clearly and in chronological order with a proper flow of events to take place for the innovation to happen.

Dr. Mukherjee beautifully divided the prospective challenges of innovation broadly under three stages: Discovery, Development and Delivery. Major challenges under the discovery stage being to understand the problem, limited market pull and push in non-commercial indications and lack of local research infrastructure. Under the development stage, he told the major challenge faced by an innovator could be the translation of the idea to the product. Adding to it, lack of local development infrastructure, complex IP and regulatory pathway also contribute to the challenges faced during the development stage of an innovation.

Dr Mukherjee also told “One should keep in mind the unmet need of the market and the funding space available for area of interest”. About the dedicated experts and advisors being appointed in the funding agencies, he advised participants to seek advice on the funding space relevance of their proposal through these experts.

According to the expert, few of the challenges that one can expect during his project/work could be regulatory, IP or IT related, business plan development challenges, challenges in developing business exit plan etc.

Dr. Mukherjee encouraged the participants by saying “A successful proposal is 60% science and rest 40% is the foresightedness” that is how accurately down the line one can see and plan.

Sharing about Program Related investments, Dr. Mukherjee made a bold statement which could make an enormous impact in the applicant’s life. He said, “The applicant should also do due diligence on the funder, it is not only the right of a funder to do due diligence on the applicant, but also the applicant should do due diligence on the funder”. He also discussed few points on how one can perform the above said task, like visiting their respective websites, noticing what they have funded in last two years and others.

Best approach for applying a grant is ‘Two funder approach’. Approach is also a crucial factor in determining the progress of the application says Dr. Mukherjee. Benefit of doubt always rests in court of applicant, meaning if one of the reviewers is in favor the application and rest are not then also the applicant would get a chance to defend his application at first.

Further discussing about the ideas and points to be taken care of while drafting the proposal application, views were discussed on how one can write a comprehensive application with a suitable title and an impactful abstract.

Budgeting is very important in every aspect of life and so is the case while writing a grant application. The budget should be exhaustive and self-explanatory says Dr. Mukherjee. One should be realistic in quoting the budget and should avoid any kind of hidden costs or inflation in costing.

Want to write for InnoHEALTH? send us your article at magazine@innovatiocuris.com

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Regulations, Laws & Ethics in Healthcare Delivery in India

InnoHEALTH Magazine — Thu, 04 May 2017 05:54:34 +0000

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Regulations, Laws and Ethics in Healthcare Delivery in India

Dr. Kamal Mahawar is Consultant General and Bariatric Surgeon with Sunderland Royal Hospital in the United Kingdom. He is also an Associate Clinical Lecturer with Newcastle University and editor of renowned scientific journals. His recent book ‘The Ethical Doctor’ published by Harper Collins India examines some of the serious issues affecting Indian healthcare.

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Any detailed analysis of the current state of Indian healthcare can be confusing. The decades of under-investment and lack of systematic planning has resulted in widespread chaos, degeneration of values, skewed distribution of resources, and a sense of helplessness on the part of both the state and the population. It is sadly true that doctors have systematically attempted to benefit from the failure of the policy and the regulation rather than seeking to correct it and their leaders have been busy protecting their own positions and interests rather than that of the patients they are meant to serve. Though the situation seems impossible, there is still hope. A series of determined initiatives can fix the problem.

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Indian society is going through a catharsis. In an increasingly interactive but ever more disintegrated world, Indians are finally finding both the confidence and the desire to transform their own society. A country of 1.3 billion people is no longer prepared to accept being an “also ran”. In this process of churning, undeniably, there will be much pain but from this one hopes, will emerge an India – confident, strong, and sure.

There is a lot wrong with contemporary Indian society – it’s thinking, it’s structure, it’s systems but we still have a chance. Each one of us alive today will not be here in say just less than 100 years time. Almost every single house in the country will become inhabitable in not too distant a future, and our cities will almost completely have to be rebuilt. We just need to ensure that the “new” that replaces the “old” is robust and before you know India would be transformed. I sincerely believe that with appropriate corrective action, we can resurrect almost every aspect of the Indian society – yes it’s thinking, the structures, and even the systems.

This corrective action, however, will only become possible if we come out of our current situation where failure has led to arrogance rather than introspection. We will have to start by admitting freely and openly what is wrong with our society and then engage in a collective discourse to fix it. We need to raise both the level and the intellectual quality of our public discussion and move forward slowly – a step at a time – but decisively.

Human Resources

Healthcare industry is heavily dependent upon human resources. You can’t look after patient without doctors, nurses, technicians, etc. and yet little thinking has gone into ensuring an adequate work-force for the future that we can retain to work in the country. The current situation is that we are creating doctors and nurses but without the adequate hospitals and clinics for them to work in. The government keeps saying doctors and nurses don’t want to work in rural India but without understanding that doctors and nurses need adequate facilities, diagnostics, and other supporting services to deliver healthcare. Doctors and nurses need decent houses, schools for their children and facilities for a productive and entertaining social life. Given the fact that this is unlikely to change anytime soon in rural India, we will need to provide incentives for people to work in the villages – the same sort of thing that can force a doctor or a nurse to go and work in a small town in Saudi Arabia can also take them to a village in their own country. Our planners simply need to wake up to this reality. If a doctor or a nurse sees that he’ll save for four years by working for a year in a village, he is likely to drag himself there and also ensure he works hard to keep his patients and employers happy. The current situation where nobody wants the job in the first place does not leave the government with any levers when those in it don’t perform or simply don’t turn up! Adequate salary and tax incentives can go a long way in helping retain our homegrown talent and will ultimately pay back for itself by ensuring a healthier society. Health, after all it used to be said, is wealth.

The Role of the Government

In modern societies, we have left it to the governments to set the appropriate structures upon which we can all build our individual lives. If the structure is robust, our lives can indeed be very fulfilling but if it is not, the whole system can degenerate into chaos. The policy has failed Indian healthcare at every step and exploited by the very people entrusted to protect and develop it. Doctors continue to be educated and trained in a system that rarely keeps pace with the changing needs of the patients and the scientific developments. Underfunded medical colleges continue to treat the impoverished in shabbiest of the conditions and produce little in the name of research and scientific

output. They struggle to recruit world-class faculty while those who take up these jobs find they can neither deliver world-class care nor engage in academics or research because of the lack of funding and bureaucratic controls. Our corporates happily donate millions of dollars to foreign institutes as they have well-established mechanisms for publicity that our institutions have failed to establish. And while our educational institutions and hospitals are crumbling due to lack of resources, our temples are one of the wealthiest in the world. There is much for us all to reflect over in the contemporary Indian society.

The Profession

At the same time, it cannot be denied that healthcare is fundamentally the doctors’ responsibility in any society. If any of the other stakeholders’ are falling short, it is up to us to make noise and ensure we can deliver quality healthcare to the people. However, Indian healthcare is remarkably short in this area too. A large number of doctors, let down by the system, have become so cynical that greed and self-aggrandisement have taken over empathy and ethics. The profession has got infested with one corrupt practice after the other and the doctors have simply chosen to look the other way. Yet, they complained bitterly when medical services were brought under the purview of the consumer courts. I agree that involving courts was not the right thing to do but what options did the doctors leave for the patients when the regulator, the Medical Council of India (comprising entirely of doctors), does not have an effective patient complaint cell or even a register of all qualified doctors. It is true that the desire of the medical profession in India to protect each other is much stronger than their will to protect patients. And while the rot was setting in, the so-called leaders of the profession were building their own hospitals and nursing home. Isn’t it amazing that not a single leader from the profession has spoken against the widespread lack of healthcare provision in the country for the poor or the ethical abyss that the profession has sunk into? It is sadly true that doctors have systematically attempted to benefit from the failure of the policy and the regulation rather than seeking to correct it and their leaders have been busy protecting their own positions and interests rather than that of the patients they are meant to serve. If you don’t believe me, just think how many of hundreds of medical societies in the country come out with anything useful for the people. Where is the desire to develop the local evidence base to guide local care? Where are the local guidelines for common clinical conditions that can be used by doctors and nurses working in remote towns and villages? Despite this, hundreds of conferences are organised annually at considerable expense and much fanfare where the emphasis is on reciprocating lectures and chairmanship rather than any real scientific data sharing. There will no doubt be islands of excellence in this vast sea of greed and corruption but I hope I have been able to give you a general idea of the state of the affairs. Many of these problems are not simply confined to India either.

The Private Sector

The private sector rose to fill in the vacuum left by the state and it is a fact that without private healthcare, large sections of our communities will have nowhere to go. But once again, the private sector has been allowed to mushroom without any attempt to match demand to supply. This has led to a situation where they are killing and pulling each other down into a moral quagmire with over competition in urban areas while vast sections of rural parts of the country are left un-served. Private nursing homes, diagnostic facilities, and hospitals are functioning without a regulatory overseeing mechanism and poor patients have no alternative, as the state hospitals are not fit for human treatment.

Though the situation seems impossible, there is still hope. A series of determined initiatives can fix the problem. We need reform across the board. We need to reform our state primary health care provisions, our medical colleges and how we fund them, medical education and postgraduate training, continued medical education, regulation of the profession and the hospitals, mechanisms for patients to voice complaints, planning to distribute provisions evenly, and systems for accountability from all. And even if we did all this, there will be yet more left to do.

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