India celebrates its 79th Independence Day on August 15, 2025. A day to honour our countless freedom fighters whose courage and sacrifices gave us an independent and sovereign nation after almost 8 decades of British rule, it begins with the Prime Minister hoisting the national flag at the Red Fort and highlighting the country's achievements. This year, the government has also declared the theme for the 79th Independence Day as ‘Naya Bharat’. It aims to set the stage for a new India with renewed national focus on progress and transformation. Vibrant parades, cultural performances, patriotic programs, and the sight of the tricolour fluttering in the wind along with the sound of the national anthem; everything bring a spirit of unity and pride together.


79th Independence Day And Its Importance

Independence Day is not only a day of remembrance but also a time to reflect on our responsibilities as citizens. As India continues to grow on the global stage, we also should focus on the most important element of life, which is health. Prioritizing health is not a luxury; it is essential for maintaining true independence, both physically and mentally. Ignoring health today could mean serious consequences tomorrow. The world at present is battling with five chronic conditions, namely diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, thyroid disorders, and obesity. Alarmingly common modern lifestyles, marked by poor dietary choices, sedentary habits, stress, and lack of sleep, have significantly contributed to their rise. Increased consumption of processed foods and sugary beverages, combined with reduced physical activity, has created the perfect environment for these ailments to thrive. Diabetes and obesity often go hand in hand. Hypertension and heart disease are closely linked, too, both silently damaging vital organs before symptoms even appear. Thyroid issues, especially hypothyroidism, are on the rise due to stress, hormonal imbalances, and environmental factors, often affecting metabolism and overall energy levels. These conditions not only impact quality of life but also increase the risk of severe complications like stroke, kidney failure, and depression. Early detection, lifestyle changes, and regular health checkups are key to managing and even preventing these diseases.

Unfortunately, even as the country progresses at various levels, we are still regressing as a healthy nation. India is now the diabetes capital of the world, while chronic conditions like hypertension, thyroid, and obesity have become the norm, even among the youth.

The numbers released by the World Health Organization about the prevalence of chronic conditions in India are quite appalling. It paints a gloomy picture, stating that about 69.2 million people in India are living with diabetes and nearly 98.2 million may be affected by type 2 diabetes by 2030. There is a menacing growth of cancer and hypertension among young people. Almost 25% of Indian families have one heart patient, and India has the highest number of heart attacks in the world. Real freedom can happen only when we become a disease-free nation. On this Independence Day, let’s ask for absolute liberty from diseases. It’s time to embrace a healthy lifestyle, diet. And if you are diagnosed with any chronic condition, don’t lose hope. Many ailments are easily manageable with diet, workout, and proper focus on healthy living. Read on to know how to lead a fuss-free, independent, and healthy life.

Diabetes

If you were diagnosed with diabetes, don’t lose hope. Though a common chronic condition, diabetes can be managed with a few effective measures. If your family has a history of diabetes, modifying your lifestyle could be a great step towards preventing high levels of blood sugar. It is even more important to prevent diabetes if you are at high risk, such as being overweight, at hereditary risk, or having been diagnosed with prediabetes. It is as simple as eating a more healthful and balanced regimen, including plenty of fibre, whole grains, vegetables, proteins, and avoiding simple carbs. Get involved in physical activity like jogging, cycling, walking, which can lower blood sugar, boost insulin sensitivity, which keeps your sugar under control. Regular monitoring and health checkups can also be helpful to reverse this condition.

Hypertension

Hypertension can be successfully brought under control with a healthy lifestyle, and you may avoid, delay, or reduce the need for medication. Studies reveal that 10% of weight loss can remarkably control high blood pressure, so set goals to shed those extra kilos. Eat a healthy diet abundant in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and low-fat dairy products, and cut down on saturated fat and processed foods. Limit sodium intake to less than 1500mg/day. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake improves overall health.

Heart Disease

Healthy strategies to prevent heart disease are quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco. The harmful chemicals can narrow blood vessels and lead to a heart attack. Exercise regularly, eat a heart-healthy diet rich in superfoods like wholegrains, fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and lean protein. Avoid saturated fats, trans fats, and red meat. Get a sound sleep as sleep deprivation can harm your health, which elevates the risk of heart disease, obesity, and high blood pressure. Beat stress with relaxation exercises, yoga, or meditation to promote your heart health.

Thyroid

The thyroid, known as your metabolic master, regulates every single cell in the body. Healthy choices of living can prevent, slow down, or stop the progression of thyroid disease. Quit smoking to protect the thyroid gland from the harmful toxins. Regular workouts can boost metabolism and help in losing weight, which can improve the functioning of thyroid hormone function. Eat a healthy diet rich in whole grains, legumes, fruit, and vegetables, and stay away from cruciferous veggies and soy products to improve the functioning of the thyroid gland.

Obesity

Obesity is one of the most common health issues affecting the quality of life and is one of the contributing factors for the development of chronic diseases. Simple steps to prevent weight gain are to go for regular workouts - you need to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workout per week. Emphasis on low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and avoiding simple carbs, sugars, and saturated fat. Be consistent and stick to your healthy weight loss plan even during weekends, holidays, or long vacations to reach your health goal.

On 79th Independence Day, once again, let us commit ourselves to building a healthier nation.

Netmeds.com wishes all its customers a very Happy Independence Day

Author Profile: Kalyani Krishna

Kalyani Krishna is a seasoned media professional with dual degrees in Commerce and Law, backed by over 15 years of experience in the fast-paced world of mainstream media. Her career journey has seen her excel in key roles such as Senior Correspondent and Chief Sub Editor at Deccan Chronicle, Special Correspondent - South for People Magazine, and Online Editor for the Indian Express. Beyond these roles, Kalyani has contributed to a variety of in-house magazines, eBooks, and interviews, demonstrating her versatility across multiple platforms.

Kalyani's true passion lies in the health sector, where she combines her knack for meticulous research with her talent for creating content that is both factual and engaging. Her expertise extends to strategizing content for optimal search engine results, keeping pace with ever-evolving SEO trends, and identifying high-impact keywords. She is adept at driving conversions while ensuring that every piece of content is grammatically flawless and resonates with its intended audience