Pregnancy is a time when advice flows freely—from well-meaning relatives, friends, and even strangers online. While some guidance is helpful, much of it is outdated, misleading, or simply a myth. According to experts, clinging to these myths can sometimes interfere with healthy pregnancy habits.

Dr. Renu Malik, Director at Malik Radix Healthcare, shares evidence-based insights to separate fact from fiction. Here’s what expectant mothers really need to know about pregnancy nutrition.

Myth 1: “Eating for Two” Means Double the Food

The idea that pregnancy requires eating for two is probably the most famous—and misleading—myth.

What experts say:
Dr. Malik points out that during the first trimester, most women don’t need extra calories. During the second trimester, an additional 340–350 calories per day is usually sufficient, rising to about 450 calories in the third trimester.

Practical advice: Focus on nutrient-dense foods rather than doubling portions. Include:

• Leafy greens
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins
• Legumes
• Healthy fats

Myth 2: Avoid All Seafood

Many women skip seafood entirely due to fears of mercury.

Reality check: Not all fish are dangerous. Low-mercury options like salmon, sardines, shrimp, canned light tuna, and catfish are safe and beneficial for fetal brain development. High-mercury fish such as swordfish and king mackerel should be avoided.

Dr. Malik emphasizes: “Seafood is not the enemy—mercury is. Two to three servings of low-mercury fish per week are recommended.”

Myth 3: You Must Quit Caffeine Completely

Complete avoidance of caffeine is unnecessary for most pregnancies.

Guidelines:

• Up to 200 mg per day (about 1–2 cups of coffee) is considered safe.
• Remember caffeine is also present in tea, chocolate, soft drinks, and some energy drinks.

Myth 4: Avoid Nuts to Prevent Allergies

Some believe that avoiding peanuts and nuts reduces the risk of childhood allergies.

Fact: No evidence supports this. In fact, nuts provide excellent protein and healthy fats, important for maternal nutrition. Unless the mother has a personal allergy, there’s no reason to eliminate them.

Myth 5: Ghee or Spicy Food Can Ease Labour

Many traditional beliefs claim ghee “lubricates the birth canal” or spicy food induces labour.

Scientific reality:

• Ghee is a calorie-dense saturated fat—no effect on labour.
• Spicy food may cause heartburn but does not trigger contractions.

Myth 6: Diet Can Influence Baby’s Skin or Hair

Pregnancy folklore is full of claims—from saffron milk for fair skin to coconut water for thick hair.

Expert insight: Genetics, not diet, determine your baby’s appearance. No food can change skin tone, hair texture, or eye color.

What food can do: Support healthy growth, brain development, and maternal wellbeing.

Key Takeaways

Much of the confusion around pregnancy nutrition comes from generational advice. Evidence shows that the healthiest approach is straightforward:

• Balanced, diverse diet: Emphasize nutrient-rich foods rather than following food myths.
• Moderate calorie intake: Don’t overeat “for two.”
• Safe consumption: Include low-mercury fish, moderate caffeine, and nuts unless allergic.
• Consult your doctor: Before making significant changes or avoiding certain foods.

By letting go of outdated myths, pregnant women can focus on what truly matters: nutrition that supports their health and the baby’s development.

Feeling feverish and acidic at the same time? Palaash Muchhal’s case shows why you shouldn’t ignore it

The recent hospitalisation of Palaash Muchhal — cricketer, music composer, and fiancé of Smriti Mandhana — after a viral infection combined with severe acidity has drawn attention to a commonly overlooked issue: digestive problems intensifying during fevers. Though he is stable now, his case highlights how quickly routine infections can escalate when gut symptoms are ignored.

For most people, viral illnesses come with familiar complaints like fever, body ache, or a runny nose. But when the digestive system gets affected, the illness can feel significantly more exhausting. Doctors note that acidity and reflux often worsen during infections due to dehydration, stress on the body, and disrupted eating patterns. Reduced food intake and fluid loss can make the stomach more acidic, aggravating discomfort.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

• Persistent high fever not responding to medication
• Extreme fatigue or weakness
• Burning sensation in the chest (acid reflux)
• Severe acidity or stomach pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Signs of dehydration such as dry lips, dizziness, or reduced urination
• Ongoing discomfort despite rest

If these symptoms continue for more than 24–48 hours, or if the pain feels unusually intense — as happened in Palaash’s case — medical attention is essential.

Why Infections Worsen Acidity

Viral infections can trigger inflammation throughout the body, including the gastrointestinal tract. When combined with irregular meals, dehydration, and an overworked immune system, the stomach produces excess acid. This results in acidity, heartburn, and indigestion.

How to Protect Yourself

Health experts recommend simple steps to prevent complications:

• Stay well-hydrated
• Eat light, non-spicy meals
• Avoid long gaps between meals
• Rest sufficiently and avoid physical exertion

Palaash Muchhal’s situation is a timely reminder: never ignore early warning signs from your body. Even mild viral infections can strain your system, especially when accompanied by digestive issues.Feeling feverish and acidic at the same time? Palaash Muchhal’s case shows why you shouldn’t ignore it

The recent hospitalisation of Palaash Muchhal — cricketer, music composer, and fiancé of Smriti Mandhana — after a viral infection combined with severe acidity has drawn attention to a commonly overlooked issue: digestive problems intensifying during fevers. Though he is stable now, his case highlights how quickly routine infections can escalate when gut symptoms are ignored.

For most people, viral illnesses come with familiar complaints like fever, body ache, or a runny nose. But when the digestive system gets affected, the illness can feel significantly more exhausting. Doctors note that acidity and reflux often worsen during infections due to dehydration, stress on the body, and disrupted eating patterns. Reduced food intake and fluid loss can make the stomach more acidic, aggravating discomfort.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

• Persistent high fever not responding to medication
• Extreme fatigue or weakness
• Burning sensation in the chest (acid reflux)
• Severe acidity or stomach pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Signs of dehydration such as dry lips, dizziness, or reduced urination
• Ongoing discomfort despite rest

If these symptoms continue for more than 24–48 hours, or if the pain feels unusually intense — as happened in Palaash’s case — medical attention is essential.

Why Infections Worsen Acidity

Viral infections can trigger inflammation throughout the body, including the gastrointestinal tract. When combined with irregular meals, dehydration, and an overworked immune system, the stomach produces excess acid. This results in acidity, heartburn, and indigestion.

How to Protect Yourself

Health experts recommend simple steps to prevent complications:

• Stay well-hydrated
• Eat light, non-spicy meals
• Avoid long gaps between meals
• Rest sufficiently and avoid physical exertion

Palaash Muchhal’s situation is a timely reminder: never ignore early warning signs from your body. Even mild viral infections can strain your system, especially when accompanied by digestive issues.Feeling feverish and acidic at the same time? Palaash Muchhal’s case shows why you shouldn’t ignore it

The recent hospitalisation of Palaash Muchhal — cricketer, music composer, and fiancé of Smriti Mandhana — after a viral infection combined with severe acidity has drawn attention to a commonly overlooked issue: digestive problems intensifying during fevers. Though he is stable now, his case highlights how quickly routine infections can escalate when gut symptoms are ignored.

For most people, viral illnesses come with familiar complaints like fever, body ache, or a runny nose. But when the digestive system gets affected, the illness can feel significantly more exhausting. Doctors note that acidity and reflux often worsen during infections due to dehydration, stress on the body, and disrupted eating patterns. Reduced food intake and fluid loss can make the stomach more acidic, aggravating discomfort.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

• Persistent high fever not responding to medication
• Extreme fatigue or weakness
• Burning sensation in the chest (acid reflux)
• Severe acidity or stomach pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Signs of dehydration such as dry lips, dizziness, or reduced urination
• Ongoing discomfort despite rest

If these symptoms continue for more than 24–48 hours, or if the pain feels unusually intense — as happened in Palaash’s case — medical attention is essential.

Why Infections Worsen Acidity

Viral infections can trigger inflammation throughout the body, including the gastrointestinal tract. When combined with irregular meals, dehydration, and an overworked immune system, the stomach produces excess acid. This results in acidity, heartburn, and indigestion.

How to Protect Yourself

Health experts recommend simple steps to prevent complications:

• Stay well-hydrated
• Eat light, non-spicy meals
• Avoid long gaps between meals
• Rest sufficiently and avoid physical exertion

Palaash Muchhal’s situation is a timely reminder: never ignore early warning signs from your body. Even mild viral infections can strain your system, especially when accompanied by digestive issues.

A new report has dismissed speculation that Apple CEO Tim Cook is preparing to step down in 2026. While Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering John Ternus remains a strong contender for the role in the future, Cook is expected to continue steering Apple for several more years.

New Delhi:
Recent rumours suggested that Tim Cook would step away from his role as Apple CEO next year, sparking debates about potential successors and the company’s future leadership. Some reports even claimed Apple had already identified a replacement.

However, a new Bloomberg report firmly rejects these claims, stating that Cook has no plans to leave his position at the world’s most valuable technology company anytime soon.

Cook, who turned 65 this month, has served as CEO since 2011, taking over after the passing of Steve Jobs. During his tenure, he has expanded Apple’s global presence, introduced new product lines and services, and cemented the company’s status as a trillion-dollar leader in the tech industry.

Rumours of a 2026 Exit Are Unfounded

Earlier this month, the Financial Times reported that John Ternus—Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering—could step into the CEO role as early as mid-2026. The report fueled intense discussion across the tech world, prompting suggestions that a major leadership shift might be underway at Apple.

Bloomberg, however, has now clarified that there is no indication Cook is preparing for an imminent retirement. Within Apple, the rumours are viewed as speculative and inaccurate. According to the publication, a sudden leadership transition would come as a “shock.”

John Ternus Still Seen as a Strong Future Successor

While a 2026 handover appears unlikely, industry watchers still regard John Ternus as a leading candidate to eventually succeed Cook. As the youngest member of Apple’s executive team, Ternus has overseen the development of several key hardware products, including recent generations of the iPhone, iPad, and AirPods.

Known for his technical expertise and respected leadership, Ternus remains a strong long-term contender—just not in the immediate future, according to the latest report.

Cook Expected to Stay Involved Even After Stepping Down

Even when Cook eventually retires as CEO, he is expected to continue contributing to the company, likely as chairman. After more than a decade of stable leadership and consistent growth, Cook remains central to Apple’s long-term strategy.

For now, the message is clear: Tim Cook isn’t going anywhere, and no major leadership changes are expected in the near future—unless something unforeseen occurs.