• Published on: Aug 03, 2021
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Covid Expert Online

Covid Delta Variant: Virus Is Changing And We Need To Change Too!

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Delta Variant: Virus is changing and we need to change too!

The entire world is changing its overall strategy on the coronavirus pandemic this week. Masks are back, vaccine mandates are looming, and officials have sounded more worried than they have in months. Employees must wear a mask throughout the day at work while also keeping distance from others and submitting to a virus test once per week for safety reasons driving these changes as two factors: The large number who remain unvaccinated due to fears about vaccines' health effects combined with Delta variant's rapid spread across Europe over recent weeks which forces authorities around the world into immediate action against disease threat."

The Delta variant, originally known as B.1-617.2 has been around since last year but in recent months it's become the fastest spreading virus of all time according to many experts and scientists who are researching this issue more now than ever before. The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have also said that COVID-19 cases have increased over 300% nationally from June 19th to July 23rd along with parallel increases in hospitalizations and deaths are driven by the highly transmissible B: 1 617 2 delta variant which is one of a few reasons why they're so concerned about this new strain because there doesn't seem like any way we can stop or cure it yet if at all.

The Delta variant, originally known as B.1.617.2, has been around since last year but in recent months it's become speedily dominant with an 80% share of newly diagnosed cases across the US according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC says there have also been "parallel increases" in hospitalizations and deaths which are being driven by this new highly transmissible strain - COVID-19 or what is now better described as the Delta infection

Let's understand what the Delta variant is: a virus that has been around since late last year but in recent months it has become speedily dominant in many countries. It accounts for more than 80% of newly diagnosed cases.

The Delta variant is more transmissible in some studies, but not all. One CDC document indicates the Delta variant to be as contagious as chickenpox with each infected person infecting a few others. This difficult number to check because it requires much testing which has yet been done

The Delta variant is more transmissible than traditional coronavirus, but we don't know by how much. The CDC estimates that the new virus might be about 60-200% as contagious as chickenpox with each infected person infecting eight or nine others on average while a typical case of common cold only has an infection rate of two other people per affected individual. One paragraph from one CDC document indicates that this number could even be higher and since it's difficult to determine exact statistics without comprehensive testing, there are multiple possible outcomes for these estimations.

In a recent presentation, the CDC has noted that vaccines prevent more than 90% of severe diseases but may be less effective at preventing infection or transmission. However, if you're vaccinated with one of two currently approved COVID-19 mRNA vaccine brands (Pfizer and Moderna), then evidence suggests they are highly effective against hospitalization and death for various strains such as Alpha (B.1.1.7) Beta (B 1/351), Gamma( P 1 ), Delta( B/617).

 The presentation notes that vaccines are less effective at preventing infection or transmission and sometimes can lead to breakthrough outbreaks in communities despite vaccination. To help combat these effects, the site also noted Moderna's mRNA COVID-19 vaccine is highly effective for many strains of measles including Alpha (B.1.1), Beta (B2) Gamma (P), Delta B(2).

A recent study has shown that the effectiveness of vaccines against certain variants may be lower than previously anticipated. The CDC is urging for ongoing monitoring to ensure appropriate vaccination strategies are developed and implemented with these new findings in mind.

Data suggest that the vaccine is less effective against confirmed infection and symptomatic disease caused by variants of influenza. Ongoing monitoring should be done to ensure that vaccines are still as effective in fighting off Delta variant though lab tests indicate immune response generated should cover it.

Delta has a unique set of mutations that may allow it to evade the human immune system and be more efficient in infecting cells. Delta's changes are limited to its receptor-binding domain, which allows for tight connections with the host cell while also helping this virus escape detection by hiding from our body's natural defenses like antibodies. One change is believed to help make these bonds tighter--making us sicker faster!

The delta virus has at least three mutations on a structure that is called the receptor-binding domain--the part of the disease-causing agent responsible for docking into human cells it infects. It may help evade detection by our immune system, and one mutation, in particular, could make it bind more tightly to infected cells.

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Switch Soda with Detox Water: A Simple Step Toward Better Metabolic Health

Switch Soda with Detox Water: A Simple Step Toward Better Metabolic Health

Soda and sugary beverages have become a major contributor to India’s rising burden of metabolic diseases. According to NFHS-5 and ICMR data, high intake of sugary drinks significantly increases the risk of obesity, high blood sugar, fatty liver disease and heart problems. Replacing these drinks with detox water is one of the easiest and most sustainable lifestyle changes for preventive health.

Detox water is not a medical treatment-it is a healthy hydration alternative that supports the body’s natural processes. SecondMedic encourages simple, evidence-based swaps like this to help individuals improve daily habits without drastic diets.

 

Why Soda Is a Major Health Concern in India

1. Extremely high sugar content

A single can of soda contains:

  • 8-10 teaspoons of sugar

  • Over 140 empty calories
     

This spikes glucose levels and increases insulin resistance.

2. Artificial additives

Flavours, colours and preservatives strain the liver and may worsen inflammation.

3. Link to chronic diseases

ICMR and Lancet studies show soda consumption increases risk of:

  • Type 2 diabetes

  • Hypertension

  • Weight gain

  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
     

4. Poor hydration

Soda does not hydrate the body. Caffeine and sugar can actually increase dehydration.

 

Benefits of Switching to Detox Water

Detox water provides hydration and additional wellness support through natural ingredients.

• Improved metabolism

Ingredients like lemon, ginger and cinnamon support metabolic balance.

• Better digestion

Mint and ginger soothe the digestive system.

• Stable blood sugar

Sugar-free detox blends prevent rapid glucose spikes.

• Enhanced hydration

Water absorption improves when infused with electrolytes and antioxidants.

• Reduced cravings

Replacing soda breaks dependence on sugar.

• Skin health improvement

Hydration + antioxidants help reduce dullness and inflammation.

 

Popular Detox Water Ingredients and Their Benefits

Lemon

Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helps improve digestion and immunity.

Mint

Reduces bloating and supports gut comfort.

Cucumber

Hydrates deeply and reduces water retention.

Cinnamon

Known for supporting stable blood sugar.

Ginger

Anti-inflammatory and excellent for digestion.

Apple slices

Add natural sweetness without added sugar.

Berries

High in antioxidants; good for heart health.

 

Easy Detox Water Recipes

1. Lemon + Ginger Detox

Supports metabolic health and digestion.

2. Cucumber + Mint Hydration Blend

Great for daily hydration and cooling.

3. Apple + Cinnamon Water

Helps stabilise glucose naturally.

4. Mixed Berry Infused Water

Boosts antioxidant levels for skin and heart health.

5. Turmeric + Lemon Detox

Mild anti-inflammatory properties.

 

How Detox Water Helps Reduce Soda Dependence

1. Replaces sweetness gradually

Natural fruit flavours reduce the urge for sugary beverages.

2. Keeps you full

Hydration decreases cravings, especially in the evening.

3. Offers variety

Different combinations keep the habit interesting.

4. Improves energy

Consistent hydration reduces fatigue and brain fog.

 

The Science Behind Hydration and Metabolic Health

According to WHO and NITI Aayog health reports:

  • Hydration improves nutrient transport

  • Helps maintain blood pressure

  • Aids liver detoxification

  • Supports kidney function
     

Soda disrupts these processes, while detox water supports them.

 

How SecondMedic Helps You Transition from Soda to Healthy Hydration

• AI Health Guide

Identifies sugar consumption patterns and suggests healthier beverage alternatives.

• Dietitian support

Provides personalised hydration plans for metabolic health.

• Preventive care tracking

Monitors progress for weight, energy and blood sugar.

• Health education

SecondMedic guides families, teenagers and adults on sustainable lifestyle swaps.

 

Tips to Make the Switch Successfully

1. Start gradually

Replace one soda per day with detox water.

2. Add natural flavour

Use citrus or herbs to enhance taste.

3. Keep it accessible

Carry a bottle to avoid impulse soda purchases.

4. Choose chilled detox water

Cold drinks create a similar refreshing experience.

5. Track your progress

Energy and digestion improve noticeably within 2-3 weeks.

 

Conclusion

Switching soda with detox water is a small step with big preventive health benefits. It reduces sugar intake, supports metabolic wellness, improves hydration and strengthens long-term health. With personalized recommendations from SecondMedic, this transition becomes easy, enjoyable and effective.

 

References

• ICMR - Sugar Consumption & Metabolic Health Report
• NFHS-5 - Obesity, Diet and Lifestyle Indicators
• NITI Aayog - Preventive Health & Hydration Behaviour Study
• WHO - Health Effects of Sugary Drinks
• Lancet - Soda Consumption & Disease Burden India
• Statista - Beverage Consumption Trends in India
• EY-FICCI - Lifestyle Behaviour & Preventive Health Report

See all

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