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Published on: Nov 13, 2020
1 minute read
By: Dr Rajan ( Medical Second Opinion Cell)

Using The Cellular Handshake Against The Virus

Using the cellular handshake against the virus

In early November an interesting study was published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, describing the treatment of a severe COVID-19 patient with human recombinant soluble angiotensin-converting enzyme-2. By using the treatment, it was possible to see the disappearance of the virus swiftly from the patient's serum, nose, and lungs, as well as a reduction in the patients’ inflammatory markers. How was this achieved? And why is this so intriguing.

When we look at treating viruses, there are several strategies at work. You can prevent its spread by the use of social distancing or masks, you can use medications that prevent its replication (such as Tamiflu). Or you can stop the virus from entering the cells, the first step in viral replication.

SARS-CoV-2 appears to enter human cells through the ACE2 receptor. ACE2 is a protein in the cell membrane found across the human body, especially the lungs, heart, kidney and small intestine. It function is related to the Renin-Angiotensin System, a mechanism by which the kidneys control your blood pressure.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme converts angiotensin 1 to angiotensin 2, a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict. ACE 2 instead converts it to a protein that causes dilation of blood vessels. This likely protects these critical organs and ensure they receive sufficient blood to perform their tasks. ACE2 is being investigated as a possible target for blood pressure medications.

The study used a genetically modified soluble form of ACE2 that mimics the protein found on human cell membranes. By increasing its availability in the blood, the SARS-CoV-2 virus binds to this protein, resulting in its inactivation, rather than entering lung cells and causing lung injury. Lab studies have shown that it can reduce viral growth by as much as 1000 to 5000 times, and phase 1 studies show it to be safe to use in people.

The actual described case was in a 45-year-old woman, hospitalized with COVID, suffering from severe shortness of breath, cough and fatigue. She was first treated with hydroxychloroquine and anticoagulants, but this proved ineffective, and the virus was causing increasing damage to her lungs. Nine days after her symptoms started, she received the ACE2 treatment for a week, with no side effects. This resulted in an increase in ACE2 activity (seen from her blood results), but also a marked decrease in multiple inflammatory markers associated with COVID-19, as well as a sharp decrease in COVID 19 numbers. Indeed, the viral load dropped from 32,000 per mL to just 270 per mL two days after treatment started. She was also able to produce antibodies against the virus, so this did not impair her from getting immunity.

It is certainly a very interesting case, though questions remain on how feasible it would be (as well as how expensive) to manufacture large quantities of this protein receptor for treatment use, as well as how it fairs in clinical trials.

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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

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