Advisement Form - Exercise Science (Comprehensive: Fill & Download for Free

Answering to : What are the best fat burning exercises and diet plan?Exercises :Any form of routine which increases your heart rate will work for burning those fatty layers. If you follow a particular sport/fitness routine, you should try and find out in-sync exercises with that routine to maintain your body fat.For beginners, I am jotting down some exercises you may choose from. You can learn their techniques by Googling them, or searching for their YouTube videos.HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)This particular routine is by far the best one, to my knowledge and experience, for endurance building and burning fat.What you do in this, is you first sprint for 30 secs which means run as fast as you can, then immediately, jog for next 30 secs. This will conclude 1 set. You need to do 12 sets. That means total 6 min of sprint and 6 min of jog, divided in 12 parts.You may initially keep the bar low, aiming for 15 secs a round and 6 sets a day. Aim to increase your level by each passing day to mark progress.Core Strength exercisesThe second way I would suggest for everyone is by working on your core. When you workout your core, you not only develop your entire body, with increase in your strength, but also burn a lot of calories as for the amount of effort involved in working your core.For any good core strength workout, you only need 3 primary exercises : bench-press, dead-lift, squats. You can incorporate these 3 in any way you feel good in. For start, you can have 4 working sets of all three exercises, 3 days in a week. So you would be working out on your core every alternate day.The point to note here is, that you need to focus on form and weights a lot while doing these exercises. You are advised to take help for the first few times. You can start with a weight you can do 8 reps with, but with which you cannot do 9 reps easily (finding that sweet weight spot). Then from there on, you can decrease the reps and keep increasing the weight, while maintaining correct form. This will help your body put on good muscle, will burn a lot of calories and also help you gain strength.PlankThis is another exercise which is very effective in building stronger abdomen and burning calories. You can google the technique, it’s fairly simple. Try and incorporate as many sets of 2 min each as you can.Regularity of routineWhoever said that fat can be burnt only in the gym was wrong. All you need to do is keep your body under some sort of engaging physical routine which will enable your body to test it’s limit on a periodic level. This includes any kind of sports, strength building activities that you might do.Diet (& everything else):This is more comprehensive to be covered in this box. However, it should give you a fair idea.The first thing you need to do is calculate your BMI index. Many leading gym brands or local hospitals have the facility of giving this information about your body. This will tell you exactly where your body stand today. How much of it is muscles, how much is fat, etc. Also find out if you have any food allergies.Next, you need to chart out your fitness goal. Remember, you should never start a race without knowing where to stop and declare finish. So, set a goal on fat percentage, muscle percentage, weight, etc.Now depending on your fitness goals, will your diet be decided. Again, I am jotting down points to note for beginners below. The ones training for some specific competitive target, kindly look out for additional dietary requirements that you might have, based on your sport.When you eat more and burn less (calories), your body stores fat.Now to burn fat, you need to eat less and burn more calories.Simple rule, no rocket science. First things first, get a device which can measure your calorie intake. There are a number of apps available on your smart phone, which enable you to calculate the number of calories each food item has. This was, you can chart out and limit the number of calories you put in your body.The same goes for your workout as well. I recommend this especially for beginners : get a fitness watch.What these watches do is count the number of calories you have burnt in your workout, so you can keep a tab on how much you consumed and burnt in that day.Next, it also helps you monitor your heart rate. Now fat burning has to do with spiking the heart rate. So with this, you can keep a tab on which all exercises spike your heart rate the most, in order to plan your optimum workout routine for maximum results in minimum time.The quality matters.You have to actively decide to quit the desire of satisfying your taste buds. Some people live to eat, you will need to eat to live. This means putting inside your body only the things it needs. This will mean no junks, no sugar, no alcohol, no bakery items, no ice creams. You need to regulate your diet in such a fashion, that it constitutes upto entirely of things that are absolutely essential to your body, not to your taste buds.Many people stop eating, or start eating tiny proportions of food to decrease their weight. This will do you more harm than good. Hence, plan your diet and eat it right.The water contentWhile professional bodybuilders need to loose water from their body to get shredded look, the case is not like that with people trying to get in shape.You can constitute a daytime meal entirely of fruits and salads. You also should increase your water intake, according to your age.Hope these points help. :)

Programs like Rushfit, Insanity and P90X aim to offer a comprehensive program that will help consumers successfully reach their health, fitness and weight-loss goals. There is no question that these are ambitious goals, particularly when you consider how many variables are involved, such as diet, exercise (activity and non-exercise activity) and behavioral change. After all, these are the foundational principles for achieving that elusive physical metamorphosis so many desire, but they must never be offered at the expense of good science and safe programming appropriateness.While each of these programs possesses both merits and drawbacks, it is important to consider the bigger picture. What happens after the immediate workout that leaves a person out of breath and lying flat on his or her back? Or after the short-term extreme diet that promotes unhealthy weight loss? How do these experiences change the way people think and feel about their health and well-being, and how will it influence their choices in the future? A program that leaves an experienced exerciser exhausted and elated at the notion that muscle soreness is merely a forthcoming adaptation means something completely different to an individual who has been told by his or her physician to get into shape. To that end, we hope this evaluation provided greater insight into the strengths and weaknesses of these popular programs. If this review helps you serve the needs and desires of your clients and the public with whom you engage in fitness dialogue more effectively, then we have accomplished our primary goal with this endeavor.The most accurate sided-by-side comparison I've found is posted on the American Council of Exercise website by Fabio Comana. It is an excellent expert lead report!P90X™, Insanity™ and Rushfit™—turn on your TV or computer, and you’ll be hard pressed to miss an infomercial from one of these products claiming that it will transform your body into the “best shape of your life.” Given their extreme popularity (and subsequent profitability), it’s no surprise that these programs have spawned sequels and imitators. Interestingly, each product includes some slick marketing educational piece demonstrating the program’s revolutionary training method for shaping your physique, whether it be through “Muscle Confusion,” “Max Interval Training” or “High Intensity Interval Training.” Hardly revolutionary, these are training modalities that are generally categorized under Metabolic Conditioning (MC). After all, years before these programs existed, renowned researcher Dr. William Kraemer, a professor of kinesiology at the University of Connecticut, Storrs, demonstrated the merits of muscle confusion (non-linear or undulating periodization), including the ability to induce greater levels of metabolic stress and adaptation upon the body. And Tabata, LaForgia and colleagues demonstrated the benefits of high-intensity interval training (H.I.I.T.) approximately 15 years ago. BeachbodyTM (which produces both Insanity and P90X) and others have successfully turned these concepts into revenue-generating goldmines. Of course, popularity is no guarantee of effectiveness, so ACE decided to put P90X, Insanity and Rushfit to the test in a head-to-head match-up to evaluate each on the basis on efficacy, science and safety.A Brief Review of Metabolic ConditioningBefore we get started, let’s briefly review the overall concept of metabolic conditioning (MC), which is defined as training that incorporates more integrated (whole-body), high work rate–type exercise sessions of moderate loads (resistance), coupled with shorter active recovery periods (activity during recovery) or even no-recovery periods. One key goal is to boost caloric expenditure during and after workouts (i.e., excess post-exercise oxygen consumption, or EPOC). This form of training is generally achieved through a combination of one or more of the following:Manipulating load (force generated) or the amount of resistanceManipulating the volume of work performed (usually quantified by the amount of sets times the number of repetitions performed in a session)Manipulating power or the rate at which work is performedThe initial strength improvements often witnessed early in a program are attributed more to neurological changes within the body as opposed to increases in muscle mass or size.Metabolic conditioning represents many different things to different individuals. To the athlete, it is specific training that mimics the demands of their sport—more specifically, the movement patterns and energy pathways needed for performance. To occupational professionals (e.g., firefighters, military servicemen or -women), tactical metabolic conditioning is task-specific, preparing them to perform their jobs successfully, efficiently and free from harm. For most people, however, MC is really just about health and fitness, with workouts designed to focus primarily upon helping individuals lose weight by increasing the number of expended calories during exercise and recovery. To a lesser extent, they also emphasize building muscle mass, which in turn increases the body’s metabolic flame (the increase in resting metabolism associated with having more muscle tissue). Contrary to many of the testimonials offered within infomercials, the reality is that while muscle conditioning (endurance, toning, etc.) is a likely outcome, most adults are lucky if they achieve significant muscle gains during these relatively short, defined program timeframes (e.g., 60, 90 days or eight weeks). While muscle typically takes four to six weeks after beginning a workout to start showing any increase in mass and size, a majority of research only shows adults gaining 2 to 4.5 pounds during studies lasting eight to 52 weeks.Initial Product ImpressionsThrough both infomercials and the Web, all three products utilize an effective marketing strategy to capture interest, especially through vicarious experience (seeing others successfully performing the workouts). Thus, after ordering each product, task number one was to review the introductory segments of each program, then take more time to review all the DVDs. Table 1 compares the costs, requirements, and overall appeal of the host and presentation of the workouts, while Table 2 details the goals, objectives and format of each program. http://www.acefitness.org/certifiednewsarticle/1443/p90x-insanity-and-rushfit-a-side-by-side/How Do the Three Programs Measure Up?The three programs are compared side-by-side for overall content, quality, training purpose(s) and strengths. A 1 to 10 scoring system (Tables 3, 4 and 5) is used for qualitative and quantitative purposes to evaluate each parameter measured, with a “1” indicating “poor” and a score of “10” indicating “excellent.”http://www.acefitness.org/certifiednewsarticle/1443/p90x-insanity-and-rushfit-a-side-by-side/Scientific Value: Evaluation, Appropriateness and SafetyRushfit: Overall Exercise Program ImpressionsTrainer Erik Owings demonstrates a solid understanding of science, exercise programming and progression. This program offers foundational instruction of key movement patterns that include squats, lunges, push-ups, sit-ups, rotations and dumbbell exercises, but he does miss some important technique cues (e.g., hip-hinging, lumbar stability) and key compensations, such as St-Pierre’s lack of mobility during squats, during which his feet fall into pronation and his heels lift during the lowering phase. This is a bit concerning given the repetitive nature and complexity of some of these exercises and movement patterns.However, Owings clearly is knowledgeable about training the body and energy systems, as evidenced by his progressions and work-to-recovery ratios (e.g., during his plyometric intervals, he incorporates appropriate work-to-recovery ratios. He also demonstrates easier exercise alternatives and modifications for many of his movements for novice exercisers.The exercise and movement patterns selected mimic various activities of daily living while also introducing a variety of basic movements and techniques needed by the MMA fighter (especially in The Fight Conditioning Workout). All the participants perform the workouts barefoot, much the way an MMA fighter trains and fights. While I personally believe we all need some form of barefoot training, not everyone should or will want to train barefoot. This does not imply that these workouts cannot be performed with shoes on, but I think some discussion on the matter would have been helpful.The workouts offer a comprehensive approach to MC training that targets a variety of the health-related parameters of fitness (endurance, strength, flexibility and cardio) and the skill-related parameters of fitness (power, agility, balance, coordination and quickness).Insanity: Overall Exercise Program ImpressionsFrom a scientific standpoint, what is most alarming about the Insanity program is the overall lack of understanding of science, programming and how to effectively train the energy pathways. This is evident from start to finish. For example, DVD #1 features a battery of eight fit tests, each challenging the exerciser to complete as many repetitions of a particular movement in 60 seconds, separated by brief 30- to 60-second recovery intervals. Given the protocols selected, sequence of testing and the work-to-recovery ratios, one must question the validity and purpose of this battery. A good test administrator recognizes the need for purposeful tests that avoid redundancy, utilizes a progressive test sequence (assessing more compound movements first) and also allows for appropriate muscle and energy pathway recovery between assessments. All of these elements are missing, as the tests induce partial fatigue with simpler movements before the more complex and challenging protocols are conducted. Additionally, it strings together a series of almost redundant jumping drills in succession before concluding with two assessments emphasizing the upper extremity. Even the most basic of circuits alternates between the upper and lower extremities to allow for appropriate recovery.Equally concerning is the intensity of the warm-ups, which last approximately 10 minutes and have the models sidelined in exhaustion. This is followed by approximately five to eight minutes of static stretching, which makes little sense given the mostly plyometric-based training that follows. On a positive note, however, a static stretching component is appropriately included in the post-exercise segment.The coaching cues and exercise instruction are poor. The introductory DVD begins with some basic instruction and a review of four basic movements that are used frequently throughout the program—jumps, squats, planks and a C-sit. Not only are most of these movements instructed incorrectly, but many of the technique instructions are simply read from a checklist, with almost no explanation or demonstration to the end-user. Additionally, on countless occasions, the trainer emphasizes a specific technique in one area while neglecting other more significant compensations (e.g., missing repeated valgus stress in the knees during jump-landing in many of the female models, while demonstrating a firm core). Most experts agree that it is not advisable to introduce jumping activities until you have successfully instructed individuals how to land correctly, a basic premise omitted with this program.While each workout features a unique (albeit similar) title, it is almost impossible to make sense of each workout’s objective or differentiators, other than simply inducing fatigue and exhaustion with repetitive exercises and to burn calories. This suggests that the trainer, Shawn T, simply devised a series of exercises (emphasizing low-to-moderate lower-extremity plyometric exercises), then randomly assigned them to different workouts without rhyme or reason.Dr. Donald Chu, a leader in plyometric training and research, has long suggested that appropriate plyometric volumes for athletes should be based upon training experience and intensity, and determined by the number of foot or upper-extremity contacts. While most of Insanity’s drills qualify as low-to-moderate intensity drills, the number of foot contacts featured in several sessions is almost double the number suggested by Chu, which raises concerns about repetitive micro-trauma or overuse.No programming philosophy appears to exist for how the workouts are sequenced during the “circuits” (e.g., alternating upper and lower extremities or push-pull movements), and DVDs labeled as “Max” are simply longer workouts. Almost every DVD involves jumping, along with static and dynamic balance drills (to a lesser extent). The “Max Interval Plyo” workout primarily targets muscular endurance and only has four true plyometric exercises. Given their complexity and increased potential for injury, plyometrics are traditionally performed early in a session.Curiously, Cardio Abs is filled with jumping activities, and the Core Cardio and Balance workout introduces three true balance exercises during the last 14 minutes of the workout. Again, balance training is traditionally positioned toward the earlier phases of a session when concentration levels are higher (e.g., during dynamic warm-ups).Exercisers are frequently asked to monitor heart rate (HR), but no information or explanation is offered regarding target HR zones or appropriate HR training intensities.While this program demonstrates popularity among competitive, athletic individuals, perhaps creating a cult-like following, it does present a myriad of concerns for the average deconditioned individual who is simply trying to improve his or her overall health and fitness. Although Insanity’s effective marketing campaign clearly states this “program is not for everyone,” part of its success is attributed to how effectively it baits one’s competitive fervor, whether conditioned or not.For the average person, Insanity’s exercise intensities, exercise selections, sequences, durations and work-to-recovery ratios are inappropriate and, at a minimum, may breed disappointment. When exercisers are encouraged to use outcome goals (e.g., complete as many reps as possible in 60 seconds) without adequate recovery, it is just a matter of time before individuals begin to perceive failure if they are unable to complete some (or even most) of the assigned drills.P90X: Overall Exercise Program ImpressionsOne of the first things that is evident from the P90X DVDs is the charisma and humor that characterizes Tony Horton’s teaching style. He possesses a strong ability to engage participants and build rapport effectively, demonstrating skill sets so critical for success when working with people. Additionally, his sense of humor certainly helps alleviate the anxieties many people possess associated with exercise. Undeniably, these traits probably account for much of the success his program has enjoyed.Metabolic or physiological stress, or “muscle confusion” as he calls it, is nothing new, but he has developed a comprehensive system that puts it into practice. His program design, while not perfect, as no program ever is, is deeply rooted in science. It is evident that he has gone to great lengths to develop his program and consider which of the various parameters of physical fitness should be included. He identifies appropriate exercise modifications for more inexperienced individuals, understands how to train muscle groups (split routines) and how to sequence exercises with appropriate recovery intervals. Although he does miss key biomechanical flaws and cues during his instruction and coaching of various exercises, he is attentive to safety and his instructional cues are generally solid.Unfortunately, one disappointing aspect of P90X is the need to make a considerable investment into ancillary equipment to complete the workouts. Unlike the other products, the muscle-strengthening focus of P90X requires resistance equipment, which may come as an unexpected surprise to many consumers. While this equipment is readily available within the confines of a commercial gym, most people intend to perform these DVD-based workouts at home. It is no surprise, then, that Beachbody offers all of the necessary equipment for purchase on its Web site. Of course, these items can also be found at most sporting-goods stores, as well.As with Insanity, exercisers are frequently asked to monitor heart rate (HR), and check target HR zones, but little explanation is offered for why this is necessary. While there is an initial cardio test that measures recovery HR, no information or explanation is offered in the program regarding target HR zones or appropriate HR training intensities.Dietary ComponentsFor most people, the impact on weight loss of a calorie-restricted diet is greater than the effects of exercise during the initial phases of a weight-loss program. When one considers initial tolerance levels for exercise intensity, duration and frequency for most deconditioned individuals, and the fact that elevated metabolic rates attributed to the addition of a few added pounds of lean mass do not occur for four to six weeks, a successful program to transform the body has to include effective dietary strategies. With that in mind, let’s take a look at how the three programs stack up in terms of nutritional and weight-loss advice.RushfitRushfit’s nutrition guide is very simple, suggesting healthier sources for the three macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein and fats) and a variety of effective dietary strategies. The program also offers pre- and post-exercise snack or meal guidelines. While the pre-workout macronutrient proportions and hydrationstrategies fall in line with recommendations from current research, the post-exercise guidelines prove somewhat questionable. The general nature of their workouts is anaerobic endurance, which utilizes carbohydrates as a primary fuel, necessitating glycogen replenishment during recovery, especially during the first one to two hours post-exercise when recovery rates are greatest. Reducing carbohydrate intakes to 35 percent of consumed calories during this period only serves to retard glycogen recovery, which normally can take 24 to 36 hours. Consequently, progressively lowering available glycogen stores will compromise energy and performance levels in successive workouts.The body requires carbohydrates to metabolize fats completely, and if an individual’s carbohydrates stores become progressively depleted, his or her fuel utilization will be compromised. Without adequate carbohydrates provided by the diet, the body turns to a viable alternative to convert specific amino acids to glucose for fuel or to allow it to continue burning fats. Unfortunately, 99 percent of these usable proteins exist in the form of muscle tissue; thus, this practice simply promotes attacks on muscle protein.While protein is crucial to recovery for muscle synthesis, suggesting 55 percent of the post-exercise calories originate from protein stores is excessive. Various research studies demonstrate a 3:1 or 4:1 ratio of carbohydrates-to-protein as optimal for enhancing recovery rates after exercise.Estimates of daily caloric expenditure or caloric need are important, yet very difficult to ascertain. Many rely upon standardized formulas (e.g., Harris & Benedict) and standard activity factors to estimate current activity and total daily energy expenditure. While these formulas are commonly used, it is important to understand that they can feature large margins of error of as much as 500 to 750 kcal per day.P90XBeachbody’s business model relies significantly upon income generated through their supplement line, and both the P90X and Insanity programs prominently feature supplement sales. In the interest of time, this discussion will focus upon the P90X’s Nutrition Plan, which is both extensive and controversial. Although Carrie Latt Wiatt, author of various nutritional books, is featured and appears to endorse the P90X nutrition plan (on DVD #1), this diet does deviates significantly from current 2010 USDA Dietary Guidelines.P90X contains a three-phase nutrition plan (approximately 30 days each) and allows the user to choose the most suitable timing and plan. Each phase is significantly different and some research does support the notion of changing one's diet composition and caloric intake on a regular basis as a means to induce metabolic stress and possibly assist in weight loss.Phase 1: Fat ShredderMacronutrient composition: 50 percent protein, 30 percent carbohydrate, 20 percent fatClaim: High-protein diet designed to strengthen muscle will rapidly shred fat from the bodyConcerns: The 2010 USDA Dietary Guidelines suggest that 45 percent to 65 percent of total calories should originate from carbohydrate sources, yet this dietary phase targets 30 percent, an amount considered carbohydrate-restricted.One stated objective behind this phase is to shed fat, but realistically much of the initial and rapid weight loss will stem predominantly from the loss of water rather than true fat loss. After all, carbohydrate-restricted diets gradually deplete the quantity of stored carbohydrates (glycogen) within the body, and for every gram of glycogen stored, 2.4–2.7 g of water are stored. Therefore, as these stores deplete, much of the weight lost is simply the release of water mass (e.g., sweat, urine), but this mass will return once a healthy, non-carbohydrate-restricted diet is resumed. Additionally, restricted carbohydrates diets tap energy reserves, increasing fatigue and decreasing exercise performance.As carbohydrates stores are depleted, the body attempts to spare the remaining carbohydrates and burn more fats. However, without adequate dietary carbohydrates, the body will utilize available proteins to manufacture glucose (carbohydrate). While this may spare any attacks upon existing muscle, the process of metabolizing proteins for energy or conversion to glucose exacts a toll on both the liver and kidneys, increases urine output and possible dehydration, and, as some research suggests, may potentially increase bone calcium losses.Following the example provided on page 5 of the nutrition plan (180-pound male classified in Level II aiming for 2,400 kcal/day), 50 percent of kcal from protein would amount to 1,200 kcal, or 300 g/day of protein. By contrast, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for this same individual is 65.5 g/day, and leading fitness organizations suggest that a resistance-trained 180-pound male should consume 115 to 147 g/day of protein. In fact, the highest level of protein intake considered to be safe for this individual is 164 g/day, which is considerably less than the P90X guideline suggests.Furthermore, a high-protein intake makes even less sense given that little muscle growth actually occurs during the first four to six weeks. Rather, initial strength gains are associated primarily with neurological changes that do not require mega amounts of protein to achieve that outcome.Recommendation: Skip this phase. Be smart and follow the current USDA Dietary Guidelines. Do not restrict carbohydrates below 45 percent of total calories consumed. Keep your protein intake between 10 percent and 35 percent of total caloric intake (meets current guidelines) and not at the 50 percent this phase recommends. If you have specific needs or possess a strong desire to follow this phase, talk to a registered dietitian first.Phase 2: Energy BoosterMacronutrient composition: 40 percent protein, 40 percent carbohydrate, 20 percent fatClaim: A balanced mix of carbohydrates and protein with lower amounts of fat will supply additional energy for performanceConcerns: This phase is referred to as an energy booster, and individuals should probably experience greater energy levels because near-normal levels of carbohydrates are being reintroduced. Following this diet during the second month of training, when additional protein is needed for muscle building, does merit good protein intake. However, the recommendation to consume 40 percent protein and 40 percent carbohydrates is still outside of recommended guidelines for active individuals.Recommendation: In terms of protein and carbohydrate intake, Phase 2 is considerably better than Phase 1.Phase 3: Endurance MaximizerMacronutrient composition: 20 percent protein, 60 percent carbohydrate, 20 percent fatClaim: An athletic diet of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins and lower fat is the necessary combination to get the most out of this final training block.Concerns: This training block is simply block 1 and block 2 repeated (weeks 9 & 11 = Block 1, week 10 & 12 = Block 2). While this phase matches the current dietary recommendations and most closely resembles the traditionally dietary plans of endurance athletes, a 60 percent carbohydrate intake may not be suitable or palatable for all.Recommendation: If more cardio and endurance is the goal, then shifting toward this diet is logical. Furthermore, 45 percent to 55 percent carbohydrates, 20 percent to 25 percent protein and 20 percent to 30 percent fat is healthy and will satisfy almost all individuals.Finally, a word about Beachbody’s supplement upsale: Arguably, supplements have value for some individuals, but are they necessary when one’s goal is to simply improve overall health and fitness? Not if a well-balanced and healthy diet is followed. However, those who sell or endorse supplements will necessarily take a different stand. Supplements should always be considered a complement to diet rather than a replacement for proper nutrition.Beachbody’s recommendation to consume 4 to 8 ounces of fluid every 15 minutes during exercise is alarming given that leading health and fitness guidelines suggest 7 to 10 ounces every 15 minutes during exercise.An exceptional article from Fabio Comana, M.A., M.S., is an exercise physiologist and spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise, and an adjunct professor at San Diego State University (SDSU) and the University of California San Diego (UCSD), teaching courses in exercise science and nutrition. He holds two master’s degrees, one in exercise physiology and one in nutrition, as well as certifications through ACE, ACSM, NSCA and ISSN.via http://www.acefitness.org/certifiednewsarticle/1443/p90x-insanity-and-rushfit-a-side-by-side/

Question: If only modern medical science is scientifically proven, then how do people get cured by traditional medicinal therapies like Ayurveda, yoga, homeopathy, etc.?Modern medicine is Evidence Based Medicine. Allow me to briefly explain how that works.Diseases, their pathophysiology, progression, and medicines used for their treatment are studied systematically by clinicians as well as researchers. These studies are then drafted into research papers.These research papers are then peer-reviewed, i.e. other experts from that field of research will critically evaluate the paper for flaws and inaccuracies. Only then does is get published in journals. Usually, the better quality research gets published in higher ranked journals.Guidelines for diagnosis and management are then formed by a taskforce/consortium of global or regional experts for that disease. The evidence is ranked according to quality as in the pyramid below.Taking an example of a drug A as an effective treatment of, say diabetes (by reducing sugar levels) I would briefly explain in simple terms what the above pyramid represents.(This is a highly simplified overview just for comprehension of those not used to research methodology. Edits from fellow scientists/ researchers/ doctors are welcome)Expert opinion: The lowest acceptable level of evidence is when a panel of proven experts of a field consider drug A to improve control of sugars, in case there is not enough data to draw a logical conclusion.Animal Studies: Drug A when given to diabetic animals(usually rats/mice), is found to reduce sugars.Case reports/series: Drug A was used in a small number of cases (usually around 10–15) by an individual or a team of doctors, and was shown to reduce sugar levels.Cross sectional studies : A certain number of diabetes patients are assessed at a single point in time, and their sugar levels checked. Patients on drug A are found to have better control of sugars than those not on any treatment.Longitudinal uncontrolled trials: A number of patients are given drug A, and their sugar control improves over time.Randomized controlled trials: A number of patients are recruited in a trial. They are randomly divided in 2 groups. One gets drug A, another gets drug B. In a good trial, neither the patient not the doctor knows who is getting which drug. Any confounding factors (variables which can alter the results of the trial, for eg. use of other antidiabetic medicines in this case) are carefully recorded. Now the results are analysed, and find drug A to be better than drug B. The drug B can be a placebo or another antidiabetic drug.Multicentric RCT is when these patients are recruited from many different hospitals by different groups of doctors, and all data is pooled and analysed.Systematic review and meta-analysis: Data from all available trials are pooled in and analysed, keeping in mind the different populations and limitations of each study. This data supports drug A to be effective in control of sugar in diabetes.Any new drug/treatment modality is inducted in the system of modern medicine after this “Agnee-pareeksha”(Trail by fire) of clinical trials followed by peer-review.The origin of the drug may be from a fungus, a tree bark, or purely inorganic from a lab- the process is the same. Digitalis is a commonly used drug for treatment of heart failure- derived from a tree bark. Artemisinin - a super effective drug for malaria, has been inducted in modern medicine from Chinese traditional herbal medicine. Tu Youyou got the 2015 Nobel Prize in medicine for this discovery.Summing up, “only modern medicine is scientifically proven” is the wrong way to put it. Its actually what is scientifically proven that becomes modern medicine!!Coming to traditional therapies:Ayurveda- the traditional Indian system of medicine. I have deep faith in ancient Indian practices. However, I would not advise anyone to go for these medicines in the current scenario for three reasons-There have been almost no trails to assess the efficacy of these drugs.There is absolutely no quality control- so you would never know if you have been given powdered goat droppings in lieu of some bhasm or chhal. Even worse, these may be laced with heavy metals, leading to toxicity.A lot of the practitioners of ayurvedic medicine are prescribing modern medicines, something they are entirely out of their depth about, ending up causing more harm than good.(I got this image as a facebook forward, so cannot comment on the authenticity. However, one of the prescribed drugs here is potentially toxic to liver and bone marrow, and should be used only under careful physician supervision. Ayurvedic practitioners are NOT authorized to use these.)Yoga: A form of exercise and meditation: I would encourage everyone to go for yoga. It definitely helps with most lifestyle diseases, maybe in others too. Do the exercises, but do not listen to the “gurus” who make you buy different weird juices claiming they would cure your ailments. They are supposed to be an add-on, not a substitute to the therapy prescribed by your doctor.Homeopathy, Unani, Siddha:ABSOLUTE HOCUM! Homeopathy has been proven time and again to be downright useless by many international trials, and has been discredited by many societies. Unani and siddha have no scientific backing either. Practitioners of these ‘pathies’ prey upon the vulnerability of patients with self limiting ailments and chronic diseases with fluctuating courses. They would tell you that the drug will be effective over weeks to months. By then there is a chance the disease would either naturally resolve or go into remission.The “cure”, if it ever comes, has got absolutely nothing to do with their superdiluted toxin theory. In general, patients expect immediate and complete relief from physicians, but are remarkably patient and forgiving with these practitioners, so they have nothing to lose even if they fail. Interestingly, when they need medical attention, they go to fully qualified physicians.Suggested reading :Sahaj Rathi's answer to What is the way to know if a doctor is genuine or fake in India?