So you’re looking to understand more about nutrition and how it impacts your overall health. I see a lot of confusion around this topic, especially with all the information available online. People often come to me thinking they need to make drastic changes to their diet, cutting out entire food groups or following strict meal plans. But in reality, it’s all about balance and making sustainable lifestyle choices.
One thing I see almost every week is people skipping breakfast, thinking it’ll help with weight loss. But this usually backfires, leading to overeating later in the day. In my experience, starting your day with a nutritious meal can actually help regulate your appetite and give you energy to tackle your daily tasks. For office workers, this might mean preparing a quick and easy breakfast, like poha or idlis, the night before. Students can try keeping a bowl of fruits or nuts on their desk for a quick morning snack.
There’s also a lot of misinformation around certain “healthy” habits. For instance, many people think that drinking a lot of fruit juice is a great way to get their daily dose of vitamins. But the truth is, most fruit juices are high in sugar and low in fiber, which can actually do more harm than good. A better option would be to eat whole fruits, like oranges or bananas, which are rich in fiber and antioxidants.
In Indian homes, it’s common to have a busy schedule, with many responsibilities to juggle. But that doesn’t mean you can’t prioritize your health. Simple changes, like taking a short walk after dinner or doing a few stretches during commercial breaks while watching TV, can make a big difference. And when it comes to mealtime, try to involve the whole family in the cooking process. Not only will this help distribute the workload, but it’ll also encourage everyone to eat healthier, home-cooked meals together.
I’ve noticed that many of my clients have a misconception about healthy eating being expensive. But the truth is, you don’t need to break the bank to eat nutritious food. In fact, many traditional Indian ingredients, like lentils, vegetables, and whole grains, are quite affordable and packed with nutrients. A simple dal or sambar made with split red lentils and mixed vegetables can be a great source of protein and fiber. And the best part is, these ingredients are easily available in most Indian markets.
In my experience, the key to a healthy diet is to focus on addition, not subtraction. Instead of cutting out foods you enjoy, try adding more whole, nutrient-dense foods to your meals. This might mean adding some spinach to your curries, or having a side of roasted vegetables with your meals. And don’t be too hard on yourself if you indulge occasionally – it’s all about balance and making sustainable choices that work for you in the long run.