Sip and Soothe: Six Warm Drinks to Beat the Common Cold in India

When the common cold strikes, one of the most comforting remedies is a warm drink. In India, we have a rich tradition of herbal teas, spiced concoctions, and nourishing broths that can help soothe symptoms and boost immunity. In this blog post, we’ll explore some delightful warm drinks that can help you feel better and recover faster during cold season.

## 1. Ginger Tea (Adrak Chai)

Ginger is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it an excellent choice for combating cold symptoms.

### Ingredients:

- Fresh ginger, sliced

- Water

- Tea leaves (or a tea bag)

- Honey and lemon (optional)

### Instructions:

1. Boil water in a pot and add sliced ginger.

2. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes.

3. Add tea leaves or a tea bag and steep for a few minutes.

4. Strain into a cup, and add honey and lemon for extra flavor and benefits.

## 2. Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh)

Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, and when combined with warm milk, it creates a soothing drink that helps boost immunity.

### Ingredients:

- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- A pinch of black pepper

- Honey (optional)

### Instructions:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan.

2. Stir in turmeric powder and black pepper.

3. Sweeten with honey if desired, and enjoy warm.

## 3. Tulsi Tea

Tulsi, or holy basil, is celebrated in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties and is excellent for respiratory health.

### Ingredients:

- Fresh or dried tulsi leaves

- Water

- Honey and lemon (optional)

### Instructions:

1. Boil water in a pot and add tulsi leaves.

2. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes.

3. Strain into a cup and add honey and lemon if desired.

## 4. Spiced Warm Lemonade

This refreshing drink combines the benefits of vitamin C from lemons with warming spices.

### Ingredients:

- 1 cup water

- Juice of 1 lemon

- 1-2 teaspoons honey

- A pinch of black pepper and ginger powder

- A pinch of salt (optional)

### Instructions:

1. Boil water and remove from heat.

2. Add lemon juice, honey, black pepper, and ginger powder.

3. Stir well and enjoy warm.

## 5. Herbal Kashayam

Kashayam is a traditional Ayurvedic drink made with various spices and herbs, known for its immune-boosting properties.

### Ingredients:

- 1 cup water

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1/2 inch piece of ginger

- 1-2 teaspoons jaggery (optional)

### Instructions:

1. Boil water and add black pepper, cumin seeds, and ginger.

2. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.

3. Strain into a cup and add jaggery if desired.

## 6. Warm Vegetable Broth

A warm, nourishing broth can be incredibly soothing when you're feeling under the weather.

### Ingredients:

- 2 cups water

- Chopped vegetables (carrots, celery, onion, garlic)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh herbs (like coriander or parsley)

### Instructions:

1. Boil water in a pot and add chopped vegetables.

2. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.

3. Season with salt and pepper, and enjoy warm.

## Conclusion

Warm drinks can provide comfort and relief when battling the common cold. From ginger tea to turmeric milk, these traditional Indian remedies not only soothe your throat but also support your immune system. 

Remember to stay hydrated, rest well, and consider consulting a healthcare professional if symptoms persist. Sip on these delightful drinks and enjoy the warmth as you recover!

Sculpting Smoothness: Nutritional Secrets to Reduce Cellulite

 Cellulite is a common concern for many, characterized by a dimpled appearance on the skin, particularly in areas like the thighs, hips, and abdomen. While factors such as genetics, hormones, and lifestyle play a significant role in its development, diet can also influence the appearance of cellulite. In this blog post, we’ll explore nutritional secrets specifically tailored for individuals in India to help reduce cellulite and promote smoother skin.

Understanding Cellulite

Cellulite occurs when fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin, leading to a lumpy appearance. While it is not harmful, many seek ways to minimize its visibility. Factors contributing to cellulite include:

- Genetics: Family history can play a role.

- Hormones: Fluctuations, especially in women, can increase its appearance.

- Diet: Poor nutrition can exacerbate the condition.

- Lifestyle: Lack of exercise and smoking can contribute.

Nutritional Secrets for Reducing Cellulite

1. Hydration is Key

Staying well-hydrated is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of cellulite. Dehydration can make cellulite more noticeable.

Tip: Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Incorporate hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges into your diet.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Inflammation can worsen the appearance of cellulite. Including anti-inflammatory foods can help combat this.

Key Foods:

- Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, add turmeric to your curries or smoothies.

- Ginger: Use fresh ginger in teas or as a spice in cooking.

- Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants, green tea can help boost metabolism and reduce fat accumulation.

3. Healthy Fats

Incorporating healthy fats into your diet can help improve skin health and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Key Options:

- Avocado: Rich in healthy fats, avocados can be enjoyed in salads or as a spread.

- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Snack on a handful or add them to your meals.

- Coconut Oil: Use coconut oil for cooking or as a dressing for salads.

4. Fiber-Rich Foods

A diet high in fiber can aid digestion and help maintain a healthy weight, both of which are important for minimizing cellulite.

Key Foods:

- Whole Grains: Opt for brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat chapati.

- Fruits and Vegetables: Include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, such as berries, leafy greens, and carrots.

- Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans are great sources of fiber.

5. Lean Proteins

Incorporating lean proteins can support muscle development and help tone the skin, reducing the appearance of cellulite.

Key Options:

- Chicken and Fish: Include grilled chicken or fish like salmon in your meals.

- Dairy: Low-fat yogurt and paneer can be good sources of protein.

-Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, besan and beans are great sources of lean proteins

6. Limit Processed Foods and Sugars

Processed foods and excessive sugar can contribute to weight gain and inflammation, both of which can worsen cellulite.

Tip: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods. Avoid sugary snacks, pastries, and fast food.

Sample Meal Plan for Reducing Cellulite

Here’s a simple meal plan incorporating the nutritional strategies mentioned:

Breakfast

- Oats porridge - cooked with water or milk, topped with sliced banana and a sprinkle of flaxseeds OR veg Dalia

- A cup of green tea.

Snack

- A handful of mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, and pistachios).

Lunch

- Brown rice with dal (lentils) and a side of mixed vegetable curry cooked with turmeric and ginger.

- Cucumber salad with lemon and mint.

Snack

- Yogurt with chopped fruits (like papaya or apple) and a drizzle of honey.

Dinner

- Grilled fish or chicken or Tofu marinated with spices and served with steamed broccoli and whole wheat chapati.

Conclusion

While cellulite is a common condition, making mindful dietary choices can significantly help in reducing its appearance. By focusing on hydration, anti-inflammatory foods, healthy fats, and fiber-rich options, you can work toward smoother skin.

Remember, lifestyle factors such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking also play essential roles in managing cellulite. Consult with a healthcare professional or a qualifies dietitian for personalized advice. With the right nutrition and care, you can take steps toward achieving smoother, healthier skin!

Am I Suffering from High Blood Pressure?

The other day, I had a slight headache and just didn’t feel like myself. I decided to visit the doctor. He checked my blood pressure — 160/100. Oh no! That’s high. Yes, I have high blood pressure.

But don’t worry — the doctor is really good. He prescribed some medicines and I’ve been taking them regularly. I even avoid sprinkling extra salt on food. Still, my blood pressure isn’t coming down to normal.

“It’s okay,” I thought. My neighbour told me once you start BP medicines, you have to take them lifelong anyway. And honestly, going to the doctor again feels tiresome… and expensive. So I skipped it.

But is that the right approach?

I know I’m not alone. Many of you are probably in the same boat. But here’s the thing: regular check-ups are important. Your doctor might need to adjust your dosage or even change your medication. Constant high BP can quietly damage your heart, kidneys, and brain.

And that’s not all — your diet plays a major role. Visiting a qualified dietitian isn’t as expensive as you think. In fact, it might just save your life. Let me walk you through some common dietary mistakes we unknowingly make and how to fix them:

---

❌ 1. Restaurant or Outside Food

Even if it doesn’t taste salty, there’s hidden salt to make it flavorful.

✔ Remedy: Always request the chef or server to prepare your meal with less salt.

---

❌ 2. Frozen Foods

Salt is used as a preservative to freeze food.

✔ Remedy: Choose frozen options with 600 mg sodium or less per serving.

---

❌ 3. Salty Snacks

Chips, khakhra, mathri, bhelpuri… they’re everywhere!

✔ Remedy: Make your own snack — roasted poha or homemade bhel with jeera powder, black pepper, chaat masala, lemon juice, or amchur instead of salt.

---

❌ 4. Pickled Foods

Again, loads of hidden salt.

✔ Remedy: Use fresh green chutneys with lemon juice, tamarind, curd, or amla for that tangy punch.

---

❌ 5. Papad

It’s dried with added salt.

✔ Remedy: Best to avoid completely.

---

❌ 6. Bread

It doesn’t taste salty, but it is!

✔ Remedy: Skip white bread. Opt for whole grain or homemade versions if needed.

---

❌ 7. Packaged Soups

Usually full of salt and preservatives.

✔ Remedy: Prepare fresh homemade soups with herbs and spices, no cornflour or sauces.

---

❌ 8. Canned Juices and Sauces

Loaded with hidden salt.

✔ Remedy: Choose fresh chutneys over store-bought sauces.

---

❌ 9. Processed Meats

These rely heavily on salt for preservation.

✔ Remedy: Choose fresh meat, fish, or chicken instead.

---

❌ 10. Pizzas

Salt in the crust, cheese, sauce — it adds up.

✔ Remedy: If you must, opt for a thin-crust version with more veggies and less cheese.

---

❌ 11. Beer, Wine, and Alcohol

These affect blood pressure and overall heart health.

✔ Remedy: Limit or avoid altogether, especially if you already have high BP.

---

❌ 12. Cheese (Processed or Aged)

High in salt content.

✔ Remedy: Use fresh paneer, goat cheese, or mozzarella in moderation.

---

❌ 13. Condiments (Soy Sauce, Ketchup, Dressings)

Often packed with sodium.

✔ Remedy: Choose vinegar, lemon juice, or tamarind water for flavor.

---

Final Thoughts

High blood pressure is serious, but manageable. Don’t ignore it. Don’t self-medicate. And don’t believe everything your neighbour says!

Regular medical follow-up and a low-sodium, heart-friendly diet can go a long way in protecting your health.

If you think you’re doing everything right but your blood pressure is still high — maybe it’s time to check again. And maybe, it’s time to consult a dietitian.

Your health is worth it. ❤️

Kiss Dryness Goodbye: Nourishing Foods for Soft Lips

 Chapped lips can be a common concern, especially in harsh weather conditions. Factors such as dehydration, dry air, and nutritional deficiencies can contribute to dry, cracked lips. Fortunately, the right foods can help keep your lips soft and hydrated.

Understanding Chapped Lips

Chapped lips occur when the skin becomes dry and flaky, often leading to discomfort.

Common causes include:

- Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can lead to dryness.

- Weather Conditions: Hot, dry, or cold weather can strip moisture from your lips.

- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of vitamins and minerals can exacerbate dryness.

- Lip Products: Some lip balms may contain irritating ingredients.

5 Nourishing Foods for Soft Lips

1. Hydrating Foods

Incorporating hydrating foods into your diet can help maintain moisture levels in your body and lips.

Key Indian Foods:

- Cucumbers (Kheera): High in water content, cucumbers are refreshing and can be used in salads or as a snack.

- Watermelon (Tarbooz): This hydrating fruit is packed with vitamins A and C, perfect for summer.

- Oranges (Santra): Rich in vitamin C and water, oranges help keep your skin and lips hydrated.

2. Healthy Fats

Healthy fats are crucial for maintaining skin moisture.

Key Sources:

- Avocado (Makhanphal): This creamy fruit is rich in healthy fats and can be used in salads or spreads.

- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds (Badam), walnuts (Akhrot), and flaxseeds (Alsi) are excellent for skin health. Snack on them or add them to your dishes.

- Coconut Oil: Use coconut oil in cooking or as a natural lip balm to keep your lips moisturized.

3. Fruits and Vegetables Rich in Vitamins

Certain vitamins are essential for skin health.

Key Options:

- Berries (like strawberries):While not common in all regions, they are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. If available, enjoy them fresh.

- Carrots (Gajar): High in beta-carotene, carrots help maintain healthy skin. Enjoy them raw as snacks or cooked in curries.

- Spinach (Palak): Packed with vitamins A and C, spinach supports overall skin health. Use it in sabzis or salads.

4. Protein-Rich Foods

Protein supports skin repair and regeneration.

Key Options:

- Lean Meats: Chicken and fish are great sources of protein. Include them in your meals for skin health.

- Legumes: Lentils (Dal), chickpeas (Chana), and kidney beans (Rajma) provide plant-based protein. Incorporate them in dals, curries, or salads.

5. Hydrating Beverages

Staying hydrated is key for soft lips, so choose your beverages wisely.

Key Drinks:

- Herbal Teas: Chamomile or tulsi (holy basil) tea can be soothing and hydrating.

- Coconut Water: Naturally hydrating and rich in electrolytes, it’s perfect for hot days.

- Smoothies: Blend fruits like bananas and mangoes with yogurt or milk for a delicious and hydrating treat.

Sample Indian Meal Plan for Soft Lips

Here’s a simple meal plan incorporating nourishing Indian foods:

Breakfast

- Oats porridge topped with chopped almonds and a drizzle of honey.

- A glass of fresh orange juice.

Snack

- Cucumber slices with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Lunch

- Brown rice with dal (lentils) cooked with turmeric and ginger, and a side of mixed vegetable sabzi

Snack

- Carrot sticks with a side of hummus or yogurt dip.

Dinner

- Grilled chicken tikka or paneer tikka with whole wheat roti and a side of spinach salad.

Conclusion

Chapped lips need not be a persistent problem. By incorporating hydrating foods, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich options into your diet, you can keep your lips soft and smooth. Remember to drink plenty of water and consider using natural lip balms to provide additional moisture.

With these nourishing foods and a little care, you can say goodbye to dryness and enjoy healthy, kissable lips all year round!

Disclaimer: The article is written by me on the basis of my educational experience. There might be other reasons for the problems. Consult a Qualified Dietitian for the food related opinions and a qualified medical professional for health related problems

From Pain to Plate: Nutritional Strategies for Carpal Tunnel Relief

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects many people, especially those engaged in repetitive wrist movements. While treatments often include physical therapy and medical interventions, dietary choices can also play a crucial role in managing symptoms and promoting recovery. In this blog post, we’ll explore nutritional strategies specifically tailored for individuals in India dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, running through the wrist, becomes compressed. Common symptoms include:

- Numbness or tingling in the fingers

- Pain radiating up the arm

- Weakness in the hand

Several factors can contribute to CTS, including repetitive hand movements, wrist injuries, and underlying health conditions.

Nutritional Strategies for Relief

 1. Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Key Indian Foods:

- Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can be added to various dishes. Use it in curries, lentils, or milk.

- Ginger: Another powerful anti-inflammatory, ginger can be consumed fresh, in teas, or as a spice in cooking.

- Methi (Fenugreek) Seeds: These seeds can help reduce inflammation and can be included in parathas or as a spice in curries.

 2. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are rich in healthy fats, magnesium, and vitamin E, all of which can support nerve health.

Key Options:

- Almonds: A great source of vitamin E, almonds can be eaten raw or added to sweets and snacks.

- Walnuts:These nuts contain omega-3 fatty acids and can be enjoyed in salads or as a snack.

- Flaxseeds and Chia Seeds: High in omega-3s, these can be added to smoothies or yogurt.

 3. Fruits and Vegetables

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health and reduce inflammation.

Key Choices:

- Leafy Greens: Spinach, mustard greens (sarson), and fenugreek leaves (methi) are excellent options.

- Berries: If available, strawberries and blueberries are packed with antioxidants.

- Papaya:This tropical fruit is not only delicious but also contains enzymes that may help reduce inflammation.

 4. Whole Grains

Whole grains are a good source of fiber and nutrients that support overall health.

Key Options:

- Brown Rice: A healthier alternative to white rice, it can be paired with vegetables or lentils.

- Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat flour for chapatis and other baked goods.

- Millets:Varieties like bajra and jowar are nutritious and can be made into rotis or porridge.

 5. Hydration

Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and can help manage symptoms of CTS. 

Tip: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Herbal teas, such as ginger or chamomile, can also be beneficial.

6. Avoiding Trigger Foods

Certain foods can aggravate inflammation and worsen carpal tunnel symptoms. It's wise to limit or avoid:

- Processed Foods: These often contain unhealthy fats and sugars.

- Refined Sugars: Sweets and sugary drinks can promote inflammation.

- Excessive Salt: High sodium intake can lead to water retention and swelling.

 Sample Indian Meal Plan for Carpal Tunnel Relief

Here’s a simple meal plan incorporating the nutritional strategies mentioned:

 Breakfast

- Oats porridge with chopped almonds and a pinch of turmeric. OR veg dalia 

- A glass of warm water with lemon.

 Snack/ Mid morning 

- A bowl of mixed fruit salad with papaya, banana, and berries (if available).

 Lunch

- Chapattis or Brown rice with a side of dal (lentils) cooked with turmeric and ginger, and saag (leafy greens).

Snack

- Roasted chickpeas or methi paratha with yogurt.

 Dinner

- Grilled fish or chicken marinated with ginger and garlic or dal , served with steamed vegetables and whole wheat chapati 

Conclusion

While managing carpal tunnel syndrome often requires a comprehensive approach, incorporating specific nutritional strategies can significantly alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. By focusing on anti-inflammatory foods, ensuring adequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals, and staying hydrated, you can take proactive steps toward better wrist health.

Consult with a healthcare professional or a Qualified dietitian for personalized advice and treatment options. With the right diet and care, you can transform your pain into relief and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable life!

"Soothing Bites : Foods to Heal Canker Sores"

Canker sores, those pesky and painful lesions in the mouth, can make eating, drinking, and even talking uncomfortable. While they usually heal on their own, certain foods can help soothe the pain and promote healing. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best foods to eat when dealing with canker sores and some delicious recipes to try!

Understanding Canker Sores

Canker sores are small, shallow ulcers that can appear on the inside of your cheeks, gums, or tongue. They can be triggered by various factors, including stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, and underlying health issues. While they are not contagious, they can be quite irritating.

Foods That Help Heal Canker Sores

 1. Yogurt

Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your mouth and aid in healing. The cool texture can also provide soothing relief.

Tip: Opt for plain yogurt without added sugars, as sugar can irritate the sores.

 2. Smoothies

Smoothies are a great way to pack in nutrients without irritating your mouth. Use soft fruits like bananas and berries, and blend them with yogurt or almond milk for a refreshing drink.

**Recipe Idea:**  

**Berry Banana Smoothie**  

- 1 ripe banana  

- 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)  

- 1 cup plain yogurt or almond milk  

- Blend until smooth and enjoy!

3. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a gentle food that’s easy to swallow and offers a good source of fiber. It’s also warm and comforting, making it an excellent choice when you have canker sores.

Tip: Avoid adding citrus fruits or honey if they cause irritation.

 4. Soft Fruits

Soft fruits like bananas, melons, and applesauce are easy to eat and can provide essential vitamins. They are also hydrating, which is crucial for healing.

**Tip:** Steer clear of acidic fruits like oranges and pineapples, which can aggravate the sores.

5. Broths and Soups

Warm (but not hot) broths and soups can be soothing while providing nutrients. Opt for chicken or vegetable broth for hydration without irritation.

**Recipe Idea:**  

**Simple Chicken Broth**  

- 1 whole chicken  

- 2 carrots, chopped  

- 2 celery stalks, chopped  

- Salt and pepper to taste  

- Simmer all ingredients in water for 1-2 hours, strain, and enjoy!

6. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are creamy and easy to eat, making them an excellent comfort food. Add some butter or olive oil for flavor without adding irritants.

 7. Honey

Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can help soothe the pain of canker sores. It can also promote healing when applied directly to the sore.

Tip: Use honey as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal for added flavor and benefits.

 8. Green Vegetables

Cooked greens like spinach and kale are gentle on the mouth and packed with vitamins and minerals that support healing.

**Recipe Idea:**  

**Steamed Spinach**  

- 2 cups fresh spinach  

- Steam until wilted, then drizzle with olive oil and a pinch of salt.

 Foods to Avoid

While some foods can help, others can aggravate canker sores. Here are some to avoid:

- **Citrus Fruits:** Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits can irritate the sores.

- **Spicy Foods:** Spices can cause further discomfort.

- **Crunchy or Hard Foods:** Chips and nuts can scratch and worsen the pain.

- **Sugary Foods:** Sweets can promote irritation and slow healing.

Conclusion

Canker sores can be a painful nuisance, but with the right food choices, you can soothe the discomfort and promote healing. Incorporate these gentle and nourishing foods into your diet, and consider trying the recipes provided for a comforting meal. 

Remember, if your canker sores persist or become extremely painful, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment. Here's to a speedy recovery and delicious, soothing bites!

CANCER: Me as a Student - Dietitian - Patient - Survivor

This is a blog post written by me from different perspectives of the disease. 

The word CANCER was not new to me. I knew a little about it when I was studying , I watched patients during my internship, few of them died, few survived. During my job as a diet consultant in a multi specialty hospital, saw many patients, tried to ease the pain and the effects before, during and after the treatment. 

Then I had it too. I was not afraid or puzzled. I was somewhat confident. What I learnt from life-

Cancer is unavoidable. I don't think it can be prevented but few habits can definitely prevent it or lower the risk.

1. Listen to your body.  It's your body. You know what's going on inside . If there is sudden change in weight, stamina, urine, stool, skin, hunger, thirst, your feelings, your thoughts, your movements, be vigilant and find the root cause of it.

2. Watch your weight. If you are overweight or underweight , find the cause for it. Try to be in healthy limits. In my case I was in a healthy weight range (55 kgs) when cancer hit me it shoot up to 65 kgs. I knew the reason. 

 Here comes the monsoon and the fear of Scrub Typhus

It was August 2023.

I went to Rishikesh , a beautiful Uttarakhand town.

Not for a vacation, my in-laws were ill and unfortunately they passed away within a short span of time. As a daughter in law I was a part of the rites and duties. We came back after a fortnight or so. I had a fever with chills and malaise. (due to stress and agony, as everyone thought including me). As I had recovered from cancer a year ago, it seemed normal. Fever was over in days but I was too lethargic (might be viral). I started having confusion, digestive issues, breathing issues and so on . (I don’t even have the memory of the 10 days) .Was hospitalized, got tests done, detected low platelets. (might be Dengue). My friend who herself is a doctor came to visit me, she thought of something. I was referred to Max ( a super specialty hospital).  Everything was low in the parameters including the chances of survival.  The villain was SCRUB TYPHUS

Scrub Typhus

a bacterial infection caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi (from Japanese tsutsuga meaning "illness", and mushi meaning "insect") and transmitted by chigger bites (mite larvae)

I survived it because the doctors and my lady luck were at the same side. A delay of a day, my family members would have been writing an obituary speech.

A word of note to you-

• Just avoid the places with good vegetation, the green hill stations during the monsoons.
• Check with a doctor if you are having a fever after travelling.
• Do Not self medicate.
• Always check for rashes, bruises or cuts in any part of your body. Mine was in the thigh area . The bite mark is not painful at all. 

Good nutrition really helps.

There was fluid in the liver, lungs , and heart. It got treated.

Good nutrition gives you immunity.

Avoiding processed , packaged foods, deep fried foods really helps.

Proper hydration (at least 2.5 ltr plain water, no juices, smoothies, shakes) , (I avoid rather abstain myself from alcohol, soft drinks, energy drinks ) and daily exercises (about 45 minutes) protects us during these critical times.

Accidental health problems can arise to anybody but it can be overcome with positive thinking and easy ways. (people make a joke about me that being a dietitian I had cancer and scrub typhus but being a dietitian has helped me overcome the problem, BE POSITIVE!!

I might not have reduced the increased weight (thanks to the cocktail of steroids) but my HbA1C , thyroid, blood sugar, blood pressure are perfectly fine till now.

  Just believe in Yourself. Life is standing near an ocean, positive and negative waves will come, some will be big which will make you wet and some small which will touch your feet and go.

Prepare yourself with proper nutrition, health and hygiene and live. 

My life is too spicy..

My life is too spicy..

I am proud to be Indian. I like to follow the age old traditions and culture of my country. I am not orthodox and don't believe in dogmas but residing in various areas of my country and being a part of the modern world I like to connect the traditions and beliefs with science.

India is full of spices. Most of the spices of the world are grown here . And I like to use the spices in my daily routine.

My day starts with a big glass of lukewarm water with turmeric , then a cup of hot tea in which ginger , tulsi , liquorice , black pepper is added. Breakfast consists of rice flakes or semolina tempered with curry leaves , mustard seeds , turmeric , chat masala 

Lunch is pulses tempered with cumin seeds , asafoetida, bay leaf, turmeric , red chilli powder and garam masala. Green leafy vegetable sautéed with a little bit of poppy seeds. Vegetable curry added with garlic , ginger , cumin turmeric powder , coriander powder , chilli powder , dry mango. Hand rolled breads in which caraway seeds are added.Curd has a pinch of black salt .

Evenings are mostly khakra or roasted puff rice or rice flakes or dhokla tempered with curry leaves , mustard seeds , asafoetida, turmeric powder , red chillies , fenugreek seeds.

Dinner non veg or cottage cheese or pulse preparation and the spices used are green cardamom, cinnamon, black cardamom,cloves , black pepper, star anise , bay leaf, nutmeg, mace , all spice , cumin , ginger, garlic, turmeric, coriander, aniseed, caraway . Along with rice or hand rolled breads with a vegetable sautéed or curried with turmeric, coriander , garam masala and chillies. Dessert is mostly pudding seasoned with bay leaf and green cardamom and saffron. Mouth freshener is fennel seeds.

Day ends with a glass of cumin and fennel water.

So am I not a spicy Indian.

These are the normal days , but ..if I have a tooth ache, I chew cloves or a garlic pod and the toothache is gone. If I feel tired or hurt I drink a glass of lukewarm milk with turmeric powder . If someone is having menstrual cramps , I suggest having a cup of ginger tea. If the stomach is not cleared the next morning I will chew curry leaves,  the list is endless. Indian households have so many jars of a variety of spices which are used as remedies for health problems.

Proud to be so spicy.

Fats and Oils are villainous. Really? ?

Fats and Oils are villainous. Really? ?

Your friend comes to meet you after a long time , Stares at you and says "Oh my God ! You have put on weight, you are looking fat !!" You start having sleepless nights, always checking the weighing machine, watching yourself in the mirror, start eating boiled foods , skipping meals , follow the health ads on TV ,buy fancy products, start exercising vigorously ,but do you really get lean ? Actually no, we become frustrated till the end of the week and again start eating junks to curb the frustration. It happens to most of us . These words pierce ourselves. The major step we take is to stop having fats completely .

But is the FAT the real villain ? Actually NO , there are many different ways to gain 'this weight' which we don't notice. Let's have a look at the Fats , Oils, the super villain Cholesterol and then decide whether fat is villainous or not .

First let's understand what is Fats and Oils?

Fats are made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen just like carbohydrates but they supply more energy than carbs because they contain proportionately more combustible carbon and hydrogen.

How many types of fats and oils do we consume daily?

=Margarine -

A cheap substitute for butter. Prepared from vegetable oil such as coconut oil, groundnut oil , soybean oil , the heated oil being churned with skim milk. Yellow colour is added to match the hue of butter. Used in making bakery products. Calorie wise the same as butter. It can be fortified with vitamins.

= Groundnut oil - Peanut oil or Arachis oil.

If the nuts are not properly stored it gets contaminated with Aspergillus flavus fungus. Consumption of oil from fungal infected nuts is a health hazard and it is advisable to avoid its use. Used as a cooking oil.

= Rapeseed -Mustard oil - 

used as a cooking oil and frying oil.

=Sesame or Gingelly oil - 

one of the oldest oilseeds of the world. Used in cooking or as a flavour enhancer.

=Cottonseed oil -

It's a byproduct of ginning cotton

=Coconut oil -

There is a message circulating in social media about the benefits of the oil. Basically circulated by "health gurus "is having adverse effects on health. Poor in unsaturated acids . More easily absorbed than any other oil.

=Sunflower oil - 

as a frying oil. Contains MUFA /PUFA mixture.

=Soybean oil - 

As a cooking oil

=Niger seed oil -

 rich in protein. Used as a food oil to cure many diseases. Can cause bleeding disorders and is not advisable for pregnant women.

= Rice bran oil - 

high smoking point , used for deep frying and cooking

= Palm oil- 

Good source of Vitamin A. Used as a cooking oil , not expensive so used in preparation of street foods.

= Corn oil - 

cooking oil and valuable frying oil. Used in margarine.

=Safflower oil - 

used as salad oil or cooking oil

=Olive oil -

The most favourite oil of this decade . It's NOT a "low fat oil." So consumption of fried foods with this oil is not a good choice.

=Canola oil- 

high smoking point so used for frying and cooking.

=Macadamia oil - 

for frying or as a salad oil.

=Avocado oil - 

used in some dishes and as a cooking oil.

= Hemp oil -

low smoke point. Not suitable for frying, used as a food oil and in supplements.

=Walnut oil -

Used for pan frying or as a salad dressing

=Butter - animal protein. 

Made from milk fats. Because of its pleasing flavour and good shortening qualities has for a long time been an important fat component in food preparation.

=Lard - 

animal fat from hogs. Low cost , flavourful substitute for butter in frying and baking.

=Hydrogenated oil - 

high smoking point. Good shortening powers. Used for frying.

 Confused !! which oil to use ?

The fat and calorie content of all the fats and oils are almost the same . It's unwise to think that if you are eating lots of fries with heart healthy oil , it would be a good idea. No it's not. 2 to 3 tsp of fats and oil are sufficient for our daily requirement. We always look into the visible oil in the food. We get the visible fat or free fats from eggs , cream , milk , butter , clarified butter , meat , fish, nuts , oilseeds, etc. But many of us don't know we consume invisible fat which is found in cell walls of cereals , pulses , tubers and vegetables.

But....

Fat is not a villain . We need fat in our daily lives. In colder countries fat requirement is more than in tropical countries.  15% to 30% of our calorie requirement is from fat.

♥️Fats provide an energy reserve. ♥️Fats serves as a vehicle for the absorption of fat soluble vitamins A , D , E , K

♥️ Fats supply essential fatty acids which are necessary for growth and function.

♥️If fats and carbs are used properly, protein will do its own work.

♥️ Fats help in producing a sense of satiety means we do not feel hungry.

Same with CHOLESTEROL

The adverse publicity has made it a villain which must be eliminated to avoid heart attack.

♠️Cholesterol is essential for life.

♠️ For the formation of cell membranes.

♠️Precursor of steroid hormones and bile salts.

♠️ Progesterone, possibly Estrogen and the Adrenal corticoids are derived from cholesterol.

♠️In the blood, cholesterol plays an important role in the transport of fatty acids.

"Please don't avoid fats . Instead, stop eating processed ,packaged and artificially flavoured foods . Eat a balanced diet rich in natural foods ".