SARA NUTRITION

நீரிழிவு மேலாண்மைக்கான சிறந்த இந்திய உணவுகள்       நீரிழிவு நோயை நிர்வகிப்பது பெரும்பாலும் அதிக மனஅழுத்தத்தை ஏற்படுத்தலாம். குறிப்பாக முரண்பட்ட உணவு ஆலோசனைகளின் பயனாக உண்டாகலாம்.  பல நூற்றாண்டுகளாக, இந்திய உணவுகளில் இயற்கையாகவே இரத்த சர்க்கரை கட்டுப்பாட்டை ஆதரிக்கும் சக்திவாய்ந்த பொருட்கள் நிறைந்துள்ளன. இந்த உலக நீரிழிவு தினத்தில், "தடைகளை உடைத்தல், இடைவெளிகளைக் குறைத்தல்" என்ற கருப்பொருளுடன், சில எளிய, பாரம்பரிய இந்திய உணவுகள்  எவ்வாறு நீரிழிவு நோயைக் கட்டுப்படுத்தவும் தடுக்கவும் உதவும் என்பதை காண்போம். வெந்தயம்      வெந்தய விதைகள் சிறியவை, ஆனால் நீரிழிவு மேலாண்மையில் சிறந்தவை.  எளிதில் ஜீரணம் ஆகக்கூடிய  நார்ச்சத்து நிறைந்த, வெந்தயம் கார்போஹைட்ரேட் உறிஞ்சுதலை மெதுவாக்குகிறது மற்றும் இன்சுலின் உணர்திறனை மேம்படுத்துகிறது. வெந்தயத்தை உங்கள் உணவில் சேர்ப்பது எப்படி: ஊறவைத்த விதைகள்: 1 டேபிள் ஸ்பூன் வெந்தய விதைகளை இரவு முழுவதும் ஊறவைத்து, காலையில் வெறும் வயிற்றில் சாப்பிட்டு வந்தால், இரத்தத்தில் சர்க்கரையின் அளவு சீராக  இருக்கும்....

Diabetes Myths Busted: Unpacking Common Misconceptions      Living with diabetes can feel challenging, especially when you’re constantly bombarded with conflicting advice. While some dietary suggestions are helpful, many are based on myths that can cause unnecessary stress and confusion. This World Diabetes Day, let’s break down some of these misconceptions with science-backed facts. It's time to debunk common myths and empower you to make informed food choices, especially within the context of traditional Indian cuisine. Myth #1: “Diabetics Can’t Eat Fruits” The Truth: Fruits are a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. While fruits do contain natural sugars, the fiber content slows down their absorption, preventing sudden blood sugar spikes. Science-backed Facts: Studies show that eating whole fruits like apples, guava, and berries can actually help improve insulin sensitivity. The glycemic index (GI) o...

Bridging Gaps in Nutrition: How to Build a Diabetes-Friendly Plate      When it comes to managing diabetes, one of the most powerful tools you can use is right on your dining table. The key is to create balanced meals that nourish your body while keeping your blood sugar levels stable. This World Diabetes Day, with the theme "Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps," let's dive into how we can bridge the gaps in nutrition by learning to build a diabetes-friendly plate using everyday Indian ingredients. The Power of a Balanced Plate      Creating a balanced plate is one of the simplest and most effective strategies for managing diabetes. The idea is to fill your plate with foods that provide a steady release of energy, keep you full for longer, and help prevent those unwanted blood sugar spikes. The Diabetes Plate Method:   Imagine your plate divided into three sections: Half of the Plate: Non-starchy vegetables (fiber-rich) One-Quarter of the Plate: Lea...

Breaking Barriers with Food: Top Indian Superfoods for Diabetes Management      Managing diabetes can often feel overwhelming, especially with the surge of conflicting dietary advice out there. But what if we turned to our traditional Indian kitchen for answers? For centuries, Indian cuisine has been rich in powerful ingredients that naturally support blood sugar control. On this World Diabetes Day, with the theme "Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps," let's explore how some simple, traditional Indian superfoods can help manage and even prevent diabetes. Fenugreek (Methi)      Fenugreek seeds are tiny, yet mighty when it comes to diabetes management. Rich in soluble fiber, fenugreek slows down carbohydrate absorption and improves insulin sensitivity. How to Include Fenugreek in Your Diet: Soaked Seeds: Soak 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds overnight and eat them on an empty stomach in the morning for better blood sugar control. Sprouts: Add fenugreek sprouts ...

 Monsoon Nutrition: Boosting Immunity with Seasonal Foods      The monsoon season in India brings relief from the scorching summer heat, but it also increases susceptibility to infections due to fluctuating weather, humidity, and waterborne diseases. To stay healthy during this season, it’s essential to support your immune system with the right nutrition. Consuming fresh, seasonal foods is one of the best ways to boost immunity and keep infections at bay. Here’s a guide to the top immunity-boosting seasonal foods that can enhance your diet during the monsoon. Turmeric and Ginger: Natural Immunity Boosters      Turmeric and ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric, rich in curcumin, helps boost immunity and fight infections, while ginger improves digestion and soothes a sore throat, common during the rainy season. Start your day with a cup of turmeric milk or ginger tea to keep your immunity strong. Bitter Gourd ...

 Iodine: The Missing Nutrient in Your Diet? Simple Ways to Prevent Iodine Deficiency What is Iodine Deficiency?      Iodine is a vital nutrient that your body needs but cannot produce on its own. It plays a crucial role in thyroid health and overall well-being, yet iodine deficiency is a growing health concern globally. Despite being easy to prevent, many people—especially in regions with limited access to iodine-rich foods—remain deficient. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of iodine deficiency and provide practical tips on how to incorporate iodine into your daily diet. Why Iodine is Essential      Iodine is most commonly associated with thyroid function. It is a key component in the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, energy levels, and body temperature. But iodine’s role goes beyond the thyroid. It is essential for brain development, particularly in infants and children, making it a critical nutrient for pre...

Strengthen Your Bones: Top Nutritional Tips for World Osteoporosis Day 2024      World Osteoporosis Day, observed every year on October 20th, focuses on raising awareness about the importance of bone health. This year's theme, "Say No to Fragile Bones," emphasizes the need to protect our bones from becoming weak and brittle. Osteoporosis, often called the "silent disease," affects millions worldwide, causing fractures and impairing mobility, especially in older adults. However, with the right nutrition and lifestyle choices, we can strengthen our bones and ensure they remain healthy throughout our lives. Importance of Bone Health:      Bone health is crucial for overall well-being and longevity. Fragile bones, especially as we age, can lead to osteoporosis—a condition where bones become porous and weak. This increases the risk of fractures, particularly in the spine, hips, and wrists. For older adults, even a minor fall can result in serious injury. That’s ...

  World Food Day 2024:  Right to Foods for a Better Life and  a Better Future      World Food Day 2024 brings into focus a global mission—the “Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future.” As a dietician, I believe that ensuring food security isn't just about accessibility but also about making informed, nutritious choices that support overall health. The FAO's mission is vital in reminding us that everyone deserves access to nutritious, safe, and sustainable food, and we can all play a role in making this a reality. What is Food Security?      Food security means having consistent access to enough safe and nutritious food to maintain a healthy lifestyle. But it’s more than just about having food; it’s about having the right food—balanced, nutrient-rich, and culturally appropriate. As dieticians, it is our role to educate people on how to make the best choices with the food they have access to. The Role of Nutrition in Food Security...

Moving the Needle on Infection Prevention:  Top Foods and Strategies to Strengthen Your Immunity      In a world where infections can spread rapidly, taking steps to protect ourselves is more important than ever. International Infection Prevention Week (IIPW) 2024, with the theme "Moving the Needle on Infection Prevention," focuses on raising awareness about the importance of infection prevention. While hygiene practices and medical advancements play a key role, our diet and lifestyle are powerful tools that can strengthen our body’s defenses against infections. In this blog, we will explore how a well-balanced diet and a few lifestyle changes can help boost your immune system and protect you from common infections. The Role of Nutrition in Infection Prevention:      Our immune system acts as the body’s first line of defense against harmful pathogens. To function optimally, it requires the right fuel—nutrients that support immune function, promote heal...

  Top 5 Nutrients to Prevent Arthritis and Improve Joint Function      Arthritis, a condition characterized by joint pain and inflammation, affects millions worldwide. While medications and physical therapy play a crucial role in managing symptoms, nutrition can be a powerful ally in the fight against arthritis. Including the right nutrients in your diet can not only reduce inflammation but also help improve joint function and overall mobility.      In this blog, we’ll explore five key nutrients that can prevent arthritis and support joint health. Plus, we’ll share how to incorporate these nutrients into daily meals, focusing on South Indian foods for practical application. Omega-3 Fatty Acids      Omega-3 fatty acids are well-known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them a top nutrient for arthritis prevention. These healthy fats help reduce joint inflammation, stiffness, and pain, especially in people with rheumatoid arth...

World Arthritis Day 2024: How Informed Food Choices Can Lead to Better Joint Health      Every year on October 12th, World Arthritis Day serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by millions of people worldwide living with arthritis. This year, the theme is "Informed Choices, Better Outcomes"—a message that emphasizes the importance of being educated about arthritis and making choices that can positively impact long-term health.       While many factors contribute to arthritis, one of the most effective ways to manage symptoms and improve joint health is through informed food choices. The connection between diet and inflammation has been widely studied, and the right foods can significantly reduce inflammation and ease arthritis symptoms. Let’s explore how certain foods can protect your joints and how small dietary changes can make a big difference in your arthritis journey. The Role of Diet in Joint Health and Inflammation    ...