7 simple dietary changes to improve your health

Moneycontrol News December 6, 2023

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Chew your food properly

Eating too quickly can have negative outcomes. Chewing food slowly and mindfully allows for better digestion. This can lead to reduced bloating and gas. 

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Choose atta bread instead of maida

Whole wheat bread (atta bread) contains higher levels of nutrients like fiber, B vitamins, minerals (like magnesium, zinc, and iron), and antioxidants. On the other hand, refined grains, such as those found in white bread, have lower nutritional benefits.

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Read the ingredients list

VIn India, ingredients on packaged food items are listed by decreasing order of weight. So if the first ingredient on your packet of ‘health’ drink is sugar, or if your biscuits contain palm oil, you can make an informed decision about whether you want to buy it. 

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Increase your protein intake

Indian food is typically heavy on carbohydrates and as a result, many Indians have a protein deficiency. Protein is an essential macronutrient crucial for various bodily functions, so include more eggs, paneer, lean meats, dal and protein-rich foods in your diet.

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Add curd to your diet

Curd contains live cultures of beneficial bacteria. These probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, aid digestion, and support a strong immune system.

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Eat fruits instead of juicing them

Fruits are a rich source of nutrients, minerals and fibres. However, fruit juices, even the ones squeezed at home, remove beneficial fibre from the fruit and can be high in natural sugars. Due to the concentration of sugars and the absence of fiber, fruit juice can be caloric dense.

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Cut down on sugar

If you can’t cut out sugar from your daily cup of tea or coffee completely, start by reducing the quantity. Go from one teaspoon to half a teaspoon and gradually reduce the amount of sugar you consume. 

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