ARTICLES ON Nutrition

Spices are known to catalyze your metabolic activity, and that’s why nutmeg works wonders for weight loss. Read on to know more. Of course, you can work out hard in the gym to lose that stubborn fat, but what if we tell you about a miracle spice that can accelerate weight loss? Yes, if quick and sustainable weight loss is on your mind, then it’s time to raid your kitchen for nutmeg aka jaiphal. Since time immemorial, nutmeg has been used for medicinal purposes. And when it comes to your gut, this spice is all you need to keep it in top shape. That means your digestion and metabolism will also be on track. Everything put together will lead to weight loss.  Amreen Shaikh, a dietitian and nutritionist from Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai, suggests that a little less than half a teaspoon or a pinch of nutmeg powder every alternate day can be your tonic for weight loss. 1. Nutmeg eliminates toxins from your body, and has digestive properties that can help in increasing metabolism, thereby helping with weight loss. 2. It is also known to suppress appetite, because it is rich in fibre. That means no more unwanted binge sessions, which are the real cause of weight gain. 3. Jaiphal helps in fat burn. Yes, this amazing spice contains some essential minerals, and one of them is manganese which helps to break down fats. 4. Nutmeg helps you sleep. Did you know, lack of proper sleep can also lead to weight gain? In case sleepless nights are a cause for trouble, then try nutmeg. “Nutmeg is great when it comes to the treatment of insomnia or sleeplessness in general. Sleeping better aids in weight loss. You can drink a glass of herbal tea with nutmeg powder to induce a good night’s sleep,” she suggests. 5. Nutmeg is a good antidote for stress. Stress is also a factor that needs to be kept in check if you want to lose weight. “Thanks to antioxidants present in nutmeg, it helps in the prevention of oxidative stress in cells. When cells are suffering from oxidative stress, it leads to obesity,” she explains. “Please keep a check on the quantity of nutmeg you are consuming, because you can only get all these benefits if you have it in moderation,” says Ms Shaikh. The bottom line Without a doubt, nutmeg is the ultimate wonder spice. Not just weight loss, but nutmeg also helps in dealing with disorders like diabetes, arthritis, etc. But if you are pregnant or allergic to it, then you should stay away from nutmeg. You can add nutmeg powder to soups, green teas, dal, etc, as consuming it as it is is not the best option. It’s pretty bitter to taste! So ladies, go nuts for nutmeg and give your weight loss regimen a little push. Source: https://www.healthshots.com/healthy-eating/superfoods/heres-how-you-can-use-nutmeg-for-weight-loss/

Last week, actor Mishti Mukherjee, who was in her mid-thirties, passed away in a Bengaluru-based hospital, owing to kidney failure. The actor, who had starred in several movies, was on a keto diet, which allegedly affected her kidney function. Although the keto diet is one of the most popular ones to have emerged in the past five years — with the likes of Kim Kardashian, Halle Berry and Gwyneth Paltrow, among other celebrities, trying it — Mukherjee’s sudden death highlights the need to understand the risk of following fad diets. What Is It?Dr Alifia S Bhol, clinical nutritionist, lifestyle therapist and founder of NutriAl online diet clinic, explains that the ketogenic or keto diet was originally developed as a measure to treat epilepsy patients in the 1920s. “It’s a low-carbohydrate, high-fat and controlled protein diet. It was not considered the best measure to treat epilepsy patients, but was used as other forms of medication weren’t working,” she shares, adding that following the diet leads to the formation of ketone bodies which help with seizures. Jinal Patel, senior executive dietitian at Apollo Spectra Hospital in Tardeo, says that the daily intake of carbs is reduced to less than 200 gm as per the diet, which leads to a metabolic state called ketosis. “Usually, the carbs act as fuel for the body. In the absence of adequate carbs, your body becomes efficient in burning its own fat as well as the fats you’re consuming for energy utilisation. Depending on your body metabolism rate, age and gender among other factors, you can end up losing four to five kg weight within 30 to 45 days,” she adds. Dr Bhol notes that the diet is one of the biggest weight loss trends in the past four to five years: “Because it consists of high-fat foods like butter and cheese, it’s very palatable. People love to hear that they can eat this kind of food to lose weight.” She tells us that typically, a 4:1 ratio is followed for fats and carbs. “In keto, for every 4 gm of fat, there is 1 gm of carbs. So, you have eggs, cheese, certain kinds of nuts, oils, high fat oil seeds, meat, high protein skimmed products, fish and seafood, and non-starchy, fibrous vegetables,” she elaborates. Effect On Health Dr Bhol points out that since keto diet is restrictive in nature, a lot of vegetables and fruits such as beans, carrots, sweet potato and bananas get left out of daily meals. “One is deprived of several nutrients and vitamins,” she says. Doctors also point out that the presence of hidden salts can affect kidney function. “Kidneys are your filtrates and regulate water, sodium and potassium balance in the body. The excessive presence of salt, harmful fats and increased protein, along with existing hypertension, can erode the walls of kidneys,” Patel tells us. Dr Chandan Chaudhari, nephrologist, Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, claims that taking on a keto diet to shed a few kilos without seeking clinical guidance can aggravate pre-existing kidney problems that one might not be aware of. “It can lead to high uric acid levels, inadequate hydration and acidification of urine, leading to kidney stones. Moreover, if you’re just looking it up on the Internet, chances are, you end up consuming excess of bad, saturated fats (for instance, fried meat), instead of polyunsaturated fats, which affects the lipid profile.” Dr Bhol asserts that although it has been beneficial for some diabetics, the diet can also spur off sluggish moods and constipation. All three experts observe that while the keto diet may be a quick way to knock off extra weight, it isn’t sustainable. “We don’t prescribe it unless you medically need it. There’s a big chance of a ‘yo-yo effect’, or gaining double the weight. If 2020 has taught us anything, it is that health is wealth. And one diet cannot apply to everyone. A diet has to be bespoke,” says Dr Bhol. Here are a few guidelines to bear in mind before you take on any kind of diet: Consult a dietician or nutritionist before you start. Get your urine sample, blood pressure, sodium-potassium levels and lipid profile checked. A health expert always seeks a body composition report to devise a meal plan; Googling for suitable diets can have dangerous repercussions as one size doesn’t fit all. Avoid keto diet if you have existing kidney issues, hypertension, and cardiac problems. A balanced, customized diet that includes a fair combination of all nutrients in controlled portions throughout the day is the way to go. You also have to work out daily to stay in shape and keep yourself healthy. Source: https://www.mid-day.com/articles/not-the-ke-to-good-health/23037228

Do you hit the sack immediately after your dinner? Failing to follow your proper dinner timings? Are you into midnight snacking? Then, you are doing it all wrong! The formula to stay fit and fine is to swear by a proper schedule and enhance the quality of life. Here, we list out a few dos and don’ts, keep reading! Delaying Dinner One of the most important things you need to follow is that you need to eat dinner on time. Studies suggest that people who delay their dinner are more likely to gain weight due to post-dinner cravings and bingeing. Thus, early dinner helps you maintain a healthy weight. Having late dinner and sleeping immediately also leads to weight loss. What You Eat For Dinner Matters It is important to eat a healthy meal for dinner rather than having fancy or junk food (It is observed that most of the people have fancy meals like pav bhaji, franky, sev puri, pani puri, sandwich, pizza, etc for dinner.) These dishes do not have the right nutrients which lead to nutrient deficiencies, which leads to post-dinner cravings. The meal should comprise a good combination of protein, fats, and fibre. This keeps an individual satiated and prevents post-dinner cravings. One’s metabolism is usually lower in the evening as compared to the day time. Hence, a low carbs, high proteins, high fiber, and moderate fats are recommended to maintain weight. This also helps in good bowel movement and maintains overall health. Lying Down Or Sleeping Immediately After Dinner This can cause weight gain and also acid reflux in many people. (One of the major reasons for acidity, bloating, and reflux disease.) This is observed in a lot of people these days. Hence, early dinner is recommended (at least two hours before you sleep/lie down). Some activity is recommended post-dinner (like strolling/walking for 15 minutes). Not Drinking Enough Water Drink enough water throughout the day. Two to three litres of water are recommended throughout the day. Avoid drinking carbonated beverages or sugary drinks with dinner which will add up to the daily calories and lead to weight gain. Post-Dinner Snacking Not eating healthy dinner and nutrient deficiency leads to post-dinner snacking/craving. Snacking on the wrong food causes weight gain. One should have healthy snacks in such cases. Healthy options like salads, fresh fruits, hummus with homemade crackers, nuts, and seeds are good options. Do not store unhealthy/junk food like chips, chocolates, frozen food, or packaged food at home to avoid consumption. Eat Healthy Food Throughout The Day Eating fewer calories in day time leads to cravings and binge eating. Hence, it is advised to eat a healthy and balanced meal throughout the day helps to prevent post-dinner cravings. Do not starve through the day. Instead of starving yourself, have a small, healthy meal/snack. Have a cup of green tea/green coffee, a fruit or a small bowl of fruit salad, or coconut water or soup or buttermilk. This will prevent you from feeling extremely hungry at night. Eat Dinner Without Distraction It is advised to have dinner in a peaceful environment, without any distractions, no phone, and television. Eating peacefully and with the family will help you enjoy your meal and avoid any kind of snacking later. Sleep On Time Sleep deprivation leads to weight gain. When you sleep, your body recharges and rejuvenates the muscles, bones, and brain. Going to bed within 2-3 hours of having your dinner will prevent you from binging on junk food. Studies have shown that not getting enough sleep can lead to weight gain or decrease the weight loss process, if one is on a diet. This also leads to nutrient deficiencies as the absorption is affected. They say ‘health is wealth,’ true that! Staying fit and fine will require effort. You will have to exercise, eat the right kind of food, and follow a proper sleep schedule. This will help you add years to your life. Hence, it is the need of the hour to embrace a healthy lifestyle and stay in top shape. Know what you must do to stay healthy.

Paneer, a type of Indian cheese, is a delight for every vegetarian. What’s more, it is high in nutritive value with its rich content of calcium and protein. Paneer provides instant energy to the body, and aids in various bodily functions. That’s why it should be part of your daily diet and even more so if you are a vegetarian since it’s a major source of protein. Moreover, it is rich in selenium and potassium which can work wonders for your mental as well as physical health. You see, potassium helps in curbing memory loss and selenium helps with infertility issues. Paneer is also a rich source of calcium that helps in strengthening the teeth and bones.  We talked to Amreen Shaikh, head dietician and nutritionist at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai, and she explained the importance of paneer in the diet of a vegetarian:Paneer is damn tasty, but it is even healthier. Image courtesy: Shutterstock. “As a source of protein, paneer has to be a part of your daily diet. But that doesn’t mean you consume it in any form. Make sure you try to eat healthy dishes such as scrambled paneer, paneer tikka, or any form of pan-fried paneer instead of  paneer butter masala or shahi paneer if your aim is to lose weight or gain muscle mass.” She said: “You can consume paneer in small portions throughout the day without having to worry about gaining weight. Its low level of lactose makes it bearable for some lactose-intolerant people as well, even though not all of them.” Let’s take a look at some nutrition facts about paneer Every 100 grams of paneer contains 265 calories, 20.8 grams of fat, 1.2 grams of total carbohydrate. 18.3 grams of protein and 208 mg of calcium.  People who undergo weight training in the gym need to consume large amounts of protein. Since paneer is loaded with protein, it makes for a great source of protein and the good part is that it also keeps hunger at bay.  People who end up eating too frequently benefit from paneer since it curbs the cravings by making you feel full for a long period of time. What are the benefits of eating paneer? 1. Builds strong teeth and bonesPaneer is loaded with calcium that helps in building strong teeth, bones, and muscles. Paneer keeps gum decay at bay. It also prevents tooth cavities since the level of lactose in paneer is really low. 2. Improves body’s metabolismPaneer releases the much-needed calories which provide the consumer with instant energy. It also helps in improving body metabolism as the insulin remains under control. With greater body metabolism, digestion also improves and doesn’t allow the fat to settle in the body. Paneer is a great source of linoleic acid that helps in burning body fat. 3. Reduces body and joint painPaneer contains omega-three and omega-six fatty acids which help in combating arthritis and hence, benefits those suffering from joint pain. The presence of omega-three can also prove to be beneficial for pregnant women as it reduces the chances of stillbirth and disorders. For vegetarians, paneer is the major source of omega-three and six in the body. 4. Prevents strokePotassium content in paneer keeps the blood pressure from fluctuating and helps reduce the risk of stroke. Stroke is caused when there is a high flow of blood to the brain. It also retains fluids that prevent muscle cramps. This benefits sportspersons who always need high fluid intake. 5. Improves immune systemIt improves the haemoglobin content in the body and is very useful for kids as those are the years when they develop an immune system. 6. Improves skinThe presence of selenium helps the person to get glowing skin. So, try adding paneer to your daily diet to get a glowing skin without subjecting it to chemicals.So, ladies, here are all the wonderful reasons to convince you that you need paneer on your plate every single day to be healthy.

Eating the Right foods for a healthy heart will only show its benefits if consumed at the right time. An average human being consumes food for 16-17 hours a day. Our intestines need to ‘sleep’. If we continue eating, all that food just piles up,” Dr Ravi Gupta, Cardiologist, Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Healthy diet must be eaten in accordance with the Circadian rhythm to  enhance  its nutritional benefit. The circadian rhythm is our internal body clock that guides us towards the ‘right’ time for eating, sleeping and exercising.  There SAY Timing is everything:  Simply put, eat the most when the sun is up and stop when it sets. “Only when a heart-friendly diet is integrated within this paradigm, is it able to support cardiovascular well-being,” says Dr Ravi Gupta, Cardiologist, Wockhardt Hospital, South Bombay. How to establish a good circadian rhythm (body clock) for good health: 1)For your circadian diet to bear fruit, one needs to sleep on time. Too much of exposure of electronic devices can upset your sleep stages, digestion and hormone function. Avoid too much of electronic devices stimulation before going to bed. 2) Reduce amount of caffeine intake before bedtime. 3) Reverse the calories by sundown; all kinds of food should be avoided. 4) Proper exercise can have a significant circadian phase-shifting effect and affect the sleep and wake schedule in human improving our bodily function and overall health. Conclusion: Contrary to popular belief, the circadian diet is not limited to heart patients. It’s for everybody. This is a lifestyle diet with a set of rules and recommendations that looks at the heart and its function with the natural rhythms of the sun. A synchronised way of eating has long-term health benefits across all  age demographics. 

Coconut water is made from the clear liquid inside of green coconuts. Over 95 percent of coconut water is water.In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, coconut water is believed to help digestion, urination, and even semen production. It has also traditionally been used to treat dehydration and given as ceremonial gifts throughout the tropics. It has many health benefits and is a natural detoxifier and best known hydrant other than water. 1. Natural sports drink Coconut water’s natural electrolytes make it a solid match for traditional sports drinks .Made without added sugar, food coloring, or artificial sweeteners, many people reach for coconut water as a more natural performance drink. 2. Low in calories With only 45 calories in a cup, coconut water is a great substitute for higher calorie drinks like sodas or juice, according to research. Coconut water has less sugar and carbohydrates than most juices. It also has more minerals and electrolytes like sodium and potassium. 3. Potassium Coconut water has more than 10 times the amount of potassium of most sports drinks. An 8-ounce glass of coconut water is packed with as much potassium as a banana.. Potassium helps keep fluid and electrolyte balance in the body, especially during exercise and lower blood pressure. 4. Calcium and magnesium Calcium is vital for more than just strong bones and teeth. It helps muscles contract and work properly. As you exercise, your muscles pull on your bones and break them down slightly. Magnesium helps to move calcium and potassium into muscles to aid in contraction and relaxation. It also helps with energy production and supports organ function. Coconut contains both. 5. Antioxidants In addition to all of its hydrating benefits, coconut water contains antioxidants that help to neutralize oxidative stress and free radicals created by exercise. 6. Amino acids Coconut water contains more protein building blocks  than cow’s milk. It’s a major source of arginine, an amino acid that helps your body respond to stress (like the stress caused by a difficult workout). Arginine may also help keep the heart healthy. 7. Cytokinins The hormones that help plants grow, also known as cytokinins, are also found in coconut water. These compounds are believed to have antiaging and cancer-fighting properties Coconut water can be a great way to rehydrate after a hard, sweaty workout. It also has other properties which make it a very healthy drink and helps to build immunity.

Eating certain foods really help keep bad moods at bay. The scientific community still has much to learn about how our diet influences our moods. Dietary changes bring about changes in our brain structure, chemistry, and physiology, which lead to changes in behaviour and our mood. So here are some theories  based on research on different food types that affect  out mood which we can include in our diet. Fatty fish like salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids,  may lower your risk of depression.  A good source of this nutrient is ground flaxseed. Other sources include canola oil, purslane (an herb), cauliflower, red kidney beans, and beans. Certain nuts and seeds are high in tryptophan, zinc, and selenium, which may support brain function and can reduce bad mood swings. 3) Dark chocolate is rich in compounds that may increase feel-good chemicals in your brain enhancing your mood. 4) Fruits like Bananas are a great source of natural sugar, vitamin B6, and prebiotic fiber, which work together to keep your blood sugar levels and acts as mood stabliser. Berries are rich in disease-fighting anthocyanins, which may lower your risk of depression too. 5) Oats provide fibre that can stabilize your blood sugar levels and boost your mood. They’re also high in iron, which may improve mood symptoms in those with iron deficiency anaemia. 6) Coffee provides numerous compounds, including caffeine and chlorogenic acid, that may boost your mood. 7) Beans and lentils are rich sources of mood-boosting nutrients, particularly B vitamins It is quiet common that when you feel down you may crave calorie-rich, high sugar foods like ice cream or cookies to try to lift your spirits. Remember that a sugar rush   in the long term may have negative consequences as well. Instead   aim for wholesome foods that have been shown to not only boost your mood but also your overall health.

National Nutrition Week is celebrated each year from 1st September to the 7th September to aware the people about important tips of their health and well-being. The role of your diet in life plays the most important role in promotion of health and wellbeing of a human being. A good and balanced diet habit improves the quality of life, as poor diet might cause morbidity and illnesses.” “It is about getting enough all of the right foods in the calories allotted plus minimizing the processed foods that are over-consumed. In our super busy worlds where high-calorie, palatable foods are both convenient and abundant, nutrition for most consumers should be more about making good food choices rather than worrying about being vitamin deficient.”…Therefore EAT RIGHT. People must be aware be aware of their food groups and balanced diet from which they can get good nutritious things. A healthy should include the whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fat-free milk or milk products, meats, fish, nuts, seeds and etc. At Wockhardt hospital out diet and nutrition department play a vital role in the providing nutritional care to patients in various disease states and conditions. Our Weight Loss Program: At Wockhardt Hospital our Endocrinology department, Diabetes and Weight Management Centre at Wockhardt Hospital treat various endocrine disorders .The division has an integrated multi-disciplinary model for providing comprehensive management of the entire range of endocrine conditions. Wockhardt Hospital also has unique weight management centre. Together with India’s only physician certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine, our centre focuses on medical management of overweight and obesity conditions. We have a multidisciplinary team consisting of physicians, dieticians, counsellors and exercise physiologists. The protocol delivers an international evidence-based management for safe and effective weight loss. The program also works in close collaboration with surgical approaches for weight management for those patients that need it, as the Hospital is also a Centre of Excellence for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery To know about how you can improve your diet and understand its supportive role in treating various conditions, please contact Wockhardt Hospital.

Doctors say that something as simple as eating more fruits and vegetables can increase your immunity. “Including nutrient-rich foods, getting exercise and being mindful of hygiene practices can do a lot of good to your immune system and, thus, prevent infectious diseases during the summer months” Some diseases are more prominent in certain seasons than others. While winter brings a slew of diseases like cold and cough, with summer comes a host of health problems like headache, flu, gastrointestinal diseases, and jaundice and skin rashes. The immune system is the most important factor in the body to avoid any kind of disease. Change in weather during summer leads to a shift in temperature that leads to the growth of certain viruses and bacteria. Your immune system gets low during stress s, poor diet, inadequate sleep, obesity, lack of physical activity and neglecting protein-rich food. Here are some other diet tips to stay healthy this summer: Other items include nuts, dairy products, sprouts and fish. For more information on your diet and immunity tips please contact Wockhardt Hospital.