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Weight Loss Tips
Categories Everything

Weight Loss Tips For Pcos

PCOS or polycystic ovarian syndrome is referred to a condition in which cysts develop on the ovaries. Between 4-20% of women in their reproductive phase of life may suffer from this condition. This condition is characterised by hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, inflammation, etc. All these together can make weight loss difficult, especially for those women who also have thyroid disorders. PCOS is also the leading cause of infertility in women.

Following are some tips for losing weight with PCOS:

  1. Reducing carbohydrate intake

PCOS is often associated with insulin resistance (35% to 80% cases). In insulin resistance, the cells of the body are unable to absorb glucose from blood in normal amounts, leading to high blood sugar levels. This in turn can lead to higher conversion of sugar to fat in the body and weight gain. Reducing simple carbohydrates intake can directly lead to lowering of insulin levels, thereby reducing carb conversion to fat. At the same time, consuming a low GI (glycemic index) diet reduces insulin resistance and fat storage around the belly area.

  1. Increase protein intake

Protein intake has been shown to improve blood sugar management by giving a feeling of fullness for longer. In addition, it also helps in losing weight. But remember that total protein intake should not exceed more than 40% of total calorie intake, as very high intakes can cause increased stress on the kidneys.

  1. Include nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds are powerhouses of healthy fats, vitamins and minerals like omega 3 fatty acids, zinc, iron, selenium, etc. Seeds like pumpkin, sesame, flax and sunflower have been shown to bring about a balance between the reproductive hormones.

  1. Reduce sugar consumption

Refined sugar, jaggery, honey all are high calorie foods with high glycemic indices and thus should be avoided. Added sugars also increase weight and insulin resistance. Research also shows that women with PCOS have higher blood sugar spikes on ingestion of sugar as compared to women without PCOS.

  1. Get physically active

Exercise has been shown to help at multiple levels; be it weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, better hormonal health, etc. Therefore it is important to invest at least 30-40 minutes daily for exercise.

  1. Get adequate sleep

Inadequate sleep increases levels of hormones like cortisol and ghrelin, that increase the feeling of hunger. It also leads to increased inflammation in the body. Our bodies carry out repair of damaged muscles and detoxification while we are asleep. Thus getting enough sleep is an important part of not just your weight loss, but also your health journey.

If you have PCOS and would like to lose weight, or improve your fertility, and are looking for help in planning and meal prep ideas, contact Kanupriya Khanna, one of the best Dietitian and Nutritionist in Delhi.

Diet & Lifestyle Tips
Categories best Dietitians and Nutritionists in Delhi

Diet & Lifestyle Tips To Reverse Fatty Liver

The liver is one of the main organs of our body. It carries out very important functions like:

  • Protein synthesis
  • Detoxification
  • Storage of glycogen, vitamins and minerals needed for various functions in the body
  • Bile production and secretion that plays a major role in cholesterol metabolism

Fatty liver is also known as hepatic steatosis. In this condition excessive fat gets deposited in the liver which affects its function. A number of reasons can lead to this: excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, obesity, uncontrolled diabetes, bad dietary and lifestyle habits.

It is important to treat any kind of liver disease, otherwise it can lead to life threatening consequences. A few simple changes can ensure that your liver gets back to its best health.

1. Give up alcohol

Each time you drink alcohol and it enters the liver, some of the cells die. Prolonged alcohol intake in high quantities can damamge the ability of the liver to regenerate and repair itself.

This ultimately leads to permanent liver damage.

2. Include healthy fats

Healthy fats from oily fish, avocados, olive oil are all rich in omega 3s. these fats reduce the amount of fat deposits in the liver, boost your HDL or good cholesterol levels and decrease your triglyceride levels. All of these combined, help your liver heal.

3. Include antioxidant rich foods

Antioxidant rich foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables, blue and purple coloured fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds.

Antioxidants reduce the inflammation and oxidative stress while improvin insulin resistance. Research has shown that people with liver disease who eat antioxidant rich foods daily have better liver markers over time than those who don’t.

4. Foods to be avoided

When suffering from fatty liver disease, one must avid the following:

  • Sugar: this increases the blood sugar levels which in turn increases the fatty build up in the liver.
  • Fried foods: these are high in fat and calories
  • Added salt: this is true especially for people with hypertension. Too much salt can make fatty liver worse.
  • Refined flours: they lack fibre and have a high glycemic index thereby can worsen fatty liver
  • Red meat: these are high in saturated fats and thus detrimental for liver health

5. Exercise

Getting physically active along with dietary changes will help in losing weight, lowering your lipids and better blood sugar levels. All of these together will help in healing your liver.

6. Manage insulin resistance or diabetes and lower your cholesterol

Uncontrolled diabetes and high triglyceride levels, increase the fat deposits in the liver which worsens an already troubled organ. activity along with dietary changes will help manage diabetes thereby in healing the liver.

To know more or if you need further help, get in touch with me, Kanupriya Khanna, one of the best Dietitians and Nutritionists in Delhi.

Child Nutritionist and Dietician in Delhi
Categories Children Diet

How Healthy Are ‘Health Powders’ We Add To Our Children’S Milk?

All food that we eat, whether fresh or processed, contains sugar in one form or the other. It could be natural sugar that is present in fruits and vegetables, or processed sugars that are added to processed or packaged foods.

According to pediatricians, endocrinologists and nutritionists; children get enough sugar from the natural foods that they eat, i.e from grains, pulses, fruits, vegetables, etc. Feeding our children processed foods like health powders, that contain processed sugars, puts an additional burden on their systems. Not just that, these so-called fortified foods when fed to children at a young age, makes them crave sugar throughout their lives in varying quantities.

The marketing campaigns that surround these powders are so glamorous and inviting, but more importantly, to the innocent eye they can lead to one or more of the following emotions or concerns:

  1. if these powders are not given to children, their growth will be hampered
  2. if the child is lagging behind in their growth, giving these powders will help them catch up faster
  3. these powders will ensure that the child is free from various nutritional deficiencies
  4. vegetarian or vegan parents feel these powders are necessary to meet the protein needs of their children
  5. enhancing the taste of the milk by adding these powders will encourage the child to drink milk easily

There are a number of reasons why these so called ‘health powders’ are not healthy and should not be given to children:

  1. the amount of added sugar they contain
  2. they may contain addedflavours
  3. some might food colours that can be detrimental to health, especially if your child is prone to allergies
  4. they are fortified with multiple minerals and vitamins: some of these should not be consumed together simply because they interfere with each other’s absorption. For e.g the same enzyme is responsible for the absorption of Iron, calcium and zinc. So if these are taken together, the amount that will be absorbed of each mineral will be minimal or negligible
  5. they lead to a huge spike in insulin levels
  6. They lack fibre

Increased consumption of these ‘health powders’, coupled with more sedentary lifestyles of the children today, increases their chances of become overweight and having other lifestyle diseases in later life.

With India soon heading towards becoming the diabetic capital of the world, it becomes important for us as a population to arrest the problem at our end, sooner rather than later.

We as consumers need to become aware and smart today. Get into the habit of reading the list of ingredients and nutritional labels that are mandatory on every packaged food that you buy. Look at not just the calories or sugar content of the product, but also at the carbohydrate content, sodium content, etc.

Our children are our future, and we want them to be healthy and happy individuals that will be at the forefront of a healthy and happy nation.

To know more or if you need further help with your child’s nutritional needs or concerns, get in touch with me, Kanupriya Khanna, one of the best Dietitians and Nutritionists in Delhi.

healthy eating habits for children
Categories best Dietitians and Nutritionists in Delhi

How to encourage healthy eating habits for your children during holidays

Vacations are synonymous with celebrating the freedom from school and a disciplined routine. Children look forward to holiday travels, visiting relatives and generally having a good time. It can thus be a challenge to ensure that they are eating healthy at the same time.

A few options can ensure that your children inculcate healthy eating habits during the holidays.

1. Involve your children in buying and prepping

Children love playing adults and respond well when given certain duties and responsibilities. Take them along and let them choose groceries with you. Let them participate in meal planning and then meal prepping or cooking, depending on age appropriateness. Children will automatically want to eat a dish that they have been involved in; it’s the simplest way to teach them to eat healthy.

 2. Mealtimes should be friendly and calm

Whenever trying to introduce anything new to children, remember to never create a sense of urgency to it. children adapt better when they know that the parent will not get upset with them, there is no retribution involved, and that they can express their true feelings be it likes or dislikes. They need to feel that you trust and respect their feelings and do not make light of them.

Mealtimes should also not be about lecturing them or teaching them life lessons or reprimanding them. It should be a time that is stress free and a time to bond as a family.

3. Avoid strict restrictions on favourite foods

 Holidays are a special time for everyone, including the children. They look forward to having a leisurely time, indulging in their favourite activities and foods, and generally expecting that they will be allowed forbidden foods once in a while. It is very important to think about their mental health and the feel good factor that some so called junk or unhealthy foods bring with them. Once in a while it is alright for them to eat these foods. This is especially true of birthday parties and other get-togethers that they will attend.

4. Stick to the same routine

 As far as possible try not to change their routine too drastically during the holidays. Children are happier and more secure when they follow a routine over a long period of time.

5. Plate up food in a fun way

For younger children and toddlers, plating up their less favourite fruit or vegetable in a fun way can encourage them to try it. Do not pressurize them into finishing it if they don’t like it, trying is a great start. Offer it to them again at a later day without creating too much fuss or giving it too much importance. You can also add their favourite food to the same plate in a creative way so it becomes a part of the food that you want your child to eat. For eg: if your child loves carrot but does not like broccoli, then make a carrot and hummus dip in which they can dip their broccoli cutlets. Remember to be calm and friendly at all times.

6. Be a role model

It is rightfully said that kids are a reflection of their parents. Kids always look upto their parents when young and imitate them. Make sure that you follow the basic rules of healthy eating yourself before you try to teach your children:

  • Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, etc. and stay away from fast foods
  • Eat at regular intervals
  • Eat slowly
  • While eating be happy and calm
  • Take small portions. Once you finish them, take extra helpings I needed
  • Do not leave unfinished food on your plate

I hope the above helps you and your children in having a fun filled holiday. To know more or if you need further help with recipe suggestions, etc., get in touch with me, Kanupriya Khanna, one of the best Dietitians and Nutritionists in Delhi.

plant-based-diets
Categories Other nutrition blog

Nutritional Adequacy of Plant Based Diets – Dr. Kanupriya Khanna

You must have heard a lot about veganism these days. Many people wonder if plant based diets are nutritionally adequate for them. Truth is that the nutrients present in plants, such as vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, antioxidants, etc., help in keeping you healthy.

But before going further, let’s understand a few things about a plant-based diet.

 

What is a plant based diets?

These diets emphasise on fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and beans while eliminating animal products such as meats, dairy, honey and eggs, and all foods that are derived from an animal source.

A plant-based diet is not only a preferred way to promote good health while staying fit and nourished, it is also a healthier way to lose weight. As plants contain necessary nutrients that animal products do not, it boosts your immune system.

 

Knowing what nutrients to be aware of and how to incorporate them into your diet is a crucial component of a well-planned plant based diets.

•Protein – Most vegans consume enough protein to satisfy or even surpass their needs. To achieve your protein requirements, concentrate on including protein-rich foods like legumes, nuts, seeds, and soy in your meals and snacks throughout the day.

•Calcium – There are many plant-based sources of calcium, including kale, broccoli, black beans, almonds, nut and seed butters. Calcium is added to some fortified foods during manufacturing, such as non-dairy milk, orange juice, and some breakfast cereals.

•Iron – This necessary ingredient is important for a variety of bodily processes, including the transportation of oxygen by red blood cells. Iron is found in many plant based such as dates, dried figs, prunes, dark green leafy vegetables, jaggery, beans, finger millet, etc.

•B12 – Plant foods typically do not contain this vitamin. Vegans must add items enriched with vitamin B-12 to their diets or consult their doctor about taking a supplement. Foods like nutritional yeast, morning cereals, meat substitutes, and non-dairy milk are among those enriched with vitamin B-12. To ensure the product is fortified, make sure to check the label!

•Omega 3 – Omega-3 fatty acids are thought to be vital since your body cannot produce them; therefore, you must obtain them from foods such as flaxseeds, walnuts and other nuts and seeds.

•Fibre – Plant based diets high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes are much more likely to easily provide the quantity and kind of fibre required by your body to maintain a healthy digestive system.

 

What are the health benefits of plant based diets?

1. It lowers your blood pressure –

Hypertension can make people more susceptible to health problems like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Fortunately, what you eat can influence your health. Following a plant-based diet helps lower blood pressure, which lowers your risk of developing these illnesses.

2. Weight loss –

When you go from a diet high in meat to one high in plant-based foods, your risk of obesity declines. In conclusion, even though losing weight isn’t always the main goal, plant eaters typically weigh less.

3. Plant based diets prevent cancer –

Eating a diet high in vegetables, fruit, grains, beans, nuts and seeds is the greatest method to obtain nutrients that protect against cancer, including fibre, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytochemicals.

4. It reduces cholesterol –

Fatty deposits in the blood caused by high cholesterol can limit blood flow and could result in heart attack, stroke, or heart disease. However, a balanced diet can support maintaining good cholesterol levels. In particular, switching to a diet high in plants instead of animal products can reduce LDL cholesterol by 10 and 15%.

5. It makes your brain strong –

Polyphenols are abundant in fruits and vegetables (aka, the cornerstones of a plant-based diet). They may help reverse cognitive decline and halt the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

 

How following a plant-based diet can benefit the environment?

The carbon emissions produced by the meat and dairy industries can be considerably reduced and offset by choosing to adopt a plant-based diet.

Additionally, compared to the meat and dairy industries, the plant business uses less water. To make one pound of tofu, only 302 litres of water are needed as opposed to 3505 litres of water to produce one pound of mutton. Untouched environments can be protected, and less water pollution and use would result from eating plant-based foods.

It was discovered that plant-based diets may increase the world food supply by up to 49% without extending croplands. This method of eating would also help to dramatically lower methane emissions by reducing cattle in the meat and dairy industries.

Overall, eating a plant-based diet is excellent for the Earth as well as for you. If you want to experiment with a plant-based diet, connect with Kanupriya who has been working in this field since 2003. She is regarded as one of the best dietitians in Delhi because of her unwavering commitment to making a difference in people’s lives by instilling good eating habits and lifestyles.

Categories Other nutrition blog

Foods For Better Mental Health

Foods for better mental health

Mental Health is a form of well-being in which every individual discovers their potential, can cope with the regular stresses of life, function productively and fruitfully, and contribute to their community.  Mental health encompasses a range of emotions, at one end it may be expressed by feeling good and functioning well, while mental health conditions (or mental illness) at the other are characterized by symptoms that affect people’s thoughts, feelings or behaviour.

It is crucial to remember that mental health is complex. The fact that someone is not suffering from a mental health condition doesn’t necessarily mean their mental health is thriving.

Your brain and nervous system rely on nutrition to produce new proteins, cells, and tissues. So, to function effectively, your body requires a variety of carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals. To acquire all the nutrients that improve mental functioning, I advise eating meals and snacks containing various foods instead of eating the same meals each day. Sugar and processed foods can cause direct inflammation throughout the body and brain, contributing to mood disorders, including anxiety and depression. When we’re feeling stressed or depressed, we usually reach for processed foods in search of a quick fix-me-up, which further exaggerates the felling of sadness, etc.

Instead following are the top four food groups to integrate into a nutritional diet:

1. Carbohydrates such as starchy vegetables, brown rice, Quinoa, millet, beets, and sweet potatoes hold more nutritional value and will keep you sated longer than the simple carbohydrates in sugar and candy.

● Whole grains: Numerous kinds of food fall under this variety, like quinoa, oats, millets, etc. While your body and brain need carbohydrates for energy, we often consume simple carbs, which lead to blood sugar spikes. Foods categorized as whole grains comprise complex carbohydrates, which lead to glucose being constructed more slowly thereby giving an even and consistent energy supply. Furthermore, whole grains help the brain absorb tryptophan, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety while boosting brain function.

● Sweet Potatoes are widely popular because they are beta-carotene storehouses. They also help your eyes and immune system remain healthy.

Eating bananas can help in sweetening your mood. This is because bananas contain tryptophan – an amino acid that helps produce serotonin. Tryptophan also helps in enhancing sleep. Potassium-rich bananas also possess a good amount of Vitamin B-6 (a very important vitamin for brain function) and fiber.

2. Lean proteins lend energy that lets your body think and respond quickly. Good protein sources comprise chicken, fish, eggs, soybeans, nuts, yoghurt, and seeds.

● Eggs are a powerhouse of protein as they are rich in all nine essential amino acids- the component of protein that the body can’t make by itself.

Yoghurt : Yoghurt is an incredible source of probiotics. Constantly associated with digestive health, reducing stress and anxiety. Yoghurt can even provide you with potassium and magnesium, which helps oxygen reach the brain, further improving its function.

Nuts and seeds: They are not just good for heart health. They are great for brain health too. Omega 3 fats, Vitamin E, and other essential plant compounds in nuts and seeds like almonds, pistachios, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, etc. are great for your mind.

● Walnuts look like a brain for a reason. They are powerhouses of antioxidants. Even more amazingly, these nuts can also lead to the growth of new neurons; this means walnuts can help us grow new brain cells, an essential aspect of supporting good mental health.

● Chia seeds are one of the most affluent origins of plant-based omega-3 fats for vegetarians. Chia is an ancient grain and was a prominent part of the Aztec culture. Chia seeds can deliver a daily dose of good healthy fat into our lives in just a teaspoon and assist overcome depression.

3. Omega-3 fatty acids have various benefits for your body and brain. You can get omega-3 fats from fatty fish, algae, and a few plant foods. Here’s a list of foods high in omega-3:

Mackerel

Salmon

Herring

● Cod liver oil

● Shellfish(Oysters)

Anchovies

Walnuts

Flaxseeds

4. Dark Chocolate — Dark chocolate is classified as 70% or above of cocoa content, which you won’t find in milk chocolate. And the darker, the better. 85% cocoa or more is the most advantageous. Dark chocolate includes high levels of flavonoids and a variety of antioxidants. It has been found to increase attention and memory, enhance mood and help fight the cognitive decline in elderly adults.

In conclusion, here are some takeaways and healthy food tips to follow for better mental health:

● Stay clear of processed snack foods, such as potato chips, which harm your concentration ability. Try to ignore sugar-filled snacks, such as candy/soft drinks, which direct to ups and downs in energy levels.

● Consume a bunch of healthy fats. This will sustain your brain function.

● Have a healthy snack such as hard-boiled eggs, nuts, fruit, baked sweet potatoes, or edamame when the craving strikes. This will give you more energy than processed products.

● Think about where and when you eat. Don’t eat in front of the television. It’s distracting and leads you to overeat. Instead, search for a place to sit, relax, and observe what you’re eating. Chew slowly. Savour the taste and texture.

● Consume at least 2 liters, i.e., 8 glasses of water a day, to prevent dehydration. Research shows that even mild dehydration can induce fatigue, mood changes, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, headache, etc.

Kanupriya Khanna, a Senior Consultant Nutritionist & Dietitian with over 19 years of experience in nutrition, can deliver professional advice. Kanupriya Khanna is considered one of the finest dietitians in Delhi because of her determined allegiance to creating a difference in people’s lives by infusing healthy eating habits and lifestyles.

Categories Other nutrition blog

Ways to Stay Healthy Post Menopause

Menopause is a gentle reminder to take a break, slow down and start taking good care of your mental and physical being. Menopause is a part of every woman’s life, but the transition isn’t something to dread. Changes occur that impact the body and mind, but with proper care, the journey ahead becomes easier. 

What is Menopause? 

Menopause mostly appears between the ages of 45 and 55. It denotes the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. The body produces less oestrogen and progesterone during the normal menopause process. Having less of these hormones may cause: 

  • Hot flashes 
  • Sweating 
  • Fatigue 
  • Vaginal dryness 
  • Changes in sleep 
  • Mood swings 
  • Irritability 

The risk of several lifestyle disorders also increases post menopause. Some of them are: 

  • Weight gain 
  • Cancers of breast, etc. 
  • Heart disease 
  • Diabetes 
  • Depression

How do you stay healthy after menopause? 

Here are a few things you should include in your routine to maintain your health. 

  • Good NutritionA nutrient-dense, varied diet can help you avoid some of the health problems caused by menopause-related hormonal changes in the body. Vegetables and fruits, whole grains, and nuts should all be included in the diet. Non-vegetarian protein sources include fish, chicken, and dairy products. Vegans can substitute legumes, tofu, and quinoa for these. 
  • Exercise – Regular exercise is the most effective preventive measure for cardiovascular disease, cancer, and even mental health issues. It is as important as eating healthy food. 
  • Calcium & Vitamin D – Calcium is essential for bone, tooth, nail, and hair health. Calcium-rich foods include dairy products and fish. You also require more vitamin D to aid your body’s absorption of calcium. Fatty fish and fortified foods contain vitamin D. 
  • Emotional balance – It is critical to keep or develop hobbies and interests that allow you to learn new things and broaden your thinking and understanding of yourself and the world around you. This can be aided by good books, music, and art, etc.
  • Sex – If you have an active sexual life, consult your doctor about treatment options to reduce vaginal dryness and any other menopausal signs that may affect your lifestyle.

Benefits of exercise after menopause? 

Your body goes through several changes after menopause therefore it’s necessary to exercise during this phase. Regular physical activity helps in the following ways:

  • Prevents weight gain – Women tend to lose muscle mass and gain abdominal fat after menopause. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can help prevent weight gain. 
  • Reduces the risk of cancer – Exercise after menopause helps you maintain a healthy weight, which might offer protection from various types of cancer, including breast and endometrial cancer. 
  • Strengthens your bones – A good diet can slow bone loss after menopause, which lowers the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
  • Reduces the risk of other diseases – Excess weight increases the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Regular exercise and eating well can counter these risks.
  • Boosts your mood – Physically active women have a lower risk of depression and cognitive decline post menopause. 

Bottom line 

Leading a healthy lifestyle is essential for staying healthy during the menopausal transition and later in life. This includes eating a diverse diet.

Kanupriya Khanna is regarded as one of the best dietitians in Delhi because of her unwavering commitment to making a difference in people’s lives by instilling good eating habits and lifestyles.

Categories Children Diet

The Gluten-Free, Casein-free diet for Autism

The Gluten-Free, Casein-free diet for Autism

Children with autism need extra care and attention as they often experience symptoms like chronic diarrhoea, headaches, stomach cramps, poor sleeping patterns, and irritable behaviour. Many parents try different things and follow various diets to make their kids‘ journey smooth. There is a subset of autistic children with gut difficulties who may benefit from a gluten and casein-free diet.

What are Gluten and Casein?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye milk, barley and foods made from them. For instance, bread, pasta, biscuits, breakfast cereals, etc. Casein is a protein found in cow, buffalo and sheep milk (to a lesser extent in goat’s milk) and foods made from them, for instance, cream, yoghurt and cheese.

According to the experts, Gluten and casein can worsen autism symptoms by causing inflammation in the gut.

What Is The GFCF Diet?

The gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diet is an autism diet that eliminates all gluten and casein from the child’s diet. Many parents of autistic children report that it aids in positive shifts in nature, sleep, and speech.

The diet is thought to work by removing two proteins that autistic children may be especially sensitive to: gluten and casein. These proteins are more difficult to digest and, in the case of gluten, can harm the gut.

How does the Gluten-free/ Casein-free diet work?

According to the theory, children with autism digest peptides and proteins in gluten and casein-containing foods differently than other people.

This discrepancy in processing may, in theory, exacerbate autistic symptoms. Some believe that the brain treats these proteins as if they were synthetic opiates. They claim that a child’s reaction to these chemicals causes them to behave in a certain way. The diet is intended to alleviate symptoms while also enhancing social, cognitive, and speech skills.

How to switch to a gluten-free/dairy-free diet?

Replacing foods with gluten and dairy can be tough for both parents and kids. Some kids have no trouble changing their diets, but others have sensory and behavioural difficulties that make it all the way more problematic.

  • Support is very necessary for the transition.
  • It is better to introduce new foods during quiet, stress-free times.
  • Let your kid explore new textures and tastes.

What to eat on a gluten-free / casein-free diet?

Adopting a GFCF diet is more than avoiding bread and milk. An optimal diet is balanced and full of nutrients. People with autism are oftentimes deficient in certain nutrients, so a food list for autism will contain foods with these nutrients. Fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, beans, and eggs are adequate items to add to your food list. Here are alternate grains and milks that you can add to your child’s meal plans.

  • Rice (brown, red rice)
  • Sabudana or tapioca pearls
  • lentil flours
  • Chickpea flour
  • Quinoa
  • Millets
  • Kuttu (Buckwheat flour)
  • oats milk
  • Almond milk
  • Soya milk and tofu

A few crucial things to remember.

  • Use bean-based dishes and bake with alternative flours such as quinoa, rice, or sorghum flour.
  • You should avoid refined foods because many of these items include both hidden gluten and dairy products and the ingredient list might not identify them as GF/CF.
  • You can use almond milk, oat milk or soy milk, etc. as it’s accessible and healthy. Although be wary of the added sugars.
  • Become creative: Your child can savour ice cream with no dairy in it at all. Just mix a frozen banana with berries in your food processor and add chia seeds or almond milk for a little added protein depending on your kid’s preferences.

Takeaway

Some autistic kids struggle with changes, so gradually replacing gluten and casein foods with alternatives may be the best option.  Before making the change to a GFCF diet, consult a licensed dietician.

Kanupriya Khanna is regarded as one of the best dietitians in Delhi because of her unwavering commitment to making a difference in people’s lives by instilling good eating habits and lifestyles.

Beat the heat with these cooling foods
Categories Other nutrition blog

Beat the Heat With These Cooling Foods

Beat the heat with these cooling foods

The sun is out and the temperature is constantly rising! The scorching heat causes headaches, dehydration, and constant irritation. This is where air conditioners and coolers come in handy; however, this is only a momentary solution to the months-long dilemma. As the weather gets hotter, staying cool from within becomes an even greater priority for all of us.

Here are a few ways to keep your cool when it comes to food because what you eat could help you beat the heat.

  • Buttermilk or Chaas – Buttermilk, also known as chaas in the north, is the perfect drink to wash away the burning heat sensation in our bodies. The basic principle of making buttermilk is a spoonful of curd mixed with water, though different homes and regions add different ingredients to create different variations. Ginger, curry leaves, salt, jeera, pepper, mustard seeds, chilli, lemon, and coriander leaves can all be added and combined to give the existing buttermilk a new flavour.
  • Aam Panna – Summer is mango season, and Aam Panna made from unripe mangoes is a cooling antidote to the heat waves of summer. This drink, made from the pulp of the Kacha aam or Keri (mango) and mixed with sugar, jeera, mint and a pinch of salt, is also known to keep stomach related problems at bay.
  • Panakam – A South Indian speciality made from jaggery, water, ginger powder, salt, and powdered cardamoms. A variant of it, known as gol pani or jaggery water, is also popular in many Gujarati households. Jaggery is combined with water and a little lime juice in this recipe. This beverage provides quick refreshment.
  • Bel Sharbat – Bel sharbat or juice is a naturally healthy and tasty drink for the summer season. Wash the ripened fruit, cut it, and remove the pulp. In a utensil, combine the pulp and water doubled in volume. Mash them and put them in the water. Sieve this mashed pulp through a heavy strainer and extract the juice by pressing it with a spoon. Add sugar to the juice and, once thoroughly combined, add cold water. You can adjust the salt and cumin (Jeera) power to your liking.
  • Kulfa Saag – This is a very nutritious Hyderabadi vegetable. Boil leaves with a little salt until soft. Ground into a paste. Heat mustard oil. Splutter mustard seeds, cumin seeds, green chillies, coriander seeds and red chillies. Add kulfa paste. Saute for 2-3 minutes. Adjust salt and water as per taste and consistency required. Serve kulfa saag with roti.
  • Shrikhand – This sweet yoghurt dessert is famous in the western states of Gujarat and Maharashtra in India, served as a dessert or a side dish along with Puri. To make this delectable dessert, Yogurt is strained in a cloth to remove most of its water. It is chilled in the refrigerator for 6-7 hours. Later on, it’s mixed with different flavourings to make a flavoured Shrikhand.
  • Daab Sharbat – Coconut water is another healthy and delightful drink that is a must in the hot weather. It cools you down in just no time. Try this popular Bengali drink idea that you can effortlessly make with coconut water and tender coconut flesh. All you need to do is take iced coconut water in a glass and add some lemon juice to it. Put coconut flesh in the glass and enjoy this chilling drink.

Takeaway

There are many more regional foods and drinks that are both tasty and healthy. Perhaps, it is time to switch to some age-old simple recipes to beat the heat.

If you want to explore more healthy and flavorful food options, consult Kanupriya Khanna. She is regarded as one of the best dietitians in Delhi because of her unwavering commitment to making a difference in people’s lives by instilling good eating habits and lifestyles.

Categories Other nutrition blog

Parents’ First Month With a Newborn

Parents’ first month with a newborn

“With every newborn baby, a little sunrise rises!”

God’s blessing has arrived in the house and you’re contemplating every little thing to provide for your little one. Hold your newborn’s fingers and step on this beautiful journey.

Caring for your baby

Your baby may be the only one born lately, but their addition to the home is a big change for everyone. Juggling your new role as a parent with all of your adult responsibilities in the first few weeks can be daunting and hard for even experienced parents.

What to expect

The first week is still a period of recovery and adjustment. Not only because of the likely tiredness from regular night feeding but also because one small infant can eat up the hours in a day! Prioritize any necessary domestic tasks and avoid trying to cram too many into a single day.

Feeding and mealtime routines for newborn babies

You can expect your baby to feed every 2-3 hours, around the clock, during the first few days and weeks of his or her life. If your baby is cluster feeding, it may be more frequent. Some new parents are concerned about cluster feeding because they believe it means their baby isn’t getting enough nourishment, but it is normal newborn behaviour and can help you stabilise your milk supply if you are nursing. Newborns should not go more than 4-5 hours without feeding because it can affect their weight gain and development.

Feeding may appear unstable in the beginning, but rest assured this is natural. Over the next few weeks, you’ll want to help your baby create a routine that ensures they’re fed every three hours during the day for the first few months.

Baby’s bedtime routines

For the first month, newborns sleep a lot and nap a lot, spending up to 20 hours a day asleep and no more than 60-90 minutes awake at a time. As long as your baby is placed on their back and a firm surface, there are many places where your baby can sleep safely, such as a crib, bassinet, or Moses basket.

After feeding your newborn baby and checking for anything which may be causing a disturbance, allow a little time to connect with your baby. They will also get solace from nearness and voice.

Settling the baby in a crib

When starting to settle your baby into the crib, it’s significant to remember that they have no context of what a crib is and that they are expected to sleep in it. Therefore, it’s vital to create a routine when leaving your baby to sleep.

White noise to soothe the baby 

Low-pitched sounds, such as rain or a steady mechanical thrum are ideal for use. White noise is most beneficial when used for both day and night sleeping and is kept on for the duration of the sleep. If your newborn wakes up restless, try to re-settle him or her in the crib or, if that goes wrong, repeat the holding and rocking method

Diapers for the little one

You can expect 1 or 2 wet diapers on your baby’s first day of life. This will increase gradually each day until day five. You can expect your baby to have 6 (or more) wet diapers per day after that. You should keep track of how many wet diapers your baby has because this is a good indicator of whether or not they are getting enough milk or formula.

Caring for yourself

It’s also a nice time to be gentle with yourself. It is crucial to recognise and respect the emotions that come with becoming a parent, so avoid attempting to follow ‘pre-baby’ routines. It makes no difference if you spend the entire day in your pyjamas; what counts is that you eat regularly and relax when you can.

Nourishment for the new mother 

Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, leafy greens, protein-rich foods, and omega-3-rich foods like nuts and seeds. Continue to take your prenatal vitamins or try an omega 3 fatty acid supplement, which has been shown to improve the brain development of nursing babies as well as your memory.

The emotional rollercoaster

Parenting can evoke beautiful but sometimes upsetting feelings and memories. There is no better time to seek help if you are having difficulty managing any anxiety, lack of confidence, persistent sadness, or feelings of depression.

Experts to the rescue!

Like many other new parents, you may benefit from the assistance of a lactation consultant, physical therapist, pelvic floor therapist, nutritionist, sleep consultant, or other professionals.

Takeaway

Postpartum care should be a continuous process rather than a one-time event, with services and support tailored to each person’s specific needs. If you are looking for solutions, consult Kanupriya Khanna. She is regarded as one of the best dietitians in Delhi because of her unwavering commitment to making a difference in people’s lives by instilling good eating habits and lifestyles.

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