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4 Essential Vitamins That You Should Consume This Winter

essential vitaminsWhile there are numerous reasons to love winter, it comes along with a few downsides. As there is less exposure to sunlight, it may arise out of weather beaten dry skin. Consumption of vitamin rich food or supplements will balance the effects of winter on the body. There are mainly 4 essential vitamins which should be given priority during winter.

4 Essential Vitamins For Winter 

1. Vitamin C
During winter, due to the changes in climate, we are more prone to cold and fever. So, eating more Vitamin C rich foods helps you to boost immunity. As it is necessary to maintain good body temperature in winter, the consumption of Vitamin C enriched food will aid in maintaining optimum body temperature. The main Vitamin C rich foods are citrus fruits like oranges, lemon and sweet lime. Drinking a glass of lemonade daily will help to boost your immunity level. Apart from citrus fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, pepper, strawberries and Indian gooseberry (amla) are also rich in Vitamin C. So, try to add these kinds of fruits and vegetables to your daily diet this season. 

2. Vitamin D
It is also known as the ‘Sunshine Vitamin’ as the main source of Vitamin D is sunlight. Therefore, diseases generated due to Vitamin D deficiency are most common during winter due to less exposure to sunlight. The main function of Vitamin D is the calcium regulation in our body, which means Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium in the body. The main sources of Vitamin D are eggs, milk, butter, and cod liver oil. During noontime, try to expose yourself to sunlight for at least 10-15 minutes. The best time for exposure to sunlight is 10am to 3pm. Vitamin D plays an important role in heart health and immunity as well.

3. Vitamin B
Also known as the super vitamins, they maintain cell health and keep you energized. Vitamin B is also called as B complex vitamins as there are various subcategories. The B complex Vitamins are B1- Thiamine, B2- Riboflavin, B3- Niacin, B5- Pantothenic acid, B6- Pyridoxine, B7- Biotin, B9- Folic Acid, B12- Cobalamin. These eight B complex vitamins differ in benefits. B1- Thiamine enables the body to use carbohydrate metabolism. B2- Riboflavin helps to break down carbohydrates, fats and proteins. B3- Niacin helps increase the HDL cholesterol and lowers the LDL cholesterol. B5- Pantothenic acid helps in the formation of blood cells. Pyridoxine helps lower the risk for Alzheimer’s disease. B7- Biotin helps in keeping our skin, hair and nervous system healthier. B9- folic acid is a very important vitamin during the pregnancy period because it is essential for the formation of foetus’ brain, skull and development of the spinal cord. In one word, we can say folic acid is important to avoid foetus neural tube defects. B12 Cobalamin helps to treat Anaemia and bone issues like osteoporosis. Food sources include dark green leafy vegetables, meat, fish, egg, milk and cheese.

4. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that also acts as an antioxidant. During winter, Vitamin E plays an important role in caring for our skin because it helps prevent dryness. So, try to have a Vitamin E moisturizer with you. It acts as a skin care hero during winter and it hydrates your skin. Food sources include pumpkin, sunflower seeds and oil, avocado, almonds and spinach. 

Eating a balanced, healthy diet along with a few supplements will improve the negative effects of cold weather.  But it is always advised to take consultation from your doctor, nutritionist or dietician to figure out what dosage is right for you.

We hope this article helps you. Do leave your thoughts in the comments below. For more winter tips, check out Healthy Reads or ask a GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

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Food And Nutritional Guidelines for Healthy Kids

Healthy Food for ChildrenEvery parent, at some point, has faced an issue with food and children. On one hand, children can be quite fussy about the food they eat and on the other, they need the right food and nutrition. How do you bridge the gap? How can you feed your children nutritious food and get them to like it too?

While every child has his/her own preferences, we will share the essential food groups that must be included in your child’s diet as well as food options you can choose to get your child on the right side of healthy!

Carbohydrates and Proteins  

Grains are a good source of carbohydrates. They provide much-needed energy by children to carry out their day to day activities. We can get carbs from oatmeal, quinoa, millet, wheat bread and multigrain roti. This can be mixed with protein sources such as bread with peanut butter or almond butter, upma (cooked Semolina) with peanuts or Poha (flattened rice cooked) with a few dry fruits. Idli (steamed rice cakes) with sambar (vegetable curry) or roti (flat wheat bread) with dal (lentils) or beans or an egg sandwich can be opted for in order to make the meal nourishing.

Since proteins are the building blocks of the body, they promote growth and development. Kids need 1gm of protein for every kilogram he/she weighs. Few other examples of protein sources which you can opt for are peas, chicken, seafood, unsalted nuts and seeds.

Fruits

Fruits either in the morning or evening will give your kids a boost of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They will boost your child’s disease-fighting ability not just now but in the future as well. Keeping in line with the old adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”, try to incorporate at least one fruit in their meal.

Although, there are certain rules of eating fruit. It should not be consumed along with a meal or immediately after meals. This is because the fruit might rot when mixed with any food you have eaten. It is safe to consume them at snack time. You can add a few pieces of fruit in his or her lunch box or can give it separately so they can eat it with mini intervals.

Vegetables

Encourage your kids to eat veggies. We understand that it is difficult to get your children to eat vegetables. An option that you could explore is smoothies. Some greens with a dash of any fruit they like, mixed with jaggery or honey can be a delicious treat! You could also make sprouts salad, peanut salad or chicken salad with a few vegetables like corn, tomatoes, peas, carrot or a vegetable liked by your child.

Good Fats

Try to incorporate some good fats. Fats help in the development of the brain, nerves and eyes. Examples of good fat are nuts like almonds, pista, cashew nuts and peanuts. Avoid these if your child is allergic to any nuts. You can also include seeds like chia, basil and mix them with fruit juice. More examples of good fats include avocados, olive oil and canola oil. The best way to consume oils is by sprinkling them on salads and nuts. Seeds can also be sprinkled with the aforementioned oils. You can also add them to any sandwich or toast.

Focus on reducing junk and fast food which are high in sugars, fats and low in important nutrients. They are easily available and tempting but they increase the risk of obesity, juvenile diabetes, asthma and allergies. Always try to make your kid’s plate colourful and attractive.

Dairy

Dairy plays an important role in keeping your little one’s bones strong. To ensure that your child has stronger teeth and bones, add one or two cups of milk to their diet. If your child does not like milk, go for Greek Yogurt which is available in many flavours. In case your child is lactose intolerant, go for almond milk, soy milk or opt for lactose-free milk.

Water Intake

Lastly, keep an eye over your child’s water intake. Water helps in various bodily functions such as absorption and digestion of food as well as excretion. Lack of water may leave your child dehydrated. Do not opt for carbonated beverages. Avoid tea or coffee as they don’t need it at such a tender age. Yes, you can give them tea but ensure that it is herbal like chamomile or green tea. You can also opt for healthier options such as a ginger turmeric drink which will reap positive health benefits for your child.

We hope the food and nutrition guidelines above help you and your growing child. Do leave your queries in the comments below! For more on Children’s Health, check out Healthy Reads or speak to an expert by subscribing for GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

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Carrots, Beetroots and Tomatoes For Good Health!

carrots, beetroots and tomatoesStress, oily foods, greasy foods, smoke, smog and air pollution give rise to free radicals in our body. These free radicals cause cell damage and bring about aging in us. Antioxidants capture these free radicals and protect our cells and blood vessels from the damage caused by them. Thus, antioxidants are great for our skin, heart, metabolism and are anti-aging. Carrots, Beetroots and Tomatoes are among the vegetables that have the highest amount of these antioxidants. Carrots are rich in Vitamin A that helps build immunity and eyesight, while beetroots have blood pressure lowering properties and tomatoes are heart healthy and skin brightening!

The combination of carrots, beetroots and tomatoes helps in weight loss and curb constipation as well. The nutrients of these are best absorbed when taken in combination with each other. Though available throughout the year, they’re the best during winter! Here are some easy ways to make very low calories, yet satiating recipes with this wonderful combination. 

3 Healthy Recipes Using Carrots, Beetroots and Tomatoes

1. CBT Juice
Want to get rid of toxins? Employ Carrots, Beetroots and Tomatoes for a cleansing, detox drink that will flush out all those toxins! 

What you will need: 

  • Carrot – 1 medium sized 
  • Beetroot – 1 
  • Tomato – 1 
  • Mint – 5-6 leaves
  • Coriander – 2-3 twigs 
  • Rock salt and lemon juice – to taste 

Method:

  1. Peel and roughly chop the carrot, beetroot and tomato
  2. Blend them along with mint and coriander leaves in a blender/juicer
  3. Add some water if required while blending to bring a juice like consistency.
  4. Add lemon juice, rock salt and mix well

Important: Do not strain, or you’ll lose all the good fiber. Drink the juice within 15 minutes of preparation or else the juice gets oxidised and may lose most of its healthy goodness. The best time to have this is on an empty stomach in the morning – do not eat anything for the next half an hour. 

2. CBT Salad
Confused about what to eat for lunch? Want something that’s filling and low on calories? Let this CBT Salad be your go-to recipe! 

What you will need: 

  • Carrot – ½ cup grated
  • Beetroot – ½ cup 
  • Tomato – ½ cup finely chopped            
  • Onion – ¼ cup 
  • Coriander leaves – 1 tablespoon chopped
  • Mint leaves – 1 tablespoon 
  • Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon 
  • Sesame seeds – 1 teaspoon 
  • Salt to taste 
  • You can also add: Yoghurt, chopped walnuts, feta cheese

Method:

  • Mix and toss all the chopped and grated vegetables
  • Add lemon juice and salt.
  • Garnish with chopped coriander and mint leaves
  • You can pour a temper of curry leaves and mustard seeds over this salad
  • Yoghurt can be mixed with this salad
  • Add some finely chopped walnuts or sesame seeds for a nutty flavour and the good fats.
  • Feta cheese will add some first class protein

Important: Wash all the vegetables properly. Squeeze the lemon just before consuming the salad. Salad should be consumed within 20-25 minutes of preparation to avoid the nutrients getting oxidised. Start lunch with this salad as it will curb post-meal glucose excursion. Aids weight loss, as it is filling and has less calories.

3. Soup
In the mood for soup? Here’s something we’re sure you haven’t tried before! 

  • Tomatoes – 5 
  • Carrots – 2 
  • Beetroot – 1 
  • Ginger garlic paste – 1 tablespoon 
  • Cinnamon stick – 1 inch 
  • Bay leaf – 1 
  • Ghee (Clarified butter) – 1 tablespoon 
  • Salt, cumin powder, chili flakes, fresh pepper, dry herbs (oregano, basil, parsley) to taste.

Method:

  1. Pressure cook the carrots, beetroots and tomatoes with the cinnamon stick, bay leaf and enough water to soak for 2 whistles
  2. Cool down the boiled vegetables. Discard the cinnamon stick, bay leaf and the skin from the tomatoes. Puree the rest in a blender
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter) in a medium pot. Add the ginger garlic paste and be sure to not burn it
  4. Carefully pour the puree in the pot
  5. Add cumin powder, salt, chili flakes and fresh ground pepper as per taste
  6. Bring to a boil on medium high heat, stirring the mixture a few times
  7. Sprinkle some dry herbs and serve hot! 

Important: The best time to have this soup is for a light dinner or a healthy evening snack. 

We hope you enjoy all the amazing benefits offered by this healthy combination of Carrots, Beetroots and Tomatoes! Do try out all the recipes and let us know in the comments below! For more on nutrition, check out Healthy Reads or ask a GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

Eat healthy and #BeTheForce  

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

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Your Guide For A Happy Gut: Say bye to bloating, acidity and heartburn

Gut health Your body is constantly communicating with you. Very small episodes of acidity, bloating, indigestion, etc. says a lot about your lifestyle and overall health. Are you paying attention? It is important for us to know that about 70% of the immune system is located in our gut and the gut absorbs nutrients that support body functions from energy production to hormone balance, skin health to mental health and toxin & waste elimination too.

So how can you keep your gut healthy? Well, follow this guide for a happy gut to stay healthy!

Easy Guide For A Happy Gut 

  1. Fennel Seeds or Saunf: These seeds have antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory properties and promote the production of gastric enzymes. It works wonderfully against indigestion, bloating, acidity, heartburn post meals and constipation too. Just add 1 tbsp of raw seeds to the water bottle you carry to office or have 1 glass of fennel seed water post meals to take care of such symptoms.
  2. Basil Seeds: They work well in relieving constipation, bloating, naturally detox your body and help regulate smooth bowel movements. It works as a natural coolant. You can have a glass of milk with basil seeds few hours before bed time, or make a drink with water, honey and basil seeds and have it in mid-morning, or just make a habit of soaking it for 2-3 hours and drinking the water in the morning.
  3. Fenugreek Seeds: These are rich in fiber and antioxidants, and help in enhancing bowel movement. Take a tsp of fenugreek seeds and soak it in 1 cup of water at night and have it in the morning with a glass of lukewarm water if you have long term problems of constipation, indigestion or heartburn. *People experiencing severe acidity should avoid this.
  4. Lemon Ginger Water: This will help strengthen the digestive system and prevent indigestion, nausea, heartburn and bloating. Take a glass of lukewarm water, add 1 tsp of lemon juice and 1 tsp of ginger juice in it. This will work best for bloating post meals or occasional bloating post heavy meals.
  5. Apple Cider Vinegar: The unfiltered, unpasteurized and raw mother Apple Cider Vinegar has live micro-organisms and help to work towards heartburn & GI stress. A dilution of Apple Cider Vinegar before a meal can help you stimulate acid secretion and reduce gut symptoms. Also, having a tbsp of ACV in 300 ml water in the morning can also help in the same.
  6. Water: Is the body’s basic requirement! A constant supply of water is necessary to replenish the fluids lost through activities such as respiration, perspiration, urination, regulating body temperature, digesting food, etc. Try to drink at least 2-2.5L of water throughout the day and it is the answer to all your digestive issues.
  7. Vegetables & Fruits: Having 1 portion of vegetables in every meal is the best way to help your gut digest the food well and have enough nutrients. Plus, the fiber from them helps to ease bowel movement and acts as food for micro-organisms. Fruits are best to go for in mid meals to add more soluble fiber and get rid of acidity and bloating.
  8. Physical Activity: No escape here. Being physically active for 30-45mins is the answer to good health and a happy gut. Exercise gets your heart pumping and increases blood flow and oxygen circulation throughout the body. Blood and oxygen are necessary to aid digestion and keep the intestinal muscles healthy. So for constipation, bloating, acidity, heartburn, etc. including some walking, cycling, yoga, etc. will give you better results.
  9. No Sugar: Processed sugar, refined flour, fried and processed food should be avoided as they are not good for your gut microbes.

Just follow these simple tips for a happy gut! If this article helped you, let us know your thoughts in the comments below. You can find more articles like this on Gut Health here. If you want expert advice or further guidance on improving digestive or gut health, speak to a GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

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