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March 3, 2025 By Jyoti Sawant 4 Comments

Eat Healthy At Work: Quick & Easy Snacks You Can Eat In The Office

eat healthy at workSnacking is an important part of a balanced diet. However, when it comes to snacking at work, many of us find ourselves staring at a vending machine or scrolling through food delivery apps, unsure of what to eat. One of the main reasons people struggle to maintain healthy eating habits in the office is a lack of time. In today’s fast-paced world, fast food seems like the easiest solution. Fortunately, there are plenty of quick, easy, and affordable healthy snacks that can keep you on track.

How to Eat Healthy At Work 

Swap fast food and unhealthy snacks with these healthier alternatives while at work:

1. Fat-Free Yogurt

Greek yoghurt is a nutritious and satisfying option. Opt for low-fat or skimmed milk versions for a healthier choice. You can enhance the flavour with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of jaggery. Adding fresh berries, apple slices, or bananas makes it even more nutritious!

2. Wholewheat Crackers & Peanut Butter

Pair multigrain wheat crackers with natural peanut butter for a filling and nutrient-dense snack. This combination provides complex carbohydrates and protein, keeping you energised and full for longer.

3. Nuts and Seeds

Instead of reaching for crisps or chocolate bars, opt for nuts and seeds. These are packed with protein, fibre, and healthy fats, making them a far better choice than snacks high in refined sugars and empty calories.

4. Fresh Fruits

Fruits offer natural sugars that provide a quick energy boost. Options like strawberries, oranges, apples, bananas, and melons are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fibre—perfect for keeping you refreshed and focused.

5. Instant Oatmeal

A plain instant oatmeal packet makes for a comforting yet healthy snack. Add your own raisins, cinnamon, or nutmeg to enhance the flavour while keeping sugar levels in check. Oats are known to reduce the risk of heart disease and provide long-lasting energy.

6. Stir-Fried Veggies

Pack a portion of stir-fried fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, celery, carrots, and green beans. These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre, keeping you full and nourished throughout the day.

7. Boiled Egg With Seasoning

Hard-boiled eggs are an excellent source of protein and help stabilise blood sugar levels. Simply slice a boiled egg in half, sprinkle some salt, pepper, or a pinch of smoked paprika, and enjoy a flavourful, protein-rich snack.

8. Low-Fat Popcorn

Popcorn isn’t just for movies! This low-calorie, high-fibre snack can satisfy cravings for something crunchy and salty—just be sure to choose a low-fat version without excessive butter or salt.

9. Protein Bars

Not all protein bars are created equal—some are packed with sugar and calories. Look for bars that contain fruit, nuts, and fewer than 200 calories. You can also make homemade protein bars using healthy ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds.

It’s time to ditch vending machines and food delivery apps in favour of healthier choices. By preparing quick, easy, and nutritious snacks, you can stay energised, focused, and productive at work.

Which healthy office snack is your favourite? Let us know in the comments!

#BeTheForce

February 27, 2025 By Shikha Singh 28 Comments

Why Does Your Body Need Antioxidants?

antioxidantsAntioxidants—also known as “free radical fighters”—have been making waves in the health and wellness industry. But what exactly do they do? Are they genuinely beneficial, or are they just another marketing buzzword? More importantly, is it better to get them from food or supplements? Let’s break it down.

Why Do We Need Antioxidants?

Free radicals are natural by-products produced by the body when processing food, particularly refined and processed foods, trans fats, artificial sweeteners, and certain additives. They are also generated due to environmental factors like pollution, smoking, exposure to pesticides, and even medical treatments such as chemotherapy.

If free radicals build up faster than the body can remove them, they cause oxidative stress, which can lead to cell damage, inflammation, and long-term health issues. This is where antioxidants come in—they help neutralise free radicals and protect cells from damage.

Best Natural Sources of Antioxidants

Different antioxidants serve different functions, so eating a varied diet is key. The best sources come from plant-based foods, particularly brightly coloured fruits and vegetables.

To naturally boost your antioxidant intake, try these simple dietary changes:

  • Eat a variety of fruit and veg – Include a portion in every meal and snack.
  • Sip on green or matcha tea – Packed with polyphenols that support cell health.
  • Spice it up – Turmeric, cumin, oregano, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon enhance flavour and antioxidant content.
  • Snack wisely – Opt for unsalted nuts and seeds, especially Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and almonds.
  • Don’t forget protein sources – Eggs, dairy, liver, and mushrooms contain key antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin A.

Should You Take Antioxidant Supplements?

While supplements may seem like a quick fix, they aren’t always necessary—and in some cases, they can do more harm than good.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) advises caution with high doses, as they can be harmful or interfere with medications. If you’re considering supplements, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional first.

There are some potential benefits for people at risk of age-related macular degeneration, but again, this should be discussed with a doctor. The best way to get antioxidants is through food. If your diet is lacking in fruit and veg, try starting with two servings of fruit and three servings of vegetables daily before considering supplements.

Antioxidants play a crucial role in cell protection and overall health, but balance is key. Instead of relying on supplements, aim to eat a colourful, whole-food diet that provides a wide range of natural antioxidants.

Do you prioritise antioxidant-rich foods in your diet? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

#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.

February 22, 2025 By Urvi Gohil 2 Comments

Healthy Eating: Vegetable Masoor Rice

vegetable masoor riceCan there be this one quick and easy meal which can fulfill all your nutritional needs? What if we told you there is! It is a personal favorite called the Vegetable Masoor Rice! This pot recipe gives you all the required nutrients such as carbohydrates and proteins. Thanks to the veggies, it also has fiber, antioxidants and essential vitamins! This meal can be enjoyed by all members of your family.

Ingredients for the Vegetable Masoor Rice

  • Overnight Soaked Masoor – 1 cup
  • Soaked Rice (2hr) – 1.5 cup
  • Finely Chopped Onion, Carrot, French Beans – ½ Cup Each
  • Green Peas – ½ Cup
  • Finely Chopped Coriander – 2 tbsp
  • Ginger Garlic Paste – 1 tbsp
  • Mustard Seeds, Cumin Seeds – ½ tsp each
  • Bay Leaf – 1
  • Small Cinnamon Stick
  • Red Chilly Powder – 1 tbsp
  • Turmeric – 1 tsp
  • Garam Masala – 1 tsp
  • Oil – 1 tbsp

How to Prepare

  1. Heat oil in a pan on a medium flame.
  2. Add bay leaf, cinnamon, mustard seeds and cumin seeds in the oil. Once the seeds crackle, add onion to the pan now and sauté.
  3. After the onions turn golden brown, add ginger garlic paste and sauté for few seconds.
  4. Add drained Masoor dal, carrot, beans and green peas to the mixture.
  5. Next, you add turmeric, red chilly powder, garam masala, salt and mix them well.
  6. Add the soaked rice and mix well.
  7. Follow it up with 3 cups of water and allow it to cook in the pan till the water evaporates on medium flame.
  8. Once the water evaporates, cover it with a lid and allow it to cook for another 5-7 minutes.
  9. When cooked, garnish the rice with coriander and serve hot!

Please Note: you can also use sprouted mung or Spilt Chana dal instead of Masoor.

Highlights of the Recipe

  • It is the best main meal ever! Eat this rice along with tomato, onion and cucumber raita. It tastes amazing.
  • It is extremely satiating and a good way to make your family eat vegetables and a rarely used pulse like Masoor.
  • This is your best pick for lunch and dinner!

Did you enjoy this healthy Vegetable Masoor Rice recipe? Do try it out and leave your thoughts in the comments below!

For more Healthy Recipes, check out Healthy Reads. You can also get these delicious recipes directly from your GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

February 21, 2025 By Saba Mirza 4 Comments

5 Yoga Asanas to Strengthen the Back

strengthen the backIf long working hours, incorrect posture, and less exposure to sunlight sound familiar, you’ve likely experienced back pain at some point. Whether it’s from sitting at a desk or traveling, back pain is a common issue, even among younger individuals. The solution? Strengthening your back muscles through yoga!

Why Do You Need a Strong Back?

The back muscles are the backbone of the body. They help maintain correct posture, improve balance, and prevent injuries. Weak back muscles can lead to stiffness, aches, cramps, and long-term issues. To strengthen your back, avoid long sitting hours, improve calcium and Vitamin D intake, and focus on flexibility. Yoga is one of the best ways to build both flexibility and strength. Let’s explore five effective yoga asanas to strengthen your back.

Asanas to Strengthen the Back

1. Tadasana (Mountain Pose):

strengthen the backTadasana is a basic asana for various standing yoga poses! It is excellent for improving posture, maintaining the curvature of your back and strengthening the hips and thigh muscles.

  1. Stand straight with a small gap between your feet
  2. Keep your hands straight at your sides, stretching your wrists and fingers
  3. Elongate and stretch your back, widen your collar bone and straighten your shoulder blade, relaxing them down the back
  4. Stand on your toes, stretching your knees, thighs and hips without tightening your belly.
  5. Hold for 20-30 seconds while breathing easily.

 2. Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose):

VirbhadrasanaWidely known as the warrior pose, Virabhadrasana strengthens the knees, thigh muscles, opens the hips and chest as well as stretches the back and leg muscles.

  1. Stand in Tadasana and keep your feet 4 feet apart
  2. Turn your left foot out by 90 degrees and your right foot in 15 degrees
  3. Raise your arms above your head, join your palms and look up at your thumbs
  4. Rotate your torso to the left, bend your knees while keeping them above the ankle (avoid bending more than that). Exhale.
  5. Stand in this posture for around 30 seconds.
  6. Straighten the knee while you inhale and bring your hand down
  7. Exhale and come back to the Tadasana pose.

 3. Trikonasana (Triangle Pose):

trikonasanaAs the name suggests, it’s a triangle posture which stretches the spine, opens up the chest and shoulder as well as reduces tension on the hip and thigh muscles. It helps in improving physical and mental equilibrium.

  1. Stand in Tadasana pose and separate the feet wide apart, around four feet from each other
  2. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and left foot in by 15 degrees. Now align the center of your right heel with the center of your arch of the left foot
  3. Inhale deeply and as you exhale, bend your body to the right, downward from the hips, keeping the waist straight, allowing your left hand to come up in the air while your right hand comes down towards the floor. Keep both arms in a straight line
  4. Rest your right hand on your shin, ankle, or the floor outside your right foot, whatever is possible without distorting the sides of the waist. Stretch your left arm toward the ceiling, in line with the top of your shoulders. Keep your head in a neutral position or turn it to the left, eyes gazing softly at the left palm.
  5. Ascertain that your body is bent sideways and not backward or forward. Pelvis and chest are wide open.
  6. Stretch maximum and be steady. Keep taking in long, deep breaths. With each exhalation, relax the body more and more. Just be with the body and the breath.
  7. As you inhale, come up, bring your arms down to your sides, and straighten your feet.
  8. Repeat the same on the other side.

 4. Matsyendrasana (Lord of the Fishes Pose):

lord of the fish poseOne of the best asanas to improve spinal health. It provides excellent compression and extension to the nerves and muscles supporting the back, increases elasticity of the spine, tones the spinal nerves and reduces the stiffness in the spinal muscles.

  1. Sit on the floor with legs straight in front of you. Keep the back erect
  2. Bend the left leg and place the heel of the left foot beside the right hip (optionally, you can keep the left leg straight)
  3. Take the right leg over the left knee
  4. Place the left hand on the right knee and the right hand behind you.
  5. Twist the waist, shoulders and neck in this sequence to the right and look over the right shoulder.
  6. Keep the spine erect.
  7. Hold and continue with gentle long breaths in and out
  8. Breathing out, release the right hand first (the hand behind you), release the waist, then the chest
  9. Release the neck and repeat on the other side
  10. Breathing out, come back to the front and relax

 5. Salabhasana (Locust Pose or Grasshopper Pose)

Salabhasana prepares beginners for a deeper backbend, strengthening the muscles of the entire torso from the nape of the neck, spine, chest, and legs to the back of the heels. It is a part of Hatha Yoga which stimulates the functioning of abdominal organs and relieves stress.

  1. Lie on your belly with your arms along the torso, palms up, forehead resting on the floor (use a yoga mat)
  2. Turn your big toes towards each other inwardly rotating your thighs and firm your buttocks
  3. Exhale and lift your head, upper torso, arms and legs away from the floor. You will be resting your entire weight on your lower ribs, belly and front pelvis
  4. Raise your arms parallel to the floor and stretch back actively through your fingertips. Press your scapula firmly into your back
  5. Keep the base of the skull lifted and back of the neck nicely long
  6. Stay in this asana for 15-30 seconds then release slowly with exhalation.

Practicing these asanas regularly can help strengthen your back, improve posture, and reduce pain. However, before starting, consult your doctor, physiotherapist, or yoga coach to ensure these poses are suitable for you. For expert guidance, book a GOQii Pro class through the GOQii App.

Have you tried these yoga asanas for back pain? Share your experience in the comments below! For more tips on yoga and wellness, explore Healthy Reads or connect with a GOQii Coach for personalized guidance here.

#BeTheForce 

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