Reading Time: 6 minutes Veganism in dietary terms denotes the practice of dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals” – as defined by the Vegan Society.
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Blogs, Nutrition And Diet
Reading Time: 4 minutes Inadequate intake of vitamin C can result in a deficiency, leading to conditions such as scurvy and impaired immune function
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Editorial, Nutrition And Diet
Reading Time: 4 minutes The alkaline diet is one such diet that supposedly increases the alkaline content in our body by consuming foods that contain a pH greater than 7
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Blogs, Nutrition And Diet
Reading Time: 4 minutes Animal protein sources are far superior compared to plant sources of protein, in terms of just the pure amount of protein they provide
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Medicine, Nutrition And Diet
Reading Time: 2 minutes Healthy, glowing skin is often a reflection of good daily habits. By incorporating these habits in your routine, you can achieve optimal skin health.
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Health Guide by TAC
Reading Time: 3 minutes Top 10 Superfoods to Boost Your Immune System A strong immune system is essential for warding off illnesses and maintaining overall health. Superfoods are nutrient-dense foods that provide a significant boost to your immunity. Incorporating these into your diet can help you stay healthy year-round. 1. Citrus Fruits The Power of Vitamin C Rich in vitamin C, citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits increase white blood cell production, which is vital for fighting infections. Vitamin C is a well-known immune booster, and its regular intake is crucial for maintaining optimal immune function. How to Use: Enjoy fresh citrus fruits as snacks, add slices to your water, or use their juice in salads and marinades. 2. Garlic Immune-Boosting Compounds Garlic is renowned for its immune-boosting properties, thanks to its sulfur-containing compounds like allicin. These compounds enhance the immune system’s ability to fight off invaders by stimulating the activity of immune cells. How to Use: Add minced garlic to soups, stews, stir-fries, or roasted vegetables. Garlic supplements are also available. 3. Ginger Anti-Inflammatory Benefits Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can enhance immune response. It’s especially effective in reducing inflammation, which is crucial in maintaining a robust immune system. How to Use: Brew ginger tea, add grated ginger to smoothies, or use it in cooking. 4. Spinach Nutrient-Rich for Immunity Spinach is packed with antioxidants, beta-carotene, and essential nutrients like vitamin C and iron, all of which boost immune function. These nutrients work synergistically to enhance the body’s ability to fend off infections. How to Use: Add spinach to salads, smoothies, or sauté it as a side dish. 5. Almonds Vitamin E and Immune Health Almonds are rich in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps maintain a healthy immune system. Vitamin E is fat-soluble, meaning it requires fat to be absorbed, which almonds naturally provide. How to Use: Snack on a handful of almonds, add them to yogurt, or use almond butter as a spread. 6. Yogurt Probiotics for Gut Health Yogurt contains probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support gut health. Since a large part of the immune system is housed in the gut, maintaining a healthy gut flora is key to a strong immune response. How to Use: Choose plain yogurt and add fresh fruits or honey for flavor. Avoid flavored yogurts with added sugars. 7. Turmeric Curcumin’s Immune Benefits Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin enhances the body’s immune response by modulating the activity of immune cells. How to Use: Add turmeric to curries, soups, or make a turmeric latte. Pair with black pepper to improve curcumin absorption. 8. Green Tea Flavonoids and L-Theanine Green tea is loaded with flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that boosts immune function. Additionally, it contains the amino acid L-theanine, which aids in producing germ-fighting compounds in your T-cells. How to Use: Drink 1-2 cups of green tea daily to reap its immune-boosting benefits. 9. Sunflower Seeds Essential Vitamins and Minerals Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin E and selenium, both of which are essential for a strong immune system. Selenium, in particular, plays a critical role in the production and function of white blood cells. How to Use: Sprinkle sunflower seeds on salads, yogurt, or oatmeal. 10. Papaya Tropical Immune Booster Papaya is a tropical fruit loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and digestive enzymes like papain, which have anti-inflammatory effects. These properties help in bolstering the immune system. How to Use: Enjoy papaya as a snack, in fruit salads, or blended into smoothies. I appreciate the article’s focus on nutrient-dense foods like citrus fruits, garlic, and turmeric, which can support the immune system. However, it’s important to emphasise that no single food or group of “superfoods” can guarantee immunity. While these foods are beneficial, they should be part of a balanced diet and a comprehensive approach to health, which includes regular exercise, sufficient sleep, stress management, and appropriate medical care. Nutrition is a valuable tool, but it should complement, not replace other essential health practices. Patients should be encouraged to adopt a holistic approach to their health, using nutrition as a supportive tool rather than a sole solution. – Dr Darshit Patel Conclusion: Incorporating these superfoods into your daily diet can significantly enhance your immune system’s ability to fight off infections and maintain overall health. A varied and balanced diet, along with a healthy lifestyle, is the best strategy to keep your immune system in top shape. Related: Nutritional wonders of 5 ancient Indian superfoods
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Blogs, Health Guide by TAC
Reading Time: 5 minutes Outside food is deep fried, has high salt or sugar content and is cooked so much to lose all the natural nutrients.
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Blogs, Editorial
Reading Time: 5 minutes Join esteemed Urologist Dr. Jaison Philip as he dispels kidney stone myths and sheds light on renal health in this informative piece.
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Editorial, Expert Insights
Reading Time: 6 minutes Top 10 Safe Sweet Foods Indulging in sweet treats is one of life’s simple pleasures. The taste of sweetness can bring joy and comfort to our lives, but it’s essential to approach this pleasure with caution and safety in mind. Not all sweet foods are created equal, and the abundance of sugary delights on the market can make it challenging to navigate the terrain of sweet snacks that are both delicious and safe for your health. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of sweet foods, exploring the top 10 safe options that will satisfy your cravings without compromising your well-being. From natural and nutritious to wholesome and homemade, we have selected a variety of sweet treats that are not only tasty but also health-conscious. Do not forget to have a look at the delicious Picture gallery in the end! 1. Fresh Fruit: Nature’s Candy In our search for sweet foods, sometimes we overlook the simplest and healthiest option of all: fresh fruit. Fruits like apples, berries, oranges, and pears offer the perfect balance of natural sweetness and essential nutrients. They are free from additives, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners, making them an ideal, safe option for satisfying your sweet tooth. In addition to their delicious taste, fresh fruits provide an abundance of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre. These nutrients contribute to overall health and can help curb your sugar cravings while keeping your diet on the right track. 2. Greek Yogurt with Honey: A Protein-Packed Pleasure Greek yoghurt sweetened with honey is a delightful and safe sweet food option. Greek yoghurt is known for its high protein content, making it a nutritious choice for satisfying your sweet cravings. To ensure the utmost safety and health benefits, opt for plain Greek yoghurt and drizzle a touch of natural honey with walnuts. This combination provides the creamy satisfaction of traditional yoghurt with the added benefits of protein and a touch of natural sweetness. 3. Dark Chocolate: A Decadent Delight Indulging in chocolate can be a true pleasure, and dark chocolate, with at least 70% cocoa content, offers a way to enjoy this delight while staying on the safe side. Dark chocolates are rich in antioxidants and have lower sugar content compared to their milk chocolate counterpart. Indulging in a small piece of high-quality dark chocolate can be a safe and delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings. 4. Oatmeal with Cinnamon or Fruit: A Wholesome Start Sweet breakfasts are a favourite for many, but you can enjoy them safely by opting for a bowl of oatmeal. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and some sliced bananas or berries for a satisfying and healthy dessert. Oatmeal is a heart-healthy whole grain that provides dietary fibre and essential nutrients. By naturally sweetening it with fruits and a hint of cinnamon, you’ll be rewarded with a delightful morning or anytime treat that’s both safe and nutritious. 5. Nut Butter on Whole-Grain Bread: A Perfect Pair Almond, peanut, or cashew butter spread on whole-grain bread offers a delightful combination of sweet and savoury. This option is packed with healthy fats, fibre, and protein while minimizing added sugars. Whole-grain bread provides complex carbohydrates that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer. The combination of nut butter and whole-grain bread not only tastes good but is a safe and nutritious way to quench your sweet cravings. 6. Frozen Yogurt with Fresh Fruit: A Healthier Alternative If you’re a lover of ice cream but want a safer option, consider frozen yoghurt with a variety of fresh fruit toppings. Choose low-fat or non-fat frozen yoghurt options and load up on fresh fruit for added flavour and nutrition. This frozen treat offers the creamy texture and delightful sweetness of ice cream but with fewer calories and a healthier nutrient profile. 7. Rice Cakes with Nut Butter and Banana: Crunchy and Creamy Rice cakes topped with a layer of nut butter and banana slices make for a crunchy, creamy, and naturally sweet treat. Rice cakes are a low-calorie and gluten-free option that provides a satisfying crunch. Nut butter offers healthy fats and protein, while bananas contribute natural sweetness and a dose of potassium. This combination is an excellent choice for a snack or light dessert that’s safe and enjoyable. 8. Baked Apples with Cinnamon: Comforting and Nutritious Baked apples seasoned with cinnamon make a delectable dessert that’s both simple and safe. The natural sweetness of the apples intensifies as they bake, offering a comforting and healthy treat. Apples are rich in dietary fibre and antioxidants, making them a valuable addition to your diet. Cinnamon adds a warm and inviting flavour, enhancing the sweetness of the apples without the need for excessive sugar. 9. Chia Pudding: A Sweet and Nutrient-Packed Dessert Chia pudding is a versatile and nutritious sweet option. Chia seeds soaked in almond milk or yoghurt, sweetened with a touch of honey or maple syrup, and topped with fresh berries provide a safe, sweet, and satisfying dessert that’s also packed with fibre and nutrients. Chia seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fibre. The addition of fresh berries not only enhances the taste but also offers essential vitamins and antioxidants. 10. Homemade Popsicles: Customizable and Safe Making your popsicles at home allows you to take control of the ingredients and tailor them to your preferences. Use fruits, yoghurt, or fruit juice as your base and customize the flavours to your taste. These homemade popsicles are free from artificial additives and excessive sugars, making them a safe choice for sweet satisfaction. You can experiment with a variety of flavours, from strawberry and mango to lemon and lime, ensuring that your sweet cravings are met without compromising your health. Conclusion Satisfying your sweet tooth is a delightful part of life, and it’s entirely possible to do so safely without sacrificing your health. The top 10 safe sweet foods discussed in this article offer a delicious alternative to sugar-laden, processed sweets. By choosing natural, nutritious, and
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Nutrition And Diet, People Forum