Latest news with #LeemaMahajan
NDTV
7 hours ago
- Health
- NDTV
6 Classic Indian Breakfast Upgrades That Actually Burn Fat
Nutritionist Leema Mahajan suggests healthier versions of six popular Indian breakfasts to aid weight loss. Upgrades include adding protein, fibre, and probiotics for better energy, digestion, and fat loss without extreme dieting. Many of us begin our day with well-intentioned food choices-comforting, homemade Indian breakfasts that feel nourishing. But what if those familiar meals are not really supporting your weight loss journey? Nutritionist Leema Mahajan, in a recent Instagram post, shares how some beloved breakfast dishes can be reimagined for better energy, digestion, and fat loss. The goal? No crash diets, no extreme restrictions- just smart, satisfying upgrades that work with your lifestyle... and help you lose weight fast. Let's decode six common Indian breakfasts and how to give them a healthy makeover. Here Are 6 Popular Indian Breakfasts And Ways To Make Them Work For Weight Loss 1. Idli with Coconut Chutney: Upgrade: Idli with Vegetable Sambhar While idlis are low in calories, pairing them with only chutney may leave you hungry soon after. Enter sambhar - a protein-rich, fibre-packed lentil stew loaded with vegetables. It keeps you full longer, balances blood sugar, and curbs mid-morning cravings. 2. Overnight Oats with Fruits: Upgrade: Chia Seed Pudding with Seasonal Fruits Overnight oats often include added milk, sweeteners, or nut butters, which sneak in extra calories. Chia seeds, on the other hand, offer omega-3 fats, a lower glycaemic load, and promote better satiety. Paired with seasonal fruits, it's a refreshing, weight-friendly start. Here's a chia seed pudding recipe you can try. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leema Mahajan | Nutritionist & Weight loss specialist (@leemamahajan) 3. Aloo Masala Dosa: Upgrade: Moong Dal Dosa with Paneer Filling Aloo masala is heavy on starch and low on protein. Swap it for a dosa made from moong dal-light, protein-rich, and gut-friendly. Stuff it with paneer for added protein, which supports lean muscle growth and keeps you energised for hours. 4. Suji Upma: Upgrade: Millet Upma (Jowar or Bajra) Suji (semolina) is processed and can spike insulin levels. Millets, on the other hand, are gluten-free, rich in minerals, and offer complex carbs that digest slowly. The result? Longer-lasting fullness and improved metabolic health. Also Read: 5 Morning Rituals To Kick-Start Weight Loss Journey And Cut Belly Fat 5. Ragi or Oats Chilla: Upgrade: Besan + Moong Dal Chilla While ragi and oats are healthy, besan and moong dal bring in high-quality, bioavailable protein that's easy on the gut. These chillas stabilise blood sugar and offer sustained energy-great if you're balancing work and workouts. 6. Plain Paratha with Chai & Achar: Upgrade: Missi Roti with Curd Paratha with chai and pickle is delicious but low on protein and probiotics. Missi roti (a blend of besan and whole wheat) with curd delivers the perfect trio of complex carbs, good bacteria, and quality protein- ideal for digestion and hormone balance. Check out these tips to make perfect missi roti. These changes aren't about eating less, they're about eating smarter. By upgrading your breakfast thoughtfully, you support your body's natural fat-burning mechanisms, reduce bloating, and enjoy better energy throughout the day. No crash diets. No deprivation. Just better choices that feel and taste good.
NDTV
30-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Which Roti Is Best For You? Learn How To Tailor Grains To Your Health Needs
In an age of superfoods and supplements, many of us overlook the simplest dietary tweak: rotating our grains based on what our bodies truly need. Nutritionist Leema Mahajan recently shared a thoughtful post on Instagram that has inspired many to revisit their flour jar with new respect. Her message is clear - our ancestors had it right. Choosing the right grain can be a subtle but powerful act of self-care. Let's explore how different traditional Indian grains - long valued in Ayurveda - can support your health. How to choose flour for roti as per your health condition: Barley (Jau) Best for: Blood sugar management & heart health With its low glycaemic load and rich beta-glucan content, barley is excellent for stabilising blood sugar and lowering cholesterol. If you're diabetic or managing high cholesterol, a barley roti a few times a week can make a noticeable difference. Samak (Barnyard Millet) Best for: Summer detox & sensitive digestion Light, cooling, and easy to digest, samak is perfect for those muggy summer months when heavy grains feel overwhelming. If you experience bloating, nausea, or loss of appetite in the heat - or are dealing with low iron - samak is a gentle companion. Bajra (Pearl Millet) Best for: Winter warmth & iron deficiency Thick, earthy, and deeply satisfying, bajra roti is a winter staple in many Indian homes. Rich in iron and deeply warming, it's ideal for those with anaemia or a sluggish metabolism during colder months. here are some tips to make perfect bajra roti. Amaranth (Rajgira) Best for: Thyroid support & gluten sensitivity Naturally gluten-free and a powerhouse of selenium and protein, amaranth is ideal for those managing thyroid conditions or hormone imbalances. Its nutty flavour also adds variety to your roti routine. Ragi (Finger Millet) Ragi roti is a nutritious addition to your diet. Best for: Bone health & growing children Packed with natural calcium and vitamin D, ragi is a must for children, post-menopausal women, and older adults. A soft ragi roti with ghee and jaggery? Both delicious and functional. Jowar (Sorghum) Best for: Digestive issues & constipation Rich in insoluble fibre, jowar helps keep your digestive system running smoothly. If you often feel constipated or sluggish after meals, jowar rotis can bring welcome relief. Here's how to make soft jowar roti. Khapli (Emmer Wheat) Best for: Wheat sensitivity & gut health Khapli is an ancient, low-gluten wheat variety that's far gentler than modern wheat. If regular atta leaves you bloated or heavy, switch to khapli - it could transform your relationship with rotis. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leema Mahajan | Nutritionist & Weight loss specialist (@leemamahajan) Swapping your roti grain isn't a diet trend, it's a return to eating with intention. Listen to your body, observe the seasons, and trust that your kitchen can be your pharmacy. Sometimes, the simplest meals are the most healing.
NDTV
23-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
5 Of The Best Foods To Naturally Reduce Chronic Inflammation
Have you ever woken up feeling bloated, sluggish, or just off? This could be your body's way of signalling inflammation. For those unfamiliar, inflammation is your body's natural defence mechanism, but when it shifts to chronic inflammation, problems start to arise. It quietly builds up in your body and can lead to several serious health issues. In today's world, modern lifestyle factors play a major role in increasing inflammation, and no quick home remedy seems to work. The good news is that your kitchen might hold the key to managing this condition naturally. If you struggle with chronic inflammation, this article is for you. Let us hear from experts about how a few simple ingredients can help you control this problem naturally. Here Are 7 Symptoms Of Chronic Inflammation Inflammation can occur in the body at any time. According to nutritionist Leema Mahajan, these are some symptoms of chronic inflammation that indicate your body may be asking for help: 1. Brain Fog: If you find yourself forgetful, confused, or unable to focus, this could be a sign of chronic inflammation as it disrupts communication between your brain and body. 2. Skin Issues: Daily acne, eczema, or psoriasis can point to chronic inflammation. These skin problems are often triggered by poor gut health or an inflammatory diet. 3. Swelling Or Puffiness: Unexplained swelling or puffiness around your hands, face, or feet could be a major sign of inflammation caused by water retention. 4. Constant Fatigue: Chronic inflammation can interfere with your energy levels by affecting your body's ability to rest and recover, leading to ongoing exhaustion. 5. Weight Fluctuations: Sudden weight gain or loss may be linked to inflammation disrupting your metabolism, causing body weight to fluctuate. 6. Gut Problems: Persistent bloating, gas, constipation, or irregular bowel movements may be caused by inflammation in the digestive tract. 7. Joint Pain: Chronic joint pain and stiffness, especially in the knees, elbows, or other joints, is another common symptom of inflammation. Here Are 5 Superfoods To Help Manage Inflammation Nutritionist Anusha Rodrigues highlights several kitchen staples that can help reduce chronic inflammation. These five superfoods, easily found in your pantry, could be your best allies against inflammation: 1. Aloe Vera Extract: Known for reducing inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes, aloe vera extract can be consumed by mixing 30ml in water before lunch or dinner to manage inflammation effectively. 2. Peppermint Tea: Peppermint contains menthol, which helps reduce inflammation and soothes the gut lining. Drinking two cups of peppermint tea daily can significantly lower inflammation. 3. Soaked Black Raisins: This centuries-old remedy works due to antioxidants and polyphenols in black raisins that reduce inflammation. Make sure to consume both the soaked raisins and the water. 4. Ginger: A powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient, ginger contains gingerol, which reduces inflammation by calming pro-inflammatory enzymes. It is best consumed in the morning on an empty stomach. 5. Probiotics: Probiotics, the good bacteria, reduce inflammation by regulating the immune system. Including probiotic capsules or probiotic-rich foods like curd, kefir, or kimchi can support gut health and inflammation control. Diet Tips To Reduce Inflammation While adding anti-inflammatory foods is important, making dietary changes is crucial to eliminating inflammation completely. Celebrity nutritionist Rashi Chowdhary recommends these changes for better health: 1. Avoid Refined Oils: Vegetable refined oils oxidise easily, damaging your body's cells and DNA, increasing inflammation, and raising the risk of heart disease. 2. Go Gluten-Free: Removing gluten helps the gut heal and improves nutrient absorption. 3. Choose Dairy-Free Drinks: Dairy can increase blood sugar and insulin levels, leading to weight gain and health problems such as acne, PCOS, and obesity. 4. Cut Out Refined Sugar: Added sugars contribute to inflammation, obesity, and high blood pressure. Refined sugar lacks nutrients and can cause insulin resistance, cravings, and poor gut bacteria balance.
NDTV
02-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Losing Hair? This Easy Masoor Dal Salad Could Actually Help
Hair fall is something most of us go through at some point. It might be the changing weather, stress, or just plain bad luck with genes. For many, it is not just a passing phase—it sticks around. While shampoos and fancy treatments are what we turn to first, what you eat makes a much bigger difference than you think. That is right. Healthy hair starts with your plate. What you eat shows up in your strands. Iron and folic acid deficiency are often to blame for weak, thinning hair. But here is the fun part—there is a super simple salad that might actually help. A nutritionist has shared a quick Whole Masoor Dal Salad Bowl recipe that is packed with everything your hair has been asking for. But before we get to the recipe, let us break down what whole masoor dal really does for your body. Here Are 5 Health Benefits Of Whole Masoor Dal: The hero of this salad, whole masoor dal, is loaded with nutrients that your body—and hair—love. Check this out: 1. Packed With Protein Whole masoor dal is a top source of plant-based protein. It helps rebuild and repair tissue, which is exactly what your hair and skin need to stay strong and healthy. 2. High In Fibre This dal is rich in fibre, which supports better digestion and gut health. When your gut is happy, your body absorbs nutrients better, especially the ones that help your hair grow. 3. Loaded With Antioxidants Masoor dal has polyphenols and antioxidants that help your body fight off free radicals. Less stress in the body equals happier, healthier hair and skin. 4. Supports Blood Sugar Nutritionist Rupali Datta says masoor dal has a low glycaemic index, making it great for people with diabetes. She recommends eating whole dals every day to help manage sugar levels. 5. Rich In Essential Minerals Whole masoor dal is not just about iron—it also has potassium, magnesium, and zinc. These minerals are key for everything from stronger hair to better heart health. Why This Whole Masoor Dal Salad Bowl Works For Hair Fall This salad is not just tasty; it is a proper hair health booster. Nutritionist Leema Mahajan says that every 100 g of whole masoor dal gives 7.5 g of iron. Iron improves the oxygen flow to your scalp, which is crucial for healthy hair growth. That is not all. Lemon juice, bell peppers, and raw vegetables bring in vitamin C, which helps your body absorb iron better. Beetroot and masoor dal also contain folic acid, which helps raise your haemoglobin levels and prevent hair thinning. So, yes, this easy salad could be your go-to fix for hair fall—and it will leave your hair naturally shiny and strong. How To Make Whole Masoor Dal Salad Bowl | Iron-Rich Salad Recipe This salad recipe is super easy to put together. Nutritionist Leema Mahajan posted it on Instagram, and it is ideal if you want to include more iron-rich food in your diet. Here is how you do it: 1. Prepare Lentils And Veggies Start by chopping up vegetables like carrots, sweet corn, and beetroot. Soak the masoor dal, then steam it along with the veggies for about 5–8 minutes until everything is soft. 2. Make The Salad Dressing In a bowl, mix lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, cumin powder, carom seeds, pink salt, and black salt. This dressing ties all the flavours together. 3. Put It All Together Add chopped onions, cucumbers, bell peppers, and coriander leaves to a big bowl. Add the steamed lentils and veggies. Throw in some roasted peanuts and pour the dressing on top. Mix everything well and enjoy! Watch the full video below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leema Mahajan | Nutritionist & Weight loss specialist (@leemamahajan) Now that you know how to tackle hair fall with something this simple, it might be time to ditch the pills and try this salad instead. Your scalp will thank you.
Hindustan Times
30-04-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Mango myths debunked: Nutritionist shares correct ways to eat the 'king of summers'
Mangoes, despite being crowned as the king of summer fruits, have garnered a bad rep. But before we badmouth this summer royalty about its potential downsides, like weight gain and sudden sugar spike, let's take a step back. It turns out, there's a fine line between mango being a benevolent king or a tyrant to your health. And that fine line? It lies completely in your control and is drawn by you, depending on how you eat mangoes, from portion size to the right timing. So, before blaming the fruit, it's time to modify your eating habits. Nutritionist Leema Mahajan took to Instagram to share some effective tips that will help you eat mango without the guilt. A post shared by Leema Mahajan | Nutritionist & Weight loss specialist (@leemamahajan) Leema shared how completely canceling mango is not ideal, instead, a balanced and mindful approach keeps it healthy for you. She covered the key essentials that include correct portion size (hinting at a strict no-no to binge eating), ideal time of the day, and what to pair it with. Leema said, 'If anyone says avoid mangos for weight loss, control sugar levels and improve skin, avoid them, not the mango. There is a way to eat mango, not get addicted to it. Stick to 110-150 grams. Do not eat mangoes post your meal, instead ensure you eat mango at mid-morning as a snack. Alongside, take a high protein option to make mango shake.' If you have sworn off sweets, it's a reflex to frown at the sweetness of mangoes that feel loaded with calories. But maybe you can still indulge in it with control, as there's plenty of nutritional goodness in this pulpy summer fruit. Leema shared these facts about mango: ALSO READ: 5 rules to eat mangoes to prevent blood sugar spikes in people with diabetes Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
