20-07-2025
‘I am being vegetarian now': Priyanka Chopra Jonas shares her go-to meals when in India and the US; here's why they are good for you
Priyanka Chopra Jonas' shift to Hollywood might have put her on the global map, but it has surely left the Desi Girl craving for her favourite Indian dishes. During the promotion of her latest release Heads of State, she shared some of her favourite meals to indulge in while in India as well as the US.
'Dinner always starts with soup. I love having a nice, warm soup. Then, having the same that I have for lunch. It is super tasty, and healthy. Then I have various other things, I love dal, I love bhindi. I love aloo gobhi. I am being vegetarian now. Then, I always need a dahi, I love having raita and achaar is very important. Salad's very important,' she told the host.
'Now when I'm in the US, I am usually not a sandwich person. I don't like sandwiches, but I always like roast fish with veggies. I love a good, fresh salad,' she added.
Many like to begin their meals with a bowl of scrumptious and filling soup. But, turns out, apart from being an appetiser, beginning a meal with soup also has several health benefits!
Delhi-based nutritionist Pooja Bohra shared some benefits to starting your meals with a warm vegetable soup:
*It is a high source of fluids.
*Soups are healthy and nutritious.
*Soup preserves its nutritional value.
*They are full of healthy fibres.
*Soups are rich in taste.
*It is a powerhouse of antioxidants.
*Soups fill up the volume in your stomach.
*It leaves less room for more calorie-dense food item
Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator, tells 'Regular consumption of curd after lunch can significantly alter gut microbiota composition due to its probiotic content, primarily Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. These live cultures enhance beneficial bacterial populations, improving microbial diversity and suppressing harmful bacteria.
According to her, the lactic acid bacteria in curd strengthens gut barrier function, reduces inflammation, and promotes short-chain fatty acid production, which supports colon health. Curd's probiotics also improve nutrient absorption, reduce bloating, and may lower the risk of inflammatory bowel conditions by balancing gut flora.
However, pairing curd with spicy dishes may not be suitable for all. The contrast in temperature between cold curd and hot spices could lead to digestive discomfort, particularly in individuals with sensitive stomachs. 'There is no evidence suggesting that the combination is harmful. However, some individuals with sensitive stomachs might experience discomfort due to the contrasting temperatures,' she added.
Sushma PS, chief dietitian, Jindal Naturecure Institute said that salads are alkaline foods that serve as a preventive measure against acid accumulation within the body, supporting gentle detoxification processes. 'The consumption of a salad promotes gastrointestinal health by incorporating ingredients characterised by low acidity levels and rich fibre, vitamin, and mineral content, which are essential for digestive well-being,' said Sushma.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
