Antioxidants & Boosting Your Immune System
Brief Introduction/Tell Us About yourself (where you are from, etc)
Born in India, but brought up in America, my life consists of an interesting mixture of two cultures. The most fascinating part of growing up in two cultures is being exposed to two vastly different cuisines. While at home I would eat Indian food, I would be exposed to an array of a melting pot outside which really helped me develop my palette and my interest in learning about different foods. I pride myself on being a dietitian and love to use my knowledge to help with follow a healthy lifestyle, however, I am equally passionate about foods and am a complete foodie! I believe in the 90/10 rule where if 90% of your diet is filled with healthy and wholesome foods, then 10% can be foods from the "fun zone!" I love learning and trying various foods from different cultures and also exploring the superfoods of the world!
Why did you decide to pursue a career in nutrition?
I was initially planning on going into physical therapy. While I have great respect for what physical therapists do, it was just not the right fit for me. During my Bachelor's, when I was taking my prerequisite courses to get into a PT program, I took my first nutrition course and I felt like I instantly found my calling. What intrigued me the most about nutrition is the power that eating the right foods and following a healthy lifestyle can have on your quantity and quality of life. It is so important to put the right stuff into your body and treat your body like your temple and worship it. I wanted to take this knowledge that I obtained and spread it to various people and encourage them to treat their bodies with respect and nourish them with only the best.
What kind of training did you undergo/certification you received?
I completed my Bachelor of Science in Health Science after which I did my Coordinated Program in Dietetics to take my licensure exam to become a registered dietitian. Alongside that, I also completed my Master's in Nutrition and Food Science.
What do people look for in a health coach, nutritionist or dietician?
The ability to connect with their dietitian or health coach and form a sense of trust with them is extremely important in forming a great relationship with them.
If you could persuade people to change three things about their diet, what would they be?
1. Incorporate more vegetables, especially leafy greens, in your diet in any way you like
2. Don't follow a diet which limits you from eating only foods of a certain kind. Having a balanced diet filled with fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and lean protein is the best way to nourish your body and be fit!
3. Try cooking at home more and exploring different healthy recipes. You will be surprised at how fast you will start enjoying home-cooked meals more than take out!
On the topic of diets, any weight-loss tips for our readers?
The best way to lose weight is gradual. While some fad diets may help you lose a lot of weight at once, it is hard to maintain that weight loss over a longer period of time. The best way to lose weight is to do a whole lifestyle change instead of just relying on quick fixes.
How important is it to properly hydrating throughout the day?
Extremely important! Staying hydrated is extremely important for all the organs in the body to work efficiently and effectively. The most prominent effects of dehydration can show on the brain, so it is really crucial to make sure your body is staying hydrated throughout the day.
How much water should someone drink in a day?
This varies person by person. The best rule of thumb to remember is to drink when you are thirsty and not force yourself to drink too much if your body is telling you to stop. On average, you should be consuming a minimum of 5-8 glasses of water a day.
Plant-based living is becoming more and more popular. When eating a mostly plant-based / vegetarian diet, are there certain foods to focus on to make sure we’re getting enough nutrients and protein?
Legumes, seeds, and beans are one of the healthiest plant-based foods that are packed with not only protein but other essential vitamins and minerals. Hemp seeds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are very nutrient-dense and also an excellent source of protein.
Speaking of plant-based, what are some of the benefits of drinking chlorophyll water/benefits of liquid chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll water has topical benefits and can act as a skin protector, especially in wounds. It helps to reduce bacteria and decrease inflammation on the skin.
Additionally, chlorophyll water may aid in weight loss, liver detoxification, and to improve the quality of the red blood cells in the blood. However, more research is needed for conclusive benefits.
Chlorophyll water may stimulate enzymes in the body that fight off aging and may also might off free radicals, which are associated with accelerated aging.
Best ways to boost your immune system?
- Eat a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables
- Incorporate spices in the diet, especially turmeric and ginger
- Eat foods rich in probiotics
- Exercise regularly
What’s your favorite source of antioxidants that you recommend?
Blueberries are one of the most powerful antioxidant sources and one of my personal favorites.
What’s one of your favorite organic/natural supplements or vitamins you recommended?
Ashwagandha is great for easing stress and anxiety.
Any favorite health/nutrition podcasts or books you recommend to our readers?
How Not to Die by Michael Greger is one of my favorite reads on a healthy lifestyle! It has powerful messages of why putting the right foods in your body is one of the best things you can do for it,
Where can our readers find you? (Instagram, Facebook, etc)
