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Nurturing your body with the right food

Pooja Makhija Consulting Nutritionist And Clinical Dietitian

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Many people say that consuming ‘heat’ causing like chocolates is not a good idea when one has their periods as it increases period pain. Is there any truth to this?
—Roma

Simply put menstruation is the shedding of the uterine lining by your body as it prepares for a pregnancy every month but is unsuccessful. Periods can be painful accompanied by cramps and cravings—all of which can be alleviated with a healthier diet. Lean protein works best to keep the cravings and pain at bay—egg whites, chicken, fish, dals and sprouts are some fundamental options. When your diet lacks the required protein, the body manifests it as sugar cravings thus the better the quality and quantity of protein in your diet the lesser the dependence on the muffins and sheera. Vitamin B6—pyridoxine also plays a crucial role in the water retention, chest soreness and mood swings that are often accompanied in this monthly package—including foods like broccoli, tomatoes, corn, fish, sunflower seeds or then taking an oral B6 supplement can help tremendously. Magnesium and potassium rich food help in reducing menstrual cramps—bananas, sweet potatoes, avocados, beans, tofu are all friends that help. Nutritionally, I have no knowledge of how chocolates or any other ‘heat’ causing foods increase pain thus I refrain from any comment.

I want to go on a vegan diet, but many of my friends have advised me against it. What is your take on this? What are the pros and cons of a vegan diet. What are the factors I should consider before opting for it?
—Harish S

Every diet has its set of pros and cons. Being vegan helps one maintain a healthier body—helping ward off diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart disease as it completely eliminates any animal fat or protein. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes—these are the exclusive vegan club members— contain no cholesterol and are low in fats especially saturated fats. They are also fibre and vitamin rich. The only areas of concern in a vegan diet is the bio-availability of vitamin B12 and good quality protein. Vitamin B12 is only found in animal foods and thus vegans have a high risk of developing the deficiency. Proteins sources in the vegan diet include soyabean, quinoa, lentils, nuts, tofu among others but sometimes the overall quantity and quality to achieve becomes a task. Weigh your options and make an informed lifestyle change that helps you nurture a healthy body and mind. Good luck!
(Mail your queries at: dnahealthpage@gmail.com; you can contact Pooja at: admin@poojamakhija.com)

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