The monsoon season is all about relaxing and enjoying the weather while munching on some warm, spicy treats. We all know, however, that these treats are fried, oily, and unhealthy. So, what if we told you that leading a healthy lifestyle is as easy as making the appropriate dietary choices?
It all boils down to eating at least one nutritious meal per week in proportion to the rest of your meals. It's crucial to recognise that desires for junk food, fried food, and desserts may pop up from time to time, and it's fine to have a few cheat days. Because good health is a result of discipline, sticking to a consistent diet plan can keep you out of trouble. Squeezing little amounts of fruits into your daily meals is one such approach.
The kick-starters: Always choose healthy breakfast selections. Your body will feel much fresher and lighter if you start your day on a better note.
Oats and more — Oats are a popular breakfast ingredient since they are quick and simple to prepare. But why eat plain oats when you can make a nutritious fruit feast out of them? When coupled with your favourite fruit toppings, oats make a delicious breakfast. Banana slices, blueberries, and dry fruits like dates, cashews, and almonds pair well with oats and milk. These fruits not only enhance the flavour, but they also turn it into a full-fledged healthy meal that may keep you going for lengthy periods of time.
Pancakes — While banana pancakes are a must-try, did you know you can customise the recipe with different fruits? Fresh blueberries can be added to the batter or directly over the pan while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same. The wet blueberry flavour blends beautifully with the combination, giving it a delectable taste!
At midday, keep it light: Afternoons can be tight, so a fast smoothie will keep you satisfied.
Smoothie with apples and avocados - The calming elements and nutritional benefits make it a great choice for a slow monsoon afternoon. 1 avocado, 2 medium apples, and a banana are the ingredients (optional). Chop the fruits into small bits before blending them with milk, soy milk, or even coconut water to make a smooth paste.
Cherry or raspberry smoothie - A smooth, delicious blend of frozen cherry or raspberries, yoghurt, milk, and ice. This dish is simple to prepare and doesn't require much effort. Taste and add a touch of honey if desired. 300 grammes of cherries or raspberries, 200 grammes of yoghurt, 1 cup chilled milk, and 1 teaspoon honey (optional). Arils or chia seeds can be sprinkled on top!
Evenings are perfect for snacking, so indulge in that dessert you've been admiring or those spicy monsoon snacks your mother prepared for you. There is, however, always a healthy option:
Fruit chaat - Chop all of your favourite sweet fruits in a bowl and season evenly with salt and pepper. Fruit chat is a quick way to satisfy your appetite, but it's best to eat fruits earlier in the evening rather than later.
You may enjoy cheat days without feeling guilty if you make good nutritious choices. The idea is to eat at least one meal that provides you with your daily nutritional needs. Following a well-balanced diet will help you keep track of your eating habits and avoid the guilt that comes with overeating and making poor health decisions. A healthy lifestyle can be as simple as this; it all depends on how you strike the right balance.