Customizing a healthy diet for weight loss, immunity and staying healthy  |  Photo Credit: iStock Images
New Delhi: In unprecedented times like these, good health has become of utmost priority to most families. But if I ask you the meaning of good health and what you are doing to achieve the same; the most obvious answer I get is that I am trying to maintain a balance by eating healthy food and exercising. Yes, eating healthy is the right choice, but how do we judge if our food choices are actually right for our bodies? Dr Amol Raut, CEO, Genetic Healing shares how you can and must do so.
The science of genetics has proven that each person is unique and so is their response to certain lifestyle disorders. Hence, the term healthy eating only stands relevant, if healthy food is consumed based on one’s body type and requirement. The immune system is a combination of different kind of cells that protect the body from germs, viruses and other invaders. These cells need to co-exist in a certain balance for good health to be maintained. Many factors, including diet and excess body fat, can tip this balance.
Diet plan for immunity boosting is a combination of several elements. The primary ones include calories, oxidative stress, vitamins, inflammation and detoxification. Coincidentally, the initials of each of these words when combined, make the word COVID. A diet that congregates the power of these elements surely boosts immunity and helps fight infections.
Many of us tend to avoid calories influenced by prevalent myths about weight loss, but the fact is lesser calories means inadequate intake of vitamins and minerals which can affect immunity adversely. Simple carbs like sugar, honey as well as fats like ghee, oil are an important fuel for the body.
We all know about mental stress, but what is oxidative stress? Simply put, our body generates oxygen-containing molecules known as free radicals. With an excess of these radicals, we face oxidative stress. Consumption of antioxidants, which can be found in foods rich in Vitamin A, E and C along with green leafy vegetables and non-veg foods, can help maintain the required balance in our body.
Vitamins are important for our body, and we all know that. But it is important to know which of those have a greater impact. Vitamin D, B6 and Zinc are important for boosting immunity. We can easily get these through direct sunlight and through foods like whole grain, dark chocolate, avocado, mushrooms, chickpeas and bananas.
Our body has the built-in ability to fight against certain kind of infections and injuries, which is only possible if the inflammation is under control. Omega 3 fatty acids, curcumin, Vitamin A, E & C are essential foods in this direction. Lastly, our body also needs to rid itself of the toxins created by the body due to natural processes. This is largely dependent on a healthy lifestyle which aids detoxification. Not just food, but ones sleeping patterns and water intake also contribute towards this process. So sleep well, drink enough water, especially during the hotter summer months.
Before opting for any healthy fad or diet, it is important to dig deeper and analyze your body with the help of experts. Once you know what makes you, the answer to what can strengthen you is at your fingertips.
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Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a professional healthcare provider if you have any specific questions about any medical matter.
