Simple tips to eat healthy during the lockdown

With the COVID-19 pandemic keeping us locked down at home, there have been drastic changes in our lives in the past few weeks. The only thing we can focus on is our health. While struck by boredom, all you can do is follow a healthy routine that helps you stay safe and positive throughout the day. The idler your mind is, the more you are inclined towards eating unhealthy treats and munching on junk.

Let us take a look at the healthy eating tips that you can quickly adapt to:

1. Plant protein – Legumes
It’s difficult to get your hands on meat during this lockdown. But worry not, you can stack up on proteins by opting for plant-based sources. Legumes are a rich source of protein which can be made into a variety of dishes. These sources are red kidney beans (rajma), chickpeas and black-eyed peas, Bengal gram, urad dal, masoor dal, and moong dal. You can make soups, salads, stuffings, stews, croquettes and pancakes too. There are a lot of dishes where these legumes can be easily incorporated.

2. Whole grains
It is a universal fact that whole grains are a better option to get your daily dose of nutrients instead of consuming just calories with refined grains. Inculcate the habit of picking not just brown rice or whole wheat flour, but also wholesome grains like barley, millets, couscous, wheat and quinoa. They are filled with iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, B vitamins and dietary fibre that help regulate weight, blood flow and blood pressure.

3. Fruits are necessary
Eating fruits never hurt anyone. Fruits are an indispensable part of your daily diet. They are your boost of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. While fruits like oranges and apples are a powerhouse of vitamin C, banana is necessary for your gut health. Eat it with your cereal, make a smoothie or munch on them as a mid-meal snack.

4. Nuts and more nuts
It's not without reason that health advisors advise all to include nuts in our daily diet. Nuts are an excellent source of essential nutrients like Omega 3 and Vitamin E, as well as fibre. No matter what nuts you prefer, like almonds, cashews, pistachios or exotic nuts like Macadamia, Brazil nuts and hazelnuts. You can add them in your salads and stir-fries or have them as a healthy snacking option.

5. Have some flavoured water
With the temperature reaching new records, this is the perfect time to enjoy flavoured water and stay hydrated with an extra dose of goodness. Add slices of lemon, cucumber, mint, basil or other herbs and fruits in a jug of water overnight. It will help you detox your system and make you feel rejuvenated.

6. Cool it with yoghurt
Boost your gut health with yoghurt. Also, it will help you meet your calcium requirement. Yoghurt will keep your stomach cool while also cooling your body at the same time. Drizzle a bit of honey or add in some fruits to enhance the flavour.

There's a lot you can do in this free time of lockdown. And the first thing you can start with is self-care. The ingredients in these tips are easy to find and adapt. As long as we are locked down, it is crucial you take care of yourself. Stay home and stay safe.