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Even Dieticians Follow These 10 Rules for a Healthy Weekend Diet

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fruits
Fruits (Representative Image)

We’ve all been there: from Monday through Friday, you religiously adhered to your meal plan. But in spite of your best efforts, you spent your weekend eating pizza, fries, ice cream, and other things. While there is undoubtedly room for treats in any healthy diet, it can sometimes be vital to keep a close eye on your food intake, especially on the weekends, if you’re trying to lose weight or improve your physical performance.

Many people find themselves in a never-ending loop of following their plan during the week, overindulging over the weekend, and then “resetting” on Monday. So how does repeating this harm your development, and how do you stop the cycle? To find out, we consulted nutrition experts. Here is a comprehensive list of suggestions:

Start the day with a healthy breakfast:

The first rule of a weekend diet is to start the day with a healthy breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it’s crucial to start the day on the right foot. A healthy breakfast should be rich in whole grains, fiber, and protein. For example, you can try a bowl of oatmeal with fresh fruits and nuts or a spinach and mushroom omelet with whole-grain toast.

Avoid skipping meals:

Skipping meals is never a good idea, especially during the weekend. It’s essential to maintain a regular eating schedule to keep your metabolism active and prevent overeating later in the day. Make sure to have small meals throughout the day, and include healthy snacks in between meals to avoid hunger pangs.

Plan ahead:

Planning ahead is a critical aspect of maintaining a healthy weekend diet. It’s essential to have healthy snacks and meals planned out for the weekend to avoid making impulsive, unhealthy choices. For example, you can prep your meals in advance or keep healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or protein bars within reach.

Make smart choices when eating out:

Eating out is a significant part of the weekend for most people, but it can be challenging to make healthy choices. When dining out, opt for grilled or baked dishes instead of fried, and ask for dressings and sauces on the side. You can also choose healthier options like salads, soups, or grilled chicken instead of burgers or pizzas.

Stay hydrated:

Staying hydrated is essential to maintaining a healthy diet, especially during the weekend. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help you stay full, flush out toxins, and maintain your energy levels. It’s also important to avoid sugary or high-calorie beverages like sodas or sweetened teas.

Limit alcohol consumption:

Alcohol is high in calories and can lead to poor food choices, so it’s essential to limit consumption. If you’re going to drink, make sure to choose low-calorie options like light beer or wine, and drink in moderation. It’s also important to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

Incorporate physical activity into your weekend plans:

Physical activity is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, and it’s crucial to include it in your weekend plans. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a hike, or a yoga class, physical activity is important for weight management and overall health. You can also incorporate fun activities like dancing or swimming to make it more enjoyable.

Practice mindful eating:

Mindful eating is the practice of paying attention to your hunger and fullness cues and slowing down while eating to fully enjoy your meals. It’s essential to avoid distractions like television or smartphones while eating and focus on your food. This can help you prevent overeating and make healthier food choices.

Choose healthy snacks:

Snacking is a significant part of the weekend, but it’s essential to choose healthy options. When snacking, choose whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and nuts instead of processed snacks. You can also make healthy snacks like homemade granola bars or roasted chickpeas in advance to keep you full and energized.

Practice moderation:

The final rule of a weekend diet is to practice moderation. It’s okay to indulge in your favorite treats moderation is the key to all your gluttony. It is okay to splurge on your favorite dish but the quantity should be controlled to help you with your long-term fitness goals. For example, instead of having a whole pizza try to indulge in 2-3 slices of pizza made of high protein cheese and veggie base. This way you won’t feel guilty about having the best of meals on your next weekend. 

With these suggestions try to get the best out of your weekend diet without feeling guilty about consciousness. Remember, weight loss or lifestyle changes is a journey and not a one stop end so try to enjoy every aspect of this healthy mindset journey. 

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Is alcohol free beer really non-alcoholic? What does it have?

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Alcohol-free beer, oh, what a sight,

A drink that can make my head feel light,

But without the burden of drunkenness,

Or the fear of a hangover’s bitterness.

-Anonymous Drunk poet 

Alcohol-less Beers with 0% alcohol content have been sweeping supermarkets by storm. The customers first look at them rather perplexed as their packaging is exactly the same giving it the same look and engagement as a regular beer. Naturally, this makes them buy the product guilt-free, additionally giving them the flare of an avid beer lover. This has made non-alcoholic beers popular among consumers of all ages and backgrounds.  

This market is projected to embark on its growing CAGR presence by 4.7%. Well, this stardom might not be accidental. The growing understanding of the harmful health effects of excessive alcohol intake is one of the key causes. Many people are searching for alcohol-free substitutes so they may still enjoy the taste of beer without the side effects of alcohol. For those who are designated drivers or who want to enjoy a beer after working out or throughout the workday without worrying about getting intoxicated, non-alcoholic beers are a fantastic alternative. 

Additionally, the flavour and quality of non-alcoholic beers have greatly improved, opening them up to many who had previously shied away from them owing to a perceived lack of flavour. But is alcohol-free beer really alcohol-free? What does it contain? And why has it become so popular in recent years? Let’s have a comprehensive understanding of this:

What is Alcohol-Free Beer?

Alcohol-free beer is a type of beer that has been specially brewed to contain little to no alcohol. In general, these beers contain less than 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV), which is the legal limit for a drink to be considered alcohol-free in most countries. This is significantly lower than traditional beers, which can have an ABV of 4% to 8%.

The process of brewing alcohol-free beer is similar to that of traditional beer, but with a few key differences. The primary difference is that the beer is brewed to have a lower alcohol content, typically by using a different type of yeast or by stopping the fermentation process earlier. This results in a beer that has a similar taste and aroma to traditional beer, but without the alcohol.

What Does Alcohol-Free Beer Contain?

Despite the name, alcohol-free beer may still contain small amounts of alcohol. As mentioned earlier, the legal limit for a drink to be considered alcohol-free is less than 0.5% ABV, which means that some non-alcoholic beers may still contain trace amounts of alcohol.

In addition to alcohol, alcohol-free beer contains many of the same ingredients as traditional beer. These ingredients typically include water, malted barley, hops, and yeast. Some brewers may also add other ingredients, such as fruits, spices, or herbs, to give their alcohol-free beers a unique flavour profile.

Why Has Alcohol-Free Beer Become So Popular?

Alcohol-free beer has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in countries such as the United States and Europe. There are several factors that have contributed to this trend, including:

Health and Wellness: Many people are choosing to reduce their alcohol intake for health and wellness reasons. Alcohol-free beer offers a way to enjoy the taste of beer without the negative health effects of alcohol.

Social Acceptance: Drinking alcohol-free beer is becoming more socially acceptable, particularly in situations where alcohol is typically consumed, such as parties and sporting events. This has helped to increase the popularity of alcohol-free beer among younger drinkers.

Taste and Variety: The quality and variety of alcohol-free beers have improved significantly in recent years, with many brewers offering a range of styles and flavors that rival traditional beers.

Designated Drivers: For those who are driving, or who need to stay sober for any reason, alcohol-free beer offers a way to still enjoy a beer without the risk of impaired driving or other negative consequences.

While some non-alcoholic beers may still contain trace amounts of alcohol, they have generally been considered a safer and healthier alternative to traditional beer.  Overall, the rise of non-alcoholic beers reflects a growing interest in healthier and more mindful drinking habits.

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How to buy and store your apples to keep them fresh?

An apple a day keeps a doctor and many many other problems away !!

This saying about apples has been the longest going proverb, and for some sweet strange reason, every kid and grownup remembers this more than any other such saying they have learned while growing up. 

With strong production regions in the country, Apple as a fruit is the mainstay of all households. Earlier apples used to be available across the key seasons, with modern day infrastructure, better-growing techniques, improved supply chain, we can relish apples all through the year. 

One key challenge one continues to experience is the aberration in prices of off-season fruits. Given all of the stock available in stores comes from cold stores, there are lots that can have a bad lot, which eventually makes it to the market aisle.  

On many occasions buyers, while they buy make a bad selection of the fruit, or do not have the know-how to assess the quality. While there is little one can do about it, here are the hacks that can help you buy better, and keep you safe from any untoward experience.     

While we love our apples, one of the problems that every mother or one buying groceries faces is,

Buying Apples

When buying apples, it is essential to choose ripe and healthy apples to ensure that they are fresh and flavorful. Here are some tips on what to look for when buying apples:

Look for apples with a vibrant color: Apples come in different colors, but the best ones are those with bright and vibrant colors. The color of the apple should be uniform, and there should be no bruises, blemishes, or discolorations.

Check for firmness: Apples should be firm and not soft or mushy. To check for firmness, gently press your thumb on the apple. If it leaves a dent, the apple is overripe, and if it feels hard, it is not yet ripe.

Smell the apples: Ripe apples have a sweet, fresh smell, and unripe apples have a mild smell. If the apples have a musty or moldy smell, it is an indication that they are not fresh.

Buy from a trusted source: It is essential to buy apples from a trusted source to ensure that they are fresh and of good quality.

Storing Apples

Once you have bought your apples, you need to store them properly to keep them fresh for a more extended period. Here are some tips on how to store apples:

Store apples in a cool, dark place: Apples should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight, to prevent them from ripening too quickly. A temperature range of 30 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for storing apples.

Do not store apples with other fruits: Apples release ethylene gas, which can cause other fruits to ripen too quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to store apples separately from other fruits.

Store apples in a well-ventilated place: Apples need air circulation to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to spoilage. You can store your apples in a perforated plastic bag or a fruit basket to allow air to circulate.

Check your apples regularly: It is essential to check your apples regularly for any signs of spoilage. If you notice any soft spots or brown patches, it is an indication that the apple is starting to spoil.

Caring for Apples

To ensure that your apples remain fresh and flavorful, you need to care for them properly. Here are some tips on how to care for apples:

Wash your apples before eating: Before eating or cooking with apples, it is essential to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt, wax, or pesticides.

Cut out any bruised or damaged areas: If you notice any bruised or damaged areas on your apples, you should cut them out to prevent the spoilage from spreading.

Use apples within a reasonable time frame: Apples have a shelf life of about two to three weeks, so it is essential to use them within a reasonable time frame to ensure that they remain fresh and flavorful.

Store sliced apples properly: If you have sliced apples, you can store them in a mixture of lemon juice and water to prevent them from browning.

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Do you know Nargis Fakhri’s Favourite Breakfast? The diva enjoys cooking this dish filled with healthy veggies

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Nargis Fakhri, the beautiful model-turned-actor is loved by her fans for many things. The actress appears young and fit and takes a lot of care to maintain the same. Nargis knows that looking fab and staying fit matters a lot in Bollywood and the modelling industry.

Nargis wants to stay fit and hence follows her diet strictly. She also maps her calorie intake with the help of a special app.

The actress also went on a juice detox and lost 3kg in 6 days for her movie, Main Tera Hero.

The Bollywood diva also happened to share a lot about diet and fitness through her Instagram. She was seen enjoying many diet-specific dishes along with some exotic foods often. She keeps sharing her food and fitness videos on her Instagram stories. 

Recently, the actress happened to share an Instagram story revealing her breakfast.

Nargis posted an Instagram story on 17 Feb showing her boing omelette. The omelette was filled with Green Chilli, Paneer, Coriander, Carrot and other healthy veggies. 

Nargis is a great fan of fresh vegetables and fruits, especially broccoli. She was many times caught enjoying healthy foods like boiled eggs, Vegetable soup with salad, Salmon fish with salad, mashed potatoes, and a chicken sandwich.

All these dishes are part of her strict diet and she avoids Sugar, processed foods and Aerated Drinks.

With her latest Instagram story, it is quite clear how much she loves eggs as every fan expected. 

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3 most delicious ways to add protein to your Cornflakes

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One of the most common observations of people with regard to their breakfast is that it becomes a monotonous regime for them. The same olf corn flakes and milk cannot provide them with the same nutrition, taste, and energy all days of the week. Surely, Corn flakes need to be tastier, and should give you the taste and nutrition you need to run errands all day. By adding a great source of protein to your regular cornflakes you can make it the hero of your day. Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being. Including protein in our breakfast is particularly important as it helps to provide our bodies with the energy and nutrients needed to start the day off right.

 Protein can help to stabilize our blood sugar levels, which can reduce cravings and prevent overeating later in the day. Additionally, protein can help to support muscle growth and repair, which is particularly important for those who engage in physical activity or are looking to build and maintain muscle mass.

Including protein in our breakfast is also important for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Protein is a macronutrient that is more satiating than carbohydrates or fat, meaning that it can help to keep us feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time. This can help to reduce overall calorie intake and support healthy weight loss.

There are many delicious and healthy sources of protein that can be included in our breakfast, including eggs, Greek yogurt, nut butter, and tofu. By incorporating these protein-rich foods into our morning meals, we can support our overall health and well-being while starting the day off on the right foot.

Cornflakes are a popular breakfast cereal choice for many people. They are delicious, crunchy, and convenient to prepare. However, while they are low in fat and sugar, they can be lacking in protein. Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in building and repairing tissues, and it’s also important for keeping you feeling full and satisfied throughout the day.

The good news is that there are several easy ways to add protein to your cornflakes. Here are 3 different ways to re-invent your everyday cornflakes into a protein-packed breakfast:

Greek Yogurt

One of the simplest ways to add protein to your cornflakes is by adding a dollop of Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein, with around 17 grams of protein per 100 grams. It is also a good source of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones.

To add Greek yogurt to your cornflakes, simply spoon a few tablespoons of yogurt over the top of your cereal. You can also mix the yogurt with the cornflakes for a creamier texture.

Protein Count: 17 grams per 100 grams of Greek yogurt

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are a small but mighty superfood that is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They are also an excellent source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your body from damage caused by free radicals.

To add chia seeds to your cornflakes, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of the seeds over the top of your cereal. You can also mix the chia seeds with the cornflakes for a crunchy texture.

Protein Count: 4 grams per 28 grams of chia seeds

Almond Milk

Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative to cow’s milk that is low in calories and high in protein. It is also a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin E.

To add almond milk to your cornflakes, simply pour a cup of milk over the top of your cereal. You can also mix the almond milk in with the cornflakes for a creamier texture.

Protein Count: 1 gram per 8 fluid ounces of almond milk

There are many delicious and healthy sources of protein that can be included in our cornflakes like nut butter, protein powder, and fruits. By incorporating these protein-rich foods into our morning meals, we can support our overall health and well-being while starting the day off on the right foot. So go ahead and try these simple and healthy additions to your breakfast routine and enjoy the benefits of a protein-packed breakfast!

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Blinkit launches Brand Stores to allow Brands showcase and target customers

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BlinkIt Grocery Delivery App

Blinkit, the quick commerce platform owned by Zomato, has launched a new feature called Brand Stores, which aims to help D2C startups and FMCG brands connect better with their customers. 

Through the platform, brands listed on Blinkit can create customisable pages where they can showcase their products and engage with their customers in various ways. The startup believes that the new platform will make it easier for customers to find what they are looking for and enable brands to create customer-relevant content on the Blinkit app.

Brands can create custom pages or flow on the page that allows them to highlight different products, use their design language, and design assets to make the brand store experience more immersive for their customers. The brands also get access to real-time analytics around the performance of their pages, including insights into sell-throughs and supply chain tools, giving them a real-time view of their performance across the app and various geographies.

BlinkIt, said, “We had a lot of fun building it and we hope this is a big win-win for our customers and our partner brands,”

Albinder Dhindsa, CEO of BlinkIt, said “Blinkit has become a preferred platform for advertising and engagement for over 500 brands. These brands, large and emerging, use us to build brand awareness and to also push their sales on the platform with performance advertising.”

Blinkit has been able to attract over 20 brands to create their brand pages on the platform, including popular brands such as Maggi, KitKat, Plum, Dettol, Sleepy Owl Coffee, and The Whole Truth.

This move by Blinkit follows the launch of a similar brand-specific segment, Swiggy Minis, within the app of one of its competitors, Swiggy’s Instamart. Interestingly, Blinkit’s new platform comes at a time when it has started looking at advertising income as a meaningful source of revenue.

In the third quarter of fiscal year 2023, Blinkit’s order volume grew 21% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) to 3.16 crore, offsetting the 2.6% decline in average order value (AOV) to INR 533. The startup, which is operational in over 500 localities, is looking to expand its dark stores reach by 40% in the next 12 months.

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Agritech startup Otipy aims to clock INR 200 Cr ARR; plans to raise $75 million

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inr 200cr

Agritech startup Otipy is planning to raise $75 million funding to scale up its business that is likely to grow more than 2-fold to INR 170 crore this fiscal.

Otipy is an Indian agritech startup that specializes in selling fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and groceries, online. The company was launched in 2020 and has already raised $45 million from its Series A and B funding rounds. It is now looking to raise an additional $75 million to expand its business further.

Otipy currently operates in Delhi-NCR and Mumbai and has achieved operational break-even in Delhi-NCR for the current fiscal year. The company works closely with over 1,000 resellers who connect more than 12 lakh end consumers with fresh produce at their doorstep. The startup has onboarded more than 20,000 farmers and sources fresh fruits and vegetables from multiple regions across India, including Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra.

Khurrana, said,”Our revenue is estimated to reach INR 160-170 crore in the current 2022-23 fiscal year from INR 70 crore in the previous year. We have achieved an annual run rate of INR 200 crore,” and added “We are in talks with potential investors to raise $75 million in Series C round.”

The company uses an AI-based demand prediction technology to minimize wastage and reduce it to 3-4% from 38-40%, which is the margin category for fruits and vegetables. This has helped Otipy to achieve operational break-even quickly. The startup has expanded its product offerings to include dairy, bakery, pulses, grains, spices, and other dry agri commodities.

Otipy plans to use the new funding to expand its services in multiple cities in India, including Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai, and to go international. The startup is also in the process of hiring new employees, with a goal of employing a total of 600 by March 2023. With its innovative business model and efficient use of technology, Otipy is poised for further growth and success in the years to come.

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Zomato to build Rest Points for delivery agents for mid-work relaxation

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zomato Delivery

Zomato, India’s popular food delivery firm, has recently launched a new initiative called ‘The Shelter Project’ to support gig workers and delivery partners from various companies. The project involves the creation of Rest Points, which are public facilities offering essential services such as clean drinking water, phone charging stations, washrooms, high-speed internet, a 24×7 helpdesk, and first-aid support.

The company has already set up two Rest Points in Gurugram, and they plan to build more in densely populated food delivery areas. This initiative aims to support gig workers who often work long hours and have limited access to basic amenities during their work hours. The Shelter Project aims to provide a safe and comfortable environment for gig workers, especially during their breaks.

This move comes as gig workers’ working conditions have faced criticism in India, with reports suggesting that many gig economy companies do not provide adequate support to their workers. In December 2022, a report from Fairwork India highlighted the poor working conditions provided by some companies, including ride-hailing companies like Uber and Ola, quick commerce platform Dunzo, online pharmacy PharmEasy, and delivery platform Amazon Flex. Among the top performers were Urban Company and Tata Group-owned BigBasket.

Zomato said “We believe that by providing a space for all delivery partners to rest, recharge and take a moment for themselves, we can create a better environment that promotes their physical and mental health,”

Fairwork India assesses digital platforms based on five principles, including pay, conditions, contracts, management, and representation, and awards basic and advanced points for each principle. Zomato received four points in their evaluation, while Swiggy’s rival, Zepto, received two points.

Recently, the Rajasthan government announced the Gig Workers Welfare Act, which includes the establishment of a board and a welfare fund of INR 200 crores to support gig workers. The Chief Minister, Ashok Gehlot, stated that gig workers work with companies like Ola, Uber, Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, and others, and their numbers are increasing. The Gig Workers Welfare Act aims to protect these workers from harassment and ensure their well-being.

Overall, initiatives like The Shelter Project and the Gig Workers Welfare Act are critical in providing support and protection to gig workers, who are an essential part of the Indian economy. By recognizing and addressing the needs of gig workers, companies and governments can create a more inclusive and sustainable economy for all.

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Discover the Diet that Helped Kartik Aaryan Prepare for his Role in Shehzada 

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Kartik Aaryan a.k.a the crush of many Indian girls has grown in popularity in the last couple of years. With more than 27 million Instagram followers with about 60% women, he clearly is leading the box office and popularity charts while his contemporaries are having a hard time. Of late he has been spending a lot of time in the gym, building a strong psyche for his upcoming film Shehzada, and people seem to be loving his new avatar. The expectations for all husbands and boyfriends seem to be inspired and look equally savage.  Today, to help all the men do better we have decoded Kartik Aryan’s diet in an easy step-by-step way to help you get the best of this Bollywood star. 

Read below to start your journey to be the dream man your loved one has been secretly wanting you to be:

Diet Regime:

Kartik Aaryan believes in maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, which is a combination of macronutrients and micronutrients. He believes that the key to a healthy diet is to maintain a balance between the amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Here’s a closer look at Kartik Aaryan’s diet regime:

Breakfast:

Kartik Aaryan starts his day with a nutritious breakfast, which usually consists of 4-6 egg whites, a bowl of oatmeal, and a glass of fresh juice. The egg whites provide him with the necessary protein, while the oatmeal provides him with the necessary carbohydrates and fiber to keep him energized throughout the day.

Lunch:

For lunch, Kartik Aaryan usually eats a bowl of brown rice or quinoa, a portion of grilled chicken or fish, and a bowl of green vegetables. Brown rice or quinoa provides him with the necessary carbohydrates, while grilled chicken or fish provides him with the necessary protein.

Dinner:

For dinner, Kartik Aaryan usually eats a light meal consisting of grilled fish or chicken, a bowl of green vegetables, and a glass of milk. He avoids eating heavy meals at night as it can lead to indigestion and disturb his sleep.

Snacks:

Kartik Aaryan snacks on fruits, nuts, and protein bars to keep his hunger pangs at bay.

Gym Regime:

Kartik Aaryan is a fitness enthusiast and believes in the power of regular exercise to maintain a healthy and fit body. He has been known to hit the gym regularly and follows a strict gym regime, which includes the following:

Warm-up:

Kartik Aaryan starts his workout with a 10-15 minute warm-up session to get his muscles ready for the workout.

Cardio:

Kartik Aaryan includes cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or elliptical training in his workout to improve his stamina and burn calories.

Weight Training:

Kartik Aaryan focuses on weight training to build muscle mass and increase his strength. He usually trains different muscle groups on different days to avoid overtraining.

Cool-down:

Kartik Aaryan finishes his workout with a cool-down session to stretch his muscles and avoid any injuries.

Kartik Aaryan’s diet and gym regime are perfect examples of how maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle can lead to a fit and healthy body. He follows a strict diet that is rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, and avoids junk food and processed food. His dedication and hard work have helped him achieve the physique that he has today, making him India’s national crush. So, what are you waiting for? Boys, time to show your girlfriend who the real hero is! 

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5 traditional Mahashivratri Recipes you should try while fasting

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Mahashivratri is a significant Hindu holiday that is observed by followers of Shiva all around the world. People observe Mahashivratri by fasting, reciting mantras, offering gifts to the Shiva deity, meditating, doing yoga, partaking in Bhaang, and other customs. Fasting is a crucial component of the festival celebration.

However, the Mahashivratri fast is distinct from the majority of Hindu fasts. Most fasts allow food and other items to be consumed after the Pooja, at this point the fast is deemed to be over. Nonetheless, the Mahashivratri fast continues day and night. However, there are some health advantages to fasting that you should be aware of. Here are some of the many physical advantages of fasting, in addition to the spiritual notion that doing so during Mahashivratri might atone for sins.

Since fasting is of great significance to this day many households have their own culture and tradition of preparing food for vrat.  Others just eat fruits and milk, while some follow a nirjala fast during which they do not even drink a drop of water. On certain days, some people choose to eat light, satvik foods. We have some quick and simple meals right here that you may try on the day of Maha Shivratri if you’re also intending to fast with only light eats to get through the day before you open the fast. Mahashivratri is also a great occasion to indulge in some traditional Indian cuisine, as there are many delicious dishes that are traditionally prepared during this festival. 

  1. Sabudana Khichdi:

Sabudana Khichdi is a popular fasting food that is usually consumed during the Mahashivratri fast. This dish is made from sabudana and is seasoned with cumin seeds, green chillies, roasted peanuts, and potatoes. It is a filling and nutritious dish that is perfect for a fasting day. Here are the steps to prepare Sabudana Khichdi:

Ingredients:

1 cup sabudana

1 medium-sized potato

1/4 cup roasted peanuts

1 tsp cumin seeds

2 green chillies

1 tbsp oil

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves

Steps:

  • Rinse the sabudana in a colander until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 3-4 hours.
  • Peel and dice the potato into small cubes. Finely chop the green chillies.
  • Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds to it. Once the cumin seeds crackle, add diced potatoes and cook them until they are soft.
  • Add green chillies, roasted peanuts, and salt to the pan and mix well.
  • Drain the water from the soaked sabudana and add it to the pan. Mix well.
  • Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sabudana is translucent and soft.
  • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
  • Significance:
  • Sabudana is a popular ingredient used during the Mahashivratri fast as it is rich in carbohydrates and provides energy to the body. The dish is also easy to digest and helps in keeping the stomach full for a longer period of time.
  1. Aloo Tamatar Ki Sabzi:

Aloo Tamatar Ki Sabzi is a simple yet delicious dish that is commonly prepared during the Mahashivratri fast. This dish is made with potatoes, tomatoes, and a few spices. It is a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in no time. Here are the steps to prepare Aloo Tamatar Ki Sabzi:

Ingredients:

3 medium-sized potatoes

3 medium-sized tomatoes

1 tsp cumin seeds

2 green chillies

1 tsp red chilli powder

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

1/2 tsp coriander powder

1 tbsp oil

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves

Steps:

  • Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Finely chop the green chillies.
  • Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds to it. Once the cumin seeds crackle, add diced potatoes and cook them until they are soft.
  • Add green chillies, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt to the pan and mix well.
  • Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they are soft.
  • Cook for 5-7 minutes until the potatoes are fully cooked.
  • Garnish with cilantro
  1. Sago Vada

Ingredients:

1 cup sago (sabudana)

2 potatoes, boiled and mashed

1/2 cup roasted peanuts

2 green chillies, finely chopped

1 tsp ginger, grated

1/2 tsp cumin seeds

Salt to taste

Oil for frying

Steps:

  • Rinse the sago in water until it becomes soft.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, roasted peanuts, green chillies, ginger, cumin seeds, and salt.
  • Mix in the soaked sago and knead the mixture until it forms a dough.
  • Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into vadas.
  • Heat oil in a pan and fry the vadas until they are golden brown.
  • Serve hot with mint chutney.
  • Significance:
  • Sago Vada is a popular fasting food in India. It is rich in carbohydrates and provides energy to the body during fasting. The peanuts and potatoes add protein and fiber to the dish.
  1. Sweet Potato Halwa

Ingredients:

2 sweet potatoes, grated

1/2 cup ghee

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 tsp cardamom powder

1/4 cup chopped nuts

Steps:

  • Heat ghee in a pan and add the grated sweet potatoes.
  • Cook the sweet potatoes for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add milk and sugar to the pan and stir until the sugar dissolves.
  • Cook for another 10-15 minutes until the halwa thickens and the sweet potatoes are fully cooked.
  • Add cardamom powder and chopped nuts to the pan and mix well.
  • Serve hot.
  • Significance:
  • Sweet Potato Halwa is a popular dessert made during Mahashivratri. It is a rich source of energy and is a great way to end a day of fasting. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making this dish a healthy treat.
  1. Masala Puri

Ingredients:

1 cup wheat flour

1/2 tsp cumin seeds

1/2 tsp coriander powder

1/2 tsp red chilli powder

Salt to taste

Oil for frying

  • Steps:
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour, cumin seeds, coriander powder, red chilli powder, and salt.
  • Add water and knead the mixture until it forms a dough.
  • Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into puris.
  • Heat oil in a pan and fry the puris until they are golden brown.
  • Serve hot with chutney.
  • Significance:

Masala Puri is a traditional snack that is commonly prepared during Mahashivratri. It is a filling and nutritious dish that is perfect for a day of fasting. The spices in the dish also aid digestion and help in keeping the body warm.

On Maha Shivratri, give these vrat-friendly meals a try at home and share your results in the comments section below.

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