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7th Annual Spice Meet to take place in Mumbai; Various Spice Industry Stakeholders in the country to attend

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indian specy

The Federation of Indian Spice Stakeholders (FISSH) is a national association that was established to bring together farmers, traders, processors, manufacturers, exporters, and other members of the spice community from various parts of India to create a sustainable ecosystem for the growth and development of the spice trade and its exports. The association has its head office in Unjha, Gujarat and is led by a group of experts, stakeholders, and pioneers in the spice trade.

One of FISSH’s initiatives is to offer practical training to students of agricultural universities. The training involves field visits for physical and scientific crop surveys of seed spices like cumin, coriander, fennel, and fenugreek. These visits are conducted in coordination with farmers from Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, under the guidance of faculty members, experts from the spice trade, and exporters. This practical training helps students to gain hands-on experience and learn about the best practices in the spice trade.

FISSH’s flagship event, The Annual Spice Meet, is now in its 7th edition and is scheduled to be held for the first time in Mumbai on March 3 and 4, 2023 at Hotel Leela, Sahar Andheri. This event is a platform for members of the spice community to come together and discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the industry.

Federation chairman Devendra Patel said that India’s export during 2021-22 of seed spices segment consisting of cumin seed, coriander, fennel and fenugreek is INR 4500 crores valued at $0.60 billion and consisting of 3.38 lakhs tons , which has a significant contribution to the export of overall spices segment from India valued at $4.13 billion.

At the Annual Spice Meet, FISSH will unveil the Crop Survey Report 2023, which will provide insights into the crop yields and production trends of various seed spices. In addition, the Legends of the Spice Trade will be recognized and honored for their contribution to the growth and development of the spice trade. Awards will also be conferred to top achievers in domestic and international trade, young budding entrepreneurs for their success and achievements, and farmers for their good agricultural practices, organic farming, and IPM farming.


FISSH is working towards creating a sustainable and vibrant ecosystem for the growth and development of the spice trade in India, and the Annual Spice Meet is an important event for members of the community to come together and collaborate towards this goal.

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USAID Official visits Sri Lanka to assess Food security and Nutritions requirements

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Stephanie Wilcock, Director for Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), recently visited Sri Lanka to learn about the food and nutrition needs of poor rural communities. During her visit, Wilcock met with community members to understand their struggles and learn how the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is using US-funded programs to help alleviate their challenges.

One of the communities Wilcock visited was Rathnapura, where she met with families who are facing food insecurity due to high food prices and unemployment. These families will soon receive US-funded cash assistance from the WFP worth LKR 20,000 (approximately US$55) per month for four consecutive months. This cash assistance will empower them with the choice to meet their essential needs in local markets, while also helping to boost the local economy.

The United States has been a significant contributor to Sri Lanka’s emergency operation requirement, having provided US$20 million (LKR 7.3 billion) in funding in 2022. This funding accounts for nearly one-third of Sri Lanka’s emergency operation requirement. With these funds, the WFP can provide cash, food assistance, and value vouchers to food-insecure families in Sri Lanka. In addition, the WFP can also support national food and nutrition programs, including school meals and Thriposha, a fortified blended food product for pregnant and nursing mothers and young children.

USAID’s support for the Sri Lankan government through the WFP has helped improve the country’s capacity in disaster risk management, particularly against natural hazards. During her visit, Wilcock also visited an emergency operations center in Rathnapura to observe how US funding has enabled the development of district-level emergency coordination systems. These systems provide timely information to safeguard communities from natural hazards such as floods and landslides.

“Sri Lanka continues to experience significantly high levels of food insecurity, affecting over 30 percent of the population, most notably among the poor” said Gerard Rebello, Acting Country Director for WFP Sri Lanka. “We are extremely grateful for the invaluable support from the Government and people of the United States, which has been critical in enabling WFP to expand its emergency assistance. The funding from USAID will help WFP address humanitarian needs and prevent food insecurity from deteriorating further.”

Since June 2022, the WFP has reached two million people through its emergency operation, with plans to reach 3.4 million people with food and nutrition assistance in the coming months. The WFP has been able to provide this assistance thanks to funding from donors like the US. Their programs not only provide immediate relief to those in need but also help build resilience and prepare communities for future crises.

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Perfect Salad with A Sweet Note, Covid-infected Woman receives a warm gesture from her Son

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The act of taking care of a sick loved one is a selfless and kind gesture, and it is often associated with parents taking care of their children. But in the case of Erin Reed, her son took the initiative to care for her when she was down with COVID-19, showcasing a beautiful display of affection and care.

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The photo shared on social media showed a small tiffin with a few strands of noodles and raw spinach leaves, along with a fork and a note that read “I made this for you! If it is not perfect, I am sorry.” This simple act of kindness and thoughtfulness touched the hearts of many who saw it, and it quickly went viral on the internet.

The tweet received over 2.9 million views, with many people sharing their own stories of cooking for their parents, especially during times of sickness. It served as a reminder that small acts of kindness, such as cooking a meal or leaving a note, can make a significant impact on someone’s day and help lift their spirits during a difficult time.

While many shared their heartwarming stories of cooking for their loved ones, there were also some who had less-than-perfect experiences. One user shared a memory of when he was five years old and his pregnant mother was on bed rest. He would come home from kindergarten and make her lunch, but unfortunately, it was not up to her standards, causing her to become frustrated and ultimately get up from bed rest.

Nevertheless, the overall response to Erin’s son’s gesture was overwhelmingly positive, and it served as a beautiful reminder of the power of love, care, and kindness.

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Indian Startup creates world’s First Sunglasses made With recycled Chips Packets

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The issue of plastic waste has long been a cause for concern, with the amount of plastic waste generated each year globally reaching staggering levels. Much of this waste ends up in landfills or in the world’s oceans, polluting the environment and harming wildlife. While recycling is a potential solution to the problem, plastic waste is notoriously difficult to recycle, and much of it is simply incinerated or ends up in landfills.

In a pioneering move towards a more sustainable future, an Indian company called Ashaya has made an innovative breakthrough in recycling plastic waste. The company has found a way to recycle multi-layer plastic (MLP), which is commonly used in food packaging, and turn it into stylish and trendy sunglasses.

Anish Malpani, the founder of the startup shared a video on Twitter revealing the entire process of turning MLP into sunglasses. “This has been the hardest thing I have ever been a part of. Finally: Presenting the world’s first recycled sunglasses made from packets of chips, right here in India!” he wrote in the caption. 

The process is a result of two years of research in Ashaya’s laboratory in Pune. The team at Ashaya has discovered a way to cut through the multi-layer plastic and transform it into a durable, UV-polarised material that can be used to make high-quality sunglasses. These sunglasses are not only fashionable, but they also provide a sustainable solution to the problem of plastic waste.

By converting plastic waste into something useful and desirable, Ashaya has found a way to combat the problem of plastic waste in a new and innovative way. The company’s work not only addresses the environmental impact of plastic waste but also offers an example of how technology and creativity can be harnessed to create sustainable solutions to environmental problems.

The success of Ashaya’s breakthrough offers hope that more innovative and sustainable solutions can be found for tackling environmental problems, and provides an example for other companies to follow. By reducing waste, promoting sustainability, and creating a product that is both stylish and functional, Ashaya has set a new standard for environmentally-conscious businesses.

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Virat Kohli Never wants to eat this Food and You will relate to it as well

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Virat Kohli is an Indian cricketer who is widely regarded as one of the best batsmen in the world. He has always been open about his love for food and has often talked about how his diet and food choices help him maintain his fitness levels. In the past, he has also revealed that he is a foodie and enjoys trying new dishes whenever he gets a chance.

Despite being committed to professional cricket, Kohli admits to indulging in junk food occasionally. However, during the second Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Kohli’s viral reaction to one of his favourite dishes, “Cholle Kulche,” became the talk of the town. A video of him enjoying the dish during the match went viral, and fans couldn’t get enough of his love for food.

https://sports.ndtv.com/india-vs-australia-2023/india-vs-australia-virat-kohli-fumes-in-dressing-room-after-controversial-dismissal-in-2nd-test-watch-3793659

Kohli said “It was fried, I ate and hated it”

In a recent video posted on social media, Kohli shared some interesting facts about his food preferences. During an “Ask Me Anything” session on Instagram, he revealed that he is a vegetarian now and that there is one dish he will never eat in his life, which is “Karela,” also known as bitter gourd. He also shared details about the weirdest dish he had ever tried, which was some kind of insect in Malaysia.

He also added “Back in the day, I would wear shoes which had heel all over. When I look back at it, I can’t imagine myself wearing those again,” Mr Kohli said. He also added that he experiments with printed shirts which “can kind of look desperate at times”.

Kohli’s dedication to his fitness regime is well-known, and he attributes a lot of it to his food choices. He has also talked about the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and how it has helped him improve his performance on the field. His love for food is evident, and he has often talked about how he enjoys trying new dishes from different parts of the world.

Virat Kohli’s love for food is widely known, and he has always been open about his food preferences. His recent revelation about being a vegetarian and his dislike for bitter gourd has sparked a lot of interest among his fans. His dedication to his fitness and his love for food is an inspiration to many, and it shows that a balanced diet is essential for a healthy and active lifestyle.

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How to build a digital strategy for your Cloud Kitchen? Challenges and Solutions!  

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Post-pandemic the food industry has witnessed a significant shift in the cloud kitchens segment. More restaurants are picking this business model to cut high upfront and maintenance costs along with a road map to deliver through multiple locations.

With the rise of food delivery apps and the pandemic pushing people to order food online, cloud kitchens have become a popular option for many entrepreneurs in terms of costs, flexibility, and scalability.  However, the crowded space can be challenging to navigate with its own difficulties. 

Brands spend heavily on marketing and digital presence to wand their competitors off and attract more leads. Therefore, it is essential to have a digital strategy that can help your cloud kitchen stand out from the competition. 

Today, businesses need to fight a greater level of competition as online ordering has put far more restaurants on the radar. So, how does one stand out and avoid major roadbumps to start a smooth and successful cloud kitchen business? We have built a digital strategy for your cloud kitchen and the challenges and solutions you should be looking for this highly competitive space 

Step 1: Define Your Target Audience

The first step in building a digital strategy for your cloud kitchen is to define your target audience. You need to know who your customers are and what they want. This will help you create a marketing strategy that resonates with them. To identify your target audience, you can conduct market research, analyze data from food delivery apps, or create customer personas.

Step 2: Establish Your Online Presence

Your online presence is critical to the success of your cloud kitchen. You need to have a website that showcases your menu, pricing, and delivery options. It is also essential to have a social media presence where you can interact with your customers, share promotions, and respond to customer queries. Additionally, you should also consider listing your cloud kitchen on popular food delivery apps like Zomato, Uber Eats, and Swiggy.

Step 3: Create a Marketing Strategy

Once you have established your online presence, the next step is to create a marketing strategy that promotes your cloud kitchen. You need to develop a branding strategy that resonates with your target audience. This can include creating a unique logo, designing a visually appealing website, and using social media to share engaging content. Additionally, you should consider running online advertisements and partnering with influencers to increase your reach.

Step 4: Optimize Your Menu for Online Ordering

When it comes to cloud kitchens, the menu is the most critical component of your business. You need to optimize your menu for online ordering by making it visually appealing and easy to navigate. Additionally, you should consider offering promotions and discounts to encourage customers to order more items from your menu.

Challenges in the Cloud Kitchens Playground

The crowded space of cloud kitchens can present several challenges. Some of the common challenges are:

Competing with Established Brands: Established brands like McDonald’s and Pizza Hut dominate the food industry. It can be challenging to compete with their name recognition, resources, and advertising budgets.

Keeping Up with Technology: Technology is continuously evolving, and cloud kitchens need to keep up to stay relevant. Keeping up with the latest technologies and adapting to new trends can be a challenge for small businesses.

Meeting Customer Expectations: Customers have high expectations when it comes to the quality of food and service they receive. With so many options available, cloud kitchens need to provide excellent service and consistently high-quality food to stay competitive.

Solutions to Overcome Challenges

Focus on Your Unique Selling Proposition: Identify what makes your cloud kitchen unique and focus on that to stand out from established brands.

Invest in Technology: Embrace technology and invest in the latest software and tools to stay ahead of the competition.

Prioritize Customer Service: Focus on providing excellent customer service to differentiate your cloud kitchen from others. This can include offering personalized recommendations, responding to feedback, and resolving customer complaints promptly.

Building a digital strategy for your cloud kitchen is essential for its success. Therefore, make sure you plan well ahead in time, keep your comepttiors in mind and have courage in your heart to start this amazing journey of entrepreneurship ahead, 

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Best North Indian Restaurants in the US That will take you back Home

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When it comes to Indian food abroad, the US harbors one of the best North Indian cuisines with a wide range of restaurants and experimental dining. It’s understandable that people can’t get enough of it given the delectable curries, thick bread, and rich, toasty spices.

Furthermore, who doesn’t enjoy fantastic naan bread, let’s face it? North Indian food offers something for everyone, whether you’re a veggie, carnivore, or somewhere in between. And if you’re feeling very daring, go ahead and order that lamb vindaloo; it will undoubtedly blow your mind (and maybe even your taste buds). 

Head to one of these best North Indian restaurants the next time you’re in the mood for some genuinely amazing food, and be ready to be amazed. 

Amma’s Kitchen – Jersey City, New Jersey

Amma’s Kitchen is a family-owned restaurant that offers a variety of North Indian dishes, including curries, biryanis, and tandoori dishes. The restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients and its use of traditional cooking techniques, which result in dishes that are bursting with flavor. Some of the must-try dishes at Amma’s Kitchen include butter chicken, lamb vindaloo, and naan bread. 

Address: 246 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302

Website: http://ww5.ammaskitchenus.com/?&

Price Range: $10 – $15

Saffron Indian Bistro – San Carlos, California

Saffron Indian Bistro is a popular North Indian restaurant located in San Carlos, California. The restaurant offers a wide range of dishes, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, and is known for its use of fresh and high-quality ingredients. Some of the standout dishes at Saffron Indian Bistro include chicken tikka masala, lamb rogan josh, and the tandoori chicken. 

Address: 1143 San Carlos Ave, San Carlos, CA 94070

Website: https://www.saffronindianbistro.com/

Price Range: $15 – $25

Punjab Grill – Washington D.C.

Punjab Grill is a high-end North Indian restaurant located in Washington D.C. The restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience, with elegant decor and attentive service. The menu at Punjab Grill is inspired by the cuisine of the Punjab region and includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Some of the must-try dishes at Punjab Grill include butter chicken, lamb chops, and tandoori prawns.

Address: 427 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20004

Website: https://www.punjabgrilldc.com/

Price Range: $20 – $35

Tamarind – New York City, New York

Tamarind is a Michelin-starred North Indian restaurant located in New York City. The restaurant offers a fine-dining experience, with an elegant atmosphere and exceptional service. The menu at Tamarind is inspired by the cuisine of the North Indian Mughal Empire and includes a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Some of the standout dishes at Tamarind include lamb chops, tandoori lobster, and biryani. 

Address: 99 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013

Website: https://tamarindrestaurantsnyc.com/

Price Range: $25 – $40

Make sure you try our recommendations and give these amazing culinary institutions a try. Remember, there is no correct way to enjoy Indian food, eat with your hands, spoon, or fork, just splurge on it.

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A Quick Guide to Launch and boost Your Home Meal Delivery Business

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Are you passionate about cooking? Do your friends and family always compliment you on your culinary skills? Have you ever thought about starting your own meal delivery service from home?

With the growing demand for healthy and convenient meal options, there has never been a better time to turn your passion for cooking into a profitable business. We have created a guide for you and detailed steps to start your own home meal delivery service and make your dream a reality.

Step 1: Develop a menu

The first step in starting a home meal delivery service is to develop a menu. Start by considering your strengths as a chef and the types of dishes you enjoy cooking the most. Consider the dietary needs and preferences of your potential customers, such as vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb options. Research your competition to see what they are offering and identify any gaps in the market. Once you have a menu in place, test your dishes with friends and family to get feedback and make any necessary adjustments.

Step 2: Get the necessary permits and licenses

Before starting your meal delivery service, it is important to ensure that you have all the necessary permits and licenses. Depending on your location, you may need a food service establishment permit, a food handler’s permit, or a cottage food permit. You will also need to register your business and obtain liability insurance. Check with your local health department and small business administration to determine the specific requirements in your area.

Step 3: Set up your kitchen

Your kitchen will be the heart of your home meal delivery service, so it is important to make sure it is equipped with everything you need. Ensure that you have all the necessary cooking equipment, utensils, and storage containers. You will also need to invest in high-quality food packaging to ensure your meals arrive at your customers’ doors in pristine condition. Consider investing in a website to take orders and track your inventory.

Step 4: Create a pricing structure

Determine how much you will charge for your meals, taking into account your food costs, labor, and overhead expenses. Consider offering meal plans, weekly specials, and discounts for bulk orders. Remember to keep your prices competitive and reasonable for your target market.

Step 5: Develop a delivery system

Your meal delivery service will only be successful if you have a reliable and efficient delivery system in place. Consider hiring a delivery driver, using a third-party delivery service, or delivering the meals yourself. Make sure to have a clear system in place for taking orders, preparing the meals, and delivering them to your customers on time.

Step 6: Promote your business

Now that you have everything in place, it’s time to start promoting your business. Consider using social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your meals and reach potential customers. Partner with local businesses, gyms, and health food stores to reach a wider audience. Consider offering a referral program to encourage satisfied customers to spread the word about your service.

And lastly, have confidence in your skills and ability to juggle multiple things at once. 

Starting a home meal delivery service can be a great way to turn your passion for cooking into a profitable business. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a successful meal delivery service that provides healthy, convenient, and delicious meals to your customers. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful home chef and business owner.

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Maximizing Your Cheat Meals: 3 Mistakes You should avoid now

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Let’s admit It is extremely challenging to resist eating a range of junk and unhealthy foods while trying to lose weight. But there are times when it feels wonderful to let go, to stop fighting everything, and to simply go with your gut. 

A cheat meal is a reward for eating healthily and staying active all week or all month. As a reward, you might be permitted to relax your food restrictions and indulge in everything you like. As a result, you eat anything you want to satisfy your appetite and then go back to your healthy diet with new energy and enthusiasm.

Cheat days and cheat meals are a great way to maintain balance in your life. Indulging in cheat meals can be helpful because restricting yourself every day can make you feel like you’re struggling. On the other side, going overboard with cheat meals will stall your progress and perhaps cause you to regress a few steps. Here are a few mistakes you should avoid with your cheat meals to keep your lifestyle goals active and steady

Mistake #1: Making Cheat Meals Too Frequent

One of the biggest mistakes people make with their cheat meals is making them too frequent. While it’s okay to indulge in your favorite foods every once in a while, having cheat meals too often can lead to overeating, weight gain, and even guilt. If you’re having cheat meals every day or multiple times a week, you’re not really “cheating” anymore. Instead, you’re just undermining all the hard work you’ve put into your diet and fitness routine.

The Fix: Schedule Cheat Meals Wisely

To avoid this mistake, it’s important to schedule your cheat meals wisely. A good rule of thumb is to have a cheat meal once a week, or at most twice a week. This way, you can still enjoy your favorite foods without overdoing it. Additionally, it’s essential to plan ahead for your cheat meals, so you can make sure you’re not derailing your progress.

Mistake #2: Overdoing It with Portion Sizes

Another mistake people make with their cheat meals is overdoing it with portion sizes. It’s easy to get carried away with your favorite foods, especially if you haven’t had them in a while. But eating too much of anything, even if it’s a “cheat” food, can lead to discomfort, bloating, and even guilt.

The Fix: Practice Portion Control

To avoid this mistake, it’s essential to practice portion control. This means taking the time to measure your food and being mindful of how much you’re eating. You can still enjoy your favorite foods but in moderation. Additionally, it’s a good idea to eat slowly and savor each bite, so you can truly appreciate the flavors and textures of your meal.

Mistake #3: Using Cheat Meals as an Excuse to Binge

The final mistake people make with their cheat meals is using them as an excuse to binge. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “I’ll start my diet again tomorrow,” and then eating everything in sight. But this mentality can lead to unhealthy eating habits, guilt, and a negative relationship with food.

The Fix: Change Your Mindset

To avoid this mistake, it’s essential to change your mindset around cheat meals. Instead of thinking of them as a “free pass” to eat whatever you want, think of them as an opportunity to enjoy your favorite foods without guilt or shame. Remember, one meal won’t make or break your progress, so there’s no need to go overboard. Additionally, it’s a good idea to focus on the quality of your food, rather than the quantity. Choose foods that are high in nutrients and flavor, so you can truly enjoy your meal.

Cheat meals can be a great way to stay on track with your diet while satisfying your cravings. Remember, a healthy diet is all about balance, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you slip up. Just get back on track and keep moving!

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Boxing Superstar Mary Kom’s diet that fuels her peak performance and fitness

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Boxing requires a high level of physical fitness and endurance. The physical demands of the sport necessitate a strict diet and nutrition plan to support the athletes’ training and fight schedules. But, boxing has long been regarded as a male-dominated sport. However, the last few decades have witnessed a surge in the popularity of women’s boxing. Female boxers are now getting their due, and some of them have managed to carve out a niche for themselves in this highly competitive world of sports.

Among many female boxers in India, Mary Kom is a true inspiration. Mary Kom popularly referred to as “Magnificent Mary. She has achieved great success during her lengthy career and has significantly improved women’s boxing in India and throughout the world.


From world titles to Olympics, Mary Kom has ruled many stages she been to. She has an unique approach to her diet and nutrition. She understands the importance of fueling her body with the right kind of food to achieve optimal performance.

Let’s deeply understand the diet of Mary Kom

Breakfast: Mary starts her day with a glass of lukewarm water mixed with honey and lemon. For breakfast, she typically has a bowl of oatmeal or muesli with milk, fruits, and nuts. Sometimes, she also eats eggs, preferably boiled or scrambled, to get the necessary protein.

Mid-morning snack: To maintain her energy levels, Mary snacks on fruits such as apples, bananas, or papayas. She also includes almonds, walnuts, or peanuts in her mid-morning snack for an extra protein boost.

Lunch: Mary’s lunch consists of a balanced meal with brown rice, lentils or legumes, green vegetables, and fish or chicken. She avoids fried or oily food and tries to keep the meal as simple and nutritious as possible.

Evening snack: For her evening snack, Mary prefers a protein shake made with whey protein powder, milk, and fruits. She also includes some roasted peanuts or almonds for added nutrients.

Dinner: Mary’s dinner is similar to her lunch, consisting of brown rice, vegetables, and grilled or baked fish or chicken. She avoids high-fat foods and eats an early dinner to give her body enough time to digest the food before going to bed.

Hydration: Mary also emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated and drinks plenty of water throughout the day. She avoids sugary drinks and prefers coconut water or lemon water for an extra dose of nutrients.

Mary Kom’s diet is a well-balanced, high-protein, and low-fat diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. By following a disciplined approach to nutrition, Mary has not only maintained her fitness but also become an inspiration to millions of people around the world.

The three female boxers we have discussed have very different diets, but they all share a commitment to fueling their bodies in the best possible way to support their rigorous training regimes and fighting schedules. Whether it’s a traditional protein-rich diet or a plant-based, vegan one, the key is to find what works for your body and stick to it. By doing so, you too can achieve your full potential in the ring, or in any other sport you choose to pursue.

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