Hyderabadi’s are any day luckier than those residing in Chennai or Mumbai as the weather is relatively cooler here. With summer in full blaze, city’s dietitians and nutritionists are recommending a good diet and maximum intake of fluids to keep yourself healthy and active.
Gulnaz Faheem, clinical nutritionist said, “It is important to hydrate one’s body through the course of the entire day. From the time you wake up till lunch ideally one should have 2.5 liters of water. Totally in an entire day it is good to take in 4.5 liters of water.”
Dr Shihab K, who specialises nutritional medicine said, “Most times we actually do not feel thirsty and so we do not drink water. But it is important to drink water at regular intervals.” He added, “Drink water at the room temperature, not cold water.”
For people who are not actually kicked up about drinking water, they can have fresh fruits and vegetable juices, as they not only have water content but are also packed with essential nutrients, said Gulnaz.
However, Dr Shihab recommended green tea along with fruit juices. He said, “People can have cucumber, watermelon, melon. They not only hydrate the body but also have a lot of vitamin C and B Complex, which are very good anti-oxidants. These also prevent cellular aging and protects the body issues and the organs.” Gulnza heavily prescribes bottle gourd especially in the morning as it is a total detox agent and helps in improving Immunity.
Doctors also advise four small meals in between the regular three meals. Gulnaz said, “You can snack on fruits, vegetable salads, nuts and butter milk in between.” Shihab stressed on the importance of a heavy breakfast. He said, “It is very important to start the day with a good breakfast, as it keeps you fueled through out the day.”
For lunch and dinner it is advisable to keep it light, no matter which ever cuisine it might be. Gulnaz said, “It is always better to add raw vegetables and butter milk to the meal.”
Dr Shihab offered a simple formula for a healthy life, “When ever you eat, divide your stomach into four portions, one for cooked food, second portion is for raw vegetables, third should be water and keep the fourth empty.” One last word, actually a reminder from them, “Don’t forget to drink water.”