What is your health resolution

A handful of almonds instead of a bag of chips whenever hungry -Almonds have a satiety value and hence a handful of these nuts, when hungry, leaves you feeling full and may dissuade you from reaching for unhealthy junk food. The abundance of antioxidant vitamin E,fibre, magnesium and other important nutrients, make almonds a storehouse of health and crunch. The majority of the fats in almonds are monounsaturated fats, which are thought to help protect the heart.Most importantly, they are delicious! They can make for a perfect habit to start this health year with.

A cup of green tea instead of sodas and other caffeine rich drinks– The WHO states that unhealthy diets high in sugar, salt and fat contribute to the global epidemic of obesity and place people at higher risk of diseases such as cardiovascular and some cancers. Hence, abandon the habit of sipping on sodas whenever thirsty and have a cup of green tea instead. Green tea is a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect cells in the body against oxidative damage. It is believed that green tea provides protection from various lifestyle diseases. Some people may not like the taste in the beginning but one slowly gets used to this healthy drink.

Baked, grilled or sautéed food instead of rich, oily and deep fried preparations –Even though watching your waistline has become a huge motivation for most for avoiding oily/deep fried food, it is equally important for the rest who are invariably at the risk of putting on extra kilos. Cooking oil, especially the types which are rich in ‘bad’ saturated fat, can make your heart really unwell. Hence baking, grilling orsautéing your food can be healthy alternatives to regular cooking methods as they limit the use of oil to the bare minimum.

Walk instead of taking a rickshaw–Do not make an excuse of time, ever. Leave for your destination well in time so that you have the liberty of walking instead of taking a rickshaw, wherever possible. Walking is a perfect cardio exercise that works practically all the muscles of our body, burns excess fat, improves blood flow and helps tone up. Embracing this habit will not only make you more punctual but also healthier.

A mix of honey or jaggerycoated nuts like almonds, instead of sweets –Avoid giving in to your sweet tooth as far as possible. It not only adds to your waistline but also to your blood sugar levels. Considering India is rapidly spearing towards becoming the Diabetes capital of the world, it is safe to say that you can never be too careful. Healthier replacements to satisfy your sweet tooth can be honey or jaggerycoated seeds like flaxseeds and nuts like almonds. Here’s a recipe by Chef Kunal Kapur, Masterchef India Judger, which includes some of the above mentioned healthy ingredients. A perfect way to kick-start your health year: