Bhavna Awasthi, a homemaker in Dubai, says she is lucky in that she has no cravings for sweets, ever.
Still, she is careful about what she eats as she fears the “Dubai pound” and the extra weight most everyone here carries with them around their waistline. She scorns fad diets and believes people instead should focus on leading an active lifestyle.
Your biggest health fear?
Obesity. It is one of the biggest problems and can lead to chronic and life-threatening diseases. Due to our sedentary lifestyle, one can turn obese before realising what has happened.
It’s so easy to gain weight! I have been very careful in my habits and make sure that my family is also healthy.
Does fruit play a role in your diet?
Fruits have become a very debatable food in our family diet over the past years. Some in my family are pro-fruit and some are against them. Fruits have a lot of nutrients, but they are also are a source of a lot of sugar. I try and eat berries on a regular basis and make sure my children eat all kinds of fruits. I like to have a juice blend of carrot, orange and beetroot in the morning.
Your best health practice?
Since I am a vegetarian, I make an extra effort to eat protein-rich foods like quinoa and lentils. I avoid heavy carbs and raw vegetables at night. As a family, we also eat dinner early.
How bad is your sweet tooth?
Thankfully, I am not very fond of sweets. Once in a while, if I do indulge, I do not see that as a reason to go on a guilt trip.
Your idea of exercise?
I try and go for a walk whenever I can - at least 3 to 4 times a week, and get into the pool with the kids.
Herbal tea, coffee or tea?
Green tea, all the way. I keep myself hydrated and have at least 3 to 4 cups of green tea a day.
Would you eat all you can if you could?
Probably not. I am happy with the way I choose my food and eat. I do not shy away from eating what I like. I just make sure that if I have overindulged at one meal, I balance it in the next meal, or the next day.
