Latest news with #LeemaMahajan
NDTV
16-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Is It Safe To Eat Cold Leftover Food Straight From The Fridge?
Most of us do it without thinking - pop leftovers into the fridge, assuming they will be good to eat the next day (or the day after). After all, the refrigerator is our ultimate food safety guard, right? But is storing your dal or leftover biryani at midnight and reheating it three days later really as safe as it feels? Can we keep storing food without checking how, when, or where it is kept? Turns out, not quite. Improper storage and reheating habits can do more harm than you think. So, if you are used to storing piles of food in the fridge, here is how to eat it safely and retain its nutrition. How To Store Leftovers In The Fridge Safely: Nutritionist Leema Mahajan shares quick safety tips to help make the most of refrigerated food. 1. Store Food Within 2 Hours Of Cooking Mahajan says home-cooked food should be refrigerated within two hours. Leaving it out for longer allows bacteria to multiply, which can spoil the food and make it unsafe to eat. 2. Do Not Refrigerate Hot Food Immediately Placing hot food straight into a cold fridge can backfire. Mahajan explains that the temperature difference may encourage spoilage. Instead, allow the food to cool slightly at room temperature before storing. 3. Use Airtight Food Containers Only Avoid open containers, as they may lead to cross-contamination. Mahajan recommends clean, airtight containers to prevent the food from drying out or going bad. 4. Stop Reheating The Same Food Repeatedly One of the biggest errors, according to Mahajan, is reheating food more than once. This not only reduces the nutritional content but also raises the risk of spoilage. 5. Label Leftovers Clearly With Dates We often forget when we put something in the fridge. Mahajan advises labelling leftovers with the date to avoid guesswork and ensure they are eaten before they go off. How Long Can You Keep Leftovers In The Fridge? This is where most people slip up. Even if food looks or smells fine, it may not be safe to eat beyond a point. Mahajan shares that most home-cooked leftovers should ideally be consumed within two to three days. Cooked rice, dals, vegetables, or meat should be eaten in that time frame to minimise bacterial growth. Milk- or cream-based dishes have an even shorter shelf life and should be finished within 24 to 48 hours. If in doubt, it is safer to discard than risk a stomach bug. Can You Eat Leftovers Cold From The Fridge? Technically, yes, but it depends on the food type. If the food was stored hygienically and has not been out of the fridge, certain items like salads or cold pasta can be eaten cold. However, Mahajan recommends reheating Indian-style dishes such as curries or rice before eating to kill any bacteria and make digestion easier. 'Cold food is harder on your gut, especially if it contains fat or starch,' she adds. 4 Foods You Should Not Store In The Fridge: While it might feel safer to refrigerate everything, Ayurvedic health coach Dimple Jangda says some common foods are better left out, as they can become harmful when stored in the fridge. 1. Garlic Garlic contains spores that may cause botulism if stored poorly. Jangda explains that when humidity crosses 60 per cent, common inside refrigerators, mould can grow. Refrigerated garlic may sprout and produce mycotoxins, which pose serious health risks. 2. Onion Onions are sensitive to cold and may develop mould in lower temperatures. Jangda notes that cut onions can also absorb bacteria from the fridge, making them unsafe. She advises using the full onion or discarding leftovers. 3. Ginger Like garlic, ginger is prone to mould in the fridge. According to Jangda, this green mould can produce ochratoxin A, a mycotoxin that may compromise immunity. 4. Rice Rice is one of the fastest foods to catch mould. Jangda warns that refrigerated rice may also lead to higher starch levels, affecting blood sugar and cholesterol. It should not be stored for more than 24 hours and must be reheated thoroughly before eating.
NDTV
12-06-2025
- Health
- NDTV
This Is What A Nutritionist Recommends If You Are Battling High Uric Acid
In a world where movement is optional and meals are often a side-thought between emails, it is no surprise our bodies are raising quiet red flags. Late dinners, too much screen time, endless snacking, and litres of fizzy drinks, we are unintentionally setting ourselves up for health hiccups. One of those is high uric acid. It is sneaky, it builds up slowly, and by the time you notice, the discomfort has moved in. The silver lining? Uric acid levels can be managed if you know what to eat and what to skip. Nutritionist Leema Mahajan weighs in. What Happens When Uric Acid Shoots Up? High uric acid levels are not just about random joint aches. Think kidney stones, sharp urate crystals in the joints, swelling, pain - you get the idea. It is not just uncomfortable; it is not reversible either. Which is why keeping uric acid in check is less of a lifestyle choice and more of a non-negotiable. What To Eat If You Have High Uric Acid According to nutritionist Leema Mahajan, your kitchen already has a few heroes that can help bring those uric acid levels down naturally. 1. Vitamin C-Rich Foods Vitamin C helps flush uric acid out of your system. Think oranges, amla, apples, lemons—anything that has that tangy punch. Amla juice in the morning or a citrusy fruit midday could genuinely make a difference. 2. Raw Papaya Slightly boiled raw papaya is not just easy to digest—it is packed with papain, an enzyme that fights inflammation. Mahajan suggests it is particularly good during flare-ups because it is gentle on the joints. 3. Cinnamon When uric acid rises, your metabolism takes a hit, too. A pinch of cinnamon in warm water or sprinkled over your oats can calm things down internally. It is a small addition with solid benefits. 4. Black Coffee And Green Tea These drinks come with antioxidants like chlorogenic acid and catechins, which could help control an enzyme linked to uric acid production. Just do not overdo it—one to two cups a day is enough, ideally mid-morning or post-lunch. What To Avoid If You Have High Uric Acid 1. Alcohol And Sugary Sodas Beer, whisky, sugary fizzy drinks, all packed with purines and sugar. Both are bad news for uric acid levels. Mahajan recommends switching to coconut water, herbal tea or fruit-infused water instead. Your kidneys will thank you. 2. Packaged Snacks Processed foods often sneak in high-fructose corn syrup, a sweetener known to spike uric acid. Chips, energy drinks, sugary cereals, even those so-called 'healthy' granola bars - worth a second look at the label. 3. Red Meats And Shellfish These are naturally high in purines. Eat them regularly, and your uric acid levels will follow suit. If you are looking for safer bets, opt for lean meats like chicken or plant-based proteins such as tofu or lentils. The One Mistake People Make With A Uric Acid Diet Cutting out all proteins. Mahajan is clear: protein is not the villain. Dal, peas, mushrooms - all fair but in moderation. They are not as purine-heavy as previously assumed and bring fibre, minerals, and plant protein to your plate. According to her, eating on time and making thoughtful swaps can help your body manage uric acid levels better, without drastic diet rules.
NDTV
09-06-2025
- Health
- NDTV
6 Classic Indian Breakfast Upgrades That Actually Burn Fat
Nutritionist Leema Mahajan suggests healthier versions of six popular Indian breakfasts to aid weight loss. Upgrades include adding protein, fibre, and probiotics for better energy, digestion, and fat loss without extreme dieting. Many of us begin our day with well-intentioned food choices-comforting, homemade Indian breakfasts that feel nourishing. But what if those familiar meals are not really supporting your weight loss journey? Nutritionist Leema Mahajan, in a recent Instagram post, shares how some beloved breakfast dishes can be reimagined for better energy, digestion, and fat loss. The goal? No crash diets, no extreme restrictions- just smart, satisfying upgrades that work with your lifestyle... and help you lose weight fast. Let's decode six common Indian breakfasts and how to give them a healthy makeover. Here Are 6 Popular Indian Breakfasts And Ways To Make Them Work For Weight Loss 1. Idli with Coconut Chutney: Upgrade: Idli with Vegetable Sambhar While idlis are low in calories, pairing them with only chutney may leave you hungry soon after. Enter sambhar - a protein-rich, fibre-packed lentil stew loaded with vegetables. It keeps you full longer, balances blood sugar, and curbs mid-morning cravings. 2. Overnight Oats with Fruits: Upgrade: Chia Seed Pudding with Seasonal Fruits Overnight oats often include added milk, sweeteners, or nut butters, which sneak in extra calories. Chia seeds, on the other hand, offer omega-3 fats, a lower glycaemic load, and promote better satiety. Paired with seasonal fruits, it's a refreshing, weight-friendly start. Here's a chia seed pudding recipe you can try. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leema Mahajan | Nutritionist & Weight loss specialist (@leemamahajan) 3. Aloo Masala Dosa: Upgrade: Moong Dal Dosa with Paneer Filling Aloo masala is heavy on starch and low on protein. Swap it for a dosa made from moong dal-light, protein-rich, and gut-friendly. Stuff it with paneer for added protein, which supports lean muscle growth and keeps you energised for hours. 4. Suji Upma: Upgrade: Millet Upma (Jowar or Bajra) Suji (semolina) is processed and can spike insulin levels. Millets, on the other hand, are gluten-free, rich in minerals, and offer complex carbs that digest slowly. The result? Longer-lasting fullness and improved metabolic health. Also Read: 5 Morning Rituals To Kick-Start Weight Loss Journey And Cut Belly Fat 5. Ragi or Oats Chilla: Upgrade: Besan + Moong Dal Chilla While ragi and oats are healthy, besan and moong dal bring in high-quality, bioavailable protein that's easy on the gut. These chillas stabilise blood sugar and offer sustained energy-great if you're balancing work and workouts. 6. Plain Paratha with Chai & Achar: Upgrade: Missi Roti with Curd Paratha with chai and pickle is delicious but low on protein and probiotics. Missi roti (a blend of besan and whole wheat) with curd delivers the perfect trio of complex carbs, good bacteria, and quality protein- ideal for digestion and hormone balance. Check out these tips to make perfect missi roti. These changes aren't about eating less, they're about eating smarter. By upgrading your breakfast thoughtfully, you support your body's natural fat-burning mechanisms, reduce bloating, and enjoy better energy throughout the day. No crash diets. No deprivation. Just better choices that feel and taste good.
NDTV
30-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Which Roti Is Best For You? Learn How To Tailor Grains To Your Health Needs
In an age of superfoods and supplements, many of us overlook the simplest dietary tweak: rotating our grains based on what our bodies truly need. Nutritionist Leema Mahajan recently shared a thoughtful post on Instagram that has inspired many to revisit their flour jar with new respect. Her message is clear - our ancestors had it right. Choosing the right grain can be a subtle but powerful act of self-care. Let's explore how different traditional Indian grains - long valued in Ayurveda - can support your health. How to choose flour for roti as per your health condition: Barley (Jau) Best for: Blood sugar management & heart health With its low glycaemic load and rich beta-glucan content, barley is excellent for stabilising blood sugar and lowering cholesterol. If you're diabetic or managing high cholesterol, a barley roti a few times a week can make a noticeable difference. Samak (Barnyard Millet) Best for: Summer detox & sensitive digestion Light, cooling, and easy to digest, samak is perfect for those muggy summer months when heavy grains feel overwhelming. If you experience bloating, nausea, or loss of appetite in the heat - or are dealing with low iron - samak is a gentle companion. Bajra (Pearl Millet) Best for: Winter warmth & iron deficiency Thick, earthy, and deeply satisfying, bajra roti is a winter staple in many Indian homes. Rich in iron and deeply warming, it's ideal for those with anaemia or a sluggish metabolism during colder months. here are some tips to make perfect bajra roti. Amaranth (Rajgira) Best for: Thyroid support & gluten sensitivity Naturally gluten-free and a powerhouse of selenium and protein, amaranth is ideal for those managing thyroid conditions or hormone imbalances. Its nutty flavour also adds variety to your roti routine. Ragi (Finger Millet) Ragi roti is a nutritious addition to your diet. Best for: Bone health & growing children Packed with natural calcium and vitamin D, ragi is a must for children, post-menopausal women, and older adults. A soft ragi roti with ghee and jaggery? Both delicious and functional. Jowar (Sorghum) Best for: Digestive issues & constipation Rich in insoluble fibre, jowar helps keep your digestive system running smoothly. If you often feel constipated or sluggish after meals, jowar rotis can bring welcome relief. Here's how to make soft jowar roti. Khapli (Emmer Wheat) Best for: Wheat sensitivity & gut health Khapli is an ancient, low-gluten wheat variety that's far gentler than modern wheat. If regular atta leaves you bloated or heavy, switch to khapli - it could transform your relationship with rotis. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leema Mahajan | Nutritionist & Weight loss specialist (@leemamahajan) Swapping your roti grain isn't a diet trend, it's a return to eating with intention. Listen to your body, observe the seasons, and trust that your kitchen can be your pharmacy. Sometimes, the simplest meals are the most healing.
NDTV
23-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
5 Of The Best Foods To Naturally Reduce Chronic Inflammation
Have you ever woken up feeling bloated, sluggish, or just off? This could be your body's way of signalling inflammation. For those unfamiliar, inflammation is your body's natural defence mechanism, but when it shifts to chronic inflammation, problems start to arise. It quietly builds up in your body and can lead to several serious health issues. In today's world, modern lifestyle factors play a major role in increasing inflammation, and no quick home remedy seems to work. The good news is that your kitchen might hold the key to managing this condition naturally. If you struggle with chronic inflammation, this article is for you. Let us hear from experts about how a few simple ingredients can help you control this problem naturally. Here Are 7 Symptoms Of Chronic Inflammation Inflammation can occur in the body at any time. According to nutritionist Leema Mahajan, these are some symptoms of chronic inflammation that indicate your body may be asking for help: 1. Brain Fog: If you find yourself forgetful, confused, or unable to focus, this could be a sign of chronic inflammation as it disrupts communication between your brain and body. 2. Skin Issues: Daily acne, eczema, or psoriasis can point to chronic inflammation. These skin problems are often triggered by poor gut health or an inflammatory diet. 3. Swelling Or Puffiness: Unexplained swelling or puffiness around your hands, face, or feet could be a major sign of inflammation caused by water retention. 4. Constant Fatigue: Chronic inflammation can interfere with your energy levels by affecting your body's ability to rest and recover, leading to ongoing exhaustion. 5. Weight Fluctuations: Sudden weight gain or loss may be linked to inflammation disrupting your metabolism, causing body weight to fluctuate. 6. Gut Problems: Persistent bloating, gas, constipation, or irregular bowel movements may be caused by inflammation in the digestive tract. 7. Joint Pain: Chronic joint pain and stiffness, especially in the knees, elbows, or other joints, is another common symptom of inflammation. Here Are 5 Superfoods To Help Manage Inflammation Nutritionist Anusha Rodrigues highlights several kitchen staples that can help reduce chronic inflammation. These five superfoods, easily found in your pantry, could be your best allies against inflammation: 1. Aloe Vera Extract: Known for reducing inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes, aloe vera extract can be consumed by mixing 30ml in water before lunch or dinner to manage inflammation effectively. 2. Peppermint Tea: Peppermint contains menthol, which helps reduce inflammation and soothes the gut lining. Drinking two cups of peppermint tea daily can significantly lower inflammation. 3. Soaked Black Raisins: This centuries-old remedy works due to antioxidants and polyphenols in black raisins that reduce inflammation. Make sure to consume both the soaked raisins and the water. 4. Ginger: A powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient, ginger contains gingerol, which reduces inflammation by calming pro-inflammatory enzymes. It is best consumed in the morning on an empty stomach. 5. Probiotics: Probiotics, the good bacteria, reduce inflammation by regulating the immune system. Including probiotic capsules or probiotic-rich foods like curd, kefir, or kimchi can support gut health and inflammation control. Diet Tips To Reduce Inflammation While adding anti-inflammatory foods is important, making dietary changes is crucial to eliminating inflammation completely. Celebrity nutritionist Rashi Chowdhary recommends these changes for better health: 1. Avoid Refined Oils: Vegetable refined oils oxidise easily, damaging your body's cells and DNA, increasing inflammation, and raising the risk of heart disease. 2. Go Gluten-Free: Removing gluten helps the gut heal and improves nutrient absorption. 3. Choose Dairy-Free Drinks: Dairy can increase blood sugar and insulin levels, leading to weight gain and health problems such as acne, PCOS, and obesity. 4. Cut Out Refined Sugar: Added sugars contribute to inflammation, obesity, and high blood pressure. Refined sugar lacks nutrients and can cause insulin resistance, cravings, and poor gut bacteria balance.
