Shalini Passi Advocates for Health-Focused Diet: Fueling Body and Mind
New Delhi - Shalini Passi, renowned art patron and philanthropist, recently shared insights into her dietary philosophy, emphasizing health over taste, in an exclusive interview with India Today. Her unique approach to eating has sparked discussions on the implications of viewing food primarily as sustenance rather than a source of pleasure.
In her candid conversation, Passi reflected on a transformative period in 2018 when she felt the need to enhance her physical health to match her vigorous lifestyle, especially after establishing her foundation. "I was getting a lot of inspiration, but I needed strength... I didn't want to be a burden on anyone," she explained, detailing how she turned to manifestation, exercise, and a revised diet to maintain the vitality typical of someone much younger.
Passi's dietary changes included extending the consumption of raw foods and adopting meals at room temperature. "For me, food is for sustenance, not for taste," she stated, highlighting how traditional meal times can disrupt productivity.
This approach, while unique, is part of a growing trend where nutrition is prioritized strictly for health benefits. Kanikka Malhotra, a consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator, commented on the potential benefits of such a diet. "It promotes a balanced diet, aids in weight management, and reduces the risk of obesity-related diseases," she said. However, she also cautioned that overly restrictive diets could lead to nutrient deficiencies and a strained relationship with food.
Regarding the impact of meal temperature on digestion, Malhotra noted that room-temperature meals can aid digestion by not requiring additional energy for temperature adjustment, potentially offering a middle ground for efficient nutrient absorption.
For those looking to maintain youthful body composition, Malhotra recommends incorporating nutrients like protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants into a simple diet. Foods rich in these nutrients include legumes, lean meats, dairy, fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, and a variety of colorful vegetables and fruits.
Passi's dietary philosophy, while not for everyone, invites a broader discussion on how we can balance the nutritional needs of our bodies with the cultural and sensory pleasures of eating. Her approach underscores the importance of personal health goals in shaping one's dietary habits, challenging conventional views on food consumption.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from the public domain and expert insights. Always consult a health practitioner before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.