Ever wondered what doctors like to carry in their lunch boxes? “Must be something healthy!” is the first thought that comes to most of our minds, and we aren’t too wrong. General Physician Dr Amit Lala Khomane took to Instagram to ask dermatologist Dr Supriya Deshmukh what she carries in her tiffin to maintain skin health, and here’s what he found.
Dr Deshmukh revealed that she loves baked fish, salads loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, blueberries and yoghurt along with flaxseeds. Dr Khomane too shared what’s in his dabba, revealing that he likes to have “mutigrain roti, a cocktail of dry fruits and nuts, a salad with broccoli, carrots and cucumber, and gavar ki sabzi”.
Decoding their health benefits
Dr Anshu Chaturvedi, Head, Department of Dietetics – CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, told indianexpress.com that foods like fish, salads with cucumber, carrot and tomato, flaxseed, yoghurt, blueberries, millets, soybean, nuts, omega-3–rich sources, and broccoli play a crucial role in building long-term health. Their value lies not only in their nutritional density but also in how they support various body systems.
Dr Chaturvedi decoded the health benefits of all the ingredients mentioned, elaborating on their impact on health:
- Fish and other omega-3–rich foods help reduce inflammation and support heart and brain health, making them important for people with lifestyle-related risks.
- Salads containing cucumber, carrot, and tomato add hydration, fibre and antioxidants that aid digestion and help the body combat oxidative stress.
- Flaxseed, nuts and soybeans are excellent plant-based sources of protein and healthy fats, helping maintain hormonal balance, muscle repair and metabolic stability.
- Blueberries and broccoli provide concentrated antioxidants and micronutrients that strengthen immunity and reduce the impact of chronic diseases.
- Yogurt supports gut health, an increasingly recognised pillar of immunity, nutrient absorption and mental well-being.
- Millets, being high in fibre and low in glycaemic index, help maintain steady blood sugar levels and support weight management.
A diet that includes these foods in moderation can not only enhance energy levels but also improve immunity (Source: Freepik)
“Gavar phali or cluster beans are rich in folate and Vitamin B, which support brain function. They also have antioxidant properties that help maintain youthful, healthy-looking skin. They are high in fibre, which aids digestion, prevents constipation, and normalises blood sugar levels, making them ideal for gut health,” said Veena V, Chief Clinical Dietitian, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru.
In fact, its potassium content helps control blood pressure, reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), reduce heart disease risk, and enhance blood circulation, she added.
“A diet that includes these foods in moderation can not only enhance energy levels, but also improve immunity, and reduce the risk of many non-communicable diseases,” said Veena. While no single food item can be a magic solution, their collective nutritional power can make a significant difference when combined with an active lifestyle and mindful eating patterns.
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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.