New Delhi, May 10 (IANS). A woman’s eating habits during pregnancy are very important not only for her own health but also for the health and development of the baby in the womb. In such a situation, health experts advise the common people as well as pregnant women to include all the colors i.e. nutrients in their food plate, which is also commonly called ‘colorful plate’.
National Health Mission (NHM) while explaining the importance of colorful thali asks the question whether your thali includes all the colors? If not, it may be a matter of concern. A colorful thali i.e. including fruits, vegetables, grains and other food items of different colors in the plate is the easiest and most effective way of balanced nutrition. Food of one color provides one type of nutrients to the body, whereas a plate with seven colors fulfills every need of the body. It is not only attractive in appearance, but is also very beneficial for health.
A colorful thali is considered especially important for pregnant women. During this time, a woman’s body needs extra nutrition because a new and special time is going on. In such a situation, a balanced and colorful plate provides essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and protein to both mother and child. Due to this, the baby develops properly in the womb, the mother’s immunity remains strong and recovery after delivery also becomes faster.
Every color has its own importance like green color i.e. spinach, broccoli or other vegetables, which is rich in iron and folic acid. Red color i.e. tomato, carrot etc. which are rich in Vitamin A and antioxidants. Yellow-orange color i.e. banana is orange, which is rich in vitamin C and potassium. At the same time, purple colors like berries, brinjal contain antioxidants which reduce inflammation.
NHM says that a healthy future starts with right nutrition. Colorful thali is not a fashion, but an important step towards a healthy life. If pregnant women include seasonal fruits and vegetables of different colors in their plate every day, there will be no shortage of nutrition. Dieticians also advise not to eat the same type of food during pregnancy. Variety of colors not only increases nutrition but also improves appetite and increases the enjoyment of eating.
–IANS
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