There’s a whole lot of food available in the market, in stores, in your kitchen and on your table. But the everyday diet plan dished out to you for optimum health by experts is full of dos and don’ts. What food to eat, what to avoid. What to drink, what to avoid. So where does that leave you with? What food should you eat for optimum health?

Well, no matter how healthy or unhealthy you are, life is short. Why deprive yourself from the platter of delight. Do what you can do. eat and drink what you like, but… There’s always a big ‘but’. Well, you can chop the ‘but’ off. Yes, just chop it off!

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All you need is ‘moderation’ and the ‘balancing act’. A well-balanced diet and food in moderation is what you need. Nothing more. Nothing less. Just make sure your diet is rich in fibre, protein and healthy cholesterol.

Going by wellness expert Dolly Kumar, for optimum health:-

Platter of protein

Indulge in a platter of protein from lean meat or vegetable protein from various seasonal vegetables like spinach, broccoli, peas, etc. and beans, whole grains, nuts etc. for fibre.

Bowl of muesli

A bowl of muesli every day can change the game for you. Muesli is made with a healthy combination of wheat flakes, corn flakes, rolled oats, etc. It is high in fibre and protein and also rich in antioxidants. It aids in weight management and also keeps you fuller for longer.

Bowl of oatmeal

Oats  are rich in dietary fibre and protein. It is also proven to manage cholesterol levels, maintain healthy body weight and reduce risk of blood sugar and diabetes.

Dash of stevia

Replace your high calorie sugar with natural zero-calorie stevia. Stevia is obtained from natural herbs and does not contain artificial sweeteners. Stevia is also fat free, making it beneficial for diabetics and the weight conscious. Add Stevia to your daily cup of tea, coffee or any drink or dessert and enjoy sweetness without having to worry about those extra calories!

Drop of healthy cholesterol

Healthy cholesterol is an essence of a healthy heart. So instead of your regular cooking oil, opt for extra light olive oil which is ideal for cooking all kinds of cuisines. Olive oil is known to be rich in monosaturated fats that help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL) that protects your heart.  It also contains antioxidants that provide anti-aging benefits and help keep your skin and hair healthy.