I must mention here that the past and highly prevalent practice in India of using cast iron utensils for cooking was a great boon. It ensured that there was adequate iron in our diet. Alas, in these times of non-stick cookware we have forgotten some of our traditional cooking utensils.

Another problem with most Indian diets has been that our salads are usually devoid of fat. The absence of fat in the salad prevents the absorption of many of the valuable nutrients present in the salad mix. It would be a good idea to add a hint of olive oil or peanut oil to salads in order to maximise the benefits.

Our consumption of fruits, veggies and legumes usually does not meet the recommended amounts, which is probably why many of us are sub clinically deficient in micronutrients such as zinc and selenium.(Concluded)

nsingh.rxpress@expressindia.com