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Healthy Food

Immunity-Boosting Ginger (Adrak) Barfi May Do Wonders For Cough And Cold Highlights

Ginger is known for its high immunity-boosting properties.
Make ginger barfi this festive season for both taste and health.
Here s an easy recipe to make it at home.

There s a reason why all of a sudden everyone starts adding lots of ginger to their tea and meals as soon as the winter arrives. Other that helping us keep warm, ginger is one of the best foods to boost immunity and fight that pestering cold and cough. Now, that the festive season is upon us, there s no better time to make a festive sweet that actually offers a two-pronged solution - satiate the craving of your family and protect them against seasonal illnesses.

Healing Foods by DK Publishing explains, Ginger has a very important compound called gingerol that offers its antibacterial and inflammatory properties. Ginger is rich in another compound called zingerone , which is a powerful antioxidant.

Are you worried for your family s health right now? You must try this delicious and health-giving ginger or adrak ki barfi.

(Also Read:Onion Tea For Immunity: An Effective Home Remedy For Cough And Cold)

Ginger is a great immunity-boosting food.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });Adrak Barfi Recipe:

Ingredients:
1 cup ginger
1 tsp ghee (clarified butter)
4-6 cardamoms
Half cup milk
1 cup sugar
Dry fruits of your choice (optional)

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Method:
Step 1 - Peel the ginger and chop it into small pieces.
Step 2 - Grind the ginger along with cardamom and milk to make paste.
Step 3 - Heat ghee in a pan. Add the ginger paste and roast well till it changes colour and ghee seperates.
Step 4 - Add sugar and mix well. You can add dry fruits in this step. Add some more milk if the mixture is too dense. When the sugar is fully dissolved, turn off the gas.
Step 5 - Grease a large plate with some ghee and pour the mixture on it. With hands or with the back of a ladle, spread the mixture evenly and flatten the top.
Step 6 - Let it come down to room temperature or refrigerate for it to thicken and set. Cut into barfi-like shapes.

Believe us, you are going to love this barfi as much as you love other traditional festive sweets. Do try this recipe and enjoy all the ongoing and upcoming festivals in good health.

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Indian-Cooking-Tips:-How-To-Make-Halwai-Style-Besan-ki-Barfi-In-Under-10-Minutes Indian Cooking Tips: How To Make Halwai-Style Besan ki Barfi In Under 10 Minutes Highlights

Barfi is a quintessential Indian festive sweet
Barfi can be of many kinds
Barfi is incredibly easy to make at home

It is hard to find a person in India who is not a barfi fan. We say so rather confidently because there are so many kinds of barfis in this country that you are bound to have. Moong dal to chocolate, kaju to coconut barfi, the variety is endless and we are not complaining. Each time we visit a Halwai shop, the most difficult decision for us is to choose the right barfi. This season, save yourself that stress by making delicious besan barfi at home! There are many reports of adulteration in sweets around the festive time; therefore, to be completely sure of the ingredients in your barfi - it is always a good idea to make it yourself at home. And guess what, it is not as cumbersome as you think.

(Also Read:Bored With Plain Chilla? Try This Besan Egg Chilla And Add Variety To Your Morning Meal)

This besan ki barfi recipe by YouTuber Parul is an ideal example of how you can use common kitchen ingredients to make Halwai-style sweets at home. The prime ingredients of this barfi are besan or gram flour, ghee and sugar. This barfi does not use khoya or mawa or any artificial colour or sweetener. All you need to do is fry the besan with ghee until it starts to look slightly fudgy. You would have to do most of the frying on low to medium flame to prevent risk of burning. Set it in a tin or vessel, let it freeze, and you are done.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

Sounds like a cakewalk? Watch the recipe video of Halwai-Style Besan ki Barfi at home:

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(Also Read:How Does Besan Ka Sheera Help In Curing Cold And Cough Effectively)

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High-Protein-Diet:-Prepare-This-Delicious-Mushroom-Toast-For-A-Quick-And-Exotic-Meal High-Protein Diet: Prepare This Delicious Mushroom Toast For A Quick And Exotic Meal Highlights

Mushroom is low in calorie and high in protein
This mushroom toast can be made in less than 30 minutes
This dish makes for an ideal breakfast or brunch menu

Let s admit it - mushroom is one of the most versatile ingredients in a kitchen pantry. It is easily available year-round and can help you prepare a plethora of dishes any time of the day. From a simple matar mushroom to the most exotic mushroom risotto - this food ingredient has a long list of recipes to its credit. And the best part is, most of them can be prepared at home, without much struggle. Alongside its versatility and soft, chewy meat-like texture, what adds on to its popularity is its high nutrient content.

Health Benefits Of Mushroom:

Mushroom is low in calorie and high in protein, and makes for a great inclusion in your weight loss diet. It is also enriched with healthy carbohydrates, iron, vitamin C, D, and B-6 and more. Moreover, the high potassium and low sodium-content of mushroom may help manage diabetes and keep blood pressure level under control. Mushroom is also known to have a good amount of water content.

Here we bring you a simple mushroom-based recipe that will help you put together an exotic, restaurant-style dish at home; that too in less than 30 minutes. It is called mushroom toast. All you need to do is saute the mushroom with some butter, garlic and seasonings and serve on a bread slice with a poached egg.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

This mushroom toast makes for an ideal dish during breakfast or for brunch. You must give this recipe a try!

Here s The Step-By-Step Recipe For Mushroom Toast:Ingredients:

2 cups mushroom, chopped

10-12 garlic, chopped

1 egg

Black pepper, as per taste

Salt, as per taste

Chilli flakes, as per taste

1-2 teaspoon fresh parsley or dried herbs of your choice

1-2 teaspoon butter

1 slice of multi-grain bread

Some grated cheese (optional)

Method:

Step 1. Heat a pan and add butter to it.

Step 2. Add garlic and chilli flakes and saute for some time. Don t burn the garlic.

Step 3. Add mushroom to it and cook till they turn soft and light golden in colour.

Step 4. Add salt, black pepper, dried herbs or chopped fresh parsley and mix.

Step 5. Take another pan and prepare a sunny-side-up poached egg.

Step 6. All you need to do is assemble the meal. Take a slice of bread, add the sauteed mushroom and grated cheese on it. Top it with a poached egg and serve.

Enjoy your meal!

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This-Moong-Dal-Sprouts-Poha-Recipe-Is-Quick,-Wholesome-And-Very-Easy This Moong Dal Sprouts Poha Recipe Is Quick, Wholesome And Very Easy Highlights

Protein helps keep you satiated
Protein is also called the building block of life
Protein helps build muscles

Think breakfast and breakfast staples like omelette, cereals, cheela, butter toast begin to crowd the mind. Another breakfast treat that we cannot ever get enough of is poha. Poha is a dish made with flattened rice flakes. The dish is so popular that in some states rice flakes are called poha. Poha can be prepared in a gamut of ways; you must have heard of Indori poha and Maharashtra s Kanda poha. Just a few permutation and combinations can give you a whole new dish every time. You can also make your poha as healthy as you want. So one of these days when we tried upping the protein content of our daily poha by mixing in a few moong dal sprouts, the results were more than amazing!
Moong dal sprouts are replete with protein, antioxidants, fibre and vitamin A, B, C and E. You can sprout the moong beans a day in advance and use them in a bunch of your recipes to add some flavour to your plain ol dishes.

(Also Read:Poha Health Benefits: 6 Reasons This Popular Indian Breakfast Food Is Great For You!)

Poha is another quick and healthy breakfast option made with flattened rice
Photo Credit: iStockgoogletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

How To Make Sprouts Poha | Easy Sprouts Recipe:

Ingredients:

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1 1/2 cup of boiled moong dal sprouts
2 cup of poha or chiwda or flattened rice
1 tsp oil
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
½ cup chopped onions
½ cup of finely chopped tomatoes
Salt for taste
1 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp turmeric powder

Method:
1. Wash and strain the chiwda. Leave it aside for 10 minutes.
2. Take a pan and heat the oil and add mustard seeds.
3. Once the seeds begin to crackle, add onions. Sautee a bit till onions turn slightly brown.
4. Add tomatoes and sprouts and sautee again on medium flame for one to two minutes.
5. Add turmeric powder and salt and mix again,
6. After about a minute add half a cup of water and let it cook for two minutes.
7. Now, add the poha and lemon juice. Stir continuously for 2 minutes until everything is nicely mixed.
8. Serve hot with a garnish of coriander leaves and a pinch of chaat masala if you like.

Try this recipe and let us know how you liked it.

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(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)

Pic-Of--Antivirus-Tiffin-Center--In-Odisha-Goes-Viral.-Or-Should-We-Say-Antiviral? Pic Of Antivirus Tiffin Center In Odisha Goes Viral. Or Should We Say Antiviral? Highlights

A picture of antivirus tiffin center has taken internet by storm
The food stall is located in Berhampur, Odisha
Here s what netizens said about the eatery

There s no denying that Coronavirus has impacted businesses and livelihoods all over the world. Restaurants and menus have also adapted to these uncertain times in their own way. While a vaccine against the pandemic is eagerly awaited, immunity-building is currently one of the primary concerns of individuals. Products and home remedies which claim to boost immune health are selling like hot cakes. This was the impetus for a food stall owner in Berhampur, Odisha, who took the pandemic in his stride to market his business.

The owner decided to name his food stall, Antivirus Tiffin Center in keeping with the sentiment of the times. The intriguing board of the stall was captured by a visitor, who soon shared it on Reddit. Take a look at the post:

Antivirus Tiffin Center ! from r/india

The picture was shared by u/element_guy on the subreddit r/india, which is the official subreddit for India with over 421k members. Since the time it was shared, it received 3k upvotes and counting, and 99% users upvoted the post. Live up to the trend, was the caption written with the picture.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

(Also Read:Reddit Thread Reveals Easy Hack To Use And Store Batter - In Ketchup Bottle!)

We could see a number of people standing at the Odisha eatery, which had a variety of items on sale. Antivirus Tiffin Center had dishes like Idli, Dosa, Upma, Puri,Samosa and Vada in its menu. Netizens couldn t help but react at the clever name which was in keeping with the ongoing health situation. Hope he is not adding sanitizer to the meals, commented oneReddit user while another wrote, Modern problems require modern solutions.

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(Also Read:American Chef Impresses Reddit With Delicious IndianThaliCooked From Scratch)

What did you think of the interesting food stall? Have you seen such a creative eatery in your neighbourhood too? Tell us in the comments below!

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Vitamin-E,-Extracted-From-Palm-Oil,-May-Help-Boost-Immunity---How-You-Can-Add-It-To-Your-Diet Vitamin E, Extracted From Palm Oil, May Help Boost Immunity - How You Can Add It To Your Diet

Palm oil is one edible oil that is known for its versatile usages. Extracted from the fruits of oil palm tree, it is loaded with several nutrients that may help prevent vitamin A deficiency, ageing, and manage cholesterol and blood pressure. It is a storehouse of vitamin E and is known to promote skin health, hair health and more. In fact, palm oil is one of the most economical sources of vitamin E. Adding to its benefits; a recent study has found that the vitamin E, extracted from palm oil, may help boost immune response in the body. The research, conducted on mice liver cells, was published in the journal Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology .

For the uninitiated, palm oil is enriched with vitamin E compounds like tocopherols and tocotrienols, which help protect the cells from toxic chemical damages. As per a report in ANI, while tocopherol is a widely known and researched compound, there remains much to learn about tocotrienols.

The study was conducted by a team of researchers from Malaysia and Libya, who investigated the effects of tocotrienols (extracted from palm oil) on mice liver cells.

Our study is the first in vivo study on the effect of tocotrienols on Nrf2 on genetic material in the nucleus, said Azman Abdullah (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia), corresponding author of the study. On a related note, Nrf2 is a type of protein that helps regulate antioxidant proteins to prevent oxidative damages in a body.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

He added, We observed that the maximum effect of Nrf2 translocation into the liver cell nucleus after administration of the palm oil extract occurred in 60 minutes of administration.

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The researchers further hope that these findings will help people find easy and economical remedies for various diseases.

Here re 4 Ways To Include Palm Oil To Your Diet:

Substitute your regular oil with palm oil for everyday cooking.
You may add palm oil to your food as a replacement for butter.
Add it to your dip and sauce recipes.
You may pour some palm oil while kneading dough for your baked goods.

Enjoy good health with the help of palm oil.

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Indian-Cooking-Tips:-How-To-Make-Aloo-Methi-In-30-Minutes Indian Cooking Tips: How To Make Aloo Methi In 30 Minutes Highlights

Methi or fenugreek is a versatile winter veggie
Aloo methi is one of the most popular delicacies made with fenugreek
Here s how you can make aloo methi quickly and easily

Winters are just around the corner and so is the season to indulge in fresh green veggies! From spinach to carrots and to methi (fenugreek), winter is the season to make the most of such nutritious and versatile vegetables. Methi is definitely one of the most common vegetables found in winter season in most Indian households. Be it in the form of fresh leaves or the fenugreek powder used across Indian curries, methi is quite omnipresent in the Indian kitchen. Thanks to its distinct aroma, flavour and a host of health benefits, we have embraced methi in all its forms.

Besides being a truly versatile ingredient, methi is a storehouse of benefits that include combating the risk of heart disease as well as diabetes. Rich with amino acids, methi helps in the production of insulin. There are many ways of cooking methi at home yet one of the most popular and loved dish has to be aloo methi! The quick, easy and mouth-watering dish of aloo methi is extremely popular lunchtime meal across age groups during the winter season. The dried methi leaves lends an earthy and rustic flavour to the dish while potatoes help overcome the pungent flavour.

(Also Read:9 Ways to Include More Methi in Your Diet)googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });The quick, easy and mouth-watering dish of aloo methi is extremely popular lunchtime meal.

And if you are amateur who is learning to get the basic of cooking right, aloo methi might be the perfect dish for you to start with! Wholesome, delicious and effortlessly easy, one can prepare it during the lazy afternoons or even as a perfect side dish for a dinner party at home.

The recipe of aloo methi is as simple as anything could be! All you need to do is saute washed potatoes until they are half-cooked. Then saute dry fenugreek leaves with potatoes and spices such as fenugreek seeds, coriander powder and red chilli. That s it!

Find the full recipe of aloo methi here.

Pair this yummy aloo methi sabzi with chapatti or parathas topped with butter for a wholesome meal.

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Try this sabzi at home and share your experience with us in the comments section below.

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Vitamin-B12-Rich-Diet-May-Help-During-Coronavirus-Pandemic-(Study);-Foods-You-Can-Eat Vitamin B12-Rich Diet May Help During Coronavirus Pandemic (Study); Foods You Can Eat Highlights

Studies suggest Vitamin B12 deficiency may worsen COVID-19 treatment.
Vitamin B12 plays a significant role in red blood cells production.
Here are some foods that are a good source of vitamin B12.

Vitamin B12 is one of the many B vitamins that are crucial for bodily health. The most profound benefit of B12 is its ability to regulate cell metabolism and boost red blood cells production. In today s times, high importance has been attributed to this nutrient as many studies have linked vitamin B12 deficiency to severe COVID-19 cases and difficulty in their treatment. In yet another startling revelation, researchers from Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) in Russia, along with their Japanese colleagues, suggested that COVID-19 can stop RBC formation in the body, and lack of vitamin B12 could make it worse.

The study, published in the journal Archiv EuroMedica, claimed that severe COVID-19 infection may not only damage key red blood cells called erythrocytes but may also prevent formation of new ones.

Erythrocytes red blood cells help oxygen travel in the body through hemoglobin. Researchers found that loss of erythrocytes in Coronavirus patients could damage brain neurons, blood vessels, and lead to multiple organ failure in worse cases. Artificial ventilation does not help and only administration of erythrocyte mass and vitamin B12 could be effective. The study found that the characteristic location of hemoglobin in RBCs of COVID-19 patients indicated iron deficiency and B12 anaemia.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

Another study published by The National Center for Biotechnology Information, under The United States National Library of Medicine, reported that symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency are close to COVID-19 infection such as elevated oxidative stress, respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders, and also central nervous systems impairment.

(Also Read:Here s How You Can Add These Vitamin B12 Foods To Your Diet This Winter)

Vitamin B12-rich foods benefit our health in many ways. Image Credit: iStock

How You Can Add Vitamin B12 To Your Diet? 5 Vitamin B12-Rich Foods:1. Chicken

Besides being a valuable source of animal-based proteins, chicken also offers a good amount of vitamin B12. Click here to try some chicken recipes.

2. Eggs

Another food packed with proteins and vitamin B12, eggs are a breakfast staple. Click here to try these egg recipes for morning meals.

3. Cereals

Also add cereals to your breakfast menu for a load of vitamin B12. Cereals like bran and whole wheat oat cereals are excellent options to make a healthy breakfast bowl.

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Milk and all milk products are considered a great source of vitamin B12. And there are so many ways you can add them to your daily diet.

5. Salmon

Not just for Omega 3 fatty acids, eat salmon fish for vitamin B12 too. Here are some easy salmon recipes for you.

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(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)

What-To-Eat-After-Your-Karwa-Chauth-Fast?-7-Expert-Recommended-Tips What To Eat After Your Karwa Chauth Fast? 7 Expert-Recommended Tips Highlights

Karwa Chauth is a popular festival among many Hindu women
Karwa Chauth is also known as Karak Chaturti
Karwa Chauth falls on 4th November this year

Many Hindu women around India are observing their Karwa Chauth fast today. Also known as Karak Chaturthi, Karwa Chauth is the fourth day of moon s waning phase in the month of Kartik. The ancient Hindu festival is also seen as a bonding time among women, who on this special day get along, dress up, apply henna on their hands, perform pujas and ultimately break their fast upon seeing the moon. The fast is observed for the long lives and health of their spouses. The day-long fast is quite strenuous for some, which is why pregnant women, sick and elderly women are advised not to observe the fast.

After the day long fast, you may feel like having anything and everything that comes your way- but that may not be the best strategy according to some experts. Your body may not react very well with the abrupt change. We spoke to Ms. Jyoti (Senior Dietician at the Jaslok Hospital), who told us certain healthy ways in which you can break your fast, and foods that you should have post the vrat.

Here s What To Eat Post Karwa Chauth Vrat:

1. Drink Water
It cannot be emphasised enough, how much your body need water, especially at this point of time to avoid dehydration. So, keep a bottle ready, if plain taste of water bores you, you can try detox water, juices et al.

2. Dry Fruits And Nuts
Nuts and dry fruits are excellent sources of energy. They are also very satiating and fill you up with a range of minerals and antioxidants. Think: almonds, walnuts, cashews, prunes, raisins.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

(Also Read:Karwa Chauth 2020: A Fully Planned Karwa Chauth Dinner Menu With Recipes)

Photo Credit: iStock

3. Have A Balanced Meal
This is not the time rule out essential micro and micro nutrients. Make sure your meal post the vrat is balanced in terms of carbohydrates, proteins, for energy restoration.

4. Avoid Fried Foods
Try to cut back on deep fried foods, they can be difficult to digest and acidic.

(Also Read:When Is Karwa Chauth 2020? Significance Of Vrat And City-Wise Moonrise Time Across India)

Karwa Chauth 2020: Fried foods could be hard to digest

5. Load Up On Proteins
It is recommended you have considerable amount of protein post fasting instead of having foods comprising simple carbs or sugar. Proteins can help you sustain energy levels as they do not get metabolised too soon like simple carbohydrates.

6. Lime Juice Or Coconut Water
Having a glass of lime juice or coconut post fasting helps replenishing electrolytes in your body. It is excellent for immunity too.

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Coconut water makes for an effective rehydration solution
Photo Credit: iStock

7. Fruits
Breaking your fast by eating fruits helps restore energy levels in a jiffy. They are replete with natural sugars; hence, no one is complaining. Moreover, they are also high in vitamins and fibre that provides satiety. Some seasonal fruits we are in awe of are water chestnut, guava, apples and strawberries.

CommentsHappy Karwa Chauth 2020, Everybody!

Eat-Walnut-To-Prevent-Inflammation:-5-Delicious-Recipes-To-Add-More-Walnuts-To-Your-Diet Eat Walnut To Prevent Inflammation: 5 Delicious Recipes To Add More Walnuts To Your Diet Highlights

Walnut is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants etc
Adding walnut to our usual diet may help prevent inflammation
We bring some delicious walnut-based recipes for you

We all love adding a handful of nuts to our smoothies, salads or a bowl of kheer. These nuts not only add crunch and texture to a dish, but also elevate the overall taste of the food. In fact, you can add any nut to almost every recipe for that extra zing. One such extensively used nut is walnut. Alongside its culinary usage, what adds on to walnut s popularity is its rich nutrient-profile. Walnut is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids etc. and has countless number of health benefits. As per the USDA Nutrition data, a cup of walnut is packed with 5 grams of protein, 2 grams of fibre and 200 calories of energy. Deemed to be a super food, this brain-shaped crunchy nut promotes weight loss, prevents ageing, and manages diabetes and more.

A recent study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), has further found that inclusion of walnut in our usual diet may help reduce inflammation in human body. Rich in anti-inflammatory properties and omega-3 fatty acid, it further reduces the risk of heart-related diseases.

The anti-inflammatory effect of long-term consumption of walnuts demonstrated in this study provides novel mechanistic insight for the benefit of walnut consumption on cardiovascular disease risk beyond that of lipid lowering, said Montserrat Cofan, PhD, lead author of the study.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

Hence, health experts around the globe often recommend walnut as a part of our daily diet for overall nourishment. Keeping this in mind, we handpicked some recipes that will help you add walnut to your diet, without much hassle.

Here re 5 Walnut-Based Recipes For You:Banana Walnut Lassi

It won t be an exaggeration to say that lassi strikes the perfect balance between health and taste. Made with creamy yogurt, it is good for gut, keeps you hydrated and improves metabolism for overall health. Adding some walnuts and banana to it is the easiest way to take its benefits a step forward. Click here for recipe.

Walnut, Berry And Beetroot Smoothie Bowl

Looking for a wholesome meal to give a healthy start to your day? This amazing smoothie bowl is just the dish for you. Alongside the goodness of walnuts, the recipe includes nutrient-packed berries, beetroot, oats, milk and more in it. Click here for recipe.

Leafy Salad With Walnuts

Adding nuts to a salad bowl is a popular tradition among salad-eaters. A handful of nuts add health and taste to our meal. We bring to you one such salad that includes green leafy vegetables and walnuts in its recipe, making it a wholesome bowl for you. Click here to know more.

Walnut Kebab Recipe

If you are anything like us, then the very thought of kebab is enough to make you slurp. Made with walnut, potato, carrot, paneer and a pool of spices, this dish is just ideal for satiating evening cravings. You can also serve it as a starter at any house party or feast. Click here for recipe.

Walnut Halwa Recipe

We also found a walnut-based halwa recipe for you! It includes ground walnut, cucumber seeds, saffron etc., making this dish all about indulgence. You can replace the sugar in this recipe with some healthier alternatives to make it guilt-free for the dieters. Click here for recipe.

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Try these recipes at home and give yourself a treat of nutrition and taste for a well-balanced lifestyle.

Eat healthy. stay fit!

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Bhumi-Pednekar-Adds-A-Special-Ingredient-To-Her-Coffee.-Can-You-Guess-What-It-Is? Bhumi Pednekar Adds A Special Ingredient To Her Coffee. Can You Guess What It Is? Highlights

Bhumi Pednekar is one of the fittest actors in the industry
She regularly shares videos and tips from her workout sessions
Take a look at what she adds into her coffee

Bhumi Pednekar s journey in Bollywood has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. The actor gained a tremendous amount of weight for her very first film, Dum Laga Ke Haisha only to shed it soon after for films such as Shubh Mangal Saavdhan . She has maintained a steady fitness regime even in the lockdown period, as we saw from her numerous Instagram posts and stories. She recently took to social media to share a secret ingredient that she puts in her morning cup of coffee, and you will be quite surprised to know what it is. Take a look at the video she shared:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bhumi ???? (@bhumipednekar) on Nov 3, 2020 at 8:55pm PSTgoogletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

(Also Read:Bhumi Pednekar Swears By Home-Cooked Food And Admits Never Consulting A Dietician)

Ghee was the magic ingredient that Bhumi Pednekar added to her morning cup of coffee. In the video, we saw her pouring in a cup, some water, a spoonful of ghee and coffee powder. She whisked the three together to form a nice cup of frothy coffee, which she said she was having after a break of 50 days. Bhumi Pednekar was savouring every sip of the interesting and unique coffee that she made. You re the coffee that I need in the morning was the song playing in the background of the video. Ghee + Coffee = Happy Morning. #GoodMorning, wrote Bhumi Pednekarin the caption of the post.

Ghee coffee is the high-fat beverage that Bhumi Pednekar was consuming. According to experts, the addition of ghee to the drink makes it speed up weight loss and also provide the body with energy. This is the principle behind the ketogenic diet, which is widely popular these days among fitness enthusiasts, and others who are generally trying to lose weight while at home.

Speaking of diets, Bhumi Pednekar had converted to the vegetarian diet while in lockdown. The actor took to Instagram to share how her journey as a climate warrior helped her make the switch. Take a look at her post:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bhumi ???? (@bhumipednekar) on Oct 13, 2020 at 10:29pm PDT

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(Also Read:Bhumi Pednekar Turns Vegetarian, Anushka Sharma Welcomes Her To The Club)

We hope to see more such snippets of Bhumi Pednekar s fitnesstips and tricks that we could take note from!

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Why-Is-Jaggery-(Or-Gur)-Good-For-Your-Blood-Pressure?-5-Yummy-Recipes Why Is Jaggery (Or Gur) Good For Your Blood Pressure? 5 Yummy Recipes Highlights

High blood pressure occurs when your BP is above 120/80
High blood pressure is becoming very common these days
BP issues could also lead to stroke

Come winters and our cravings for gur hits the roof. Jaggery is an intrinsic part if Indian households. It is used to flavour desserts, rice, roti and even curries sometimes. Many of us still sneak in a bite of the traditional sweetener post dinner just because we have seen our parents do the same, who, in turn, learned from theirs. Jaggery is known to do wonders for our energy levels; it is an excellent substitute for sugar. It is replete with vital vitamins and antioxidants like vitamin C that may help keep seasonal infections at bay and rev up our immunity naturally. It helps stimulate the bowel movement too by acting as a diuretic, and hence very good for digestion. In addition to all this, jaggery may also be a very good addition to the diets of those struggling with high BP issues or hypertension.

Why Is Jaggery Good For Hypertension

Jaggery is a very rich source of potassium. Potassium helps negate the ill-effects caused due to sodium. We all know what impact excess sodium has on blood pressure - it disturbs the water balance, which, in turn, obstructs smooth blood flow through blood vessels. Potassium works as a diuretic - it makes you urinate and expel extra sodium. Therefore, jaggery may help blood pressure spikes in control, but only if it is consumed in moderation.

(Also Read:How is Jaggery (Gur) Helpful in Curing Breathing Disorders?googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

There are many ways in which you can enjoy jaggery. Here are some of our most favourite.

5 Jaggery-Based Recipes That You Must Try:

1. Gur Roti Recipe
This sweet roti is a winter specialty and a delicious departure from your regular flatbreads too.

(Also Read:15 Jaggery(Gur) Benefits: Ever Wondered Why Our Elders End a Meal with Gur?)

2. Gur Ke Chawal Recipe
Another treat we cannot have enough of in the winters. Rice sweetened with jaggery and topped with nuts make for a wholesome fare you do not want to miss.

3. Poha Gur Laddo Recipe
This chunky, sweet ladoo made with flattened rice flakes and jaggery is perfect for those odd-time sweet cravings.

4. Turmeric Jaggery Halwa Recipe
This immunity-boosting halwa is so soft and scrummy, that you are bound to make more often.

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5. Dahi Choora Gur Recipe
This classic breakfast from Bihar is actually a Sankranti special dish, but it is so easy to make that it s hard to resist. Some curd, some jaggery, and some poha- that s all you need to assemble this dish.

Try these recipes and let us know your favourite!

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(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)

Did-You-Know:-Students-In-This-Bali-College-Can-Pay-Tuition-Fees-In-Coconuts-Instead-Of-Cash Did You Know: Students In This Bali College Can Pay Tuition Fees In Coconuts Instead Of Cash Highlights

Amid the economic slowdown, educational institutions are at losses
A college in Bali has decided to accept coconuts as fees from students
The coconuts thus collected will be used to make coconut oil

The pandemic has brought to a standstill industries all across the world. While tourism and hospitality sector continues to grapple with losses, the education sector is also suffering. Schools and colleges largely remain shut or function at low capacity, which is why revenues of educational institutions are continuing to decline. Further, loss of livelihood and reduced income has become a major reason for economic slowdown. A hospitality college in Bali has come up with an interesting solution to this problem.

According to a report in The Bali Sun, Venus One Tourism Academy in Tegalalang, Bali, has allowed its students to pay their tuition fees in coconuts instead of cash. This is a great option for families who are unable to pay the fees due to economic slowdown and losses. Further, this initiative has incorporated the spirit of entrepreneurship in the students as the coconuts they bring in are being used to produce virgin coconut oil.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

(Also Read:Did You Know? This Common Error Is Making Your Cooked Rice Mushy And Sticky!)

Coconut oil is being produced from the coconuts submitted as fees.

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The Academy s director, Wayan Pasek Adi Putra, told Bali Puspa, Because of this Covid pandemic, we have adapted a flexible policy. We produce virgin coconut oil, so students can pay their tuition by bringing coconuts. The school also accepts moringa leaves as fees, as well as the leaves from gotu kola, a local medicinal plant. According to the report, the coconut oil and assorted leaves will be combined into herbal soap products, which will be sold to raise money for the academy.

What a great way to harness natural resources and convert them into a viable source of income! We hope many more such educational institutions across the globe will follow suit.

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Watch:-Try-Sweet-And-Sour-Chana-Dal-Paratha-Recipe-For-Unique,-Protein-Rich-Breakfast Watch: Try Sweet And Sour Chana Dal Paratha Recipe For Unique, Protein-Rich Breakfast Highlights

Chana dal is extremely rich in proteins.
Make this sweet and sour chana dal paratha for breakfast.
Watch the recipe video to make it at home.

Give us paratha every morning for breakfast, and we won t complain. There are so many ways you can make paratha with different kinds of fillings - it can never get boring. If you are constantly looking for different paratha recipes, you don t have to look any further. Here is a unique recipe of chana dalparatha that will astound you and will take your family by surprise, especially the kids. This paratha is nothing like you would ve had before. So get ready to welcome a stunning new arrival to your breakfast menu.

Chana dal is known for its high protein content, and makes for the perfect food for breakfast diet. Chana dal paratha is a great option to make a satiating meal, but this particular recipe from YouTube channel Manjula s Kitchen is truly exceptional. Sweet, sour and spicy - these three contrasting flavours blend in to make a landmine of flavours. Coconut powder adds its nutty taste and creamy texture. Sugar, along with spices like cardamom powder and fennel powder, adds gobs of sweetness. Red chilli powder and mango powder lend spiciness and sourness.

Watch: Sweet And Sour Chana Dal Paratha Recipe Video

(Also Read:High-Protein Breakfast -Try PaneerOmelette For An Extra Kick Of Taste And Health)googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

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Knead dough with a mixture of whole-wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt and oil, let it rest for 10 minutes. Wash and pressure cook the dal for 25 minutes to make it soft but not too mushy. Drain excessive water, dal, and all the spices like fennel, red chili, mango powder, coconut powder, asafoetida, and salt. While stirring, press the dal with the back of ladle to remove water and cook till there s no water left but the dal is still moist.

Use the dal mixture for your paratha filling and enjoy a special morning feast with your family.

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Viral:-Not-So-Traditional-Paneer-Tikka-Trends-On-Twitter-Amidst-US-Polls;-Netizens-React-Strongly Viral: Not-So-Traditional Paneer Tikka Trends On Twitter Amidst US Polls; Netizens React Strongly Highlights

#PaneerTikka trended on Twitter alongside #DonaldTrump #KamalaHarris etc
It started after an Indian-American Congresswoman tweeted a picture
However, the image was not of a traditional paneer tikka

Ahead of the much-awaited US Elections 2020, Twitter was taken by surprise when the desi comfort food paneer tikka started trending on the micro-blogging site alongside topics like #DonaldTrump, #JoeBiden #USElection et al. This came after Pramila Jayapal, an Indian-American Congresswoman, posted a picture on her Twitter handle and mentioned paneer tikka to be her comfort food and a compulsive, night-before-election activity . She further wrote that this dish was made in honour of Democratic Vice-Presidential nominee Kamala Harris. For the uninitiated, Harris, in a recent video on Twitter, revealed that any kind of tikka is one of her favourite Indian foods.

However, going by the Twitter thread, it seems Jayapal s version of Paneer Tikka failed to impress the Twitterers. While a traditional tikka is dry and roasted, the picture she tweeted was of a gravy-based dish. Let s take a look at the tweet:

Compulsive, night-before-election activity: make comfort food. That s paneer tikka tonight, in honor of electing #KamalaHarris Veep tomorrow since she just said on Instagram that her favorite North Indian food is any kind of tikka! Let s go, people! VOTE! #BidenHarris2020pic.twitter.com/gqyT7BotgGgoogletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });— Pramila Jayapal (@PramilaJayapal) November 3, 2020

Several people instantly took to their Twitter handle to criticise Jayapal s post and called the dish an awfully wrong recipe . Some even trolled the tweet by sharing pictures of different dishes with wrong names.

Glad people can now see with open eyes what you re serving them ... An awfully wrong recipe ..! ????‍♀️????????????#paneertikkahttps://t.co/aL16vRSYRs

— Poonam Adarsh T ???????? (@patopedia) November 3, 2020

After quoting this in my previous tweet I went on to read the comments. They will make you burst in laughter.????????????
I wish Pramila Jayapal and Kamla Harris were at the least be a little more Indian than they claim #paneertikkahttps://t.co/5mLfZOAx4f

— Sadhvi Jaya Bharti (@SJayaBharti) November 4, 2020

Hello @PramilaJayapal always correct yourself before tweet , instead of putting picture of #PaneerTikka you posted #PaneerKadai ...????#PramilaJayapal anything for #Votehttps://t.co/UlbOEUEv3Spic.twitter.com/KLCgTrRnxO

— Joydeep Roy (@IjoydeepRoy) November 3, 2020

Well if this is Paneer Tikka, then this is PURI SABJII ???????? #paneertikka#purisabjihttps://t.co/Dk40J3I2w9pic.twitter.com/IJLQVU8Lk6

— Ankita - foodiechori (@foodiechori) November 3, 2020

However, later in a follow-up tweet, Pramila Jayapal mentioned the dish to be paneer tikka masala (not simple paneer tikka) and shared the recipe alongside.

By popular demand, the recipe for Paneer Tikka Masala, slightly adapted from the fabulous @twosleevers! You can either eat the tikka on its own, or add the masala (sauce) which is like a curry. Enjoy! pic.twitter.com/0tNyEZOWN4

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Winter-Diet:-This-Jaggery-(Gur)-Chutney-May-Work-Wonders-To-Boost-Immunity Winter Diet: This Jaggery (Gur) Chutney May Work Wonders To Boost Immunity Highlights

Jaggery (gur) is used in Indian cuisine beyond just traditional desserts
It is brimming with many health benefits
Here is a tantalising gur ki chutney recipe you can try this winter

Jaggery, or gur, is a popular natural alternative of refined sugar. Due to its distinct strong flavour, it is used across many traditional recipes, both sweet as well as savoury. Often touted for its multiple health benefits, jaggery boasts of certain minerals that are beneficial for our health. Phosphorus, iron, magnesium, zinc, selenium, potassium are some of the minerals found aplenty in jaggery. Moreover, jaggery comes loaded with antioxidants, which help boost the immune system and help body to fight against diseases. No wonder our parents and grandparents kept reminding us to load up on jaggery in the winter season!

Health Benefits Of Jaggery:

According to Dietitian Sunita Chowdhary from BLK Super Speciality Hospital, Jaggery is considered warm as it gives enough calories to keep the body warm. It also helps to dilate blood vessels and produces warmth in the body. It is therefore, said to be beneficial to have jaggery in winters. Besides that Jaggery has a good amount of vitamin C and is also used as a traditional remedy for respiratory disorders and throat problems. Besides all this and more, what amazes us the most is the number of ways one can consume gur in regular meals. While many of us would know the quintessential winter combination of sarso ka saag with makke ki roti served with plenty of gur on the side, there are many delicacies that can be prepared with the sweetener too!googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

(Also Read:Why Is Jaggery (Or Gur) Good For Your Blood Pressure? 5 Yummy Recipes You d Love!)

Jaggery has a good amount of vitamin C and is also used as a traditional remedy for respiratory disorders and throat problems.Jaggery For Cooking:

From traditional winter sweets like halwa, kheer, ladoos and chikkis to savoury dishes like roti and sabzis such as phaliyan, jaggery is used in various dishes in Indian cuisine. But did you know that you can even make tantalising chutney from the humble jaggery? Yes, you read that right!

Jaggery Chutney Recipe | Gur Ki Chutney Recipe

This Gur chutney, a speciality from Eastern India, has jaggery sauteed in some mustard oil. It is then mixed with crushed olives, salt, paanch-phoron, chilli powder and roasted jeera, cooked or a while and finished with a dash of honey. Doeesn t it sound like the perfect balance of sweet and tangy? You bet it is!

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Find the full recipe of gur ki chutney here.

Pair this in winter with some steamed rice or dry sabzis in a wholesome meal!

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Diwali-2020:-Date,-Time,-Significance-Of-Deepavali-Puja-And-Festive-Recipes-To-Try Diwali 2020: Date, Time, Significance Of Deepavali Puja And Festive Recipes To Try Highlights

Diwali 2020 falls on 14th November which is a Saturday
It is one of the most popular and much-awaited Hindu festivals
Here s all you need to know about Deepavali and Lakshmi Puja

After celebrating Navratri and Dussehra, Diwali is right around the corner. The much-awaited Hindu festival is fast approaching, as people eagerly look forward to the festivities. Although the pandemic may have brought a halt to large congregations and Diwali gatherings, that doesn t mean that spirits should be dampened. Diwali or Deepavali is one of the widely celebrated festivals of the country. The day is said to mark the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. People clean their houses, deck them up with lights and decorations to celebrate the day.

Diwali 2020 Date | When Is Diwali 2020?

This year, Diwali falls on 14th November, 2020 (Saturday). The festivities begin from 13th November, which is Dhanteras (Friday). Diwali is also followed by Govardhan Puja on 15th November (Sunday) and Bhaiya Dooj on 16th November (Monday).

(Also Read:7 Interesting Ways to De-Clutter and Spruce Up Your Kitchen this Festive Season)

It is common to see decorations and lighting on households.Diwali Puja Timings | Lakshmi Puja Timings In Major Indian Cities

Goddess Lakshmi is of special significance on Diwali day. Many people choose to keep a fast to pray to the goddess of wealth on this auspicious day.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

Lakshmi Puja Muhurat - 05:28 PM to 07:24 PM (In New Delhi, India)

Duration - 01 Hour 56 Mins

Pradosh Kaal - 05:28 PM to 08:07 PM

Vrishabha Kaal - 05:28 PM to 07:24 PM

Amavasya Tithi Begins - 02:17 PM on Nov 14, 2020

Amavasya Tithi Ends - 10:36 AM on Nov 15, 2020

Lakshmi Puja Muhurat in Other Cities

05:58 PM to 07:59 PM - Pune

05:41 PM to 07:43 PM - Chennai

05:37 PM to 07:33 PM - Jaipur

05:42 PM to 07:42 PM - Hyderabad

05:29 PM to 07:25 PM - Gurgaon

05:26 PM to 07:21 PM - Chandigarh

04:54 PM to 06:52 PM - Kolkata

06:01 PM to 08:01 PM - Mumbai

05:52 PM to 07:54 PM - Bengaluru

05:57 PM to 07:55 PM - Ahmedabad

05:28 PM to 07:23 PM - Noida

(Source: drikpanchang.com)

Diwali involves praying to Goddess Lakshmi and lighting deep or diyas.Diwali 2020 Significance, Rituals And Customs

Diwali is said to be the day that Lord Rama returned after a fourteen year exile to be reinstated as the king of Ayodhya. The citizens rejoiced at the return of their king, and thus Diwali was born. Also known as the festival of lights , or Deepavali , it is customary to light earthen diyas and candles to celebrate the day. Homes are cleaned and decorated and Rangolis are painted on the floor. People purchase and wear new clothes and jewellery during this period, and pray to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. Kali Puja is performed in Eastern States of India such as Bengal, and in Tamil Nadu the day is celebrated as Narak Chatardushi. It is also a common practice to visit friends, relatives and near and dear ones with gifts, dry fruitsand sweets to wish them on Diwali.

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(Also Read: Here sA Fully Planned Diwali Menu With Yummy Vegetarian Recipes)

Kaju Barfi is a sweet which is widely gifted on Diwali.Festive Dishes For Diwali 2020 | Best Diwali 2020 Recipes

Sweets are integral to any festival, and Diwali is no different. A plethora of sweets are made and gifted to loved ones for the occasion. This includes Kaju Katli, Soan Papdi, Motichoor ke Laddoo and so much more. Diwali parties also include a number of savoury desi delicacies such as kachori, samosa and cutlets. There is a significant room for creativitywhen it comes to the Diwali menu, so take your pick from your favourite dishes!

CommentsHappy Diwali 2020!

Vitamin-B3-For-Skin-Health:-5-Winter-Vegetables-That-Can-Protect-Your-Skin-From-Harmful-UV-Rays Vitamin B3 For Skin Health: 5 Winter Vegetables That Can Protect Your Skin From Harmful UV Rays Highlights

Greens pea is loaded with niacin and antioxidants
The benefits of spinach is no secret to the world
Cabbage is loaded with niacin and helps promote better digestion

Vitamin B3, also known as Niacin, is one important nutrient in our body that may help promote better digestion, manage diabetes, reduce heart-related risks and more. It is a water-soluble vitamin that travels through blood stream and gets exhausted very often. Hence, constant supply of vitamin B3 is a must for every individual. Besides being good for gut and heart, this vitamin also has a positive effect on our skin health. As per experts, it protects us from sun damage and has anti-ageing effects.

Adding to the benefits, a new study has recently found that increasing consumption of vitamin B3 may help protect our body from severe damages caused by harmful UV rays including non-melanoma skin cancer. The findings were presented at the 29th Congress of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) - EADV Virtual.

As per Lara Camillo, a research student from the dermatological unit of AOU universitaria Maggiore della Carita, Novara, Italy, Our study indicates that increasing the consumption of vitamin B3, which is readily available in the daily diet, will protect the skin from some of the effects of UV exposure, potentially reducing the incidence of non-melanoma skin cancers. However, the protective effect of vitamin B3 is short-acting, so it should be consumed no later than 24 to 48 hours before sun exposure. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

Keeping this in mind, we bring you some vitamin B3-rich vegetable options that are easily available during winters. Let s take a look!

Here re 5 Winter Vegetable Options For You:

1. Green Pea- One of the most common winter vegetables, greens pea is loaded with niacin and antioxidants that may reduce the risks of cancer. Alongside, green pea also contains vitamin K, fibre and several other important nutrients that are known to have several health benefits.

2. Sweet Potatoes- Also known as shakarkandi, this root vegetable not only helps you whip up delicious chaat during winters, but also offers several health benefits. It provides you ample amount of vitamin B3 that further promotes healthy skin.

3. Spinach- The benefits of spinach is no secret to the world. It is crunchy, healthy and helps you whip up wholesome dishes anytime you want. Add it to your diet to get a good dose of vitamin B3 on a regular basis.

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4. Broccoli- Broccoli is one vitamin-enriched vegetable that can do wonders for your overall mind and body, including boosting skin health.

5. Cabbage- Cabbage is loaded with niacin and helps promote better digestion and metabolism. Include cabbage in your diet and provide your body with essential nutrients for overall wellbeing.

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Diwali-2020:-This-5-Ingredient-Coconut-Barfi-Uses-No-Ghee,-Chashni-Or-Khoya! Diwali 2020: This 5-Ingredient Coconut Barfi Uses No Ghee, Chashni Or Khoya! Highlights

Barfi is a quintessential Indian festive sweet
There are many different kinds of barfis
Coconut barfi can be easily prepared at home

The season of festivals is upon us and we have a new-found appetite for all things decadent and intensely sweet. If there s anything that screams festival it has to be a plate of barfi. It is tough to imagine Diwali celebrations without it, and that is why we have decided to try our hands on making some this year. Yes, we absolutely dig the ones we find at the local halwai shops, but there is an inimitable charm about home-made sweets, and let s not forget how everyone appreciates a certain personal touch to festive gifting.

(Also Read:Watch: How To Make Barfi At Home In Just 5 Minutes (Recipe Video Inside)

If you think making barfi could be a taxing affair, wait till you watch this barfi recipe by food vlogger and YouTuber Parul. Posted on the YouTube Channel Cook With Parul this barfi uses only a few common ingredients like milk, sugar, cardamom, desiccated coconut and malai or fresh cream. Malai and fresh cream is optional, it works as a substitute for khoya. In a pan, heat milk and mix it with sugar and cardamom powder. Add some desiccated coconut, malai and mix again on low to medium flame. To make it thicker and richer, you can also add some milk powder. Transfer the barfi mix to a greased tin and let it freeze. Make sure you do not overcook else the barfi could turn out to be very dry. Once your barfi is set, garnish with dry fruits and serve.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });Promoted

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(Also Read:Missing Barfi? Here s How You Can Make Moong Dal Ki Barfi At Home)

Try this barfi recipe and let us know how you liked it in the comments below!

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Vitamin-D-Intake-During-Pregnancy-Linked-To-Greater-IQ-Among-Children Vitamin D Intake During Pregnancy Linked To Greater IQ Among Children

Vitamin D and its benefits are being discussed across the world, especially during COVID times where our exposure to sun has reduced drastically. Also known as the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D deficiency is known to impact your bones and be detrimental to your overall health. A study published in The Journal of Nutrition showed that mothers vitamin D levels during pregnancy could be linked with their children s IQ. In other words, women with higher vitamin D intake during pregnancy may have children with greater childhood IQ scores. Another observation the study made was that vitamin D levels among Black pregnant women was significantly lower than White women.

Melissa Melough, the lead author of the study and research scientist in the Department of Child Health, Behavior, and Development at Seattle Children s Research Institute, says vitamin D deficiency is common among the general population as well as pregnant women, but Black women could be at greater risk.

Sunlight is the bet source of Vitamin D
Photo Credit: iStock

Melanin pigment protects the skin against sun damage, but by blocking UV rays, melanin also reduces vitamin D production in the skin. Because of this, we weren t surprised to see high rates of vitamin D deficiency among Black pregnant women in our study. Even though many pregnant women take a prenatal vitamin, this may not correct an existing vitamin D deficiency, Melough said.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display( adslotNativeVideo ); });

Among the women who participated in the study, approximately 46 per cent of the mothers were found to be vitamin D deficient during their pregnancy, vitamin D levels were lower among Black women compared to White women.
For the study, Melough and her co-authors used data from a cohort in Tennessee called the Conditions Affecting Neurocognitive Development and Learning in Early Childhood (CANDLE) study. Candle started collecting data since the year 2006.
After controlling other factors related to IQ, the researchers found that the higher vitamin D levels in pregnancy were associated with higher IQ in children ages 4 to 6 years old.

I want people to know that it s a common problem and can affect children s development. Vitamin D deficiency can occur even if you eat a healthy diet. Sometimes it s related to our lifestyles, skin pigmentation or other factors outside of our control, Melough said.

While Vitamin D is a tricky vitamin to load up on, many people rely tend to rely on supplements, added Melough.
If you still feel you are not doing enough, and want to make your diet vitamin D rich, it is always a good idea to look for things around you. Most common vitamin D-rich foods are:

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1. Fatty fish:Fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna are not only high in vitamin D but also omega 3 fatty acids and protein.
2. Eggs: Eggs along with yolk could be considered as a decent vitamin D source too. Moreover, eggs are also enriched with protein, choline, vitamin A and more.
3. Cow s milk: Again a very good source of vitamin D, protein and calcium. Many pregnant women often feel lactose intolerant, so drink it only if it suits you, and after consulting your gynaecologist.
4. Mushrooms: Vitamin D-enriched mushrooms could be a versatile addition to your breakfast, lunch or dinner.
5. Orange juice: At times, even fortified orange juice is a good idea to kick-start a day.

The food recommendations are not part of the study. Also, it is highly recommended that you consult an expert before you make any major alteration to your diet.

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(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)

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