Lockdown with lentils!

Naini Setalvad urges us to beat the COVID-19 blues with basic

- Naini Setalvad

Life has taken an unprecedented turn for all of us. While some of us were out preparing for a job promotion or a family addition or even a mini-vacation, each and every plan has come to a standstill due to COVID-19. Now, here we are, a few weeks into the lockdown. I am thankful to be home and safe, focussing on the one thing I can control in these times—the food I am using to nourish and nurture my body and my mind.

The food that we eat is not just for sustenance and energy; eating food that is good for the soul also helps in creating a positive mindset and gives an overall sense of peace.

I have figured out the easiest meal to eat, to feel good and healthy—the simple dal chawal (dal and rice) or dal roti (dal and Indian bread) or khichdi (a mix of dal and rice) along with the humble but mighty onion. When suggesting these meals to clients over the past few weeks, they have come to me with feedback saying they do feel better after eating these combinations at mealtimes. I too can attest for it, as my body and soul sing with joy when I eat one of these nutritionally complete, stand-alone meals.

It is a sincere request to all to fear not the holy grain. India has a vast variety of whole grains; even just rice or wheat is good fuel for your body, which will keep you going. These complex carbohydrates are known to satiate you as they are high in fibre and contain powerful antioxidants and Vitamin B which are excellent in boosting your immunity and improving your mood and digestion.