It’s all about balance

As a costume designer, Mridul Patwardhan enjoyed working for films like Harishchandrachi Factory, Shala and Ab Tak Chhappan and won a few awards too. But the hectic work schedule affected her health and she suffered from multiple sclerosis. Which is why she decided to change her career and become a certified nutritionist. 

Having studied Nutrition Science and Exercise Science at K11 Academy of Fitness Sciences, Pune, and securing a certificate in fitness and nutrition for special population from Pearson Institute of Higher Education — Midrand, Patwardhan has been a nutritionist for the past four years. “I was a costume designer but the hectic schedule affected my health. I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and weighed 112 kg. In fact, I faced many problems in everyday activities and that is when I decided to have a better lifestyle,” says she.  

EXERCISE IS A MUST 
A firm advocate for healthy nutrition, Patwardhan feels that a combination of 70 per cent good food, 20 per cent exercise and 10 per cent water is essential for fitness. “Exercise to strengthen the muscles. Remember, push, pull and lift are the three important actions, and one hour of daily exercise is a must. Physical activities help our bodies to absorb nutrients from the food,” she says.   

She advises that nutrition is not about low fat or low calorie. It is also not about staying hungry or feeling deprived, it is all about nourishing the body with real whole foods so that you are consistently satisfied and energised to live life to the fullest. “I always think of the purpose behind eating —  how will it impact my body. If I go on a trek to reduce weight, I try to have one meal a day. If I want to increase weight, I try to have the correct amount of food, not excess. I cook all my meals in ghee; I don’t use vegetable oil,” says Patwardhan, adding, “If you don’t take out time for good health, you will have to spend time making visits to the doctor.”

BALANCING IT 
When it comes to nutrition we often wonder how to balance proteins, carbohydrates and fats. However, Partwardhan suggests that carbohydrates should be minimum in our meals. “We should have proteins, but the amount one needs depends on the individual’s physical activities, weight, and blood parameters. The ratio of protein to fat will be different for underweight and overweight people. For good metabolism, there has to be a balance between proteins, fats and water. If you do more physical activities, you should consume more protein,” she advises.  

DON’T FALL FOR FADS 
In our obsession to lose weight, we often fall for health fads and diet trends. Dissing the idea, Patwardhan, says, “These are just techniques and not all techniques apply to everyone. That said, I don’t believe in ‘dieting’. I rather think that everyone must follow the right nutrition. There should be a purpose behind everything that you eat and include in your food routine. The quantity, combination, time and purpose is essential.” 

HEALTHY INDIAN KITCHEN 
Indian kitchens are full of items that pack a healthy punch. Patwardhan says that bajra, jowar, nachni etc which are all healthy, are easily available in our Indian kitchens. 
“Wheat, on the other hand, should be avoided because our body doesn’t need that much of gluten. One must eat different types of dals, sprouts and dairy products which are good sources of protein. Non-vegetarians should eat chicken, mutton, fish and eggs. However, red meat increases uric acid level in one’s body, hence you must limit its consumption,” she advises.