Importance of Exercise and Healthy snacking, with Almonds showcased in Pune 

November 21^st , Pune : Almonds – commonly known as the king of nuts are not only versatile, crunchy and delicious but also offer natural goodness in every bite. They contain many essential nutrients, including protein and healthy fats, making them a nutrient-rich and convenient snack that can help keep you going throughout the day. Popular Chef Navin Kishore Lakhera and renowned Nutritionist Avanti Deshpandeconducted a live cooking demonstration and a presentation on learnings from various nutrition studies on the health benefits of almonds. The interactive session also included a live demonstration by respected fitness expert Mayank Deo who spoke about the importance of following a regular exercise regime in addition to a healthy diet including almonds.

Through the session, Chef Navin Kishore Lakhera demonstrated a few delicious and healthy snacking recipes which are also easy and quick to make. This was followed by a workout session led by fitness expert Abhay Sharma who showcased some basic exercises that can be easily done at home and, shared his views on incorporating small changes, like eating a handful of almonds every day and working out regularly, to help maintain a healthy life. Following the fitness session, Nutritionist Avanti Deshpande took to the stage to talk about the various health and nutritional benefits of eating almonds. She spoke about almonds’ anti-oxidant qualities (being rich in vitamin E), role in satiety, weight[i] and diabetes[ii]management and maintaining a healthy heart[iii] as demonstrated by decades of published research.

Nutritionist Avanti Deshpande said, “The increasing incidence of heart disease, obesity and other lifestyle-related issues calls for continuous focus on a healthy diet in today’s fast paced life. One simple step towards healthier eating is by incorporating healthy snacks like almonds in your daily diet. A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that a daily snack of 42 grams of almonds, consumed as part of an overall healthy diet, improved a number of risk factors for heart disease. In addition to significantly improving Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL/bad) cholesterol, snacking on almonds also reduced central adiposity (belly fat) and waist circumference, all well-established heart disease risk factors[iv].”

Chef Navin Kishore, prepared simple yet delicious almond snack recipes in a matter of minutes, added, “Eating healthy does not mean you have to give up eating snacks. Smart snacking is the key! A handful of almonds, for instance, may have satiating properties that promote feelings of fullness, which may keep hunger at bay between meals[v] and steer you away from less healthy options. They are an ideal ‘smart snack’!”

“Owing to our extremely busy lifestyle, exercise of any kind may take a back-seat for many people. However, not taking care of one’s health and fitness may lead to sedentary lifestyle related ailments. Hence, in addition to eating a balanced diet, it is imperative to do some type of exercise every day. You do not have to hit the gym, go for a run or walk but even simple exercises at home done right every day, can go a long way. Regular exercise plus healthy eating including snacking on fruits and nuts like almonds will make a healthy difference to your life”, said fitness expert Mayank Deo, who concluded the live demonstrations with a 15-minute exercise session.

Follow a regular workout plan, eat balance eat meals and, snack smart with almonds to start leading a healthier life.

Recipes showcased at the live cooking demonstration:

1. Kaala Masala Almonds

Serves: 2

Steps:

· Toss the almonds with the spices and olive oil, sea salt and toasted in a pan or 7 minutes in a moderate oven.

Nutrient Analysis Per Serving:

2. Haldi Mirchi Badam

Serves: 2

Steps:

· Heat oil and add all the spices and seasonings.

· Add the almonds.

· Toss well. Cool and serve

Nutrient Analysis per Serving: