Dia Mirza needs no introduction when it comes to her love and passion for the environment. As such, the United Nations' Goodwill Ambassador took to Instagram to share a poignant thought on how a plant-based diet is crucial not only for one's health and nutrition but also for the planet. Take a look. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dia Mirza Rekhi (@diamirzaofficial) "This week the world broke the daily temperature record. This affects us. Each and every one of us. Every individual can #ActOnClimate. One of the ways to make a difference at an individual level is to eat seasonal and local fruits and vegetables. Practice a mostly #PlantBasedDiet to act on climate," read the caption to the post urging everyone to join the movement to help achieve the #GlobalGoals. "Every one of us can #ActNow to help create a better and more sustainable future. In India, we have always known and understood the benefits of plant-based meals. Give me dal, chawal, sabzi and I am happiest! What is your favourite home-cooked food?" Mirza added. In the video shared alongside, Mirza, 41, said, "I love ghar ka khana. Hazy green lentils, and cereals are so good for nutrition and our human health. And also healthy for the planet." She urged everyone to switch to a plant-based diet. "A great way to act on climate is to eat on a plant-based diet or mostly plant-based diet. Eat seasonal and local fruits and vegetables," said Mirza, showcasing her meal comprising ladyfinger, palak dal, and minced gobhi with rotis. Can switching to a plant-based diet be good for you? Dr Priyanka Rohatgi, chief clinical dietician, Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore said that as per the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics appropriately planned vegetarian, including vegan, diets are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits for the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. "These diets are appropriate for all stages of the life cycle, including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, adolescence, older adulthood, and for athletes. Plant-based diets are more environmentally sustainable than diets rich in animal products because they use fewer natural resources and are associated with much less environmental damage," said Dr Rohatgi. Complex carbohydrates found in whole grains like oats, brown rice, and quinoa, as well as fruits, vegetables, and starchy foods like potatoes and sweet potatoes, provide the necessary energy for intense workouts, explained dietician Shalini Tyagi, Msc (food and nutrition), Dietetics Diploma, HCG Hospital, Ahmedabad. "Healthy fats from avocados, nuts, seeds, and plant-based oils offer crucial support for hormone production and nutrient absorption. Additionally, the abundance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds present in a plant-based diet can aid in recovery, reduce inflammation, and enhance immune function," said Tyagi. 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!
