My doctor said I need to take more fiber. Can you please explain why I need an increased intake of fiber?

Fiber is very crucial for us; it stabilises our blood sugar levels, maintains normal bowel movements, helps in lowering cholesterol and it keeps you full for longer which is beneficial for people trying to lose weight. But make sure you’re getting your fiber from natural resources like fruits, vegetables, bran bread, whole wheat chappati etc.

What are the benefits of spices in food? Which ones should I include in my everyday foods?

Spices are a major part of our food. Without them our food would be TASTELESS! Ginger is an anti-bacterial herb; you can add it in your tea and homemade curries; brings lovely flavour to our food. Black pepper and cinnamon are quite good for diabetics. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory effects. As winters are approaching you can add one pinch of it in a cup of hot milk and take advantage of its medicinal properties. Lastly, garlic and pepper are good for your heart.

What do you think about artificial sweeteners?

DITCH THEM! Yes, you read that right. One to two teaspoons of cane/brown sugar in a cup tea/coffee, three times a day won’t hurt. At least it is free from all the chemicals found in artificial sweeteners.

I have been thinking of switching to diet sodas. Is it less worse than regular sodas?

They are terrible. Don’t fall for these marketing gimmicks. Diet sodas have a lot of additives, preservatives and hidden synthetic sugar. The sugars don’t release insulin, which of course doesn’t cause our blood sugars to go up. This might sound great but it’s not. If our bodies don’t stimulate the release of insulin, those sugars go straight to the liver and build up around it; which affects the functioning of liver leading to liver diseases.

What are the best kinds of tea or detox water to include in my diet?

Add ginger, cinnamon, cardamom and cumin in your tea to make it delicious as well as healthy. And you don’t need any detox water. A healthy liver and kidneys are enough to detoxify your body.