DIET TIPS FOR TEACHERS

We really appreciate the efforts you put in for every child to guide them and to inspire them. However being a teacher can be difficult sometimes, as the week drags on and with all the hustle and bustle, it can be hard to maintain a happy mind and soul. Also most teachers would agree that the most stressful part of the day is not dealing with students but having a cup of tea or having a small snack which is virtually impossible.
But in order to work efficiently and effectively, we need to focus on the following:

 Do not skip meals - For most of you teachers, mornings are early and with all the running around, one tend to skip breakfast. Breakfast will keep you energetic and will help to keep your blood glucose levels and energy levels stable. Some of the good breakfast options are Upma / Poha / Idli / Egg omelette etc.

 Pack a high energy meal - For the day-to-day needs of your body in a high-paced, stressful job like teaching, you need healthy protein rich foods to control the mood swings and hunger pangs. Pack in a protein rich mid meal snacks like Lobia chaat, Besan omelette etc for break time.

 Sip on water throughout the day - Most often teachers hydrate themselves with the wrong drinks or avoid drinking water because of the urge to use the toilet. But you need to hydrate yourself in order to prevent dehydration. Healthy options include coconut water, milkshake, kokum juice, buttermilk etc.

 Munch on healthy snacks - If you find it’s easier to snack during the day between classes, (or during your teeny lunch break), bring along a box of your favourite healthy nuts and seeds (such as almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, sunflower seeds or pistachios) or even some fresh fruit.

 Come to home cooked meal - When you reach home it’s your peak hunger time instead of going straight for lunch or dinner try instead having a glass of water followed by a fruit, salad or bowl of curd. This will prevent you from over eating in the coming meal.

Being a working woman can be tough as between work and home, there usually is little space for one’s health. As a teacher/educator, women need to keep their energy levels constant, this starts with eating wholesome meals. Packing a lunch that balances good carbs with healthy fat and lean proteins are the ideal way to strike a balance in a tiffin box.
Here are ideas on some lunch options:

• Chowli cutlet - Chowli (Cowpea) is rich source of vegetarian protein also provides potassium and copper which help maintain a high metabolism. The combination of the soluble fibre from the bean and the digestive boosting powers of coriander seed & mint make this a good recipe for those with poor digestive health.

• Kala chana cutlet - Kala chana is another source of protein which helps stay fuller for longer. It contains calcium and iron which are responsible for healthy bones & blood cells. Apart from that it fights cholesterol levels while the flavonoids in them defend against cardiovascular disease.

• Som tam salad - Apart from being rich in protein and calcium, paneer is a great source of conjugated linoleic acid- which helps lose weight by increasing the fat burning process. While the walnuts and avocados contain a good dose of healthy fats and fibre.

• Avocado, paneer & walnut lettuce wrap - This dish is rich in Vit A, C and folate all of which help in maintaining a clear and glowing complexion. Red Cabbage is a rich source of Vit C and E which reduces ageing and fight free radical damage.