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The Breakfast battle: Indian vs American spread for a healthy start
The fermentation process inherent in many Indian dishes imparts probiotics, while the liberal use of herbs and spices bestows additional health benefits.
American VS Indian breakfast / Image- Unsplash
Breakfast, the quintessential kick-start to the day, holds the promise of fueling our bodies and minds for the challenges ahead. Yet, the choices we make in the morning can significantly impact our health and well-being.
Here we compare and contrast the Indian and American breakfast traditions, looking at the science behind each to see which one is better for a healthy start to the day.
Indian breakfast
The rich variety of Indian breakfast offerings reflects the diverse culinary traditions that span the length and breadth of the subcontinent. From the comforting allure of parathas in Punjab to the savory delights of idli and dosa in the south, each dish is imbued with a rich blend of flavors and nutrients. These traditional breakfast options boast a balance of carbohydrates, fats, iron, and fiber, setting the stage for a healthy day ahead.
Image-Unsplash / Idli sambharHowever, despite their nutritional prowess, Indian breakfast staples often fall short in certain aspects, notably protein and fiber content. Bhakti Samanth, chief dietitian at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Mumbai, underscores the importance of fortifying these dishes with protein-rich additions such as sprouts or paneer, and fiber-packed vegetables to enhance their nutritional profile.
The Western breakfast
In stark contrast, convenience-driven options like cereals, toast, and pastries dominate the typical American breakfast scene. While quick and easy to prepare, these choices often come laden with hidden sugars and processed ingredients, posing a risk to metabolic health. Samanth cautions against the allure of processed breakfast fare, advocating instead for healthier alternatives like overnight oats or vegetable omelettes.
Image- Unsplash / American breakfast
Nutritional face-off
In the battle of the breakfasts, the nutritional scales tip in favor of the Indian spread. While both cuisines may offer similar calorie counts, Indian breakfasts boast lower carbohydrates, higher protein, and less fat compared to their American counterparts. Moreover, the fermentation process inherent in many Indian dishes imparts probiotics, while the liberal use of herbs and spices bestows additional health benefits.
Scientific research corroborates the notion of the "glucose rollercoaster" induced by high-sugar breakfast choices. When blood sugar levels soar after consuming sugary breakfast items, the body responds by releasing insulin to facilitate glucose uptake into cells for energy production. However, this insulin surge can overshoot the mark, leading to a rapid decline in blood glucose levels, commonly referred to as a "crash." Consequently, individuals experience a pronounced dip in energy levels, accompanied by feelings of lethargy and mental fog.
On the other hand,traditional Indian breakfast options emerge as a beacon of balanced nutrition and sustained energy. Dishes like idli, dosa, and parathas are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, and protein, imparting a gradual and steady release of glucose into the bloodstream. This gradual release ensures sustained energy levels throughout the morning, without the peaks and valleys associated with the sugar rollercoaster.
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