Ludhiana showcases the Importance of Exercise and Healthy snacking, with Almonds

Ludhiana, November 14, 2017: 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 Head Chef Neeraj, Hyatt Regency Ludhiana and renowned Nutritionist Simrat Kathuria conducted 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, Vikas Rawat, Hyatt Regency Ludhiana who spoke about the importance of following a regular exercise regime in addition to a healthy diet including almonds.

Through the session, Chef Neeraj 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, Vikas Rawat, Hyatt Regency Ludhiana 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 Simrat Kathuria 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 Simrat Kathuria 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 Neeraj , 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, Vikas Rawat, Hyatt Regency Ludhiana, who concluded the live demonstrations with a 15-minute exercise session.

Sudarshan Mazumdar – Regional Director - India, Almond Board of California also addressed the media and told in detail about various aspects and functioning of Almond Board of California. He spoke about the role of Almond Board of California.

Recipes showcased at the live cooking demonstration:

1. Kaala Masala Almonds
Serves: 2

Ingredient Qty
Almonds 60 g
Salt To taste
Olive oil 5 ml
Cinnamon powder 1 tsp
Nutmeg powder ½ tsp

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:
Calories 228.45kcal Protein 6.45g
Total fat 22.5g Saturated 0.45g
Monounsaturated 11.4g Polyunsaturated 3.9g
Carbohydrates 6.45g Fibre 6g
Cholesterol - Sodium 273.9mg
Calcium 72.9mg Magnesium 116.4mg
Potassium 12.9mg Vitamin E 9mg

2. Haldi Mirchi Badam

Serves: 2

Ingredients Qty
Blanched & Peeled Almonds 60g
Oil 1 tbsp
Turmeric powder ½ tsp
Black pepper 1/2 tsp
Red chilli powder ½ tsp
Salt 1/3 tsp
Amchoor powder ½ tsp

Steps:
• Heat oil and add all the spices and seasonings.
• Add the almonds.
• Toss well. Cool and serve

Nutrient Analysis per Serving:
Calories 280.5kcal Protein 6.9g
Total fat 27.45g Saturated 1.5g
Monounsaturated 15.45g Polyunsaturated 4.95g
Carbohydrates 9g Fibre 0.9g
Cholesterol - Sodium 283.5mg
Calcium 82.5mg Magnesium 120mg
Potassium 24.45mg Vitamin E 9.9mg