The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, JANUARY 31, 2025
“Our hectic lifestyles often lead to poor health choices. Small changes, like swapping processed snacks for natural options such as almonds, can make a big difference,” said Dr. Rohini Patil, a renowned Nutritionist, at an insightful session hosted by the Almond Board of California. Held at a private hotel here in the city, the event, titled “A Handful of Almonds a Day: Natural Approach to Supporting Health in Today’s Fast-Paced Lifestyle”, emphasized the significance of mindful eating and incorporating California almonds into daily diets to support overall health.
From left: VJ Punyashloka, Naina Dash Tiwari and Dr. Rohini Patil
The session featured an esteemed panel, including Dr. Patil and popular Odia actress Naina Dash Tiwari, with moderation by VJ Punyashloka. The discussion underscored the growing prevalence of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, driven largely by poor dietary habits.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), lifestyle diseases claim six million lives annually in India, with chronic illnesses projected to cost the country $6 trillion by 2030. Against this backdrop, the panelists advocated for simple dietary modifications, such as including nutrient-dense foods like almonds, to improve overall well-being.
Dr. Patil elaborated on the numerous health benefits of California almonds, often regarded as the “king of dry fruits.” She highlighted their richness in 15 essential nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, fiber, magnesium, calcium, and zinc. “Almonds help regulate blood sugar, support weight management, boost immunity, and reduce LDL and total cholesterol levels. When juggling multiple responsibilities, these smart food choices become powerful allies in maintaining overall health,” she noted. She also referenced the Dietary Guidelines for Indians by the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), which recommend nuts like almonds as a vital source of plant protein in a balanced diet.
Adding a personal perspective, actress Naina Dash Tiwari shared her approach to maintaining a healthy lifestyle despite her demanding schedule. “Being in the entertainment industry, I often juggle shoots while striving to stay fit. Almonds have been my go-to snack since childhood — they keep me fuller for longer, support weight management, and help me avoid unhealthy snacking. I prefer eating them in their natural form and always carry a box with me wherever I go,” she said.
The session concluded with an emphasis on making nutrition a priority. The panelists highlighted that simple, mindful dietary choices, such as incorporating almonds, can significantly enhance overall well-being, boost resilience, and support a healthier work-life balance in today’s fast-paced world.
