Healthy Plates, Happier Lives – Celebrate Poshan Maah (National Nutrition Month)

Dear Readers,

September is observed as National Nutrition Month, also known as Poshan Maah, across India. The initiative serves as a reminder that what we put on our plate directly shapes our health, energy levels, and quality of life. In today’s fast-paced routines, where packaged or processed foods often replace wholesome meals, nutrition awareness has become more important than ever.

Welcome to another edition of Discover Health by Yashoda, where you will delve into practical tips, expert insights, and easy-to-follow strategies to make healthy eating a sustainable and enjoyable part of your daily life.

Why Healthy Eating Should Be a Priority

Food is not just fuel—it is information for the body. The nutrients in our meals influence growth, immunity, mood, and even the rate at which we age. Poor dietary habits are linked to lifestyle conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, eating wisely can reduce risks, boost mental clarity, and improve overall well-being.

What Makes a Balanced Meal?

A well-balanced plate is colorful and diverse, providing the body with all the essential nutrients it needs. The key components include:

• Whole grains and millets – Supply long-lasting energy and fiber.
• Protein sources – Eggs, dairy, pulses, fish, lean meats, or plant proteins help repair tissues and build strength.
• Healthy fats – Nuts, seeds, coconut, and oils like olive or mustard aid in brain function and hormone balance.
• Vegetables and fruits – Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immunity.
• Adequate fluids – Water, buttermilk, or lemon water keep the body hydrated and active.

Everyday Tips for Smarter Nutrition

• Choose fresh, local produce instead of exotic or packaged foods.
• Control portion size—eat until satisfied, not stuffed.
• Reduce your intake of junk foods, such as fried snacks, sodas, and packaged foods.
• Snack mindfully—opt for fruit, sprouts, or roasted chana instead of chips.
• Hydrate regularly—don’t wait for thirst to remind you.
• Eat slowly—enjoy the taste and give your body time to signal when you're full.

Nutrition Across Age Groups

• For children: A diet rich in protein, calcium, and iron supports growth and learning.
• For working adults: Balanced meals can help prevent fatigue, stress, and weight gain.
• For expectant mothers: Nutrient-rich foods, especially those rich in folate and protein, are vital for both the mother and the baby.
• For older adults: Calcium, vitamin D, and high-fiber foods help maintain strong bones and smooth digestion.

Yashoda Hospitals’ Approach to Nutrition

At Yashoda Hospitals, nutrition is recognized as a crucial factor in both prevention and recovery. Our multidisciplinary team of dieticians and specialists works closely with patients to provide personalized nutrition care throughout their treatment journey.

Our experts offer customized support to patients managing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and digestive issues by developing tailored nutrition plans and providing ongoing guidance during care.

Our approach is aligned with the ICMR 2024 Guidelines on Dietary Intake, Care, Monitoring, and Recommendations, ensuring evidence-based practices for better health outcomes:

• Encouraging fresh and minimally processed foods over ultra-processed options.
• Monitoring dietary intake to align with each patient’s health condition and goals.
• Reducing intake of high-fat, high-salt, and high-sugar foods to prevent lifestyle-related diseases.
• Promoting balanced meals that include whole grains, pulses, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and adequate hydration.

We also organize community programs during National Nutrition Month (Poshan Maah), aiming to increase public awareness and empower individuals with practical strategies for healthier living. The hospital integrates modern facilities and coordinated care, focusing on nutrition, to help each patient and community members achieve sustainable health goals through expert dietary guidance and lifestyle support.

Message from Vasudha Mathur, Chief Dietician, Yashoda Hospitals, Hitec City:

🌟 A Simple Pledge for National Nutrition Month (Poshan Maah)

Healthy living does not require drastic measures. Small steps make a big difference. This Month, let us all pledge to:

• Add at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
• Swap refined foods with whole grains, such as ragi, jowar, and brown rice.
• Cook more meals at home, focusing on balance and variety to promote a healthier lifestyle.
• Teach children the value of healthy eating through practice, not just advice.

✨ Final Thought

Nutrition is not a quick fix—it is a lifelong habit that shapes our present and future. By making conscious food choices today, we lay the ground for a healthier tomorrow for ourselves and the next generation.

This National Nutrition Month (Poshan Maah), take charge by reviewing your meals, making one new healthy swap, and encouraging someone else to join you. Your choices matter—commit today to building a healthier, more energized future for yourself and your loved ones. Choose wisely, live fully.

📞 Call us at: +91-8929967127 🔗 Visit: https://www.yashodahospitals.com/online-doctor-consultation/product-category/dietician/ 

If this article inspired you, share it with others. Awareness about healthy eating can help more families make mindful nutrition choices and build lifelong wellness habits. Because everyone deserves not just food, but the nourishment to live fully, energetically, and healthily every single day.