Today, RJ Jane’s special guest was Vasundra Aggarwal, a Bangalore based Nutrition & lifestyle consultant who’s been an expert in the field for the last 6 years. In keeping with the New Year spirit, the discussion was largely about how do you stick to your resolutions for a healthy & happy 2015.

First off, Jane asked Vasundra to give us 5 basic tips that, if followed, will lead to a much healthier 2015. Vasundra gave some basic tips such as

1. Do not leave too long a gap between meals. Eat frequent meals in small portions around 8 times a day.
2. Drink a lot of water. Not just when you’re thirsty.
3. Tea or coffee shouldn’t be the first thing you have in the morning. You can first drink some warm water with lemon and honey, and then coffee or tea and breakfast.
4. 30-40 mins of physical activity daily, even if one is not overweight.
5. Limit processed and packaged carbohydrates rather than fats. Include healthy oils like sesame, mustard, bran & olive oil. Include nuts in diet, and avoid packaged & processed food.

Jane and Vasundra were joined by another special guest, Ammachi. When asked what she thinks will lead to a happier and healthier 2015, Ammachi points out that lifestyles keep on changing with the times, and suggests that the secret to health and happiness is to eat at least one meal a day at home with your family. Also resolve to always find something to laugh about at all times, as after all, laughter is the best medicine. People have so many stressors and pressure, they forget to laugh and truly enjoy life. Materialistic values are not as important. Live naturally and healthy. Stick to family recipes rather than fast food.

Vasundra agrees completely. She adds that family recipes are usually healthier, even if they can be rich. She says to limit fried food but not to avoid ghee. In limited amounts ghee has a lot of anti-carcinogenic properties that are beneficial, so we can allow ourselves that small indulgence!

Jane notes that there has been a bug going around and a lot of people are down with the flu. Ammachi gives some Home remedies for the flu such as to Stay hydrated through the day, Gargle with salt & turmeric. drink warm water with lemon, honey and dry ginger, avoid street food and carry your own water bottle as a preventive measure.

Vasundra suggests that to kick start a great lifestyle, start your day with a cup of green tea with lemon, cardamom and nutmeg. it provides antioxidants that will keep you fresh and healthy through the day.

So there we have it. Some simple, and easy to keep, resolutions for 2015! We wish you a Happy and Healthy New Year!