What are some healthy Nasta options for the morning, and how can they be prepared? - #10338
I’ve been trying to switch to healthier breakfast options and am looking for ideas for a healthy Nasta for the morning. What are some quick, nutritious, and tasty options that provide sustained energy for the day? Some of the options I’ve read about include poha, upma, idli, and parathas made with multigrain flour. Are these good choices, and how can they be made healthier, such as by adding more vegetables or using minimal oil? I’m also curious about high-protein breakfast options like sprouts, boiled eggs, or chillas made with besan or moong dal. Do these help in keeping you full for longer, and are they better for people with specific dietary goals, like weight loss or muscle building? Another question I have is about ready-made or semi-cooked options. Are there healthy packaged Nasta items that can be relied upon for convenience without compromising on nutrition? If anyone has a favorite healthy Nasta recipe or snack idea for the morning, I’d love to hear your recommendations. What’s your go-to option, and how has it helped improve your morning routine?
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Doctors’ responses
For a healthy Nasta (snack) in the morning, here are some great options:
Poha, Upma, Idli, Parathas (multigrain): These are excellent choices but can be made healthier by: Adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers. Using minimal oil or opting for healthier options like olive oil or ghee. High-protein options like: Sprouts (moong, lentils) or boiled eggs: Great for keeping you full longer and perfect for weight loss or muscle building. Chillas made from besan or moong dal: Rich in protein and fiber, these are filling and nutritious. Ready-made or semi-cooked options: Look for low-sodium, preservative-free products like sprout mixes or idli batter made from natural ingredients. Ensure they provide real nutritional value without added sugars or unhealthy fats. For a quick, nutritious start, try making vegetable poha or a besan chilla for a filling, healthy breakfast. Let me know what works best for you!
Ah, navigating the world of healthy Nasta, especially in the morning, can be a bit of a mix but let’s get into it. Poha, upma, idli, and multigrain parathas are indeed traditional favs and can be made healthier with a few tweaks. These dishes provide a good source of carbohydrates, essential for energy. Adding veggies, like carrots, peas, or spinach, boosts the fiber content and vitamins. For, poha and upma, using minimal oil, or even switching to a bit of ghee could be beneficial. Ghee in moderation is good for agni!
When it comes to high protein options like sprouts and eggs, you’re talking about sustenance. Sprouts, for example, are easy to prepare – just soak overnight, rinse and let 'em sit till they sprout! You can spice them up with finely chopped onions, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon. Eggs are versatile – you can boil them, scramble them with veggies or even make an omelette. They help keep you full 'cause protein takes longer to digest, making 'em ideal for weight loss or muscle gain. Try a moong dal chilla too, it’s like a savory pancake packed with protein. Blend the dal with some ginger/garlic and let it sit for a bit before cooking on a pan. Go easy on the oil, or use a non-stick pan.
As for ready-made options, they’re convenient but none beats fresh, especially if you’re watching for additives or unhealthy fats. Try to make sure if you choose packaged, it’s loaded with whole grains, low sugar and nothing artificial. Sometimes, it helps to keep a few in the pantry just in case but prioritize fresh.
Personally, I love a spicy idli — made in advance, thaw ’em in the morning and pepper 'em with a bit of mulgapudi or chutney! It’s like a little health kickstart to the day and really sets the tone. So, give it a go, mix and match and see what makes you feel vitalized throughout the day.

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