With Winter fast approaching and the sniffles looming, we are told to feed the body and the soul with healthy warming foods to remain well.

One of the unique things about the Asian culture is the approach to food and eating for wellness.
In fact, researchers at the International Food Policy Research Institute also believe that the Asian plant-based diet – locally grown staple grains like rice, starchy roots such as potatoes, legumes, beans and other vegetables and fruits, provide protection against many chronic diseases.

Here are a few healthy habits you can practice today:

Ratio Vegetables to Meat 3:1 – The Asian diet includes a healthy balance of meat and vegetables, which is filling while also providing the daily nutrients recommended according to the food pyramid.

Seafood - Research supports the common Asian diet practice of eating fish almost daily. Fish provides high amounts of healthy oils and lean protein.

Herbs and spices – Not only do these give dishes a richer flavour and taste, herbs and spices are also known to relieve common health ailments and promote better general health.

Soups – Most soups cooked at home are made from the bones of chicken, beef or fish together with a combination of different vegetables. The combination of vegetable and broth provides you with a concentrated load of vitamins and minerals, which means even a small portion can fill you up quickly. Not only does soup give comfort during times of illnesses like flu, fever or sore throat, it also strengthens the body from fatigue.

Chopsticks – Delicious and helping you eat smaller portions. Chopsticks are an easy way to avoid the shovel technique of eating, thus reducing overeating or eating too fast.

Rice Combination –Opting to combine the types of rice served will give you much more nutrients in your diet in the long run. Black, brown, red, or even purple rice are nutritionally denser than white or brown - resulting in a less starchy diet therefore less sugar conversion and lower calorie consumption.

Sources www.aia.com