Maximise health by minimising salt, is the call of the modern health conscious generation. Please tell us how we can reduce the consumption of salt in our daily life?

It is true that we find the tastes such as sweet and salty highly attractive. At the same time this is also true that the new era is of mindful eating. Reduced intake of salt, sugar and fat is the need of the hour.

Salt is the main source of sodium in our diet. Reduce salt quantity in cooking. From lesser to least; enjoy salads, cut fruits, cooked vegetables or curd in their natural taste; use of soy sauce, salad dressings, ketchup, pickles and papads moderately; baking soda, baking powder also contain sodium; avoid adding salt when preparing chapatti or rice.

Hypertension or high blood pressure is one of the leading health problems caused by excessive consumption of salt- sodium. Tata salt lite is refined, iodised and potassium enriched, and also proven to be effective in providing 15 per cent lower sodium than normal salt.

Is there a particular time to eat various types of foods?

Yes, all types of foods if eaten at a particular time give us the maximum benefits. For example, food items containing carbohydrates are relaxing, so should be eaten preferably in the evening. To remain alert throughout the day, eat protein-rich food items during lunch. Always try to have an early dinner. The most important thing is to eat little and eat often.

What are the advantages of nut butters over the dairy based butter?

The advantage with nut butters is that they’re packed with protein, and the fat content is usually the good kind. The options for nut butters are many: soy nut butter; almond butter; cashew butter; hazelnut butter; pistachio butter and peanut butter. Each variety offers something a little different, and all are beneficial in their own way.

You’re much better off eating nut butter sandwiches vs something like a prime rib steak. Although nut butters are very nutritious, moderation is crucial. One should consume nut butters as one would regular butter, but though it is a healthy alternative, but is still a fatty food.

What is almond butter, and can it be made at home?

Almond butter is a food paste made from grinding almonds into a nut butter. It is packed with magnesium. Almond butter may be either raw or roasted and “crunchy” or “smooth”. Homemade almond butter is healthy, affordable and even more delicious than store bought.

Almond butter needs just one ingredient – almonds. There’s no added oil required for this recipe, as the almonds will release their natural oils when crushed. Use sparingly – nuts, even in raw form, are only to be had a handful a day. Almond butter is best enjoyed with fruits, as a dessert, or in a smoothie.