9 do’s and don’ts of healthy cooking that every home chef should know

When you cook at home you're not just filling your stomach, you're also feeding your body. Cooking in a healthy way makes sure that your meals taste good and are good for your health. But not all ways of cooking are equally good for you. According to Dr. P Venkata Krishnan, Sr. Consultant, Internal Medicine, Artemis Hospitals, to make meals healthier every home chef should know these important do's and don'ts.

Fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins keep more nutrients than foods that have been processed or packaged. For the best taste and nutrition, pick fruits and vegetables that are in season.

Choose healthy cooking methods like steaming, grilling and baking with little oil to keep nutrients and cut down on extra fat. Steaming vegetables, for instance, keeps their vitamins intact and grilling chicken adds flavor without adding calories.

A plate with a lot of colors is usually a healthy plate. To make sure your meals have a lot of different nutrients, add a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins.

Nuts, seeds, olive oil, and avocados are all good sources of fats that are good for your heart and brain. When you can use these healthier options instead of butter.

Ensure you measure out the oils, salt and sugar that you are using to avoid excessively using those ingredients. You can give your food flavor without adding calories or sodium using herbs and spices and citrus.

Deep frying adds calories and unhealthy fats that can raise cholesterol levels and hurt your heart health. You shouldn't fry food every day; only on special occasions.

Cooking them too long can kill important vitamins and minerals. To keep vegetables crunchy and full of nutrients and cook them lightly.

Packaged sauces, ready-to-eat meals, and processed meats often have a lot of sugar, salt, and preservatives in them. If you make your own food, you can keep an eye on these hidden ingredients.

You can't make healthy food if you don't take care of it. To stay healthy, wash fruits and vegetables well, store foods that go bad properly and cook proteins to safe temperatures.
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