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This helps to neutralize the inflammatory and acidic nature of proteins. Vegetables also contain that essential element for the digestive tract—fibre—which proteins lack. The pairing of proteins and vegetables is a match made in digestive heaven!

sprouts are an excellent source of plant protein; they are low in calories but powerhouses of nutrition. That’s because the sprouting process itself increases the levels of nutrients in the seeds. Enzyme-rich, they help the digestive process in the gut and have lower levels of anti-nutrients (compounds that make food difficult to digest). so, it’s easier to absorb nutrition from sprouted foods. sprouted grains are also alkaline, in contrast to the acidic residue left by the grain or pulse in its original form. They are rightly called ‘live’ or prana foods.

There is an ongoing conversation on plant versus animal protein. The simple facts read as follows:
• both serve equally well, nutritionally.
• Excess consumption of animal protein has a negative effect both on your health and the global ecosystem.
• animal proteins need more time to digest. They also carry the burden of hormonal and pesticide
residue, often more than plant protein.
• If you consume organic, free-range animal protein, do this in moderation.

P2: Protective Foods: yes, these are vegetables, but also fruit, nuts, tea, seeds, spices and the husks in grains. They are loaded with vitamins, minerals, fibre, phytonutrients and enzymes. Green leafy vegetables and red, yellow and purple ones are packed with phytochemicals and antioxidants. The word ‘phyto’ may refer to their plant origin, but it truly is a pun— they fight for you!

These protective foods contain plant nutrients and antioxidant compounds like carotenoids and phenolics that are anti-inflammatory and help protect cells from oxidative damage. devote one meal to the protective plant food group only—it’s transformational for the gut.

Value Vegetables: Vegetables are the kings of the diet kingdom; wisdom lies in giving them the biggest share of the plate. Tip: follow the half-plate rule— whenever you fill your plate, ensure that at least half of it is occupied by vegetables.


To be continued...