Merging tastebuds with care

The book unfolds health challenges faced by South Asians

KARACHI: Nutrition and Health for South Asians explores the idea that we are what we eat and think. Written by Netherlands-based nutritionist and clinical dietitian, Dr Suhail Khan, the book unfolds the health challenges faced by South Asians.

This is a valuable reference book that is aimed at a South Asian audience. All of us know good eating habits are the bedrock for a quality life. If neurological research is to be believed, emotions such as love, fear, joy, sadness and even our sense of purpose in life are not just attitudes of the mind. On the contrary, they are produced through biochemical activity within the brain, which is affected by nutrients supplied by the food we eat.

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Dr Khan’s book explores the strong connection between food and our emotions and raises some pertinent points about nutrition.

The book is divided into two sections — nutrition in health and nutrition in disease. The first part provides general information on nutrition and health. It draws attention to specific eating habits and food consumed every day by most South Asians.

However, it the second part of the book that is particularly informative. This section highlights various diseases that result from unhealthy eating habits.

According to the author, South Asians are more susceptible to certain diseases and medical condition owing to genetic and cultural factors. Dr Khan insists as South Asians we share common health traits.

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As a reference book and guide, Nutrition and Health for South Asians should grace the bookshelf of every health-conscious person. It conveys a message to the readers that if we eat well, we can avoid many health concerns.

Overall, the book has been written with specific knowledge of the South Asians diet and eating habits. The writer encourages the people of the subcontinent to take responsibility of their own health.

South Asia is blessed with nutritious vegetables. According to Dr Khan, people should predominantly eat fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts, beans and legumes. However, people have gradually detached themselves from their natural roots. Food that is sold in the market these days includes additives and artificial flavours which are harmful to health.

Every page of this book contains thought-provoking tips on health and interesting facts on various diseases. Eye-catching images serve to complement the author’s words and guarantee a rich and compelling experience for readers.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 2^nd, 2015.

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