In a world saturated with fad diets and quick-fix solutions, Rujuta Diwekar, a leading Indian nutritionist, continues to champion a grounded, practical approach to health and wellness. Her philosophy, deeply rooted in common sense and traditional wisdom, resonates with those seeking sustainable and joyful ways to nourish their bodies. Diwekar's recent appearances on NDTV and the release of her latest book, "The Commonsense Diet," further solidify her position as a voice of reason in the often-confusing landscape of nutrition.
Diwekar's "Commonsense Diet" is a direct response to the restrictive and often unsustainable diet trends that dominate the wellness industry. She addresses the frustration many feel with gut cleanses, keto diets, intermittent fasting, and the relentless pursuit of high-protein, low-carb eating patterns. Her core message is refreshingly simple: prioritize home-cooked food ("ghar ka khaana") and embrace a way of eating that can be maintained for life. This approach emphasizes sustainability and long-term well-being over fleeting results.
Her approach defies the pervasive "diet culture" that often equates health with appearance. She advocates for a kinder, gentler lifestyle where food is enjoyed without guilt or anxiety. She emphasizes that health is not solely about weight loss, six-pack abs, or fitting into skinny jeans. Instead, it's about living a full and vibrant life, feeling energetic, and fostering a positive relationship with food.
Diwekar stresses the importance of eating local, seasonal, and traditional foods. She believes that diets should be tailored to individual climates and cultures, a principle often overlooked by health professionals. She cautions against blindly following trends or adopting diets that require expensive or hard-to-find ingredients. Instead, she encourages people to reconnect with their culinary heritage and appreciate the nutritional value of foods that have been consumed for generations. This includes embracing staples like rice, ghee, dals, and legumes, while being mindful of portion sizes and individual needs. She also debunks the myth of protein deficiency, arguing that most people, except those below the poverty line with limited access to nutritious food, get enough protein through a balanced diet that includes dals, legumes, nuts, dairy, and, for non-vegetarians, fish, meat, and eggs.
Beyond food choices, Diwekar underscores the significance of holistic lifestyle practices. She consistently advises incorporating regular exercise, particularly strength training, into one's routine. She stresses that gaining lean body weight is crucial for overall health and weight management, especially as one ages. She also suggests incorporating smaller tasks like taking the stairs, parking the car as far as possible, standing up for 3 minutes for every 30 minutes of sitting, and taking 100 easy steps after dinner. Furthermore, she emphasizes the importance of adequate sleep, managing stress, and nurturing social connections. She encourages people to prioritize activities that bring them joy and fulfillment, recognizing that mental and emotional well-being are integral to physical health.
Rujuta Diwekar's message is a welcome antidote to the noise and confusion surrounding nutrition. Her emphasis on common sense, sustainability, and the joy of eating provides a framework for achieving lasting health and well-being. By encouraging individuals to embrace their culinary heritage and prioritize home-cooked meals, she empowers them to make informed choices and cultivate a positive relationship with food. Her work continues to inspire countless individuals to adopt a more balanced and sustainable approach to health, one that nourishes both the body and the mind.
