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World Diabetes Day 2024
Theme, History and Best Winter Foods For Patients
Rtv News
14 Nov 2024, 13:18
Photo: Collected
Every year on November 14, World Diabetes Day (WDD) is observed to increase awareness of diabetes, a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) organized the event, focusing on diabetes prevention, health risks, and managing and living well with the disease.
Every year, the theme for World Diabetes Day shifts, frequently focusing on important topics like nutrition, physical activity, mental health, or access to healthcare for people with diabetes.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus, also known as diabetes, is a metabolic disease marked by consistently elevated blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a chronic illness in which the body either produces insufficient amounts of insulin or is unable to use the insulin that it produces efficiently.
The pancreas secretes the hormone insulin, which is crucial for controlling blood sugar levels. Blood sugar levels can rise and cause issues with the heart, kidneys, feet, and eyes if insulin is not functioning properly.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Diabetes symptoms can appear suddenly, though in type 2 diabetes, they may develop gradually, sometimes taking years to notice. Typical signs include increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. If untreated, diabetes can damage blood vessels in critical organs like the heart, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. It raises the risk for severe health issues, including heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and in some cases, permanent vision loss due to damaged retinal blood vessels. Diabetes can also lead to nerve damage and poor circulation in the feet, resulting in ulcers and, potentially, amputations.
How to Prevent Diabetes?
Adopting healthy lifestyle changes is the most effective way to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Recommendations for prevention include maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active with at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, following a balanced diet low in added sugars and saturated fats, and avoiding tobacco use. Through proactive lifestyle management, individuals can reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes and its related complications.
World Diabetes Day 2024: Theme
The theme for this year is "Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps," which highlights our commitment to reducing the risk of diabetes and making sure that everyone with the disease has access to equitable, thorough, reasonably priced, and high-quality care.
History of World Diabetes Day
The IDF and WHO established World Diabetes Day in 1991 in response to growing global concerns about diabetes as a major health concern. By adopting Resolution 61/225 in 2006, the UN formally recognized WDD and identified diabetes as a global health concern. The date, November 14, was selected because it is the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin with Charles Best in 1921. This finding transformed diabetes from a deadly illness to one that can now be controlled.
Significance of World Diabetes Day
To increase awareness of the effects of diabetes on people, families, and healthcare systems around the world, World Diabetes Day is essential. It emphasizes how crucial early detection, appropriate medical treatment, and lifestyle modifications are to the management of diabetes.
Additionally, WDD provides a platform for advocates and health organizations to campaign for policy changes that promote affordable and easily accessible diabetes care, especially for disadvantaged groups.
WDD is more important than ever in promoting a healthier lifestyle and teaching people about preventative measures to fight the diabetes epidemic, especially in light of the significant increase in diabetes incidence.
Top 5 best winter foods for diabetic patients
As the winter is near, here are some winter foods that are good for diabetic patients:
Sweet potatoes- For diabetics, sweet potatoes are a wintertime favorite because they contain complex carbohydrates that break down gradually, avoiding sudden blood sugar rises.
Green leafy vegetable- Rich in iron, magnesium, and fiber, this leafy green vegetable helps to improve metabolic health and control blood sugar.
Carrots- Carrots are good for diabetics since they are low in carbohydrates and high in beta-carotene and fiber.
Oats- With a low glycemic index and a high fiber content, particularly beta-glucan, which inhibits the absorption of glucose, oats make a hearty breakfast choice for chilly mornings.
Beetroot- A nutrient-dense winter vegetable that is high in fiber and antioxidants is beetroot. It supports cardiovascular health and lowers insulin resistance, both of which are critical for diabetics.
Diabetes in Bangladesh
World Diabetes Day observes Bangladesh with the globe aimed at building public awareness of the chronic metabolic disease.
The theme of the day is "Diabetes: Our Commitment to Good Health."
In 1991, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) declared November 14 as World Diabetes Day, and the day has been observed all over the world since 2007.
At the request of the Diabetic Association of Bangladesh, the Government of Bangladesh proposed to the United Nations to observe the 'World Diabetes Day' on November 14 which was later unanimously adopted by the UN General Assembly.
On the occasion of the day, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus issued separate messages.
According to the IDF, about 42 crore people in the world are suffering from diabetes as one in every 10 adults worldwide has been suffering from diabetes.
Diabetes patients are increasing at an alarming rate in South Asia and the picture in Bangladesh is dire.
According to the Bangladesh Endocrine Society (BES) currently, about 1.31 crore people are suffering from diabetes in the country making it eighth in the world.
World Diabetes Day reminds us of the growing impact of diabetes on global health and the urgent need for collective action to prevent, diagnose, and manage this chronic condition. In 2024, the theme 'Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps' underscores the critical importance of accessible, high-quality diabetes care, especially for underrepresented communities. The Government of India’s initiatives reflect a proactive, multi-faceted approach to diabetes prevention through enhanced healthcare access, awareness programs, and lifestyle promotion programs. By fostering awareness, providing resources, and encouraging healthy living, these initiatives aim to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and alleviate its long-term complications, contributing to a healthier future for all citizens.
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Why People Advise Against Dipping Metal Spoons in Honey
Have you ever been told not to dip a metal spoon in a jar of honey? It is often one of the common household rules passed down through generations. The belief is that metal could react with honey, turning it toxic, or at the least, ruin its health benefits.
What happens if you leave a metal spoon in honey for a while? Could it be harmful? To clear out the confusion, we reached out to a health expert.
"Using a metal spoon briefly in honey is completely safe," said Isha Lall, nutritionist and ayurvedic wellness coach. She said that while honey is slightly acidic and it is true that acids can react with metals, a quick dip of a stainless steel spoon won’t cause any negative reactions.
What is the basis of this myth?
Years ago, spoons were made of reactive metals like copper or iron, and these could corrode over time when left in honey. However, most modern stainless steel spoons are resistant to corrosion. According to Lall, even if left in honey for weeks in humid conditions, these spoons may not see any major corrosion and are unlikely to affect the honey in any harmful way.
What can you use instead?
Lall recommends wooden spoons as a great alternative, "They also bring that old-school, natural vibe to your kitchen, like you’re harvesting honey from your backyard beehive," she said.
In Ayurveda, honey is revered as a potent “Yogavahi,” which enhances the medicinal properties of anything it’s combined with. However, Ayurveda warns against heating honey, as it changes its composition and produces toxins. As for metal spoons, stainless steel is safe—just avoid leaving utensils in honey for long.
Nikita Porwal from Madhya Pradesh Crowned Femina Miss India 2024
The 60th edition of the Femina Miss India pageant took place in Mumbai yesterday, with Nikita Porwal from Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh being crowned as the Femina Miss India 2024. The crowning glory was bestowed upon her by Nandini Gupta, who is the Femina Miss India 2023 while Bad Newz actress Neha Dhupia presented Nikita with her winning sash.
The beauty queen left the audience spellbound with her grace on the big night while dazzling with her look. Nikita Porwal's Portia and Scarlett ensemble for the beauty pageant-winning night was a nude-toned champagne gown with a sleeveless detail and a thigh-high slit to show off her toned legs. The entire V-neck gown was encrusted with silver Swarovski crystals that made Nikita shine from miles away. The upper bodice of the ensemble had a dense setting of the crystals and knee-down, the crystals were placed in a waterfall design.
On the accessories front, Nikita wore a pair of silver open-toe heels that matched her OOTD to perfection and a pair of diamond drop earrings to add a further element of sparkle.
As for her hair and makeup of the day, Nikita Porwal wore her brunette tresses in an open look over her shoulders with center-parted waves. Her makeup picks of the day included beaming foundation and highlighter, bushy brows, sparkle on her eyelids and the inner corners of her eyes, a hint of pink blush on her cheeks, and a glossy lip color to add the perfect finishing touch to the look.
The newest Femina Miss India 2024 Nikita Porwal won hearts with her winning fashion choice on the big night.
5 Foods That Improve Mental Focus
We need a nutrient-rich diet to keep the brain healthy. Foods that contain nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, iron, selenium, and choline improve brain functioning. Consuming them can help in improving brain function and improve mental focus.
Here are 5 foods that can improve brain health to boost mental focus:
Blueberries
Rich in flavonoids, blueberries are one of the best foods for improving brain health. They help in slowing down age-related mental decline and enhance cognitive function.
Walnuts
Walnuts are rich in various essential nutrients required for a healthy brain including omega-3 fatty acids, folate, and vitamin E. They improve brain function and reduce the risk of dementia.
Dark Chocolate
Considered a brain food, dark chocolate is loaded with flavonoids and polyphenols. It helps in improving cognitive function and memory, which will improve mental focus.
Coffee
When consumed in moderation, drinking coffee can help increase alertness and improve memory. However, consuming too much coffee can lead to negative effects on the health.
Avocado
Avocados have a high content of essential nutrients including fiber, monounsaturated fats, potassium, folate, vitamin E, and vitamin K. They can help in improving memory and cognitive skills.
10 Best Foods To Look & Feel Younger
Aging is a natural process and is something we shouldn't fear, despite what marketing companies have been telling us forever. But as we age, it's understandable that we'd want to find healthy ways to look and feel our best with every passing year so we can have the energy and confidence to enjoy our daily lives. Things like exercising, drinking plenty of water, and eating a nutritious, balanced diet are all ways we can help ourselves look and feel younger as we get older.
When it comes to diet, food can impact the way you feel on the inside and look on the outside. For instance, research proves that nutrition can play an important role in heart and brain health, and your risk of age-related disease as you get older. Research also shows that your diet not only has the power to repair skin damage, but it can cause damage to the skin as you age as well. So what are some of the specific foods that can impact the way you age?
Read on to learn about 10 foods you can add to your diet to help you look and feel your best as you age. And for more healthy eating tips, make sure to check out The 10 Best Eating Habits to Fight Inflammation, Say Dietitians.
Berries
raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries
An important key to healthy aging is eating foods that are rich in antioxidants. This is because your body goes through a process called oxidation, which creates molecules known as "free radicals" that can cause damage to your cells and contribute to a greater risk of chronic disease. Antioxidants can directly help fight these damage-causing free radicals in your body.
When it comes to antioxidant-rich food, berries are toward the top. "Berries are rich in antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and vitamin C, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body," says Mary Sabat MS, RDN, LD. Berries also have anti-aging properties.
Oxidative stress damage caused by free radicals can also impact your skin health, so Sabat says that eating antioxidant-rich foods like berries "helps protect your skin from premature aging and improve its overall health."
Lisa Young, PhD, RDN adds "Blueberries specifically are packed with the antioxidant anthocyanin, which helps to combat oxidative stress and inflammation, and these compounds may contribute to improved skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and promoting a youthful complexion."
Another amazing benefit of eating berries as you age is that they "support cognitive function and may reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline," says Sabat. For instance, one study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that eating more strawberries and blueberries was linked to a slower rate of cognitive decline in participants over 70 years old.
Fatty Fish
raw salmon
There's more than one reason to eat fatty fish as you get older. For starters, fatty fish is rich in healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids. According to Sabat, "Omega-3s can help maintain heart and brain health, as well as reduce the risk of age-related diseases."
In addition to helping your heart and brain feel better as you age, omega-3-rich foods like fatty fish can also help you maintain more youthful skin.
For instance, "Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA, and these essential fats support skin health by maintaining cell membranes and reducing inflammation," says Young. And Sabat adds "These healthy fats can also promote skin elasticity and hydration, giving you a youthful and glowing complexion."
Nuts and Seeds
mixed nuts
You've learned about antioxidants found in berries and healthy fats found in certain fish, but snacking on nuts and seeds can give you the best of both worlds by providing healthy fats and antioxidants.
"The antioxidants found in nuts and seeds combat free radicals, preventing skin aging and reducing the risk of chronic diseases associated with aging," says Sabat.
Specifically, Young notes that "Almonds are a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative damage, and can help maintain skin elasticity and hydration, potentially reducing the signs of aging." She adds, "Including nuts like almonds in your diet may support a healthy, youthful glow."
Nuts—especially walnuts—also contain omega-3 fatty acids, and seeds like flaxseeds are some of the richest sources of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming these healthy fats can contribute to a slower rate of aging—both internally and externally.
Leafy greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are "nutrient powerhouses," according to Sabat, "offering vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like iron and calcium."
For healthier aging, "These nutrients can promote skin health, aid in collagen production, and protect against skin damage caused by UV radiation," Sabat adds.
Beyond just skin health, vitamin K has also been linked to reducing the risk of age-related diseases, and vitamin C has been found to help slow age-related cognitive decline.
Avocado
halved avocados with pit
We mentioned earlier that vitamin E—a powerful antioxidant—is linked to better skin health and can be found in nuts like almonds, but this vitamin can also be found in your bowl of guacamole.
Avocados are rich in vitamin E, and because of this they can help "protect the skin from UV damage and maintain its youthful appearance," says Sabat.
Not only are they rich in vitamin E, but avocados are rich in healthy fats, which can "hydrate and nourish the skin," Sabat adds.
Additionally, says Sabat, avocados can help support a healthy heart as you age "by reducing bad cholesterol levels."
Sweet Potatoes
roasted sweet potatoes
Fruits and vegetables contain plant compounds that give them their bright coloring. For example, sweet potatoes contain a compound called beta-carotene, which is responsible for its vibrant orange hue. Aside from bringing color to this vegetable, this compound—among other plant compounds—can provide a ton of health benefits, too.
According to Sabat, "Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A and has been linked to promoting skin health and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Beyond that, research has also found that beta-carotene may be able to help in the prevention of various chronic diseases.
Although it's found in smaller amounts, sweet potatoes also contain vitamins C and E, which we know now can help fight free radicals and support health.
Tomatoes
Speaking of those delightfully powerful plant compounds, tomatoes are rich in a certain compound called lycopene, which gives them their beautiful red color. Lycopene has antioxidant properties and is "known to protect the skin from sun damage and reduce the signs of aging," says Sabat, which means tomatoes may play a role in helping you look and feel younger as you age.
Lycopene's benefits extend beyond just skin health, though. A report published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences says that a diet rich in lycopene may be able to help reduce cardiovascular disease risk and improve the health of your blood vessels, and because of this, Mary says "Consuming tomatoes can support heart health, contributing to a youthful and vibrant life."
Dark Chocolate
dark chocolate pieces in a bowl
Probably the most exciting food on our list, dark chocolate is rich in naturally occurring compounds called flavonoids, which can help with aging in numerous ways.
"Flavonoids can enhance blood flow and protect the skin from UV damage," says Sabat, and research also shows that dietary flavonoids may help with blood pressure, artery health, and vascular-related issues such as cardiovascular disease and vascular dementia.
As you can see, dark chocolate can help promote healthy aging and youthfulness "both inside and out," says Sabat. Just make sure to eat in moderation, as many varieties come with a lot of added sugar, which can lead to more inflammation and increase your risk for certain diseases if consumed in large quantities regularly.
Yogurt
bowl of Greek yogurt with berries
Research continues to show that a healthy gut contributes to healthy aging and healthier skin. Thankfully, there are plenty of delicious foods to add to your diet that can help you have a more diverse, flourishing gut microbiome.
One of these foods is yogurt, which Sabat says "is a probiotic-rich food that supports gut health and aids in nutrient absorption."
Not only that, but yogurt "provides essential protein for maintaining muscle and skin health, while also contributing to strong bones through its calcium and vitamin D content," says Sabat. However, just make sure you're buying yogurt that is fortified with vitamin D to get that specific vitamin.
The 15 Healthiest Yogurts on Grocery Store Shelves
Green Tea
Although it's a drink and not a food, we had to include green tea on our list because of its powerful anti-aging abilities.
"Green tea contains polyphenols—notably epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)—with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties," says Sabat. "These compounds help improve skin elasticity and protect against the harmful effects of UV radiation, reducing the signs of skin aging."
Not only can green tea help with a more youthful appearance, but research shows that its main polyphenol—EGCG—is connected to slower aging and even extending your lifespan.
9 Best Supplements to Slow Signs of Aging After 40
Turning 40 is a rite of passage. And if you have reached this milestone, you are likely already appreciating a level of confidence that your 20-year-old self never dreamed of and a unique appreciation for life that only comes with age. But, with all of the positives that come with turning 40, there are some clear downsides to living for four decades, one being that your body can start showing signs of aging. From those creaks and cracks, you may experience when you get up from a sitting position to the reflection in the mirror that doesn't quite look like what it used to, getting older does come with some unique effects. Thankfully, dietitians say there are some helpful supplements to slow aging.
While taking certain supplements won't be a magic bullet to slow signs of aging, certain choices may help, especially if you combine taking these pills with following a balanced and nutrient-dense diet, and participate in physical activity regularly. If you have reached the big 4-0 and are motivated to explore adding some of these supplements to slow aging, keep reading to find 9 of them that are worth considering.
Turmeric
turmeric supplements
Turmeric is a spice that has been used in many dishes for thousands of years, and data shows that taking it consistently may alleviate aging symptoms and postpone the progression of age-related diseases. Specifically, turmeric has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects that can help enforce these anti-aging benefits.
A turmeric supplement that also contains BioPerine—a piperine extract that can help enhance the absorption of the active compound in turmeric.
Ceratiq
plant oil extract, supplement to slow aging
Ceratiq is a plant oil extract that may help promote smooth skin and support the skin's hydration status. Since aging is associated with loss of skin moisture, finding ways to combat this effect may offer some benefit.
Pomegranate
pomegranate extract
If you can't make a habit of drinking 100% pomegranate juice, pomegranate supplements may be a fantastic addition to your diet to fuel yourself with plant compounds that may reduce UVB-induced skin damage. Skin damage caused by the sun's rays can make a person's appearance seem to look older, thanks to the discoloration and wrinkles that can occur as a result. One study showed that taking a pomegranate extract supplement for 4 weeks resulted in a reduction in wrinkle severity.
DHA
fish oil supplements to slow aging
One tell-tale sign of aging is when your memory starts to decline. A reduced level of DHA is associated with cognitive decline during aging. Some data suggest that this nutrient may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease, and may enhance memory.
Vitamin D
vitamin d supplements
Vitamin D is an important nutrient to help combat signs of aging for many reasons. When it comes to skin health, this nutrient may help reduce skin DNA damage and inflammation. This "sunshine vitamin" can also play an important role in bone health, a key factor to consider when trying to slow signs of aging, as older people are more likely to have weaker bones and suffer from a fracture vs. younger people.
Now Foods Vitamin D3 contains quality ingredients and can easily be included in many diets.
Vitamin C
vitamin c tablets
If your diet is lacking vitamin C, including it in supplement form may offer some benefit. This nutrient is involved in skin collagen synthesis and the elimination of compounds that may cause skin damage. Maintaining healthy vitamin C levels can have a protective effect against age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease too.
Collagen
collagen-supplement to slow aging
Yes, collagen is a go-to for people who are aging, as our body's natural ability to produce collagen decreases as we age. But collagen isn't just a supplement that may help our skin stay supple and healthy. This supplement may also help support bone health, a factor that people need to focus on as they age, as half of women over age 50 and 25% of men over 50 will have an age-related bone fracture sometime in their lifetime.
Resveratrol
red grapes
Resveratrol—a natural substance found in many foods, including the skin of certain grapes—has been linked to lessening the effects of several age-related conditions, including supporting the body's normal inflammatory response and activating a special class of protein enzymes called sirtuins, which help manage cellular aging, inflammatory response, and glucose metabolism.
CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is, as the name implies, a coenzyme. It has been shown to promote healthy aging by enhancing mitochondrial function, which in turn, may support cardiovascular and skin health, making this one of the best supplements to slow aging.
World Pasta Day: The History of Italy's Long Love Affair with Pasta
On October 25th, people celebrate World Pasta Day to recognize the importance of this comfort food across the globe. Today there are numerous options available in every region and pasta has become a go-to meal. However one cannot forget the contribution of Italians in making it a global food. Pasta is synonymous with the cuisine of Italy and its deep-rooted passion for this dish spans centuries, predating even the Middle Ages. But how exactly did this love affair begin, and what is the real story behind the birth of pasta in Italy?
A Controversial Beginning
The history of pasta is riddled with mystery and debate. A popular myth suggests that Marco Polo introduced pasta to Italy in the 13th century after his travels to China. However, historians have long debunked this, as pasta was already present in Italy centuries before Polo’s time. Although the exact origin of pasta remains a topic of contention, there are a few theories.
Some suggest that the Etruscans, an ancient civilization predating the Romans in central Italy, might have been the first to make pasta. Evidence from an Etruscan tomb suggests they had tools resembling those used for pasta-making. Yet, this theory is tenuous. A more widely accepted explanation points to Arab traders who introduced pasta to Sicily in the 8th and 9th centuries. They brought with them dried noodles made from durum wheat, ideal for long journeys and perfect for Sicily's climate. Today, Italy remains one of the largest producers of durum wheat, a key ingredient in pasta production.
Despite uncertainty about its origins, one thing is clear: pasta was already being enjoyed in Italy during the Medieval period. References to pasta appear in literature and art, such as Giovanni Boccaccio's 14th-century The Decameron, which humorously describes pasta chefs preparing mountains of ravioli and macaroni. From this point onward, pasta became an integral part of Italian cuisine, spreading throughout the country and evolving into the beloved dish it is today.
Pasta’s Evolution Across Italy
As pasta gained popularity, it transcended class divisions. It became a staple for both the rich and the poor, though prepared differently depending on wealth. For the lower classes, pasta was a cheap and filling source of energy, while the wealthy would enhance their pasta dishes with luxurious ingredients like pork belly, cow udders, and spices such as cinnamon and raisins. Even today, some Sicilian pasta dishes incorporate these traditional Middle Eastern flavors, harkening back to the influence of Arab traders.
By the 17th century, pasta had taken on such importance in Naples that Neapolitans were nicknamed "macaroni eaters." At the time, pasta was being paired with a wide range of ingredients, but it was still a labor-intensive process to make. The word “macaroni” itself comes from a Sicilian term referring to the vigorous kneading of pasta dough, a testament to the effort involved.
Tomatoes And Pasta Became Best Friends
A pivotal moment in pasta history came with the introduction of tomatoes to Europe. Although tomatoes were brought to Europe in the 16th century, they were initially thought to be poisonous and avoided in cooking. It wasn't until the 19th century that the tomato's role in Italian cuisine, particularly in pasta, became solidified. The first recorded instance of tomato sauce being used with pasta appeared in a cookbook by Francesco Leonardi in 1790. From this point onward, the marriage of pasta and tomatoes became an inseparable part of Italian culinary tradition.
The Renaissance Of Pasta
The Italian Renaissance in the 14th to 17th centuries was a time not only of artistic and intellectual advancement but also of culinary innovation. During this period, pasta dishes became more elaborate and refined. Italian chefs started experimenting with sauces, shapes, and new cooking techniques. The introduction of the tomato sauce, along with new pasta shapes like conchiglie (shells) and farfalle (bow ties), elevated pasta from a simple, rustic dish to a culinary art form. At the same time, regional variations in pasta also began to emerge. For example, Naples became famous for spaghetti, while Bologna and Emilia-Romagna developed pasta filled with meat and cheese, such as tortellini.
Pasta’s Journey Beyond Italy
As Italian immigrants traveled the world, they carried their culinary traditions with them, spreading their love for pasta across continents. In many countries, Italian pasta was adapted to local flavors and ingredients, leading to the creation of new dishes that incorporated pasta into diverse cuisines. This exchange enriched Italian cuisine while also making pasta a global phenomenon.
Today, pasta is a symbol of Italian heritage and the country boasts over 300 different types of pasta shapes. From dried pasta (pasta secca) to fresh pasta (pasta fresca), they take great pride in their pasta-making techniques, often drying pasta for longer periods and using ridged molds to maximize sauce absorption. Pasta-making has also seen significant innovation, with modern chefs pushing the boundaries by experimenting with new shapes, ingredients, and flavors. Despite these changes, one thing remains constant: pasta’s deep connection to Italy’s culinary history.
Reasons Why Not to Add Bananas to Shakes and Smoothies
When it comes to smoothies and shakes, banana is one of the most popular fruits, as it provides a creamy texture and natural sweetness.
Despite such popularity, here are some strong reasons you may want to reconsider adding them to your shake or smoothie. While bananas are one of those fine sources of nutrients, including potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, they're not always the best option, given your dietary goals, preferences, or digestive health.
Here are some reasons you might want to reconsider adding bananas to your shakes and smoothies.
Banana Nutrition
Bananas are a rich source of essential nutrients, providing a good amount of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. They are high in dietary fiber, which supports digestion, and contains natural sugars that provide a quick energy boost. Bananas are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy snack option while offering antioxidants that promote overall well-being.
High in sugar and carbohydrates
Bananas are naturally high in sugar and carbohydrates, probably not good enough for a low-sugar or low-carb diet. A medium-sized banana contains around 14 grams of sugar and 27 grams of carbohydrates. Although natural sugars are better than refined ones, they will certainly cause increased blood sugar, especially in people with highly sensitive insulin or in diabetics. If you are on a diet controlling your sugars or following a low-carb diet, you can use low-sugar fruits like berries or more leafy greens in your shakes and smoothies.
Calorie dense
Although bananas are nutritious, they contain relatively high-calorie density compared to most other fruits. A medium banana contains about 105 calories; thus, it could add up depending on how big your shake or smoothie is. If you're looking to cut down on calorie intake or work on your weight management, bananas probably aren't the go-to fruit for smoothies. Instead, using a lower-calorie fruit or vegetable, such as a cucumber, spinach, or strawberry, can help make a drink less calorie-rich without sacrificing its nutritional or flavor integrity.
May cause digestion issues
Bananas, especially the unripened bananas, have resistant starch. Thus, it will cause some difficulty in digestion in the human body. For those who have a weakened digestive system or in the presence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), bananas may cause them to bloat, pump gas, or feel unrest in their digestive tract. Bananas also contain a natural sugar called fructose that may cause problems in people who have intolerance. If you have a sensitive stomach or experience frequent digestive problems, try not to use bananas in your shakes and smoothies and opt for other, easier-to-digest fruits like papaya, watermelon, or cantaloupe.
Overpowers other flavors
Bananas have a very distinctive and strong taste that would easily overpower the flavor of many other ingredients within shakes and smoothies. If you're trying to balance flavors and want to let other fruits or vegetables shine, bananas can overpower the flavor, overriding the nuances of spinach, ginger, or citrus fruits. Some of the other alternatives are avocado or unsweetened almond milk for making a creamy shake.
Limited nutrient diversity
Bananas are relatively nutrient-dense in some areas, like potassium, but they do not provide the kind of broad nutrient diversity that many other fruits and vegetables do. You might still miss out on a significant amount of the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can be found in a wide variety of produce if you add a banana to your smoothie. For example, trading a banana for a handful of spinach or kale provides an enormous dose of vitamins A, C, and K, in addition to fiber and calcium. In a pinch, someone may have to rely on bananas to add flavor and texture to their shakes and smoothies, which may be fine if they are still concerned with getting the most out of nutrition from those. Otherwise, focusing on a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables may work better for them.
Source: TOI
