MBBS
Celebrity nutrition advisor Dr. Shikha Sharma has founded Dr. Shikha’s Nutrihealth in 1998. Dr. Shikha has done her MBBS from Maulana Azad Medical College and holds 21 years of experience in the field of health and nutrition. Her organization, Dr. Shikha's NutriHealth, has over 50 Ayurveda experts and nutritionists who provide consultation services to the clients.The Nutrihealth expert team handles weight loss/weight gain, PCOS, thyroid, diabetes, cholesterol, post-pregnancy weight loss and other lifestyle disorders with personalized diet advisory. The nutrition advisory and diet plans are based on individual Prakriti (body constitution as per Ayurveda), blood group, medical condition, food preferences, and lifestyle.
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Would-be-mothers are often advised against consuming nuts if they have a family history of nut allergies. However, on the contrary, present research reports consuming nuts such as peanuts, walnuts, and almonds during pregnancy to be beneficial for the growth and development of the baby. In addition, a study shows eating tree nuts regularly can reduce…
Pasta is an all-time favorite among kids. In this post, we present you with some delicious pasta recipes for kids. Pasta is basically made from durum wheat flour mixed with water and eggs to make a firm dough. It is known to be a rich source of carbohydrates and a few essential nutrients, all while…
Mayonnaise or mayo is a creamy sauce often used in sandwiches or burgers as a spread, and as salad dressing. It is prepared by mixing egg yolks with an acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice. You might relish it before pregnancy, but eating mayonnaise when pregnant warrants caution. The eggs used in mayo preparation…
Iron - deficiency anemia in toddlers is a common health issue. If a child has chronic iron deficiency, it can affect their growth and also cause them to experience extreme fatigue and weakness. Since anemia can affect a child’s mental health and cause long-term health problems, timely detection and correction of iron deficiency are suggested.…
Consuming beetroot during pregnancy can satiate your craving, preventing the intake of high-calorie foods, such as sweets and cakes. Controlling sweet cravings in pregnancy can get tricky. However, you can manage your sweet tooth effectively by eating fruits and veggies in various forms. You may try beetroots, for instance. Beetroots can offer dietary fiberiXEdible parts…
Bananas are rich in potassium, calcium, and several other essential nutrients. Research regarding the choice of fruits shows that bananas during pregnancy are a popular choice (95.4%), followed by oranges (88.8%), apples (88.3%), and other fruits (40.3%) (1). Bananas have innumerable benefits for both the mother and the fetusiXAn unborn offspring growing and developing within…
Fennel seeds, commonly known as Saunf in Hindi, are mildly sweet and aromatic herbs used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Several women are unsure of the safety of using fennel seeds during pregnancy. These seeds are commonly used in Indian and Middle-eastern recipes with common use in ayurvedic medicine. They can also be used as…
Everyone loves those delicious and juicy red fruits. Their tantalizingiXEnticing or tempting and tangy taste makes them irresistible, and they are especially tempting when you experience cravings during pregnancy. If you want to consume cherries during pregnancy but are unsure about their safety, read on as we tell you the benefits and side effects of…
Oats are a nutritious cereal grain rich in soluble fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicalsiXBioactive compounds found in plant-based foods that act as antioxidants and have antimicrobial effects. that can boost health over time. Hence, eating whole-grain foods, such as oats during pregnancy seems a healthy choice. Most people eat oats to lose weight and maintain…
Toddlers are always game for some delicious and lip-smacking snacks. This post on snacks for toddlers will help you with some recipes that you can try making for them. During the toddler stage, the growth rate is rapid and this, in turn, makes them frequently hungry. But you cannot always let them munch on those…
Spinach is a nutrient-dense food source rich in multiple minerals, including calcium and potassium. It is also a good source of vitamin C, enabling iron absorption in the body. Thus, since the health benefits of spinach for babies are numerous, it should be an essential part of their diet. Read this post to learn when…
Potato is a nutritious vegetable rich in vital nutrients like vitamin C and potassium. Its use is prevalent in making several sweet and savory dishes that people across ages can relish. In this post, we bring you some interesting potato recipes for kids that are simple yet delicious. You can customize these recipes by tweaking…
Having honey while pregnant is supposed to be beneficial for your health. Honey is known to contain small amounts of essential prenatal vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can be beneficial for both maternal health and fetal development. Be it a cough, cold, or sore throat, honey is a go-to. But is too much honey bad?…
Fruits are an essential part of a balanced diet. However, since pregnant women may be warned against consuming certain fruits, we talk about some of the best fruits to eat during pregnancy. According to the Journal of Nutrition and Dietetics, fresh fruits for the sustenance of a healthy pregnancy are consumed by only half of…
Drinking tea during pregnancy is safe, and it is not harmful to the baby. Most people love to sip a cup of tea every day in the morning or evening, and there is no risk of drinking a cup of tea every day. Some women may prefer to have a cup of tea when they…
Potatoes are versatile and can be enjoyed as mashed, baked, or fried. However, you may be concerned about eating potatoes during pregnancy. Potatoes are considered to be rich in carbohydrates, which puts us at an increased risk of gestational diabetesiXA condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels due to hormonal and physical changes in pregnancy…
Cabbage is a nutritious vegetable rich in potassium, phosphorus, and vitamin C. It has a sweet-bitter taste and crunchy texture that several people like. However, since it is known to cause gastric discomfort, you may want to know if eating cabbage during pregnancy is a safe choice. Cabbage is also considered a goitrogenic food that…
How much weight a teen gains is quite variable. Some gain weight after eating just a few calories, while others stay lean and skinny regardless of how much they eat. Since healthy weight gain is vital for optimum health, knowing how teens can gain weight is essential to avoid complications that poor weight gain may…
Consider this scenario: you're out with your infant on a warm, bright day, and they are thirsty, but you've forgotten your baby's water bottle at home. So, when you have no other choice, you go to a store and buy bottled water. But is it safe to drink bottled water for babies? If you have…
When you first get out of bed, one of the first things you want is your morning coffee. However, you should be careful about what you eat and drink when pregnant since it directly impacts your baby. Therefore, you might consider the implications of consuming coffee during pregnancy, including how much coffee you should drink.…
Nuts are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Many women may consider having cashew in pregnancy due to the nut\'s rich micronutrient content. The type of food you eat during pregnancy can affect the fetus. Therefore, it is often better to consult a doctor before having a new food item. So, should you consult…
Okra, commonly known as lady’s finger, is a rich source of folate. This post highlights the benefits of okra during pregnancy. Folate is the natural form of folic acid, which is one of the essential nutrients for pregnancy. This prenatal vitamin helps prevent congenitaliXCondition or situation existing right from the birth disabilities such as neuraliXRelated…
Artificial sweeteners are a popular alternative to natural sugar. However, as the name suggests, it is an artificial product. Hence, it must be analyzed how safe it is to consume artificial sweeteners in pregnancy. Sugar is a major energy source. However, excess sugar consumption may increase the risk of certain health problems such as diabetes.…
Many moms look for carrot recipes for babies when introducing them to solids. Carrots are good sources of vitamin A, and they could benefit all the organs in the body. Although it is one of the best foods for weaning babies, consider introducing them to it in small quantities to ensure they are not allergic…
Having custard apples during pregnancy is a healthy choice. It is a seasonal fruit that you would not want to miss. This fruit is a healthy and nutritious choice for both you and your baby. This fruit has its origins in South America and is traditionally known as cherimoya in that part of the world.…
You may reconsider the safety of consuming several fruits during pregnancy, including watermelon during pregnancy. The juicy pulp of the fruit can provide for excellent hydration during summer. Watermelon also contains several nutrients that can be good for your body. Read this post to learn more about the safety, benefits, and possible side effects of…
Is bitter gourd safe during pregnancy? This vegetable is also known as Momordica charantia, karela, bitter melon, hangala, kakarakaya and is often consumed as a staple in many Southeast Asian countries. Bitter melon juice is also consumed for its hypoglycemiciXThe condition wherein the blood sugar level is too low. properties and nutritional benefits. Although bitter…
Women need milk during pregnancy to have a balanced diet. A mom-to-be needs to consume about two to three servings of milk per day unless there are any restrictions or limitations (1). Since it has all of the nine essential amino acids required for sustenance, growth, and development, milk can provide the necessary nutritional needs…
It is common to experience those crazy hunger pangs and cravings while pregnant, and you would want to try all sorts of foods, including deli meat. However, having deli meat during pregnancy may not be appropriate for some women. This cooked and sliced meat is prepared for light meals or sandwiches. There are three types…
Whether you can eat hummus during pregnancy or not is worth discussing. Hummus is a creamy dip used to make sandwiches and wraps healthy. It is prepared using boiled chickpeas and is a staple of the Mediterranean diet. However, you can tweak its ingredients to make healthy hummus variations. But while it’s generally healthy, can…
Oranges are a delicious fruit and are a great source of vitamin C. It is a beloved fruit of many, whether taken as tangy juice or fresh slices. However, you must be cautious about everything you consume when pregnant, and you may be confused about eating oranges during pregnancy. Read this post to learn about…
Dragon fruit or pitaya is a colorful tropical fruit native to South and Central America. It contains several nutrients, such as protein and fiber, and tastes refreshing and sweet. You may consume dragon fruit in pregnancy. However, before adding it to your diet, consult your doctor since isolated cases of dragon fruit allergy have been…
Aloe vera has been a popular component in several skincare and home remedies. However, you may be concerned about the safety of taking aloe vera during pregnancy. Aloe vera consumption is as popular as its topical use. Latex is the sticky residue behind the aloe leaf's crust, and it's valued for its richness in nutrients…
Guava is a sweet and tasty fruit whether it is raw or fully ripe, crunchy or soft and smooth. Those who enjoy it wouldn’t mind eating it every day, especially because of its multiple health benefits. However, you may ponder the question ‘Is guava good for pregnancy’, as it is a time when you should…
Lotus seeds are a low-calorie food commonly used for medicinal purposes in Asia. Since they are rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron, their intake is highly recommended for nursing moms. However, you may wonder if it is safe to eat lotus seeds during pregnancy. Read on as we give you the answer in this…
Many women ponder the safety of having amla during pregnancy. Amla or the Indian gooseberry is a fruit that looks like a lemon. It is green and tastes sweet and sour. Amla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants and contains iron, phosphorus, and calcium. The number of nutrients in this fruit and its innumerable…
If you are craving tuna fish these days, we have gathered some information about the safety of tuna during pregnancy. Canned tuna or the varieties containing high mercury content can risk the baby’s growth. However, fresh tuna with low levels of mercury is often considered safe during pregnancy if consumed in moderate amounts. Moreover, eating…
Eating ghee during pregnancy is beneficial for the overall health of women. Ghee, also called clarified butter, is a good source of fat. It aids in digestion, helps the baby’s growth, and nourishes the mother. For generations, mothers and grandmothers have advised pregnant women to eat ghee. However, you should be careful about the quantity…
You may eat peanuts in pregnancy to get various nutrients. Only women who are allergic to peanuts or groundnuts are advised to avoid them. Although some believe that eating peanuts during pregnancy can cause children to have peanut allergies, there is no scientific evidence to back this claim. Hence, you may include this affordable source…
There is a popular belief that the use of saffron in pregnancy can lead you to have a baby with a fairer skin complexion. This sole reason may seem unconvincing, but are there other scientifically-proven benefits of taking saffron (usually mixed in milk or some other food) when pregnant? Keep reading this post where we…
Escargot is a non-vegetarian exotic preparation made with cooked and edible land snails and is quite popular among food fanatics. While pregnancy can make you crave all sorts of food, you may wonder if it is safe to eat escargot in pregnancy. It is usually served as an appetizer and is known to be rich…
Corn, also known as maize, is a sweet-tasting grain rich in carbohydrates and fiber. Besides, it contains protein and several micronutrients that can effectively contribute to a baby’s nutritional requirements. But is corn for babies safe? Since corn has high amounts of insoluble fiberiXA food component that adds bulk to the stool and helps food…
Fresh and dried figs in pregnancy are safe to consume. These contain higher amounts of fiber and minerals such as iron, magnesium, etc., when compared to other vegetables, fruits, and nuts. They are rich in antioxidants too. Consuming fiber-rich foods help to avoid constipation and related complications in pregnancy. You may eat a few figs…
Fruits and vegetables are great nutritional sources, but as a non-vegetarian parent, you may want to introduce your infant to chicken as soon as possible, so you search for healthy chicken recipes for babies. Chicken has various nutritional advantages due to its low fat and high protein content. It also works well as finger food…
Barley for babies can be highly nutritious and filling. It has become a preferred choice of solid food because of its smooth consistency, which allows it to be easily incorporated in stews and soups. Barley is a good source of fiber, vitamins and minerals (1). In addition, cooking barley is simple and less time-consuming, so…
Corn, also known as maize, is a well-known whole grain extensively consumed worldwide. Yet, is it safe to eat corn during pregnancy and give in to your crunchy corn craving? The cereal is a good source of fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals, but all forms of corn may not be good for pregnant women. Read…
If you crave kiwifruit during pregnancy, learning about its safety is essential before including this “nutritional powerhouse” in your diet. Kiwifruit, also known as Chinese gooseberry, is a juicy fruit loaded with vitamin C, E, folic acid, potassium, trace minerals, and fiber. It is also rich in antioxidants that can have several health-promoting effects. This…
Litchi is a tropical fruit with a fleshy pulp and distinctive flavor and fragrance. In addition, it has a pleasantly sweet taste that may make several pregnant women crave litchi during pregnancy. However, litchi is rich in fructose (a natural sugar in fruits), which can add extra calories to your total calorie intake. Moreover, it…
Congratulations on your baby starting solids. This post on the baby food chart will give you all the required information you have been looking for. The common confusion among mothers who are starting solids for their babies is what to feed their babies. You need to make sure you include all the essential vitamins and…
Breakfast is among the essential meals of the day; therefore, a toddler should eat a healthy breakfast that is highly nutritious and contains energy-rich dietary fibers. However, given toddlers' recent development of taste buds and their eagerness to explore new tastes, you may be looking for easy yet nutritious breakfast recipes for toddlers. They require…