‘A cup of hot water with cinnamon before bedtime’: How this actor finishes her day

Malaika Arora, 49, is an Indian Bollywood actor and author who is visiting Melbourne this month to attend the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. She shares her day on a plate.

7am I always begin my day with yoga, then drink some hot water with lemon and honey, followed
by hot water with cinnamon.

9am I follow intermittent fasting, so I usually grab some nuts to break the fast and provide great energy to start my day.

12pm Lunch is steamed rice with vegies and lentils.

3pm I have a peanut salad snack, then go for a walk by the beach with my dog.

6.30pm Dinner is Malabar fish curry, a glass of green juice and a bowl of fruit.

9pm A cup of hot water with cinnamon before bedtime.

Dr Joanna McMillan says:

Top marks for … The spices in your curry, which add a wealth of antioxidants, while the cinnamon may help improve blood glucose control by regulating insulin sensitivity. Lentils are a great addition to lunch as they add fibre and plant protein.

If you keep eating like this you’ll … Have all the makings of a diet that supports longevity and a low risk of chronic disease. This is largely attributed to the broad range of plant foods, including plentiful legumes, nuts, vegies and fruit, supplemented with fish.

Why don’t you try … Making sure that your rice is wholegrain to boost your fibre and B-group vitamin intake. Include oily fish such as trout, sardines or kingfish to deliver more long-chain omega-3 fats.

Malaika Arora will be visiting Melbourne in August as part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.

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