Handful of almonds daily help me stay fit: Sonali Bendre

Mumbai March 28 (IANS) Actress and fitness enthusiast Sonali Bendre says that eating a healthy diet including a handful of almonds every day and a regular exercise regime help her stay fit.

"I have realised that to ensure my family stays healthy it is important I stay fit and healthy myself " said the actress while taking part at a panel discussion titled "Badam pe Charcha-Working Mother s Dilemma in Ensuring the Family Health" organised by the Almond Board of California here on Wednesday.

The panel addressed a common conundrum working mothers face -- juggling their careers and responsibilities for managing the household and their roles as mothers wives and often daughter-in-law.

Being a full-time working mother can lead to feelings of guilt and stress because of divided attention between work and family.

"For working mothers creating a work-life balance is critical as we must ensure we do not neglect any significant part of our lives -- our children our family s health our own health and fitness our marriage and of course our careers " said the actress who is married to filmmaker Goldie Behl.

The 43-year-old actress said being a working mother she can understand how stress inducing the feeling of ignoring responsibilities can be.

"Incorporating small changes/additions in one s daily routine can have a big impact. For example eating a healthy diet including a handful of almonds every day and a regular exercise regime not only helps me maintain a healthy life but also balance both my family s health as well as my own " Sonali said.

Participating in the discussion renowned pilates expert and diet and nutrition consultant Madhuri Ruia said a handful of almonds may have satiating properties that promote feelings of fullness which keep hunger at bay between meals.

"When trying to juggle between home family and work a well-balanced diet and regular exercise can go a long way in ensuring good health for working mothers. Most of us already know about this but find it difficult to do " Ruia said.

"The trick is to start small and snack smart! For instance snacking on almonds instead of consuming unwholesome snacks for your in-between meal cravings can make a healthy difference to your life " she added.

--IANS
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