Are Tampons Better Than Pads?

Image Credits: AI Generated The teenage years are a period of rapid physical, hormonal, pubertal, mental, and emotional development. Between 13 and 19 years, the body undergoes major changes in height, weight, muscle mass, bone development, puberty, and reproductive health. At the same time, teenagers are dealing with academic pressure, friendships, social expectations, and increasing independence. A balanced, nutrient-dense diet during these years can support healthy growth, bone development, immunity, brain function, and overall wellbeing. Understanding Teenage Growth:  The nutritional needs of a teenager cannot be viewed as exactly the same throughout adolescence. For simplicity, the teenage years can be discussed in two broad stages: 13–15 and 16–18 years, although the timing and pace of growth and puberty vary from one teenager to another.   1. 13–15 years: The Growth Spurt This is often a period of rapid physical and pubertal development. Height and weight can increase quickly, while muscles, bones, and other tissues are developing. The body therefore needs adequate energy, protein, iron, calcium, vitamin D, zinc, and other micronutrients. For girls, the beginning of menstruation makes adequate iron particularly important. 2. 16–18 years: Building The Adult Body Growth may become slower compared with the earlier teenage years, but physical and reproductive maturation continues. Bone mineralisation, muscle development, and changes in body composition are still taking place. This is also the age when teenagers begin making more independent food choices. College, eating outside the home, sports, examinations, peer influence, and social media can increasingly affect eating habits. This makes adolescence an important time to develop healthy eating habits that can continue into adulthood. Source: ICMR-NIN – Dietary Guidelines for Indians, 2024 Also Read: The Puberty Guide: Key Changes, Stages, And Tips For Navigating The Journey The Essential Nutrients For Teen Growth 1. Protein Protein supports muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall development. Include dal, pulses, soy, milk, curd, paneer, eggs, fish, chicken, nuts, and seeds. 2. Iron Iron is essential for haemoglobin and oxygen transport and is particularly important for girls after menstruation begins. Include green leafy vegetables, pulses, millets, nuts, seeds, eggs, meat, and fish. Pairing plant-based iron sources such as pulses and leafy vegetables with vitamin C-rich foods like amla, guava, oranges, or tomatoes can help improve iron absorption.  Source: Role of Oral Vitamin C Supplementation with Iron-Folic Acid in Treating Anemia among School-Going Adolescent Girls Also Read: 5 Signs Of Your Daughter’s First Period 3. Calcium & Vitamin D These nutrients support bone development during the important adolescent growth years. Include milk, curd, paneer, ragi, sesame, and soy. Vitamin D can come from sunlight exposure, certain foods, and supplements when recommended by a healthcare professional.  4. Fruits & Vegetables Fruits and vegetables provide fibre, vitamins, minerals, and protective plant compounds. Encourage a variety of seasonal and locally available options rather than focusing on individual “superfoods.” 5. Healthy Fats Healthy fats provide energy and support several functions in the growing body. Include nuts, seeds, groundnuts, sesame, suitable cooking oils, and fish, where appropriate. 6. Hydration  Hydration is often overlooked during the teenage years. Fluid needs vary depending on age, physical activity, climate, sports participation, and individual needs. Encourage teenagers to drink water regularly throughout the day, especially during physical activity and hot weather.   7. Carbohydrates & Whole Grains Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for growing teenagers. Include foods such as rice, roti, millets, oats, whole grains, potatoes, fruits, and other minimally processed carbohydrate sources as part of balanced meals.  8. Vitamin B12 & Folate Vitamin B12 and folate support normal blood formation and nervous-system function. Vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal foods and fortified foods, while folate is found in green leafy vegetables, pulses, beans, and several fruits. Teenagers following vegetarian or vegan diets may need additional guidance to ensure adequate vitamin B12 intake.  Source: ICMR-NIN – Dietary Guidelines for Indians Healthy Meal Ideas For Teenagers Healthy meals do not need to be complicated. Aim to include a variety of food groups across the day, such as whole grains or cereals, a protein source, vegetables, fruits and dairy or suitable alternatives. Some simple meal combinations include: Roti + dal + vegetable sabzi + curd Rice + rajma or chana + vegetables Idli or dosa + sambar + vegetables Paneer or egg roll + vegetables + fruit Khichdi + vegetables + curd Rice or roti + egg, fish or chicken + vegetables, where these foods are part of the family diet The exact foods can vary depending on culture, preferences, availability and dietary choices. The goal is variety and balance rather than making every meal perfect. Source: Based on food-group and meal-balance principles from ICMR-NIN — Dietary Guidelines for Indians, 2024 Healthy Snack Ideas For Teenagers Snacks can be another opportunity to include nutritious foods, especially during long school days, sports, tuition or busy schedules. Simple options can include: Fresh fruit or vegetable salad with a topping of curd or yoghurt Roasted or boiled chickpeas (chana), peanuts, or other beans Fruit with a handful of nuts and seeds Paneer, served as a snack or in a sandwich Milk or curd with fruit Choose snacks based on the teenager's appetite, routine, food preferences and any dietary needs. Homemade options are generally preferable to packaged or processed snacks high in fat, sugar or salt. Source: ICMR-NIN — Dietary Guidelines for Indians, 2024 Teenage Nutrition Is Also About The Teenage Mind Adolescence is a period of rapid physical, emotional, and social change. Teenagers face academic pressure, examinations, friendships, social expectations, relationships, and growing independence. Balanced nutrition supports growth, energy, concentration, and overall wellbeing. Food should not be presented as a treatment for anxiety, depression, or other mental-health concerns. Persistent changes in mood, sleep, eating patterns, or daily functioning may require professional support. Also read: Mental Health In Teen Girls: A Parent’s Guide Body Image, Social Media & Fad Diets Teenagers are increasingly exposed to edited images, influencers, weight-loss challenges, “what I eat in a day” content, and fad diets. This can create unrealistic expectations around body shape and appearance and may encourage: Meal skipping Excessive food restriction Crash or detox diets Excessive exercise Unhealthy eating patterns Because the body is still growing, unnecessary restriction can compromise energy and nutrient intake. Regular, balanced nutrition can support a teenager’s energy, growth, overall wellbeing, and ability to stay active.  Source: Prevalence and Risk Factors of Eating Disorders Among Indian Adolescents  Do Teenagers Need Supplements? Most nutrient needs should ideally be met through a varied, balanced diet. However, supplements such as iron, vitamin D, or vitamin B12 may be recommended in certain situations. These should be taken based on advice from a qualified healthcare professional rather than self-prescribed.  Some Teens May Need Individual Guidance Nutritional needs may differ for teenagers who are highly active in sports, follow vegetarian or vegan diets, have heavy periods, have food allergies, or regularly restrict certain food groups. In these situations, advice from a qualified healthcare professional or dietitian may be helpful.  Building A Healthy Relationship With Food Food should not be labelled simply as “good” or “bad.” Teenagers should understand that food provides nourishment, energy, enjoyment, and social connection. A healthy relationship with food can continue to develop during the teenage years, but its foundation ideally begins much earlier in childhood.  Encourage teenagers to: Listen to hunger and fullness cues Eat regular meals Enjoy a variety of foods Include nutritious foods regularly Enjoy occasional treats without guilt Focus on consistency rather than perfection Parents should avoid using food, weight, or body size as a source of guilt, shame, reward, or punishment. Make Healthy Choices Normal Healthy eating works best when it becomes part of everyday family life. Parents can: Keep fruits easily available Stock nutritious snacks such as nuts and seeds Keep sugary drinks as occasional choices Source: Indian Academy of Pediatrics guidelines on fast food, junk food and sugar-sweetened beverages Beyond food choices, everyday habits matter too. Parents can also: Offer balanced, home-cooked meals Include protein regularly Make water the usual beverage Cook and eat together when possible Allow occasional treats without guilt Avoid dieting and weight-focused conversations at the dining table Note To Parents: Change The Food Environment Instead of repeatedly telling teenagers to “eat healthy,” change the environment around them. Prepare nutrient-dense meals by combining different food groups wherever possible. For example, a meal containing whole grains, vegetables, and a protein source such as paneer can provide a wider variety of nutrients.  Make nutritious foods accessible. Make balanced meals the everyday norm while keeping highly processed foods as occasional choices.  Make water the default drink. Encourage healthier choices for the whole family. Healthy Eating Should Be a Family Behaviour Teenagers learn by watching the adults around them. Healthy habits are easier to build when the whole family participates. Parents can model healthy habits by: Eating balanced meals Enjoying fruits and vegetables Keeping highly processed foods as occasional choices  Avoiding extreme diets Practising healthy eating without focusing excessively on weight. Source: Modeling Parental Influence on Teenagers' Food Consumption (FLASHE Survey) Separate Health From Appearance Health should not be defined by body size or appearance. Focus on: Nourishment Strength Energy Growth Physical and mental wellbeing This helps teenagers care for their bodies without developing unnecessary fear or guilt around food and weight. The Bottom Line Adolescence is a nutritional window of opportunity. Adequate protein, carbohydrates, iron, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, and other essential nutrients support healthy growth and development. But healthy teenage nutrition is about more than nutrients. It is about building a healthy relationship with food and creating healthy habits as a family.  Avoid fad diets.  Limit exposure to appearance-focused social media content.  Make nutritious foods accessible.  Allow occasional treats without guilt.  Focus on health rather than appearance.  The habits built during adolescence can become the foundation for healthier adulthood. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What nutrients are most important for teenagers?Teenagers need a balanced diet with protein, carbohydrates, iron, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. Needs may vary based on age, growth, and activity level. 2. Do teenagers need supplements?Most nutrient needs should ideally come from a varied diet. Supplements such as iron, vitamin D, or vitamin B12 may be needed in some cases, but only with professional guidance. 3. Can vegetarian teenagers get enough protein, iron, and vitamin B12?Yes, with careful food choices. Protein and iron can come from pulses, soy, dairy, nuts, seeds, millets, and leafy vegetables. Vitamin B12 may need extra attention, especially in vegetarian or vegan diets. 4. What should parents do if a teenager regularly skips meals?Keep nutritious foods easily available and avoid turning meals into conflict. If meal skipping becomes frequent or is linked to body-image concerns or other changes in wellbeing, professional guidance may help. 5. How can parents encourage healthy eating without focusing on weight?Focus on energy, strength, growth, and wellbeing rather than appearance. Parents can also model balanced eating and avoid weight-focused conversations at home. Disclaimer: This content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.  Smitha Ramesh Nutritionist • Founder, The Nutriverse With over 20 years of experience in health education, she is committed to promoting preventive nutrition and healthy living, helping individuals and communities reduce the risk of chronic and life threatening diseases. Through early intervention, practical dietary guidance, and sustainable lifestyle modifications, she empowers people to improve long term health outcomes and minimise disease related complications.

Image Credits: AI Generated Travelling can be exciting, but if you experience light bladder leaks, a long flight, road trip, train journey, or day of sightseeing can sometimes make you feel less confident. You may wonder where the next bathroom is, whether you should drink less water, or what you will do if a leak happens unexpectedly. The good news is that a little preparation can make travelling much easier. Here are some simple, practical tips to help you travel with more confidence. 1. Plan Your Restroom Stops Image Credits: AI Generated Before you start your journey, take a quick look at where the bathrooms are. If you're travelling by car, check the rest stops along your route. If you're flying or taking a train, notice where the restrooms are when you arrive. You don't need to plan every bathroom visit. Simply knowing where you can go when you need to can help you feel more prepared. 2. Don't Avoid Water Just Because You're Travelling Image Credits: AI Generated It can be tempting to drink less water because you're worried about leaks. However, avoiding fluids completely isn't a good solution. Your fluid needs can vary depending on your health, activity, weather, and other factors. Research has looked at the relationship between fluid intake and urinary symptoms in women, showing that managing bladder leakage isn't as simple as simply drinking less. Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10207763/ Instead of stopping water altogether, keep yourself comfortably hydrated and follow any individual advice given by your healthcare professional. 3. Notice Which Drinks Affect You Image Credits: AI Generated Some women notice that certain drinks make their bladder symptoms worse. Caffeine is one example. Research has examined the relationship between caffeine intake and urinary leakage in women, although the effect can vary from person to person. Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10207763/ If you already know that coffee, tea, or another drink makes you feel the urge to urinate more often, you may want to be mindful of it before a long journey. You don't have to assume every drink is a problem. Pay attention to what affects your own body. 4. Pack a Small Emergency Kit You don't need to carry a huge bag. A small pouch can include: One or two extra pairs of underwear A spare pair of bottoms Tissues or wipes A small waterproof bag for used clothing Your preferred leak protection Keep the pouch somewhere easy to reach, especially when you're travelling by plane or train. That way, you don't have to open your entire suitcase if you need something unexpectedly. 5. Choose Leak Protection That Suits You Image Credits: AI Generated If you experience light bladder leaks, absorbent products can help you manage unexpected leakage while travelling. Research specifically examining women with light urinary incontinence has compared different absorbent products, including disposable inserts and washable pants with integral pads. Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17443507/ Another study also compared different absorbent product designs for women with light urinary incontinence. Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18547500/ There isn't necessarily one product that will be right for every woman. Think about what works best for your: Level of leakage Comfort Clothing Travel duration Personal preference If you prefer reusable underwear, you can also explore Adira's Incontinence Underwear collection as one option for managing light leaks. The goal is simple: choose something that helps you feel comfortable and prepared without making your trip more complicated.  6. Keep Spare Clothes Within Easy Reach A spare change of clothes can be useful when you're travelling. Instead of keeping everything in your main suitcase, keep one change of underwear and a lightweight bottom in your handbag or carry-on. If an unexpected leak happens, you'll have a backup close by. It's a small step, but knowing that you have a backup can make you feel much more relaxed. 7. Wear Comfortable Clothes Travel often means sitting for long periods, walking more than usual, and moving between different places. Choose clothes that are comfortable and easy to change if needed. You don't need to change your personal style because of bladder leaks. Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident. 8. Give Yourself Extra Time Try not to make your travel schedule too tight. Arriving a little earlier gives you time to: Find the bathroom Check your gate or platform Organise your belongings Get something to drink Settle down before your journey begins You don't have to rush from one place to another. A few extra minutes can make a travel day feel much less stressful. 9. Don't Try New Bladder Exercises While Travelling You may have heard about bladder training or pelvic floor exercises for urinary incontinence. These are established approaches used in managing some forms of urinary incontinence, but they are not something you need to experiment with during a holiday or long journey. A systematic review of treatments for urinary incontinence in women found evidence supporting several nonsurgical approaches, including behavioural treatments and pelvic floor muscle training, depending on the type of incontinence. Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30516945/ If you're interested in bladder training or pelvic floor exercises, it's better to discuss the right approach with a qualified healthcare professional. 10. Don't Let One Leak Ruin Your Trip An unexpected leak can feel embarrassing, especially when you're away from home. But being prepared can make it easier to handle. Keep your essentials nearby, know where the bathrooms are, carry a spare change of clothes, and use the type of leak protection that you're comfortable with. You don't have to spend your entire trip thinking about your bladder. Prepare for the possibility, then get back to enjoying your journey. When Should You Talk To A Healthcare Professional? Image Credits: AI Generated Light bladder leaks can happen for different reasons. If leakage becomes frequent, gets worse, starts affecting your everyday activities, or concerns you, it is worth speaking with a healthcare professional. Urinary incontinence has different types and causes, so the right management approach can depend on what is causing the leakage. Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30516945/ You don't have to simply accept ongoing leakage as something you have to live with. Frequently Asked Questions Can I travel if I have light bladder leaks? Yes. Light bladder leaks don't mean you have to stop travelling. Planning bathroom stops, carrying a few essentials, and having leak protection can help you feel more comfortable. What should I pack if I have bladder leaks? Keep a small pouch with extra underwear, a spare change of clothes, leak protection, tissues or wipes, and a bag for storing wet clothing. Should I sit near the bathroom on a flight? If you're worried about needing the bathroom quickly, an aisle seat can make it easier to get up when needed. Should I drink less water before travelling? Try not to drastically reduce your water intake just because you're worried about leaks. Stay comfortably hydrated and follow any specific advice from your healthcare professional. Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10207763/ Can coffee make bladder leaks worse? Caffeine may increase urinary symptoms for some women. If you notice that coffee or tea makes you need the bathroom more often, consider limiting it before a long journey. Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10207763/ What type of protection is best for light bladder leaks while travelling? There is no single option that works for everyone. Pads, liners, and absorbent underwear can all be options. Choose based on your level of leakage, comfort, fit, and how long you'll be travelling. Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17443507/ Disclaimer This blog is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Light bladder leaks can have different causes. If your leakage is frequent, getting worse, painful, or affecting your daily life, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

Image Credits: AI Generated Staying hydrated during pregnancy is important for supporting digestion, circulation, nutrient transport, and the formation of amniotic fluid. However, nausea and vomiting can make drinking enough water difficult, particularly during the first trimester. The answer is not necessarily to force yourself to drink a large glass of water at once. Small, regular amounts may be easier to tolerate and can help you stay hydrated through the day.  Hydration During Pregnancy: Start With The Basics Pregnancy increases the body's need for water. A practical approach is to spread your fluid intake throughout the day rather than waiting until you feel thirsty.  How Much Water Should You Drink During Pregnancy? During pregnancy, women may need around 8 to 12 cups (64 to 96 ounces) of water every day, although individual requirements can vary. Water aids digestion and helps form the amniotic fluid around the fetus.  Your needs may increase in hot weather, during exercise, or when you are losing fluids through vomiting or diarrhoea. If you have specific health concerns or have been advised differently, follow your doctor's guidance. Source: ACOG - How much water should I drink during pregnancy?  The 7 Hydration Tips 1. Sip, Don’t Drink Large Quantities At Once When nausea is present, drinking a large quantity of water at one sitting can feel uncomfortable and may trigger more nausea. Instead, try taking smaller amounts at regular intervals. Smaller amounts at a time may be easier to tolerate than drinking a full bottle or large glass in one go. Keep water nearby and take frequent sips throughout the day. The aim is to make hydration a regular habit rather than something you have to catch up on later. Source: NHS – Vomiting and Morning Sickness  2. Find A Way To Make Water Easier To Drink If plain water suddenly feels unappealing during pregnancy, experiment with its temperature. Some women may find cool water easier to drink, while others prefer water at room temperature. You can also try drinking from a straw, using a bottle that is easy to carry, or taking small sips between meals. If a particular smell or taste triggers nausea, avoid it rather than forcing yourself to tolerate it. 3. Eat Your Water Hydration does not only come from drinking water. Foods with a high water content can also contribute to your overall fluid intake. Seasonal fruits and vegetables, soups, and other fluid-rich foods can be useful when drinking plain water feels difficult. Watermelon, oranges, muskmelon, berries, cucumber, and other locally available produce can add both fluids and nutrients to your diet. Choose fruits and vegetables that are fresh, properly washed, and safely prepared during pregnancy. Food safety is particularly important because certain food-borne infections can be more serious during pregnancy.  Source: CDC – Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women  Also Read: A Guide To Maternity Panties From First Trimester To Beyond  4. Choose Whole Fruits Over Fruit Juice Fruit juices are often marketed as a healthy drink, but whole fruit is generally a better everyday choice. Whole fruit provides fibre, which is one reason to choose it more often than fruit juice. Choosing a seasonal and locally available fruit can also be a simple way to add fluids without relying on packaged beverages. Source: Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030 If you are experiencing significant dehydration or repeated vomiting, speak to your healthcare provider about the appropriate fluids and treatment. Source: NHS – Vomiting and Morning Sickness 5. Be Mindful Of Tea, Coffee & Sugary Drinks Tea and coffee can contribute to fluid intake, but they should not replace water as your primary source of hydration. During pregnancy, caffeine intake should also remain within the limits recommended by your healthcare provider. Keep caffeine intake below 200 mg per day during pregnancy.  Source: ACOG – How Much Coffee Can I Drink While I’m Pregnant?  It is also best to limit energy drinks, aerated drinks, and heavily sweetened packaged beverages. These may add considerable sugar or caffeine without providing the nutritional benefits of whole foods. Make water your first choice and use naturally water-rich foods to add variety. Source: CDC – Clinical Overview of Heat and Pregnancy Also Read: Bras During Pregnancy: How To Choose The Right Fit For You  6. Hydrate According To The Weather Your fluid needs can change with your environment. Hot and humid weather can increase sweating and fluid loss, particularly if you are walking, exercising, or spending time outdoors. If you have been advised that exercise is safe during your pregnancy, consider walking or exercising during the cooler parts of the day instead of peak heat. Drink fluids regularly and avoid prolonged exposure to very hot conditions. If you have significant fluid loss through sweating, vomiting, or diarrhoea, your electrolyte needs may also change. Your healthcare provider can advise whether an oral rehydration solution or another electrolyte-containing fluid is appropriate. Source: CDC – Clinical Overview of Heat and Pregnancy  7. Know The Signs Of Dehydration Do not ignore persistent vomiting or difficulty keeping fluids down. Dehydration can occur when fluid losses are not adequately replaced. Dizziness, very little urine, dark urine, weakness, or an inability to keep fluids down are reasons to contact your obstetric care provider. Severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can sometimes require medical treatment to restore lost fluids. Source: NHS – Vomiting and morning sickness  When To Seek Medical Advice Contact your healthcare provider if you are unable to keep fluids down, are passing very little urine, have very dark urine, feel persistently dizzy or weak, or are concerned that you may be dehydrated. Persistent or severe vomiting during pregnancy may require medical treatment to replace lost fluids. Source: NHS – Vomiting and morning sickness The Bottom Line The goal of hydration during pregnancy is not to force down large quantities of water. It is to drink regularly, choose nourishing water-rich foods, practise good food safety, and adjust your fluid intake according to your environment and activity level. Small, frequent sips may be easier to manage when nausea is present. Seasonal fruits, vegetables, and soups can complement your fluid intake, while limiting excess caffeine, energy drinks, aerated drinks, and sugary packaged beverages can support healthier choices. Most importantly, persistent vomiting or signs of dehydration should not be managed at home indefinitely. Getting timely medical advice can help prevent dehydration and electrolyte disturbances and make pregnancy more comfortable. FAQs 1. How much water should I drink during pregnancy? Around 8–12 cups of water per day is recommended during pregnancy, although your individual requirement can vary depending on your health, activity level, climate and fluid losses.  2. What can I do if plain water makes me nauseous during pregnancy? Try taking small, frequent sips rather than drinking a large amount at once. You can also experiment with chilled or room-temperature water and include safe, water-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and soups. 3. Do I need electrolyte drinks during pregnancy? Not necessarily. For everyday hydration, water and a balanced diet are usually the foundation. If you are losing significant fluids because of vomiting, diarrhoea or heavy sweating, speak with your healthcare professional about whether an oral rehydration solution or another electrolyte-containing fluid is appropriate. 4. When should I worry about dehydration during pregnancy? Very dark urine, passing very little urine, severe weakness, dizziness or fainting, and being unable to keep food or fluids down are signs that you should contact your healthcare professional promptly. 5. Can dehydration affect pregnancy? Dehydration can affect how you feel during pregnancy and may cause symptoms such as dizziness, weakness and reduced urination. Significant dehydration, especially when caused by persistent vomiting or illness, should be discussed with your healthcare provider. 6. What drinks are best for staying hydrated during pregnancy? Water should generally be your main source of hydration. Milk, soups, coconut water and safe water-rich foods can also contribute to fluid intake. Keep caffeine within recommended pregnancy limits and limit heavily sweetened or energy drinks. Disclaimer:This content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health-related decisions. Smitha Ramesh Nutritionist • Founder, The Nutriverse With over 20 years of experience in health education, she is committed to promoting preventive nutrition and healthy living, helping individuals and communities reduce the risk of chronic and life threatening diseases. Through early intervention, practical dietary guidance, and sustainable lifestyle modifications, she empowers people to improve long term health outcomes and minimise disease related complications.