Soups and salads are often considered integral actors in a healthy diet especially if you are on a weight-loss journey. Whether one desires glowing skin or perfected digestion, soups and salads are always in the conversation. However, have you ever wondered if soups and salads are always a healthy option? 

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While it is a common belief that soups and salads must be consumed for healthy metabolism and weight loss, experts suggest that there are proper ways and time to consume them to get desired and healthy results. Let us find out what these are.

Here are some suggestions by nutritionist Siddhant Bhargava to be kept in mind before swearing by soups and salads for health and weight loss.

It’s not a 3-time meal plan

Nutritionists often suggest that while it is good to have soups and salads in breakfast or dinner as these must be light, it is not advisable to have salads or soups in all three meals.

One must always take something heavy and rich in carbohydrates like rice, pulse, etc in lunch for proper energy.

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No sugar and thickening agents

Many people tend to add sugar, honey and other thickening agents to make the soup tastier and give it a better smooth texture. Dr Siddhant says if your soup has nay such agents, the goodness and benefits of the soup are lost and it is of no use to consume it.

Salads must be freshly cut

Many of us try and cut the fruits and vegetables for a salad at once and store it to consume at regular intervals to save time. Some even carry it in a tiffin box to work and other places. However, Dr Siddhant says it’s a big no-no.

The benefit of salad can be taken only when you have it close to cutting and is fresh. When the salad is kept for a long time, its anti-oxidants are lost. 

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Salad must have some source of protein

Salads are undoubtedly a healthy meal as it contains vitamins but the benefits are not enough if it does not have a source of protein or not consumed with protein. Without protein, a diet is incomplete.

Thus, salads must be paired with fish, dal, paneer, egg or beans.