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Indian diet plan for free

Explore the staples of Indian eating with this balanced diet plan. From hearty dals to nutritious veggies and whole grains, it offers a well-rounded approach to everyday meals that cater to all your dietary needs.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Rice
  • Lentils
  • Wheat flour
  • Chickpeas
  • Tomatoes
  • Potatoes
  • Onions
  • Spinach
  • Cauliflower
  • Eggplant
  • Green peas

  • Carrots
  • Bell peppers
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Cucumber
  • Bananas
  • Apples
  • Oranges
  • Mangoes
  • Papayas
  • Chicken

  • Fish
  • Beef
  • Yogurt
  • Milk
  • Paneer
  • Ghee
  • Mustard oil
  • Turmeric powder
  • Cumin seeds
  • Coriander powder
  • Green chilies

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Article Reviewed
• Written by Zuzanna Kędziora
• Published on May 22, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The indian diet plan is a versatile approach to eating that accommodates a wide range of nutritional needs while highlighting traditional Indian ingredients. It includes a balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates sourced from legumes, whole grains, and fresh vegetables.

This diet is naturally rich in fiber and antioxidants due to the heavy use of fruits, vegetables, and spices like turmeric and ginger. It’s designed to be adaptable, fitting the dietary preferences and needs of individuals while promoting overall health.

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Foods to eat

  • Whole Grains: Brown rice, whole wheat, and millets like ragi and jowar which provide essential B vitamins and fiber.
  • Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans are excellent protein sources and rich in fiber.
  • Vegetables: A variety of colored vegetables, especially leafy greens, for vitamins and minerals.
  • Fruits: Seasonal fruits like mangoes, bananas, and guavas that offer essential vitamins and hydration.
  • Dairy: Milk, yogurt, and paneer for calcium and protein.
  • Healthy Fats: Ghee, coconut oil, and mustard oil used in moderate cooking to provide essential fatty acids.
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Try to include one color from each color category most days of the week. For example, have blue and red berries in your smoothie, leafy greens with your lunch, purple carrots and orange.

Mark Hyman, MD

Foods not to eat

  • Processed Foods: Avoid packaged snacks, instant noodles, and processed meats that contain unhealthy fats and additives.
  • High Sugar Beverages: Cut down on sugary drinks, canned juices, and energy drinks.
  • Refined Carbs: Limit white rice, white bread, and pastries which offer little nutritional value.
  • Deep-Fried Foods: Reduce consumption of deep-fried snacks and sweets that are high in unhealthy fats.
  • Excessive Salt: Watch the intake of salt-heavy pickles, papads, and condiments to manage blood pressure.

Main benefits

One of the stellar perks of the Indian diet plan is its vibrant use of spices like turmeric and ginger, which not only kick flavor into overdrive but also boast potent anti-inflammatory properties. Another notable benefit is its reliance on plant-based foods and whole grains which can enhance digestive health and promote a sustained feeling of fullness. The Indian diet plan is naturally rich in fiber, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and support heart health. Plus, it’s a colorful plate: the variety of fruits and vegetables included provides a wide range of antioxidants that aid in combating free radicals and improving skin health.

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📊 Recommended food breakdown (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Following a traditional Indian diet can be both delicious and budget-friendly with a few smart strategies. Start by incorporating inexpensive staples like rice, lentils, and vegetables into your meals as the foundation of your diet. Utilize spices and herbs to add flavor without the need for expensive sauces or seasonings. Shop at local markets or ethnic grocery stores for affordable produce and specialty ingredients. Cook in bulk and freeze portions for later to save time and money on meal prep. And don't forget to balance your meals with a variety of nutrients from different food groups for optimal health and satisfaction.

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

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7-Day Meal Plan for Indian Diet Plan

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Wheat flour paratha with yogurt and a banana
  • Lunch: Rice with lentil dal and a side of spinach and potato curry
  • Dinner: Chicken curry with rice and a cucumber salad
  • Snack: Apple slices with a small piece of paneer

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Yogurt with chopped mango and a sprinkle of cumin seeds
  • Lunch: Chickpea curry with wheat flour chapati and a side of carrot and bell pepper salad
  • Dinner: Fish curry with rice and sautéed cauliflower
  • Snack: Sliced papaya

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Milk with turmeric powder and a papaya
  • Lunch: Rice with green peas and potato curry and a side of cucumber raita
  • Dinner: Beef curry with wheat flour chapati and sautéed eggplant
  • Snack: Orange slices

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Paneer and spinach stuffed paratha with yogurt
  • Lunch: Lentil dal with rice and a side of cauliflower and green pea stir-fry
  • Dinner: Chicken curry with wheat flour chapati and carrot salad
  • Snack: Mango slices

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Yogurt with chopped bananas and a sprinkle of coriander powder
  • Lunch: Rice with chickpea curry and a side of sautéed bell peppers
  • Dinner: Fish curry with rice and a cucumber salad
  • Snack: Apple slices

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Milk with turmeric powder and a sliced orange
  • Lunch: Lentil dal with wheat flour chapati and a side of spinach and potato curry
  • Dinner: Chicken curry with rice and a carrot salad
  • Snack: Papaya slices

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Wheat flour paratha with yogurt and a banana
  • Lunch: Rice with green pea and potato curry and a side of cucumber raita
  • Dinner: Beef curry with wheat flour chapati and sautéed eggplant
  • Snack: Orange slices

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.