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Shilpa Shetty recently made it official on Instagram — that she is a batata vada girl. The fitness enthusiast, otherwise known for sharing nutritious recipes and yoga routines, now has her eyes set on this popular Maharashtrian street food. Her post has struck a chord with fans who loved her indulgence in her usual clean eating. Shilpa’s latest food obsession dates back to the early 20th century, when the Portuguese brought potatoes to India, after which the dish is named. This scrumptious deep-fried potato-besan fritter was a staple for the mill workers. It satiated their taste buds and kept them running throughout the day. Over time, it became more than just a snack and evolved into a symbol of Mumbai’s working-class resilience, alongside the city’s undying love for comfort food.
As Shetty enjoys her delicious break from fitness, we reached out to Ashlesha Joshi, a Fitness Dietician and Nutritionist at Tone 30 Pilates, to understand the complete nutrient profile of this irresistible street food. Because let’s be honest — even the fittest of us can’t say no to a perfectly spiced, freshly fried batata vada.
Q1. What happens to the body if someone eats fried foods like batata vada daily?
“Eating fried foods like batata vada every day can gradually affect the body in several ways,” she says. Joshi explains, “Regular intake of deep-fried foods increases the consumption of unhealthy fats and excess calories, which can raise bad cholesterol levels and contribute to weight gain. Over time, this can also impact cardiovascular health and digestion.” She warns, “The repetitive use of oil during frying further increases trans fats, which are particularly harmful for heart health and inflammation in the body.”
Q2. Are there nutritional benefits at all in batata vada?
“Despite being a fried snack, batata vada does offer some nutritional value,” according to Joshi. “The potato filling provides carbohydrates for quick energy, and if prepared with ingredients like turmeric, mustard seeds, and curry leaves, it can also offer small amounts of antioxidants and micronutrients,” the nutritionist clarifies. However, she cautions that “frying diminishes these benefits and significantly increases the calorie and fat content, making moderation key.”
Q3. Are there specific health risks associated with consuming it regularly for breakfast?
Joshi confirms that regularly eating batata vada for breakfast can pose certain health risks. “Starting the day with a fried, carb-heavy meal can lead to energy spikes followed by crashes, affecting concentration and metabolism,” she explains. Over time, she adds, this may also contribute to issues like insulin resistance, acidity, and higher cholesterol levels. “A breakfast high in refined carbs and fats but low in protein and fiber is less likely to sustain energy through the day,” she notes.
Q4. Can occasional indulgence in batata vada fit into a balanced diet?
“Absolutely,” says Joshi, affirming that enjoying batata vada occasionally can fit nicely within a balanced diet as long as one maintains overall dietary moderation and portion control. She clarifies that “having it once in a while as part of a diverse diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins poses no harm.” According to the nutritionist, focusing on the frequency and portion is more important than completely eliminating traditional foods.
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Q5. How can someone make batata vada healthier without losing its taste?
“There are several ways to make batata vada healthier while keeping its flavour intact,” she explains. “Using an air fryer or baking instead of deep-frying can drastically reduce oil absorption. Similarly, opting for whole wheat or besan batter instead of refined flour adds more fiber and protein,” Joshi points out. She further suggests including vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach in the potato filling to enhance the nutritional profile. “Using heart-healthy oils like mustard or groundnut oil in moderation also makes a difference,” she says, while adding that homemade chutneys should be preferred.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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