Shop smart to eat healthy, says chef
Malaysians urged to buy fresh local produce instead of canned products
PETALING JAYA: The first step to cultivating a healthy eating habit is by making healthy shopping choices, says Sunway Le Cordon Bleu technical director and cuisine chef instructor Rodolphe Onno.
Instead of stocking up on canned products or processed food from the supermarket, Onno advises Malaysians to go to their local market and shop for fresh fruits and vegetables.
“You have so many affordable fresh produce in the market. If you give your body the right daily nutrition, you give your body and brain strength to focus on your daily work,” said the French man.
Onno said something as simple as a banana or some eggs for breakfast is enough to fuel your body with nutrition for the morning.
He warns that unhealthy meals lacking in a good balance of nutrition could lead to cravings and overeating.
“If you take too much processed food, fast food and oily food, your body will say ‘ hey boss, I need more nutrition and vitamin, if you don’t feed me that I will be hungry and ask for more until I get what I need’,” Onno said.
He said Malaysian cuisine traditionally uses a lot of spice and deep-frying as those are methods to preserve food in the humid tropical weather.
“But what happens is you lose nutrition as the vitamins are destroyed by the high temperature,” he said.
However, Malaysia is not lacking in nutritional food as local produce from coconuts to turmeric is packed with vitamins and minerals.
“The best medicine is what you choose to eat. If you select your food well, you would not need to see the doctor unnecessarily,” he added.
Onno will be hosting and judging the Live Great Healthy Brekkie Challenge held in conjunction with the Star Health Expo 2018 on July 15.
In collaboration with Sunway Le Cordon Bleu, the challenge would see participants preparing a healthy “no-cook” meal within the stipulated time.
Onno said he will be judging participants on five criteria – preparation, healthiest dish, flavour, creativity and presentation.
“I look forward to discovering something interesting from the participants and meeting people who are inspired by food,” Onno added.
Star Health Expo 2018 with the theme “Get Fit. Live Great!” aims to inspire Malaysians to lead a healthy lifestyle and adopt a holistic approach that includes physical and mental health, emotional well-being and financial wellness.
It is organised by I.Star Events Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Star Media Group Bhd with Great Eastern Life as the exclusive event partner.
The expo will be held in Halls 1 to 3 of the Mid Valley Exhibition Centre from July 13 to 15. It is open from 10am to 7pm and admission is free. For enquiries, call 03-79671388 (ext 1541/1097) or visit us at www.facebook. com/starhealthexpo.