A double onslaught fast approaches- One of the most anticipated series Games of Thrones makes way as well as the pile on of calories. My arch nemesis for the longest time, the best description of these suckers is something I read; tiny creatures that live in ones closet and sew clothes a little bit tighter every night, drawing an analogous quest and claim for ‘Waist-eros’. Hopefully this season will be kind and not indulge me in binge eating over marathon sessions. Now while I sit back awaiting a challenge laid down by the lovely folk at PEMA a wellness resort in Vishakhapatnam, where I’m enticed to a multi-coursed 500 gram gourmet meal, the intrigue and surprise on my face runs comparable to the time the Mother of Dragons sat down to Khal Drogo’s breakfast specialty- a horses heart. Luckily, this all-vegetarian led holistic healing centers atop a hill with the picturesque coastline ahead has thrown down the gauntlet. Challenge accepted.

With grams weighed and a calorie intake monitor in place under the strict eyes of dieticians and master chef’s creating wonders, this is one of my meals. Starting off with a Curried Cauliflower soup (200 grams at 59 calories) followed by Herbed Mushroom Caviar (120 at 97) and a Soufflé de legume (200 at 186) and Honey glazed apple sandwich (100 at 70) totaling to an astonishing 412 calories over this four-course meal! Speechless. With the right exercise, water intake and calorie count with expert supervision for a variety of body cleanses, I drop an astonishing 3.5 kilos in 5 days. But it did get me thinking- the calorie wars can be won if we condition ourselves to avoid ‘binge eating and drinking’ over our favorite prime time shows. But if the need does arise, there’s hope in these substitutes that could combat one’s meteoric calorie rise.

Moong dal- Every Indian’s favorite, this dal is full of Vitamin A, B, C and E and many minerals, such as calcium, iron and potassium. It is often advised by dieticians to replace fatty foods with Moon dal as it is a weight loss food that is rich in proteins and fiber, so one feels fuller after having a bowl of dal for a long time and curbs your cravings. My recommendation would be adding finely chopped onions, tomatoes, boiled potatoes, sprinkle of rock salt, pepper, a dash of lemon and top it with coriander and bhel- “Voila! Chaat a la Moong”. Try substituting this for the buttered popcorn. Don’t hate me just yet.

Dhokla- This humble dish from Gujarat is famous all over. This light and fluffy delicacy is seasoned with coriander leaves, mustard seeds, green chutney and fried green chilies. Made from fermented flour it is rich in nutritive values. Being steamed and not fried, dhokla has less oil content, makes them low on calories. 100 gms of dhokla contains only 160 calories! Need I say more?

Cinnamon- Everything is nice about this weight loss food. This nutty flavor spice is also known for its diabetes fighting properties. Add ground cinnamon as a replacement for sugar in cake dough or in your tea and coffee to get the most out of this wonderful spice every day. If it’s too much of a hassle indulge in dark chocolate, the darker the better and stick to a few pieces, please.

Beetroot juice- Yes this is the odd one out, but trust me beet juice gives your body a stamina boost allowing you to exercise longer and burn more calories post the show. Beets are a blood-building herb that detoxifies blood and renews it with minerals and natural sugars. This weight loss food also aids in eliminating toxins from your body. Try my favorite concoction- 2 medium sized beetroots, 2 oranges, 5 slice of fresh pineapple, 2 tablespoons of Lemon Juice and a sprig of Mint. Voila- should keep your cravings to the least minimum. Blend and savor. 

Valar Dohaeris Caloris Non! (Loose translation; All Men must NOT serve calories!) Shoot me already. 

Enjoy the show.