She added that she did not want to be a burden on anyone, which prompted her to take certain steps to maintain the vitality of a 20-year-old. “I started manifesting, exercising and strength training.” Speaking about changing her diet, she revealed that previously she limited her raw food consumption till a certain timing, which she later extended. Interestingly, she highlighted, “I take my meals at room temperature, because I sort of gave up that taste, that food part… to be able to focus on my work, because sometimes food becomes a hindrance. We wait for our lunch time and we waste half-an-hour and then we are waiting for dinner. So, for me food is for sustenance, not for taste.”

This highlights a growing trend among those who prioritise nutrition strictly for health, viewing food as fuel rather than indulgence. This approach raises questions about how food temperature, taste, and nutritional choices impact our health and body composition goals. How does a no-frills, sustenance-focused diet help achieve a desired body type? And what effects might this mindset have on overall health and well-being?

Potential benefits and drawbacks of viewing food as sustenance rather than for taste

Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator, mentions, “Viewing food strictly as sustenance emphasises nutrient intake for optimal health, which can promote a balanced diet and aid in weight management, reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases. This mindset can foster disciplined, health-focused eating habits, beneficial for managing chronic conditions.”

However, she continues, this approach may diminish the joy and cultural significance of food, potentially leading to a strained relationship with eating, reducing variety, and even causing nutrient deficiencies if food choices become overly restrictive. Enjoyment of food plays a crucial role in mental well-being, and a balanced view can enhance long-term adherence to healthy eating patterns.

Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables combat oxidative stress (Source: Freepik)

Can consuming meals at room temperature impact digestion or metabolism?

Consuming meals at room temperature can aid digestion, says Malhotra, as the body does not need to expend extra energy adjusting the food’s temperature. Room-temperature meals, especially if rich in fibre and water, support efficient enzymatic activity, facilitating smoother breakdown and absorption of nutrients. Warm foods may slightly boost metabolic rate by stimulating digestive enzymes, but extremely hot or cold meals can hinder digestion by contracting or shocking the digestive tract. 

“Room-temperature foods, therefore, offer a middle ground — conducive to easier digestion without impacting metabolic efficiency — though the temperature’s effect is relatively minor compared to food quality and nutrient content,” Malhotra notes. 

Specific nutrients that support maintaining a youthful body composition and how they can be incorporated into a simple, sustenance-focused diet

Malhotra informs that critical nutrients that support youthful body composition as we age include “protein, healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins like D, C, and E.” Protein from sources like legumes, lean meats, and dairy helps preserve muscle mass, which declines with age. Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish, flaxseeds, or walnuts) reduce inflammation and support cellular health. Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables combat oxidative stress, while vitamins D and calcium strengthen bones. Fibre from whole grains and vegetables aids digestion and prevents fat accumulation. A simple, sustenance-focused diet can incorporate these by centering meals on lean protein, colourful vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats daily.

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.