YourStory: A Pair of Brew Genes — Anu Acharya, India’s Genomics Queen, Has a Tea for Every Mood
Originally published in YourStory.
Oregano. Sage. Ginseng. Ginger. Saffron. Cinnamon. Lavender. Turmeric. Chrysanthemum. Eucalyptus. Tulsi. Clove. Cardamom. Ashwagandha. We’re not describing an exotic grocery list, but some of the contents of the shelves of Anu Acharya’s office.
“When I first met Anu, I was quite taken in by her office. Nestled within a bustling workplace in Hyderabad’s energetic HiTech City, her office is part workstation; part gym (there’s an elliptical trainer in the corner); part tea brewery; part apothecary; part library; part gallery — and every bit wonderful.”
Where Her Journey with Tea Began
“My love for tea began at home,” Anu says. “My parents were both chai lovers. My mom has her very own recipe for masala chai which consists of cardamom, ginger, pepper, javitri, nutmeg, and cinnamon. She also introduced tulsi and brahmi during winters, and this probably nudged me along my tea trajectory. Dad appealed to the nerd in me by telling us about its properties and how this would be good for memory. Sadly, dad left us 4 years ago but his love for various teas continues with me.”
Genomics and the Diet
“My Genomepatri revealed that I have a high risk for diabetes, and a few other skin-related issues. There were obesity markers as well,” she explains. After consulting with the genetic counsellor, Anu decided to rethink her dietary habits — removing milk and grains gradually, focusing on dals, vegetables, nuts, and yoghurt, and keeping a very light dinner of soup, fruits, or buttermilk by 7:30pm.
“Changing my diet and fitness habits needed the introduction of positive rituals that could evolve into habits over time. It’s not that I’m starving myself in any form, but it’s about bringing together what I like and what really works for me.” — Anu Acharya, CEO, MapmyGenome
Her biggest dietary challenge is her fondness for chocolate and desserts, which she hasn’t been able to change — so she does indulge occasionally. Her favourite diet fix is omelettes, especially exciting variations.
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