5 Indian Superfoods
After listening to superfoods, we often think about fancy and exotic foods such as avocado, olive oil, kale, broccoli, berries, acacia seeds, etc. and overlook the fact that real superfoods can only be found in our kitchens and farms.
"Foods that are fully packed with nutrients, have numerous health benefits and are locally available in our market are considered superfoods."
In this modern era, society has forgotten about our naturally cultivated and locally accessible foods. They have shifted their priority to popular and exotic foods which are in the spotlight through the internet.
Similarly, the modern food practices which we have started following blindly from the internet are just outlined from Ayurveda and our ancient culture.
Qualities Of Superfoods -
- Foods that are cultivated and found locally in your area
- Foods that get easily stir up with other foods and also enrich the taste of our cultural and regional dishes
- Every part of the food is nutritive and has distinct health benefits
- Pocket friendly
- Suitable for all body types
- Rich in taste and micronutrients
Why include Superfoods?
It is very important to include seasonal fruit and vegetables in our diet because that is the time when we can avail its maximum benefits.
Incorporating superfoods in our diet at right time and in the right amount has many proven health benefits such as - - Weight loss
- Immunity boosting
- Good heart health
- Boosts metabolism
- Improve skin and hair
Here are my favourite 5 Indian superfoods that you should incorporate into your diet as soon as possible.
1. Coconut / Nariyal
- Coconut is very versatile and has exceptionally amazing health benefits. It improves heart health, promotes weight loss, fat burning, aids digestion, prevents ageing and improves hair texture.
- Coconut is rich in fibre, protein and good fats, and it also contains essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin B12, copper, manganese, selenium.
- It can be used in various ways such as chutney, tender coconut water, cooking oil, hair oil, coconut cream, coconut milk, coconut flour and sweets etc. It is also used in many cosmetic products such as lip balm, makeup remover, lotions, etc.
2. Drumstick / Moringa Tree
- Every part of the moringa plant is edible (flowers, root, stem, leaves) and has several therapeutic benefits. It is said that Moringa is a natural blood purifier and detoxifier. It possesses antiviral, anti-ulcer and antioxidant properties. Incorporating it in the diet helps in fighting against many chronic diseases, heart disease, liver and kidney disorders, hair and skin problems, diabetes, inflammation, etc.
- Moringa is rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, vitamin B, folate, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, etc.
It has 6-7 times more vitamin C than oranges and 4 times more iron than spinach, isn't it impressive?- You can incorporate moringa into your diet in diverse ways like moringa tea, soup, smoothie, powder, sambar etc. you can also make cookies, brownies, salad dressings.
3. Indian Gooseberry / Amla
- This small round sour fruit is widely found in India and has amazing culinary and health benefits even in Ayurveda.
- As it is rich in vitamin C, it helps in boosting immunity, improves hair and skin texture and also, promotes heart health and manages diabetes. Being rich in antioxidants and fibre it helps to reduce inflammation and digestive disorders.
- Amla is a rich source of dietary fibre, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B 6, manganese, potassium, etc. and it is widely used in India in the form of pickle, chutney, juice, powder, murabba.
4. Desi Ghee
- It is known as the goldmine of nutrients it has extremely incredible health benefits both internally and externally.
- It is a terrific source of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin D, E, A, K and omega 3 fatty acids.
- Desi ghee plays a prominent role in maintaining our overall physical and mental health. Consuming 2-4 Tbsp of ghee every day has many health benefits such as improves digestion, increase bone density, promotes heart health, insomnia, reduce the glycemic index, makes skin healthy and shiny, boosts fertility, etc. and also enhances the taste of food.
- Conjugated Linoleic acid (CLA) present in ghee helps to fight against many chronic problems such as obesity and high cholesterol levels.
- Due to its high smoking point among other cooking oils, it is most suitable for frying food.
5. Foxnuts / Makhana
- They have famously named lotus seeds in the market and are effortlessly accessible everywhere. They are the perfect snack loaded with lots of essential nutrients and energy.
- Foxnuts are rich in fibre, protein, antioxidants, magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, etc. and low in calories which makes them one of the best snacks for hypertensive and diabetic patients.
- Incorporating foxnuts in your diet has numerous health benefits such as it, improves digestion, promotes heart health, lowers blood sugar levels, prevents ageing, and helps in weight management.
So, when are you incorporating these superfoods into your diet?