Superfoods To Keep You Super Fit During The Monsoon
Superfoods To Keep You Super Fit During The Monsoon
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As much as we enjoy the monsoon, it is at this time when the humidity levels in the atmosphere are the highest which makes us susceptible to infections from virus and bacteria resulting in improper digestion and decreased immune activity. It is thus essential to pay attention to our dietary choices and ensure that our bodies receive the nourishment they need to maintain immunity levels to fight infections effectively.
This season is the perfect time to embrace the goodness of superfoods that nourish our bodies as well as help us stay fit and healthy. They not only provide us with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants but also help us in relishing warm aromatic foods in monsoon rains. Consuming them ensures that you are on the right track to stay fit and healthy. From the forest-sourced goodness of honey to the crunchiness of fox nuts, and the versatility of oats, millets, and amla, these superfoods may prepare you for infections, and allergies by strengthening your immunity.
Dr Shilpa Vora, Chief R&D Officer, Marico Ltd, unveils and explores the treasures of nature that can support your wellbeing during the monsoon.
Forest-Sourced Honey: Nature’s Sweet Elixir
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Honey, especially when sourced from forests, is an incredibly beneficial food that offers numerous health benefits. Forest-sourced honey is a natural substitute for refined sugar, rich in antioxidants, and when included as part of a reduced calorie diet, has shown to help manage weight. It is power packed with essential nutrients that can boost your immune system and protect against seasonal ailments. During the monsoons, when infections are rampant, honey helps in maintaining immunity, acts as a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent, aiding in the prevention of cough, cold and digestive issues. It can be consumed in warm water with lemon or incorporated into herbal teas and makes for a seamless fit into your immunity-boosting recipes.
Fox Nuts (Makhanas): Crunchy Powerhouses Of Nutrients
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Also known as Makhanas, fox nuts have gained popularity as a healthy snacking option. These popped lotus seeds being high in fibre, make an ideal choice for weight management. Additionally, fox nuts are a good source of protein, minerals like magnesium and zinc, and antioxidants. Their anti-inflammatory properties can help improve skin and bone health. With its versatility in culinary applications, makhana can be a valuable addition to your balanced diet, offering a variety of flavours such as cheesy onion and masala to elevate the taste in your dishes alongside providing nutrition during the monsoon season and beyond. Enjoy them roasted or in various recipes such as makhana curry or kheer as a nutritious and filling monsoon treat.
Oats: Nutrient-Rich Whole Grain
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Oats are a versatile and nutritious supergrain that should be a staple part of the diet, especially during the monsoon season. They are rich in soluble fibre, which helps regulate cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Incorporating oats, into your regular diet can help manage weight, reduce risk of hypertension, and diabetes. It helps in sustained release of energy, keeping you fuller for longer, and is packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. A warm bowl of oatmeal with nuts, seeds and honey can be a comforting and nourishing breakfast option during the rainy season. Owing to its versatility you can experiment and add it to both your sweet and savory oat recipes like oats pancake, vegetable upma or oats dosa for a healthier twist.
Amla: The Vitamin C Powerhouse
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Amla, also known as the Indian gooseberry, is a superfood that offers a myriad of health benefits. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, amla helps strengthen the immune system, helping you fight off seasonal infections. It aids in digestion, promotes healthy skin and hair, and acts as a natural detoxifier for the body. During the monsoons, when allergies and respiratory issues are common, consuming amla can provide relief due to its anti-inflammatory properties. You can consume it raw, as a juice, or even as a part of chutneys and pickles.
Millets: The Ancient Grains
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Millets, are a powerhouse of nutrition that can help you stay fit and healthy during the monsoon season. These small grains are packed with essential nutrients such as fibre, iron, magnesium, and B-vitamins, which are beneficial for your overall well-being. Millets have a low glycemic index, which means that they are digested and absorbed slowly, providing a sustained release of energy and thus, help regulate spikes in blood sugar levels. Their high fibre content promotes healthy digestion, by managing common digestive issues that may arise during the monsoons. Additionally, millets support weight management by keeping you satiated for longer periods, reducing the temptation for unhealthy snacking. With their immune supporting properties and nutrient density, millets are an excellent addition to your monsoon diet, keeping you fit, energised and nourished.