Benefits of Millets: A Beginner’s Guide
Discovering the Benefits of Millets: A Beginner’s Guide
The popularity of millets as a superfood is growing at a remarkable pace among health-conscious individuals worldwide. These tiny grains have been essential in several ancient civilizations, like in the Indus Valley and Africa, for thousands of years. However, modern society has overlooked the nutritional significance of the common millet. Luckily, people are beginning to uncover the many health benefits of consuming millets.
Millets are gluten-free and have high nutritional value, earning them the title of a superfood. They are closely related to pearl millet, sorghum, and maize, known as coarse cereals that produce yield in unfavorable weather conditions, unlike rice and wheat. It is high in dietary fiber, minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, and vitamins like B and E.
Millets are easy to digest, and they are low in saturated fat, making them a useful food item for those who are intolerant to lactose or gluten. Millets can also help stabilize blood sugar levels in the body, making them an ideal food item for people with diabetes. They have a low glycemic index, which allows the sugar to be slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, an essential factor in diabetes.
Millets are perfect for weight loss and healthy weight management. The low-calorie composition of millets makes them an ideal substitute for rice in a healthy diet. The high fiber content of millets is what makes them perfect for promoting satiety and reducing appetite, making it easier for people to adhere to a low-calorie diet.
Millets are incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways. They can be used as a breakfast porridge, added in soups or salads, and even used as a flour substitute for baking bread, pancakes, and muffins. Millets are easy to cook and can be prepared in various styles to suit different taste palettes.
In conclusion, adding millets to your diet is an ideal way to improve your overall well-being. These little grains pack a powerful nutritional punch and offer excellent benefits for optimal health, including weight loss management, improved digestion, and reduced risks of chronic illnesses. A beginner’s guide to millets will set you on the right path to harness the many benefits of these amazing also known as ‘miracle grains’.
What are millets?
Millets are a group of small-seeded grasses that are grown all over the world. They have been consumed for thousands of years and are known for their diverse nutritional benefits.
Why should you consider adding millets to your diet?
There are numerous health benefits associated with consuming millets. They are high in fiber, protein, and essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Additionally, millets are gluten-free and have a low glycemic index, making them an excellent option for those with celiac disease or diabetes.
How to cook millets?
Millets are versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways. They can be boiled, steamed, or roasted, and used to make porridges, salads, soups, and even baked goods. To cook millets, it is important to first rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
The different types of millets
There are many different types of millets, each with its unique taste and nutritional profile. Some common types include foxtail millet, finger millet, pearl millet, and proso millet. It is important to experiment with different types of millets and find ones that best suit your taste and nutritional needs.
Where to find millets?
Millets are becoming increasingly popular and can be found in most health food stores, as well as online retailers. They are also commonly used in regional cuisines and can be found in specialty grocery stores catering to those cuisines.
Tips for incorporating millets into your diet
One easy way to incorporate millets into your diet is by using them as a substitute for rice or other grains in your favorite dishes. You can also experiment with different recipes and cuisines that traditionally use millets, such as Indian or African cuisine.
The environmental benefits of millets
Millets are ecologically sound crops that are well-suited to sustainable agriculture. They require minimal water and nutrients to grow, meaning they can be grown in areas where other crops can’t, and they are also resistant to pests and diseases. Additionally, millets are used as animal feed, thereby reducing the demand for feed crops such as corn and soybeans that require large amounts of water and fertilizer to grow.
Conclusion
In conclusion, millets are an excellent addition to any diet due to their numerous health benefits, versatility, and sustainability. By following the tips outlined in this beginner’s guide, you can begin to incorporate millets into your diet and enjoy all the benefits they have to offer.
Summary
Summarize this content to 100 words The popularity of millets as a superfood is growing at a remarkable pace among health-conscious individuals worldwide. These tiny grains have been essential in several ancient civilizations, like in the Indus Valley and Africa, for thousands of years. However, modern society has overlooked the nutritional significance of the common millet. Luckily, people are beginning to uncover the many health benefits of consuming millets.
Millets are gluten-free and have high nutritional value, earning them the title of a superfood. They are closely related to pearl millet, sorghum, and maize, known as coarse cereals that produce yield in unfavorable weather conditions, unlike rice and wheat. It is high in dietary fiber, minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, and vitamins like B and E.
Millets are easy to digest, and they are low in saturated fat, making them a useful food item for those who are intolerant to lactose or gluten. Millets can also help stabilize blood sugar levels in the body, making them an ideal food item for people with diabetes. They have a low glycemic index, which allows the sugar to be slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, an essential factor in diabetes.
Millets are perfect for weight loss and healthy weight management. The low-calorie composition of millets makes them an ideal substitute for rice in a healthy diet. The high fiber content of millets is what makes them perfect for promoting satiety and reducing appetite, making it easier for people to adhere to a low-calorie diet.
Millets are incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways. They can be used as a breakfast porridge, added in soups or salads, and even used as a flour substitute for baking bread, pancakes, and muffins. Millets are easy to cook and can be prepared in various styles to suit different taste palettes.
In conclusion, adding millets to your diet is an ideal way to improve your overall well-being. These little grains pack a powerful nutritional punch and offer excellent benefits for optimal health, including weight loss management, improved digestion, and reduced risks of chronic illnesses. A beginner’s guide to millets will set you on the right path to harness the many benefits of these amazing also known as ‘miracle grains’.
Types of Millets and Their Unique Benefits
Understanding the Different Types of Millets and Their Unique Benefits
Embracing a wholesome and well-balanced diet is a fundamental aspect of leading a healthy lifestyle. In this pursuit, exploring diverse food options can be both fascinating and rewarding. While grains like rice and wheat have long dominated our plates, a new contender is gaining popularity in the culinary world: millets. These ancient grains, traditionally consumed in various regions across the globe, are now making a notable comeback due to their exceptional nutritional content and versatility in various dishes. Let’s embark on a delightful journey to understand the different types of millets and discover the unique benefits they bring to our tables.
You may wonder, what exactly are millets? Well, millets are small-seeded grasses that have been cultivated for centuries owing to their resilience and adaptability to diverse climatic conditions. What distinguishes millets is their incredible nutritional profile. Bursting with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, millets can contribute significantly to our daily nutrient requirements. Moreover, their gluten-free nature makes them an excellent choice for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, broadening the scope of inclusion in various diets.
The world of millets is quite extensive, encompassing a wide array of varieties, each offering its distinct set of flavors and textures. Foxtail millet, for instance, is a popular choice known for its delicate grain size and nutty taste. It can be cooked as a pilaf, added to soups, or ground into flour for baking delectable treats. On the other hand, pearl millet, also known as bajra, is well-suited for creating hearty porridges or scrumptious rotis. Every single millet variety holds its own charm and culinary potential, elevating your culinary experiences to a whole new level.
Aside from their incredible taste and versatility, millets have been praised for their numerous health benefits. These ancient grains are packed with essential nutrients, including antioxidants that help fight off harmful free radicals in our bodies. Additionally, the high fiber content found in millets aids digestion, regulates blood sugar levels, and promotes a healthy heart. Moreover, millets have been shown to have a lower glycemic index compared to refined grains, making them an ideal choice for those aiming to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
What truly sets millets apart is their impact on environmental sustainability. These resilient crops require minimal water usage and are naturally pest-resistant, reducing the need for harmful pesticides. By including millets in our diets, we can contribute to a more eco-friendly world, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing our carbon footprint. So, not only are millets beneficial for our health, but they also pave the way towards a greener future.
As we journey through the fascinating world of millets, it is important to note that incorporating them into our diets does not require a drastic overhaul of our current eating habits. Millets can seamlessly blend into familiar dishes, enhancing both their taste and nutritional value. By diversifying our grain options and embracing the goodness of millets, we embark on a path towards holistic well-being, nourishing ourselves while fostering a more sustainable planet.
So, join us on this captivating exploration of millets, as we delve into their diverse types, unique benefits, and mouthwatering culinary possibilities. Get ready to step outside your culinary comfort zone and discover the wonders these ancient grains have in store for you.
The Importance of Millets in a Healthy Diet
Millets have gained considerable attention in recent times, and for good reason. These ancient grains have been consumed for thousands of years and are known for their exceptional nutritional benefits. They are naturally gluten-free, making them a popular choice for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Millets are packed with essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet.
Moreover, millets are highly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, making them a great substitute for refined grains. They have a mild nutty flavor and a pleasant texture, adding depth to any meal. Incorporating millets into your diet not only diversifies your nutrient intake but also promotes sustainable agriculture, as millets require less water and resources to grow compared to other cereal crops.
Finger Millet – A Nutritional Powerhouse
Among the different types of millets, finger millet, also known as Ragi, stands out for its exceptional nutritional profile. This grain is a rich source of calcium, making it a vital dietary component for those at risk of osteoporosis and other bone-related diseases. It also contains significant amounts of iron, making it an excellent choice for combating anemia and improving overall blood circulation.
Finger millet is also high in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and preventing constipation. It has a low glycemic index, meaning it releases sugar gradually into the bloodstream, making it ideal for individuals with diabetes or those wanting to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. With its myriad of health benefits, incorporating finger millet into your diet can greatly enhance your overall well-being.
Pearl Millet – A Nutrient-Dense Grain
Pearl millet, commonly referred to as Bajra, is another millet variety that offers numerous health advantages. It is a rich source of essential minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium, which play a crucial role in maintaining bone health, muscle function, and overall vitality.
In addition to its mineral content, pearl millet is a good source of energy due to its high carbohydrate content. These complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy release, making it an ideal grain for athletes or those needing a long-lasting source of energy. Pearl millet is also known for its high protein content, making it an excellent plant-based protein option for vegetarians and vegans.
Foxtail Millet – An Ideal Grain for Weight Management
Foxtail millet, also known as Kakum, is a popular choice for those looking to manage their weight effectively. This millet variety has a relatively low calorie content and is an excellent source of dietary fiber. The high fiber content helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing the urge to overeat and aiding in weight loss.
In addition to its weight management benefits, foxtail millet is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against harmful free radicals. It is also a good source of B-vitamins, promoting optimal brain function, energy production, and overall well-being. Including foxtail millet in your diet can be an effective way to support a healthy weight while ensuring your body receives essential nutrients.
Barnyard Millet – A Heart-Healthy Choice
Barnyard millet, also known as Sanwa, is a nutrient-dense millet variety that offers several cardiovascular benefits. This grain is rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress within the body. By doing so, barnyard millet can help safeguard against heart diseases and other chronic illnesses.
Barnyard millet is also a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in managing cholesterol levels. Increased fiber intake helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels, commonly known as “bad” cholesterol, promoting a healthy heart. Additionally, this millet variety is low in fat, making it an ideal choice for individuals watching their fat consumption.
Kodo Millet – Enhancing Digestive Health
Kodo millet, also called Varagu, is a millet variety that offers numerous digestive health benefits. This grain is rich in fiber, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing gastrointestinal issues such as constipation. The high fiber content also aids in maintaining a healthy weight as it keeps you satiated for longer periods.
Kodo millet is known to have high antioxidant properties, protecting the body against oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, it is an excellent source of essential minerals such as manganese and phosphorus, which contribute to overall bone health and strength. By incorporating kodo millet into your diet, you can support digestive wellness and enhance your overall health.
Lets make a new category of Indian Millets. Listed down few millets under this category: Little Millet, Proso Millet, and Browntop Millet
Little millet, proso millet, and browntop millet are lesser-known yet highly nutritious millets that deserve attention and inclusion in our diets. Little millet, also known as Samai, is a rich source of B-vitamins, which help maintain healthy brain function, improve metabolism, and boost energy levels.
Proso millet, also called Barri, is a millet variety abundant in dietary fiber and high-quality protein. These properties make it ideal for individuals looking to manage their weight while maintaining muscle mass and promoting healthy digestion.
Browntop millet, commonly known as Korale, is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium. It offers several health benefits, including improved bone health and increased red blood cell production. These millet varieties provide a unique set of nutrients, making them valuable additions to a varied and wholesome diet.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of millets and their unique benefits is crucial in incorporating them into our diets. From the nutrient-rich finger millet to the weight management advantages of foxtail millet, each millet variety offers distinct health advantages. By embracing millets in our meals, we can enhance our overall well-being while promoting sustainable farming practices.
Summary
Millets, small-seeded grasses, are gaining popularity in the culinary world due to their nutritional content and versatility. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a great addition to any diet. Millets are gluten-free, making them suitable for those with sensitivities. There are various types of millets, each offering distinct flavors and textures that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are also praised for their health benefits, such as aiding digestion and regulating blood sugar levels. Millets are environmentally friendly, requiring minimal water and pesticides. By incorporating millets into our diets, we can promote sustainability. By diversifying our grain options and embracing millets, we can improve our well-being and contribute to a greener future.
Discover the wonders of cooking with millets
Discover the wonders of cooking with millets
Millets are a group of small-seeded grains that grow to be tall and sturdy in semi-arid regions. They have been grown for centuries and form the primary food source for millions of people across Asia and Africa. Millets also offer a rich reserve of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that boost health while also aiding in weight loss. But one hidden benefit of millets that’s often overlooked is the exploration of millets in the kitchen. By experimenting with the variety of textures and flavors that millets offer, you can create an endless array of delectable, healthy, and sustainable dishes.
There is no denying that cooking with millets is a revelation. The diversity of these grains allows you to play around with different combinations and cooking methods, resulting in unique and exciting dishes that you can savor with every bite. From breakfast porridges, soups, stews, salads, and desserts to flours, snacks, and more, millets are extremely versatile, making them a must-have ingredient in your kitchen. For the adventurous cook, millets offer a world of possibilities that can be explored endlessly.
Millets offer a wide range of flavor profiles, from earthy and nutty to grassy and sweet, making them an appropriate choice of ingredient for any cuisine, be it Indian, Asian, or Western. Millets can stand on their own in simple preparations, such as porridge or as a side dish, or can be used interchangeably with other grains, such as rice, quinoa, bulgur, and barley, for more complex preparations. By embracing the diversity of millets, you can elevate your cooking skills and impress your guests with innovative and healthy dishes that are both delicious and sustainable.
Cooking with millets is not just about exploring new flavor profiles; it is also about promoting a healthy lifestyle. Millets are incredibly nutrient-dense, containing high fiber, protein, vitamins B and E, and minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Additionally, millets have a low glycemic index, which means they help regulate blood sugar levels, making them a boon to people with diabetes or obesity. By incorporating millets into your diet, you can improve your overall health and well-being while still enjoying delicious food – what’s not to love about that?
In addition to their culinary and health benefits, millets also have a social and environmental impact. Millets are drought-resistant crops, which makes them suitable for cultivation in areas with low water availability. They are resilient against pests and diseases, making them a low-maintenance crop that requires minimum pesticides or fertilizers compared to other grains such as rice and wheat. By incorporating millets into your diet, you can support sustainable farming practices, reduce your carbon footprint, and contribute to a healthier planet.
In conclusion, cooking with millets is a fantastic way to elevate your culinary repertoire while also promoting a healthy lifestyle and a sustainable future. With the vast array of flavors and textures they offer, millets provide endless opportunities for experimentation and innovation in the kitchen. So why not take the first step towards discovering the wonders of cooking with millets today? Your taste buds – and your body – will thank you!
Introduction:
Cooking with millets has become an increasing trend nowadays. Due to its exceptional nutritional benefits, millets have been gaining immense popularity among the health-conscious people. In this article, we’ll explore the wonders of cooking with millets.
What are millets?
Millets are small-seeded grasses that are similar to rice and wheat in appearance. They are gluten-free and offer various health benefits. Millets come in different colors, such as white, gray, red, and yellow, and have a unique flavor and texture. They are used in a variety of dishes ranging from porridges to snacks.
Health benefits of cooking with millets
Millets are a rich source of essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. They are also high in fiber and antioxidants, which help in preventing chronic diseases like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Additionally, millets are known for their low glycemic index, which means they keep blood sugar levels stable, making them an ideal food for people with diabetes.
Types of millets to cook with
There are several types of millets available in the market, including finger millet, pearl millet, sorghum, foxtail millet, and many more. Each millet has a unique nutritional profile, texture, and flavor. For instance, pearl millet and sorghum have a mild flavor, while finger millet and foxtail millet have a nutty taste.
Cooking with millets: Tips and tricks
Cooking with millets is easy and straightforward. You can use millets in various dishes such as kheer, pulao, and dosa. Pre-soaking the millets before cooking helps in reducing the cooking time and improves the digestibility of millets. Additionally, you can also roast the millets before cooking to enhance their flavor.
Millets as a substitute for other grains
Millets can be a great substitute for other grains like rice and wheat. Due to their remarkable nutritional profile and low glycemic index, millets are an ideal food for people with gluten intolerance, diabetes, and other chronic health conditions.
Delicious millet recipes to try at home
There are numerous delicious recipes that you can make using millets, such as millet upma, millet salad, and millet khichdi. These recipes are not only healthy but also easy to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Conclusion
Cooking with millets is a wonderful way to enjoy delicious and nutritious food. With its significant health benefits and versatile uses, millets are a great addition to any diet. Try adding some millets to your next meal and experience the wonders of this diverse and healthful grain.
Summary
Millets are a group of small-seeded grains that have been grown for centuries across Asia and Africa, forming the primary food source of millions. They offer a rich source of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, and are a great aid in weight loss while also supporting overall health. In addition to their health benefits, cooking with millets offers culinary benefits, as they are diverse and offer a wide range of flavor profiles, making them an appropriate addition to any cuisine. Millets are also a sustainable crop, requiring low water and pesticide use, and incorporating them into your diet can support sustainable farming practices and reduce your carbon footprint.
Benefits of Eating Millets Everyday
Today’s generation is quite obsessed with street food and popular fast-food chains. These serve delectable food items that are as tasty as they are unhealthy. This has made staying in shape and getting enough nutrition into our bodies a definite task. Once you realize just what the food is doing to your body, you will feel compelled to cut the carbs and trans fat from your diet to eat healthily. But where should you start?
Millets are an excellent idea if you wish to start eating healthily. These grains come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Moreover, each grain of millet has its very own health benefit. You can find them readily in the market throughout the year, and their cultivation is not dependent on the weather. But what benefits do they have for the human body, and why should you consume them on a daily basis? Let us find out!
Packed With Nutrition
The best thing about Millets is that they are filled with nutrients such as magnesium, manganese, copper, and phosphorous. These nutrients are vital to leading healthy lives. Therefore, if you consume a balanced diet of millets daily packed with nutritional properties, you can eradicate a number of potentially risky health problems.
Less Calorie Count
Millets are a great idea for people trying to lose weight due to their low-calorie count. They aid in weight loss, and if you are a calorie-conscious individual, you might want to try millets. Despite being low in calories, they help in keeping your energy levels up throughout the day, and you won’t feel starved constantly.
Enhances Immunity
Immunity is an essential weapon against falling sick. If your immunity is weak, you will be more at risk of experiencing health issues from time to time. To build immunity, the body needs a good amount of protein. Millet is a superfood that has protein aplenty. Therefore, they can help in maintaining your body’s immunity with consistent consumption.
Satiates Hunger
Carbs such as wheat and rice down break down easily on consumption, which leaves us hungry soon after a meal. This is also one of the main reasons why people binge eat or look for unhealthy food to satiate their hunger. This is precisely why millets are such a good idea. They are harder in nature and take time to break down in the digestive system. Hence, you feel full for longer.
Reduces Sugar Levels
Millets have a low glycemic index, which is why they are perfect for preventing diabetes in people. They also help in keeping the condition under control for people who have Type-2 diabetes.
Resolves Heart Issues
Finally, you can count on millets to resolve health problems for you. They are packed with essential fats that our body just loves. This, in turn, helps in the prevention of an excess deposit of fat over muscles. Therefore, you can avoid a number of scary health issues such as heart strokes and high cholesterol.
Final Words
As is evident, millets can not only keep your heart healthy but also help you avoid a number of unpleasant lifestyle diseases
Why Should You Eat Siridhanya/Millets ?
Filled with fiber, millets are great at making you feel full.
Relish the nutrition of millet with these delicious Organic Unpolished Millets. A guilt free indulgence!
Millets are not only nutritious but also very delicious. The millet is gluten free and rich in essential nutrients. Millets are a rich source of natural fiber, when compared to other grains.
Millet contains about 9 to 12.5% fiber due to which they serves as medicine for dealing with life style diseases. Lower incidence of cardiovascular diseases, duodenal ulcer and hyperglycemia (diabetes) are reported among those who regularly consume millets.
Is Cold-Pressed Oil Better than Refined Oil?
Health is the most precious treasure we possess. To live a healthy life, we must eat healthily, organic and chemical-free. Oil is the primary ingredient in our food; thus, we need to be careful while choosing it.
Oilseeds can be naturally pressed to extract oil. May it be sesame seeds, coconut, groundnut, or olive. Read on to get the difference between the two types of edible oils.
What are refined oils or hot-pressed oils?
Refined oils are extracted using high heat. Also known as hot-pressed oils, refined oils are made by first cleaning them, then grinding them at high speed, which can generate heat up to 200°C, and using some harmful chemicals, which finally gives us the oil. Refined oils include all kinds of oils used for edible as well as technological purposes.
Several oils like sunflower, palm, soybean, cottonseed, and rice bran, among others, were required to be sold only as refined oils as these oils were produced by the solvent extraction process and may contain solvent residues. However, the refining process is done as per the guidelines issued by the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI).
What are cold-pressed oils?
Cold-pressed oils refer to oils obtained through pressing fruit or seeds with a modern steel press. Cold-pressed oils are crushed slowly to extract oil from them. Low heat is generated during the process, which helps in retaining the nutrients and the flavors.
Traditionally, words like “Chekku,” “Ghani,” and “Kolhu” oil were used in India to describe cold-pressed oil. A long cylindrical instrument, known as ‘Ghani,’ was used to extract oil from oilseeds in olden times.
Difference between the two oils:
The cold-pressed oils have more excellent nutritional value, higher Omega 3 (anti-inflammatory) fatty acids, and more antioxidants. Most cold-pressed oils are rich in vitamin E, which has anti-inflammatory and healing properties. They are also rich sources of oleic acid that help boost your immune system. When cooked on low heat, all these oils are the champion choice.
On the contrary, the refined oil-making process involves filtration through various unwanted and hazardous chemicals and heat, making the oils look light and shiny. This mechanized process makes the oilseed devoid of natural organic ingredients that our body needs daily. Refined oil has a lot of fat and is vacant of nutrition.
Species of Cold-pressed oils:
Sesame oil is an edible vegetable oil derived from sesame seeds. Besides being used as cooking oil, it is used as a flavor enhancer in many cuisines, having a distinctive nutty aroma and taste. The oil is one of the earliest-known crop-based oils.
Organic Sunflower oil is made by pressing the seeds of sunflower plants harvested organically without any chemicals or pesticides. Sunflower oil is the standard cooking oil used in Indian kitchens.
Virgin coconut oil (VCO) is extracted from fresh coconut milk and is 100% natural. It is unrefined, unbleached, and cold-pressed. Unlike other coconut oil extracted through heat, VCO does not possess that latik odor but the fresh aroma of coconut oil.
Coconut oil, or copra oil, is an edible oil extracted from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts harvested from the coconut palm. It has various applications. The high saturated fat content is slow to oxidize and, thus, resistant to rancidification, lasting up to six months at 24 degrees Celcius without spoiling.
Pure organic oil has its typical pungent aroma, yellowish color, and intense flavor. Indians love to eat deep-fried, stir-fried and sauté meals, for which they have been using mustard oils for centuries. Moreover, mustard oil’s fats do not break up while heating, preserving its natural fat content.
Peanut oil, also known as groundnut oil or Arachis oil, is derived from peanuts. The oil has a strong peanut flavor and aroma. It is often used in American, Chinese, South Asian, and Southeast Asian cuisine, both for general cooking and roasted oil, for added flavor.
In addition to the above health benefits, the shelf life is low as no preservatives are used. The seeds used for extraction are of the best quality, and thus the price is comparatively higher than refined oils as less oil is extracted. But compromising on health shouldn’t be an option at all. What do you say?
Why choose organic Food over Conventional
There is so much (in)credible science out there that demonstrates why organic food, fiber and farming is a healthy option for people and the planet, that looks outside the box for sustainable solutions to agronomic challenges, and that highlights the organic difference.
Health Benefits of Organic products
Organic products reduce public health risks to farm workers, their families, and consumers by minimizing their exposure to toxic and persistent chemicals on the farm and in food, the soil in which they work and play, the air they breathe, and the water they drink. Children are especially vulnerable to pesticides. Thus, offering organic food and fiber products into the marketplace gives parents the option of choosing products produced without the use of these toxins.
Not only does organic production help reduce public health risks, mounting evidence shows that food grown organically are rich in nutrients, such as Vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, with less exposure to nitrates and pesticide residues in organically grown fruits, vegetables, and grains when compared to conventionally grown products.
While proving health benefits of eating a particular food is a complex question to answer, evidence is mounting that there are some healthier nutritional profiles linked to consuming various organic products. For instance, a research article published in December 2013 in PLOS ONE found that organic whole milk contained significantly higher concentrations of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids compared to milk from cows raised on conventionally managed dairy farms. Meanwhile, a research article published in the journal Food Chemistry found organic soybeans have a healthier nutritional profile from conventionally grown or genetically modified Roundup Ready soybeans.
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.