The food you eat defines your emotional and physical well-being, which is why what you eat is so important. Experts think that the key to good health is often found in the kitchen, and that simply adding specific foods to your diet can greatly improve physical and mental well-being. From nutrient-dense and healthy lentils and flours to natural alternatives to calorie-heavy processed foods, kitchen shelves are brimming with goods that, when prepared correctly, are both healthy and delicious. Here are foods that have been consistently hailed as 'Gold' for Indians by several nutritionists and stars. They help with holistic nutrition and ensure overall physical and mental well-being.
1. Ragi
Ragi, a staple in south Indian households, is abundant in protein as well as vitamins C, B-Complex, and E, iron, and calcium, making it healthy for your hair and skin. Ragi is a delicious breakfast meal that also helps to naturally relax nerves and induce sleep. What's the best part? Ragi is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes and served to everyone from babies to adults, whether in the shape of baby cereal, steaming hot porridge, or delectable pancakes.
2. Coconut
Another commonly available superfood is coconut, which is high in nutrients whether consumed as coconut water, raw coconut, milk, or oil. Consuming coconut can help you boost your daily intake of micronutrients such as manganese, magnesium, copper, and potassium. Sipping coconut water may have the same impact as an anxiety-reducing exercise, and research suggests that coconut water may have an antidepressant effect.
3. Jaggery
A fantastic substitute for empty-calorie sweeteners like sugar. Jaggery or gur/gud, is high in nutritional content and contains a significant quantity of antioxidants and minerals. Jaggery is an ingredient that can be eaten raw or added to foods to enhance their flavour. Jaggery has excellent purifying capabilities for your entire body, particularly the liver and blood.
4. Nuts
Nuts are wonder foods that have been shown to be transforming both physical and mental health. You can include them in desserts or have a few after soaking them in water. Almonds and walnuts, in addition to helping brain function, are high in energy and make an excellent snack between meals. Similarly, pistachios promote brain and eye function and are beneficial to hair and skin health. Peanuts are also a wonderful snacking option and a nutritional powerhouse, with 17 grams of protein in half a cup.
5. Dates
Along with jaggery, the date fruit is an excellent diabetic meal. This lovely brown dry fruit is loaded with minerals such as potassium and antioxidants such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acid. Dates are high in fibre and easy to incorporate into recipes. They are also beneficial to brain health. Studies show that eating a lot of date palm fruits improves memory and learning while reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Dates and jaggery instant mixes can be used in place of sugar to sweeten foods and beverages while avoiding the health risks associated with sugar.
