(Pic Courtesy: Freepik)
Superfoods have the ability to provide health benefits. Ms Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head - South Zone, Dietetics, Nutrition And Dietetics, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket shares the indigenous superfoods that are locally available and are loaded with nutrients and have numerous health benefits.
To reap the benefits of these superfoods one has to reduce intake of processed and unhealthy foods. Include superfoods along with good nutrition for maximum benefit.
A staple in every household, curd is a superfood, due to its probiotic effects besides being an excellent source of protein and calcium. Gut microbiota plays an important role in gut health and probiotics found in foods like curd, help to improve gut health.
The Indian spices have been an integral part of the Indian Kitchen. Besides providing aroma and flavour, they are a bunch of nutrient-dense superfoods. Turmeric has curcumin which has anti-inflammatory properties. Just remember to use black pepper together, as peperine in black pepper helps release curcumin from the spice. Ginger, the spicy root is a traditional stomach soother and is anti-inflammatory too. Cinnamon and clove, common ingredients in curries lower cholesterol and improve insulin function.
Nuts like almonds are one of the most nutrient-dense superfoods around. Loaded with protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals, almonds pack a powerful nutrient punch. From heart health to weight management, diabetes and gut health, almonds benefit in so many ways.
Tiny superfood, seeds contain all nutrients in concentrated form. Seeds commonly consumed like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, melon seeds, flaxseeds, chia seeds and sesame seeds are high in good quality protein, contain heart-friendly fat and are loaded with vitamins and minerals.
Common Millets like bajra, jowar and ragi are superfoods having multiple health benefits. Millets being gluten-free are excellent for the gut. Loaded with fibre and proteins and other micronutrients like calcium, iron, millets are good for diabetics, heart-friendly and