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The Healthiest Ingredients in Indian Cuisine
Indian food is healthy, not only because it’s often homecooked with natural ingredients but also because the ingredients themselves are packed with health benefits.
India has one of the world’s wealthiest and most ancient cuisines, and it has immense regional variations. There’s no doubt there’s an Indian specialty for every palate. However, Indian food is more than delicious and vibrant; in most cases, it is incredibly healthy. Indians have known about the health benefits of their most widely used ingredients for ages, and now, science has backed many of these claims.
Indian food is healthy, not only because it’s often homecooked with natural ingredients but also because the ingredients themselves are packed with health benefits. These are some of the healthiest ingredients in Indian cuisine.
1. Lentils
The immense variety of dal, or lentils, in the Indian kitchen, is perhaps its healthiest ingredient, along with other legumes, such as kidney and mung beans. Lentils offer vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber, but their most notable contribution to wellness is their plant-based protein. By consuming lentils and other legumes and reducing the consumption of animal proteins, one can reduce the risk of heart disease and heart-related problems, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol buildup.
2. Turmeric
Curcumin, the bio-active ingredient in the colorful turmeric, has well-known health benefits. It is an anti-inflammatory that can also prevent chronic inflammation caused by free radicals in the bloodstream. Recent studies have shown that turmeric might even be beneficial in cancer treatment and could help prevent cancer in the first place.
3. Ginger and Garlic
This aromatic duo is often used as a flavor and aromatic base in various Indian dishes. Together, ginger and garlic add enormous health benefits to your diet. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that can aid in weight loss, manage arthritis and even reduce menstrual symptoms. In comparison, garlic improves cholesterol levels and may lower the risk of heart disease. Garlic might also reduce blood pressure, making it a well-rounded heart-healthy ingredient.
4. Chili Peppers
Not everyone can take the heat in India’s spiciest specialties, but there’s no doubt you’ll find excitement in every spoonful of food seasoned with capsicum pepper plants. Chili peppers have high amounts of Vitamin C that can strengthen the immune system. However, the most exciting element in hot peppers is capsaicin, which gives them a piquant flavor. Capsaicin can aid with heartburn and acid reflux and might help weight loss by boosting the metabolism.
5. Cumin seeds
Ground cumin seeds are widely used in the Indian kitchen, as their earthy, aromatic flavor enhances dishes and brings out the flavor in other ingredients. Cumin has interesting health benefits, primarily for its high antioxidant content. However, studies have shown that the seeds can positively affect our bodies in other ways. For example, cumin might have anti-cancer properties and they have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects. Consuming cumin regularly can even regulate blood sugar levels and help lower cholesterol.
This is just the beginning
Indian food relies on myriad ingredients from a variety of climates. Some were brought from abroad, while others are native. There’s no doubt that the Indian diet is balanced and varied, and it’s no secret that it is a healthy alternative for people worldwide, from an immense selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes to meals prepared with healthy spices, Indian food is at the forefront of wellness in terms of food.
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