Stay Energized During the Festive Season: Include These Superfoods for a Boost!
As the festive season approaches, the allure of indulgent foods amid the glittering lights of Diwali brings immense joy. Festivals in India feel incomplete without a spread of delicious dishes adorning the dinner table. With the upcoming Diwali season packed with activities from cleaning to decorating, fatigue is inevitable. Amidst the exhaustion, decadent dishes serve as comforting saviors for our minds and hearts. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of the aftermath of our food choices. To curb mindless eating, consider swapping fried snacks for superfoods.
Unlocking the Nutritional Benefits of Superfoods
Superfoods are nutrient-dense dietary substances that offer maximum nutritional benefits with minimal calories. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, they nourish both body and mind when consumed in adequate amounts. Health expert Vikas Chawla, Founder and Director of Vedas Cure, notes that while superfoods are primarily plant-based, they can also include fish and certain dairy products. These foods contribute to internal wellness, promote health, and aid in disease prevention. A balanced diet rich in nutrients is essential for the body to function optimally, as it requires a specific calorie and nutrient intake to maintain fitness and health. Superfoods encompass fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts that boast high nutritional value. According to Ayurveda, an ancient medical system, certain foods rich in minerals can enhance immunity.
Kusum
In Sonave, tribals refer to it as Kusum, a wild, uncultivated fruit thriving in Maharashtra’s forests, as well as across India and Southeast Asia. This small plum-like fruit is brimming with energy and serves as a protein-rich snack. With its sweet-sour flavor profile, Kusum adds a playful twist to the palate.
Flax seeds
Flax seeds are champions of inner well-being, packing a nutritional punch in every spoonful. Just a single spoonful provides a wealth of carbs, protein, calories, fiber, Omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, iron, and more essential nutrients. With a high dietary fiber content, just a handful of flax seeds meets the daily recommended intake with 3 grams of fiber. Additionally, other seeds like chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, melon seeds, and lotus seeds offer their own unique nutritional properties.
Millets
Millets are packed with a plethora of nutrients, such as zinc, copper, vitamins, calcium, and antioxidants. They offer sustained energy and keep you feeling full throughout the day. Millets help regulate blood sugar levels, thanks to their high iron and calcium content, promoting healthy blood levels. Moreover, they support heart health, aid digestion, and contribute to weight loss goals.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a prevalent spice in Indian households, renowned for its antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory effects, which support healthy digestion. Its potent medicinal properties include combating infections and aiding tissue repair, effectively addressing daily fungal and bacterial threats.
In conclusion, superfoods encompass more than just omega-3 fatty acids or fiber-rich foods; they play a vital role in promoting overall well-being. However, excessive consumption of superfoods can have adverse effects. While incorporating superfoods into daily meals is beneficial, they should not be the sole dietary focus but rather part of a balanced diet to meet nutritional needs.