Home-cooked food is great for health… Check these health benefits of home-cooked food!
Indian home-cooked food is known for its rich and diverse flavors, as well as its potential health benefits. One area in which Indian home-cooked food may be particularly beneficial for digestion. Here are some ways in which the digestive benefits of home-cooked food can be attributed to its ingredients and preparation methods:
1. Fermented foods
2. Spices
3. Fiber
4. Plant-based proteins
5. Slow cooking
6. Heart health
7. Weight management
8. Diabetes management
9. Cancer prevention
10. Potential to support a sustainable food system
11. Choose whole grains
12. Healthy cooking methods
13. Limit your intake of added sugars and sodium
14. Incorporate a variety of vegetables
1. Fermented foods
Indian cuisine often incorporates fermented foods such as dahi (yogurt), idli, dosa, and pickles. These foods contain beneficial bacteria that can help to improve digestion and boost the immune system.
2. Spices
Indian cooking is known for its use of a wide variety of spices, like Turmeric (Haldi),
Asafoetida (Hing), Black Pepper (Kali Mirch), Indian Red Chili (Lal Mirch), Garam Masala, Cumin (Jira), Mustard Seeds (Rai), Green Cardamom (Choti Ilayachi), Black Cardamom (Kali Ilayachi), Coriander, Cilantro, Ginger (Adarek), Garlic (Lahasun), Fenugreek (Methi), Mango Powder (Amchoor), Tej Patta, Cinnamon/Cassia Bark (Dalachini), Fennel (Saunf), Star Anise (Chakra Phul), Carom (Ajwain), Nutmeg (Jaiphal), Mace (Javitri), Cloves (Lavang), Curry leaves (Kadhipatta), etc.
Many of them have digestive benefits, for example, cumin and coriander are known to aid in digestion, while ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce bloating and improve digestion.
3. Fiber
Many Indian dishes are high in fiber, which is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps to bulk up stools, making them easier to pass through the intestines and reducing the risk of constipation.
4. Plant-based proteins
Many Indian dishes are based on plant-based proteins such as lentils, beans, and chickpeas, which can be easier to digest than animal proteins. These plant-based proteins also provide a good source of fiber, further supporting a healthy digestive system.
5. Slow cooking
Indian dishes are often slow-cooked, which can help to break down the nutrients and make them easier to digest. This is particularly beneficial for those who have trouble digesting certain foods or who have digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
6. Heart health
Many Indian dishes are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help to protect against heart disease. For example, turmeric, a spice commonly used in Indian cooking, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to lower the risk of heart disease.
7. Weight management
Indian dishes often include a balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied. This can be particularly helpful for those trying to manage their weight, as it may help to prevent overeating.
8. Diabetes management
Some studies have suggested that a diet rich in legumes and whole grains, both of which are common in Indian cuisine, may help to improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
9. Cancer prevention
Certain spices used in Indian cooking, such as turmeric and cumin, have been shown to have anticancer properties. Additionally, the use of spices and herbs in place of salt can help to reduce the risk of high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for certain types of cancer.
10. Potential to support a sustainable food system
Because many Indian dishes are plant-based, they can be a more environment-friendly choice compared to diets that rely heavily on animal protein. Plant-based diets have a lower carbon footprint and require fewer natural resources to produce, which can help to reduce the environmental impact of our food choices.
11. Choose whole grains
Opt for whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat roti instead of refined grains like white rice and bread. Whole grains are higher in fiber and nutrients and can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
12. Healthy cooking methods
Instead of deep-frying or sautéing, try grilling, baking, or roasting to cook your food. These methods require less oil and can help to reduce the calorie and fat content of your dishes.
13. Limit your intake of added sugars and sodium
Many store-bought Indian spice mixes and pre-made sauces can be high in added sugars and sodium. To reduce your intake of these ingredients, try making your own spice mixes at home or choose brands that have lower levels of added sugars and sodium.
14. Incorporate a variety of vegetables
Indian cuisine features a wide variety of vegetables, so be sure to include a variety in your dishes. Vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals and can help to add nutrients to your meals and helps with digestion.
It’s important to note that while Indian home-cooked food can offer many health benefits, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and to choose ingredients wisely. Some traditional Indian dishes can be high in calories and saturated fat, particularly if they are cooked in large amounts of oil or ghee (clarified butter). If you have any concerns about your health or specific dietary needs, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional.
Takeaway…
Overall, Indian home-cooked food can be a delicious and nutritious choice that can provide a range of health benefits, including support for digestion and overall wellness. As with any diet, it is important to consume a variety of nutrient-dense foods and to seek medical advice if you have any concerns about your health.
But, sometimes we cannot have such home cook food and healthy ingredients daily because of busy and outdoor schedules. Many of us live in a hostel or in PG, and always end up having outside food (most of the time unhealthy food). But here we have a solution: Myma, Ghar jaisa nahi, Ghar ka khana!
Myma is a mobile app, from where you can order purely home-cooked food. Food, which is full of healthy ingredients will keep you away from disease and will give your healthy life. So, don’t worry, if you are leaving far away from your mother and family, your Myma family is here to serve you healthy, tasty food daily. All you have to do is download the app and order!
