5 regular kitchen items that are actually superfoods

We often overlook the nutritional powerhouses hiding in plain sight right in our kitchens. Forget exotic berries and expensive powders; some of the most potent superfoods are readily available and surprisingly familiar.

Lakshita Jain, a certified clinical dietitian and founder of NUTR, Delhi, sheds light on 5 such hidden gems:

1. Moringa Leaves

Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, moringa leaves are particularly beneficial for women’s health. They can help regulate irregular periods, support conception, and manage PCOS symptoms.

How to include them:

Powder: Dry the leaves and grind them into a powder. Take 1 spoonful daily mixed with water or yogurt.
Dal: Add fresh or dried moringa leaves to your dals for a nutritional boost.
Sabzi: Create flavourful vegetable dishes incorporating moringa leaves.

2. Sesame Seeds

These tiny seeds are rich in calcium, healthy fats, and magnesium, making them beneficial for joint health, reducing inflammation, and managing arthritis.

How to include them:

Roasted: Simply roast sesame seeds and enjoy them as a snack or sprinkle them on salads and vegetables. Aim for 1 tablespoon daily.

3. Mamra Badam:

Native to Kashmir, this almond variety boasts higher levels of volatile oil, maximising its health benefits. It’s excellent for brain health, heart health, and skin health.

How to include them:

Soaked: Unlike regular almonds, mamra badam must be soaked overnight to remove a natural coating. Consume them soaked or add them to smoothies and yogurts.

Boil a pinch of turmeric with a pinch of black pepper in water or milk. (Source: File/ Rep)

4. Curcumin

Found in raw turmeric, curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory properties and can regulate blood sugar levels, reduce stress, and boost immunity.

How to include it:

Golden Milk: Boil a pinch of turmeric with a pinch of black pepper in water or milk. This simple concoction allows for better absorption of curcumin.

5. Tulsi

Beyond its spiritual significance, tulsi leaves offer a treasure trove of health benefits. They can aid in weight management, manage blood sugar levels, and reduce body pain.

How to include it:

Herbal Tea: Boil tulsi leaves with other spices like turmeric, black pepper, ajwain, and cloves. Strain and enjoy this herbal tea with a squeeze of lemon.

Jain also offered some additional tips:

• Consult a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
• Remember, variety is key. While these superfoods offer valuable benefits, incorporate them into a balanced diet alongside other fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Experiment with different ways to include these ingredients in your meals to make them more enjoyable and sustainable.

So, step into your kitchen and unlock the hidden potential of these everyday superfoods!

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