Navratra, the 9 day long celebration of Goddess Durga’s different incarnations, is among the most sacred festivities practiced in our country. With a vision to empower oneself with better willpower, people fast and pray to the deity for prosperity. During these days, people do not consume grains, pulses and determine to stay light on spices. However, many of us might not be aware that the foods that are consumed during these days are packed with nutrients.
Here are some of the commonly consumed foods and their health benefits
1 . Sabutdana (Tapioca)
-It is extracted from the root of tapioca plant.
-It is a rich source of protein, minerals and nutrients such as iron, calcium, folic acid and Vitamin B.
-Its rich nutritional profile helps in providing the body with the desired nutrients and supplements.
-It helps in fighting fatigue, keeps blood pressure under control, heals wounds, strengthens bones and muscles and prevents indigestion and constipation.
Ways To Use
-It is used to prepare khichdi, pakodas, tikkis, dishes and puddings during the navratra season.
2 . Kuttu Ka Atta (Buckwheat Flour)
-Enriched with body detoxifying properties, this flour is amongst the most commonly used ingredients in the Navratra.
-Though often it is prepared in the form of oily dishes, comparably it is low in calories and high in carbohydrates. Therefore it will not deprive you off energy.
-Devoid of saturated fats it also helps in the digestion.
Ways To Use
– It is used to prepare pajeeri, pakoras, tikki and poori during the navratre days. At times it is mixed with kuttu ka aata as well
3 . Singhara/ Paniphal (Water Chestnut)
-Singhara is a rich source of carbohydrates, nutrients such as potassium, zinc and vitamins such as Vitamin B and Vitamin E.
-Enriched with coolant properties, it promotes salivation and satiates thirst. Alike kuttu it is low on calories and fat.
-Additionally it also helps in the detoxification of the body. It is packed with medicinal properties and can be used for patients of jaundice, antiviral and antibacterial infections.
Ways To Use
It can be used as a flour to prepare different dishes such as pakoras, tikki, panjeeri and pooris.
4 . Makhana (Lotus Seeds)
-Owing to its several properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and nutritional profile, they are a rich source of protein, carbohydrate, fiber, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron and zinc.
-It has also been found to be a rich source of kaempferol (natural flavonoid) capable of preventing inflammation and aging.
Ways To Use
– These seeds can be consumed raw, roasted, ground as a paste/ filling for the preparation of the dishes.
– They are commonly used in kheer, puddings, snacks and curd.
5 . Rajgira (Amaranth)
-Tagged among the superfoods, amaranth (rajgira) is a rich source of protein, fiber, phytonutrients, essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals.
-It helps to boost immune health, aid digestion, lower blood pressure, prevent hair greying and serves as an anti-cancer agent.
Ways To Use
– It can be ground to prepare amaranth flour which can be used in preparing poori, roti and pakoras.
-You will be happy to know this flour comparably absorbs less oil while frying.
So, go ahead and add these nutritious foods to your diet these Navratras and reap the countless health benefits that they have to offer! Stay Healthy, Stay Happy!