Did you know having a spoon of honey before bed can help you sleep well? That cinnamon is great for your teeth? Or that asafoetida can help relieve pain?
No? Well, that is precisely why we have listed 11 such essential food items that you must have in your kitchen. Some of them you probably already have, some will need to be included but make sure you have them handy at all times!
Remember, a nutritious, well-stocked kitchen helps you fight most of your everyday health issues.
1. Organic Honey
Organic honey contains exact combination of fructose & glucose that our body requires. This makes it a powerhouse of antioxidants which boosts immunity and helps fight cold and infection.
It helps you have a great night’s sleep and will definitely assist you in losing those extra kilos. Also, a healthy substitute for sugar so you can add a teaspoon to sauces, salads and even tea!
2. Turmeric (Haldi)
Apart from being used as the main spice in curries, turmeric is also a good antiseptic for cuts and bruises.
It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which make it a healthy option to be included in the daily spice list!
3. Greek Yogurt
Greek Yogurt has high protein content and low carbohydrates and sugar content. Presence of live bacteria or ‘probiotics’ benefits digestive health.
It is also a good source of Vitamin B12, which helps you maintain a healthy gut and boosts your immune system.
4. Nuts
Nuts are high in unsaturated fats, which help in lowering cholesterol levels. They are also a good source of protein, fibre, vitamins & minerals.
Most nuts can be eaten raw and mixed with other nuts in a trail mix!
5. Garlic (Lahsun)
Fresh garlic has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal properties. It helps purify blood, flush out toxins and get healthy skin.
It can also be added to hot soups and stews to help fight sinusitis, cold and flu.
6. Cinnamon (Dalchini)
Major compound in cinnamon is cinnamaldehydem with strong anti-inflammatory properties. It helps shed weight and is good for heart and teeth.
Cinnamon powder can be mixed with warm water and taken twice a day for better results.
7. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The phenolic compounds present in olive oil help in lowering blood pressure levels. It is also loaded with powerful antioxidants which reduces risk of diabetes and helps lower cholesterol levels.
8. Black Pepper (Kali Mirch)
Black Pepper is a rich source of iron, fibre and vitamins. It helps get rid of wrinkles, increases metabolism and enables weight loss.
Pepper is good for the stomach, skin and for cognitive functions.
9. Asafoetida (Hing)
Presence of Coumarins makes asafoetida the best digestive aid. It helps deal with flatulence, stomach and tooth aches.
You can add a pinch to buttermilk and drink after meals. Raw asafoetida can also be fried with ghee & consumed for pain relief.
10. Dark Chocolate
Theobromine & anandamide are the main components of dark chocolate which are great for overall heart health. It is a rich source of nutrients like manganese, copper, iron & antioxidants and helps in lowering blood pressure levels.
11. Virgin Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil contains healthy fats called medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) which are easier to digest. It helps in healing kidney infections and skin inflammations. Also it is great for losing belly fat!
Remember, virgin coconut oil is healthy and NOT processed coconut oil!
What are you waiting for? Stock your kitchen with these healthy items right away!
(This admission season, The Quint got experts from CollegeDekho.com on board to answer all your college-related queries. Send us your questions at eduqueries@thequint.com)
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