Jaggery is most commonly made from boiling sugarcane juice until it solidifies. It has been used by Indians as an indispensable part of food since ancient times. It is highly nutritious and must be included in daily diet. Here are amazing nutritional benefits of jaggery in winter:
1. Keeps Body Warm
According to Ayurveda, jaggery has a hot potency. It generates heat in the body during its metabolism. The blood vessels get constricted in cold weather. Having jaggery can dilate the blood vessels and enhances blood flow, therefore causing the body to heat up.
2 Boosts immunity
Since jaggery is a powerhouse of antioxidants and vital minerals such as zinc and selenium, it prevents free-radical damage, boosting the resistance of body against infections.
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3. Helps Lose Weight
Most of us end up consuming more food than necessary during winter. Water retention is also common, as we do not feel like drinking fluids. It is rich in essential minerals such as potassium, which helps in the reduction of water retention. It also helps in balancing electrolytes. This improves metabolism of the body and aids in weight loss.
4. Prevents Constipation
Since jaggery aids in digestion by activating the digestive enzymes in our body, it helps in proper digestion of food and prevents constipation. This is also the reason why people prefer eating jaggery after a meal.
5. Relieves Joint and Bone Pain
Winter can be tough on those suffering from joint and bone conditions. Most people tend to experience an increase in pain during this season. Eating a small piece of jaggery with milk daily can help. The antioxidant present in it will help to strengthen bones and prevents trigger of pain and other symptoms. You can also eat it with a piece of ginger to ease joint pain.
6. Treats Cough and Cold
A sudden dip in temperature may make you suffer from a number of ailments. This can ruin the fun of winter break. Cold and cough are common during this weather. It is one of the best natural ingredients that can treat cold and cough during winter. It keeps your lungs warm and opens up respiratory tract. Having jaggery with milk can soothe irritation of the throat.
7. Prevents Anaemia
It is rich in iron and folate. This helps to prevent anemia by maintaining a normal level of red blood cells in the body. This is especially important for pregnant women. Having jaggery with milk will also provide instant energy to the body.
8. Excellent Source of Energy
It is a good source of energy. It is a complex carbohydrate that supplies energy to the body gradually and preserves it for a longer time. Hence, consumption of jaggery will not raise blood sugar levels immediately. It will also help prevent winter-related fatigue and weakness of the body.
References:
https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/why-should-you-consume-jaggery-gur-in-winter-1767990
