A health food that has gained much popularity in recent times, amaranth or rajgira is an ancient grain that has been there for years and is also a dietary staple among many regions across the world. Often considered as a superfood, rajgira benefits are numerous. With the high nutritional value of rajgira, this super grain has a number of impressive health benefits. A food grain that also holds a significant place in the Indian culture and tradition, rajgira forms an integral part of the Indian rituals and practices. Not only nutritious, but equally delicious, here’s all you need to know about rajgira and its various health benefits.
What is rajgira
A superfood that has been existing since over 8000 years, amaranth, also known as rajgira in India is a kind of food grain which is made up of 60 different species of grains. A staple dietary element in a number of regions across the world, rajgira is extensively consumed in Mexico, India and South America.
Although rajgira is not essentially considered to be a cereal grain, it is more specifically regarded as a seed, and a form of pseudo-cereal. A versatile, naturally gluten free and extremely nutritious group of grains, rajgira benefits are extremely extensive. A food that is rich in protein, fibres, micronutrients and antioxidants, the health benefits of rajgira are essential for the human body.
Health benefits of rajgira
Considered as among the best sources of vegetable protein in the world, rajgira benefits cover all round areas that are essential for a healthy lifestyle. Check out some of these top benefits of rajgira that you should know about-
- Rich source of protein- An essential rajgira atta benefit is that it is very high in plant protein, which makes it a great source of nutrition for those who are vegans and vegetarians. Rich in nine kinds of essential amino acids, the nutritional value of rajgira also helps in muscle building, muscle repairing and other important body functions.
- Antioxidant properties- Among the very important health benefits of rajgira is that it is packed with antioxidants, which helps to protect the body against various kinds of diseases, and also aids towards general health and fitness of an individual.
- Aids weight loss- The benefits of rajgira for weight loss is highly considered by those who are conscious of their weight and are in the process of weight loss. Rajgira is very low in calories, while being high in fibre which in turn helps towards preserving muscle mass, with notable benefits of rajgira for weight loss in your dietary regime.
- Improves hair and skin health- Rajgira benefits for hair and skin are highly recognised. It consists of the essential nutrients, which makes rajgira benefits for hair essential for healthy and strong hair, with better roots and reduction in hair loss. Rajgira benefits in Ayurveda are also extensive through the use of rajgira oil, which is extracted from the plant itself and helps to keep the skin nourished and moisturised.
- Improves digestion- A soluble fibre, among the major rajgira benefits is that it is known to help improve the process of digestion. The dietary fibre which is a part of the health benefits of rajgira can aid in eliminating problems of constipation, bloating and other serious conditions like gastric ulcers.
Rajgira recipes to try
Now that you have learnt all about the benefits of this nutritious and indigenous ingredient, experimenting with it in your kitchen is the obvious next step. In case you're unsure where to start, here are some delicious and nutrition packed rajgira recipes that are a must try-
Rajgira puris
Prepared from rajgira flour, these puris are light and fluffy and packed with rajgira atta benefits. High in protein and fibre content, rajgira puris are also gluten free and make for the perfect breakfast or snack food item for everyone. Pair it with a spicy sendha namak aalu curry for Navratri or other fasts and thank us later!
Rajgira kheer
A typical Indian dessert dish, rajgira kheer is a creamy pudding prepared from rajgira seeds, milk, and sweetener like jaggery. High in rajgira seeds benefits, being rich in iron and calcium content, rajgira kheer is a sweet dish which is not only delicious but also nutritious. Providing the body with essential nutrients, rajgira kheer also supports bone health.
Rajgira ladoo
Another traditional Indian sweet dish prepared from rajgira, rajgira ladoos are small and sweet balls prepared from roasted rajgira flour and jaggery. Packed with the rajgira seeds benefits, rajgira ladoos are rich in antioxidants and help towards promoting healthy metabolism.
Rajgira upma
We all like a good upma, and when it is prepared from rajgira flour and is packed with all the rajgira atta benefits, then the taste of such a dish only elevates further. A savoury dish prepared from rajgira flour, various vegetables and spices, rajgira upma makes for the perfect breakfast. Packed with the health benefits of rajgira, this dish is high in nutrients and fibres and helps you stay full for longer hours.
For a fun take, you can add some corn and kidney beans, sprinkle some Mexican seasoning, and viola! Tasty and healthy!
Rajgira salad
A healthy salad recipe that has all the nutritional value of rajgira, rajgira salad is a refreshing and innovative salad recipe that can be prepared from rajgira and your choice of vegetables and seasonings such as cucumber, tomato, and a tangy lemon dressing. A recipe that is completely customizable, rajgira salad is high in the vitamin index while being low in calories and is truly the healthiest salad out there.
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