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Nigella Seeds- A Remedy For Everything But Death

Nigella SeedsThere are innumerable seeds that can do wonders for our health due to their unique properties. We hear of a few of these on a day-to-day basis and there are some which we’re not aware of. One of these ‘least heard of’ seeds are Nigella Seeds!

Nigella Seeds are obtained from an annual flowering plant called ‘Nigella Sativus’. Speaking of origins, the oil of Nigella Seeds was found in the Egyptian tomb of Tutankhamun, dating back to approximately 3,300 years ago. It is believed that the Islamic prophet Mohammed declared these seeds as ‘a remedy for all diseases except death’. Isn’t that incredible?

Nigella Seeds are also known as kalonji, black caraway, black cumin, black seeds, fennel flower, nutmeg flower, roman coriander, and wild onion seed. They are loaded with phenomenal benefits, offering protection against several health conditions.

What Health Benefits Do Nigella Seeds Provide? 

These seeds provide massive health benefits. They have been known for their healing properties since time immemorial. From simple conditions to deadly diseases, these seeds can help alleviate several conditions. Here are some of their benefits:

  • Type 2 Diabetes: Nigella seeds can trigger the regeneration of the dying beta cells within the diabetic’s pancreas. Scientific studies have shown that 2g of nigella seeds everyday could result in reduced fasting blood sugar levels, along with decreased insulin resistance, increased beta-cell functioning and reduced glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c).
  • Hypertension: These seeds can help lower blood pressure significantly and can also help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL).
  • Infections: Being anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antioxidant and antiviral in nature, they are known to smack down various deadly infections including MRSA (which is an antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection), H. Pylori infection, psoriasis, etc.
  • Cancer: These seeds have shown to have miraculous effects in various types of cancer including colon, breast, brain, oral, leukemia and cervical cancer. A chemical compound extracted from nigella seeds, called thymoquinone, has an ability to stimulate apoptosis (cell death). Thus, slowing down cancer progression and arresting the spread of the cancer.
  • Brain conditions: Nigella seeds are known to possess anticonvulsive properties and can thereby reduce the seizure activity.
  • Glioblastoma: It is one of the most aggressive brain tumors of all and thymoquinone can induce cell death in the glioblastoma cells.
  • Brain lead toxicity: These seeds can reverse the damage caused to the brain due to lead toxicity and also radiation-induced damage.
  • Parkinson’s disease: Thymoquinone from these seeds has been shown to protect the neurons from toxicity associated with Parkinson’s disease and dementia.
  • Asthma: Being anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator in nature, these seeds play a huge role in improving asthmatic symptoms. Apparently, thymoquinone is considered superior to the drugs used for asthma.
  • Digestive issues: The seeds are extremely effective for indigestion and bowel issues. They can prevent formation of gas or facilitate the expulsion of gas, thereby combating flatulence.
  • Sore throat: The seeds can reduce throat pain and soreness and are also used in the treatment of acute tonsil inflammation. They literally reduce our dependence on painkillers.

Apart from the above, these seeds are also used to induce post-natal uterine contraction and are also useful in promoting lactation. They are one of the effective galactagogues that can help the mothers produce greater amount of milk. Furthermore, they have the power to reduce the indications of morphine intoxication, tolerance, and addiction. It could be an effective therapy in long-term treatment of opioid dependence.

How Can You Use Them In Your Diet? 

They are slightly bitter and peppery with a crunchy texture. You can powder these and add them to juices/smoothies, or roast them lightly to release the essential oils and then grind them with grated coconut, roasted garlic and other spices to make a delicious chutney. You can also throw them whole in your curries, gravies, dals and soups.

Nigella Seeds are indeed a powerful healer and one of the best gifts to mankind! It’s something that you must fill up your jars with and use them regularly in your meal preparations.

We hope this article helps you get healthier. For more on nutrition, check out Healthy Reads or you can ask a GOQii Coach directly by subscribing for personalized health coaching here: https://goqiiapp.page.link/bsr

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Healthy Eating: Nutritious Jackfruit Dumplings

jackfruit dumplingsKumbilappam is an authentic snack of Kerala. It is made at most homes in Kerala during the Jackfruit season. These Jackfruit Dumplings are prepared using ripe jackfruit puree, jaggery, grated coconut, cumin seed powder, cardamom powder and rice flour. This snack has different names in different parts of Kerala such as Chaka kumbulappam, Chakka Appam, Vazhanayappam and Theraliyappam. The mixture is wrapped and steamed in Indian Bay leaves which imparts a special fragrance.

Ingredients:

  • Ripe jackfruit pods/bulbs – 2cups
  • Jaggery -1 cup (adjust according to your taste)
  • Grated coconut – 1 cup
  • Rice flour(roasted) – 2 cups
  • Powdered cardamom – ½ tsp
  • Crushed/powdered cumin seeds – ½ tsp
  • Bay leaves – 12 
  • A pinch of Salt 

Method:

  1. Remove the seeds from jackfruit pods and pressure cook the jackfruit for 2-3 whistles.
  2. After cooling, blend it into a smooth paste in a mixer and transfer it to a bowl.
  3. Add jaggery, grated coconut, cardamom powder, cumin seed powder and salt and just pulse it (do not make it like a paste).
  4. Add this mixture to the jackfruit puree and mix well.
  5. Add roasted rice flour little by little and make a smooth dough out of it which is not too hard. If the dough is hard, add little water and don’t worry if the dough is slightly liquidy. The rice flour will absorb the moisture.
  6. Cover and keep aside for about 10 minutes.
  7. Make cones from the bay leaves using a toothpick. Leave the upper edge of the leaf to close the cone.
  8. Put the dough into the cone and cover the top with the upper edge of the leaf. Continue the process until the entire dough is used up.
  9. Place these yummy dumplings in a steamer and steam it for 30-45 minutes.
  10. Serve warm! Once cool, you can store these jackfruit dumplings in a fridge and steam them before eating! 

Quick Tips 

  • You can use banana leaves if bay leaves are not available
  • You can also transfer the prepared smooth dough into a plate (brush a little ghee) and steam it in a steamer until done.

Health Benefits of Jackfruit Dumplings

  • The fruit is made of easily digestible bulbs with simple sugars that when eaten, replenish energy. 100g of jackfruit gives 94 calories, 1g protein, 2g dietary fiber.
  • It’s rich in vitamin C. Hence, it improves the immune system and slows aging of the skin. 
  • High in antioxidants – Carotenoids, the pigments that give jackfruit its yellow colour, are high in vitamin A. These protect cells from damage, prevent eye diseases and heart diseases. Vitamin A is capable of keeping mucous membrane and skin healthy. Beta carotene present in the jackfruit lowers the risk of lung disease and oral cancer.
  • It has the potential to reduce the risk of heart disease due to its content of potassium, magnesium and fiber. Being a rich source of potassium, it has the ability to control heart rate and high blood pressure. The magnesium content helps in the absorption of calcium and strengthens the bones.
  • Improves the digestion as it is rich in soluble and insoluble fiber thereby and keeps your bowel movements regular.
  • It is a rich source of iron and helps in keeping anaemia at bay and improves blood circulation too.
  • Being rich in copper, it helps in thyroid metabolism especially in hormone production and absorption.

We hope you enjoy this delicious Jackfruit Dumpling recipe! Do try it out and let us know your experience in the comments below. 

For more healthy recipes check out Healthy Reads or ask a GOQii Coach directly by subscribing for personalized health coaching here: https://goqiiapp.page.link/bsr

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Common Reasons For Not Losing Belly Fat

Commons Reasons For Not Losing Belly FatBelly fat is not accumulated in a day or two. It takes several weeks and months of unhealthy eating and lifestyle to build it. When people finally decide to lose belly fat, the first thing they wonder is ‘Why am I not losing belly fat even after exercising so much and cutting down on junk food?’ There are several reasons for it.

Reasons Why You’re Not Losing Belly Fat

Here are a few common reasons why most individuals find it difficult to lose belly fat.

1. Eating Heavy Meals At One Time
Most people struggling with losing belly fat and weight loss are the ones who tend to have too much food at one time. The reason for this is largely either long gaps between the meals or skipping previous meal or if the person consumes food very fast. How is this related to belly fat?

When a person consumes food, it gets broken down to release/provide energy. Firstly, it will fill in the glycogen stores and then the excess calories that are not used up with good physical activity get converted into fats and the most common sites of fat storage is the belly, arms, thighs and buttocks.

When you are having food, only post 20-25 mins of eating, the satiety centers in the brain are activated and you feel full and satisfied. When you eat fast the satiety centers of the brain are not activated and you end up eating more. Small frequent meals and chewing your food thoroughly and eating mindfully is the key to control food portion.

2. Dinner Meals Are High In Carbs & High In Quantity
Due to a hectic schedule, the only meal that we have together with the family turns out to be ‘dinner’ and in turn, it ends up to be the largest meal with a variety of food that the entire family enjoys. Ideally, dinners should be light and should be high in proteins and less in carbs. This is actually vice versa of what is generally practiced.

The reason for the dinners to be light and high in proteins and less in carbs is that post dinner, we are not that active. Hence, there’s no real requirement of all the carbs for energy. The process of recovery of all the muscles that are used up throughout the day, the repairing of all the wear and tear happens during the night and that requires proteins, not carbs.

3. Physical & Mental Stress
This is only with regards to people who are excessively obsessed with exercise to lose belly fat. Excessive exercise leads to physical stress and thus, high cortisol levels. In case of mental stress, you might have noticed that the first thing you would choose is chocolates/ice creams or any comfort foods that are high in sugar or carbs for that matter. At this point of stress, the food gets broken down and is converted to fat and stored in your belly area. Exercise in moderation and keep yourself stress free by indulging in some yoga and meditation or your hobbies.

4. Consumption Of Processed Food
Do you have the habit of reading labels? Do pick one product that you eat the most and read the label today. Most of the processed or ready to eat food products are high in sugar, fat or refined carbs. They are extremely low in fiber as well. Even the fiber enriched product gives less than 2gm of fiber per serving. Read labels and choose wisely. The best solution here is to eat homemade food or you can try some variations to increase fiber intake by incorporating more veggies/fruits along with the main product.

5. Aerated Drinks
Products containing HFCS (High Fructose Corn syrup) or liquid glucose, that are present in all the aerated drinks like Cola, flavored sugar syrups, etc. do not get metabolized and are stored in the belly as fat, which is really tough to get rid off through just activities. Instead, opt for buttermilk, lemon water, coconut water, and fresh lime soda (salted) over the above drinks.

We hope this article helps you make better choices and avoid these common reasons for not losing belly fat. For more on weight loss, check out Healthy Reads or ask a GOQii Coach for guidance by subscribing for personalized health coaching here: https://goqiiapp.page.link/bsr

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Eat Chocolates Guilt-Free! Here’s Why!

World Chocolate DayThe next time you eat a piece of chocolate, you may not have to feel so guilty about it. Despite its bad reputation for causing weight gain, there are a number of health benefits of chocolate you might not know! Let’s explore them along with some guilt-free pairings.

Health Benefits of Chocolate

  • Antioxidant Rich: Its antioxidant potential have a range of health benefits. The higher the cocoa content, as in dark chocolate, the more benefits there are. Dark chocolate may also contain less fat and sugar, but it is important to check the label.
  • Improve Blood Flow and Lower Blood Pressure: The bio-active compounds in Dark Chocolate (Cocoa) may improve blood flow in the arteries and cause a small but statistically significant decrease in blood pressure.
  • Protects Skin from Sun: The bioactive compounds in dark chocolate may also be great for your skin. The flavanols from cocoa can improve blood flow to the skin and protect it from sun damage. So, if you’re planning a beach vacation, consider loading up on dark chocolate in the prior weeks and months.
  • Improves Brain Function: The good news isn’t over yet. Dark chocolate may also improve the function of your brain. Cocoa may also significantly improve cognitive function in elderly people with mental impairment. It may improve verbal fluency and several risk factors for disease, as well.

Despite these health benefits of chocolate, it doesn’t mean you should go all out and consume lots of it every day. It is still loaded with calories. You can have a square or two after dinner and try to really savor them.

If you want the benefits of cocoa without the calories in chocolate, consider making a hot cocoa without any cream or sugar. Choose quality stuff — dark chocolate with 70% or higher cocoa content works just fine.

Guilt-Free Chocolate Pairings 

Chocolate Alone Is Good, but Chocolate With These Foods Is Better.

  1. Flirty Fruity: The darker the chocolate, the more bitter. The more bitter, the more it’s needs to be complimented by something very sweet.  That’s why dark chocolate goes great with ripe strawberries, pears, mangoes, bananas – the sweeter fruit, the better! White chocolate on the other hand is already very rich and sweet.  Pairing white chocolate with fruits that have a higher acidity or more mild flavor, such as tart berries and citrus, or mild melons and passion fruit, compliment this type of chocolate very well! If ever in doubt, milk chocolate is the best middle ground.
  2. The Naughty Nutty: Chocolate enhances the flavor of some nuts better than others. Peanuts, almonds, hazelnuts, and pecans have very distinct flavor components that go great with dark chocolate! They may be a little overpowering for some milk and most definitely white chocolates. It’s all about the balance.
  3. Let’s Get Cheesy: Rich, buttery, nutty, creamy – terms you can use interchangeably when talking about cheese and chocolate! It doesn’t initially seem like an obvious match, but certain cheeses and chocolates have flavor components that complement each other very well! A cheese that is more acidic and pungent, like a blue cheese or goat cheese, would go better with a darker chocolate that can stand its own among those intense flavors.
  4. Crispy Coffee: A more obvious pairing of chocolate would be with coffee! Both nutty and bold flavors go phenomenally well together, especially when paired correctly! Darker chocolates go with darker and bolder roasts, like an Italian roast. A breakfast blend is sensational with a few pieces of creamy milk chocolate! Lighter roasts, like Costa Coffees pair well with the lightest of “chocolates”—white chocolate!
  5. The Romantic Wine: Chocolate and wine both have very intense flavors! A bite of good chocolate can easily overpower the taste of a light red or white wine—as does a sip of good dry wine to less bold chocolates. The key to successfully pairing wine with chocolate is to match sweetness with sweetness! Pairing milk chocolate (or sweeter dark chocolates) with dessert wines, like a Vintage Port, Madeira, or a sweet sherry, is the easiest way to make a successful pairing. These types of wine bring a natural sweetness to help keep up with the sweetness of the chocolate. And when paired right, chocolate and wine can be extraordinary!

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s celebrate this World Chocolate Day with our near and dear near ones! Found these guilt-free pairings interesting? Do you have some combinations of your own? Let us know in the comments below!

For more on chocolate, check out Healthy Reads or to explore more benefits, ask a certified expert by subscribing for GOQii’s personalized health coaching here: https://goqiiapp.page.link/bsr

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