Have you ever wondered as to how Indians are successful in the IT- ITES Industry?
Every Indian’s success has got a lot to do with his traditional best practices with food, as we Indians are staunch believers of “Unity in Diversity”. Right from Punjabi cuisine’s Makkhan, Lassi (with loads of good fat), tandoori style, to the awesome South Indian cuisine that gives us delicious yet healthy dishes like Sambar, Rasam, Buttermilk (spiced variation of curd), which is enriched with ingredients that even the British adopted after realizing its value. We have heard about slow, fermented cooking process from Japan that delivers a super energetic and brilliant workforce, and our tradition offers equally good best practices which I think we are moving away from in this fast-paced world. This article is focused on reminding all of us to get in touch with our culture, to be super energetic and productive, not just for a good professional life, but also for quality family time.
Here are some of the spices, their traditional values & their importance in our daily diet to stay fit, healthy and energetic.
Black Pepper - This is simply the ultimate spice ever. It combats cancer, it’s a digestion enhancer, treats respiratory disorders, it’s very good for blood circulation, supports the growth of hair and controls our weight.
Grated Coconut – This South Indian staple is a phenomenal taste enhancer, which is also a good source of Fiber and Minerals, especially Potassium, Magnesium, Sodium & Good Fat. Coconut consumption must be in moderate proportions, as it adds perfect taste to the food along with numerous health benefits that it has to offer.
Red dry Chilis – This spice is known to relieve headaches, act as a natural fat burner that makes you brisk because of its pro-metabolic properties. It’s an immunity enhancer with antioxidants and this spice also helps strengthen our immune system.
Mustard Tadka in Ghee – This is the heavenly duo that not just tastes, smells divine but also has B12 vitamins. The Shudh (Pure) Organic Cow Ghee is good fat which has vital vitamins that strengthens your bones and helps in healthy weight loss. Yes! You read it right! Mustard seeds are rich in a nutrient called selenium, known for its high anti-inflammatory effects. The high source of magnesium in mustard seeds helps to reduce the severity of asthma attacks, certain symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and also helps lower blood pressure.
Daal (Pulses) - There are various varieties of Daal used in South Indian Cuisines especially in (Sambar) – (Moong Dal(white) & Urad Dal White). Daal varieties are a great source of Protein and are also low in Carbs. Low Carb diet is the order of the day. This is a good substitute if you are looking to give up Non-Veg, as this is close to meat in terms of providing protein for our essential needs. Urad dal is a good digestion enhancer, a good source of fiber, prevents constipation etc.
Curry Leaves – This is another boon from our land & tradition, Curry Leaves helps to keep our weight and Sugar levels in check. It helps sharpen our memory, helps relieve morning sickness and nausea, and is good for the eyesight. It also has medicinal value to heal wounds & burns, and can you believe that this great ingredient was given for free when we used to buy vegetables earlier, now it’s given free only when you buy vegetables to a minimum value of Rs 100 . Karuveppilai (Curry Leaves) and Kothamallee (Coriander Leaves) are the treasure trove of health, which is always unbelievably free!
Coriander Leaves- The health benefits of coriander include its use in the treatment of skin inflammation, high cholesterol levels, diarrhea, mouth ulcers, anemia, indigestion, menstrual disorders, smallpox, conjunctivitis, skin disorders, and blood sugar disorders, while also benefiting eye care. These leaves can again be procured for free from vegetable vendors!
Turmeric Powder - Turmeric contains bio-active compounds with powerful medicinal properties. It has Natural Anti-Inflammatory compounds. It increases the Antioxidant capacity of the body. Turmeric powder consists of Curcumin, that boosts Brain-Derived Neurotrophic factor, linked to improved Brain Function and lowers risk of Brain & Heart Diseases. There is evidence that this magical ingredient may prevent cancer from occurring in the first place, especially cancers of the digestive system like colorectal cancer.
Turmeric also helps in treating Alzheimer, Depression and delays Aging. Its main contribution to South Indian Cuisine is also to add color to make the dish look good. This is one of the few times where something that adds to looks is actually good for your health too.
Cooking Oil – provides energy for daily routine.
Jeera is again a digestion enhancer.
Asafoetida(Perungayam) is used for breathing problems including ongoing (chronic) bronchitis, H1N1 "swine" flu, and asthma. It is also used for digestion problems including intestinal gas, upset stomach, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) etc.
I hope that this article helps us all realize the value of our magical spices, that can bring about drastic health changes by just adding these in correct proportions to our diet. (If there are any history of medical conditions or even otherwise, it will be advisable to check with your doctor and then proceed, as per their advice before you change your diet drastically) Keep a check on your salt, sugar and carbs intake. Increase your Fiber intake by adding veggies, fruits, and juices to your regular diet, stay hydrated, get good routine sleep. Ensure you get enough work-out done for the day and keep your metabolism up and kicking for a healthy, happy and productive life!
I hope that this article helps us all realize the value of our magical spices, that can bring about drastic health changes by just adding these in correct proportions to our diet. (If there are any history of medical conditions or even otherwise, it will be advisable to check with your doctor and then proceed, as per their advice before you change your diet drastically) Keep a check on your salt, sugar and carbs intake. Increase your Fiber intake by adding veggies, fruits, and juices to your regular diet, stay hydrated, get good routine sleep. Ensure you get enough work-out done for the day and keep your metabolism up and kicking for a healthy, happy and productive life!
If you want to share more benefits of other styles of cooking best practices or have more ideas like this, feel free to reach out to HR Corp Comm team in this mail ID corpcomm@iopex.com – and you will stand a good chance of your article being featured in our very own official ‘iOPEX India Blog’ & you too can become a Blog Super Star!!!
Regards,
Pradeep Gopalan
HR Professional, Rhythm Guitarist(Groove Metal)
Automobile Enthusiast (Loves American Muscle)
Movie Critic