We are a microcosm of our universe. Changes in the macrocosm bring about seasons that influence the health of our mind and body. MADHAVI K SHARMA tells us how to adapt and align our lifestyle accordingly
Eating seasonal food is the key to a healthy life. Not only does it allow us to benefit from the higher life force energy in such foods, but also adds variety to our meals. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are loaded with nutrients that help boost our immunity and prevent us from the infections that might occur in that season.
However, with technological advancement, preservation of food has become easy and all foods are available throughout the year. The modern generation hardly understands the concept of eating in sync with natural rhythms and its significance towards leading a healthy life.
January: Til
Til keeps the body warm in peak winters. It is loaded with calcium, zinc, omega-3, vitamin E, fiber and antioxidants. It is the go-to food not just for good hair and skin, but also for stronger bones, healthy heart, smoother digestion and balanced blood sugar.
February: Beir
Beir is filled with minerals like potassium, phosphorus, manganese, iron, and zinc which are essential for maintaining a good heart health.
Iron boosts haemoglobin production, which helps ward off anaemia. Beir is easily digestible as it contains dietary fiber, and is great for those who tend to suffer from constipation.
March: Kanji
This seasonal probiotic drink is a tasty health tonic. It improves gut health and boosts immunity as the season changes from winters to summer. Loaded with antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals like vitamin K and C, potassium and manganese, it offers protection against a variety of chronic lifestyle diseases like fatty liver, diabetes, and even cancer.
April: Amaranth
Amaranth is a gluten-free option to wheat. It has peptides and oils with anti-inflammatory properties which relieve pain and inflammation. Amaranth is also a good source of lysine which helps calcium absorption and increases muscle mass.
May: Phalse
With a natural cooling effect, phalse is a hyper-fruit that helps regulate electrolyte imbalance. The unripe portion of the berry helps in cleansing blood and helps heal respiratory problems like sore throat, cold and bronchitis.
June: Shehtoot (Indian Mulberry)
Mulberries boost liver health and purify the blood. They contain iron that is useful to maintain liver health. Also, they are high in vitamin K and calcium, which along with iron help build stronger bone tissues and bones.
July: Bhutta (Indian Corn)
Corn is rich in vitamin A and antioxidants, which helps in maintaining good eye health. Corn is rich in fiber, which is good from the perspective of weight-loss too. Fiber helps in digestion which facilitates weight-loss. The fiber in corn also helps in reducing cholesterol levels.
August: Apricot
Apricots, with high amounts of vitamins, flavonoids, and potassium, have significant health benefits. Flavonoids are good for your blood vessels and reduce chances of inflammation. Potassium promotes nerve and muscle functioning and supports heart health.
September: Singhaada
Singhaada contains several antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. It has been known to promote hormonal balance in the body and also improve fertility. They are high in potassium and help regulate blood pressure, and boost cardiac health too.
October: Custard Apple
These tasty treats heal ulcers and prevent acidity. The micronutrients in these give skin a smooth tone. Vitamin C and riboflavin, which are plentiful in custard apple, are good for your eyes, while flavonoids in them are believed to prevent certain types of cancers and tumours.
November: Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla is known for its immunity boosting properties. Diabetics can include this fruit in their diet as it helps in improving insulin sensitivity and also regulates blood sugar levels. It also helps in regulating production of cholesterol and has cardio-protective abilities.
December: Jimikand (Elephant foot Yam)
Jimikand has a hot digestive effect on the body and is ideal for winters. Due to its thermal effect, it decreases mucus while increasing bile and thus aiding digestion. It also helps in improving bone health, electrolyte balance and anaemia.
The writer is Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator, Founder, Informed Health
