Iron Rich Indian Traditional Foods
The body needs iron to make hemoglobin, a key element of the red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen throughout the body. Low hemoglobin in the body can inhibit the flow of oxygen in the muscles and tissues and this can lead to fatigue and other symptoms of iron deficiency. This low hemoglobin level in the body is called Anemia. According to Ayurveda, nutrient deficiencies arise because of vikirita pitta or pitta (the fire element) flowing in an abnormal direction. So, the cause of anemia is either an apparent nutrient deficiency or something gone wrong with the body’s fire element. So let’s know what are the traditional food secrets to increase iron in the body.
1. Jaggery: Iron Rich Indian Traditional Foods
The mention of gur or jaggery is found in ancient Ayurvedic texts. Ayurvedic text Ashtanga Hrudayam Sutrasthana explains that regular consumption of washed and cleaned jaggery decreases Kapha dosha (read more about Kapha Dosha) . It has very rich amount of iron in it and increases hemoglobin in the blood.
Unrefined jaggery (Iron Rich Indian Traditional Foods) on the other hand balances Vata and pitta doshas besides serving as a blood purifier, boosting strength and works as an aphrodisiac. Dhauta guda or washed jaggery flushes out toxins and balances pitta doshas. Ayurvedic practitioners strongly recommend using old jaggery – which is at least one year old for promoting digestion, cleansing gastrointestinal tract, urinary bladder, boost heart function and beat anemia.
2. Fennel seeds: Iron Rich Indian Traditional Foods
Saunf is a storehouse of Manganese, sodium, potassium and calcium that aid in improving and strengthening teeth and bones. Iron in saunf helps in the production of red blood cells. The presence of these elements prevents cell damage and slows down ageing process. Furthermore. it helps to maintain hormonal balance and has anti-spasmodic properties thereby easing menstrual cramps. Chewing the seeds can help to relieve hunger pangs.
Read all benefits of Fennel seeds
3. Fenugreek Seeds: Iron Rich Indian Traditional Foods
Methi (fenugreek) is rich in fiber, iron, calcium, Vitamin B6, and magnesium. It has various health benefits like increasing breast milk production, improving gut health, helping in weight loss, and regulating blood sugar levels. As per Ayurveda, methi is slightly pungent & bitter, light for digestion, hot in potency. It balances Vata and Kapha doshas and may aggravate Pitta dosha. So, one with the Pitta Prakriti must consume it in moderation only.
read benefits of fenugreek seeds in diabetes