LET FOOD BE YOUR MEDICINE

NUTRACEUTICAL= NUTRITION + PHARMACEUTICAL

You might have come across the word 'nutraceutical' and you may have wondered what the meaning of that word is.

Nutraceutical refers to a food supplement that not only provides taste to the food when added but also gives many health benefits to us, to the extent of prevention or treatment of disease.

Doesn't that sound interesting? Why shall we use those medicines when we have something so natural as our food?

Let me introduce you to such amazing benefits of nutraceuticals that we can use in our lifestyle!

Natural health benefits of a few nutraceuticals:

Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice that is also known as dalchini in Hindi. It not only gives taste to Indian cuisine but also provides us with many health benefits.

Here are a few benefits of the same.

High source of Antioxidants: Cinnamon is packed with a variety of protective antioxidants like polyphenols, phenolic acid, and flavonoids which helps in reducing the free radical damage and also slows down the ageing process.

Helps in controlling diabetes: It helps in lowering blood sugar levels by blocking certain enzymes called alanine which allows for glucose (sugar) to be absorbed into the blood. Therefore it has been shown to decrease the amount of glucose that enters the bloodstream after a high-sugar meal, which is especially important for those with diabetes.

Helps in lowering the risk of cancer: Cinnamon contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde which can inhibit cancer tumour growth and protect DNA from damage, while also encouraging cancerous cells to self-destruct (called cell apoptosis).
 

Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is the mother of all vinegar, which has plentiful benefits. It wouldn't be wrong if it is called a multitasker. It has been touted as a "superfluid" that can do everything from lowering cholesterol to polishing your furniture. The "super-ness" of apple cider vinegar is believed to come from its high concentration of acetic acid, which improves the body's absorption of important minerals from the foods we consume.

Here are the few health benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Helps in controlling blood sugar levels: Vinegar is said to be anti-glycemic and has a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels. The acetic acid in the vinegar helps in lowering the blood sugar by preventing the complete digestion of complex carbohydrates, which is accomplished either by accelerating gastric emptying or increasing the uptake of glucose by bodily tissues.

Apple cider vinegar for heart health: Polyphenols such as chlorogenic acid, which is present in high levels in apple cider vinegar, could inhibit oxidation of LDLs (bad cholesterol) and improve health by preventing cardiovascular diseases.

Apple cider vinegar for acid reflux: Acid reflux typically results from having too little acid in your stomach. Taking apple cider vinegar daily can improve the acid content of the stomach. In apple cider vinegar, there is a content called pectin which helps in soothing intestinal spasms as well.

Apple cider vinegar prevents the accumulation of fat: It contains a lot of organic acids and enzymes which help in speeding up the metabolism, which in turn increases the rate at which the body fat is burnt.

 
Health Benefits of Isabgol
Isabgol which is also known as Psyllium Husk is the seed of the plant called Plantago ovata. Its leaves look similar to that of Aloe vera. The plant has a big flower-like structure like wheat which contains psyllium seeds. Isabgol has a prominent space in Ayurveda. It is known for its gentle laxative, cooling as well as diuretic properties.

Here are the few benefits of Isabgol

Helps in preventing constipation: In isabgol, there is a content called soluble fibre that is hygroscopic, which aids in soaking up moisture and swelling up to form soft stools. Whereas, the insoluble fibre present in Isabgol provides enough roughness to the wastes and pushes them towards the intestine. Thus, isabgol with its properties converts the excretion of waste into an easy and painless process.

Helps in controlling Diabetes: Isabgol has a natural gelatin substance that slows down the process of breaking down and absorption of glucose in our body. So it lowers the intake of glucose and control diabetes.

Helps in treating acidity: The husk of isabgol provides a coating layer to the stomach lining cells which helps in protecting the delicate tissue from the direct hazardous effects of stomach acid.
 
 

Health Benefits of Green tea
Green tea is one of the most commonly used teas all over the world. While many people enjoy the mild taste of green tea, it may have more benefits than simply being a refreshing beverage. It is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients that have powerful effects on the body.

Here are a few benefits of green tea

Green tea has the anti-bacterial property: Green tea contains antioxidants called catechins which hinder the development of many bacterial species.
Helps in combating allergies-a potent compound epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) present in green tea helps in combating allergies.
Helps in lowering the total cholesterol- The polyphenols present in green tea significantly reduce the level of harmful bad (LDL cholesterol) in the blood and raise the good (HDL cholesterol).

Helps in Weight loss: It contains antioxidants and polyphenols which also help in burning fat by using it as a source of energy instead of storing it and also by boosting your metabolic rates.

Preventing bone loss: The fluoride which is present in green tea helps in making the bone strong which in turn reduces the risk of osteoporosis in later life.
 
 

Health Benefits of Gugullu
Guggul is the common name for the flowering Mukul myrrh tree (Commiphora Mukul). It has been used as an Ayurvedic medicine for over two thousand years. Guggul is known by the Sanskrit name 'Guggulu,' which means, 'protects from disease'

Here are the few benefits of the Guggul

Aids in Weight Management: Gugullu contains certain compounds which activate thyroid hormones that increase the metabolic rate of the body. These hormones also play an important role in the regulation of normal metabolism thereby aiding in weight management.

Helps in lowering blood cholesterol: The resin contains guggulsterone, ketonic steroid compounds, which possess the ability to lower blood levels of LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol in the body. These compounds also prevent plaque build-up on the arterial walls thereby preventing atherosclerosis.

Protects from infections: Guggul is a saviour that protects the body against several infections as well. Certain anti-inflammatory compounds like phenolics, alkaloids, tannins, and steroids are present in guggul, which makes it a natural fighter against infections. These compounds also eliminate the toxins and free radicals from the body, generating complete protection against various health issues.

Helps in reducing inflammation: Inflammation is the cause of several chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, etc. The two powerful antioxidants (guggulipid and guggulsterone) present in Guggulu helps in fighting inflammation and stimulating your immune system.

Health Benefits of Aloe vera
Aloe Vera is a succulent plant species that has thick fleshy stems with spiny leaves. The fleshy stem contains Aloe juice which has various benefits from the skin to health.

Here are the few health benefits of the Aloe Vera juice

Aids in weight loss: Aloe Vera triggers the production of the protein collagen, which increases the metabolism process and makes sure that food is stored in the lower intestine for lesser periods. Filled with vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E, folic acid, and niacin, it is perfect to burn calories and lose body fat.

Helps in boosting immunity: It contains plenty of amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which help in reducing the loads of unnecessary free radicals which in turn help in boosting your immune system
 

 
Health Benefits of Triphala
Triphala is an ayurvedic medicine. It is made by combining three fruits, one of the most important components of Triphala is amla or Indian gooseberry which is a tremendous source of vitamin C and a powerful antioxidant. It has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in relieving the constipation problem and easing your system.

High source of antioxidants: Triphala contains Vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant, which helps in protecting free radical damage.

Aids in Digestion: The herbal mixture consisting of three fruits present in Triphala offers great support to the digestive system and helps in ensuring that the process of digestion is completed at its best. It also ensures the optimal working of the digestive tract.
 
 
Health Benefits of Wheatgrass powder
The first thing that jumps to our mind when we think of wheatgrass is 'What can a grass do to my body?', but the truth will blow your mind- wheatgrass is an effective healer because it contains 70% chlorophyll, all minerals are known to man and it is loaded with vitamin A, B-complex, C, E, and K. It is extremely rich in protein and contains 17 amino acids, the building blocks of protein.

Here are the few benefits of wheatgrass powder

Helps in weight loss: Wheatgrass stimulates the thyroid glands, which helps in speeding up the metabolism. This helps overcome obesity, indigestion, and other problems relating to a slow metabolism.

Protects the free radical damage: Wheatgrass contains a large amount of beta-carotene, which protects the cell from free radical damage.

Acts as an anti-inflammatory compound: The one enzyme SOD found in wheatgrass, lessens the effects of radiation and acts as an anti-inflammatory compound that may prevent cellular damage following heart attacks or exposure to irritants.
 
 
Health Benefits of Papaya
Papaya is a magical fruit that has numerous health benefits, it also provides a good amount of potassium, vitamins A, C, B, and phosphorous as well.

Here are the few benefits of papaya

Aids Digestion: Papaya contains an enzyme called papain that aids in digestion. As it is a natural laxative, it is great for people who suffer from gastric problems like diarrhoea, gas, constipation, etc

Boosts your immunity: Papaya contains a good amount of Vitamin C & antioxidants that help in building a stronger immune system.

Helps in preventing cancer: Papaya is a rich source of antioxidants, phytonutrients, and flavonoids that prevent cells from undergoing free radical damage, which is the main cause of cancerous cell growth in living beings.
 
 
Health Benefits of Chyawanprash
Chyawanprash is a delicious nutritive semi-solid jam-like cooked mixture that offers a wide range of health benefits.
 

Increases Immunity: The main ingredient in chyawanprash is (Amalaki) which aids in the elimination of toxins and strengthens the blood, the liver, the spleen, and the respiratory system; it therefore nourishes and protects the body's natural defence systems. It rejuvenates all tissues in the body and also increases overall strength and energy. It also aids in digestion and helps in boosting immunity.
 
 
Health Benefits of Buttermilk
Buttermilk is the slightly sour liquid that is made after churning curd with plain water.  Buttermilk reportedly has numerous health benefits; it contains several nutrients like protein, potassium, and B-vitamins, apart from calcium as well.

Here are the few benefits of buttermilk

Fights acidity: It cools your stomach and soothes any irritation, thus helping in preventing acidity.

Aids in Digestion: Buttermilk is a natural probiotic, which means that it provides the "gut-friendly" bacteria that aid in digestion.

Prevents Dehydration: Constipation and dehydration are typical health problems that occur because of water depletion within the body. Buttermilk will ensure keeping us hydrated as well as will help in curing constipation. Thus it is a handy drink in hot summers.
 
 

Health benefits of Garlic
Garlic is also known as lahsun in Hindi. It is a plant in the Allium (onion) family. It is closely related to onions, shallots, and leeks. It is mostly used in Indian cuisine, it has not only got a strong smell and delicious taste but also provides us with a wide range of health benefits.

Here are the few benefits of Garlic

Aids in digestion and also helps in boosting immunity: The high sulphur content present in garlic gives it antibiotic properties, which helps in flushing out toxins from the digestive system and also helps in building immunity against the common cold.

Have anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties: The sulphur-containing compound, Allicin, which is found in fresh, crushed, or chewed garlic has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.

Helps in Weight loss: Garlic appears to be a miracle food. It contains the compound allicin which helps reduce unhealthy fats and cholesterol in the body.
 
 

Health Benefits of Ajwain

Ajwain is also known as carom seeds in English. It is an important herb in the Indian kitchen that makes Indian cuisine tasty. It is easily available in an Indian household and also acts as an effective natural aid for a wide range of health issues.

Here are the few health benefits of Ajwain

Aids in digestion and relieves acidity: Ajwain contains high levels of thymol, a chemical, that aids in releasing gastric juices from the stomach and thus, speeds up the process of digestion and also helps in reducing the regurgitation of acids.

Helps in maintaining heart health: Due to the presence of niacin and thymol along with other vitamins, ajwain is very good at maintaining heart health. It has properties that improve nerve impulses and overall circulation within the heart.