Ever wonder why some people are either too fat or too thin? The main reason is not eating a balanced diet. A balanced diet includes staple foods that provide nutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Not having a balanced diet can hinder both physical and mental development and reduce a person's productivity. It's crucial to eat a balanced diet to maintain a healthy body and mind and to prevent serious diseases. So what kind of nutrient-rich staples do you need in your kitchen? What are the benefits from them? Let's identify together.
Why is Nutrient Rich Food Necessary?
Having healthy food in your kitchen is good for your body in many ways. It boosts your energy, improves your body functions, and strengthens your immune system. Healthy eating habits help you maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of weight gain.
It also reduces the risk of diseases like diabetes, cancer, and heartburn. Overall, a healthy diet helps you feel better, gives you more energy, and reduces stress on your body.
Some Must-Have Staple Foods for Healthy Meals
Here is a list of healthy foods you should always have in your kitchen no matter what.
Rice
Rice is a beloved staple in Indian cuisine, used to make dishes like biryanis and khichdi. Varieties include white, brown, red, black, and basmati rice. It's mainly carbohydrates. Himalayan red rice is the most beneficial among these. If you are health-conscious, then this is best for you. Its zero-fat content gives you guilt-free enjoyment and supports your weight loss goals.
Lentils and Legumes
Lentils, like chana dal and moong dal, are important for vegetarians and vegans, rich in protein, fiber, and nutrients. These are important for maintaining good health. They are low in fat and cholesterol-free while being rich in dietary fiber. Legumes like kidney beans, also known as Rajma, are rich in plant-based protein, minerals, and fiber to enhance energy levels. It is widely used in recipes like Rajma Chawal, soup, and gravies.
Dairy
Dairy is a very common staple food in India, and people consume it in various forms, such as milk, curd, paneer, and ghee. Dairy products are rich in calcium, protein, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, necessary for maintaining good health. Ghee, a clarified butter, is used as a cooking medium in Indian households. It is a rich source of vitamin A, essential for maintaining good eyesight.
It is important to have a well-stocked kitchen when you are planning a healthy meal.
Healthy Sweeteners
Natural sweeteners like Honey and Stevia offer antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits. Everyone loves something sweet in their diet. Honey is a natural sweetener that is also packed with a ton of goodness. It is known to be antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory and also has antioxidant properties.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar made from pure organic apples, may help to control blood sugar levels, support healthy cholesterol levels, and fuel your body with essential vitamins B & C. It supports the growth of good bacteria, aiding digestion and gut health. It also helps cleanse the body of toxins and impurities.
Spices and Dried Herbs
A well-stocked spice and herbs are essential in all kitchens. They add all the necessary flavors to your meals. They all offer a lot of health benefits and help reduce inflammation and also lower the risks of a lot of diseases.
Millets
Bajra: This nutrient-rich millet is the staple food consumed in regions like Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Recipes like bati, rotlas, and rotis are prepared with bajra.
Ragi: Touted as the superfood, Ragi is widely grown in Uttarakhand. Dishes like dosas, rotis, and idlis are prepared from ragi flour. It is loaded with dietary fiber, making it an excellent choice for babies and adults to lower the risk of heart issues and diabetes.
Humans require a certain amount of calories and nutrients to stay healthy. By having these organic staple foods in your kitchen, you can enjoy balanced and nutritious meals.
Take a moment to review your kitchen and identify any essential staple foods that may be missing for a balanced diet.
