Category: Food & Nutrition

Lady Finger, also widely known as Bhindi, Okra, or Gumbo (Abelmoschus esculentus), is a common vegetable appreciated across various global cuisines. Renowned for its rich mucilage and high dietary fibre content, this pod-like vegetable offers a spectrum of nutrients and potential health benefits, including supporting heart health, digestion, and blood sugar management [1], [2]. This…

Kodo millet, scientifically known as Paspalum scrobiculatum, is a small, versatile, and naturally gluten-free grain that has been a traditional crop in parts of India, Africa, and Southeast Asia for centuries. Belonging to the Poaceae family, Kodo millets are highly valued for their resilience and ability to thrive in arid and semi-arid climates, making them…

Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are the edible seeds found inside pumpkins. More than just a seasonal snack, these small seeds are packed with a variety of important nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. With their mildly sweet and nutty flavour, pumpkin seeds are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways, whether as…

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is an essential nutrient that plays an indirect but crucial role in maintaining overall bodily health. It is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress [1], [2]. One of its essential roles is synthesizing collagen, a structural protein vital for skin, blood vessels,…

The Java Plum (Syzygium cumini), commonly known as Jamun in India, is a widely consumed seasonal fruit valued in traditional medicine for its diverse properties. This small, dark purple fruit is rich in bioactive compounds and has been an area of focus in clinical nutrition for its potential therapeutic applications [1]. This post will provide…

Sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum) are tiny, nutrient-rich seeds obtained from the sesame plant. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, dietary fibre, and healthy fats, primarily mono- and polyunsaturated fats [1]. Additionally, these seeds provide important micronutrients such as calcium, iron, magnesium, several B vitamins (including thiamine and niacin), vitamin E, and powerful antioxidants…

Pregnancy changes everything, including what your body needs. If you’re feeling unusually tired or lightheaded, low iron could be the reason. The good news? Adding the right iron-rich foods to your diet is the first step to supporting both your health and your baby’s development. Pregnancy is a nutritionally demanding phase, and iron is one…

Ziziphus jujuba, commonly known as the Jujube fruit or Indian jujube (or Ber in Hindi), is a small, soft, and crispy fruit known for its sweet taste. This fruit typically appears red, yellowish-brown, or sometimes white, with a globose or oblong shape, measuring about 2–5 cm. Its mild, pleasant scent is often compared to that…

Elderberry refers to a group of flowering plants belonging to the Adoxaceae family, with Sambucus nigra (commonly known as black elderberry) being the most widely used species. These small, dark berries are known for their tart flavour and are typically not eaten or consumed fresh due to their potentially toxic nature. Instead, they are usually…

Kokum butter is a vegetable fat extracted from the seeds of the Kokum tree (Garcinia indica), which is native to the Western coastal region of India [1]. The fruits of the Kokum tree yield seeds rich in fats, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. Kokum butter is the resulting fat extract, which is notable for being…