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Healthy eating habits are on the minds of most people of all ages. Incorporating more fruits and vegetables is a priority.

A nutritious diet does not have to mean eating the same old banana for breakfast or a side of broccoli with lunch and dinner. It can contain new dishes that break up the monotony of your overused regular go-to meals.

Take, for instance, Indian food. Known for its colorful and aromatic cuisine, the world over this diet contains many vegetables, spices, and even fruits.

Among these ingredients, spices are known to have proven health benefits. Vegetarian and vegan dishes are also a large part of Indian cuisine.

Find out the health benefits of Indian food with the following information.

The Ingredients –

Chickpeas

First, let’s begin with a typical healthy Indian food, chickpeas.

Chickpeas are legumes packed with minerals, vitamins, protein, and fiber. You may recognize them if you enjoy hummus. 

Some other Indian chickpea dishes include Falafel, Chickpea Curry, Chickpea Biryani, Chloe Paneer, Aloo Chana Chaat, and Kala Chana Sundal.

Adding them to your weekly menu may help with:

• Weight Management
• Digestion
• Protecting Against Heart Disease, Type 2 Diabetes, & Some Cancers

Lentils

Lentils are another staple in the cuisine of India. Also part of the legume family, lentils are rich in amino acids, protein, fiber, and more nutritious vitamins and minerals.

Lentils are an excellent ingredient in the vegetarian diet. They can be found in delicious Indian food such as:

• Dal Tadka
• Tomato Pappu
• Dal Makhani
• Chana Masala
• Kadala Curry

Lentils may additionally assist in better digestion, controlling diabetes, enhancing metabolism, and strengthening the nervous system.

Mung Beans

A legume native Indian ingredient is the mung bean. Harvard Health describes the mung bean flavor as “reminiscent of potatoes.”

They contain nutritional elements such as iron, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and more diet-enriching vitamins and minerals.

Examples of mung bean Indian cuisine are Khatta Moong, Pesarattu, and Green Gram Curry.

Some reports say they might:

• Reduce Blood Pressure
• Lower Blood Sugar Levels
• Help With Weight Loss

Yogurt 

Yogurt is a popular ingredient in the cuisine of India. It contains healthy bacteria and probiotics that boost stomach and gut health and is a significant source of calcium.

Yogurt also has many essential B vitamins, riboflavin, magnesium, potassium, and more healthy nutrients.

Here are a few Indian foods made with yogurt:

• Dahi Aloo
• Gujarati Kadhi 
• Aval Dosa
• Dahi Bhindi 
• Punjabi Kadhi Pakora

On top of being good for the stomach and gut, yogurt may also ward off osteoporosis, improve the immune system, and aid in heart health.

The Spices –

Cardamom

Cardamom, the queen of spices, is one of the favorite spices in the cuisine of India. It is described as having a minty and peppery taste with hints of floral.

Something interesting to note is that cardamom is a spice in dessert dishes as well as savory plates. 

Some have reported that the anti-inflammatory, enzyme, and antioxidant properties of cardamom may help in the battle against cancer, chronic disease, and high blood pressure.

Try cardamom for yourself with a warm cup of Masala Chai, a hearty portion of Paneer Makhani, or a sweet Jalebis.

Garlic

While some may think that the Italians have the garlic market when it comes to preparing a meal, some of the best Indian foods use this fragrant spice.

And let’s be honest, garlic is delicious! It pairs perfectly with Naan, soups, dips, kabobs, and other main courses.

The health benefits of garlic may include a lower risk of Alzheimer’s and heart disease. It might also help with bone health and boost the immune system.

Cayenne Pepper

Bring on the heat and health benefits with a bit of cayenne pepper. If you are a fan of spicy hot food, then you must try the cuisine of India. 

Cayenne pepper can be found in these deliciously seasoned Indian food dishes:

• Vegetable Curry 
• Butter Chicken
• Chicken Tikka Masala
• Jalfrezi

The Cleveland Clinic states that cayenne pepper can protect the heart, improve digestion, help to stabilize weight, clear congestion, and even ease pain in their list of health benefits.

Cilantro

A favorite garnish in Indian food is cilantro. Its fragrant leaves and texture are delicate enhancements to top off a plate or finish a recipe.

Consider ordering a cilantro dish at your local Indian food restaurant for these healthy traits.

Eating cilantro may help lessen the frequency of epileptic seizures. The antioxidants in cilantro may help with some eye diseases and cancers. Cilantro might also reduce anxiety.

Cumin

The flavor of cumin can be described as hearty and earthy. It is a tasty component of many Indian menus.

Try Aloo Jeera, Jeera Chicken, Cumin Chicken Curry, and for a bite or two of this rich spice.

Cumin’s healthy attributes may include antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and help with weight loss.

There is a wide range of reasons to add the cuisine of India to your diet. There are new dishes to enjoy from growing your palette and the many health benefits.

As always, it is wise to consult with your doctor about how any of the spices or ingredients might affect you first.

We hope that you get a chance real soon to find your favorite Indian foods that you can exchange with your neighbors, friends, and family.

When you are craving only the best Indian food in the Cleveland area, visit Indian Delight! 

Our menu has delicious appetizers, entrees, and desserts that you have to try. Eat from the comfort of your home using our convenient delivery partners. Invite friends to dine in or grab a takeout order. Visit our website, www.idcleveland.com, to view menu options and order today!