Neena Gupta recently enjoyed a weekend breakfast featuring ‘Indore-style’ poha, showcasing the dish’s main star accompanied by sev, pomegranate seeds, and finely chopped onions, all enhanced with a sprinkling of masala. This traditional Indian breakfast option not only delights with its delicious flavor but also offers a nutritious start to the day, according to Deepti Khatuja, chief clinical nutritionist at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon. Khatuja emphasized the importance of a nutritious breakfast that is easy to prepare in today’s fast-paced world, highlighting poha as a convenient and nutrient-rich choice.
Here are some health benefits of poha:
- Energy from carbohydrates: Poha provides a reliable source of carbohydrates, essential for sustained energy levels. Skipping breakfast or reducing carb intake can lead to lethargy and lack of focus.
- Allergy-friendly: Poha is suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten allergies, offering a safe and tasty option.
- Iron-rich: Poha is packed with iron, an important nutrient for overall health. It also contains folate, crucial for fetal and placental development during pregnancy.
- Vitamin C boost: Adding lemon to poha not only enhances its flavor but also aids in iron absorption due to its vitamin C content.
- Plant-based protein: Poha often includes peanuts, providing plant-based protein, polyphenol antioxidants, and vitamin B9 (folate), which are beneficial for health.
- Heart-healthy fats: While being low in fat, poha contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids that support heart health.
- Calcium and fiber: Poha is rich in calcium and fiber, aiding in digestion. Adding vegetables to poha further increases its fiber content, making it a nutritious choice for diabetics.
In summary, ‘Indore-style’ poha not only delights the taste buds but also offers a plethora of health benefits, making it a wholesome breakfast option.
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