Achar or Indian pickles have a long history and cultural connectivity with our food. We always look forward to dipping our rotis in tasty and tangy achars. But would you believe that these achars are not only tasty but also healthy? Like vegetables and fruits, achar offers us a load of nutrition without helping us gain weight. They are mostly water content and have little to no fat in them. This is why they are the perfect addition to your meals.
Learn the top three reasons why you should consume achar every day.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
Many of our pickles use vegetables and greeny leafy vegetables like methi and curry leaves. These ingredients provide a range of vitamins like vitamin A, C, K and more. They are also packed in micronutrients along with minerals like potassium, iron, calcium, etc. Pickles are also a good source of antioxidants. These ingredients help our body fight free radicals. So one needs to eat pickles to fight free radicals and vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Immunity boosters
Many of Indian pickles are made with Gooseberry (Amla) or Turmeric (Haldi). The former is the best source of vitamin C which boosts one’s immunity. The latter has an amazing chemical called Curcumin. It helps the body develop resistance to infection and viruses. These ingredients also help repair and recharge your important organs like the liver, heart and kidney. Pickles have favourable elements in them that promote good gut health.
Aids Digestion
Our body naturally produces probiotic bacteria that help break down food into energy that is eventually used by the body. But with increased consumption of junk food and fast food, we are slowly endangering this natural and helpful bacteria. Pickles that are made using natural fermentation help in the growth and well-being of such bacteria.
Now that you know the goodness and nourishment these pickles provide, do not hesitate to take a spoonful of your favourite pickle. Make sure you use homemade pickles as store-bought ones contain preservatives in them.