Jaggery is a must-have food in winter. With its amazing taste and nutrient-rich composition, it is made by condensing the sap of date or palm trees and cane juice, while retaining its natural molasses and crystals. Known as non-centrifugal cane sugar, jaggery is widely used in Africa, Brazil, various regions of Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and the Indian subcontinent.
It is nutrient-rich and comes in a range of hues, from golden brown to dark brown. In addition to other insoluble materials like proteins and fibers, jaggery contains up to 50% sucrose, followed by 20% inverted sugars and 20% moisture.
Why Jaggery is a Winter Essential
A robust diet is necessary throughout the winter months to preserve warmth and strengthen the immune system. Jaggery is a natural remedy that can help against seasonal difficulties during this time of year by offering warmth, vitality, and resistance to common illnesses. Here is why jaggery is an essential part of a winter diet:
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Protects Against Pollution: For those living in northern states like Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab, jaggery is a must, as these areas experience high levels of pollution. The detoxifying properties of jaggery help cleanse the body and reduce the adverse effects of air pollution, keeping you strong from within.
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Relieves Stress and Anxiety: Winter season is usually accompanied by mood swings and stress due to low exposure to sunlight. The adaptogenic property of jaggery helps in reducing stress and bringing in mental well-being.
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Relieves Joint Pain: As winter comes, the cold air and low temperature often increase joint pain and inflammation. The anti-inflammatory properties of jaggery provide relief and keep you physically active.
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Boosts Energy Levels: Rich in iron and carbohydrates, jaggery increases hemoglobin and glucose levels and combats fatigue, offering a much-needed energy boost during the cold months.
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Fights Cough and Cold: Its pleasant taste calms sore throats and cures cough and cold conditions to a great extent, making this sweetener a natural curing agent for winter conditions.
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Increases Digestive Ability: Jaggery acts as a digestive catalyst. It reduces constipation and curbs stomach disorders due to poor digestion during the season, making your stomach healthy throughout winter.
3 Ways to Add Jaggery to Your Daily Diet
Adding jaggery to your daily routine is easy and rewarding. Here are three scrumptious ways to enjoy its goodness:
1. Jaggery Milk
Warm milk with a spoonful of jaggery in a glass is a comforting warm drink. This drink just feels like a warm hug in this cold winter. This combination really works on boosting immunity helps in reducing menstrual cramps and aids digestion.
2. Halwas made with Jaggery
Replace sugar with jaggery in traditional halwa recipes. Potato, Carrot, or even Wheat flour halwa made with jaggery is a yummy delight full of minerals. Dry fruits like almonds, raisins, and pistachios add flavor and nutrition to it, but do not forget to maintain the ghee content in the right proportion for a healthy version.
3. Laddoo preparation with Sesame and Jaggery
Prepare these nutritious laddoos by melting the jaggery in a little ghee and mixing the roasted sesame seeds (til). Shape the mixture into laddoos while still warm to avoid hardening. Sesame seeds complement jaggery by boosting immunity and supporting heart health.
