Were you also told as a kid that eating seeds would lead to growing of a plant inside your stomach? Well, if you believed it to be true, then we all have been tricked into believing that seeds are not something to be consumed. Let's debunk this, shall we? The only way we remember eating seeds like melon, sesame and pumpkin was in either in snacks like chivda or sweet dishes like barfi. But, there are so many ways you can enjoy them and even more reasons to include seeds in your diet.
Check out this blog where we talk about 9 seeds you should include in your diet. For this blog, we will focus our attention on Halim or aliv seeds. Halim seeds have existed for ages, but it is surprising that very few people know about its multiple benefits and even fewer people consume them on a daily basis.
Halim or aliv or garden cress seeds are tiny seeds that fall into the category of "functional foods" because they contribute to the overall health and well-being of the body, keeping diseases at a distance.
1. Benefits of Halim Seeds
a) Powerhouse of nutrients Halim seeds are rich in protein, have high levels of iron which helps in the production of RBCs and improving hemoglobin. They are also a rich source of Vitamin C, which in fact, is required to reduce the harmful effects of free radicals in the body. b) Helps in regulating menstruation Halim seeds are rich in phytochemicals which imitate the estrogen hormone, which can help in regulating the menstrual cycle in women. Consuming halim seeds is one of the most natural way to normalize menstruation. c) Aids in weight loss Halim seeds are very satiating and can control the hunger hormone "ghrelin" ensuring that we do not overeat, hence, keeping a check on our weight. In addition, the high protein and fiber content also helps in avoiding hunger pangs and gives the feeling of being full. d) Good for skin and hair Halim seeds contains nutrients and anti-oxidants essential for healthy skin and even helps in reducing severe hair fall.
e) Improves bowel syndrome The high fiber content of halim seeds helps in reducing bowel syndromes like bloating, gas, indigestion and constipation.
f) Enhances breast milk production Aliv seeds are a galactagogue, which means they help in the production of breast milk in women. They are highly recommended in the diets of lactating mothers. An easy way to add halim seeds in the diets of new mothers is in the form of laddoos made with ghee, jaggery, desiccated coconut along with other dry fruits.
g) Treats cough and asthma Halim seeds are rich in a plant-based compound which can help in the efficient functioning of the lungs, thus providing relief from the symptoms of asthma. Other than that, regular consumption of these seeds can help in the treatment of cold, cough and sore throat.
2. How to include Halim Seeds in your diet?
You can include Halim seeds in your diet in three ways- by roasting them; drinking halim water or in the form of laddoos. Dry roast halim seeds, let them cool and then store in an air tight container. You can sprinkle these roasted seeds on top of soups, salads and stews. To make halim water, soak 1/2tsp halim seeds in a glass of water overnight. Add 1/2tsp of lemon juice the next morning and drink this water. Another way is to soak few halim seeds in milk for few hours and then drinking this milk. Halim seeds go well with some form of fat.
One of the best ways is to make halim laddoos with either dates or jaggery and desiccated coconut.
You can shop for 100% natural Halim seeds from Tassyam.com.
3. Important things to keep in mind
