During the winter season, it’s essential to pay attention to our dietary choices to ensure our bodies stay nourished and resilient against the cold weather. One underrated yet highly beneficial food item during winter is urad, commonly known as black gram or black lentils. Packed with nutrients, urad offers numerous health benefits that make it an excellent addition to your winter diet. Whether enjoyed in soups, stews, or as a main dish, urad’s nutritional profile makes it a valuable addition to your winter meals. Embrace the warmth and nourishment that urad provides, and let it be a flavourful and nutritious staple in your winter culinary choices. Here are the 5 reasons why you should eat this dal in winter.
1. Rich in Protein
Urad is a powerhouse of protein, making it an ideal food source for vegetarians and vegans. Protein is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, promoting tissue repair, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Consuming urad in winter can help boost your overall protein intake, supporting your body’s energy needs during the colder months.
2. Provides Warmth to the Body
According to Ayurveda, urad is considered a warming food that helps keep the body warm during the winter season. Including urad in your meals can contribute to internal warmth, aiding in better circulation and preventing the feeling of excessive cold.
3. High in Iron Content
Urad is an excellent source of iron, a mineral essential for the formation of haemoglobin in red blood cells. Maintaining optimal iron levels is crucial, especially during winter when the risk of anaemia may increase. Including urad in your diet can help combat fatigue, support immune function, and ensure your body has an adequate supply of oxygen-carrying red blood cells.
4. Boosts Digestive Health
Urad is rich in dietary fibre, which is essential for promoting a healthy digestive system. During winter, when people may experience sluggish digestion, including urad in your meals can aid in preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements. Fiber also supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to overall digestive well-being.
5. Provides Essential Nutrients
Urad is a good source of various essential nutrients, including magnesium, potassium, and B vitamins. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining proper nerve function, supporting bone health, and ensuring overall metabolic efficiency. Including urad in your winter diet can contribute to a well-rounded nutritional intake.
