Here are 6 reasons why poha deserves to be a part of your daily diet

Oatmeal and eggs are a staple breakfast option for those who are looking to lose weight. Isn’t it? Well, those are some great options, but how about turning to desi foods that strike the perfect balance between health and taste. One such lip- smacking nashta is poha,also known as beaten rice.

Undoubtedly, poha is one of the most wholesome breakfasts you can ever find. It is rich in taste, contains antioxidants and vitamins, is gluten-free and a good source of carbohydrates. That’s why those of you who think a weight loss diet is all about feeling drained, make sure to test out the power of the poha. 

Here are six prominent health benefits of eating poha 

1. It will keep your gut health in check, since it is easy to digest

“Poha is a light breakfast dish that eases the digestion process. Since it is easy to digest, it doesn’t cause bloating and helps you feel full for a longer time. It is a wholesome and suitable breakfast, if you are looking to shed that excess fat and avoid acidity,” Dr Divya Malik, senior nutritionist & dietetics, Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Delhi.

You will be glad to know that poha is also a great probiotic. It is made by parboiling paddy and then drying it out in the sun. Then, it is beaten flat to make poha and undergo fermentation, which allows you to retain the microbial flora from the digested carbohydrates and protein by enhancing the gut health.

2. Poha will keep you energized as it has healthy carbohydrates

It is one of the good sources of healthy carbohydrates, which is required by the body to energize you. It is loaded with around 76.9% of recommended carbohydrates and about 23% of fats. Yes, that’s right! So, having poha for breakfast will make you feel active, without storing any fat.

3. It helps in maintaining blood sugar levels

Poha is rich in fibre and allows you to control the release of sugar into the bloodstream. This prevents a sudden rise in blood sugar levels. Thus, it is also suitable for those who have diabetes.

4. It might also help you fight anemia, as it is loaded with iron

If you haven’t added poha to your breakfast menu, do it right away! Also, don’t forget to thank us later! You will be amazed to know that poha can help in preventing iron deficiency. Moreover, it will slash down your risk of getting anaemia.

“This dish is beneficial for pregnant women and even children. To aid better iron absorption, you need to just squeeze a lemon on the poha and eat it,” recommends Dr Malik.

5. It is a great weight loss food, as it is low in gluten

Are you sensitive to gluten? Worried about what to eat and avoid? Then, you need to know that poha is absolutely amazing. It is low in gluten and can be eaten post your doctor’s recommendation.

“It is a good option for those who want to shed those excess kilos and stay healthy,” says Dr Malik.

6. Poha is a booster for your brain

Beaten rice is rich in vitamin B, which can help you stay energized and improve one’s brain health.

“Did you know? A bowl of cooked poha contains about 250 calories, and by adding vegetables, the dish packs a punch with its host of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. If you are looking to battle the bulge, do not put peanuts and potatoes in the poha, as they can increase the number of calories,” suggests Dr Malik.

The last word

But can we only eat it for breakfast? Well, preferably yes. Poha is light on your tummy and a perfect breakfast dish. Just remember, to make it healthier. Do not forget to cook it in olive oil. You can also add shredded coconut and onion in order to spruce up the first meal of the day.

Here’s one more thing that you should keep in mind. Since it contains carbohydrates, eating more than the recommended quantity can lead to weight gain. So, do not make it oily and avoid adding potatoes. Instead, you can add sweet potatoes if you want.