A lot of India's age-old, traditional food flavours and condiments are now part of the global culinary A-listers. They are called the superfood. The pure refined ghee got from cow's milk happens to be on the elite list. Cow's milk has been categorized into A1 and A2 based on the protein content in it. While the A1 category jacks up the cholesterol content in the body, the A2 is relatively safe. It's providential that our traditional breeds come under the latter category. It's the Holstein and other genetically-engineered breeds that give milk high on fat and protein content and which come under the A1 variety.
Ghee
The ghee got from the milk of A2 breeds, is immensely beneficial to health. Recent research says it lowers cholesterol, cools down the body, boosts immunity, improves one's memory and also builds up sexual stamina.
Turmeric
Turmeric happens to be the next wonder food. India was one country which was hooked to turmeric for centuries. Be it as part of medicines or food additives, turmeric was also used as a special ingredient at ceremonies and festivities.
When the old Spice Route was in fully form, traders loved to get their hands on spices like cinnamon, pepper, cloves and cardamom. But turmeric seldom figured in their list of tradeables. The scenario has changed and today, the West would rather go to bed with a spoon each of ghee and turmeric in a glass of warm milk. What induced the awe factor for turmeric were its antiseptic, antioxidant, antibiotic, antiviral, and antihistamine properties. Above all these were turmeric's ability to stall the onset of Alzheimer's and rein in the proliferation of cancer cells.
Pumpkin
The third in line is the humble pumpkin, which has a richer preserve of beta carotene than carrot and hence, an elixir for ophthalmic health. Full of antioxidants, it's a natural medicine for skin and hair health, which is why kids are given pumpkin dishes. Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, protein, potassium, magnesium, iron, and essential fatty acids. Of all fruits and vegetables, the ungainly pumpkin has the highest content of beta carotene.
Tender coconut
Up next is elaneer or tender coconut. It's a natural electrolyte with rich contents of minerals and proteins. Tender coconuts are a rich reservoir of fibre, protein, fat, and carbohydrate, which explains why tender coconut is referred to as a complete food.
Curds
The next super food happens to be curds. It's a good drink during the searing summers. Curds have a special place on all diet charts today. Lactobacilli, the good bacteria, of which curds have a huge content boost tummy health and strengthens immunity.
Tulsi
The tulsi is the latest entrant on the global health scene. It boosts the iron content of the body and helps ease allergies and acidity and lowers cholesterol. Tulsi sells as medicinal pills in the West.
