Why Is Lauki (Bottle Gourd) A Popular Indian Summer Food?

Lauki or bottle gourd is one of the healthiest vegetables out there but also happens to be disliked by many for its bland taste and pale looks. Yet, it happens to be a regular on our dinner plates. We all know how our mothers and grandmothers sheepishly try to feed us with this food in one form or another - be it in a mixed vegetable sabzi or soup or even halwa. Our constant outcry, grumbling and protest fall on deaf ears and we are left with no choice but to finish the lauki dish to the last bite. What is it about lauki which makes it so popular that it somehow manages to make its way into our regular diet?

Bottle gourd holds a special place in Indian cuisine as many health experts, nutritionists and Ayurveda practitioners promote it as a must-have food. Lauki belongs to the cucumber family and thrives in warm and humid parts of the world. It makes for a light meal, which is really helpful in the weighty weather of summers. 

(Also Read: How Lauki/Bottle Gourd Promotes Weight Loss)

^{Lauki/bottle gourd belongs to the cucumber family and thrives in warm and humid parts of the world}

Here's why lauki is considered an essential summer food- 

Provides Vital Nutrients - 

This one vegetable contains various vitamins like Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and vitamin E. It also packs a whole lot of other minerals like manganese, potassium and iron. All these come in together to make lauki a wholesome food that fights off common infections and serious diseases. 

Promotes Weight Loss - 

With almost no calories and no saturated fats, bottle gourd is more than 90% water. That's why it's considered a light-weight food, and with a considerable amount of fibre, it aids in the digestion process and helps in burning excessive calories. 

Protects From Summer Heat - 

Brimming with electrolytes, lauki restores the energy lost through sweating. Lauki juice is extremely hydrating and is a great summer drink to load up on.

(Also Read: 7 Incredible Benefits Of Drinking Lauki Juice)

^{Lauki juice is extremely hydrating and is a great summer drink to load up on}

Alleviates Anxiety -

Lauki contains an anti-depressant compound called choline, which peddles up blood circulation in the brain and provides relieves from stress and depression. 

These and many other factors add up to make lauki an important vegetable and one of the most common products in Indian kitchens. Next time you are served lauki on your plate, instead of throwing a fit, eat it with all your heart. 

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.