It's that time of the year again - a fresh start, an opportunity to revamp your routine for a healthier, heartier, and more positive lifestyle. This applies not only to your daily activities but also to your dietary habits. And what better way to kick off this transformation than with a wholesome morning ritual? After all, the morning sets the tone for the entire day! One such nourishing practice involves consuming raw turmeric (kacchi haldi) as soon as you wake up. The affinity of Indians for haldi requires no introduction. As one of the most popular spices in our kitchens, it has been a staple since time immemorial. Beyond adding colour to our culinary creations and functioning as a potent antiseptic, turmeric boasts exceptional versatility. But did you know that chewing it in its raw form can be incredibly beneficial? Let's delve into the reasons behind this.
Also Read: Immunity Beyond Turmeric: Discover 12 Secret Foods Your Kitchen Has Against Winter Bugs
What is Kacchi Haldi? What Is the Difference Between Raw Turmeric and Turmeric Powder?
Kacchi haldi is a fresh turmeric root that is directly consumed without processing. Whereas, turmeric powder is the spice that you get after washing, drying, and grinding turmeric roots.
While both ingredients are the same, according to health experts, it is logical that the fresh form of any vegetable, fruit, or spice retains more nutrients than its dried, processed, and powdered form; and it's no different in the case of turmeric.
Fresh turmeric roots have more curcumin, and more essential oils, and serve better for immunity, nourishment, and overall health. Having said that, turmeric powder makes a popular choice among several people, due to its easy availability. In fact, according to nutritionist Rupali Datta, both raw and powdered turmeric are healthy and can be consumed interchangeably. "All you need to keep in mind is the dosage," she adds.
Kacchi Haldi Benefits: 5 Reasons to Start Your Day with Raw Turmeric:
1. Flushes out toxins:
As mentioned, turmeric in its raw form has more antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. It helps remove toxins and prevent oxidative stress in the body. This further acts as a blood purifier. "Studies have found that raw turmeric helps regulate blood clot formation in the body," says Rupali Datta.
2. Regulates metabolism:
Metabolism slows down at night, which needs a proper kick to restart the next day. And that's where kacchi haldi comes in handy. With proper detoxification, raw turmeric helps regulate metabolism, further aiding gut health. Dr Simran Saini weighs in; curcumin in haldi is said to trigger bile production, which is one of the main components of healthy digestion.
3. Clears skin:
Rupali Datta states that the antioxidants in raw turmeric help prevent free radical damage, further promoting blood and oxygen flow in the skin cells. This helps prevent pimples, acne, and rashes and allows you to enjoy a natural glow from within.
4. Improves immunity:
According to the book 'Healing Foods' by DK Publishing, raw turmeric is a potent antiseptic and has anti-inflammatory properties that help improve your overall immune health. It also helps prevent seasonal diseases, including the common cold and cough, and nourishes you from within.
5. Prevents blood sugar spike:
According to the American Diabetes Association, increased blood sugar in the morning is quite a common phenomenon. In the early hours of the morning, hormones, including cortisol and growth hormone, signal the liver to boost the production of glucose, which provides energy that helps you wake up. When insulin production gets disrupted, it affects overall health. Having raw turmeric in the morning helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevents the sudden spike in the morning.
Also Read: How Much Turmeric Is Too Much Turmeric? Expert Reveals The Side-Effects
Can You Have Raw Turmeric As It Is In The Morning? What Is the Right Way to Have Raw Turmeric In The Morning?
All you need to do is clean the turmeric roots, peel the skin, and consume. However, knowing the right dosage is of utmost importance. In this case, Rupali Datta suggests having five to ten grams of raw turmeric every morning to make the most of it. You can either have it as is or add some honey/jaggery to reduce the pungent taste of kacchi haldi.
Pro Tip: Brush your teeth after chewing the raw turmeric, or it will leave you with yellow stains on your teeth and lips.
Eat mindfully and enjoy a healthy and happy New Year of 2024!