When it comes to weight loss, digestion plays a crucial role in determining how efficiently your body absorbs nutrients and expels waste. Choosing the right food that aids digestion can make a significant difference in your weight loss journey. Two popular dishes in Indian households are khichdi and poha. Both are light on the stomach and easy to prepare, but which one is better for digestion and supports weight loss more effectively? In this article, we'll compare the digestive benefits of khichdi and poha, and help you decide which one is the best option for your healthy eating plan. The best part is that you can easily make them at home and even order them via an online food delivery platform.
Also Read: What Happens When You Eat Khichdi Every Night For A Month
Here's Why Khichdi Is Great For Digestion:
Khichdi is widely regarded as a digestion-friendly dish due to its simple ingredients, balanced nutrition and soothing properties.
1. Easy-To-Digest Ingredients
Khichdi is made from rice and lentils (typically moong dal), both of which are light on the stomach and easy to digest. Rice, a carbohydrate, and lentils, a source of plant-based protein, combine to form a mild, non-acidic dish that doesn't irritate the digestive system. The soft texture of khichdi makes it easy to break down and absorb.
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2. High In Soluble Fibre
Lentils, especially moong dal, are rich in soluble fibre. This type of fibre absorbs water in the digestive tract, forming a gel-like substance that slows digestion and promotes the smooth movement of food through the intestines. Fibre also helps prevent constipation by adding bulk to stool and improving bowel regularity.
3. Promotes Gut Health
The combination of rice and lentils in khichdi is easily fermentable, providing a prebiotic effect that helps nourish the beneficial bacteria in the gut. A healthy microbiome supports digestion and helps in the breakdown of food. Khichdi also contains small amounts of spices like cumin and turmeric, which have antimicrobial properties and can help in maintaining gut health.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Spices
Many variations of khichdi include gentle, digestive-friendly spices such as cumin, ginger, turmeric, and asafoetida (hing). These spices are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the digestive tract. For example, cumin aids digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes, while turmeric is known for reducing bloating and gas.
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Here's Why Poha Is Great For Digestion:
Poha's light texture, combined with its nutrient content, makes it easy on the stomach and promotes healthy digestive function.
1. Light And Easy To Digest
Poha is made from flattened rice, which is pre-cooked and then flattened. This process makes the rice easier to digest compared to regular rice. It requires less energy from the digestive system to break down, which is why it is often recommended for people with sensitive stomachs. The dish is light on the stomach and doesn't cause the bloating that can sometimes occur with heavier meals.
2. Rich In Fibre
While poha is primarily made of rice, it is often complemented with vegetables, peanuts, or peas, which contribute fibre to the dish. Fibre is essential for proper digestion because it helps in the smooth movement of food through the digestive tract. It adds bulk to the stool, preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements.
3. Supports Gut Health
The addition of ingredients like curry leaves, mustard seeds, and turmeric in poha can benefit the gut microbiome. Curry leaves, for example, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that support digestion. Mustard seeds help stimulate the production of bile, which aids in the digestion of fats. Turmeric is known for its ability to soothe the stomach lining and reduce bloating or indigestion.
4. Probiotic Benefits
In some regional variations, poha is prepared with fermented ingredients, such as curd or yoghurt, which introduce beneficial probiotics into the digestive system. Probiotics are live bacteria that help maintain the balance of good bacteria in the gut. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for efficient digestion, as it helps break down food and absorb nutrients effectively.
Which Is Better For Digestion: Khichdi Or Poha?
Both khichdi and poha are highly digestible meals that can support weight loss by promoting good digestion. However, khichdi is typically gentler on the stomach due to its simple combination of rice and lentils, making it ideal for individuals with digestive issues or those recovering from illness. Its high fibre and protein content also make it more filling, which can aid in appetite control and longer-lasting satiety. On the other hand, poha is lighter, quick to prepare, and provides a good source of iron and energy without overloading the stomach. It's great for boosting metabolism and heart health, making it a suitable choice for those looking for a lighter, yet nutritious option.
Also Read: 6 Poha Recipes You Can Make In 10 Minutes For A Quick Breakfast
Depending on your digestive needs and weight loss goals, you can incorporate either dish into your diet for a healthy meal. Whether you make them at home or order them online, they'll make for a great addition to your diet.
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