Fig is native to the Middle East and western Asia. It is believed to be the first ever fruit tree that was cultivated by man. Fig is the only plant source rich in calcium and fiber.
Paneer is a fresh cheese of Indian origin. It is an un-aged, acid-set, non-melting crude cheese made by curdling heated milk with vinegar, lemon juice or any other food acid. Paneer is a rich source of protein and is used as a meat substitute in many Indian dishes. It is also a rich source of energy, fat, calcium and phosphorous.
Bones are made up of the mineral, calcium phosphate that makes up most of their mass. But, this calcium has to be supplied by our diet. In order to meet the calcium requirements of our body, we need to include calcium-rich foods in our diet. Sadly, three out of four adults fail to meet the current recommended daily intake of calcium. And, it is estimated that more than 80% of young women and teenagers are not consuming enough calcium. Bone growth requires a good amount of calcium starting from the teen years and extending up to the age of 35.
Over the weekend that passed, I addressed 2 different groups of people (Food Lovers Club and Runners High) on nutrition and health.
Methi roti is an easy to make recipe and is a good source of minerals. Methi is known for its iron and calcium content. Most of us ignore the importance of adding greens in our diet, as we either take them for granted or have too many other interesting foods to eat. Here is a simple way to include them in your daily diet, so you can reap its benefits.
A nutritious snack for your kids with paneer stuffed and sandwiched between two layers of yam with the tangy flavor of lemon juice and crunchy peanuts and green chutney. Paneer is an excellent source of protein and calcium. Its one of the best ways to incorporate milk products in your diet, as many people love it! Yam is a good source of carbohydrates, fibre and vitamins. Method
For the tempering
1. Heat the oil in a small pan, add the mustard seeds and sesame seeds.
2. When the seeds crackle, add the asafoetida, chilli powder and curry leaves and sauté on a medium flame for 30 seconds. Keep aside.
Palak paneer, just the name makes us feel ymmmmm!! Most of us think it is very nutritious as it has both calcium rich paneer and iron rich green leafy vegetables. No doubt it's tasty but let me tell you it's not as nutritious as we think. Spinach (Palak) also has high calcium content. However, the oxalate content in spinach also binds with calcium, decreasing its absorption. Calcium and zinc also limit iron absorption. The calcium in spinach is the least bioavailable form of calcium sources. By way of comparison, the body can absorb about half of the calcium present in broccoli, yet only around 5% of the calcium in spinach.
Yogurt is a dairy product produced by bacterial fermentation of milk. Fermentation of lactose by the bacteria produces lactic acid, which acts on milk protein to give yogurt its texture and its characteristic tang. Yogurt is considered to be a nutritious snack that is available year-round. Yogurt is a rich source of over ten essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorous, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin B12, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B5, zinc, potassium and protein.
Try this magical tonic for strong bones! The milk…The broccoli and… The Walnuts… They all provide plentiful calcium necessary for development and growth of the bones. Furthermore, walnuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acid that not only protect your heart but also gives you a wonderful skin.
When I take group sessions on nutrition, I’m often asked about the importance of calcium supplements. Are calcium tablets needed, how much calcium should I eat, doesn’t every woman need calcium after 30 years of age to prevent osteoporosis, etc, etc. You don’t need supplements if there’s adequate calcium in your diet and you are not deficient in this mineral. Osteoporosis (commonly referred to as porous bones) refers to weak bones with a higher tendency to break or fracture. Lack of calcium and vitamin D, family history, early menopause, smoking, excessive alcohol, lack of exercise, excess intake of carbonated beverages and caffeine, extreme weight loss programs, are some of the risk factors for osteoporosis.