Ganesh Chaturthi is a major Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha. The 10-day festival sees devotees offering the deity with “Modak” as Prasad. Modaks are of two varieties: the steamed Modaks and the deep-fried Modaks. The most popular one is the steamed Modaks, commonly called Ukdiche Modak.
Ingredients like ground rice, Jaggery/sugar, ghee, groundnuts, and dried fruits are used in the preparation of Ukdiche Modak. It is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients.
Health benefits of each of the ingredients used in Ukdiche Modak.
Ghee: Is used in Indian cooking and ayurvedic preparations since olden times. Ghee helps fight constipation. It is rich in Butyric Acid, which helps the body in producing T cells that fight diseases. It is rich in Vitamin K, which helps in calcium absorption. It helps in the prevention of tooth decay and prevents atherosclerosis. Ghee consumption increases appetite in kids.
Coconuts: Coconut is high in fat and calories while moderate in carbs and protein. Most of these fats are Medium-chain triglycerides(MCTs). Manganese and antioxidants in coconut may help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. Coconut may lower your fasting Blood sugar and alter your gut bacteria to aid blood sugar control.
Jaggery: Jaggery is loaded with antioxidants and minerals like zinc and selenium, helps prevent free-radicals(responsible for early aging). It helps boost resistance against infections, hence building strong immunity. It is a good source of potassium that helps balance electrolytes, boosting metabolism as well as building muscles. Jaggery is rich in both iron and folate, hence helps prevent anemia. Jaggery is a natural cleansing agent, especially for the liver. The natural sweetener helps flush out harmful toxins from one’s body. Antioxidants and minerals like selenium and zinc present in jaggery help boost immunity.
Rice: Rice serves as a good source of B vitamins (including thiamin, niacin, and riboflavin) and iron. Rice is also an excellent source of manganese and magnesium.
The steam-cooked modak containing ground rice, ghee, coconut, jaggery is medium to low on the glycemic index.
Modak’s consumed in limited amount may help fight constipation, lower blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and also help in weight loss.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.