Vegetables are a staple of Indian cuisine. From simple salads to hearty curries, they are enjoyed in a variety of ways. Along with being versatile, vegetables are also packed with numerous vital nutrients. Cabbage, cauliflower, okra, bottle gourd, bitter gourd, capsicum, eggplant, and ivy gourds are some of the most consumed vegetables in India.
When it comes to leafy greens, spinach, mustard greens, amaranth saag, moringa, and arbi leaves are our top choices. But have you ever heard of kulfa saag? Also known as purslane leaves, it is a kind of weed that is loaded with various nutrients. It is usually eaten as bhaji, paratha, or kadhi and is also added to lentil recipes.
Here are five reasons to add kulfa saag to your diet:
Improves Heart Health
According to WebMD, purslane is very beneficial for cardiovascular health. Due to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, consuming kulfa saag can reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other heart diseases. This leafy green is also high in antioxidants that prevent cellular damage caused by free radicals.
Helps In Weight Management
If you are planning a weight-loss journey, then kulfa saag is a great addition to your diet. According to HealthifyMe, purslane contains approximately 93% water and plenty of essential nutrients like vitamin C, iron, calcium, and magnesium that aid in weight loss. It is also low in calories.
Good For Bones
Calcium and magnesium are essential minerals for bone health, and purslane is rich in both of them. According to WebMD, getting both of these nutrients in the ideal amount will improve skeletal health and prevent the risk of weak bones leading to osteoporosis.
Promotes Skin Health
Purslane is dense in antioxidants that stimulate collagen production. Collagen is known to reduce wrinkles and maintain skin elasticity. The ideal amount of vitamin A present in this vegetable is also beneficial for several skin problems, like scars and allergies.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Kulfa saag is known to control blood sugar levels, which is necessary for diabetic patients. According to HealthifyMe, it contains polyunsaturated fatty acids, flavonoids, and polysaccharides that are beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes. Adding kulfa saag to your daily diet can also help manage your blood pressure levels.