Sabja or basil seeds – one of the commonly found elements in kulfi faloodas, are known for their cooling properties during the summer season. Used widely in various cooling summer drinks like watermelon juice, lemonade and rose milk, the seeds are powerhouses of nutrition and innumerable benefits for both, men and women. When soaked in water overnight, the nutritional properties are activated, thereby helping those who suffer from digestive issues and excessive hot flushes, to name a few.
For women’s health, various factors like menstruation, fertility, menopause and external factors determine the level of well-being. Including foods that are rich in minerals and calcium, that also help regulate blood pressure, hormonal imbalances and mood swings become of prime importance as they tend to usually have higher functioning capacities on an everyday basis, when compared to men. So, eating a healthy serving of nuts and seeds that provide good fats, nutrients, calcium and minerals is crucial. Here are seven reasons why you should include sabja seeds in your diet.
Hormonal Balance
Sabja seeds contain compounds that may help regulate hormones, which can be especially beneficial for women dealing with hormonal imbalances during various life stages, such as menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. Consuming soaked sabja seeds mixed with cold milk is proven to be beneficial in combating heartburn during pregnancy stages.
Weight Management
Sabja seeds can absorb water and expand in the stomach, which may promote a feeling of fullness and reduce calorie intake, aiding in weight management and preventing overeating. Women often tend to experience bloating as a result of water retention, and consuming a spoonful of soaked sabja seeds with water, milk or juice can aid in feeling full as well as preventing overeating.
Digestive Health
Basil seeds are rich in dietary fibre, which help prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements. As good digestion is essential for overall health and well-being, sabja seeds ease all kinds of digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion and even soothes food poisoning side-effects.
Skin Health
Sabja seeds are rich in antioxidants that may help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to healthier, glowing skin, which many women desire. The anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties of the seeds also offer fortification against potential skin infections and irritation. The basil seeds are also used widely in the treatment of skin ailments like psoriasis and eczema.
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Menstrual Relief
Some women find relief from menstrual discomfort, such as cramps and bloating, by consuming sabja seeds. The seeds' anti-inflammatory properties helps in alleviating pre-menstrual syndrome as well as lowering the levels of oestrogen, that might cause over boarding and excessive bleeding for women during their monthly cycle.
Bone Health
Sabja seeds are an excellent source of calcium, is crucial for maintaining strong bones. Women, as they age, are at a higher risk of osteoporosis, making dietary calcium intake important. Apart from including a generous serving of dairy products, eating calcium-rich foods like sabja seeds help in increasing bone density and soothe osteoporosis aches.
Controls Blood Sugar
There is some evidence to suggest that sabja seeds may help regulate blood sugar levels. Stable blood sugar levels are essential for preventing diabetes and maintaining overall health. When soaked sabja seeds are consumed by diabetic women, it has known to show effective results in reducing the spike in blood sugar levels as well as maintaining optimum levels in Type 2 diabetic patients.