Ridge gourd, also known as 'turai' or 'peerkangai,' is a versatile vegetable commonly used in Indian cuisine. With its mild, zucchini-like flavour and spongy texture, it’s a favourite among many. Packed with dietary fibre, vitamin C, and zinc, ridge gourd is a true nutritional powerhouse. It supports overall health by aiding digestion, boosting immune function, and promoting better vision. Additionally, its ability to absorb flavours makes it a perfect addition to stir-fries, curries, and soups.
What are the health benefits of ridge gourd?
Let’s explore the impressive health benefits of ridge gourd and discover how it’s not only a treat for your taste buds but also a powerhouse for your well-being:
- Improves vision: Ridge gourd is rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This component is crucial to maintain healthy eyesight. Eating it regularly helps prevent issues such as macular degeneration and vitamin A deficiency—these can cause blindness.
- Remedies anemia: Ridge gourd is high in iron and vitamin B6. It aids in the synthesis of haemoglobin, which transports oxygen all around the body. Including it in your diet will help fight anaemia and increase your energy level.
- Promotes weight loss: This vegetable is low in calories yet high in fibre, which makes it a good pick for weight loss diets. It also helps keep you full longer without contributing excess calories—this aids in weight management and obesity prevention.
- Relieves constipation: Ridge gourd's high fibre content improves digestion and aids in regular bowel movements. It naturally helps with digestive issues like constipation.
- Protects liver function: Ridge gourd has detoxifying properties that help cleanse the liver and improve its functions. It helps eliminate toxins from the body and ensures that the liver operates efficiently.
- Manages diabetes symptoms: Ridge gourd's fibrous nature makes it beneficial for diabetics. It helps with lowering blood sugar levels by slowing how quickly glucose is absorbed from food.
- Revitalises skin texture: Ridge gourd has a lot of water content and high levels of vitamins C and E. All these components fight ageing symptoms and help the skin stay hydrated. Consuming ridge gourd regularly can lead to healthier and more vibrant skin.
- Lowers body heat: The ridge gourd has a cooling effect on the body, which makes it particularly beneficial during the hot summer months. It lowers body temperature and guards against heat-related illnesses.
Conclusion
Including ridge gourd in your daily meals can improve your health significantly. A diet enriched with such nutritious vegetables can lead to better long-term health outcomes. Making wise choices about your diet can help you effectively manage your wellness.
However, in addition to a healthy and balanced diet, it is necessary to acquire a comprehensive health insurance plan that affords access to preventative care and covers the costs associated with medical emergencies, thereby supporting complete wellness and efficient recovery.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.