Mustard seeds are a common ingredient in cuisines worldwide. Despite being minutely sized, they are a powerhouse of nutrients. In Indian kitchens, these seeds don’t just enrich flavour; they bring several health benefits, too. Adding mustard seeds to your meals supports well-being in several ways. Let us learn more.
Nutritional value of mustard seeds
Mustard seeds are rich in nutrients. They contain:
- Plenty of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium that strengthen bones
- Selenium that fights harmful free radicals
- A good mix of protein, fibre, and good fats
- Several B vitamins and vitamin E for overall health
Significant benefits of mustard seeds
Some of the benefits of mustard seeds are:
- Fights inflammation: The mustard seed nutrients help calm inflammation in the body. This makes them helpful for relieving joint pain and swelling.
- Helps digestion: Thanks to their fibre content, mustard seeds keep your digestive system running smoothly. They prevent constipation, feed good gut bacteria, and help your body break down food better.
- Protects the heart: Making mustard seeds part of your regular diet supports heart health by bringing down harmful cholesterol, supporting better blood flow and helping maintain healthy blood pressure.
- Eases breathing: People with stuffy noses, sinus troubles, or asthma might find relief with mustard seeds, which help clear mucus and open breathing passages.
- Healthy skin: The vitamins and antioxidants in these tiny seeds fight skin ageing and help you maintain a healthier complexion.
- Soothes pain: When made into a paste or oil for external use, mustard seeds create a warming effect that eases sore muscles and stiff joints.
How to consume mustard seeds?
You can derive the health benefits of mustard seeds by consuming them in different forms, such as:
- Raw seeds: You can add a tempering or tadka of mustard seeds to your dals and curries either before or after preparing the dish. It can also be mixed into homemade pickles and chutneys, whisked into your salad dressing, or toasted lightly and scattered over cooked vegetables.
- Mustard oil: Oil prepared from mustard seeds can be used to prepare traditional dishes.
- Mustard paste: The seeds can be ground and used for marinades and curry bases. You can also try making Bengali-style kasundi or sauce for a flavour kick.
Importance of health insurance policy
While healthy eating habits form one part of staying well, health insurance plans provide essential financial protection in case of emergencies.
- They cover unexpected medical costs that could otherwise drain your savings.
- Ensure you get good care without financial stress.
- Pay for hospital stays, operations, and treatments.
- Give you confidence knowing you’re prepared for health emergencies.
With proper health insurance, your focus stays on recovery, not bills. One can also opt for individual health insurance that provides coverage for a single person’s medical emergency. It can be customised to meet specific needs.
FAQs
Q: Do mustard seeds help with weight?
A: They seem to. Mustard seeds can boost metabolism and help your body burn fat more effectively.
Q: Could mustard seeds cause any problems?
A: For most people, they’re perfectly safe. However, in excess quantities, they can upset the stomach. Also, if you have thyroid issues, consume them in smaller amounts.
Q: What is a reasonable daily amount?
A: About 1-2 teaspoons work well for most adults without causing any issues.
Q: Are they safe during pregnancy?
A: Normal amounts in cooking are generally fine, but check with your healthcare provider first.
Conclusion
Mustard seeds offer impressive benefits, from fighting inflammation to supporting heart health. Remember, though, no single food can work magic on its own. The best approach combines healthy eating, regular physical activity, enough rest, healthy stress management, and better health insurance plans. This well-rounded strategy helps protect your well-being today and tomorrow.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.