BlogchatterA2Z, Healthy Eating, Nutrition, Nutritious Food

N ~ Nutritious Foods for a Fit Lifestyle #BlogchatterA2Z

Kids often have a tendency to turn their noses to foods that are best for them. Moms, hence, have to get innovative to ensure that right and nutritious food finds it’s in way in their tummy. They experiment with novel ingredients, introduce new flavours and get creative with presentations. Naturally dominating colours like red of beetroot, green of spinach or yellow of mango further make ‘hiding’ easy and convenient.

Today we’re talking about healthy and indulgent food items that raise the nutritive value of everyday food. Interestingly, moderation comes into play for few of them.

Nutritious Foods for a Fit Lifestyle_AVIBRANTPALETTE

Nigella seeds/Kalonji

These cute little black pearly seeds are another commonly found ingredient in our kitchen. Although nigella seeds have traditionally been used as a spice they have many medicinal properties as well. They’re loaded with antioxidants that may help protect against diseases. Nigella seeds can protect your liver and help regulate blood sugar levels. They also have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and are good for your skin and hair.

Nigella seeds can be added whole or powdered to gravies. Naans and breads are almost always topped with kalonji seeds for flavour. Sprinkle them over your smoothies or yoghurt (raw or roasted) or add them to pickles.

Nutmeg/Jaiphal

Nutmeg is a warm spice and has a distinct nutty flavour. Though it owes its popularity to its wonderfully subtle aroma nutmeg has some impressive health benefits too. It can prevent cell damage due to the high content of antioxidants, phenolic compounds and plant pigments. It boosts heart health and helps control blood sugar levels. Nutmeg can also aid in reducing stress and improving your libido. It is also given in small quantities to babies to keep them warm and healthy.

Nutmeg is nutritious and used around the world in desserts like cakes, pies, custard and cookies. Indian sweet dishes aren’t complete without a pinch of nutmeg powder. You can also flavour your coffee, tea or smoothies with it.

Nutty bars

Nutty bars are a blessing and indulgence for weight watchers and kids alike. Interestingly, they have no specific ingredients or recipe which makes them versatile and open for experimentation. Oats, cornflakes, riceflakes, dry fruits like almonds, raisins, pistachios and flax seeds, sesame seeds, melon seeds etc are few choices one can go with. They’re highly nutritious and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, antioxidants and fiber. Natural sweeteners like jaggery and honey can further enhance their goodness quotient.

Nutty bars can be made in batches and stored for months in the refrigerator. You can pack them in your kids’ lunch-box or enjoy them as a pre-workout or afternoon snack. They can be munched upon on treks or while travelling.

Nachni (foxtail millet) is a superfood that’s packed with nutrients and can be consumed everyday. Naans with their smooth texture and earthy taste are love for foodies. Nachos with salsa and melted cheese toppings are a great party dish. Drooling, are you? 😉

This post is part of the #BlogchatterA2Z challenge by Blogchatter

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15 thoughts on “N ~ Nutritious Foods for a Fit Lifestyle #BlogchatterA2Z

  1. Nutmeg has many benefits..i was expecting nuts here 🙂 I rarely use Nigella except on Naan. Not too fond of nutri bars as well. Recently I ate Nachos Dahi chat…it was so yummm

  2. Nutty bars are my favorite, Nutmeg powder I always use in chai masala, puddings, and in cough remedy too.
    Nigella seeds taste great on naan, breads. Also nachni I have used as baby food too and still I prefer as its really a nutritious super food, one can even add nachni powder in daily atta dough too. And for sure just the name Nachos make me drool, as I love nachos platter with loaded cheese and salsa a lot. Am i sounding unhealthy with nachos and dips… hahaha

  3. Nachi is something that I started using recently in my day to day meal. yes, it is super healthy and taste good, when we make it with little variations and adding of proper spices. again great list dear from “N” nutritious food.

  4. Never knew about nutty bar. It looks highly nutritional. Kalindi I generally put in pickle and as you rightly said on naans . Thanks a lot for sharing all these benefits which I wasn’t aware off.

  5. I don’t use kalonji except for homemade pickles. Great to know its numerous health benefits through your post. Nutmeg powder is a recent addition to my pantry. I had been suggested to use it to cure a common cold and it worked well. Though I don’t make bars out of them, nuts are always a yes yes at my place. 

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