Winter is here! Add amla to your diet in these 5 interesting ways

There’s a nip in the air, and that means winter is here with a bang! Those sweaters and hot chocolates, and cozy movie nights are so much fun, aren’t they? But this time of the year also brings with it a host of health challenges like dry skin, cold and cough, and other seasonal issues. No wonder, it is even more important to be mindful of your diet, and include nutrient-dense foods like amla. 

Also called the Indian gooseberry, this fruit is packed with vitamins C and A, polyphenol and flavonoids. Thanks to this reason, it is ideal to protect you from all kinds of infections. At the same time, it also strengthens the immune system.  A study published in the International Journal of Pharmaceuticals noted that amla has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent seasonal flu.

Furthermore, amla also helps in enhancing the health of your skin, and hydrates it. And if you are looking to stay in shape, there’s nothing better than this superfood, since it promotes weight loss. 

Now that you know how power-packed it is, what are some of the ways in which you can include it in your winter diet. Well, renowned nutritionist and author Kavita Devgan shares some tips with HealthShots. 

Here’s how you can make amla a part of your winter diet

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“You can grate a berry a day and add it to subzis and salads, or just chomp one every day. If you find it too sour, boil it with a little salt and turmeric, and consume it,” she says. 

Those who do not find these ways palatable can either enjoy amla pickle or juice, or even murabba, in case they have a sweet tooth. 

Devgan suggests trying a juice that has the power of both carrots and amla. “Carrots deliver loads of beta carotene, which gets converted into vitamin A in the body, a powerful phytonutrient that boosts production of infection-fighting natural killer cells and T-cells. The A and C combination makes it a win-win.”

There are also some other ways to consume this fruit, says Devgan. “Grind amla pieces and strain the juice. Add jaggery, cumin and pepper powder, and mix well,” she adds. 

You could also add amla to buttermilk, and put a pinch of cumin and pepper powder to it. “When the buttermilk has reduced to half, add salt to taste,” she concludes. 

So ladies, fill your grocery baskets with amla this winter, and keep infections at bay!