The Indian Gooseberry, popularly known as Amla, is known for its rejuvenating properties and health benefits. Although bitter and sour in taste, this berry is highly fibrous and a rich source of Vitamin C. The content of Vitamin C in Amla is 20 times higher than what is present in an orange. Additionally, Amla also contains numerous medicinal properties. For this reason, it is also used widely in Ayurveda.
Amla As An Essential Part of Your Diet
Including Amla in your daily diet can offer visible health benefits. Additionally, it also includes beauty benefits and not to forget the numerous antioxidant properties, as well. Amla has a very strong taste that one has to acquire. So, here are some easy and tasty ways to include this nutritious and healthy fruit in your daily diet.
Amla Juice
Popular with many Indians, Amla juice is the easiest way to consume this berry and enjoy its numerous health benefits. You can get these berries easily from a grocery store. There are numerous brands that provide Amla juice in safe and hygienic packaging. Go for a brand that provides Amla juice with little or no added flavor, sugar and preservatives.
Eat It Raw
Any health food provides best benefits if consumed in its natural raw form. Many of you might find it difficult to eat raw Amla due to its sour and bitter taste. The tangy effect of Amla stays quite long in the mouth. Well, if a little compromise with taste is worth the health benefits provided by Amla then why shouldn’t you do it? Just remember the taste of this fruit can be improved with a pinch of salt. Salt will cut down the bitterness and astringent taste of the Amla, thereby making it easier to eat. Besides, you can also sip up water after eating. This would convert Amla’s sourness into sweetness!
Amla Chutney
For those, who love spicy food, this is probably the best way to add Amla to their daily diet. The spicy kick of the chutney will enhance the taste of this fruit, thereby overcoming its characteristic taste. You can combine the chutney with any food or vegetable and enjoy its taste and health benefits. Amla chutney can be made at home. It also is available ready-made. It is best to go for a brand that contains less salt, sugar, flavor enhancers and preservatives to get the most out of the chutney.
Amla Candy
Commonly referred as Amla murabba, this is a traditional and also the best way of adding Amla to your diet. Amla murabba has a sweet and sour taste. It is generally consumed in winters for health and fitness. Dry Amla candies are also available at stores. These dry candies are popular among kids.
Amla Pickles
Another interesting way to enhance the taste of Amla is preparing Amla pickle. This spicy and tangy treat can complement any dish. Amla pickles are easily available in stores. However, you can also prepare it at home with your special recipe and according to your taste preferences.
Amla Capsules
This is probably the easiest way to consume Amla for its health benefits. Various nutraceutical companies now package the goodness of Amla in capsule form, which has a high content of beta glucogallin and antioxidant tannins. You can have one capsule twice a day for effective results. Taking them before a meal helps in improving digestion along with providing the extensive nutritional benefits of Amla. However, there’s nothing like going for fresh Amla in its natural form.
Amla Powder
Organic Amla powder is another convenient way to add this berry in your daily diet. You can begin by taking small amounts and gradually increasing it over time. Have it before meals or before workouts for best results. This will help improve digestion and treat acidity and acid reflux as well. Additionally, you can also sprinkle the Amla powder on salads and fruit salads, or add to your veggies while cooking them. This would add a unique taste to your preparations and provide various health benefits as well.
While it can be tricky to incorporate Amla into your daily diet, it isn’t impossible. Use these tips to make this nutritious fruit a part of your daily meal plan and enjoy optimal health.