Rich in nutritional content and antioxidant properties, Bathua is a delicious leafy green winter vegetable which can be enjoyed in a variety of recipes.
Winter is here, and with it comes an abundance of fresh green veggies at farmer’s markets and grocery stores. To keep those winter colds and flu at bay, including green vegetables into your diet is a must. While we all love the familiar methi, palak, and sarso, there’s another winter green you shouldn’t miss—bathua. This under-the-radar veggie is packed with nutrients that are perfect for the colder months. Not only is bathua incredibly healthy, but it also tastes delicious, making it a fantastic addition to your winter meals.
Bathua leaves, or Chenopodium album, are a hidden gem packed with nutrients that can supercharge your health. These leaves are a fantastic source of protein, offering around 4.2 grams per 100 grams. What’s more, they contain a full range of amino acids, like leucine and lysine.
In terms of vitamins, bathua leaves shine with a rich supply of A, C, and K. Just 100 grams gives you a whopping 10,000 IU of vitamin A—three times the recommended daily intake! They also provide essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron.
Bathua has high fiber content and can regulate bowel movements. Plus, they’re loaded with antioxidants. And let’s not forget the bonus: bathua contains phytochemicals like flavonoids and saponins.
Feel Lighter with Improved Digestion
Bathua, with its impressive fiber content and high water levels, is a true ally for your digestive system. It works wonders in tackling constipation and even helps with issues like loose motions. By promoting smooth bowel movements, Bathua keeps your intestinal health in check. For maximum benefits, try drinking Bathua leaf juice on an empty stomach—it’s a great way to kickstart your digestive system and keep things running smoothly throughout the day.
Slim Down the Healthy Way
Packed with fiber, vitamins, and water, Bathua supports weight loss by keeping you full and hydrated. Not only is it low in calories, but it also boasts potassium, magnesium, zinc, amino acids, and iron. These nutrients help lower cholesterol, boost your immunity, and make it easier to adapt to seasonal changes.
Detox Your Body, Flush Out Toxins
Bathua is great for skin health! It works wonders by purifying your blood. By detoxifying your blood, Bathua helps to reveal clear, glowing skin. For optimal results, consider adding Bathua juice to your daily routine. The consistent intake of this natural wonder can bring noticeable improvements to your complexion, giving you that flawless skin you’ve been craving.
Give Your Eyes the Care They Deserve
In today's digital age, both kids and adults are glued to screens for hours, which can lead to poor eyesight from a young age. A deficiency in zinc can worsen this problem, but here's some good news—bathua is rich in both zinc and iron, which play a crucial role in improving eye health. This plant not only serves as a tasty, nutritious addition to your meals but also acts as a natural remedy to protect and enhance your vision.
Keep Your Bones Strong and Teeth Bright
Bathua, also known as lamb’s quarters, is a powerhouse of nutrition packed with vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones and teeth. This leafy green is not only a great antioxidant but also has anti-inflammatory properties. If you’ve recently had an accident, the high vitamin C content in Bathua can help speed up the healing process by promoting the repair of blood vessels and capillaries. Drinking Bathua juice regularly is a fantastic way to boost your vitamin intake while enjoying its other health benefits, like improving skin and overall vitality.
The Secret to Lustrous Locks
If you're struggling with hair fall, this leafy green might be just the remedy you need. Hair loss is often due to nutrient deficiencies, but Bathua is loaded with almost every nutrient your body craves. Its high zinc and iron content promotes healthy hair growth, while also making your strands soft, shiny, and full of life. It’s like a natural hair treatment, giving your hair the nourishment it needs to thrive.
Flavorful Bathua Recipes to Try
Drinking bathua juice on an empty stomach can work wonders for your digestion, giving your body a natural boost.
During the winter months, it’s common in Indian households to enjoy bathua parathas—soft flatbreads made by mixing the greens with wheat flour and a dollop of ghee or butter.
For a hearty lunch, bathua can be paired with rice in a delicious dal or transformed into a refreshing raita that not only aids in digestion but also helps keep your body hydrated.
It’s a green that fits perfectly into various meals, offering both nutrition and taste.
