Winter is a season that calls for warmth and nourishment, making it the perfect time to incorporate traditional recipes into our diets. One such age-old remedy that holds a special place in many Indian households is gond raab. Made from gond (edible gum derived from the sap of Acacia trees), this winter delicacy is known for its numerous health benefits. Gond raab, often prepared with milk, jaggery, and nuts, is not just a delicious treat but also a powerhouse of nutrients.
1. Boosts Immunity
Winters often bring with them a rise in seasonal illnesses such as colds and flu. Gond raab, enriched with the goodness of edible gum, acts as a natural immunity booster. Edible gum is a source of polysaccharides that can enhance the body's defence mechanism. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Functional Foods highlighted the immune-modulating properties of polysaccharides, demonstrating their ability to stimulate immune cells. Adding ingredients like jaggery and almonds further enriches gond raab with essential minerals like iron and zinc, which are crucial for maintaining a robust immune system.
2. Strengthens Bones and Joints
The cold weather can exacerbate joint pain and stiffness, particularly in older adults. Gond raab is celebrated for its ability to strengthen bones and lubricate joints. Edible gum is rich in calcium, magnesium, and protein, which are vital for bone health. A study conducted by the International Journal of Nutrition Sciences in 2019 found that regular consumption of calcium-rich foods, including edible gum, helped improve bone density and reduced the risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of nuts like walnuts and cashews, often added to gond raab, make it beneficial for individuals suffering from arthritis.
Also read: Winter Health Alert: Orthopaedic Issues To Watch Out For And Preventive Tips
3. Provides Energy and Warmth
Winters often lead to reduced activity levels and a drop in energy. Gond raab acts as a natural energy booster, thanks to its high calorific value. Jaggery, a common sweetener in this preparation, is an unrefined sugar that provides slow-releasing energy, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. Moreover, edible gum’s unique property of generating warmth in the body makes it particularly effective in combating the harsh winter chill. A 2020 study in the Asian Journal of Ethnopharmacology noted that traditional foods like gond raab significantly improved energy levels and reduced fatigue during colder months.
4. Improves Digestive Health
Gond raab is known for its soothing effect on the digestive system. The fibre content in edible gum aids in promoting healthy digestion and preventing constipation, a common winter complaint. Milk, another key ingredient in gond raab, is a natural probiotic that supports gut health by enhancing the growth of beneficial bacteria. Additionally, the warming spices like cardamom and nutmeg, often used in the preparation of gond raab, have carminative properties that prevent bloating and indigestion.
Also read: Winters And Digestion Problems Go Hand in Hand: Tips To Handle Indigestion With Exercises
5. Supports Skin and Hair Health
Winter air is notorious for its drying effects on the skin and hair. Gond raab, rich in collagen-boosting properties, helps maintain skin elasticity and prevents dryness. The presence of nuts and milk ensures a steady supply of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and proteins that nourish the skin and hair from within. A study published in the Journal of Dermatological Research in 2018 found that diets enriched with natural oils and proteins improved skin hydration and reduced flakiness during winters.
6. Promotes Postpartum Recovery
In many cultures, gond raab is traditionally given to new mothers to aid postpartum recovery. Its nutrient-rich composition helps replenish lost energy, supports lactation, and strengthens the body after childbirth. The anti-inflammatory and healing properties of gond also make it effective in promoting overall recovery during this delicate phase.
How to Include Gond Raab in Your Diet
Making gond raab is simple. Heat edible gum in ghee until it puffs up, then mix it with milk, jaggery, and a variety of nuts. Add a pinch of cardamom or saffron for flavour and enhanced health benefits. Consuming a small bowl of gond raab in the morning or as an evening snack can keep you warm and energised throughout the day.
Conclusion
Gond raab is much more than a traditional winter delicacyit is a nutritional powerhouse that supports immunity, bone health, and overall well-being. Backed by scientific research and centuries of tradition, this wholesome preparation deserves a place in your winter diet. So, the next time the temperature dips, treat yourself to a bowl of gond raab and relish its health-boosting goodness.