Know Why the Humble Vegetable Lauki Has Become a Star to Fitness Enthusiasts
I have always admired my mother-in-law who looks much younger than her age and enjoys good health. I am convinced that the secret behind her active life even at this age is the glass of bottle gourd (lauki)juice that she has been drinking daily in the morning for the past fifteen years. She also grinds few leaves of tulsi, bel and kadipatta(curry leaves) and other available herbs along with the vegetable and seasons it with lime, pepper, salt and voila! the natural super health drink is ready What is it that makes lauki so beneficial for health? Let’s find out- Rich in vitamins and minerals Lauki is loaded with vitamins and minerals such as iron, sodium, potassium, to name a few. Include lauki in your diet and it will help you get the essential nutrients that your body requires. It also helps in maintaining the blood pressure level as well as the blood sugar level in the body. Helps in weight loss Bottle gourd is packed with dietary fibres which helps to keep you full for a longer time, thus curbing appetite. It contains fewer calories but is rich in nutrients making it an important food for weight loss. Relieves constipation Constipation is a common problem that affects people, but if left untreated, it may take more serious forms like piles and colon ailments. Incorporating bottle gourd in your diet in the form of juice or curries helps as it contains both soluble and insoluble dietary fibers that relieve symptoms of bloating and constipation. Reduces water retention A glass of lauki juice is said to ease the problems of flatulence and water retention. Since lauki is a diuretic, it flushes out excess water content from the body. Improves efficiency of liver Lauki is known to improve the efficiency of the liver and other vital organs. Not only does it reduce inflammation of the liver and improve its efficiency, but it also helps in flushing out toxins from the body. So, now you know why lauki or bottle gourd should be treated no less than a superfood.