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From supporting digestion to improving heart health, this tiny marvel can do wonders that we haven’t imagined.
Munakka, also known as black raisin, is a delicious and nutritious superfood that offers a range of health benefits. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this small, sweet, brown nut contributes to overall well-being. Moreover, its chewy, fleshy texture and the presence of seeds make it a unique addition to any food. From supporting digestion to improving heart health, this tiny marvel can do wonders that we haven’t imagined.
Let’s explore how to consume this superfood and the benefits of incorporating munakka into your diet.
How to Consume Munakka
The easiest way to consume munakka is by soaking five munakkas in water overnight and then eating them on an empty stomach the next morning. Soaking enhances their nutrient absorption and makes them easier to digest.
You can also wash the munakka thoroughly with water. Then, remove the seeds and arrange 5 to 10 munakka in a skewer. Roast it on a medium flame for 2 to 3 minutes from all sides. Now, transfer it onto a plate, sprinkle some black salt and pepper, mix well, and enjoy.
Health Benefits of Munakka:
- Boosts Immunity: The primary benefits of eating Munakka is that it helps boost immunity. Rich in antioxidants, it helps protect the body from harmful free radicals and prevent potential infections. Regular consumption can keep common diseases like colds and flu at bay. Additionally, it contains iron, calcium, and vitamin C, which play a key role in strengthening the immune system.
- Regulates blood sugar levels: Another benefit of consuming munakka in both males and females is that it helps regulate blood sugar levels. Despite their natural sweetness, these raisins have a low glycaemic index, and it can help regulate blood sugar levels when eaten in moderation. In a study published in 2017, consuming munakka helped lower blood sugar levels when compared to other carbohydrate-rich snacks.
- Improves Bone Health: Due to the rich boron and calcium content, munakka helps strengthen bones. Boron helps in bone formation and enhances calcium absorption, while the potassium in it helps in bone growth and prevents osteoporosis.
- Aids in Digestive Health: These raisins, well known for their laxative properties, make it an effective remedy for constipation. Furthermore, it is also rich in dietary fibre, which helps promote smooth digestion and prevents bloating. It stimulates digestive health by softening stools and aiding regular bowel movements.
- Lower Blood Pressure: Starting your day with soaked munakka can support heart health naturally. Munakka contains potassium and magnesium, which help regulate blood pressure and reduce bad cholesterol (LDL). The consumption of these raisins also helps clean out the deposited plaque in arteries, which further reduces LDL cholesterol. Furthermore, munakka contains a resveratrol compound, a natural antioxidant, which helps prevent inflammation in cells.
- Good for Weight Loss: If you’re looking to shed those extra kilos, consuming munakka before meals helps regulate appetite and aids weight loss. Due to the high fibre content and natural sweetness, munakka helps prevent hunger pangs by keeping you feeling full, slowing down the digestion process, and controlling sweet cravings.
- Benefit the skin and hair health: Want glowing skin and luscious hair? Add Munakka to your diet. Packed with skin-friendly nutrients like antioxidants, vitamins, and iron, it improves blood circulation and helps in cell regeneration that fights the signs of ageing and promotes a healthy and glowing complexion. Additionally, the iron content helps in the production of collagen, which maintains the skin’s elasticity. Munakka also reduces hair fall by nourishing hair follicles and boosting haemoglobin levels.
- Improves Dental Health: Another benefit of consuming munakka is better dental health. Packed with calcium, this superfood helps remineralise dental enamel and reduce swollen teeth and gums. Moreover, it has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that help prevent the formation of cavities while also removing the bacteria or microorganisms that cause tooth decay and cavities.