One dish Tamannaah Bhatia can have for both breakfast and lunch: ‘Plain poha, which doesn’t have too much going on’

Decoding the health benefits

According to consultant dietician and diabetes educator, Kanikka Malhotra, poha is a good source of carbohydrates, providing sustained energy. “The glycemic index (GI) of poha is generally considered to be in the low to medium range (between 38 and 64), depending on the thickness of the rice flakes and other ingredients used in preparation,” she says. This means it has a slower and more controlled impact on blood sugar levels compared to refined white rice.

Sprouts are termed as powerhouses of nutrition (Source: Freepik)

Meenu Balaji, Chief Nutritionist at Pragmatic Nutrition, Chennai told indianexpress.com that this is a great combination because you get to enjoy poha while moderately increasing the protein content. This helps by:

1. Increasing Satiety: More protein in the meal keeps you full longer. So you won’t be looking for a snack bite a short while after.

2. More Fibre: Sprouts also adds some amount of fiber to the poha. This again keeps you full and manages blood sugar levels. Healthy blood sugar levels also support weight loss.

3. Lower calories: 100g of sprouts gives around 30 Kcal, whereas 100g of poha contains 150 Kcal or more depending on how you prepare it.

‘So if you substitute poha with some amount of sprouts, you will eat the same quantity at fewer calories, and it makes for a healthier meal option compared to just poha,” she added.

“Sprouts are termed as powerhouses of nutrition. This is because the sprouts are rich in protein, fibre, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, calcium and phosphorus. Sprouting increases the bioavailability of these nutrients as well,” said Malhotra. She also mentioned that sprouts are also a good source of antioxidants and help in neutralizing the free radicals. Sprouts also have anti-cancer properties. It is also easier to grow and is relatively inexpensive too. The essential fatty acid content of sprouts also increases with germination.

“However, remember to boil the sprouts and include moderate amounts. Since, many people find it hard to digest large amount of sprouts,” she said, adding that raw or uncooked sprouts, in particular, can cause food poisoning in those with autoimmune conditions and low immunity including children and the elderly. They’re also high in protein and fiber, so those with weaker kidneys should be careful as well.

Moreover, Balaji mentioned that this combination alone won’t help with weight loss. “You will have to continue making healthy food choices and exercise regularly, along with focusing on stress and sleep,” she said, adding that weight loss is not a one meal thing, you need a multi faceted approach to it.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.