What happens to your body when you have momos daily

Even the healthiest versions of momos eaten daily can crowd out other important food groups, depriving the body of essential foods and nutrients.

When consumed daily, momos can lead to bloating, sluggish digestion, and nutrient imbalance

Pick any metropolitan city and you will find that momos, the steamy bundle of flavourful joy, are everywhere. What began as a delicacy from Nepal and Tibet has now become a staple street food in Indian cities like Delhi. Multiple variations have taken over eateries: steamed, fried, achari, Afghani, peri peri, tandoori… the list is endless. These tempting finger foods often slip into many food-lovers’ daily routines. However, as irresistible as they may be, nutritionists do not exactly approve of the habit.

“Eating momos every day can have negative effects on health, especially if they are made with refined flour (maida) and filled with processed ingredients,” says Dr Anjana Kalia, Ayurvedic doctor and nutritionist at Bloom Clinix. Momos, she explains, are high in carbohydrates but low in essential nutrients, fibre and protein. When eaten daily, they can lead to bloating, sluggish digestion and nutrient imbalance. The sauces served alongside — often loaded with sodium and unhealthy fats — can further strain digestion and cardiovascular health.

Many Indianised varieties of momos, such as tandoori and achari, have now gained immense popularity in metropolitan cities

Common side effects

According to Dr Kalia, regular consumption of momos can lead to acidity, bloating and constipation due to the low fibre content in maida. Over time, frequent intake also increases calorie load without offering much nutrition, which can contribute to gradual weight gain. “The high-sodium sauces and trans-fat-rich fillings can raise blood pressure and disturb cholesterol control,” she adds.

In the long run, this habit can also interfere with long-term weight and sugar balance. “Since they are high in refined carbs and low in protein, momos can cause rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar levels. Over time, this reduces insulin sensitivity and may elevate LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol, especially when they are fried or eaten with oily sauces,” notes Dr Kalia.

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Is there any healthier momo type?

Wheat or millet based momos are a healthier altenative to traditional ones made of white flour (photo: unsplash)

“Steamed momos are definitely a better option,” says Dr Kalia, explaining that they contain fewer calories and less unhealthy fat compared to fried versions. However, even steamed momos made with maida are not ideal for daily eating. The real difference, she emphasises, depends on the ingredients and portion size — not just the cooking method.

What about non-maida momos? “Switching to wheat or millet-based momos is certainly a better choice,” Dr Kalia agrees. They are higher in fibre, vitamins and minerals. “However, even the healthiest version eaten daily can crowd out other important food groups — balance and moderation still matter,” she cautions.

She advises treating momos as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily ritual. “Enjoy them once or twice a week, opt for steamed, and pair them with soup or salad to feel full. Making momos at home with whole grains, lean protein and vegetables is the best way to enjoy them without harming long-term health,” Dr Kalia says.

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