Kanji: A Fantastic Fermented Drink for Weight Loss
Today, let me share a personal revelation. I recently made Kanji, a traditional Indian fermented drink, for the first time in my life. Surprisingly, I found that Kanji can be a valuable addition to an Indian diet plan for weight loss. Despite witnessing its preparation yearly during Holi, I had never attempted to make it myself. As a child, I disliked Kanji due to its strong flavor, but as an adult, I decided to revisit it. After preparing and tasting it, I have grown to love Kanji and appreciate its numerous health benefits. Therefore, I have incorporated Kanji into my regular meal routine.
The Recipe
Preparing Kanji is a simple task that requires a fondness for healthy probiotic drinks and an understanding of how probiotics aid in weight management.
Ingredients
- Water
- Carrots (Black, red, or orange)
- Mustard seeds, 1 tablespoon (powder/paste) in any color (white, yellow, or black)
- Salt to taste (preferably Himalayan pink salt for better health benefits)
Recipe in Six Easy Steps
- Peel and slice two carrots and one beetroot lengthwise.
- Boil water and add the carrot and beetroot slices.
- Allow the water to cool with the vegetables.
- Include mustard powder or paste and salt.
- Transfer the mixture to a glass, earthenware, or ceramic jar.
Place the jar in sunlight or a warm area to ferment naturally.
Fermentation may take 2-3 days in summer and 4-5 days in winter. Shake the jar daily and stir at least once a day for optimal results.
Why You Should Drink Kanji!
Kanji is a probiotic drink with numerous health benefits:
Heart Health:
Kanji is a fat-free fermented drink that cleanses the blood and supports cardiovascular health by maintaining healthy arteries and blood vessels. Carrots and beetroots in Kanji contain antioxidants that help lower bad cholesterol levels.
Digestive Health:
Kanji’s probiotic content from the fermentation process promotes healthy gut bacteria, aiding digestion.
Immune System Boost:
Rich in Vitamin C, Kanji strengthens the body against bacterial and viral infections, supporting immunity, especially during cold seasons.
Eye Care:
Carrots in Kanji contain eye-health nutrients like Anthocyanins and Lutein, beneficial for vision and combating age-related eye issues.
Healthy Skin:
Kanji’s antioxidants contribute to radiant skin by preventing cell degeneration and slowing down skin aging, thanks to the Vitamin C content in carrots.
Weight Loss:
Kanji aids in digestion, boosts metabolism, and contains fiber, making it a valuable addition to a weight loss regimen. Incorporating Kanji as a snack or pre-meal drink can support weight loss efforts.
If you follow an Indian diet plan for diabetes or heart health, Kanji can be a nutritious mid-morning snack. It fits well into gluten-free diet plans.
Final Thoughts
When preparing Kanji, avoid adding chili powder or any ingredient of uncertain purity. Consider your glass of Kanji as a healthy, low-calorie drink that detoxifies your body. It’s best not to introduce more toxins while cleansing your system.
