Papad, a popular Indian snack made from lentil, chickpea, or rice flour, is not only a tasty treat but also has several health benefits. From being rich in protein and fibre to containing anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants, papad can be a healthy addition to your diet. In this article, we will explore the health benefits of papad in detail.

Papad, also known as papadum, is a thin, crispy, and flavourful Indian wafer made from lentil, chickpea, or rice flour. It is a popular snack and accompaniment to meals in Indian cuisine. It is usually roasted or fried before being served, and can be flavoured with spices, herbs, or vegetables. Papad is not only delicious but also has several health benefits that make it a healthy addition to your diet.

Rich in protein and fibre

Papad is made from lentil or chickpea flour, which are both rich sources of protein and fibre. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, while fibre helps in digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer. A single papad can provide up to 4 grams of protein and 1 gram of fibre, making it a healthy snack that can help you meet your daily nutrient requirements.

Low in calories

Papad is a low-calorie snack that can be a healthy alternative to high-calorie snacks like chips or fries. A single papad contains only around 25-30 calories, making it an excellent snack for weight loss or weight management. You can enjoy papad with a low-calorie dip like salsa or hummus to make it even healthier.

Rich in vitamins and minerals

Papad is a rich source of vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells and helps prevent anaemia, while calcium is important for strong bones and teeth. Magnesium helps regulate blood pressure and maintain heart health. A single papad can provide up to 10% of your daily iron requirement and 2-3% of your daily calcium and magnesium requirements.

Gluten-free

Papad made from lentil or chickpea flour is gluten-free, which means it is an excellent snack for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, which can cause digestive issues and other health problems in people with gluten intolerance. Papad made from rice flour may contain gluten, so it is important to check the ingredients before consuming it if you have gluten intolerance.

Low in fat

Papad is a low-fat snack that can be a healthy alternative to high-fat snacks like potato chips or fried chicken. A single papad contains only around 1-2 grams of fat, making it an excellent snack for people trying to reduce their fat intake. You can also opt for roasted papad instead of fried papad to make it even healthier.

Helps in digestion

Papad contains digestive enzymes that can help in digestion and reduce bloating and constipation. The spices and herbs used to flavour papad, like cumin, fennel, and ajwain, also have digestive properties and can help relieve digestive issues. However, it is important to consume papad in moderation as overconsumption can lead to indigestion and other digestive issues.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Papad made from lentil or chickpea flour contains anti-inflammatory compounds like polyphenols and flavonoids that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to several health problems, like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Consuming papad regularly as a part of a healthy diet can help reduce inflammation in the body and prevent these health problems.

Source of antioxidants

Papad made from lentil or chickpea flour is a rich source of antioxidants that can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to several health problems like cancer, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases. Antioxidants like polyphen.

In conclusion, papad is not just a delicious snack but also a healthy one. It is a rich source of protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, and contains anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants that can benefit your health in several ways. However, it is important to consume papad in moderation and opt for healthier cooking methods like roasting instead of frying. By incorporating papad into your diet as a healthy snack, you can enjoy its flavour while reaping its health benefits.

In addition to papad, pickles are another traditional Indian food that has numerous health benefits. Pickles are a rich source of antioxidants, can improve digestion, and may even have anti-inflammatory properties. To learn more about the art of pickling and how to make your own pickles at home, be sure to checkout our latest blog. By incorporating both papad and pickles into your diet, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of traditional Indian cuisine while also reaping their many health benefits.