From truffles and breads to fried snacks and pasta, maida (refined flour) is utilized in most of our consolation meals. You will need to have heard maida just isn’t good for the physique. Edwina Raj, medical nutritionist at Aster CMI Hospital, confirmed this, and stated maida is extremely processed and devoid of vitamins. “Maida could cause blood sugar spikes and digestive points,” she stated.
To make sure higher well being, it is very important perceive the adverse results of maida and discover options which can be nutrient-rich and versatile.
Perceive why these options are higher. (Supply-Freepik)
Listed below are the highest options to maida:
Complete Wheat Flour: Probably the most accessible choices in Indian kitchens, complete wheat flour is a good on a regular basis substitute for maida. “Complete wheat flour is the closest swap for maida. It affords extra fibre, vitamins, and is healthier to your intestine. It really works nice in rotis, parathas, breads, and even truffles with a barely nutty flavour. Bonus––it retains you full longer, serving to with weight administration,” Raj stated, including you’ll be able to even combine wheat and different flours in a 50:50 ratio to boost the style and texture.
Almond Flour: Raj stated that almond flour is gluten-free and filled with wholesome fat, making it a favorite in low-carb and keto circles. Constructed from finely crushed almonds, it offers baked objects a phenomenal richness. “Think about cookies, pancakes, and even brownies with a touch of nutty flavour. It’s additionally a win for coronary heart well being,” she stated.
Oat Flour: Oat flour might be simply made at residence by grinding oats. “It’s filled with soluble fibre, significantly beta-glucan, which helps decrease ldl cholesterol and stabilise blood sugar. Oat flour has a barely candy flavour and works nicely in muffins, pancakes, and even dosa batter. Simply combine it with different flours for construction,” Raj stated.
Ragi (Finger Millet) Flour: A standard supergrain from India, ragi is wealthy in calcium, iron, and amino acids. “It’s gluten-free, straightforward to digest, and excellent for making rotis, porridge, and even cookies. Its earthy style takes slightly getting used to, however the dietary enhance is price it,” Raj stated.
Story continues beneath this advert
Besan (Chickpea Flour): One other pantry staple, besan is produced from floor chickpeas and is wealthy in protein and fibre. “It’s a star in Indian kitchens utilized in every little thing from pakoras to cheelas. Besan has a barely nutty style and is of course gluten-free, making it a stable alternative for savory recipes”, stated Raj.