5 reasons to add Sadhguru's Ashgourd-Pomegranate Salad to your summer meals

Sadhguru often talks about the magic of nature in the form of fruits and vegetables that help us lead a healthier life. With the changing weather, it is important to keep the gut cool to make it work efficiently. According to one of his blog posts, incorporating ash gourd or winter melon into your diet can help boost energy levels and also keep the gut cool. If summer heat is getting you down, try this Sadhgurus's Ashgourd-Pomegranate Salad. Scroll down to learn the benefits of this unique salad.

Ingredients: 1 slice ashgourd, 1 small pomegranate, 2 tbsp curd, salt to taste, and pepper powder to taste
Method: Remove the seeds and white fleshy stuff from the ashgourd slice. Cut into pieces, grate and squeeze out the water. Extract the seeds of the pomegranate. Mix in a bowl, grated ash gourd, pomegranate seeds, salt and pepper. Enjoy the coolness of this salad in the scorching heat of the summers!

According to Sadhguru, ash gourd boasts a variety of beneficial vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and B-complex vitamins such as niacin, thiamine and riboflavin. It is also a valuable source of minerals like iron, potassium, zinc, calcium and magnesium. The gourd also provides a good amount of protein, carbohydrates and dietary fiber. According to his blog, per 100 gms of ash gourd contains 3.9 g fat, 0.5 g saturated fat, 12.5 g total carbs, 0.6 g dietary fiber, 2 g protein, 33 mg sodium, and 259 mg potassium. Take a look at its benefits. Also, since ashgourd is the most positive pranic vegetable in the existence, get all the more drive during the energy-sapping summer season!

According to Sadhguru, people who are susceptible to problems such as colds, asthma, and sinusitis should be a little careful with ash gourds because it creates too much sheeta, or coolness, in the system. Such people should always mix it with honey or pepper and drink it, so that the cooling effect is neutralized to some extent. It is also proven scientifically, that ash gourd contains about 96% water which helps prevent dehydration and cool the body, especially during hot weather or summer months.

As per Sadhguru's blog post, consumption of ash gourd brings enormous amounts of energy and at the same time it keeps the nerves calm. According to the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ash gourd contains vitamin B3, which plays a key role in energy metabolism by helping convert food into usable energy. This makes it beneficial for individuals suffering from anemia or physical weakness, supporting increased energy levels and reduced fatigue.

According to Sadhguru, daily consumption of ash gourd can enhance intellectual capabilities. He suggests that children should drink ash gourd juice daily. As per studies, the folate content found in ash gourd supports brain development and reduces stress by relaxing the mind.

A study published by the National Library of Medicine titled Potent health effects of pomegranate, states that pomegranates can help prevent or treat various disease risk factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, oxidative stress, hyperglycemia, and inflammatory activities. It is demonstrated that certain components of pomegranate, such as polyphenols, have potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic effects. Moreover, pomegranate fruit extract prevents cell growth and induces apoptosis, which can lead to its anticarcinogenic effects. These seeds are also rich in vitamin C, which helps brighten the skin and boosts collagen production and result in radiant glow. Pomegranate also contain polyphenols and flavonoids that help reduce oxidation of LDL (bad cholesterol). As per experts, daily intake of pomegranate may help lower systolic blood pressure, especially in people with hypertension as it relaxes blood vessel walls and reduces stress on the heart.

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