Feeding on Gond Laddoos & wondering what’s so special? Here are the amazing benefits of Gond
When you start to travel there are so many things that you get to learn and see things you never knew existed. During my travels especially in remote villages, it never ceases to surprise me that the old people are so much healthier and energetic than those who live in the cities and so-called urban areas. This has often been a frequent question that gets me wondering and often the answer is in the difference in the lifestyles and the eating habits. Somewhere as a part of this modernization, we have lost touch with our roots.
Today, we tend to turn to doctors for the smallest problems or the slightest signs of sickness; however, what we fail to understand is nothing but the kind of foods and lifestyles that we follow that make us sick and unhealthy.
The universe is balanced and everything that you need is present in nature.
Ayurveda has been part of our culture since ancient times. Today there is extensive research that is being done in this field even outside India. The amount of herbs and nutritional substances that can be found in nature is beyond measure.
Let’s today introduce ourselves to one such ayurvedic ingredient available in nature, “Gond Katira”. I am pretty sure many people would relate to Gond ka laddoo that their moms would make at home. I guess we should all today thank our moms for feeding those gond laddoos at home. However, I don’t know how many of us know how it is obtained or the reason for these laddoos being so famous.
Gond Katira is also commonly known as “Edible Gum” or “Tragacanth Gum” or “Acacia Gum”. It is naturally obtained in the form of the sap of the thorny shrub tragacanth or acacia plants. Tragacanth is a thorny and low-growing shrub and commonly found in the mountainous regions of the Middle East. Iran is the highest producer of this tree gum, which is also called Gond Katira in Hindi. The Tragacanth gum is majorly used in Ayurveda for its digestive properties. Some basic facts about Gond Katira are listed below –
Name: Tragacanth gum (“gond katira”)
Obtained From: Species of Astragalus
Plant Part Used: Root sap (dried)
Common Name: Shiraz, Shiraz gum, gum dragon
Sanskrit Name: Galgal
Native Region and Geographical Distribution: Middle eastern region of the world.
Nutritional facts about Tragacanth gum or Gond Katira
Like all our products, let’s look at the nutritional information for Gond Katira.
Nutrients
Value (per 100 g)
Energy
70 kcal
Carbohydrates
35 g
Fiber
30 g
Hydrates
5 g
Fats
0 g
Mineral(s)
Sodium
9 g
How to use Gondh?
For people like me who are new to Gond Katira should know that it is water-soluble and hence can be used as an ingredient in a variety of preparations. Also due to its nutritional value, it is used in the treatment of a variety of ailments.
It is a tasteless and odourless and swells when soaked in water or turns crunchy when fried in ghee. Due to this texture of gond, it is used in the food and pharmaceutical industry as a thickening and binding agent. The other uses of gond include being used as an emulsifier, a stabilizer, and a texturant additive. Gond is very commonly found in commercial items, like bakery items, beauty products, fizzy energy drinks, ice creams, etc.
However, most of these don’t even exploit the benefits that gond has to offer when consumed in the form of laddoos.
Benefits of Gond
The benefits of Gond are truly limitless. No part of the body is not benefitted by the consumption of Gond, for both males and females. So let’s talk about the benefits of Gond –
1. Cooling effect on the body
If you spend too much time in the hot climate in the peak summers, having a milkshake or sherbet infused with Gond might be just the thing that you need. Gond is known for its cooling properties, which helps to reduce the temperature of the body. Thus preventing heat strokes.
2. Energy Booster
Gond acts as an instant energy booster. Also if you tend to get tired very easily or finding there is some sort of weakness in the body, consuming gond in the morning with milk and sugar can keep you energized throughout the day. Also, it works as a source of energy for kids too.
3. Laxative
Gond acts as a natural laxative and helps in regulating bowel movements. Thus preventing constipation. Also, some of the chemicals present in gond are known for helping with the digestion also.
4. Pregnancy
Gond laddoos have been an ancient recipe giving to women during pregnancy. During pregnancy, it helps provide the mother and child with the necessary nutrients. And post-pregnancy it is given to lactating mother to help increase the production of breast milk. Also, there are a lot of other positive effects that Gond has on women during the post-pregnancy period. It also helps in building immunity after delivery.
5. Treatment for mouth ulcers
Gond helps in reducing the redness and pain of mouth ulcers. A finely ground paste of Gond can be applied to the mouth ulcers for quick relief.
6. Weight loss
If you check the nutritional information of Gond, Gond is very high in fiber and also helps in increasing the metabolism of the body. Also due to the high-fiber content, you will feel more satisfied and lesser hunger pangs. Also, the high metabolic rate ensures that you have the necessary amount of energy for the complete day. And the final result is a weight management diet and weight loss.
7. Benefits for the Skin
The soluble fiber in Gond is known to have a lot of beneficial effects on the skin. It helps detoxify the system and thus helps in improving the complexion along with providing a healthy glow on the skin. Besides, Gond consumed regularly can help in the prevention of wrinkles, by improving the elasticity of the skin.
8. Good for bones and pain
The high calcium and magnesium content of Gond helps in strengthening and nourishing the bone tissues. Thus improving the overall bone health. Also, Gond is known to be a natural analgesic and works on certain receptors in the nervous system for reducing the pain.
9. Improves Libido in men
Gond is known to highly effective in increasing libido and also for treating various sexual inadequacy or weakness in males. The long-term consumption of gond can cure other sexual issues like erectile dysfunction, low semen count, and other sexual issues in males. Other than this celery also has surprising health benefits for men.
10. Natural Breast Enhancer
Gond is one of the ingredients for the herbal treatment of the enhancement of breasts. It is known to be a natural and effective breast enhancer, through the balancing of hormones in the body. The effects are more easily seen after prolonged use of Gond.
Conclusion:
The list of benefits of Gond is endless. Due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-aging properties. It is used in a very wide variety of treatments, including the treatment of cancer.
As far as the side effects are concerned, in moderate quantities there are no side effects; however, it is advisable to have adequate consumption of water.
So the next time your mother gives you Gond laddoos, relish the same.
I am Sheetal Makhija aka Crazy Pulchritude, as most of the handles say. Currently, a trainer and a Kriya Yoga Practitioner and personally on a mission to be able to add values to people’s lives and just tell everyone out there that “No matter how hard it gets there is always hope. You don’t have to give up.” My mission and motto in life remain – Even if I can give hope to people, my life has been a success.
I am Sheetal Makhija aka Crazy Pulchritude, as most of the handles say. Currently, a trainer and a Kriya Yoga Practitioner and personally on a mission to be able to add values to people’s lives and just tell everyone out there that “No matter how hard it gets there is always hope. You don’t have to give up.” My mission and motto in life remain – Even if I can give hope to people, my life has been a success.
Sweet potatoes have earned their place as a global superfood. In fact, global consumption rose by 15% in 2024 alone, thanks to increased awareness of their nutritional benefits and versatility in the kitchen. Whether roasted, baked, mashed, or blended into smoothies, sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also loaded with health-boosting compounds.
Known for their naturally sweet flavor and vibrant orange hue, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This article will cover 12 incredible sweet potato benefits, the essential nutrients behind them, and easy, healthy ways to prepare them at home.
Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients that play a vital role in overall health. A medium-sized sweet potato (about 130g) provides:
400% of your daily Vitamin A (as beta-carotene)
30% of Vitamin C
4g of fiber
Manganese, potassium, and iron
Antioxidants like anthocyanins
These compounds help maintain immune function, support vision, and contribute to skin and heart health. With their low glycemic index and high fiber content, they also promote stable blood sugar levels—making them an ideal carbohydrate for a balanced diet.
Sweet potatoes are packed with Vitamin C, which plays a vital role in white blood cell production. This helps the body fight infections more efficiently and can reduce the duration of colds by up to 20%.
Tip: Eat boiled or mashed sweet potatoes regularly to strengthen your immunity.
2. Improves Vision with Vitamin A
Beta-carotene in sweet potatoes converts to Vitamin A, supporting eye health and lowering the risk of macular degeneration by 25%. Baking them with a little olive oil helps enhance absorption.
Tip: Bake sweet potatoes with olive oil to boost beta-carotene absorption.
3. Supports Digestive Health with Fiber
A single sweet potato offers 4g of dietary fiber, aiding in smooth digestion and preventing constipation. It also promotes gut health by nourishing beneficial bacteria.
Tip: Add to stews or soups for a fiber-rich boost.
Despite being sweet, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index of 44. This means they release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, making them suitable for diabetics.
Tip: Enjoy roasted sweet potatoes in moderate portions.
5. Enhances Skin Health
Sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin A, which reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. This helps improve skin texture, reduce acne, and minimize wrinkles.
Tip: Apply as a DIY face mask or eat steamed for skin nourishment.
6. Strengthens Bones with Manganese
Manganese aids in bone formation and metabolic activity. Regular intake can reduce the risk of fractures by 10%.
Tip: Enjoy baked sweet potatoes as a regular side.
7. Boosts Heart Health
Potassium and fiber found in sweet potatoes help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol. Studies show a 5–7% improvement in cardiovascular markers.
Tip: Slice into salads or oven-bake into fries.
8. Aids Weight Management
Low in calories (130 per medium serving) and high in fiber, sweet potatoes provide satiety without contributing to weight gain.
Tip: Replace high-carb staples like rice with mashed sweet potato.
9. Reduces Inflammation
Antioxidants like anthocyanins in purple sweet potatoes reduce inflammation markers by 15%, making them effective in managing chronic conditions like arthritis.
Tip: Boil or puree for easy digestion.
10. Improves Brain Function
Vitamin B6 in sweet potatoes supports neurotransmitter function, enhancing mood, memory, and focus.
Tip: Mix mashed sweet potato with a dash of cinnamon.
11. Supports Muscle Recovery
High potassium and complex carbs help refuel muscles post-exercise. Sweet potato toast is an ideal recovery snack.
Tip: Eat sweet potato toast post-workout.
12. Promotes Longevity
Regular consumption of antioxidant-rich sweet potatoes is linked to lower oxidative stress, slower aging, and longer lifespan.
Tip: Include in a weekly bowl with greens and grains.
How to Cook Sweet Potatoes: Easy and Healthy Methods
1. Baked Sweet Potatoes
How: Preheat oven to 200°C, wrap sweet potatoes in foil, and bake for 45 minutes. Add cinnamon or paprika for flavor.
Benefits: Retains nutrients and enhances natural sweetness.
2. Mashed Sweet Potatoes
How: Boil sweet potatoes for 20–25 minutes. Mash with a touch of butter or coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
Benefits: Smooth texture ideal for all ages.
3. Roasted Sweet Potato Fries
How: Slice into strips, toss with olive oil, roast at 220°C for 30 minutes. Add spices like garlic powder.
Benefits: Crispy, delicious, and nutritious.
4. Sweet Potato Soup
How: Sauté chopped sweet potatoes with onions, add broth, simmer for 30 minutes, and blend until smooth. Garnish with parsley.
Benefits: Comforting and immune-boosting.
Tips to Maximize Sweet Potato Benefits
Pair with healthy fats (like avocado or olive oil) to increase nutrient absorption.
Avoid overcooking to preserve vitamins A and C.
Incorporate into a balanced meal with greens and lean proteins.
Consult a dietitian for targeted dietary plans if addressing skin issues or weight goals.
Conclusion
Sweet potatoes are more than just comfort food—they’re a powerful tool for boosting immunity, enhancing skin health, improving digestion, and supporting heart and brain function.
Make 2025 the year you embrace the full sweet potato benefits. Try out these cooking methods, enjoy the flavor, and nourish your body with one of nature’s best superfoods.
Unlock the power of sweet potatoes in 2025—try these recipes and boost your health today!
More women are embracing natural health solutions in their daily routines, and superfoods are leading the way. Among them, flax seeds have seen a sharp rise in popularity, especially for their powerful role in women’s wellness. With hormonal imbalances, hair thinning, and digestive issues becoming more common, around 70% of women today are turning to functional foods to support their health.
Flax seeds offer a range of benefits tailored to female health. From balancing hormones to boosting skin glow and strengthening hair, these tiny seeds pack a powerful punch. This article dives deep into the flax seeds benefits for females, with a focus on how to incorporate them easily into your lifestyle—whether you’re managing PMS or navigating menopause.
Flax seeds are a nutrient-rich superfood that supports several aspects of women’s health. One tablespoon of ground flax seeds contains:
Omega-3 fatty acids (ALA): Excellent for heart health and reducing inflammation.
Lignans: These plant-based compounds mimic estrogen and help in hormonal balance.
Dietary fiber: Supports digestion and may reduce bloating.
Plant-based protein: Helps with muscle recovery and satiety.
What makes flax seeds particularly unique for women is their phytoestrogen content. Lignans in flax seeds mimic estrogen and can help regulate hormonal fluctuations during menstruation or menopause. Additionally, their omega-3 content supports skin, joint, and brain health.
To get the most out of flax seeds, consume them ground, not whole. Whole flax seeds often pass through the digestive tract undigested, while ground seeds allow better absorption of nutrients.
Top Health Benefits of Flax Seeds for Females
1. Hormonal Balance and Menstrual Health
Flax seeds are particularly beneficial during menstruation. Their lignin’s help stabilize estrogen levels, reducing PMS symptoms like cramps, mood swings, and breast tenderness. For women with PCOS, flax seeds can lower androgen levels, ease inflammation, and support more regular ovulation.
Tip: Add 1-2 tablespoons of ground flax seeds to yogurt or smoothies daily.
During menopause, declining estrogen levels lead to hot flashes and increased risk of osteoporosis. Flax seeds offer a natural alternative. Rich in manganese and magnesium, they support bone density. A study found that 40g of flax seed daily helped reduce hot flashes comparably to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for mild symptoms.
Best use: Add ground flax seeds to oatmeal or salads.
3. Hair Growth and Skin Health
Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E in flax seeds work wonders for hair. They nourish the scalp, reduce dryness, and improve hair strength and shine. Regular consumption may reduce hair fall. For skin, the anti-inflammatory properties help reduce acne and promote glow.
Pro tip: Use flax seed oil topically or include 1 tbsp of seeds daily in meals.
Flax seeds improve cardiovascular health, especially post-menopause when the risk of heart issues increases. Their ALA content helps reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol, while fiber promotes smooth digestion and alleviates constipation—a common complaint during hormonal changes.
Easy option: Mix flax seeds into soups or healthy baked snacks.
How to Incorporate Flax Seeds into a Woman’s Diet
Making flax seeds a daily habit is easy and beneficial:
Always use ground flax seeds for better nutrient absorption.
Store properly: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve freshness.
Recommended dosage: 1-2 tablespoons per day is ideal.
Simple Ways to Use Flax Seeds:
Smoothies: Blend into your morning fruit smoothie.
Yogurt: Sprinkle a tablespoon into your bowl.
Baking: Use ground flax as an egg substitute (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg).
Caution: Avoid consuming more than 2 tbsp per day initially, especially if you’re new to high-fiber foods. Overconsumption can lead to bloating or gas.
Precautions and Considerations for Women
While flax seeds are largely safe, here are some precautions:
Pregnant women or those on hormone-sensitive medication should consult a healthcare provider before adding flax seeds to their diet due to their estrogen-like effects.
Avoid raw seeds: They contain cyanogenic glycosides, which may be harmful in large amounts. Toasting or grinding helps neutralize these.
Start small: Begin with 1 tsp daily to test your body’s response.
Conclusion
From balancing hormones to promoting glowing skin and stronger hair, flax seeds are a natural superfood every woman should consider. Whether you’re dealing with PMS, looking for menopause relief, or simply aiming for a healthier heart, flax seeds can offer real, research-backed benefits.
Start small, be consistent, and watch how this humble seed transforms your health.
Hair thinning and loss are becoming increasingly common, with studies showing that nearly 50% of men and 25% of women experience it by age 50. With this growing concern, more people are turning to natural solutions—and one of the most effective ways is through nutrition.
Certain foods are packed with essential nutrients that support hair health from the inside out. This guide explores the top hair growth foods, how to build a balanced diet, and smart lifestyle changes to maximize results.
Healthy hair starts with what you eat. Your hair follicles are some of the most active cells in the body, and they need constant nourishment.
Protein: Builds keratin, the main hair component
Iron: Helps red blood cells carry oxygen to hair follicles
Zinc: Repairs hair tissue and boosts growth
Biotin (Vitamin B7): Improves hair thickness and reduces shedding
Vitamin D: May help create new hair follicles
The hair growth cycle (Anagen → Catagen → Telogen) relies on these nutrients to stay balanced. A consistent hair growth diet can reduce hair breakage by 20–30% over time.
Top 10 Hair Growth Foods for 2025
☕️1. Eggs
Why: Rich in biotin and protein—two key ingredients for healthy hair.
Tip: Eat 1–2 eggs daily in omelets or boiled for breakfast.
🌿2. Spinach
Why: Loaded with iron, folate, and vitamin C to boost blood circulation to the scalp.
Tip: Add to smoothies, salads, or sauté with garlic.
🍠3. Sweet Potatoes
Why: Full of beta-carotene (Vitamin A) to nourish the scalp.
Tip: Bake or mash for a fiber-rich side dish.
🥑4. Avocados
Why: Packed with Vitamin E and healthy fats to increase hair elasticity.
Tip: Use in guacamole or on toast.
🥜5. Nuts
Why: Almonds and walnuts contain zinc, selenium, and omega-3s.
Tip: Eat a handful daily for a nutrient-packed snack.
🐟6. Salmon
Why: High in omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin D for strong, shiny hair.
Tip: Grill or bake 2–3 times per week.
🥟7. Greek Yogurt
Why: Rich in protein and probiotics to reduce inflammation and strengthen hair.
Tip: Add fruit and honey for a hair-friendly breakfast.
A smart diet is all about balance and consistency.
☑ Sample Daily Plan:
Breakfast: Greek yogurt with berries + chia seeds
Lunch: Spinach salad with boiled eggs + nuts
Dinner: Grilled salmon with sweet potatoes + lentils
📈 Hair Growth Food Chart:
Food
Portion Size
Spinach
1 cup
Salmon
2–3 oz
Eggs
1–2 eggs
Berries
1/2 cup
Lentils
1/2 cup cooked
✅ Tips:
Drink 8+ glasses of water daily
Avoid processed, sugary foods
Consider supplements if you’re low on iron, Vitamin D, or Biotin
Consult a nutritionist for a tailored plan
Additional Tips for Maximizing Hair Growth
Scalp Care:
Massage with coconut oil 2–3 times/week to boost circulation
Avoid Heat & Chemicals:
Limit blow drying, straighteners, and harsh dyes
Stress & Sleep:
Practice yoga or meditation
Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep nightly
Combining these tips with a proper hair growth diet plan ensures sustainable, visible results.
Conclusion
Hair growth isn’t just about products—it starts with your plate. Including foods like eggs, spinach, salmon, and nuts gives your body the nutrients it needs to build stronger, thicker hair naturally.
Be consistent, stay hydrated, and don’t hesitate to talk to a specialist if hair loss persists.
✨ Boost your hair growth naturally in 2025—download our hair growth food chart and start today!