10 Reasons to Eat Moringa Everyday
What is Moringa?
Moringa oleifera is a tree native to the areas of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan. It also grows abundantly in tropical regions. It is often referred to as the “Tree of Life” by ancient cultures. Moringa is so nutritious, full of antioxidants, and contains bioactive plant compounds that have a positive effect on cells in your body. It rivals turmeric in terms of its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The entire plant can be used in different forms to make herbal medicines or consumed as food. The leaves, seeds, flowers, and fruits all have anti-inflammatory properties. The tree’s pods are used in Asian rice and noodle dishes similar to peas.
Effects of Moringa on the Body
Moringa is a green superfood that contains protein, vitamins, and minerals. High in antioxidants, primarily Vitamins A and C, moringa reduces inflammation in the body and helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals (chemicals in the body that cause cancer). Its anti-inflammatory effects can also act as a natural pain reliever by reducing the inflammation in your joints. Moringa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a great source of plant protein.
Its detoxifying and anti-inflammatory effects also aid in preventing many chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
Moringa Comes in Many Forms
Moringa is a highly nutritious tree that is used as nutritious food or herbal medicine. The moringa leaves are consumed in the below forms as dietary supplements in a standalone supplement or food, or together with other herbal combinations. The dried leaves are rich in many vital nutrients, including protein, vitamin B6, vitamin C, riboflavin, and iron. Moringa leaves are more nutrient dense than kale. Compared to kale on a per gram basis, moringa has:
- 2X Protein
- 4X Calcium
- 6X Iron
- 1.5X Fiber
- 48X Vitamin B2
- 2.5X Vitamin B3
Wow, that’s impressive!
The fresh tree pods are particularly rich in Vitamin C. One cup of fresh pods, contains 157% of your daily recommended value of Vitamin C!
Moringa is often used fresh or dried. It can also be extracted from the plant to create an oil through a cold-pressed process. The oil is known for its cytokinin zeatin compound, which helps with rapid cell creation, resulting in more radiant skin.
The most common forms of Moringa include:
- Capsules as a nutritional supplement
- Powder for smoothies, soups, oatmeal, and other recipes
- Tea
- Topical Oil for all skin types to help nourish the skin
10 Reasons to Eat Moringa Everyday
- Acts as a natural pain reliever
- Helps prevent and manage diabetes by reducing blood glucose and cholesterol (LDL specifically) levels
- Supports cardiovascular health through its fiber-rich content and antioxidants
- It’s a superfood that will give you a nutrient boost
- Used to successfully treat anemia or people low in iron (one serving contains 50% of your daily recommended value)
- Reduces chronic inflammation due to its antioxidants like polyphenols attacking free radicals
- Supports gut health by stimulating the growth of good bacteria and suppressing the pathogenic bacteria
- A great source of complete plant protein, with all nine essential amino acids (essential amino acids are not made by your body and must be consumed)
- Helps heal wounds faster due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties
- Increases breastmilk quality and production in lactating mothers
Not All Moringa is Created Equal
According to Kuli Kuli, a purveyor of moringa powder, it’s essential that moringa is sourced from only the highest-quality, sustainably-grown moringa leaves. Moringa powder is created by harvesting, drying, and milling moringa leaves. As simple as that sounds, soil quality, harvesting practices, and processing procedures create varying levels of cleanliness and quality.
This green superfood, known as Moringa, is rich in antioxidants, iron, calcium, and plant protein. It is a versatile food that can provide you with a boost in everything from smoothies to soups. Have you tried moringa? Let us know in the comments below!
Sources:
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