Editorial Team
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Editorial Team | Updated : November 20, 2014 7:18 PM IST
One of the most popular and healthy vegetable dishes you will find all over India is palak paneer. It is cooked all over the south-western region of Asia and is quite a favourite among children and adults too. It is one of those rare foods that are full of taste and nutrition. The dish is usually enjoyed with chapatti or naan. Nutritionist Priya Kathpal says, 'It is a complete dish. Spinach is a great source of vitamins and cottage cheese or paneer gives the calcium and protein.' Here are some of the benefits of the dish.
Full of nutrition
The dish has magnesium, folate, vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, calcium and so much more. Priya says, 'Since palak paneer is full of calcium and phosphorous it plays a role in heart and muscle function.' According to Priya, the vitamins B2 and B12 in cottage cheese help convert the food into usable energy. Imagine a whole lot of nutrients in one dish! If you are someone who is on a vegetarian meal plan, it would be wise to add this sumptuous dish.
Ultimate weight loss food
When you are preparing your diet plan for the day, do ensure you add a palak paneer to it. This dish is very low in calories, has less fat and is filling indeed. The best thing about spinach is that you can eat it in chunks but still consume very little calories. Our expert adds, 'It is a rich source of dietary fibre which helps control your appetite.' So if you are looking for a great fat-cutter and some quick tummy reduction, this dish shall benefit you a hundred percent. (Read: 7 reasons you need to put broccoli on your plate)
Lowers blood pressure
Since palak paneer contains spinach, it will lower your blood pressure. Here is how! Spinach contains antioxidants which keep cholesterol levels low and open up those arteries in your heart that could be blocked. It also contains folate which is great for the cardiovascular system. The content of magnesium in spinach shall surely help you lower high blood pressure. (Read: Add lettuce to your plate for 6 healthy reasons)
Beneficial for pregnant women
Palak paneer is great for women who are expecting the arrival of a newborn. The spinach in the dish supplies a lot of vitamin A which boosts the immune system of the mum-to-be and her baby as well. The folate found in spinach is essential for the development of baby's brain and nervous system. Besides, the calcium in cottage cheese helps in the overall skeletal development of the baby.(Read: Did you know these health benefits of paneer or cottage cheese?)
Improves digestion
Palak paneer is beneficial in improving your digestive system. According to Priya, paneer contains protein casein which easily gets digested by the body. Spinach helps protect the mucous lining of the stomach and keeps digestive disorders at bay.
Full of protein
This dish can also contribute to your protein intake. Protein is essential in building muscles and repairing body tissues. Paneer provides you with all the amino acids you need making it a complete protein. (Read: Top 8 health benefits of spring onions)
Tips to make palak paneer healthy:
Photo source: Getty images
For more articles on healthy food, visit our healthy food section. For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter.
