Health-conscious or not, superfoods are on everyone's minds, thanks to social media trends and several YouTube detox tutorials. Though Macha, Acai Berry, and Maca root sound oh-so exotic, they're not an easy find in India. That said, here are some local alternatives to International superfoods that cost half the price too.
Straight From Our Backyard! These Indian Alternatives To International Superfoods Will Surprise You
Kaala Jamun Replaces Goji Berries
Goji Berries come from China and Indian Blackberry is our desi alternative to this. Both these berries are good for diabetic patients, kaala jamun is a backyard-grown all-rounder for tiredness, throat pain controls blood sugar levels and helps build stronger immunity.
Shatavari Replaces Maca Roots
Straight from Peru, Maca Root exploded on the internet a few years ago and hipsters are still going #MacaMaca on Instagram. If we deep dive into Ayurveda, it is said that Indian Asparagus or Shatavari is one of the most powerful herbs which is an alternative to Maca Root. Similar in nature and form, Shatavri can help with PMS, indigestion, heartburn, UTIs, irritable bowel syndrome, and mood swings.
Beet Greens Replaces Kale
We do find Kale in selective supermarkets and grocery stores in big cities, but we can't deny the fact that it's bombastically expensive. Something that is rich in vitamin A and vitamin K, you won't believe what the alternative is with equivalent nutrition properties, it's beet greens. Normally, we throw the greens away that come with beetroots and that needs to change now. Low in calorie but rich in vitamin E and potassium, add this to your diet, ASAP.
Ashwagandha Replaces Chinese Ginseng
Reduces inflammation, improves brain function, boosts immunity, increases energy levels, and potential cancer fighter, Ginseng has been a part of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Its Indian alternative, Ashwagandha is a popular Ayurvedic concoction which helps strengthen the body. And with the country going vocal for local, opt for the Indian alternative which is cheaper.
Indian Gooseberry Replaces Amazon Acai Berry
Remember buying khatta-meetha amla from street carts when we were young? It's 20 times richer in Vitamin C than its foreign friend Amazon Acai Berry, which has similar anti-aging and weightloss properties. Just ask your maa or granny. Also, this isn't brand new information because Chawanprash was all about this.
Indian Moringa Replaces Japanese Matcha Powder
Matcha tea is the new big thing and the newest green tea import from Japan. While it's a great source of antioxidants, reduces the risk of heart diseases, aids immunity, good mood, and weight loss, Indian Moringa has over 10 times more fibre, 30 times more protein, and 100 times more calcium than its Japanese friend, in terms of nutrition.