The Importance of Food in Indian Recipes

Food is any substance ingested to provide nutrition to an organisms. It also has various purposes, such as the provision of energy, for nourishment, for growth and repair of tissues, etc. Food is generally of animal, plant or fungi origin, and includes various nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, or iron. Therefore, it is not surprising to note that it influences all living creatures and plants on earth.

Every living being needs a diet to survive. However, food varies greatly in its quality and quantity and therefore nutrition level differs too. Some foods are easily digestible and others are difficult to digest or do not contain nutrients sufficiently to meet the daily requirements of an individual. It is important to eat a well-balanced, nutritionally balanced diet, which contains all the nutrients required by the body to function normally and stay healthy.

Legumes and pulses are considered to be the most important nutrients in most of the Indian diet. These foods contain complete proteins, dietary fibers, minerals and vitamins, which provide a balance to the diet. For instance, beans provide proteins, iron and fiber, which are important nutrients in legumes. On the other hand, green leafy vegetables, lentils, grains, nuts, pulses, etc., provide complete proteins, minerals and vitamins.

Fats, oils, and certain condiments and spices are considered to be some important nutrients in Indian cuisine. A variety of oils, nuts, and spices can be used for imparting a variety of tastes, flavors and aromas in a dish. Spices such as turmeric, cumin, curry leaves, and garlic impart a taste and smell that are very healthy for the health conscious people.

Activity 1.1 The second thing that is very important to remember in order to stay healthy is to have enough food. Not having enough food or having the wrong kind of food is harmful to the body. You should consume balanced meals that include all nutrients that you need to keep your body and mind fit. Your family also needs to be taken care of and your children too should eat enough food so that they grow up healthily.

Having a balanced diet means including all the main food groups, like carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and fats. Having a diet rich in carbohydrates is essential because it contains energy that keeps the body active. Proteins are necessary for the proper functioning of the muscles and vitamins help build the immunity of the body. Vitamins are necessary to prevent diseases. Fats are present in natural oils, butter, milk, vegetables, fruits and nuts.