GOA is a  well known holiday destination for most people in the country.  Goa has carved a niche for itself in the World Tourism Map for its enchanting beaches, churches and good food. Besides its tantalizing Goan fish, curry and rice, Goa is also blessed with a lot of Super Foods that the generations to generations have been using in the local cuisine. So when you’re heading back home, along with a packet of cashews and a bottle of wine, don’t miss carrying these food.

Virgin Coconut Oil:

It has gained a lot of popularity in recent time because of its medium chained triglycerides (MCT’S). Virgin coconut oil is reported to kill sugar cravings and help you get over that constant state of being hungry. In addition, the high levels of Lauric acid in coconut oil protects against infection from viruses, bacteria, yeast, parasites and fungi making it a good antibacterial and antifungal food. 1 tsp. of coconut oil per day has the ability to transform cholesterol into pregnenolone thus balancing hormones especially in Thyroid cases. Coconut oil is also used to eliminate toxins in the body through an ancient method called Oil Pulling.

Oil pulling method: Swish around the mouth 15 ml of cold pressed virgin coconut oil, for 3-4 minutes and then spit out before brushing or drinking anything.

It is a very famous ingredient which can be used in stir fry’s, smoothies and salads.

Availability: It is available in superstores all around Goa. Make sure to pick the Virgin/ Cold pressed variety.

Kokum:

Tons of people are buzzing about Garcinia Cambogia extract diet pills. Garcinia cambogia has been deemed by the weight loss industries for its appetite suppressant properties. But the truth is, it is not only heavy for your pockets but for your gut too. However, the alternative Garcinia Indica (Kokum) is not only cheaper but also nutritionally beneficial. So if you’re really looking at weight loss, include these flavoursome goodness in your daily food instead of ruining your health with capsules. In addition, besides boasting a pretty impressive nutrient profile and distinct flavor, Kokum has also been shown to have many beneficial effects on health such as it helps battle depression, fights free radical as it is a storehouse of antioxidants, aids in weight loss due to Hydroxy citric acid (HCA). It is a go-to-food for acidity or bloating. What’s more, it also rich in vitamin C, potassium and magnesium.

A popular way to eat it is using it in stir fry’s or curry preparation. But another interesting way is to use it in Infused water bottles or in green coffees.

Availability: It is easily available in the Goan markets. It is also known as “solan” in Konkani.

Sprouted Kaju:

 Most people have heard about the benefits of the cashew nuts, but did you know the benefits double when you sprout them? Yes!! It’s not only moong and chana that can be sprouted but also cashew nuts. And the good news it, sprouting breaks down the enzyme inhibitors thus increasing nutrient absorption i.e. Vitamin B12, Iron, Zinc, Magnesium. Sprouted cashew has good amount of protein and a low glycemic index. It is also known to strengthen the body’s defence system and accelerate the skin restoration process due to its high Vitamin C content. Being a good source of vitamin K, A, E, sprouted cashew can promote hair growth and glowing skin. So if you’re looking to optimize your diet, improve your health, and squeeze in as many nutrients into your day as possible, sprouted cashew may be the perfect dietary addition. Sprouted cashews can be added to everything and anything, you can add them in smoothies/ sandwiches/ salads/ curry preparations etc.

Availability: Carry a packet of unroasted raw cashews and sprout it at home.

Jackfruit seeds:

You will amazed to know that the flesh isn’t the only part of the enormous jackfruit that is edible, you can also eat the seeds. Yes you heard it right! These tiny power packed seeds have a lot of health benefits. They aid in stabilizing hormones especially in PCOD and Thyroid cases. It is great for maintaining the health of gut and also helps cure diarrhoea and dysentery. These seeds also provide a small amounts of zinc, iron, calcium, copper, potassium and manganese. Research has proven that increased consumption of ripe kernels can help alleviate vitamin A deficiency (Shrikant Baslingappa Swami, N. J. Thakor, P. M. Haldankar, S. B. Kalse). Roasted jackfruit seeds are also known to promote good gut health as it is a natural source of prebiotic.

The taste and texture makes it a great evening snack. It can also blend in well in salads.

Availability: You can find in tiny packets (Mapusa market) or you can remove the seeds from the fruit itself.