Fennel seeds, also known as ‘saunf’ is an indispensable part of the Indian household. It is the go-to after-meal munching option that people choose. If you are living in an Indian household, you must have seen your family members munching fennel seeds. Well, but did you know saunf is more than just a munching snack for them? It comes with a lot of health benefits.
Yes, eating fennel seeds after meals has been a long-held custom for a good reason. Not just one reason, but many. This blog post will talk about the benefits of fennel seeds.
So, sit back and read along.
They improve digestive health
Do you suffer from gas and constipation all the time? If yes, you may consider eating fennel seeds after meals. The very reason why people eat fennel seeds after meals is because they improve digestion. They facilitate the secretion of enzymes and digestive juices to ensure a smooth digestive process. In addition, the carminative and antispasmodic effect can also treat heartburn, bloating and flatulence. They may also help with digestive issues such as GERD and IBS.
If you are suffering from constipation, fennel seeds can promote bowel movements, all thanks to the rich fibre content. Fennel seeds can also serve as a natural antacid.
Helps manage blood pressure
High blood pressure is a BIG red flag for heart disease. Being a natural and rich source of potassium, fennel seeds can help manage blood pressure – all thanks to potassium’s ability to control the acid-base balance, dilating blood vessels and regulating heart rate.
In addition, chewing fennel seeds can promote the release of nitrite, which has been a renowned remedy for controlling blood pressure.
May improve fertility
Another potential benefit of fennel seeds is that they may improve fertility. They are rich in phytoestrogens, which imitate the role of oestrogen, a female hormone regulating the menstrual cycle. This may have a direct impact on fertility.
Can support weight loss
Wishing to lose extra kilos? Fennel seeds can be of help. They help improve your metabolism, by promoting the digestive process.
Additionally, as they are a rich source of fibre, they promote a feeling of fullness, ensuring you don’t binge on unhealthy snacks.
They are also diuretics in nature, which can help control fluid buildup, helping flush out toxins from the body.
However, you must be realistic and keep your expectations in check. You cannot lose weight by merely eating fennel seeds. Calorie deficit and physical activities are essential to lose weight. Fennel can only offer support and help your weight loss journey, not facilitate it.
Good for the skin
Here’s a fact that you must come to terms with. Your diet can help improve your skin, more than expensive cosmetics can. Apart from consuming a balanced meal, you can add fennel seeds to your diet to double the benefits.
All thanks to its antimicrobial properties, fennel seeds are used to treat multiple skin issues. The antioxidant properties can help fight free radicals, ultimately adding radiance to your skin. They also come with anti-ageing properties that can diminish fine lines and wrinkles.
Promotes breast milk production
Consuming fennel seeds can be good for nursing mothers as they may promote lactation. Fennel seeds contain anethole, which has galactagogue properties, imitating the function of oestrogen and improving breast milk production.
Promotes healthy vision
Our lives have become surrounded by gadgets, from work to home, and home to work, our eyes are constantly glued to gadgets, be it our phones or laptops. Vision problems have become inevitable with such a lifestyle.
If you are already struggling with poor eyesight, fennel seeds may be good for you, all thanks to the anethole compound present in them. It improves the protein content of the lens, ultimately slowing down cataracts. Fennel seeds may also help treat inflamed and watery eyes.
May reduce the chances of osteoporosis
Bones become weak as you age. Consequently, you may become prone to osteoporosis. Fennel seeds have phytoestrogens, which imitate oestrogen. This hormone plays a pivotal role in improving bone health. Oestrogen protects the bones against fractures, protecting you from osteoporosis.
Helps purify blood
Purified blood is a boon for you and your body. Fennel seeds can help purify blood, all thanks to the goodness of essential oils content in them. They help flush out harmful toxins from the body, cleaning blood. Purified blood increases the absorption of nutrients in the body.
Helps relieve chest congestion
Chest congestion is a common health issue that people struggle with all around the year – especially when the weather changes. Fennel seeds can serve as an effective remedy to treat congestion and sinuses.
Closing thoughts
Adding a sprinkle of fennel seeds to your post-meal routine can be a simple yet delightful way to promote digestion and overall well-being. So, why not embrace this aromatic tradition and let the tiny seeds work their magic? Whether you savour them independently or incorporate them into your favourite dishes, fennel seeds might just be the small but impactful addition to your after-meal routine. Cheers to good food, good digestion, and the joy of discovering the goodness in every tiny seed.
