A boost of black

Black is the ‘in’ colour these days not only in evening gowns and elegant dresses, but also in food. The different green, red, yellow, black and white foods have an important role in our nutrition. The lesser-known black foods have been around for centuries, but it is only recently that their importance has been discovered and recognised. Japanese scientists discovered the health and medicinal benefits of black foods, which are said to contain an even higher amount of antioxidants than lighter coloured ones. The black colouring is a result of the presence of anthocyanins, which are thought to prevent the occurrence of certain health conditions. There are many different black foods that can easily be added into your diet, which can help give your health a big boost.

BY GEETA KHURANA

Black Olives

Black olives are those that have been allowed to ripen on the tree before harvesting. They are somewhat superior to green olives due to their increased mineral content. Black olives are a good source of monounsaturated fatty acids or the good fats that help lower bad cholesterol. They are also a good source of Vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant that helps our body from free radicals. The combination of Vitamin E and monounsaturated fats allow black olives to provide great antioxidant benefits to the human body.

Black Pepper

Black pepper or kali mirch has long been used as a carminative i.e. a substance that helps prevent the formation of intestinal gas. Thus it helps in better digestion of food. Black pepper stimulates the taste buds in such a way that an alert is sent to the stomach to increase hydrochloric acid secretion, thereby improving digestion. Hydrochloric acid is necessary for the digestion of proteins and other food components in the stomach. When the body’s production of hydrochloric acid is insufficient, food may sit in the stomach for an extended period of time, leading to heartburn or indigestion

Black Tea

Black tea contains more complex flavonoids then green teas; specifically thearubigins and theaflavins. Antioxidant theaflavins present in black tea may well bring about improvement in muscular tenderness following a workout and even in lowering heart attack risk.

Black Rice

Rice is the staple food of half the world’s population. Most people enjoy white and brown rice, but there is also the unappealing black rice that turns purple on cooking. The bran hull in black rice contains considerable Vitamin E that helps boost immunity and shield our cells from free radicals.

Black Sesame Seeds

Black sesame seeds are very popular and considered a health food in Japan. Research has shown that they are richer in antioxidants than white sesame as they are also rich in Vitamins C and E, which may provide immunity to the body. Like all berries, blackberries contain ellagic acid, an antioxidant that has been shown to protect the skin from ultraviolet damage. New research is finding that ellagic acid may not only protect the skin from damage, but also repair skin damaged by the sun.

Black Soybeans

It is believed that consuming black soybeans could reduce the risk of thrombosis - a deadly form of blood clot. Thrombosis prevents blood circulation, and can even lead to death if not treated promptly. Black soybean oil as well as all other soybean oils contain omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Japanese scientists discovered the health and medicinal benefits of black foods, which are said to contain an even higher amount of antioxidants than lighter coloured ones seeds. Black sesame seeds are high in many minerals including calcium, iron, copper and magnesium. These seeds are also used to prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movement. They contain two unique substances known as sesamin and sesamolin, which belong to a group of fibers called lignans. Lignans are rich in dietary fibre and have a cholesterol-lowering effect.

Blackberries

Packed with antioxidants and rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre, black berries are a nutritious addition to any fruit salad or dessert. Blackberries are rich in antioxidants such as anthocyanin pigments which gives them their purplish-black colour. Their antioxidant properties may impart health benefits,

Black Currants

Black currants are very rich in many phyto nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, essential fatty acids and minerals. In particular, black currants are known for their content of Vitamin C, GLA (gamma-linoleic acid, a very rare omega-6 essential fatty acid) and potassium. Black currants also contain potent anti-oxidants anthocynanins. So the next time you have blackcurrant ice cream, don’t feel too guilty!