Kamakasturi Seeds for Weight Loss

Basil seeds are hailed as the new superfood. These sweet black seeds are a host of essential nutrients that possess amazing healing properties. From managing diabetes to combating obesity, the benefits of Basil seeds are research-proven. In this blog, I am going to reveal the amazing ways to use Basil seeds for weight loss!

Basil seeds also known as Sabja seeds or Kamakasturi seeds are very versatile.

They have been used in Ayurvedic treatment for more than 1000 years. From relieving bloating to curing constipation, sweet basil seeds come in handy for relieving your troubles. However, the popularity of basil seeds has surged beyond borders for their weight loss properties. 

When soaked in water, basil seeds swell up and release digestive enzymes. This gelatinous substance helps in slowing down the process of digestion. These seeds also aid in delaying the release of glucose into the bloodstream. This aids in preventing obesity and overeating.

Also Read: Beetroot for weight loss

But before I tell you more about the weight loss benefits of Basil Seeds, check out its impressive nutrition profile –

The nutrition profile of Basil Seeds

Basil seeds are loaded with vitamins and minerals. It is a host of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron along with vitamins A, B-complex, E, and K. All of these are essential for weight management.

1. It is a mine of minerals

Basil seeds are a well of many essential minerals. It contains calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, folic acid – all in the right amounts. AddingBasil seeds to your daily diet help in fulfilling your dietary requirement.

Research says, around 100 grams of Basil seeds serve up to 244 % of calcium, 178% of magnesium. 499% of iron, 56% of potassium, and 78% of folic acid of the daily recommended dose.

2. It is a superior source of Vitamin E

Basil seeds are a superb source of Vitamin E. It helps in hydrating the skin from within and helps in reducing itching, soothing eczema, and treating psoriasis. Vitamin E further speeds up the process of wound healing. It also improves vision and slows down the signs of premature aging. 

3. Find your Fibre in basil seeds!

Basil seeds are very rich in fiber which promotes the feeling of fullness and reduces hunger pangs. This makes them great weight-loss food. In addition to that, high-fiber foods are also helpful in regulating bowel movements. 

4. Basil seeds are Loaded with Protein

The jelly seeds are an excellent natural source of dietary protein. 100 grams of basil seeds satiates 20% of the dietary requirement of proteins. This is a great source of protein for vegetarians. 

5. A powerhouse of Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Basil seeds are a powerhouse of omega 3 fatty acids. This nutrient is very beneficial in fighting depression, anxiety, ADHD and improving vision and fetal development. It also helps in reducing the risk of heart-related problems. 

With such a prolific nutritional profile, these little seeds have many health benefits to offer. But most importantly it helps in battling the chronic pandemic of obesity by accelerating the process of weight loss.

Also Read: Sprouts for Weight loss

Basil Seeds for weight loss – Research-backed benefits!

Research says drinking water infused with basil seeds on empty stomach is a proven method to lose weight. These seeds are low in calories and high in nutrients. It’s a well of calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, along with multivitamins.

Basil seeds contain a rich amount of linolenic acid. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, daily consumption of linolenic acid results in fat loss. Another paper titled ‘effects of sweet basil seed on human body composition’ established its weight loss benefits.

Also Read: Ways to beat middle-age weight gain

1. It helps control your Hunger Pangs

Ayurveda says eating soaked basil seeds before your meal works as an appetite suppressant. It is low on calories and loaded with nutrients. Thus, basil seeds not only suppress your hunger but also help you meet your daily dietary requirements. 

2. It fuels your Fibre intake

Basil seeds are an exceptional source of fiber. Just 4 grams of basil seeds contain more fiber than a whole bulb of lettuce or spinach. As I already said, if you want to keep your hunger pangs under control then amp up your fibers. 

3. It helps curb your Calories

These black jelly seeds are extremely low on calories. Rich in protein, carbs, fiber, and essential minerals, it surprisingly contains no calories. This is another perk of basil seed; it offers nutrition and satiation without calories.   

4. Basil seeds boost your Digestion mechanism

Research proves that basil seeds are very beneficial for gut health. It also works well as a detoxifying drink by regulating smooth bowel and urination. Proper digestion and detoxification play a crucial role in regulating your weight. 

5. It is high in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)

Basil seeds are high on alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This helps in stimulating fat-burning metabolism in the body. ALA further helps boost metabolism and burns extra fat. 

Also Read: Health Benefits of Basil seeds

How to Consume Basil Seeds?

The black basil seeds come from sweet basil plants. These are very hard and cannot be consumed raw. You can soak them in water for 30 minutes. The mildly fragrant sweet seeds are naturally gelatinous. When soaked in water, they become soft and translucent.

After swelling the seeds become at least twice the size. And each seed gets coated with a white film. This starts releasing antioxidants and digestive enzymes. You can add these amazing seeds to your diet in a variety of ways.

Here are a few tips to add basil seeds to your diet – 

• You can use basil seeds for garnishing on top of ice creams, desserts and soups.
• Add these seeds to your salads and snacks to increase the fibre content. 
• It also goes well with cereal, yoghurt, puddings, or almost any other food. 

Also Read: How to use Basil in cooking?

Caution!

Please consult a doctor before adding Basil seeds to your diet if you have health complications. It is well tolerated in most people when consumed in a regulated amount. The ideal potion suggested by Ayurvedic doctors is 1 teaspoon in a day!

Exceeding this recommended dosage can cause several side effects. Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, acne, acid reflux, headache, and loss of appetite. Basil seeds are also not recommended in children and pregnant women.

Also Read – Wine and Weight Gain: How the glass of wine affects your waistline?

Basil Seeds for Weight Loss – The final note!

The wet jelly seeds are packed with super-rich nutrients. This superfood helps you in shedding stubborn belly fats without having to compromise on the nutrition quotient. Unlike modern fad diets, this amazing food aids in weight loss while making your skin and hair healthy. 

To enjoy the best benefits of these seeds, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Add these seeds to garnish your foods and beverages and enjoy a plethora of benefits. It aids in relieving conditions like blood pressure, cholesterol, depression, and diabetes. Sabja seeds aid in correcting your metabolic imbalances. 

In recent times, researchers have proved the efficacy of Basil in weight loss. The best recipe is to add these slimy seeds to lemon, honey, and warm water. Drink it every morning on an empty stomach for the best results!