GO NUTS FOR THESE HEALTHY SWEET TREATS

With the growing awareness of the dangers of sugar, people are cutting back and cutting out desserts and sweet snacks. However, there are some traditional favourites that you can snack on without guilt… after first consulting your doctor in case you are diabetic or have any allergy to nuts.

Every Indian child has grown up with Chikki – a healthy, power packed peanut snack, made with jaggery and peanuts. It is believed that Chikki is not only good for your health but has beauty benefits as well! The combination of precious vitamins and proteins, elevated by the iron in the jaggery, make it a delicious, healthy treat.

The mono-unsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid in Peanut Chikki, is believed to lower bad cholesterol in the blood, thereby preventing Coronary Artery Disease and strokes.

Peanut Chikki is also believed to ward off skin ailments. Its anti-inflammatory properties are believed to prevent diseases like psoriasis and eczema. As peanuts are rich in Vitamin E, Zinc and Magnesium, Peanut Chikki keeps the skin glowing and fights bacteria that causes acne. Peanuts are also known to help with cell regeneration by boosting collagen synthesis.

Here’s another reason to snack on Peanut Chikki – it fights against nervous diseases, as the jaggery present in Chikki is rich in antioxidants and phytophenols that help in dissolving blood clots and preventing nervous diseases.

Some nutritionists advocate the intake of Sesame Chikki as sesame seeds are a great source of protein, fatty acids and amino acids. Til or sesame seeds are known to improve insulin sensitivity, while their mineral-rich properties improve fertility. Til is rich in calcium and is recommended for the improvement of bones and thyroid health. Til also has fatty acids that improve Cardio-vascular health by regulating blood pressure.

Sesame seeds have been proven to have anti-cancer properties and can stave off breast and colon cancer. Some phytochemicals in the sesame seeds also boost the metabolism and enhance the body’s fat burning abilities.

So, next time you’re craving a sweet treat, reach for Chikki! You can bolster your health and enjoy a satisfying snack all in one go