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Kokum has been a staple in Indian cooking for many years. It's commonly used to add flavor to curries, enhance summer beverages, and create the tasty sol kadhi. However, what’s fascinating is that this tangy, deep-purple fruit has also made a name for itself in the health realm. From coastal households to city cafes, kokum is gradually becoming a popular choice for those wanting to lose weight. Beyond its flavor and nostalgic value, kokum is rich in nutrients that aid digestion, lessen inflammation, and can even help reduce belly fat. The simplest way to enjoy its benefits is through a glass of kokum water. Let’s take a closer look at why incorporating kokum water into your daily routine is a good idea, particularly if you want to shed pounds the traditional way.
Kokum (Garcinia indica) is not merely a sour flavor enhancer. It is a nutrient-rich food filled with:
Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) - recognized for helping to burn fat and decrease appetite
Garcinol - a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory component
Vitamin C - enhances immune function and combats free radicals
Anthocyanins - natural colors that may help with aging and cancer prevention
Minerals - like potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron.
A study featured in The Pharma Innovation Journal points out that kokum also offers proteins, carbs, and essential fatty acids, adding to its value as a healthy food choice. Kokum water is not only a cooling drink for the summer; it is a powerful health beverage that aids in weight loss in several ways. Here’s how a straightforward glass of kokum water can naturally help you lose weight:
Reduces Cravings and Diminishes Hunger: The hydroxycitric acid (HCA) found in kokum might help control serotonin, the hormone that makes you feel good and also influences hunger. Kokum acts as a natural appetite suppressant. Drinking kokum water before eating can make you feel fuller quicker and lower your overall calorie consumption.
Improves Digestion and Relieves Bloating: Kokum encourages the production of digestive enzymes and bile, which assist in breaking down fats and alleviating acidity. It works particularly well after meals that are heavy or greasy.
Stops Fat Storage: HCA helps block citrate lyase, an enzyme that changes excess carbohydrates into fat. This might assist in decreasing belly fat and preventing further weight gain over time.
Anti-Inflammatory and Cleansing: Garcinol, an effective antioxidant present in kokum, combats inflammation, a hidden factor in weight gain. It also aids liver health and supports natural cleansing processes.
Low-Calorie, Hydrating, and Free from Sugar: Kokum water is naturally low in both calories and sugar, making it a wise choice instead of packaged drinks and sugary juices. It hydrates without raising blood sugar levels, which is excellent for those watching their weight.
Making kokum water at home is simple and requires only a few ingredients. Here’s how to make this tangy health drink that helps with digestion and reduces cravings. Follow these steps:
Ingredients:
4-5 dried kokum flowers (preferably sun-dried for the best health benefits)
1 glass of warm water
A small amount of black salt
A sprinkle of roasted cumin powder
A few fresh mint leaves (optional for extra freshness)
Method:
Place kokum flowers in warm water for 30 minutes to let them release their taste and color.
Mix well and pour the liquid into a glass after straining.
Add black salt, roasted cumin powder, and mint leaves.
Stir well and drink slowly, preferably before meals or as a refreshing drink in the morning.
To make a kokum concentrate, soak a larger quantity and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just mix with water whenever you want a quick and healthy drink. Kokum water is great for reducing cravings and aiding digestion before meals. Jeera and Methi water are best taken on an empty stomach to boost metabolism and control blood sugar. Amla juice and lemon-honey water are excellent for hydration and cleansing, especially in the morning.
Benefits:
Drink Prior to Meals: Consuming kokum water 20-30 minutes before eating might help lower hunger and control portion sizes naturally.
Combine With Fiber-Rich Foods: Pair kokum water with meals that include plenty of vegetables, whole grains, or beans. This can increase fullness and promote better digestion.
Be Consistent: Regularly drink kokum water for at least 2-3 weeks to start seeing noticeable improvements in digestion, bloating, and appetite management.
Avoid Sugar: Do not add jaggery, sugar, or sweeteners, particularly if you aim for weight loss. Its natural sourness is part of what makes it enjoyable.
Select Sun-Dried Kokum: Sun-dried kokum holds more antioxidants and flavor compared to commercially processed ones. Choose deep purple petals that feel slightly sticky.
Who Should Avoid Kokum Water?
Although kokum water is mostly safe and helpful, it might not be the right choice for everyone. Here are some situations where you should be careful:
Individuals With Low Blood Pressure: Kokum may slightly lower blood pressure. If your blood pressure is already low or you are taking medication, talk to your doctor before using it regularly.
Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women: There is limited information on how kokum affects pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s best to consume it sparingly and only with medical advice.
People With Acid Reflux or Hyperacidity: The sourness of kokum can worsen acid reflux, particularly if consumed on an empty stomach. Consider having it after meals instead, or skip it if you have ongoing symptoms.
Individuals With Kidney Issues: Kokum has certain compounds that may not be good for those with kidney problems. Always consult your doctor before including it in your daily diet.
If you're seeking a natural, budget-friendly, and traditional method to help with weight loss, kokum water is definitely worth considering. It's simple to prepare, full of health advantages, and easily fits into your daily life—whether as a morning cleanse, a pre-meal hunger controller, or a refreshing drink after exercising.
