Ponk or Paunk is an Indian snack made with tender roasted sorghum grains and a few more ingredients such as Sev and lemon juice. It is a speciality of Surat, a city in Gujarat and is extremely popular as a winter snack in Gujarat, Maharashtra and a few other states in India.
As a warm winter snack, Ponk is usually eaten in the months from November to February. It is made from freshly harvested sorghum grains, which is an Indian gluten-free grain with numerous health benefits to offer.
Nutrients Found in Ponk
Ponk is a rich source of protein, which is extremely important for building muscles and regenerating cells in the body. Tender sorghum is also packed with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It is a rich source of calcium, copper, zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin B1, B2, B5 and B6.
Benefits of Eating Ponk in Winters
- Rich in Fibre:
Ponk is packed with dietary fibre. Therefore, it helps to strengthen the gut and facilitate digestion in the body. As it is rich in fibres, Ponk not only helps to alleviate stomach ache, bloating, flatulence, etc but also to manage obesity and diabetes.
- Regulates Insulin Levels
Ponk is a complex carbohydrate and can be digested slowly. It does not spike blood sugar levels and is ideal for people with diabetes. Ponk is also effective in regulating blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity in the body.
- Lowers Cholesterol Levels
Ponk is highly effective in reducing bad cholesterol in the body. It is, therefore, one of the best snacks for people with heart diseases, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.
- Safe for People with Celiac Disease
People with celiac disease have gluten intolerance. Ponk is made from sorghum, a gluten-free grain, making it a safe and healthy option for people who have gluten sensitivity.
- Rich in Antioxidants
Oxidative stress can lead to many diseases in the body, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, etc. Ponk is rich in antioxidants and, therefore, helps to fight oxidative stress and eliminate free radical damage in the body.
- Aids in Weight Loss
Ponk is rich in dietary fibres and helps to facilitate metabolic activities in the body. Hence, it is highly beneficial in reducing excess weight in the body.
Takeaway:
Ponk or Paunk offers many health benefits to the body. Eating this snack during the winters can help the body replenish essential vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. As sorghum is a gluten-free grain, it also provides a safe option for people who have gluten sensitivity. It is highly beneficial for people with diabetes and heart diseases.
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