Vitamin B12 deficiency is often found in vegetarians. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum), a spice found in kitchens, is very beneficial in fulfilling this deficiency. It can be included in the diet in powdered form, as a tempering (tadka), as cumin water, or mixed with flour. Besides addressing B12 deficiency, cumin helps improve digestion and maintain overall health.
Vitamin B12 In Food: A deficiency of Vitamin B12 in the body can lead to fatigue, weakness, anemia, and nervous system problems. Fulfilling this deficiency is a challenge for vegetarians, but cumin (Cuminum cyminum), a common kitchen spice, is an effective solution. Cumin can be consumed as powder, in tempering, as cumin water, or mixed with flour. This helps to overcome B12 deficiency and also keeps the digestive system healthy.
Cumin: The Kitchen's Super Spice
Most people use cumin daily in vegetables and lentils, but few are aware that this spice is rich in Vitamin B12. Cumin, or Cuminum cyminum, helps in overcoming Vitamin B12 deficiency in the body. It is easy to incorporate into your diet and offers numerous benefits.
In the form of Cumin Powder
Lightly roast cumin and grind it into a powder. This powder can be sprinkled on salads, raita, or yogurt. You can also use it in vegetable dishes. Both roasted or raw cumin powder options are effective. Consuming a small amount of cumin powder daily can help meet the Vitamin B12 requirements.
As Cumin Tempering (Tadka)
Adding cumin when tempering vegetables or lentils is very beneficial. Tempering vegetables or dals with cumin is an easy way to address Vitamin B12 deficiency. Additionally, tempering enhances the flavor of food and makes it more digestible.
Mixed with Flour
For those who wish to consume cumin in larger quantities, mixing cumin powder into flour to make rotis is an excellent option. Adding cumin powder to the dough does not significantly alter the taste and allows for easy integration of Vitamin B12 into the daily diet. This also keeps the stomach healthy and improves the body's nutritional levels.
Cumin Water
Drinking cumin water on an empty stomach in the morning provides the body with Vitamin B12 and also improves digestion. To prepare it, soak one teaspoon of cumin in a glass of water overnight. In the morning, strain and drink the water. Regular consumption of cumin water strengthens the digestive system and reduces the deficiency of essential nutrients in the body.
Special Benefits for Vegetarians
Vitamin B12 deficiency is more common among vegetarians as it is primarily found in animal products. In such cases, regular consumption of spices like cumin can become a good source of nutrition for them. It not only fulfills the B12 deficiency but also makes daily meals more flavorful and digestible.
Easy to Include in Daily Diet
Cumin is a staple in every household kitchen. It can be easily incorporated into vegetables, lentils, salads, raita, rotis, and water. Making small changes makes it easier to overcome Vitamin B12 deficiency. Correct usage of cumin daily fulfills the body's needs and improves overall health.
