In the quest for pure and nutritious dietary options, spiritual leader Sadhguru has highlighted a remarkable milk alternative that is both sustainable and packed with health benefits. With growing concerns about milk adulteration and the search for wholesome nutrition, his insights offer a practical solution rooted in traditional wisdom.
Sadhguru's Recommendation: Groundnuts as a Complete Diet
Sadhguru, known for advocating sustainable living and mindful eating habits, emphasizes the value of groundnuts as an excellent substitute for milk. In a detailed post on the Isha Foundation website and YouTube, he explains that groundnuts, when prepared correctly, serve as a complete diet by themselves. This is particularly relevant in India, where many yogis adopt a 100% groundnut diet due to its nutritional completeness.
Why Groundnuts Are an Ideal Milk Alternative
Milk is traditionally valued for its high-quality protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and essential minerals like potassium and phosphorus, which support bone health, muscle growth, and nerve function. However, Sadhguru points out that groundnuts can effectively meet these dietary needs. He states that drinking one large glass of groundnut milkshake can keep you full for 4-5 hours, making it an ideal breakfast option that fulfills calcium requirements.
The Right Way to Consume Groundnuts
According to Sadhguru, groundnuts must be soaked for a minimum of six hours in water before consumption. This process removes certain aspects referred to as Pitta in Ayurveda, which can cause rashes and nausea if the nuts are eaten raw without soaking. This simple step enhances digestibility and maximizes nutritional benefits.
Easy Groundnut Milk Recipe
Preparing groundnut milk is straightforward. Soak a handful of groundnuts in water for six hours, then remove the peels. Blend the soaked groundnuts with water, adjusting the amount to achieve your desired consistency. This homemade milk is rich in protein and calcium, offering a fresh and pure alternative to commercial milk.
Sadhguru's Groundnut Milkshake Variation
For a more flavorful option, Sadhguru suggests blending soaked groundnuts with fruits like banana, mango, or jackfruit. Add a pinch of cardamom and honey for taste, then churn it well. This milkshake can be consumed as a porridge or drink, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Other Healthy Milk Alternatives
Beyond groundnuts, Sadhguru mentions horsegram as another beneficial milk alternative. It is a rich source of dietary iron, calcium, and protein. However, he notes that germination or sprouting horsegram increases the bioavailability of these nutrients, making them more absorbable by the body. Sprouted horsegram is easier to digest and can help balance body heat, especially useful during coughs and colds in rainy weather. To counter excess heat, it can be balanced with sprouted green gram.
Health Benefits of Peanuts
Scientific studies support the health advantages of peanuts, which are closely related to groundnuts. Research indicates that peanuts provide essential minerals like magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, and potassium, contributing to cardiovascular and bone health. They also contain bioactive compounds such as resveratrol, flavonoids, and phytosterols, which help block cholesterol absorption and promote longevity. Processing methods like roasting and boiling can enhance the concentration of these beneficial compounds.
Incorporating Sadhguru's advice into your diet can lead to improved nutrition and well-being, offering a sustainable and health-conscious approach to eating. By choosing natural alternatives like groundnut milk, you can enjoy a complete diet while avoiding the pitfalls of adulterated foods.