Dal is a comforting staple in Indian kitchens, known for being rich in protein, fibre, and minerals, but many people find it difficult to digest, leading to bloating or discomfort. According to nutrition expert Khushi Chhabra, a few small tweaks in preparation and cooking can make dal lighter on the stomach and even help balance blood sugar levels naturally.
Khushi Chhabra, a holistic health and diabetes nutritionist, recently shared tips on making dal more gut-friendly in a video post. She explained that while dal is highly nutritious, improper preparation can cause digestive issues for those with sensitive guts. The key lies in selecting the right type of dal, soaking it properly, and adding digestion-supporting ingredients during cooking.
Best Dal for Easy Digestion
The nutritionist recommends starting with yellow moong dal, known to be the lightest and most digestible among all lentils. Green moong dal and toor dal are also good options as the body gradually builds digestive tolerance. Khushi suggests eating moong dal once or twice a week to observe how the gut reacts before moving on to other varieties.
Soaking for Better Digestion
One of the simplest and most effective ways to make dal more digestible is soaking it for two to three hours or overnight. This process helps reduce lectins, compounds that may contribute to gas and bloating. Soaking also enhances the absorption of nutrients during digestion.
Cooking with Gut-Friendly Ingredients
Khushi advises adding a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar (ACV) while boiling dal. This not only improves nutrient absorption but also helps stabilize blood sugar levels after meals. She also highlights the importance of using traditional Indian spices like ginger (adrak) and asafoetida (hing) in the tadka. Both ingredients are known for their powerful anti-bloating and digestive benefits, making dal easier to digest and more gut-friendly.
A Holistic Way to Enjoy Dal
With these small adjustments — soaking, choosing the right dal, and adding digestion-friendly ingredients — you can continue enjoying dal without discomfort. These tips align with holistic eating practices that promote gut health, improve metabolism, and maintain balanced blood sugar levels naturally.
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes and not a substitute for medical advice.
