Thai foods fascinate people around the globe. It is not a rare sight to see a Thai restaurant or a street vendor selling authentic and traditional Thai foods anymore.
But, apart from just enjoying a plate/ bowl full of delicious Tom Yum Goong or any other incredible Thai dishes, did you know Thai foods can have numerous positive health benefits?
In fact, a study conducted by numerous health organizations supports the claim that Thai foods are indeed one of the healthiest foods around the world. How? The primary contributing factor to the health benefits of Thai foods lies in their unique blend of herbs and spices.
One particular Thai food that has been proven to have a multitude of health benefits is the Tom Yum Goong soup. Researchers are still finding exciting and positive benefits of the soup, and the role that it plays in strengthening our immune system.
So what makes Thai food different from other cultural foods? The key component (s) that makes Thai food uses various health-benefiting condiments that they implement on their dishes.
- Galangal/ Ginger
This is one of the traditional and key components of authentic Thai foods. It belongs to the family of ginger, and in most part of the western countries, people use ginger as a replacement due to their limited availability. However, both the normal ginger and Galangal have identical health benefits. They play a crucial role in aiding digestive-related issues.
Galangal has been popularly referred to as the “spice of life” throughout history for their various health benefits such as relieving abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, improving blood circulation, arthritis, etc.
- Chilli Pepper
You probably see the use of traditional chilli peppers in almost all the various Thai food menu, and you will be glad to see them on your next Thai food item. Thai foods do not just implement the normal chilli peppers that you see on a normal food market. These peppers are made from scratch and free from any type of chemical manipulation. They play a crucial role in clearing up the congestion and aid the respiratory system. It also acts as an excellent inflammatory agent.
- Lemongrass
Lemongrass is another herb that is synonymous to traditional Thai foods. Although it is a common herb, it has been known for its various health beneficial factors since ancient Chinese times. It has been used for medicinal purposes to treat conditions such as –
- Fever
- Arthritis
- Cold and flu
- Fungal infections, etc
All these factors contribute to making lemongrass an effective and highly health-beneficial component.
- Coconut milk
Coconut milk has a very “controversial” reputation when it comes to its health-beneficial aspects. However, recent studies suggest that coconut milk has a fair share in contributing positively to our health (consumption in limited quantity, of course!). Coconut milk has the following advantages –
- Improves the immune system
- Boost metabolic functions
- Helps in slowing down the aging process
- Promotes good cholesterol level
- Garlic
Garlic is probably one of the most health-benefiting spices in existence. It is rich in manganese and several sources of vitamins, and this helps in reducing blood pressure aka hypertension. Garlic also helps in lowering the cholesterol level and reduces the risk of heart diseases as well.
On top of all that, Thai foods are delicious. What more does one need? A delicious bowl of food that is actually healthy sounds like an ideal plate of food. Search for Thai Food near me to enjoy the meal and enhance your health as well.
