Modak’s Surprising Health Benefits and How The Coconut Filling Contributes

Introduction
Modaks are connected with festivities, celebrations, prayer, and happiness, particularly during Ganesha Chaturthi, which is observed by many Hindus worldwide. Satori, Puran Poli (both sweet flatbreads), shrikhand, and laddoo are popular meals during the 10-day celebration.

But none is more popular than Modak during this event. Modak (together with Motichoor Laddoo) is considered Lord Ganesha's favorite meal. For those unfamiliar with this classic Indian treat, it resembles a dumpling with a pointed top and is served steaming throughout the festival.

You may be wondering if this delectable treat is good for you. Let us investigate.

What Is a Modak Made Of?
The exterior shell of most Modaks is constructed of either wheat flour or rice flour, which serves as a structure and transporter for the delicious fillings. Fried Modaks are normally cooked using wheat flour (atta), whereas steaming Modaks are produced with pulverized rice flour during the 10-day Ganesh festival.

The filling is made from a mixture of coconut and jaggery, which is cooked in ghee. Of course, apart from these base ingredients, there are always several additions to the filling. Nuts are a common addition to Modaks while another essential ingredient is cardamom (usually in powder form). Some people add their own twist to this delicious sweet, each with slightly different ingredients to the filling.

Since steamed Modaks are not fried in oil, they are considered the healthier of the two variants of Modak. But what are the health benefits of Modaks?

How Healthy Are Modaks?
The filling's key ingredients (coconut and jaggery) both have significant nutritional and health benefits, with coconut being the star of the show. Coconut has long been utilized in Indian traditional cuisine, both in savory meals like curries and in desserts and delicacies. Modak has the following health benefits:

Modaks may aid in the treatment of constipation. Because the filling is cooked in ghee, it is supposed to aid with stomach lining formation and bowel movement. Furthermore, the coconut adds a lot of nutritional fibre, which is good for a healthy digestive tract.
Another advantage of coconut is that it contains healthy fat, fiber, antioxidants, and minerals.

Ghee contains vital nutrients such as vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids. When ingested in moderation, it may also help lower gastrointestinal inflammation and improve heart health. Coconut (and other dry fruit additions) in the filling, on the other hand, include plant sterols that assist to reduce LDL and enhance HDL (good cholesterol).
Modak with its filling, taken as a whole, may have a low glycemic index, but only when consumed in moderation. Despite the fact that much more research is needed, this sweet may have a steady and safe blood sugar reaction.
Butyric acid may aid in the reduction of inflammation throughout the body and is beneficial to your joints, which is why ghee has been used as a traditional remedy for such ailments.

Rice flour includes Vitamin B1 and sugars, which assist to curb sugar cravings and may be beneficial during PMS. Furthermore, because it contains healthy fats, carbohydrates, and fiber, it is a healthy ingredient. However, if consumed in excess, it can encourage weight gain, so always consume in moderation.
Apart from its numerous benefits like as healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, coconut is also high in manganese, which is essential for bone health. Manganese is also required by the organism for the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins.

What are the disadvantages of Modak?
Modaks, as previously stated, can cause health problems such as weight gain when consumed in excess.

Although jaggery is regarded safer and healthier than refined sugar, it may contribute to a sudden increase in blood sugar levels. According to your doctor's recommendations, diabetics should avoid both jaggery and sugar.

Should You Consume Modak?
If you don’t have any underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, this sweet is absolutely healthy for you. It may even benefit your entire health and mind, and it certainly makes this celebration more enjoyable! However, it is advised to limit your intake of rich foods, particularly Modak’s, during these festival days. Avoid eating too many Modaks in one sitting, and keep track of how many you consume over these days. If you have long-term medical difficulties, consult your doctor about what foods you can consume during Ganesh Chaturthi to avoid health complications.

Alternatives that are healthier
Because typical modaks have significant drawbacks because to the jaggery and flour used, here are some healthier alternatives:

You can make a healthy sugar-free modak that is 100% safe for diabetics by combining dates, walnuts, almonds, cashews, and sugar-free sweeteners. Make sure to use nutritious flour and steam the modaks instead of deep frying, which may not be the healthiest alternative.
To make a one-of-a-kind minty modak, combine mint leaves, sunflower oil, powdered cardamom, and less jaggery.