Amla- Carrot Shot
I call it a shot because you do not need to drink this elixir in large quantities. A little amount goes a long way. That’s how strong amla and carrot together are. Amla (Indian gooseberry) (7) is one of the most antioxidant-rich food in the world. There are tons of research on this wonder berry that shows why amla is considered a superfood. This winter fruit contains antioxidants like vitamin C, gallic acid, phenolic compounds, tannins, fibers, minerals, proteins, and amino acids. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system. (3) Amla is proven to balance sugar,(8) improve liver health (2), fight cancer(1), help in better digestion, relieve constipation, and lower triglycerides and LDL(10). Amla helps reduce acid reflux symptoms (9). It also improves heart and kidney health, and not to forget, it is magical for hair and eyes. (1)
The nutrients in carrots include beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin A, vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants. (4) Beta carotene in carrots is responsible for lowering cholesterol, preventing several cancers, aiding in weight loss, and is great for eye health. (5) Amla carrot shot is excellent for iron absorption. (6) It contains both Vitamin C and Vitamin A that help absorbs non-heme sources of iron. I am adding ginger in small amounts to enhance its nutrient content as well as taste.
Amla and carrot are both available abundantly in winter. This is mother nature’s signal to us to consume more of it in winter. Fresh Amla is not easily available in the western world. It is readily available in the frozen section of any Indian store. You can also get it in powdered form online stores. Many people often drink juices after straining the fibrous part. It is always advisable not to waste the fibers as fibers contribute a lot to overall health. Adding black salt is optional, but it tremendously enhances the juice taste. I prefer to have this juice as a mid-morning snack.
Caution Amla is very effective in reducing blood sugar. It is better to have a glucometer handy to frequently check sugar levels if you are taking diabetes medications too. It is not advisable to consume amla immediately after surgery. This may increase bleeding risks. (11)
Serves- 4-5
Preparation time - 10 mins
Cooking time- 0 min
Total time - 10 mins
Ingredients
Amla- 2
Carrot- 2
Ginger – 1 inch
Black salt- ½ tsp (black salt)
Water- 1 ½ cups
Directions
1. Roughly chop amla, carrots, and ginger.
2. Add all the ingredients to a blender. Blend it for a minute.
3. Enjoy it fresh.
References