From millets, oats, honey and more, these traditional ingredients are making a comeback in modern diets

Health benefits of quinoa: Its complete protein profile makes quinoa a popular addition to dishes like upma, khichdi, and pulao (Image: Canva)

Traditional ingredients are becoming popular again in modern diets as people look for natural, healthy foods. Items like turmeric, ghee, millets, and oats are valued for their health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and improving digestion. Once common in old-style cooking, these ingredients are now found in everything from smoothies to salads. As more people focus on overall wellness, they are turning to the tried-and-true foods of the past and mixing them with today’s eating habits.

More and more people are now turning to natural and nutritious food choices, sparking renewed interest in traditional ingredients, says Dr Shilpa Vora, Chief R&D Officer, Marico Ltd. “As health-consciousness grows, people are rediscovering their value and incorporating them into everyday meals,” she adds.

Dr Vora lists these 7 ingredients that are regaining popularity in modern diets:

Millets: Ancient grains such as Bajra, Jowar and Ragi, have been cultivated for years, particularly in Asia. Millets have made a comeback in modern diets in dishes from salads to porridge as they are naturally gluten-free and rich in fibre, magnesium, calcium, and iron.

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Oats: Oats are  known for their high fibre content and essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc. Traditionally eaten as porridge, oats, due to their creamy texture and versatility, are now embraced in various forms from granola to oat milk and included into savoury recipes in modern diets.

Turmeric: Used for centuries as medicine and cuisine, turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Recently, it has gained global popularity and is now featured in lattes, teas, and soups.

Lentils: Lentils have been a dietary staple for ages. Rich in protein, fibre, and iron, they are a plant-based powerhouse, essential in vegetarian and vegan diets, and used in soups and stews.

Honey: Honey has been cherished for its sweetness and medicinal properties for years. As a natural sweetener, it is making a comeback as people move away from refined sugars and prefer 100 percent pure and natural honey. It’s now widely used in baking, beverages, and dressings in modern diets.

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Quinoa: Recently embraced as a high-protein alternative to traditional grains, quinoa’s complete protein profile makes it a popular addition to dishes like upma, khichdi, and pulao. It offers a nutritious, gluten-free option for modern diets.

Barley: Used for centuries in traditional dishes and medicine, barley is rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. It’s regaining popularity for its digestive health benefits and is used in soups, stews, and salads. Barley water is also trending for its hydrating and detoxifying properties.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your health specialist for more information.