Why Do We Eat Saunf After Meals? Here’s What Grandma Knew (and Science Confirms)

Have you ever eaten an Indian meal out or gone round to someone's house and been offered a little bowl of saunf, or fennel seeds? It's one of those things we've all been brought up with, and if you asked your nan why, she'd just laugh and say, "It's good for your stomach." Well, as it turns out, she was right—and there's actually science behind it.

 

Digestion's Best Friend

Fennel seeds are famous for their digestive benefits. If you chew them properly after eating, they make your body release digestive juices. They digest your food and prevent things like bloating, gas, and indigestion from happening. If you ever felt a bit nauseous after a heavy meal, a pinch of saunf can actually soothe your stomach.

 

Nature's Remedy for Acidity

Most individuals reach for antacids after eating hot or fried foods. Saunf accomplishes the same thing naturally. Its cooling effect neutralizes stomach acid, which can help eliminate heartburn and that burning feeling some foods cause.

 

Fresh Breath, Naturally

Restaurants place fennel seeds by the door for a reason. Saunf chewing prevents you from having bad breath. The seeds have natural oils inside them that reduce bacteria in your mouth, so you go out with fresh mouth.

 

Reduces Gas and Bloating

Fennel seeds calm your digestive system's muscles. This makes it easy for your body to expel clogged-up gas, which is especially useful after eating a big meal. It is a gentle remedy that suits all, the young and the old.

 

More Than A Common Digestive Aid

Saunf is not just for digestion. It's full of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and iron. It's reported to regulate blood pressure and even cardiovascular health in certain research. There's even study that fennel seeds help regulate hormones and lactation in breastfeeding women.

 

How to use Saunf?

You don't need a complex recipe. Most just chew a small pinch after eating. If you want to do something different, you can boil the seeds in water to create fennel tea. You will also be using saunf in all types of Indian food, ranging from curries to sweets.

 

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Saunf is safe for all, but if you have a special medical condition or a special diet, it's always best to consult your doctor before incorporating it into your regimen. The Bottom Line Chewing on saunf in between meals isn't some weird family quirk. It's easy, it's natural, and it helps your body digest food, clean the breath, and possibly even score some brownie points for health. Grandma was not a doctor, but trust her, she knew what she was doing.

 

Sources: Times of India, Healthians, 1mg, Redcliffe Labs, Moneycontrol, Practo