Should you add jalebi in your diet or not?

In fact, it is considered one of the most fattening foods. Let's understand why. 

Jalebi is high in calories, with a single 55-gram serving. It contains approximately 150 calories, 3.5 grams of fat, 29 grams of carbohydrates, and 1.3 grams of protein.

It is made from refined wheat flour, fried in trans fats, and then soaked in sugar syrup. Trans fats are the worst type of fat for the body as they lower good cholesterol levels and increase bad cholesterol levels.

The other ingredients, such as refined wheat flour, have very few vitamins and minerals. The high amount of sugar can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, leading to insulin resistance. Altogether, consuming jalebi regularly can lead to health issues such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

Furthermore, jalebis contain no fiber, leading to digestive problems such as constipation, and can even increase food cravings.

Now we know why our favorite dessert is not healthy but that doesn't mean we have to give up Jalebi altogether. There are healthier homemade versions of jalebi that can be enjoyed in moderation.

For instance, jalebis can be made using whole grain flour instead of refined flour, which will provide more fiber and nutrients. Additionally, using natural sweeteners like honey, jaggery or stevia sweetener instead of white sugar can also make a significant difference in the nutritional value of jalebi.

It's important to consume jalebi in moderation. Consuming a small portion of jalebi once in a while is unlikely to cause extreme harm, but it's essential to balance it out with other nutritious foods that are low in calories and high in nutrients.

FAQs:

Is jalebi healthy to eat?

Jalebi is not considered a healthy food because it is deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup. It contains large amounts of refined flour, sugar, and oil which provide empty calories without any essential nutrients. Eating jalebi often can increase the risk of weight gain, high blood sugar, and poor heart health. It may also lead to digestive discomfort due to its heavy and oily nature. For health-conscious individuals, jalebi should be enjoyed rarely as a treat.

How many calories are in 1 jalebi?

One medium-sized jalebi contains around 150 to 200 calories depending on its size and preparation. The calories mostly come from sugar and oil, which make it energy-dense but not nutrient-rich. A serving of two to three jalebis can easily cross 400 to 500 calories, which is equal to a full meal. This makes jalebi a high-calorie sweet with little nutritional value. People monitoring their weight or blood sugar should keep this in mind before eating.

Can we eat jalebi while dieting?

Jalebi is not recommended for dieting because it is high in sugar, oil, and refined flour. These ingredients make it calorie-dense without providing protein, fiber, or essential nutrients. Eating jalebi during a diet can slow weight loss progress and cause blood sugar spikes. However, if someone craves it, a very small piece can be taken occasionally as part of a controlled cheat meal. Consistency in avoiding such sweets is more effective for achieving diet goals.

Is jalebi high in protein?

Jalebi is not high in protein, as it is made from refined flour, sugar, and fried in oil. These ingredients mainly provide carbohydrates and fats, with almost no protein content. Protein is essential for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall health, which jalebi does not support. On average, one piece of jalebi provides less than 1 gram of protein. This makes it a poor choice for those looking to meet their protein needs.

What is the best time to eat jalebi?

The best time to eat jalebi is during the day, preferably in the morning or early afternoon. Eating it at these times allows the body more hours to digest the heavy sugars and fats. Having jalebi late at night can cause indigestion, disturbed sleep, and unnecessary fat storage. It is often enjoyed with breakfast items like puri or tea in traditional settings. To minimize its negative impact, jalebi should always be eaten in moderation and not on an empty stomach.