Saffron(Kesar) | 1g

Saffron is rich in antioxidants and possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may offer a range of benefits, including improved mood and memory, better heart health by lowering bad cholesterol, and potential protection against certain cancers. It can also help manage blood sugar levels, reduce appetite to aid weight loss, and promote overall skin health by brightening and improving texture. Some studies suggest it may also help with PMS symptoms and improve sexual function in men. 

Key Health Benefits
Antioxidant Properties:
Saffron contains powerful antioxidants like crocin, crocetin, and safranal that protect the body from damage by free radicals. 
Mood and Mental Health:
It may help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, and has potential benefits for memory and cognitive function. 
Heart Health:
Saffron can help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol and increase HDL ("good") cholesterol, which supports overall cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of cardiac issues. 
Cancer Protection:
Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help kill cancer cells and suppress the growth of tumors in certain cancers. 
Weight Management:
Saffron can help control appetite and cravings, potentially aiding in weight loss by reducing overall fat mass. 
PMS Relief:
It provides relief from symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as cramps, pain, and mood swings. 
Eye Health:
Saffron may protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in older adults. 
Blood Sugar Regulation:
It can help lower fasting blood glucose levels, showing promise for managing type 2 diabetes. 
Improved Skin:
Saffron acts as a skin brightener and can improve skin tone, texture, and reduce pigmentation, giving the skin a healthier glow. 
Consumption of Saffron everyday
A daily intake of 20-30 mg of saffron extract is a generally recommended dosage for adults to achieve health benefits for conditions like depression, while a daily dose of up to 1.5 grams (1500 mg) is considered safe for general use. However, doses of 5 grams or more can be toxic and should be avoided, especially by pregnant individuals, as they may cause miscarriage. Saffron should always be purchased from a reputable brand to ensure purity and authenticity.  
The Best time to consume saffron:
The best time to consume saffron depends on its intended benefit: consume saffron in the morning for a natural energy boost and to improve your mood, or before bed to promote relaxation and better sleep. It can be consumed on an empty stomach in the morning, and for those focusing on mood or energy, consistency in daily consumption is more important than the specific time. 
Morning for Energy and Mood 
Energy Boost:
Drinking saffron water in the morning can provide energy and help you stay active throughout the day. 
Mood Enhancement:
Saffron has potential mood-enhancing effects, and taking it in the morning can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and symptoms of mild depression. 
Evening for Relaxation and Sleep 
Promotes Sleep:
The calming and sedative properties of saffron can help relax your mind and body, leading to better quality sleep. 
Reduces Tension:
Consuming saffron milk or tea before bed can help reduce tension and anxiety, making it a good bedtime drink. 
Nutritional Composition of Saffron :
A 1-teaspoon serving of saffron (about 0.7 grams) contains approximately 2.17 calories, 0.04g of total fat, 0.5g of carbohydrates, and 0.1g of protein. While low in calories and macronutrients, a teaspoon provides 0.08mg of iron, 1.85mg of magnesium, 0.199mg of manganese (9% of the daily value), and small amounts of other vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, Potassium, and Copper.  
Here is a breakdown of the key nutrients in 1 teaspoon (0.7g) of saffron:
Macronutrients: 
Calories: 2.17
Protein: 0.08 g
Carbohydrates: 0.5 g
Fiber: 0.03 g
Total Fat: 0.041 g
Vitamins: 
Vitamin A: 0.19 mcg (0% DV)
Vitamin C: 0.6 mg (1% DV)
Folate: 0.65 mcg (0% DV)
Minerals: 
Iron: 0.08 mg (0% DV)
Magnesium: 1.85 mg (0% DV)
Manganese: 0.199 mg (9% DV)
Potassium: 12.07 mg (0% DV)
Copper: 0.00 mg (0% DV)
Calcium: 0.78 mg (0% DV)
Phosphorus: 1.76 mg (0% DV)