What if one glass of a tangy, purple drink could transform your gut health and immunity?

Kanji is a classic Indian probiotic drink. It's made by fermenting black carrots (or sometimes beets) with mustard seeds, water, and salt until they develop a tangy flavor. 

People have been drinking Kanji for ages because it tastes tangy and earthy, making it suitable for your gut. Lately, it has become popular again as people search for simple ways to keep their gut health strong and enjoy the benefits of Kanji for overall wellness.

What Is Kanji?

Kanji is well known as: 

• A fermented drink that people in North India usually make in the winter.
• Prepared with black carrots, mustard powder, and water. Then, let it sit for 3-4 days to ferment.
• It's full of natural, good bacteria (probiotics), which are great for your gut.
• It is often enjoyed as a digestive appetizer or an immunity booster.

Nutritional Value of Kanji 

Kanji is a healthy drink that's low in calories and full of good bacteria. It is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals. Drinking Kanji daily is a natural way to enjoy its benefits, including improved digestion, better hydration, and enhanced immunity. 

Approx. Nutritional Content of Kanji Per 200-250 ml Glass

Nutrient	Amount	Benefits
Calories	24-50kcal	Helps in weight management, light refreshment
Carbohydrates	3-10 g	Quick energy, prebiotic fiber
Protein	0.8-2.6g	Supports muscle and cell repair
Fiber	1.6-3 g	Aids digestion, regulates bowel movements
Fat	0.8g	Heart health, vitamin absorption
Vitamin A	50-100 mcg per glass	Eye health, immune support
Vitamin C	3.5-8 mg	Immunity, antioxidant, and collagen synthesis
Vitamin K	7.9 mcg	Bone health, blood clotting

Additionally, antioxidants, especially anthocyanins from black carrots, probiotics that are naturally gut-friendly bacteria, and minerals from iron, potassium, and magnesium make it a nutrition-packed punch to drink regularly. 

Top 10 Kanji Benefits for Health & Wellness

If you want to improve your digestion, immunity, or skin health, drinking Kanji can be an excellent option for your well-being. 

1. Improves digestion

Kanji is a simple drink designed to support a healthy digestive system. Its probiotics support your gut flora, reduce bloating, and improve nutrient absorption, helping prevent constipation and maintain digestive health. 

2. Boost the immune system

Kanji contains probiotics, antioxidants, and vitamins that support your immune system. Drinking it regularly can help you fight infections, resist seasonal colds, and generally stay healthy by keeping harmful bacteria in check. 

3. Detoxifies the body

Kanji has natural cleansing abilities that aid in the removal of toxins. Fermentation increases antioxidants to fight free radicals, cleans your gut, and helps your liver function properly, which leads to better detox and overall health.

4. Weight management

Kanji is low in calories but packed with probiotics. It helps with your metabolism and prevents fat accumulation. Additionally, it can help curb those stubborn cravings and make you feel full, enabling you to maintain a healthy weight when you eat well and live a healthy life.

5. Enhances skin health

Kanji's antioxidants and probiotics can help reduce inflammation, fight pimples, and improve your skin's appearance. It cleanses your blood and keeps you hydrated with nutrients that promote healthy & glowing skin. 

6. Promotes gut health

Kanji, being a natural probiotic, is great for your gut. It balances out the good and bad bacteria, which can help with digestion and improve nutrient absorption. Plus, it reduces acidity, strengthens your gut, and prevents harmful bacteria from growing, keeping your digestion in good shape.

7. Improves liver function

Another benefit of kanji is that it can help your liver eliminate toxins by breaking them down. It contains antioxidants that protect liver cells and probiotics that aid in the processing of fats and nutrients, thereby maintaining liver health.

8. Hydrates the body

Kanji is a cool fermented drink that replenishes fluids, prevents dehydration, and restores electrolytes. It's great for the summer since it cools you down and keeps you going all day. 

9. Regulates blood sugar levels

Kanji's probiotics help your body use insulin better and keep your blood sugar steady. Its low glycemic impact makes it suitable for diabetics, helping them naturally control their sugar levels while also keeping their metabolism healthy.

10. Better heart health

Kanji is full of antioxidants and nutrients. It can help lower your cholesterol, improve blood circulation, and reduce stress in your body. Drinking it regularly is good for your heart as it can reduce inflammation and the chance of heart problems.

How to Make Kanji at Home? 

Making kanji is rewarding and straightforward. The best thing about making it yourself is that you enjoy all the Kanji benefits naturally, without preservatives or extra sugar. All you need are a few ingredients and some time for them to ferment into a drink rich in probiotics. 

Ingredients:

• 4-5 black carrots (or beetroot + carrots)
• 2 tbsp mustard seeds (coarsely ground)
• 1 tsp black salt
• 1 liter of water

Method:

1. Wash and cut carrots/beets. 
2. Place in a clean glass jar. Then, add crushed mustard seeds, salt, and water.
3. Cover it with a muslin cloth.
4. Let it ferment in sunlight for 3-4 days.
5. Stir regularly. 
6. Once Kanji develops a tangy flavor, it is ready to serve chilled.

Expert Tip: When To Make Kanji?

Traditionally, Kanji is consumed in winter. It offers a good substitute for sugary drinks. 

You can take it in the morning on an empty stomach or before meals. Moderation is key (½-1 glass per day) to maximize the advantages of Kanji for digestion and the immune system. 

Different Variations of Kanji Water

You can try unique flavors of Kanji while still reaping its advantages for digestion and immunity. 

1. Beetroot Kanji

This vibrant red Kanji version is rich in folate, iron, and antioxidants. It is excellent for detox and blood health. 

2. Carrot-only Kanji

Prepared with orange or red carrots, this version of Kanji is slightly sweeter. It is still packed with natural probiotics that help with digestion. 

3. Spiced Kanji

During fermentation, ginger, green chillis, or carrom seeds are needed to help enhance the digestive benefits and add a warming flavor. 

4. Mixed Vegetable Kanji

Prepare a nutrient-rich, probiotic drink with turnips or cauliflower stems, along with carrots. This offers diverse health benefits. 

5. Kanji with Herbs

Adding fresh mint, coriander, or curry leaves after fermentation. This increases freshness while retaining the gut-healing properties. 

Who Should Drink Kanji?

Certain groups of people who can avail themselves of most Kanji benefits include:

1. Anyone with digestive problems

Because it has probiotics and fiber, Kanji can help with symptoms such as bloating, heartburn, constipation, IBS, and bowel problems.

2. Women with a hormonal imbalance

Regular consumption of kanji may benefit women with PCOS, thyroid issues, or irregular periods by supporting hormone health through its positive effects on gut health.

3. Individuals who catch fever and colds frequently

If you get frequent colds or infections or feel tired all the time, Kanji can help. It can make your immune system stronger and help you fight off illness.

4. Athletes, active individuals, and the elderly

Kanji acts as a natural sports drink, aiding the body in absorbing nutrients efficiently. This can be especially beneficial for older adults, as it supports quicker recovery, helps maintain energy levels, and is gentle on the digestive system.

5. People with skin or mood issues

Kanji's antioxidant effect promotes clearer skin. It makes you feel better and sleep more easily because of the gut-brain axis. 

Precautions

While Kanji benefits digestion and immunity, it's essential to consume it mindfully:

• If you have a sensitive stomach, start with a small amount of Kanji. The vigorous fermentation may initially cause discomfort. 
• Maintain hygiene during preparation to prevent illness and ensure the probiotic quality is maintained. 
• Avoid Kanji if your doctor has advised you to stay away from fermented foods.

Conclusion

Kanji isn't just a tasty winter drink. It's packed with natural probiotics that are good for your gut, help your immune system, and cleanse your body. Adding this age-old beverage to your daily diet is an easy way to enjoy the many benefits of Kanji and maintain a healthier gut. 

FAQs

1. What is kanji?

Kanji is a classic fermented drink. It's usually prepared with black carrots, beets, or mustard seeds. Since it's full of probiotics, it's great for your gut, boosts your immune system, and is just good for your overall health. Daily consumption can help maintain a healthy digestive system and general well-being.

2. How can kanji help with digestion?

Kanji has probiotics and lactic acid, which help balance your gut bacteria. This can reduce bloating and help your body absorb nutrients better, leading to easier digestion. Regular consumption of Kanji can also prevent common digestive issues like constipation or indigestion.

3. How does kanji improve immunity?

The antioxidants, vitamins, and probiotics in kanji help boost your immune system, fight off infections, and seasonal illnesses. 

4. Can I drink for weight management?

Yes. Kanji is low in calories and can help your metabolism. It also has probiotics that are good for your gut. These probiotics can help reduce cravings and make you feel full, which can assist you with maintaining a healthy weight.

5. Does kanji detoxify the body?

Yes. Kanji's fermentation process enhances lactic acid and antioxidants, which help remove toxins and support liver function for natural detoxification. Additionally, it strengthens your body's natural defenses through the probiotics, which stimulate gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) and promote overall health year-round. 

6. Can kanji improve skin health?

Yes. One of the key benefits of Kanji is that it helps detoxify your body and provides antioxidants, which can lower inflammation, help prevent acne, and give your skin a healthy look. Over time, you can achieve clearer, more radiant skin. 

7. How often should I drink kanji?

A small glass (100-150 ml) each day is sufficient. That's enough to support your stomach and boost your immune system. If you are trying this beverage for the first time, start slowly and see how you feel before increasing the quantity.