Recently someone asked me ‘What if I skip all carbs and eat only kutta ka atta, will that help in weight loss?‘ Before I answer this question lets dig a little deeper into the famous buckwheat ( kuttu). Many think kuttu ka atta and atta( gehun/whole wheat flour/ atta) are related. The fact however is that the similarity in the names does not account for the difference in nutrients. Buckwheat is one of the most nutritious foods in the world. Here are a few facts you are unaware of about buckwheat.

• It is extremely high in protein and is a wonderful substitute for those who are allergic to gluten (found in wheat).
• It contains a phytonutrient called rutin, which is known to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
• Kuttu is good for the heart and is rich in magnesium, which is responsible for maintaining a healthy heart.
• It is a super source of fibre.
• Buckwheat is rich in vitamin B, iron,calcium and phosphorus.
• Kuttu is 75% of complex carbohydrates and 25% of high quality protein which  makes it an ideal food for weight loss.

Buckwheat is a part of many weight loss diets in the West. The fact that it has high nutritional value makes it an ideal food for dieters. In India however, a lot of ghee and oil is used in making kuttu preparations like poories and pakodas which makes it a high fat food. This is the reason many tend to put on weight during the navratras instead of losing it. There is not much difference in the calories of the either. 100gm of each, kuttu atta and wheat atta contain around 330 calories. The difference is in terms of the higher amount of protein you get along with a double dose of vitamins. The protein makes you feel full for longer and keeps those hunger pangs at bay. It is best eaten in grain form like porridge or if added to your regular wheat atta.So to answer the question yes, kuttu is great to lose weight, but keep a check on how you are eating it.