3 Scientific Health Benefits of Shawarma You Did Not Know

Shawarma is a Levantine Arab meat dish. It was invented in Turkey in the 18th century where slices of seasoned lamb, chicken, beef and mixed meat were stacked on a vertical spit. It was then turned and roasted on all sides. Shavings were later cut off to be served with tabbouleh, Fattoush, tomatoes and cucumbers. Today shawarma is a common meal found in most Lebanese or Middle Eastern eateries. It is rich in protein, fiber and carbohydrates and serves as an excellent weight management meal. The Middle Eastern food and grocery market had total revenue of $189.8 billion in 2020 with a CAGR of 6.9% between 2016 and 2020. 

Shawarma is one of the famous street dishes from this cuisine and the most tagged food on Instagram from the Middle East. Lamb is the more traditional specialty in the American states. Thinly sliced lamb made with signature spices and cooked slowly on a stand-up rotisserie is quite common. It became all the more popular in North America in May 2012 when the ending scene of The Avengers movie showed the Avengers eating shawarma in New York. Shawarma is a lot more than a simple blend of spices that mix with a smoky and meaty flavor. It comes with tons of benefits too. Here’s a look. 

1. Increases Energy Level 

Carbohydrates are a key component of shawarmas. This nutrient is the main source of fuel for your body that can give a boost to your energy level by breaking down. It supports multiple body functions like respiration, heartbeat, circulation, digestion, food metabolization and excretion. Studies have found that 7% of your total energy supply keeps the body warm and healthy. The cells also need constant energy for the chemical reactions to occur efficiently. Carbohydrate is mainly derived from pita bread which is a whole-grain food. It can also maintain a well-functioning digestive system. 

2. Keeps Heart Healthy

Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are excellent for your heart. Shawarma promises a healthy composition of ‘good fat’ and oils. These protect cardiovascular health by improving blood cholesterol levels. The risks of an attack or a stroke are reduced to a great extent. Heart-healthy diets can provide up to 35% of their calories from fat as long as the fats are mostly mono and polyunsaturated. So, it is a good idea to include shawarma as a part of your regular meal plan from a reputed Mediterranean restaurant. 

3. Boosts Low Immunity 

Shawarma provides a good source of protein from pita bread. This helps to improve the immune system in the human body and speeds up the healing process. It is especially crucial amid the ongoing global health crisis. You can fight off pathogens, battle foreign bodies and prevent infections and diseases more effectively. Shawarma can be one of the most natural ways to keep your immunity in good shape since it has an excellent nutritional value. Proteins also promote overall body health by increasing muscle mass and strength, improving bone health, reducing unnecessary cravings and lowering blood pressure. 

Shawarma is packed in dietary fiber, vitamin B6, healthy salt and zinc. But overeating may cause food poisoning and unhealthy weight gain. Diabetics must avoid shawarma to prevent coronary artery diseases. Consult your healthcare expert if you are planning to add it to your daily diet plan.