Yoga guru and Patanjali Ayurved co-founder Acharya Balkrishna has shared a simple nutrition tip for people who find dry fruits too costly. In a recent Facebook video, he said that soaked black gram and peanuts can offer many of the same benefits as almonds, walnuts and raisins, at a fraction of the price.
Dry fruits are not the only option
Balkrishna said Ayurveda has always placed nutrition and balance at the centre of good health. He noted that people often assume good nutrition requires expensive ingredients. This is not true, he said. Everyday foods, when used correctly, can support the body just as well.
He pointed out that many households cannot afford to eat dry fruits every day. For such families, he suggested a low-cost swap using ingredients already found in most Indian kitchens.
The suggested method
According to Balkrishna, the process is simple. Soak around 50 grams of black gram and 10 grams of peanuts overnight in water. In the morning, eat them slowly with breakfast, chewing each bite properly.
He stressed that chewing matters here. Proper chewing helps the body absorb nutrients better and eases the load on digestion.
Nutritional value of the combination
Balkrishna described this mix as a strong source of protein and fibre. He said it also carries other essential nutrients that support daily health. For people looking to build a balanced diet without spending heavily on imported or premium foods, he called this combination a practical choice.
Black gram, also known as urad dal, is widely used in Indian cooking and is known for its protein content. Peanuts are a common and affordable source of healthy fats and protein as well. Together, soaked overnight, Balkrishna said they form a wholesome addition to breakfast.
Digestion matters as much as diet
Balkrishna added a wider point about Ayurvedic thinking. He said that food alone does not guarantee good health. The body’s digestive fire, referred to in Ayurveda as agni, must also stay balanced. Without strong digestion, even the healthiest food fails to deliver its full benefit, he explained.
He urged people to focus on three things together. These are healthy digestion, a steady daily routine and a balanced diet. According to him, these three factors work as a unit. Ignoring one weakens the value of the other two.