“Food is Medicine” is a term that was originally conceived by Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine; it was his belief that eating wholesome ‘superfoods’ is the basis for good health.
Superfoods are whole foods in their most natural and rawest form and are typically considered to be extremely nutritious and beneficial to our overall health and wellbeing.
We have spent time exploring the superfoods that you can incorporate into your diet, helping keep your body fit and healthy.
Here is a shortlist of some of our favourite and most versatile superfoods:
1. Dark green leafy vegetables
An excellent source of nutrients including folate, zinc, calcium, iron, magnesium, vitamin C and fibre. All of the micronutrients needed to help fight infection include vitamins A, B, C, D and E, and the minerals iron, selenium and zinc. So, you’re off to a good start with a healthy serving of dark green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach or swiss chard.
2. Berries
Berries are a nutritional powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants! Enjoy them in a smoothie, with cereal or muesli or on their own. Some delicious options are raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and cranberries.
3. Kefir and Yoghurt
Kefir and yoghurt are both fermented products usually made from milk and contain protein, calcium, B vitamins, potassium and probiotics. Probiotics can add back the good bacteria in your gut.
4. Green Tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants and polyphenolic compounds which can have strong anti-inflammatory effects. There’s never been a better time to brew a pot of tea, light some candles and read a book!
5. Garlic
Garlic is a full of flavour and boosts any dish you put it in, it is also a great source of manganese, vitamin c, vitamin B6, selenium and fibre. Vitamin B6 is especially important in contributing to the body’s first response once it has recognised a pathogen entering the body.
6. Eggs
Whole eggs are rich in nutrients such as B vitamins, choline, selenium, vitamin A, iron and phosphorus. Vitamin A is vital in maintaining the structure of cells in the skin, respiratory tract and gut. If you are vegan don’t worry, you can also find vitamin A in tofu, legumes and nuts.
Hot tip! Most WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfood stores stock eggs from local farmers!
7. Mushrooms
Nutrient content varies depending on the type of mushroom, however the benefits of mushrooms are huge. They are full of micronutrients including B vitamins, iron, selenium and vitamin D. Cooking mushrooms increases availability of the nutrients so eat them fried, roasted or in a soup.
8. Seaweed
Seaweed is not only a delicious snack it also packs multiple nutrients including vitamin K, folate, iodine and fibre. Iodine helps support your thyroid gland and the vitamins help protect your cells from damage.
9. Sweet Potato
Packed with nutrients, sweet potatoes are one of the most versatile and healthy vegetables available. Full of potassium, fibre and vitamins A & C, they’re also a good source of carotenoids, a type of antioxidant that is known to help build your body’s immunity against diseases.
Stay tuned for a delicious superfood packed soup recipe from us that will be your saviour this Winter!
Check out our Sunshine Soup reciepe jammed packed with superfood
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