When it comes to enjoying food, we all have preferences, likes and dislikes.
But perhaps we shouldn’t just enjoy some foods for their taste. There is a wealth of food out there for us to enjoy not only for their taste but for their nutritional goodness.
Acai berries
These small berries pack a real punch! Rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9, which are “good” fats (and important to keep us healthy), acai berries are also high in anti-oxidants – so great for a healthy and active brain – and fibre – which is important for a healthy gut.
Try this: Although sometimes expensive, acai berry juice is widely available. Why not add a glass of the juice to your breakfast ritual?
Carrots
These orange vegetables are bursting with goodness! Carrots contain carotene which the body turns into Vitamin A. This vitamin is incredibly important for our eyesight as without it we could experience night blindness. Although carrots won’t help you see in the dark, they will provide an important vitamin which our delicate organ – the eye – needs.
Try this: If carrots aren’t your thing, try sweet potato, persimmon or squash for an alternative source of carotene. Mash sweet potato and squash together once cooked for a sweet yet savoury treat.
Greens
Kale is a great source of both lutein and zeaxanthin. Lutein protects our eye cells by stopping damaging free radicals entering the eye through UV light, whilst zeaxanthin helps reduce your chances of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration of the eyes. Not only is kale good for eyesight; in fact it provides a great source of vitamin K which helps your blood clot if you have an injury or a cut and is a great way to get necessary vitamin C for protecting our cells and maintaining healthy tissue.
Try this: For a healthy addition to any Asian dish, add a generous handful of kale five minutes before the end of cooking and serve immediately.
