3 HEALTH-BOOSTING FOODS AS UNIQUE AS THEY ARE HEALTHY

September 04, 2017 by Renee Tavoularis

The pathway to healthy living is a lifelong journey. Naturally grown organic health-boosting foods help us to achieve this goal by providing us with hormone- and chemical-free sources of nutrition. One of the joys along the journey is discovering a variety of healthy and new plant-based foods that provide us with holistic wellness. 

One of the healthiest things we can do for our bodies is nourish ourselves with a variety of foods. Here we'll introduce three little known foods that you can use to add diversity to your health regimen.

MANGOSTEEN

While mangosteen is popular in Southeast Asia, it is relatively unknown in Western markets. It wasn't until recently that the USDA allowed the delicious fruit to be sold in America. About the size of a dark purple plum with a firm shell and a creamy lychee-like texture on the inside, the taste is a delicious citrus combination of a juicy peach and strawberry flavor.

Aside from its awesome flavor, mangosteen can help regulate blood pressure, improve digestion, and help you maintain a healthy weight. One study even found xanthones, a natural compound found in mangosteen, have potent anti-inflammatory effects. 

FENUGREEK

This plant has long been used in the Far East to lower blood sugar levels and reduce pain from menstrual cramps. It also aids in digestion, has anti-inflammatory effects, and even increase libido in men. What's more fenugreek seeds have been scientifically proven to help control type 2 diabetes. 

Available in the market in seed, powder or in whole leaf form. Fenugreek is commonly used in Indian food and is a go to spice to add a spicy kick to hearty stews and curries.

SPIRULINA

This exotic-sounding food is actually an edible microscopic algae that is dried and sold as a nutritional supplement. It was even used by NASA as a dietary supplement for astronauts. Interestingly, these microorganisms-turned-food are highly nutritious sources of protein. They fight cancer and inflammation in the body and have been called the "most nutrient dense food on the planet” marked by the high concentration of protein and vitamins found in spirulina.

It's not surprising to see why. Spirulina boasts a wide range of health benefits including cholesterol reduction, diabetes control and lowering blood pressure, cholesterol and the chances of heart attacks and strokes.

It is sold in powder and capsule form. It is emerald green-colored and has an earthy and salty taste. Be sure to buy from a trusted clean source as some brands may contain harmful impurities. You can use it to add a protein packed boost to desserts and smoothies.
Printer Friendly

1 Response