Are you tired of eating the same foods every day? Are you looking for some ideas to spice up your diet or add a nutrition punch? Add a few new foods to your plate to mix things up.
Beverages with Benefits
Water is great as the ultimate source for staying hydrated. However, there are other ways to get fluids and some provide nutritional benefits.
- Herbal Teas: Herbal teas are made from a combination of dried flowers, spices, fruits, and herbs. Although more research is needed, teas such as ginger, peppermint, and hibiscus have strong antioxidant properties that can produce health benefits. Ginger tea has been recommended to improve nausea. Peppermint tea is linked to improved digestion. Hibiscus tea may help with blood pressure. Make it your mission to try a variety of teas!
- Kombucha: Kombucha is a fermented drink made with bacteria, yeast, tea, and sugar. As the drink ferments, it produces probiotics and antioxidants. Some improvements in gut health have been shown with drinking kombucha, but more research is needed. Watch the sugar content as it can add up quickly.
Benefits of Seeds
Nuts and seeds can provide extra nutrition to your diet as well as a flavor boost. Find creative ways to add them into your diet and reap their benefits.
- Chia Seeds: These seeds have been around for many years. Although they are a grain, they provide soluble fiber and minerals such as calcium, manganese, and iron. They are a great source of Omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Chia seeds absorb water and swell to form a jelly-like consistency. They can be added to a variety of foods like shakes, oatmeal, and pudding.
- Flax Seeds: This seed has a mild, nutty flavor. Its role is to add texture to your meals as well as Omega 3s, antioxidants, and fiber. Some studies show flax seeds improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Try adding them to smoothies, salads, or yogurt.
Spice Things up
Adding spices to your meals can not only season things up, but provide nutritional benefits as well. The benefits of spices have been recognized for years.
- Turmeric: This antioxidant-packed spice is great to season chicken or any dish. It has been shown to reduce inflammation and the risk of developing cancer.
- Ginger: Ginger is known for its antioxidants and improving gut health. Try some ginger tea or use this spice when cooking.
Anti-Aging
The focus on youth and maintaining health continues to be a focus for many. Your health is directly connected to what you eat, so good nutrition definitely plays a role in healthy aging. Specific products have been marketed to achieve “anti-aging” as well.
- Collagen: Hydrolyzed collagen supplements have been heavily marketed to improve skin, bone, and joint health. Collagen production declines with age and is often supplemented. There are mixed studies on these products and more research is needed.
As new food finds and discoveries happen each day, it’s important to evaluate each product and review them with a healthcare professional if ayou have any questions.
