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At this time of the year I consider myself very lucky to be living in a county which provides such an array of fresh foods right on our door step. A recent survey carried out by BMRB for Cancer Research UK, 2007, claims that two-thirds of the UK population are failing to eat the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables per day, despite the fact that a diet rich in these essential foods is linked to a lowered risk of heart disease, certain cancers and other common ailments.
As I write this we are in the middle of the asparagus season. ‘Superfoods’ such as asparagus and broccoli are at their nutritional peak, when fresh. But what are the benefits of these foods and how can they help us? Asparagus is a great source of folic acid, vitamins A, B and C and is high in fibre, making it fantastic for intestinal health as well as helping to maintain the health of blood vessels. It is also high in potassium and low in sodium. Broccoli belongs to the cruciferous family and is rich in antioxidants. It contains phytochemicals such as sulforaphane which research shows can help to reduce the risks of certain cancers.
Artichoke is a fantastic detoxifier, as are spring greens which both help to stimulate and support the liver and kidneys, improving the removal of toxins from the body.
As well as containing potassium, manganese, zinc and various vitamins, lettuce has both sedative and analgesic properties due to the presence of lactucarium.
There is a natural timetable to the growing of foods. Much of this has been eliminated by the use of modern methods such as food additives, preservatives, freezing, canning and packaging. Furthermore, the use of gases can accelerate or delay the ripening of foods. This allows out of season foods from all corners of the earth to be shipped in, with a subsequent loss of nutrient status. In general food that is local and in season is superior both nutritionally and in taste.
Less conventional foods, but readily available, are dandelions and nettles. While often seen as a seasonal nuisance these can be a beneficial and interesting addition to summer diets. Dandelion works as a natural diuretic, is a mild laxative and is frequently used for its detoxifying properties. Nettles have a high content of flavanoids and potassium and an astringent action. The young leaves from both can be used in salads and for cooking.
The fibre content of many fruits and vegetables is often neglected, but is an important part of these foods. Fibre acts as an essential compound to the body, and while it offers almost no nutritional value, it plays an essential role in the maintenance of good health. While it may have fallen out of fashion, the potato is a fantastic source of fibre, is virtually fat free and is an excellent source of vitamin C, the B complex vitamins and potassium. Local new potatoes, skins on. Hmmm, delicious!
As I write this we are in the middle of the asparagus season. ‘Superfoods’ such as asparagus and broccoli are at their nutritional peak, when fresh. But what are the benefits of these foods and how can they help us? Asparagus is a great source of folic acid, vitamins A, B and C and is high in fibre, making it fantastic for intestinal health as well as helping to maintain the health of blood vessels. It is also high in potassium and low in sodium. Broccoli belongs to the cruciferous family and is rich in antioxidants. It contains phytochemicals such as sulforaphane which research shows can help to reduce the risks of certain cancers.
Artichoke is a fantastic detoxifier, as are spring greens which both help to stimulate and support the liver and kidneys, improving the removal of toxins from the body.
As well as containing potassium, manganese, zinc and various vitamins, lettuce has both sedative and analgesic properties due to the presence of lactucarium.
There is a natural timetable to the growing of foods. Much of this has been eliminated by the use of modern methods such as food additives, preservatives, freezing, canning and packaging. Furthermore, the use of gases can accelerate or delay the ripening of foods. This allows out of season foods from all corners of the earth to be shipped in, with a subsequent loss of nutrient status. In general food that is local and in season is superior both nutritionally and in taste.
Less conventional foods, but readily available, are dandelions and nettles. While often seen as a seasonal nuisance these can be a beneficial and interesting addition to summer diets. Dandelion works as a natural diuretic, is a mild laxative and is frequently used for its detoxifying properties. Nettles have a high content of flavanoids and potassium and an astringent action. The young leaves from both can be used in salads and for cooking.
The fibre content of many fruits and vegetables is often neglected, but is an important part of these foods. Fibre acts as an essential compound to the body, and while it offers almost no nutritional value, it plays an essential role in the maintenance of good health. While it may have fallen out of fashion, the potato is a fantastic source of fibre, is virtually fat free and is an excellent source of vitamin C, the B complex vitamins and potassium. Local new potatoes, skins on. Hmmm, delicious!
Nutritional Therapy Norwich ~ Nutritional Therapy Norfolk ~ Nutritional Therapist Norwich ~ Nutritional Therapist Norfolk ~ Nutritional Health Norwich ~ Nutritional Health Norfolk ~ N4 Nutrition