Nutrient Dense Foods

Chia Seeds Benefits

Chia seeds are a nutrient rich food providing potential health benefits through high levels of healthy fatty acids, minerals, polyphenols and also dietary fibre. Certain nutritional qualities mean that they are gaining popularity in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

Chia seeds are comparable in terms of nutrition to popular cereals such as corn, wheat and flax. It is mainly the healthy fatty acid content of chia seeds that sets them apart from other seeds or cereals. Because of their fatty acid and antioxidant content, chia seeds are thought to reduce inflammatory stress levels within the body.

Another key benefit to eating chia seeds is their high concentration of specific health promoting proteins. The nutrient density of chia seeds make them a potential nutraceutical and functional food that could be of interest to vegetarians. This is also why they are becoming really popular for consumers. Another benefit to chai seeds is that they are gluten free.

Recent studies suggest that health promoting effects of regularly eating chia seeds may include improved blood pressure control, blood lipid profiles and heart protective functions.

Goji Berry Benefits: Top Superfruit Contender

Berries, such as the goji berry, are very popular worldwide because of their nutritional value and potential health benefits. Goji berries are very sweet and colourful making them quite attractive to consumers. The goji berry bearing plant is native to Asia, with its first reported benefits being in traditional Chinese medicine. There are various clinical studies that have analysed the potential health benefits of goji berries and they are well researched.

They contain key vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which are important for disease prevention. Goji berries are an example of an exotic berry superfruit because they are thought to contain a lot more nutrients, or have a high nutrient density, compared to many other fruits or vegetables.

The general nutrient profile of the goji berry is strong, containing high levels of bioactive phenolic compounds, vitamin C, proteins, healthy fatty acids and sugars. Because of the abundance of some of these nutrients, the antioxidant capacity of the goji berry is therefore very strong.

Health Benefits Of Oregano And Oregano Oil

Oregano is a herb, that can be cold pressed into an oil, containing various plant phytochemicals that are thought to have health benefits in the body. There are several potent antioxidants in oregano that contribute to its potential health benefits. This herb produces lots of leaves that are rich in these bioactive compounds and these can be used to cook with.

Oregano is a really flexible herb to cook with. It is a great herb for people who are learning how to cook with herbs to start with as well. You can learn a lot about cooking flavors with oregano. It has an amazing scent to it and oregano can add extra complexity to most dishes.

Iodine Rich Foods: Our Top 6 Iodine Food Sources

Iodine rich foods are difficult to find and for those looking for the top food sources of iodine, we have put together a list here. Deficiencies in iodine rank among the highest in the world and this is no surprise.

Iodine is used in modern medical history to treat ailments and is also used as a broad-spectrum anti-septic. This mineral is also thought to directly contribute to healthier looking skin, helping to heal wounds and prevent sepsis. Topical iodine is rare in that it is effective against viruses, bacteria and fungi.

Iodine is a broad-spectrum and ancient antioxidant molecule that is actively stored within the body. This mineral is quite odd in that it is a powerful antioxidant as well as an antimicrobial, you don’t find many essential minerals like iodine. Ensuring that you eat enough iodine from your diet is essential to normal bodily functioning.

Diets deficient in iodine lead to symptoms such as cretinism, lack of growth, metabolic disorders and also thyroid cancer. Iodine is needed in adequate concentrations throughout one’s lifespan. In early life, iodine is needed for the optimal development of the brain. These deficiencies become apparent in early school life where iodine deficient children have markedly lower IQ.

Garlic Health Benefits

Garlic is a wonder flowering bulb with a massive range of potential health effects and benefits in the body. It is no wonder that garlic has been embraced by so many cultures. Garlic is so revered that garlic extract is also a really popular supplement, for a direct supply of fresh garlic in a high concentration.

Traditionally garlic has been used as a herbal remedy for infections, colds and diabetes. In ancient Greek, Chinese, Roman, Viking and Egyptian cultures garlic was used as a medicine. Garlic has also been used to treat wounds as a potent disinfectant. Garlic is grown worldwide, you can also grow it at home in your back yard.

The nutritional content of garlic has been heavily assessed by many nutritionists in modern times to determine how garlic confers its health properties within the body. As a food, garlic is so easy to include into your diet. Products exist such as garlic powder and garlic oil.