10 October 2020

Using ancient superfoods to help keep you healthy

Preserving and fermenting food has been in practice throughout cultures for many years. Recent studies also prove that Fermented foods, aka foods containing microorganisms like bacteria and yeast, are the number one superfood trend for 2020. 

You can implement these fermented foods into every meal; this will help you manage a healthy gut and a better immune system. 

Kimchi 

Fermented cabbage or daikon eaten with most meals in Korea, it is moderately spicy, and due to its fermentation, it consists of a slightly tangy taste. The fermentation process means Kimchi is also a great source of your daily probiotic, also boasting with an abundance of vitamins A and C, and at least 10 different minerals, over 34 amino acids. Kimchi is a fantastic option for those consuming a plant-based diet. Note: (watch out for the labels, some brands use fish sauce)

Kombucha

A refreshing and slightly sparkling fermented tea, Kombucha is an excellent source of probiotic that kills microbes and help fights a range of illness caused by unhealthy bacteria. It is well known for containing a vast amount of good bacteria. Originated from East Asia the often homemade tea is also popular in neighbouring countries like Russia. You will be able to spot these in health food shops, farmers markets and even some local supermarkets.

Kefir

The unsung hero for gut health, Kefir contains three times the amount of probiotics as yoghurt. The milk used to make Kefir is fermented with a combination of 10 to 20 different types of probiotic bacteria and yeast. A higher probiotic count results in a lot more benefits for your digestive and immune systems. Tip: add blended flaxseeds to your Kefir for a boost of fibre whilst improve your gut and immune system.

Turmeric

We can’t get enough of this humble spice that offers a plethora of benefits. Turmeric may be the most effective nutritional supplement in existence according to many recent studies. This golden miracle power can be added to your daily diet or even used directly on to the skin. 

Here are some ways you can incorporate turmeric into your routines:

  • Turmeric Nut/Oat milk known as a “healing spice”, used to overcome anything from sore throats, colds, the flu, and stomachaches (due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties)
  • Turmeric into your cooking, add a spoon full or two of turmeric to any curry, rice dishes, soups and sauces. This wonderful light tasting power will add a beautiful golden colour to your food, along with its great health benefits. 
  • Turmeric facemasks, add turmeric, yoghurt, organic apple cider vinegar and honey. This mask will brighten up your skin and help with blemishes. 
  • Make Jamu juice, traditionally used in Indonesia as a herbal beverage to maintain good health and alignment for the body. Turmeric is one of the main ingredients used in Jamu juice, the golden orange colour of turmeric makes this juice much pleasing to the eye as well as arrays of health benefits such as anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. You can find our Jamu recipe here https://bit.ly/Jamure

Cacao 

Firstly, let’s identify the difference between Cacao and Cocoa. Cacao is the bean of a plant in which can be made into cocoa also known as chocolate. So, while cacao refers to the plant itself and the products made from non-roasted seeds, cocoa products are made from roasting its seeds. Cacao is vegan, 40 times the antioxidants of Blueberries, a natural mood enhancer and anti-depressant. It contains the highest plant-based source of iron known to man, at a whopping 7.3mg per 100g. For those who are looking for non-dairy calcium, cacao also contains 20% more than the equivalent amount of milk. 

Sweet and savoury ways to use cacao

  • Add it to your smoothie for a rich guilt-free chocolate treat high in minerals and antioxidants. To maximum benefits, combine it with some vitamin C. Think oranges and kiwifruit. 
  • Add cacao to your chilli dips, if you are not keen on food being spicy use roasted bell peppers instead of hot chillies. The combination of the ingredients will boost your metabolism and improves lung health. Use with your breakfast eggs, snack dip or even used as a marinade for proteins such as tofu.

For more nutritional advice, get in touch with one of our experts and start your health journey today. Find out more 

The REVĪVŌ Detox & Organic Weight Loss Program brings medical science and holistic therapies together. Nutritional and herbal support helps to reduce side effects and optimise the detoxification process. Combining various therapies, nutritional supplements and healthy cuisine with optional holistic fitness classes, this program is an integrated approach to experiencing ‘lightness of being’. This retreat can be specifically tailored for men.