Food is such an integral part of each day. Not only does it fuel us physically, but also it is the center of most social events. No matter where people are from or what they do or whether they are tall or short, they eat food. Food connects us all fundamentally. Although every human understands food is necessary to function, not everyone understands the science behind the food you eat. Here are some interesting facts about food that you may not have known but will help you immensely!
1. Eat iron-rich foods in combination with vitamin C.
You should eat iron-rich foods (especially plant-based ones) with vitamin C since vitamin C increases the bioavailability of iron. What does this mean? This means that vitamin C enables your body to better absorb a larger percentage of the iron found in the food you consume. Next time you make a spinach salad, add a squeeze of lemon or a freshly cut orange to put this trick into practice. Or eat an orange along with an iron-enriched cereal for breakfast tomorrow!
2. Avocado is one of only two major sources of oleic fatty acid(a healthy fat!).
Avocado toast isn't just great for a drool-worthy, aesthetic Instagram photo! It's also an excellent way to consume monounsaturated fat (omega-9), a healthy fat that will keep you fuller for longer and is also an integral part of cell membrane structure. It is one of the most effective food source that helps in increasing HDL, the “good” cholesterol and lowering LDL, the bad cholesterol.
3.Eat flax as meal, not seeds.
If you want to absorb the healthy omega-3 fats in flax seeds, grind them up (or purchase them pre-ground) as flax meal. This is because the ground form is easier to digest. Whole flaxseed may pass through your intestine undigested, which means you won't get all the benefits. Omega-3 fats are essential, meaning that they must be obtained from the diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory research suggests that these may help prevent different types of cancer cells from growing..
4. Eat vitamin B12 in fermented foods.
Vitamin B12 is most commonly found in animal food sources, which poses a problem for those that choose to follow a plant based food source diet. However, certain fermented foods are a wonderful vegan and vegetarian-friendly source for B12 according to research. Vitamin B12 gives us energy as well as participates in DNA synthesis, cell replication and nerve fiber protection. You can easily obtain vitamin B12 from animal food sources, but you can just as easily obtain it from kombucha, sauerkraut, tofu, kimchi, or miso.
5. Cinnamon stabilizes and regulates blood sugar levels
According to NIH research Cinnamon stabilizes blood sugar, meaning that it prevents you from "crashing" after a sugar rush by preventing insulin spikes. Compared to other foods like green tea, walnut, and mint that also reduce glucose levels in blood, cinnamon is the the most bioactive. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to your oatmeal or smoothie to not only enhance the taste, but to give your body that extra help it needs to control your blood sugar.
6. Papayas and pineapples possess powerful enzymes for digestion.
Not only are papayas and pineapples rich in nutrients and healthy antioxidants, they both contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help break down proteins and improve overall digestion. They contain bromelain, which is a group of digestive enzymes called proteases. The proteases break down protein molecules into their building blocks, such as amino acids and small peptides which are then more easily absorbed across the small intestine. Eat some of these fruits with your meal to feel light and avoid tummy discomfort!
Hopefully these interesting food facts inspire you to make a few small tweaks or additions to your diet to boost the health benefits of your next meal.
