Food with a function.

Food with a function.

All foods have one or the other function, from relieving hunger to tasting the taste buds, but the concept of "functional foods" is becoming increasingly popular. The food in question has a specific purpose: to provide additional health benefits that go beyond basic products. The concept was first introduced by the Japanese in the 1980s, but it took a while for global momentum to be reached. So what is it about functional foods exactly? We will see.

fruit and vegetables

It goes without saying that a daily serving of fresh fruits and vegetables offers benefits that go beyond the ordinary. These are the richest sources of most vitamins and minerals that support the metabolism and ensure the optimal functioning of the body. They also contain phytonutrients that have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects and are high in fiber, making them ideal for gut health. Give citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, berries, carrots, sweet potatoes, apples, various pumpkins and squashes, onions, garlic, peppers and tomatoes.

Whole grains

Go from refined grain to whole grains for many benefits. These complex carbohydrates regulate blood sugar levels, control appetite, improve digestive health through fiber, eliminate toxins from the gut, and lower cholesterol levels in the body. They also improve mental health and well-being. Eat wholegrain bread, oats, brown or red rice, amaranth, buckwheat, bulgur, millet, barley, quinoa and wheat germ.

High protein foods

There is a reason why protein is the keyword in today's diet and medicine. By increasing the number of lifestyle-related diseases, proteins can help keep them at bay. It regulates blood sugar and prevents the onset of type 2 diabetes by maintaining insulin balance. Protein helps to balance certain hormones in the body and contributes to the function of the thyroid gland. It also promotes healthy muscles, bones, cartilage and connective tissue. Eat a mix of animal and vegetable proteins: eggs, seafood, lean meat, milk, cheese, yogurt, tofu, nuts, seeds, lentils and legumes.

Healthy fat

We often ignore fats, but they are also essential to the functioning of the body. They contribute to healthy joints, strengthen the immune system, improve cell health, isolate organs from disease and damage, etc. Of course, you need to make sure you eat the right fats. Oily fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel contain essential omega-3 fatty acids. Vegetarians can get their dose of healthy fats from flaxseed, nuts, almonds, avocados, coconut oil, soybeans etc.