Super-foods to feel super-good!

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It is quite a rare occurrence to get through the winter months without picking up any minor illnesses. There are so many viral infections, bugs, colds and flu like illnesses floating about that it is almost impossible not to fall foul of at least one.  I have had a delightful week trying to recover from a heavy cold that went into a stomach bug and then left me with a viral infection of the ears and throat.  Usually, I would try to battle through all symptoms, taking no time to stop and make myself feel better but this time I am looking at life from another angle....The kindness angle!

I took time off, I allowed myself to wallow in my jammies.  I let others look after me, feed me and water me. I cancelled appointments, rearranged work and actually enjoyed some time to just be inactive for a little while.  I am pleased to report that I am on the mend and feeling more human again.  Being poorly made me examine my diet a little more closely.  I eat fairly healthily and exercise a little but probably not as much as I could.  I have been looking into foods that boost the immune system and have a feel good factor built in so as it is Tuesday Tips day, I am sharing my list of goodies with you.

BLUEBERRIES The ultimate immune-boosting food. Rich in anti-oxidants.

BROCCOLI Guards against cancer and is rich in a wide range of anti-oxidants, vitamins C and E, foliate and iron.

CARROTS High in carotene, known to boost the immune system.

LETTUCE AND SALAD GREENS Tangy varieties, such as chicory and endive, stimulate the liver, making them great detoxifiers. Most lettuces contain valuable amounts of vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants.

BEETROOT Bursting with minerals and has anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, immune-boosting and detoxifying properties.

BRAZIL NUTS You only need to eat two or three a day to benefit from their great combination of immune-boosting nutrients: vitamin E, selenium and B vitamins.

GRAPEFRUIT Has immune-boosting, antiseptic, wound-healing and anti-bacterial properties.

GARLIC Strengthens the heart and blood, and has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. Also thought to help lower blood pressure. A key ingredient is allicin, which has cancer-fighting potential.

CRANBERRIES Best known for helping to prevent and treat urinary tract infections, especially cystitis, in women. They have both anti-fungal and antiviral properties.

GINGER Stimulates the immune system and circulation

I am a great believer that chocolate has a feel good boost when eaten in small portions.  Dark chocolate also contains anti-oxidants.  Its eating the small portion that I am currently working on!!! However, if I combine it with the super foods above surely I will be getting a healthy hit. Chocolate covered cranberries, blueberries, ginger and Brazil nuts can be bought easily but I wonder if there is a market for chocolate covered beetroot or lettuce......?? Maybe not!

Love and Blessings,

Jean Fisher-Taylor