Discover seven wholesome foods that not only nourish the gut microbiome but can be easily incorporated into meals the next time you are entertaining

These tasty chicken balls are the perfect finger food to serve at parties. Chicken is a great source of protein to supply amino acids, vital for growth and repair, and the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin. Chicken also supplies immune-boosting zinc and iron. Ginger and garlic are both excellent immune-boosting foods that help the body fight off infections.

These gluten-free crackers make an ideal snack with dips and cheeses. Flaxseeds are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of plant-derived omega-3 fatty acid beneficial for cardiovascular health and helping reduce cholesterol and blood triglyceride levels. Flaxseeds are the richest plant source of lignans, which have powerful antioxidant properties that help fight free-radical damage. Foods rich in lignans have been found to lower the risk of heart disease.

Cauliflower, like other brassica vegetables, contains a group of phytochemicals called glucosinolates. These important compounds have been found to have anti-cancerous properties as they help reduce inflammation and detoxify carcinogenic compounds before they can cause damage to cells in the body.

This flavoursome dish is loaded with lycopene, a phytochemical that gives tomatoes their bright red colour and many important health benefits. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that has anti-cancerous properties. It has also been found to help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of heart disease. Tomatoes are also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids that help protect the eyes from blue light from computers, phones and TVs, and can lower the risk of age- related eye conditions such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

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This healthy fried rice goes perfectly as a side dish served with salmon, chicken or tofu. Pineapple is a fabulous source of vitamin C, which is essential for a strong-functioning immune system, healthy skin and is needed for iron absorption. Pineapple is also loaded with phytochemicals called flavonoids, which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect against cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancers.

This refreshing iced tea is packed with protective antioxidants. Antioxidants are a vital part of our body’s defence system against cell- damaging free radicals that increase our risk of disease. Including a variety of antioxidant-rich foods and herbs in the diet such as pineapple and ginger is an excellent way to optimize our health and longevity

These delightful moist fruity muffins make a wholesome breakfast option or nourishing afternoon snack. Leave the skin on your pears for extra fibre and nutritional goodness.

Salmon is one of the best sources of beneficial omega-3 essential fatty acids. These healthy fats are vital for brain function, memory, and they also support a healthy immune system. Omega-3s are very nourishing for the skin and joints and have a potent anti-inflammatory action.

Black beans are beneficial for supporting cardiovascular health. Black beans contain vitamin B, iron, unsaturated fats and soluble fibre which are important for promoting heart health and keeping cholesterol levels in check.

Tofu will provide you with a good dose of non-haem iron. This important mineral is needed for strengthening the immune system. We need good levels of iron to produce white blood cells and antibodies to protect us from viruses and bacteria and other illness-causing microbes. People with low iron levels often have weakened immune function and are more vulnerable to catching colds and flu and other infections.

One of the most common symptoms of low iron levels is tiredness and fatigue. Adding vitamin C-rich fruits to this breakfast increases the absorption of iron from these foods.