Lisa Guy

Chickpeas are naturally rich in galacto-oligosaccharides. This is a type of soluble prebiotic fibre that is fermented in the large intestine to produce short-chain fatty acids, namely butyrate, which play an important role in protecting our gut health.

Tiger nuts, also known as earth almonds, aren’t actually nuts. They’re tubers that have a chewy almond-like taste. Tiger nuts are a good source of protein and beneficial fats along with resistant starch fibre that acts as a prebiotic. Including tiger nuts with meals can help improve satiety and reduce blood-sugar level spikes.

This lovely, fresh salad provides plenty of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body, required for good eye health and vision. You will also get a good dose of vitamin C from this dish, which is important for collagen production and for maintaining healthy skin and a strong-functioning immune system. Quinoa is a highly nutritious seed that is rich in protein and dietary fibre to help keep you regular and promote healthy blood-sugar levels.

Olives are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, namely oleic acid, together with vitamin E and antioxidants that have an anti-inflammatory action to help support cardiovascular health.

Pistachios are a great source of prebiotic fibres that feed our beneficial gut bacteria so they grow and thrive. Dark chocolate is considered a mood-boosting food. Cacao contains phenylethylamine, the same chemical that’s created in the brain when you’re in love. It has a natural anti-depressant effect and can help lift your mood.

Including cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower in your daily diet can help reduce your risk of developing cancer. Cruciferous vegetables contain a compound called sulforaphane that has been found to boost the liver’s ability to detoxify carcinogenic and other toxic substances.

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

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.

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.

This vibrant green dish made with Asian greens from the brassica family will give you a good dose of vitamin A and carotenoids!

Incorporating these 7 nourishing foods into your daily diet is an excellent way to boost your health and wellbeing.

Chia puddings make a healthy treat for lunchboxes. Chia seeds are loaded with beneficial omega-3 fats to boost your kids’ brain function, and dietary fibre to help keep them regular.