Healthy Eating - What products should be on your weekly shopping list.18/02/2025It’s never too late to start eating more healthily, whether you’re incorporating more fresh fruit and veg into your diet or adding delicious nutrient packed wholefoods to your shopping basket. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring, and it is easy to add flavourful ingredients to your cooking while avoiding heavily processed rubbish. Here are our picks for the best healthy products you should add to your shopping list. Buckwheat Buckwheat is a phenomenal superfood, loaded with antioxidants, fibre and protein it is a must have for any healthy pantry. Despite the name, buckwheat is not actually a grain nor is it related to wheat but rather a seed of a plant similar to rhubarb and sorrel. Much like quinoa, buckwheat is a complete protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids, that can be incredibly hard to find outside of animal based proteins. Alongside its incredible protein content, buckwheat is also rich in manganese, copper and phosphorus, all of which are vital in maintaining healthy bones. Not only is buckwheat so nutritionally well rounded, but it is also an incredibly easy to prepare ingredient, and a great rice or even porridge alternative. Lentils Lentils are a perfect addition to any healthy diet, particularly if you are looking to increase your protein and iron intake while remaining plant based. Low in carbohydrates and saturated fats, lentils really have no downside, their high phosphorus, calcium and B vitamin content really elevate them to an incredibly well rounded protein. Lentils are also incredibly versatile, helping to bulk out sauces and curries in place of animal proteins, while also being a staple ingredient in its own right, particularly in Indian and Mediterranean cuisines. Black Beans Black beans have an incredible amount of antioxidants that alone justify their place on your shopping list, however they also contain a great deal of protein and fibre to really help them stand out as an excellent wholefood. The main source of antioxidants in black beans are the anthocyanins that give them their signature black colour (also found in blueberries, blackcurrents and red grapes). Alongside their terrific antioxidant contents, black beans also have a very low glycaemic index, which means that once eaten their energy is very slowly released to keep you fuelled for longer and minimise the need for snacking in between meals. Almonds Almonds are incredibly popular all over the world, primarily for their distinctive sweet “marzipan” flavour, however they are also one of the healthiest nuts you can buy. Packed full of healthy essential fatty acids, almonds are a great way to reduce your low density lipoproteins (also known as bad cholesterol) while also significantly reducing appetite. Almonds also contain riboflavin and L-carnitine, two nutrients that are vital for brain health. If their health benefits weren’t enough, the sheer number of uses for almonds should be. From snacking straight from the bag to baking to milk alternatives, there isn’t much that almonds can't do. Avocados Avocados are a truly brilliant fruit, not only are they a delicious (and trendy) breakfast, they are also remarkably healthy. Avocados themselves contain numerous antioxidants, however the fatty acids they contain also aid in the absorption of fat soluble nutrients from other foods. Avocados also contain lutein, a much needed antioxidant used to support your eyesight, as well as omega 9 fatty acids that have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart attacks and even dementia! Alongside all of these subtle benefits, avocado is also incredibly easy to cook with, and is often a perfect accompaniment to a main meal, or as a healthy snack in its own right. Kimchi Kimchi is a korean food consisting of fermented cabbage, salt and chilli flakes (sometimes with fish sauce, although this varies), and it really is one of the healthiest fermented foods you can eat. Possibly best known for its benefits towards gut health, kimchi is a great source of probiotics and fibre. As well as its incredible probiotic content, kimchi is also a great source of vitamins A,B,C and K, as well as phosphorus, calcium and iron. However, like most fermented foods, kimchi can be quite high in salt, so it is important to balance your consumption of it carefully. Dates Dates are a delicious healthy fruit that is a great alternative to a sickly sweet dessert. Dates are obviously packed full of fibre and great for digestion, however they also have a great abundance of vitamins and minerals. Rich in potassium, magnesium and copper, dates have been shown to significantly aid both gut and heart health. While dates might be best known as an ingredient in or alternative to desserts, they are also an incredibly useful ingredient for counteracting acidic foods, making them a perfect accompaniment to a salad or cheese board. Oat Milk Possibly the most popular dairy milk alternative, oat milk is an excellent vegan option, in both drinks and cooking. Not only is oat milk suitable for vegans however, it also comes with a litany of health benefits that makes it a worthy replacement of cow's milk. Vitamin B can be quite hard to obtain on a vegan or plant based diet, but luckily oat milk contains vitamin B2 and B12, which is vital for our red blood cells. As oat milk is obviously made from oats, it also has a great deal more fibre than traditional dairy milk, while also having absolutely zero cholesterol. Tofu Tofu (or soya bean curd) is a pantry must have, made from condensed soy milk, tofu is an exceptional source of protein. Much like buckwheat and quinoa, tofu is a plant based complete protein, and is possibly the closest (nutritionally) that one can get to animal based proteins. However not only is tofu nutrient and protein dense, it is also an incredibly versatile protein. On its own tofu is essentially flavourless, which may sound like a disadvantage but in reality this allows tofu to take on the taste of whatever it is marinated in, making it a perfect meat substitute for almost any dish. Whilst a block of tofu can be a little overwhelming to those who haven’t cooked with it before, it is actually deceptively easy. For the best results I recommend making sure the tofu is sufficiently drained, and leaving it to stand for a significant amount of time before seasoning and cooking however you’d like. These products are a perfect starting point for supercharging your diet with nutrients. However there are thousands of delicious wholefoods that will leave you feeling healthier and make your cooking taste even better, all without breaking the bank.
Macadamia nuts - Your ultimate healthy snack30/08/2024‘Macadamia’ is a type of tree relating to the flowering plant ‘Protea’ and a type of fossilised pollen. The Proteaceae family (Banksia, Grevillia, Persoonia, and Macadamia) was originally distributed in the Southern Hemisphere, and the Macadamia tree was specifically discovered in Southern Queensland, (Australia) during the same time Australia was separating from the mega-continent of Gondwana. The Macadamia nut has become a popular seed in many continents around the world. They are grown commercially in countries such as- Hawaii, China, South Africa, Australia, as well as West and South America. History of Macadamia The orchard nut has been enjoyed for over fifty million years, and dates back thousands of years by the aboriginal people. Initially called ‘Kindal Kindali’ Macadamia nuts were collected and traded between tribes. They were suggested to be a delicacy and were used as ceremonial gifts. Found in the fringes of rainforests, they were prevalent between the native people and animals. The native aboriginals had names such as ‘Goomburra’ and ‘Boomberra’ for the nuts. In the 1850’s natives showed European botanists the seed and they became intrigued; for years they were confused for chestnuts and black beans. The nut was notably exchanged for tobacco, tommy axes, and rum by European settlers. They were collected and researched by Australian botanists throughout the 1850’s. By 1858 it was named ‘Macadamia’ after scientist John Macadam, the Secretary of the Victorian Philosophical Institute. The first orchard tree was planted, and commercialised, by white settlers in the early 1880s. The plant was established in Lismore, Sydney, Australia by Charles Staff, and is now known as ‘Australia’s gift to the world’. Macadamia’s Nutritional Value The Macadamia nuts plant is filled with a long list of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. In terms of what gastrointestinal advantages it holds, the seed is made up of healthy (monosaturated) fats and carbohydrates. This helps raise your good cholesterol levels, and lower your bad ones. This is particularly helpful for those who have, or who are at risk of diabetes, as the seeds do not spike your sugar levels. Macadamia nuts contain natural soluble fibre which benefits your digestive health and gut health, (acts as a prebiotic) and also contains Copper, which promotes your body turning food into energy. Looking at the rest of the body, Macadamia nuts contain an extremely high amount of Manganese and Magnesium. These minerals work towards forming your bones, connective tissue, and regulating your muscles, the clotting of blood, and the nervous system. The Macadamia seed holds lots of vitamins- Vitamin E, (Tocotrienol) Vitamin B1, (Thiamine)Vitamin B6, and Potassium. These nutrients contain lots of neuroprotective properties, for example, assets that support neurotransmitters travelling around the body, assets that promote the normal functions of the body, and more. Macadamia as a Culinary Resource Macadamias are a special resource in cooking as they can be eaten in several different ways. Raw, whole, chopped, blended, fried, and roasted… those are just some of ways you can enjoy this seed. Their versatility allows you to add them to pretty much any meal at any time, whether that’s to add flavour, or to add some texture, macadamias will not let you down. To add to Macadamia’s versatility, the seed has a high oil content (72%) making it perfect to use as a nut butter and a substitute oil for frying. They also create a great coating for foods. Adding them as a crust or coating to your protein part of the meal can make a simple meal a little bit more exciting. Just by simply crushing the seed, you allow for a crunchy and crispy finish that can also be added on top on meals as a similar touch to breadcrumbs. The Macadamia plant has a very distinct taste, giving the nuts a great additive to your dishes. They really boost the taste and consistency of every dish you cook with, as they have a crunchy hard shell to bite into, but are extremely creamy and velvety inside. This makes for a great addition to creamy pasta dishes, and even desserts. In baking, Macadamias work well in crunchy cookies, (especially with white chocolate) muffins, brownies, gateaux, blondies, mousse, and even in sweet and savoury cakes. The creaminess and munch enhance the flavour and texture of ice cream creating a lovely rich pudding. Macadamia as a Healthy Snack As we all now know, Macadamias are very versatile. They can be eaten raw or cooked, so they can be chucked into most meals- salads, pastas, stir-fries, biscotti, gnocchi, and veggie burgers; to name a few. They are a perfect pantry ingredient because they can be used in any meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a healthy snack. Macadamias are full of fibre, good fats, and protein. As a collection, these make the seeds a beneficial snack; for keeping you healthy and fuller for longer. Macadamias are naturally low in sugar and are full of antioxidants, putting them high up on the list for nuts as a smaller bite to eat. There is no end to the list of versions of snack-based Macadamias. For example, they can be toasted, roasted, salted, spiced, and covered in chocolate. Macadamia in the Beauty Industry Earlier, we talked about the long list of nutrients and minerals found in Macadamia seeds. Vitamin E, (Tocotrienol) Vitamin B1, (Thiamine)Vitamin B6, are just some to name, which, mixed into cosmetics can be really nourishing for the skin and hair. This plant-based product is full of fatty-acids which also boost the moisture levels and anti-aging effect in cosmetics such as- soaps, shampoos, and creams. Other Uses With the parts of the nut that are inedible (Shell and husk) they contain the polymer Lignin and the molecule Cellulose. This, when mixed together is commonly used as the main constituent for wood and Mulch. Macadamias also contain activated carbon/activated charcoal which is extracted and used to purify air and water. Macadamias polymeric composites are also used in lots of different structures, in industries such as aerospace, automotive and other infrastructures involving sand and plastic. Why is Macadamia Expensive With Macadamias versatility, comes its unique and specific development. Macadamia nut prices range between £10 and £40 depending on weight. In terms of nut population, Macadamias take 1% of global growth, because of the small number of plantations. On top of this, Macadamia trees take 10 years to start producing nuts, therefore the harvesting process is incredibly slow, making them a rarer resource to sell and buy. However, with the plant having multipurpose, the nuts are equally as popular. Interestingly, Macadamias require very specific growing conditions. It is no wonder that the main inhabitancy of this plant is in the Southern Hemisphere, because the nuts need warm temperatures, and lots of rain to grow. The rainforests in Australia are home to the largest number of Macadamias, very few other locations offer the same conditions as Australian continent. With this being said, these particular landing spots can be pricey to use for development, adding another reason behind Macadamias higher expense. A good fact about Macadamia’s higher paying price comes from their organic production. Organic Macadamia nuts are made without any chemical, stimulant, or pesticide interaction. They are completely natural and have no interference from the minute they are picked from the plant to the moment you buy them in a shop. Rest assured, Fair Trade works with plenty of companies that produce Macadamias, meaning those nuts have a sustainable and equitable trade history. Keep an eye out for Fair Trade Macadamias in your local shops. Where to buy Macadamias? Despite their complicated and slow growth, Macadamias are not hard to find. You can find smaller packets and jars of raw, roasted and whole Macadamias in most supermarkets. If you’re intrigued by Macadamias in other forms, and want to find the best Macadamia nuts, have a look at your local farm shops, organic shops, and macadamia nut shops, you can even buy macadamia nuts online. Here at Whole Foods Earth, we offer a wide range of Macadamias in different forms: Dry Roasted Macadamia Nuts, crunchy/smooth Macadamia butter, Raw Macadamias, and Chocolate Covered Macadamias. Have a look at our healthy food shop online.
Smooth peanut butter - the surprising remedy to avoid babies' nut allergies. New study.29/05/2024The team of scientists from King's College in London encourages parents to give their kids some peanut butter until they reach the age of five. According to their research giving smooth peanut butter to babies and throughout early childhood, could provide them with lifelong protection against peanut allergy. Teenagers who had it until they were 5 were 71% less likely to develop an allergy than children who never ate peanut butter.Food allergies result from our immune system mistaking something harmless for a severe threat. Kids' early life is a critical period for the immune system to learn to recognise foods and which ingredients are good for them. The researchers advise parents to give smooth peanut butter during infancy and then regularly until age five. The tiny babies should not not eat crunchy peanut butter or whole peanuts due to the risk of choking. Some parents might be surprised by the latest results. In the past, it was common to avoid peanut butter and peanuts due to the fear of allergies, especially for children under the age of three. In recent years, peanut allergies have become more common, and currently are affecting one-in-50 children. This led to the banning of all kinds of peanut products at schools. As even a small amount of peanut can cause a life-threatening reaction in somebody with an allergy.The latest findings show the previous advice was wrong. The results are based on a 15-year-old clinical trial in which 640 children at high-risk of peanut allergy took part. Half of them avoided peanuts and the other half had it as part of their diet between four-months-old and five-years-old. The results published in NEJM show that eating peanut butter dramatically reduced allergies by the time children celebrated their fifth birthdays. The findings show that the protection lasted whether children continued eating peanuts or removed them from their diets. Some 15 out of every 100 high-risk children that avoided peanut as an infant developed an allergy in their teenage years. Only four out of every 100 high-risk children that regularly ate peanut as an infant developed an allergy. The results show a remarkable reduction in allergy of 71% and it didn't matter whether children kept eating peanut after the age of five. Prof Gideon Lack, from King's College London, commented for the BBC: "I'm delighted to see this protection continues into adolescence." "We have good reason to believe [it will last] for the life of the individual, it is extremely unusual to see new onset of peanut allergy in adolescent years. "This simple intervention will make a remarkable difference to future generations and see peanut allergies plummet."
What is the Atlantic diet and why it is good for you - New study22/02/2024For many years, the Mediterranean diet has been considered the holy grail of all diets, but a new study suggests that it has gained serious competition. Most popular healthy diet in 2024 The latest food trend and eating plan receiving buzz in 2024 is known as the Atlantic diet or the Southern European Traditional Atlantic Diet. Nutritionists and experts say the Atlantic diet, similar to the Mediterranean diet, includes lots of unprocessed whole foods or just minimally processed foods and offers great health benefits, making it an excellent choice for those who want to follow a healthy lifestyle. The study published in JAMA Network Open, analysed data from a six-month clinical trial that looked at the impact of the local diet on 250 families in a rural town in the northwestern region of Spain Galicia for over a year (from March 3, 2014, to May 29, 2015). The researchers discovered that the study participants had lower rates of metabolic syndrome thanks to following the Atlantic diet. Metabolic syndrome, known as insulin resistance syndrome, is a group of conditions that increase the risk of diabetes, stroke, coronary heart disease, and other health issues. People with metabolic syndrome have higher blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugars, and belly fat. Metabolic syndrome is strictly related to the diet so changing your food habits can help you reduce the risk of getting it. What exactly is the Atlantic diet? The Atlantic diet is a food plan followed by the inhabitants of Portugal and Galicia, a northwestern region of Spain (they are both located on the Atlantic coast). It is similar to the Mediterranean diet in terms of the use of vegetables, fruits, olive oil, olives and seafood, but it also includes different whole foods like legumes (chickpeas and beans), rice, potatoes, cod (Atlantic ocean fish), and some meat products like the traditional pork sausage, for example. What foods are included in the Atlantic diet? The Atlantic diet is all about minimally processed, antioxidant-rich plant-based foods. It includes a lot of local fresh seafood and minimally processed seasonal foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, pulses and healthy mono-unsaturated fats like olive oil. People who follow this diet eat a lot of potatoes, cabbage, legumes, vegetable soups, nuts, fresh and dried fruits, chestnuts, and cheese, occasionally drink wine, and eat moderate amounts of meat. The Atlantic diet is more a lifestyle than just a meal plan. It promotes regular meals, freshly cooked food, spending time with family, being active and going for walks. The recent study isn’t the only study that found the health benefits of the Atlantic diet. A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology last December looked at data from nearly 36 thousand people over a period of over 14 years and found that the Atlantic diet lowered the risk of early death. Those who followed the diet also had a lower risk of death from cancer and heart disease.