Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Edible Mushrooms – Sea Vegetables – Anti-Aging Foods – Spices

Anti-Aging foods – These will become increasingly popular in the next couple of years as people embrace the ongoing research into longevity, fasting, intermittent fasting & time restricted eating. Whilst this can include a broad range of different foods, bringing the focus back to getting real nutritious food into a meal will take precedence over highly packaged non-nutrient choices. As the pace of society quickens, and research continues into the benefits of fasting options as an anti-aging measure, people will not be eating as often, so food choices will be more conscious. People will opt for more nutrient density in an single meal, particularly in relation to up-regulating brain health & neurotransmitter function. Food choices for 2019 will include more: colored vegetables especially dark greens and reds, good quality protein- particularly fattier cuts of meat, & poultry with skin on, vitamin rich fats & oils such as- avocado, oily fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, & small amounts of raw milk products, unprocessed grains and legumes for those that can tolerate these.

Edible mushrooms – Awareness around the microbiome in the gut & mouth has grown in the last couple of years. Recent research has explored the effect of the role of edible mushrooms in promoting healthy regulation of the microbiota. They are an excellent choice of prebiotic to stimulate the growth of gut microbiota & improving overall gut health. Including the following will be beneficial for gut health: reishi, maitake, shiitake, portobello and white button mushrooms. 2019 sees people wanting to experiment more with edible mushrooms, & try varieties that are new to them.

Manuka honey is anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, has wound healing properties, and is helpful for sleep. One of the main healing properties of Manuka honey comes with its antibacterial activity. It retains a high moisture level & viscosity to provide an active barrier against infection. Manuka honey’s significant antibacterial actions may be related to the low pH level of honey, and its high sugar content, which is enough to hinder the growth of microbes.

Raw honey is unfiltered and unpasteurized, and like Manuka honey, raw honey has a range of benefits when consumed in this state. Regular raw honey is nutritionally dense and has some great immune-boosting abilities. Raw unfiltered honey is a rich source of amino acids, vitamins & minerals. Manuka honey is a superior product, having more than 4 times the potency of regular raw honey.

Research has shown there is benefit in regular consumption, providing a protective effect against colds & infections. Manuka honey can be applied topically to support would healing & used in skin care products.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – several recent studies have supported the decades old finding about health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. A large component of Mediterranean diet is Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and this is a key representative component for lowering cardiovascular disease. While being out of the limelight for some years, Extra Virgin Olive Oil will come back into favor in 2019. EVOO is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and has a nutrient dense profile that may contribute to healthy maintenance of the cardiovascular system. It is one of the few monounsaturated oils that may be used for higher heat cooking without becoming toxic. It also has liver protective benefits with its high vitamin E profile.

Sea Vegetables – One of the healthiest superfoods available for consumption. An effective way to include a heap of nutrients in the small amount that is required to be beneficial. A very rich source of vitamins, minerals & phytonutrients. Sea vegetables are extremely versatile for both culinary uses & nutritional benefits. Due to its enzymatic activity, seaweed promotes blood sugar regulation. With the popularity of paleo style eating, this may be welcomed by those wanting to curb their carbohydrate cravings whilst also supporting digestion. Popular varieties include, Arame, Dulse, Hijiki, Kombucha, Nori, Wakame. Add only 1 teaspoon on a daily basis for long term health benefits.

Spices – Regaining popularity due to their wonderful aromas & excellent health benefits. A recent revival of the golden root Turmeric saw its increased consumption over the last couple of years with several studies being conducted into its therapeutic benefits. 2019 brings more focus on the research around the health benefits & uses of its cousins – cardamom, cinnamon, star anise and cayenne.

Some spice benefits include:

Cardamom – antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, has diuretic properties, circulatory stimulant, detoxifying, and helps promote oral health.

Ceylon Cinnamon (true cinnamon – not Cassia bark) – antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antilipemic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, cardio protective, cognition enhancer and anti-cancer.

Star anise – antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-fungal, cardio protective, anti-diabetic, immunoprotective.

Cayenne pepper – anti-irritant, antifungal, migraine prevention, digestive aid, circulatory stimulant, antibacterial, promotes longevity, anti-diabetic, supports joint health.