WHOLEFOOD STAPLES

Eating healthy often means eating fresh, with frequent trips to the markets and grocers. Nevertheless here are a list of basic wholefood staples you should have stored away for a rainy day or simply to boost a meal! QUINOA – is actually not a grain but a seed related to the spinach family. This seed is a fantastic non-animal source of protein and provides a source of fiber and Low GI carbs. Cook as you would rice and can be used for sweet or savory dishes. BUCKWHEAT – Buckwheat, like Quinoa is also a seed, its Gluten free and full of protein. Buckwheat contains rutin which helps strength capillary walls.Cook like rice or grind into flour. Fantastic to make pancakes, GF Cereals and baking. LSA – LSA is a combination of ground Linseeds, sunflower seeds and almonds. LSA provides a power combo of protein and essential fatty acids. Add LSA to your cereals, smoothies or baking. DATES – Dates make an excellent substitute for sugar in cooking. Simply blitz them in a food processor until they resemble brown sugar. LENTILS – Lentils can be stored for long periods of time and are easy to prepare once you know how. They provide a great source of protein, fiber and slow release carbs. Add to any soups, stews and curries. COCOA – Theobroma cocoa literally translate to ‘food of the gods’. Cocoa stimulates endorphin production, which gives a feeling of pleasure and increase serotonin, which acts as an antidepressant, it also helps lower blood cholesterol and improves blood flow to the heart and brain. Cocoa is allergy and diabetic friendly (Cocoa should not contain any sugar!). Traditionally the cocoa bean was made into a hot drink (mixed with vanilla or other spices) or turned into mole (savoury sauce). ALMOND MEAL – Almond meal is simply ground almonds. It provides all the health benefits of almonds in a easily digestible state. Full of protein and good fats, Add to cereals, smoothies and use in cooking as a flour substitute, CHIA SEEDS – Named the Indian running beans as South American Indians ate Chia before endurance contests. Chia seeds became famous from Bakers Delight bread (However eating theses seeds in a white bread deletes any of the health benefits as the white bread is so inflammatory). They are fantastic for inflammatory conditions and constipation. Add to Cereals, smoothies and baking. COCONUT – Coconut is full of fiber and is anti-inflammatory, its beneficial in benign prostatic hyperplasia, altering blood cholesterol and anti cancer. Add to cereals, smoothies and cooking.