Overindulged this holiday? You’re not the only one. Luckily there are a number of healthy food trends that are making waves in 2016, which means you can still be healthy without just sticking to boring old celery and cottage cheese. Read on and find some new ways of eating that are both interesting AND healthy:
1. Pulses
We’ve always known they’re good for us but 2016 will be the year that everyone rediscovers the joys of the humble pulse. The United Nations has even declared 2016 “The International Year of Pulses” because they play such an important role in environmental sustainability. So what are pulses? Think beans, lentils and chickpeas, all of which are packed with fibre and protein and extremely versatile when it comes to cooking. Whip up some hummus, make a bean salad or enjoy some chickpea fritters for dinner.
2. Water
We all know we need to get our eight glasses a day but let’s be honest: some people find plain old water a bit boring. If you want to spice it up, add some sliced lemon, strawberries or mint into a jug of cold H20, or why not consider the new trend of gulping down coconut water? This all-natural drink has a sweet nutty taste and is produced from young, green coconuts. Besides contributing to a glowing skin, it’s also known to cure a hangover and reduce blood pressure.
3. Fermented foods
Germans have been eating sauerkraut for years but the rest of the world has only recently caught on to this trend of fermenting your food. This healthy food trend for 2016 is said to boost the good bacteria in your gut and aid digestion. Start out with some ‘kimchi’, a Korean dish of spicy pickled cabbage and then test your palate with pickled radishes or cucumbers.
4. Bowls
You may have already spotted them on restaurant menus everywhere, but serving food out of bowls will continue to be a healthy food trend in 2016. Choose a wholegrain such as barley, add a protein like tofu or grilled chicken, a whole lot of crunchy veggies and a delicious dressing and you’ve got a bowl full of goodness that’s tasty too.
5. Plant-based meals
As meat becomes more expensive and consumers become more conscious of its origins and the ethics behind sourcing it, plant-based meals will continue to grow in popularity in 2016. Said to reduce your risk of cancer and other illnesses, meat-free diets are already the choice of many celebrities overseas. Root-to-tip eating – where you eat the leaves and root of the vegetables too – is another healthy eating trend worth taking note of.
At Fedhealth, you and your family’s health are important to us. Protect the health of your loved ones with a medical aid plan that gives you a wide range of benefits at prices you can afford. Get a quote from Fedhealth or contact us to find out more.
