Perfecting the Art of Food Pairing
Good health is important, and at Ticy City, we believe in the power of food combinations, commonly known as food pairing. It’s a fact that many things in life are better when they come in pairs, and the same goes for food.
When it comes to food, you might have wondered about the ideal combinations for a healthy and beneficial meal. Some may have heard about the idea that combining protein and carbohydrates in one meal can aid in weight loss. However, a study published about 10 years ago debunked this belief.
The concept of food synergy or food pairing suggests that consuming certain foods together can have more nutritional benefits than eating them separately. In this article, Susan Bowerman, the Director of Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training at Herbalife, shares a list of 5 food pairings that offer better nutritional value when consumed together.
Colorful Vegetables with a Dash of Healthy Fat:
Pairing a variety of colorful vegetables with a small amount of healthy fats enhances the absorption of carotenoids, natural pigments in vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, and spinach. These pigments, such as lycopene, beta-carotene, and lutein, play a vital role in antioxidant defense.
Vitamin C from Fruits with Iron-Rich Plant Foods:
Enhance the absorption of non-heme iron found in plant foods by pairing them with fruits rich in vitamin C. For example, adding citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruit to a salad can boost the absorption of iron from leafy greens.
Green Tea and Lemon:
The antioxidants in green tea, specifically catechins, are beneficial for protecting cells from oxidative damage. Adding lemon to green tea can enhance the absorption of these beneficial compounds.
Calcium-Rich Leafy Greens with Vitamin D from Fatty Fish:
Consuming leafy greens high in calcium, such as kale or collard greens, along with vitamin D from fatty fish like salmon or mackerel, helps in the better absorption of calcium. This pairing supports bone health.
Mixed Plant-Based Meals:
A diverse mix of plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, and legumes, provides a wide range of beneficial antioxidants. Mixing fruits like oranges, apples, grapes, and blueberries can offer higher antioxidant benefits compared to consuming them individually.
ธicy City, prioritize health, and we encourage a lifestyle change towards nutritional well-being. Remember, ‘Eat your food as your medicine, otherwise, you have to eat medicine as your food.