A nourishing diet is the cornerstone for supporting our inner well-being, with nutrition having the power to influence our overall health. It’s possible to optimise wellness through nutrition by consuming the right balance of macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, fat) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals).
Food fuels our body and brain and meeting our daily requirements for essential nutrients can help us to feel and perform at our best. Good nutrition may have short and long-term benefits to health, including stronger immunity, better energy, improved skin health and more!
We’re all unique and so are our nutritional requirements, which is why we’ve created a vast array of delicious and nutritious recipes to help you reach your individual health goals. If you’re looking to enhance your wellbeing, then check our nutritional categories below:
Mood + Brain Power
Did you know that 60% of our brain is made up of fat? Healthy fats called omega 3’s found in oily fish, nuts and seeds can help to nourish the brain. Our brain also uses 20% of all energy required by the body to function, with glucose being a primary fuel source. All carbohydrates break down to glucose but fibre-rich ones such as wholegrains provide that steadier and more sustained release of energy. Lastly, there’s a reason why we crave carbohydrates such as sugar when feeling down, as they play a role in the production of our happy hormone, serotonin! If opting for those mood-boosting pleasure foods, why not try some healthier options using the Panasonic kitchen appliances?
All Mood and Brain Power Recipes
Energy Boost
Carbohydrates are a preferred source of energy by the body, however, opting for the complex carbohydrates may provide that steadier and more sustained release of energy. Try wholegrains, oats, potato and quinoa. Don’t fall short on energy nutrients, for example, B vitamins may help to convert the food we eat into energy, whilst iron may help with the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Meat, fish and eggs are a common source of these nutrients.
Skin Health
Enjoy that glowing skin with omega-3 fats found in oily fish, walnuts, chia and flaxseeds. Orange and dark green fruit and vegetables such as carrots and spinach are a source of beta carotene. This nutrient converts to vitamin A within the body and has antioxidant effects. Zinc is a key mineral for supporting the health of our hair, skin and nails, with meat, fish, nuts and seeds being a common source. Lastly, vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant which may have skin protective effects. Top foods include olive oil, nuts, seeds and avocados.
Immunity
Did you know that as much as 70% of our immune system lies within the gut, and our gut bacteria can communicate with immune cells influencing their function? Why not support the health of your gut with fermented foods rich in beneficial bacteria, such as yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha? Enjoy orange and green fruit and veg such as sweet potato and kale. These foods are rich in beta-carotene which converts within the body to vitamin A, a nutrient with immune support effects. Vitamin D has immune-modulating properties with oily fish such as salmon, and egg yolks being a top source. Lastly vitamin C-rich fruit and veg alongside foods containing zinc, all play a role in keeping those sniffles at bay!
Gut Health
On average, the Western diet lacks fibre, yet this component of the diet is crucial for healthy digestion. Fibre feeds our beneficial gut bacteria and supports overall gut health. Top foods include wholegrain carbohydrates, beans, pulses, nuts and seeds. Why not also try some fermented foods such as yoghurt and kefir which provide gut-friendly bacteria?
Low Carbs
If you’re following a low-carbohydrate diet, then we have you covered with delicious low-carb recipes which are also nourishing to the body. With inventive substitutes for starchy carbohydrates such as cauliflower couscous and courgette noodles, you won’t feel like you’re missing out on your favourite dish!
Family & Friends
Enjoy a range of family-friendly meals with a helping hand of the Panasonic kitchen appliances. Batch cooking and one-pan dishes can feed many, whilst saving time and hassle in the kitchen. Try out some fun meals and snack recipes, which are lunch box friendly such as these easy-to-make homemade fish fingers and these healthier granola bars.
