We all know that eating fresh fruit and vegetables is good for us, but certain plants can really pack a nutritional punch. If you’re looking to increase the variety of the plants you eat, and benefit from multiple vitamins and nutrients, then consider adding these three plants to your basket next time you shop.
Mushrooms
Fungi boast incredible health benefits, and recent research indicates that they can reduce the risk of some cancers, lower overall sodium intake, reduce cholesterol and protect brain health. Try them fried in a little butter and garlic, placed on top of a pizza, or stirred through a risotto.
Blackberries
Dark fruits, including blackberries, bilberries, plums, and dates, contain antioxidants that can reduce harmful free radicals in the body. These tasty berries can also heal wounds faster, help to regenerate the skin, and assist the body in absorbing iron. Try them over your morning cereal, cooked down into a compote to eat with yogurt, or even in a cake.
Spinach
One of the most widely used salad leaves is also one of the healthiest – spinach is well known for its high iron content, but it can also benefit the skin, hair, and bone health. Like mushrooms, there is evidence to suggest that regularly consuming spinach can reduce the risk of some cancers, and it is also heralded for its high calcium content. Try it in smoothies, soups, stews, on toast with egg, stirred through pasta – there are so many ways to use spinach, and all of them are delicious!
