MenuClose

The Secret Summer Superfoods

If you’re feeling sluggish after a chocolate filled Easter weekend, or your New Year’s Resolution to eat more healthily is slipping more and more by the day, then do not worry! We take a look at the upcoming summer superfoods – guaranteed to help boost your skin’s complexion, improve immunity and get your healthy eating goals back on track!

Goji Berries

Often known as the ‘wolf berry’, goji berries are a delicious, fat-free snack which are low in calories. Not only are these tiny red berries packed with a multitude of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, Vitamin A, C & B2, they also help to boost the immune system and brain activity.

Similar to the benefits you get from eating other berries, goji berries are also loaded with beta-carotene (a pigment found in plants and fruits) which helps promote healthy skin. Eat them raw, or cook using dried goji berries in both sweet and savoury recipes (they make a great alternative for raisins), and you will be sure to see the benefits from within!


Avocado

Jam-packed full of Vitamin C and containing twice as much potassium as a banana, research has demonstrated that avocados offer a range of powerful health benefits. Along with helping to maintain your skin’s firmness and glowing structure, avocados are an excellent source of healthy fats which can act as a substitute for meat in your diet.

For a delicious breakfast that’ll keep you filled up till lunch, simply place a few slices of ripe avocado on a slice of wholemeal toast, topped with a perfectly poached egg and a scattering of pumpkin seeds. Delicious!


Mushrooms

Mushrooms contain virtually no fat, sugar or salt and are a valuable source of dietary fibre. Just like carrots, tomatoes, peppers, pumpkins and green beans, mushrooms are high in antioxidants which help to get rid of free radicals, a type of chemical that can harm a person’s body cells.

Packed with numerous B vitamins, mushrooms help the body gain energy. Also, with more than 90 per cent water content, adding mushrooms to dishes such as stews or casseroles is a great way to make you feel fuller without boosting your calorie content. And with so many different types of mushroom available, there’s no reason not to include them into your regular diet all year round.


Watermelon

There’s nothing like a juicy watermelon on a hot summer’s day and as far as fruits go, watermelon is one of the lowest in calories with only 46 calories per cup.  Full of vitamins A, B6 and C, watermelon is also packed with lycopene and amino acids, which all combine towards healthy hair, stronger immune system, and an increase in antioxidants.

In the summer months, dehydrated skin can lead to a dull and dry appearance, but watermelon has such a high water content that it also helps to keep the skin hydrated and moisturised. Incorporate a slice of watermelon into your daily diet or regularly hydrate with watermelon juice to keep your skin supple and looking great all summer long!


Turmeric

Turmeric is becoming increasingly popular with healthy eaters thanks to its many reputed health benefits. Containing the healthy compound curcumin, this vibrant yellow spice can do much more than just enhance the flavour of curry.

Studies investigating this compound’s healing properties are ongoing, but turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities as well as in helping boost the immune system. Researchers also believe that including turmeric in your diet is great for helping with digestion problems. Add it to your scrambled eggs or smoothie in a morning, or toss over vegetables prior to roasting. Turmeric also makes a great addition to soups and rice dishes, and if you’re feeling extremely adventurous, why not prepare a special turmeric tea? Simply simmer turmeric with milk and honey to make an earthy and comforting beverage for a vibrant morning boost.

To speak to the Devonshire Spa about your next super treatment, call 01298 338408.