Eat homemade this winter

Nutritional surveys have found New Zealanders have inadequate intakes of several key ‘wellness’ nutrients including vitamins and the minerals zinc, selenium and iron.

This is likely due to high intake of convenience foods that tend to be overly processed. Processed foods may be tasty and filling but their nutritional value can be low. And, they can be full of additives.

One of the best ways to stay healthy this winter is to get the recipe books out!

Choose meals that include proteins and lots of colourful and fibre rich vegetables. Things like casseroles, curries and stir fries. Homemade soups are also delicious and high in nutritional content.

The rule of thumb is, if you recognise it as a real food, eat and enjoy. If you’re unsure what food it was before it became ‘something in a box/bag’, understand the nutritional content may be negligible.

The problem is, most of us are time poor and struggle to prepare fresh foods every day. In winter, we also get a bit sluggish and ‘couch friendly’. We seek comfort snack foods. So, make a resolution to stock your fridge and cook fresh and colourful several nights a week. Then, consider a supplement to ‘top up’ any nutrients you could be low in.

A multivitamin is a convenient way to get these in an easy daily dose. But if you haven’t been taking a multi, choose a stronger, immune specific formulation with a higher level of zinc, vitamin C and vitamin D to support your immune system’s power right now.
One study showed people with the highest levels of vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin) were far less likely to get winter ills. And, those who took zinc and vitamin C had shorter illnesses and less severe symptoms. Vitamin A is known to support the mucous membranes, our first lines of defence in the nose, sinuses and mouth.

Herbs are also worth adding to your winter health kit. They have been studied over many years for their effect on the immune system. Garlic and the purple cornflower Echinacea are probably two of the best known. Studies show Echinacea can shorten winter ills and reduces overall risk.

Blackmores supplements contain scientifically studied ingredients. They are formulated by a team of scientific researchers who analyse evidence and effect to ensure key ingredients are included at the right level. High quality ingredients are selected and no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners are added.

Key immune support products in the Blackmores range are high potency Immuno Shield, Echinacea liquid, Echinacea ACE + Zinc, Odourless Garlic and Bio C 1000mg, a buffered, gentle-on-the-stomach vitamin C that contains also contains naturally sourced citrus bioflavonoids.

For more information, go to blackmoresnz.co.nz or phone the Blackmores Naturopathic Advisory Line on 0508 75 74 73.