Some foods are better together!
You can increase the health benefits of certain foods when you consume them as a combination. This is called a nutritional synergy.
A good example is adding rosemary when grilling meat. The herb helps reduce the high heat-related concerns of grilling.
Black pepper significantly increases the health benefits of curcumin found in turmeric. My favorite way to use both spices is sprinkling them on eggs!
Broccoli and tomatoes are both nutritious foods high in vitamin C; together, they become even more nutritious.
Citrus (lemon, lime, grapefruit) juice helps increase green tea’s benefits.
Spinach and lemon is another great combination, as vitamin C helps with the absorption of plant-based iron. This is a big change for me since I grew up eating spinach with yogurt. It was a big shock to find out that iron and calcium don’t go together 😕 Similarly you can boost your iron absorption by adding red pepper to lentils, and sesame seeds to Brussels sprouts.
Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble. Avocados help the absorption of vitamin K found in kale. Adding yogurt to carrots or sweet potatoes will get you a better vitamin A intake. Some foods are inherently fatty: Salmon (vitamin D), sunflower seeds (vitamin E), and egg yolks (vitamin D).
Vitamin D enhances calcium absorption. Try having green leafy vegetables with salmon for the added benefits.
Hope this list encourages you to have more nutritional synergies on your plate!
Stay healthy and stay happy!