Life & Culture

Two Is Better Than One: The Best Health Food Combos

Nov 08, 2021 ByClaire Miles

We can all list a few foods that we know have healthy nutrients. Kale is known for its vitamin C, such as berries are known for being excellent sources of antioxidants, and bananas for their potassium. But what most do not know, is that some foods bring out each other’s nutrients even more, when eaten together. 

Lemons, which are highly abundant in vitamin C, make plant-based iron more absorbable in the body. Combining lemon juice with kale, or spinach, or cabbage which are all veggies rich in iron, can make for a delicious salad, and a powerful, healthy snack. 

Cropped Shot Of Woman Eating Superfood Smoothie Bowl

GettyImages/Oscar Wong

Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant with many health benefits, such as improved heart health and a lower risk of certain types of cancer. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, giving the fruit its deep red pigment. When eaten with tomatoes, the monounsaturated fat in avocados makes the effects of lycopene more powerful on the body. 

Chickpeas are rich in vitamin B6, which keeps your nervous system and immune system healthy. The vitamin also helps the body absorb magnesium-rich foods when eaten together. To feel the effects, try a meal combining chickpeas with foods that are high in magnesium, such as salmon, beetroot, or okra. 

The antioxidants found in dark chocolate, combined with the polyphenols from apples which reduce inflammation and blood pressure, form a powerful snack. Not only is it sweet, but the combination improves circulation, fights blood clots, and reduces the risk of heart disease. Craving something sweet? Try pouring melted chocolate on sliced fresh apples to ease your sweet tooth. 

Sometimes, when preparing a meal, the fear of harmful food combinations may arise. It is always best to check which foods are compatible for your body to digest and which are not, no matter how healthy they may be independent. Next time your body is feeling like it’s lacking strength or vitamins, try one of our food combinations to ensure maximum healthy nutrient intake and safe digestion!