seeds

The five foods that can support you through the festive season. More than 200 years ago the American statesman Benjamin Franklin famously said of life: “Nothing is certain except death and taxes.”

Need something sweet for Afternoon Tea? This dark chocolate tiffin is a great choice and easy to make! With your healthy favourites added crystallised ginger, pistachios and omega mix.

It has happened to us all. We are enjoying the summer weather in short sleeves and shorts, and, before we know it, we have been targeted and bitten by a bug. Insect bites in Britain are mostly harmless, but they do sting and nip. While we may not notice a bite at first, the lumps under our skin a few hours later are a tell-tale sign we have provided a take-away for a flying assailant. Creams and ointments can help, but did you know that there are natural items around at home that could help soothe the itching?

The World Health Organization recommends consumption of pumpkin seeds as a good way of obtaining essential mineral zinc, which can prevent retina damage and aid the healing of wounds.

This Coconut Caramel Granola Tart is no-bake and ready in less than an hour. It has a nutty, chewy and naturally sweet granola biscuit-y base filled with a gooey, no-date salted caramel topped with whipped fluffy coconut yoghurt/cream and fresh fruits and superfoods.

Chocolate Chip Sunflower Cookies made without any dairy or eggs make a perfect lunchbox treat or snack on the go. Using coconut oil helps to form a chewy centre while the sunflower seeds add a delicious and protein boosting crunch.

Good nutrition can help your body perform better and recover faster after you exercise. By getting the right nutrients even before you lace up your trainers or put on your swimwear, you can put in place the building blocks for success and get ready to help your muscles repair after your workout. But did you know that you can make your diet work harder for you before AND after your workout routine?

Seeds can provide the kind of slow energy release that is vital for keeping us feeling fuelled for longer. Chia, flax, pumpkin and hemp seeds have been shown to be high in plant-based omega-3 fatty acids.

Our bodies are able to detect and protect against illness and disease, but there are simple changes we can make to boost our chances of remaining well. Starting with what we eat is essential. Here is a quick guide to the bodyguard foods packed with the nutrients vital for our immune system:

One in five of us is now suffering from symptoms of depression. That is twice as many as before the gloom of the Covid 19 pandemic closed over us.

The Christmas cake is, of course, naturally vegetarian. But this year we have introduced a simple twist that means it can also be naturally vegan. You can make it any time in the run up to the big day and nobody has to miss out on a slice of festive tradition!