When we fall pregnant and give birth, this equilibrium is affected (as you well know). The quicker you get that equilibrium back, the quicker it is until you feel good about yourself again, have more energy, etc...

You don’t have time for fancy meals and eating plans. Add these 4 super foods to your diet- you’ll be giving your body some much needed nutrients. Supplementing is also very important; I’ll cover that in the next article.

1)     Cinnamon

Cinnamon is not only delicious, but good for you too! One teaspoon of cinnamon contains 28 mg of calcium, almost one mg of iron, over a gram of fiber, and quite a lot of vitamins- C,E, K, and manganese.

Several studies have shown improved insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control by taking as little as ½ teaspoon of cinnamon per day. Improving insulin resistance can help in weight control as well as decreasing the risk for heart disease. Along with the improvement in blood sugar, these studies have documented improvements in triglycerides, blood pressure, and LDL(bad) cholesterol. Methylhydroxychalcone- an active ingredient in cinnamon, increases your cells’ ability to metabolise sugar by up to 20.

Cinnamon also has a mild anti-clotting effect in the blood. But it is conceivable that too much could cause bleeding problems, especially when combined with medications which “thin the blood,” including aspirin. Be careful of high doses if you’re pregnant, because of possible stimulating effects on the uterus- stick to one teaspoon.

Where can I buy it? Every supermarket will have cinnamon. You can buy the sticks or the powder-sticks last longer, but powder is more versatile and will last at least 6 months.

2)      Blueberries

All fruits with a purple-blue colour are rich in a flavonoid called anthocyanidins. These natural plant chemicals are very powerful antioxidants that help combat the effects of toxins. They are also anti-inflammatory and help reduce allergic reactions.  They also keep blood capillaries healthy which can be helpful with varicose veins and bruising. They are rich in vitamin C which boosts your immunity. Blueberries have the lowest sugar content of any fruit, AND they’re a good source of fibre.

Where can I buy them? Woolies have either fresh or big frozen bags. I’d opt for the frozen. They last longer and I think they taste better. Dischem and other big pharmaceutical stores also have a range, but I find Woolies are more value for money. Big fruit and veggie stores will obviously stock blueberries as well.They are quite pricey, but a bag should last you over a week.

3)      Quinoa (pronounced Keen-Wah)

This is a truly amazing food. It’s sort of similar to couscous, but is actually a seed, not a grain. It’s often eaten as a rice/pasta substitute by vegans because it’s very high in protein. It is a staple food in the high Andes, and is reputed to have been the source of the Inca’s strength as they worked at high altitudes building an empire. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, providing almost four times as much calcium as wheat, plus iron, B vitamins and vitamin E. It also provides essential fatty acids.

Where can I buy it? Most health shops will have quinoa. Shotgun makes it as well. You can buy the Shotgun one in most supermarkets- look by the rice, couscous and pastas. It is quite expensive (about R40 a box) but will last a long time.  Read the cooking instructions on the box.

4)      Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a completely natural product. It is made from apple juice and is fermented to hard apple cider. It is then fermented a second time to make apple cider vinegar.

It will balance your entire inner body system. As I mentioned before, the body constantly strives to achieve a state of equilibrium. Apple cider vinegar helps the body maintain a healthy alkaline pH level. Research shows that higher acid levels (lower pH level) leads to a lack of energy and higher incidences of infection, so we want a more alkaline balance.

As part of balancing the body’s pH, apple cider vinegar creates an overall detoxification of the body. It helps stimulate cardiovascular circulation and help detoxify the liver.

It also aids in weight loss. Add a capful to a glass of water. DO NOT drink it straight, it will damage your oesophagus! This concoction can be sipped throughout the day. Data shows some limited, yet significant, weight loss benefits from sustained daily intake of acetic acid (which is a main ingredient in apple cider vinegar).

It doesn’t taste great, but you’ll get used to it really quickly.

Where can I buy it? Most good supermarkets and Dischems will have a Natures Choice range. Look for the plastic apple cider vinegar bottles. Choose the cloudy one rather than the clear.

Eat well, get moving, supplement, add these super foods to your diet, and you’ll start feeling your old self sooner than you think!

Whole Again health looks at health holistically. We offer personalised health and wellness consultations, personal training and nutrition plans. www.wholeagainhealth.co.za, @againhealth Facebook: Whole Again Health.

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