Food: The Art, Science, and Joy of Eating Well

 

Hello, dear readers!

I hope you all are doing wonderfully well. It’s been a few days since I last blogged, and I must say, I’ve missed sharing insights with you. Life, much like food, is best enjoyed with variety—so let’s spice things up with a deep dive into something we all love: food!

Food isn’t just about survival; it’s about experience, culture, pleasure, and sometimes, a perfectly crispy French fry dipped in a milkshake (don’t judge until you’ve tried it). Today, let’s explore the fascinating world of food, from smart eating habits to mind-blowing combinations, nutritional benefits, and a few culinary surprises.

1. Food and Mood: What You Eat Affects How You Feel

Did you know that what you put on your plate can shape your mood? Science backs this up!

• Happy Foods: Bananas, dark chocolate, and salmon boost serotonin (your happiness hormone). So, if you’re feeling a bit down, grab some dark chocolate (80% cacao or more for maximum benefits) instead of that sugary donut.

• Energy-Boosting Foods: Swap caffeine overload for natural energizers like almonds, quinoa, and chia seeds. Unlike coffee, they won’t lead to an afternoon crash.

• Stress-Reducing Foods: Avocados, leafy greens, and yogurt can help reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone).

Pro Tip: If you’ve had a long day, try a honey and chamomile tea before bed—it’s like a warm hug in a cup.

2. The Science of Perfectly Paired Foods

Some foods just belong together—not by accident, but because their flavors complement each other on a molecular level. Here are some fascinating pairings backed by science:

• Turmeric & Black Pepper – Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, is hard for the body to absorb on its own. Black pepper contains piperine, which enhances curcumin absorption by up to 2,000%. Translation? More anti-inflammatory benefits in every bite.

• Tomatoes & Olive Oil – Lycopene (a powerful antioxidant in tomatoes) is fat-soluble, meaning it’s absorbed better when eaten with healthy fats like olive oil. That’s why Mediterranean diets are so effective!

• Spinach & Lemon Juice – Spinach is rich in non-heme iron (plant-based iron), but your body struggles to absorb it efficiently. Enter vitamin C from lemon juice, which increases iron absorption, making this combo a nutritional powerhouse.

• Avocado & Salsa – Carotenoids (found in tomatoes, carrots, and peppers) become 4x more bioavailable when eaten with healthy fats like avocado. That guacamole just got even better!

• Green Tea & Lemon – Adding lemon juice to green tea preserves catechins, the antioxidants responsible for tea’s numerous health benefits, making them more effective in fighting free radicals.

Pro Tip: Next time you’re making a meal, think beyond taste—consider how foods work together to maximize their health benefits!

3. How to Eat Smart: Hacks for Better Health and Flavour 

Eating on a Budget? No Problem!

1. Buy in Bulk: Nuts, grains, and beans are much cheaper when purchased in bulk.

2. Frozen is Just as Good as Fresh: Frozen veggies and fruits retain nutrients and last longer.

3. Plan Your Meals: Prepping meals saves both money and unnecessary stress.

4. Repurpose Leftovers: Got extra rice? Turn it into fried rice or rice pudding instead of throwing it out.

Maximizing Nutrients Like a Pro

• Pair Vitamin C with Iron: Eating oranges or bell peppers with iron-rich foods (like spinach) helps your body absorb iron better.

• Cook Tomatoes for More Lycopene: Cooking tomatoes increases lycopene (a powerful antioxidant).

• Eat the Rainbow: Different colors mean different nutrients. A plate full of colourful veggies ensures a variety of vitamins.

4. The Surprising Science of Eating Slowly

Ever inhaled a meal so fast that you barely tasted it? Guilty! But here’s why you should slow down:

• Your brain takes 20 minutes to realize you’re full. Eating slower can prevent overeating.

• Digestion starts in your mouth. Chewing thoroughly helps break down food and improves nutrient absorption.

• Eating mindfully allows you to enjoy flavors more. Why rush through something so pleasurable?

Try This: Put your fork down between bites. It’s a small habit that makes a huge difference

5. The Superfoods You Should Start Eating Today

Forget the overhyped trends—these power-packed foods deserve a place on your plate:

• Moringa: A nutrient powerhouse with 7x more vitamin C than oranges and 15x more potassium than bananas.

• Seaweed: Rich in iodine, which supports thyroid health.

• Pumpkin Seeds: Great for magnesium and promoting better sleep.

• Black Garlic: Fermented garlic with twice the antioxidants of regular garlic.

Final Thoughts: Food as an Experience

Food is more than fuel—it’s culture, science, and art combined. Whether you’re trying new combinations, eating more mindfully, or boosting your nutrient intake, every meal is an opportunity to nourish both body and soul.

Now, tell me—what’s the weirdest or best food combination you’ve ever tried? Drop it in the comments, and let’s discuss!

Until next time, eat well and stay amazing!

By: Ruby Dalvina 

March 23rd, 2025

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