SUPERFOODS THAT CHANGED MY LIFE

SUPER FRUITS: AVOCADOS I eat two daily in my morning smoothie. They contain 25 essential nutrients and are full of heart-healthy fats. Avocados boost the immune system and nervous system as well as reducing inflammation in the body. They contain lutein for eye health and folate – fantastic for pregnant women.

And tomatoes are super rich in lycopene which has been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease by 30 per cent. They help both the digestive system and liver function, as well as preventing constipation. SUPER VEGETABLES: WATERCRESS Cress scores the highest on the aggregate nutrient density index, which measures the vitamin, mineral and phyto nutrient content of foods per calorie.

Phyto nutrients protect the cells from DNA damage. Cress boosts heart and eye health, contains more bioavailable calcium than milk, and one cup provides our daily requirement of vitamin K, making it a super bone-boosting food. SUPER GRAINS: QUINOA This has more vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants than any other grain as well as amino acids. It also has more fibre than other grains, plus it’s a good source of iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc. I make quinoa porridge, use it instead of rice, pasta or potatoes in meals, and to bulk out salads. It is delicious served with

roasted vegetables. SUPER FOOD POWDERS: MACA AND SPIRULINA Helps the body cope with stress, is a great protein source and is bursting with vitamin C. But my favourite thing is that it is amazing at balancing hormones, aiding menopause and PMT symptoms, boosting libido and fertility as well as increasing energy. It has also been shown to increase muscle strength, brain function and memory.

It boosts heart health, the immune system, contains anti-cancer properties, aids bone health, detoxifies, can prevent depression and diabetes, and slows down the ageing process. SUPER TEA: LIQUORICE TEA Liquorice is wonderful for regulating Former WAG Julie Neville appeared to have it all. She was married to England footballer Phil Neville with two children. But following the premature birth of their daughter in 2004, both Julie and Isabella’s lives were hanging in the balance. She then suffered health problems, including glaucoma and panic attacks. Today, she is a different person, and credits superfoods. Now she has written a book with tips to help others cortisol, the stress hormone. However, its benefits don’t end there. It has been shown to reduce body fat and aid the respiratory system by loosening mucus and soothing the throat and sinuses. It is fantastic natural anti-inflammatory. SUPER NUTS: BRAZIL NUTS They are the No1 food source of selenium with two nuts providing 100 per cent of our daily requirement. Selenium has anti-inflammatory properties as well as lifting moods and preventing depression. SUPER OILS: COCONUT OIL Has a high smoke point, so it can be used to cook at high temperatures. A great source of energy, it suppresses the appetite, increases calorie burning, and studies show it is effective in reducing belly fat.

It is rich in lauric acid which kills off bacteria and viruses, so it prevents infection.

Coconut oil lowers bad cholesterol, raises good cholesterol and promotes a healthy thyroid and endocrine system. SUPER SEEDS: HEMP SEEDS These contain all 20 amino acids. They contain more omega 3 than fish or fish supplements.

Hemp has been proven to increase circulation and reduce inflammation and so may aid arthritis suffers. It is an energy booster with vitamins B, D and E, magnesium, copper, potassium, phosphorous and calcium. SUPER SWEETS: BEE POLLEN With a 40 per cent protein content, it is richer in protein than any animal source, and contains almost every nutrient we require. It is rich in antioxidants, helping reduce inflammation. It is rich in rutin, which is a specific bioflavanoid that strengthens blood vessels, regulates cholesterol and supports circulation. Pollen also reduces histamine. It can boost energy, hormones, the digestive system and prevent fatigue. Superfoods: How to Make Them Work for You is available later this month.