The world of diet and nutrition is always changing, and different types of food and products go in and out of fashion, the same as they do in any other industry. When it comes to your wellness and wellbeing, what is hot and what is not in 2014?
Coconut oil is one of the biggest products of the year. The saturated fat in this oil helps your body to absorb amino acids, vitamins and minerals, and it also helps to improve your digestive system. Coconut oil also has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties and can be used both externally and internally. On top of all the above benefits, coconut oil has been proven to improve thyroid function, stimulate metabolism and boost energy levels.
Gluten free is not a new trend, but it is one that is here to stay. A survey of over 500 dieticians showed that the majority think that one of the biggest trends of the year is going to be going gluten free. More and more people are catching on to the benefits of removing gluten from their diet, and so the trend looks less like a fad and more like a way of life.
Kale could be a surprise entry this year. This green, leafy, nutrient-packed vegetable can be made into green smoothies and even turned into kale chips. Lacinato (dinosaur) kale is particularly good for its ease of use and softness, and if you’re making a salad, then nothing is better than light baby kale.
Chopped garlic is also a big health trend this year. Eating garlic is great, but actually chopping the garlic helps to release a sulphur-like compound called alliin and an enzyme called alliinase, which are normally inside the cell structures of the garlic. These two components form a new compound and can have various health benefits, such as increasing your immunity.