Spring is here and it’s time to dust off those winter cobwebs and embrace the fresh beginnings that this new season brings. Fling open the windows and feel the sun's warm rays caress your skin. Enjoy the gentle warm breezes that carry the delicate scents of blossoming flowers and freshly cut grass, as you shed the heavy layers of winter and step into all of the lightness and brightness that spring has to offer.

I’m sure you’ll agree that there is a renewed sense of energy and optimism when spring rolls around. It’s a wonderful season to clear out the clutter, both physically and mentally, and create space for new ideas and inspiration to blossom. Springtime is the perfect time to embark on new adventures and embrace the joys of outdoor activities too. Why not pull that old bicycle out from the shed, or lace up your hiking boots, and embark on an adventure, discovering hidden wildflower lined trails, whilst immersing yourself in the natural beauty all around you?

But there’s another element to spring that’s not only about the external transformation; it's also an invitation for your insides to have a fresh new beginning in the shape of an internal cleanse, to give you that nudge to feel rejuvenated and renewed and offer you back all that energy and vitality you may have been missing during the hibernation period of winter.

Today, I'm here to introduce you to a recipe that is not only nourishing but perfect for a springtime cleanse. Allow me to introduce you to my Supercharged Kitchari.

Kitchari is a fantastic dish that is both soothing and easy to digest. It's like a warm hug for your tummy. The best part? It's super easy to prepare, and you can make a big batch to have on hand for quick and satisfying meals. Convenience at its finest, so you can spend more time enjoying nature and the joys of springtime.

So why is a Kitchari cleanse good for you?

Firstly for nourishment and digestive ease. Kitchari is a gentle and nourishing dish that combines rice and mung beans. It’s easy to digest, making it a perfect option for a digestive system break. During the cleanse, kitchari provides essential nutrients, such as protein, fibre, and vitamins, whilst being very gentle on your stomach. It helps reset your digestion and promotes efficient nutrient absorption.

Secondly, it’s beneficial for detoxification and cleansing. Kitchari is thought to support the body's natural detoxification processes. The combination of rice and mung beans is believed to have a detoxifying effect, helping to flush out the junk from your trunk. The spices like ginger, turmeric, and cumin used in kitchari also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, further supporting the cleansing process.

This meal is also balanced and satisfying. Kitchari is a well-balanced dish that provides a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. This balance helps keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevents energy crashes.

I love that kitchari's warm and comforting nature can help satisfy cravings and keep you feeling nourished throughout the cleanse too. One thing I should add is to ensure you are drinking enough water if you are doing a kitchari cleanse.

If you’re wondering how long to do it for, the duration of a kitchari cleanse can vary depending on individual preferences and goals. Generally, it can be done for a period of three to seven days. This time-frame allows your body to experience the benefits of the cleanse without putting excessive strain on your system.

A three-day cleanse is a good starting point for beginners or those who prefer a shorter reset. It provides a gentle detoxification and digestive rest while allowing you to experience the benefits of kitchari. I also love to add one teaspoon of my Love Your Gut powder or Love Your Gut capsules at the same time and finish the day with a teaspoon of Love Your Gut Synbiotic to further cleanse the gut and then repopulate it with lots of probiotics, helping your body further with digestion and adding important prebiotic fibre, digestive enzymes and dietary fibre. To supercharge your energy levels, add a few drops of Fulvic Humic Concentrate too. You can read more about my Love Your Gut products here.

For those looking for a deeper cleanse or more significant transformation, a seven-day cleanse may be suitable. This longer duration allows for a more thorough detoxification process and a chance to observe potential changes in energy levels, digestion, and overall well-being.

Ultimately, the duration of your kitchari cleanse should be based on your personal goals, health condition, and comfort level. It's essential to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed. If you have any concerns or specific health conditions, it's always advisable to consult with your healthcare professional before starting any cleanse or dietary changes too.

The addition of vegetables during the cleanse adds essential vitamins and minerals, promoting overall health. To supercharge my recipe, I simply warm 1 cup of the cooked mixture with 125 ml (4 fl oz/1/2 cup) water and add chopped vegetables to it, as it takes this kitchari to the next level and gives it a supercharge and a burst of flavour and nutrients with every spoonful. Who said cleansing had to be boring? Not me!

Have you ever done a kitchari cleanse?  Let me know in the comments below.

Supercharged Kitchari

Here's what you'll need:

Serves 4

• 200 g (7 oz/1 cup) brown basmati or brown rice, soaked for a minimum of one hour in water and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, then drained
• 225 g (8 oz/1 cup) mung beans (moong dal), soaked for a minimum of one hour in  water and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, then drained
• 2.5 cm (1 inch) piece of ginger, grated
• 2.5 cm (1 inch) piece of turmeric, grated or 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• pinch of asafoetida (optional)
• 1 tablespoon ghee
• 1 litre (35 fl oz/4 cups) filtered water
• Celtic sea salt, to taste

Method

In a large saucepan, combine all the ingredients. Bring it to a simmer, and let it cook until the grains and beans are tender, creating a symphony of flavours and aromas.

Once your kitchari is ready, you can store it in the fridge for easy access. Simply warm up a cup of the cooked mixture with some water, add your favourite veggies, and voila! A nourishing meal is just moments away.

It's time to nourish your body and embrace the freshness of the season. Happy cooking and happy cleansing!

Health-boosting supplements are excellent at ensuring your body, mind, and soul get the nourishment they need for a more fulfilling life. Even with a great diet full of healthy vegetables, energy-boosting fruits, and high-quality meat and protein, you can often lack one or two of the things you need. And these can change as you get older. There is no one solution to getting all the nutrients, but there are many you can use to your advantage for better health and vitality.

CBD and Hemp Products

Let's get the most controversial one out of the way first. CBD and hemp are widely used these days and are derivatives of marijuana, which is why they are controversial. However, there have been many studies into the positive effects of CBD products and legal medical cannabis for issues such as chronic pain, depression, and anxiety. CBD isn't for everyone, but there are millions of people who swear by it for making them feel less stressed about life and health.

Good Multivitamin Blends

There are essential vitamins that you need each day, and you may not get them through your diet. These include some of the most important for organ, brain, and physical health. You may even be naturally deficient in one or two of these. So a good multivitamin blend includes these:

• Vitamin D reduces the chances of getting ill, reduces back pain, and strengthens bones.
• Magnesium eases period pains, helps the nervous system, and helps blood sugar.
• Iron for improved brain function, red blood cell production, and getting more energy.
• Vitamin B compounds help digestion, making DNA and help you to achieve better focus.
• Zinc can help build a strong immune system and aid with your general metabolism.

These are the most vital for daily life. Getting enough of the above vitamins and minerals will help you achieve your daily goals by increasing energy, removing brain fog, and making you feel generally much better all around. It is vital to not rely on multivitamins and focus on health.

Flavonol-Packed Black Elderberry

Flavonols are molecules that have all kinds of benefits. Some of the most crucial are anti-inflammatory properties that can help with common ailments such as colds and flu. This is because they soothe aches and pains, reduce congestion, and bring down a fever. The best source of flavanols is black elderberry extract, which you can get at any pharmacy or health store. You can also take it daily as a well-known preventative measure against cold and flu.

Ancient Adaptogenic Ashwagandha

There is some controversy around ashwagandha because it can be dangerous for some people, works wonders for others, and then there are people who see no benefit at all. Ashwagandha is adaptogenic, which means it helps your body manage stress responses and can help restore you to a calmer state. Many herbs are adaptogens, and you can use ashwagandha daily in tablet form. You should avoid these if you are pregnant, diabetic, or have stomach ulcers.

Asian Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms contain flavonoids like elderberry. Not just delicious in Asian dishes, they also come with many healthy benefits such as high protein, digestive enzymes, and prebiotics. Prebiotics are the organisms that probiotics feed on. So, you need a steady supply of these to ensure the probiotics in your gut are well-fed. Shiitake mushrooms have also been noted to help reduce anxiety and depression by lowering the active levels of cortisol in your hormonal system.

Supplements for Tired Eyes

With so many devices to use, air pollution, and the general stress of everyday work and life, our eyes get much more tired than we think they do. Strained eyes can cause all kinds of issues, including vision problems, insomnia, and headaches. Try these supplements for eye care:

• Vitamin A can help keep your corneas clear and prevent night blindness.
• Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps reduce age-related eye disease.
• Collagen is produced by vitamin C, which will help strengthen your eye structure.
• B vitamins help reduce eye inflammation caused by age-related eye issues.
• Riboflavin reduces oxidative stress, and a deficiency is linked to cataracts.
• You can help prevent glaucoma by eating foods rich in niacin, like fish and nuts.
• Lutein helps reduce the stress and strain on your eyes from blue light radiation.

Eye care is essential for helping you feel generally better about your health. The great news is that many of the essential vitamins and minerals for good eye health are found in most of the nutritious foods you probably already eat daily. A balanced and healthy diet goes a long way.

Strengthening the Immune System

As a younger person, your immune system is usually very strong and gets weaker as you get older. This means that even a UTI can be troublesome. However, it doesn't have to be this way, and you can maintain a strong immune system your entire life with the right nutrients. Herbs and supplements such as Eleutherococcus, Maitake mushrooms, and green tea are very easy ways to boost your overall immune system in addition to eating a diet like the Mediterranean diet.

Age-Related Support

Aching joints and bones are among the most common complaints as you get older. This is because the cartilage (which acts like a natural lubricant between bones) can wear down and cause your bones to rub against each other. This is more commonly known as arthritis. Yet you can help prevent this common issue with some simple supplements. Supplements and foods that contain curcumin, such as turmeric and black pepper, are known to help with this issue.

Getting Enough Fibre

Not getting enough fiber in your diet can make you miserable. Fiber is essential for digestion and can make passing solids a breeze, which will help you as you age. But it can also help prevent serious issues such as IBS and some other embarrassing toilet problems. Unfortunately, there are no meats that contain fiber. But the good news is fiber is found in many of the most wonderful foods, such as fruits like apples, delicious nuts, and fresh herbs. 

Gut Health products

Your gut can accumulate and store 500g to 3 kilos of waste! This has many negative effects like limiting the gut linings ability to absorb nutrients and hydration. Cleaning your gut should be a constant in your daily life, just like brushing your teeth.

Cleaning your gut is the core job of the Supercharged Food Love Your Gut diatomaceous earth powder and capsules. It’s a gentle, gentle natural gut cleanse.

For a deep clean,  as a clinical nutritionist, I recommends Love Your Gut Fulvic Humic concentrate drops. They are a liquid mineral food that helps clear the hard to get to tight junctures of the digestive system.

Health Boosting Supplements Include Probiotics

As some doctors will tell you, a good immune system always starts with what's in your gut. However, most people overlook the importance of probiotics in their diet, and some aren't even aware of them. Probiotics are little gut cleansers that help your overall internal stomach, digestion, and colon health. Made up of bacteria, they have also been shown to help improve breathing issues and heart health and can even help in the fight against seasonal allergies. 

For repopulating the gut my Love Your gut Synbiotic is key. It contains prebiotics, probiotics, digestive enzymes and dietary fibre.

Honey Health Boosting Supplements

Honey is a wonderful ingredient that can make anything taste better because it is a natural sugar. However, not all honey is made the same, and there are some studies that have found that almost half of honey products are fake imposters of standard sugar syrups. This means they aren't good for you. However, there are some brands and honey products that are. Manuka honey, for example, is a powerful antioxidant that can help with ulcers, IBS, and tooth decay.

Omega-3 and Essential Fish Oils

Omega-3 is a wonderful substance that has many benefits, some of which are being taken very seriously for age-related health issues. For example, some now believe, based on studies, that high amounts of Omega-3 can help with Alzheimer's disease. Here's how you can get more:

• Expand your culinary skills to include eating more oily fish, such as salmon.
• Eat more eggs such as for breakfast each morning as they are rich in Omega-3.
• Have a handful of nuts, especially walnuts, instead of reaching for a sugary snack.
• Take cod liver oil capsules daily to ensure you always get a good dose of Omega-3.
• Certain seeds, such as basil and flax seeds, are a great way to boost Omega-3.

Omega-3 fatty acids are a great way to help your body's cells function the way they are meant to. And this also includes the cells in your brain. Poor skin, hair, and nails could indicate you aren't getting enough Omega-3, and for women, this also includes having a difficult period.

An Antioxidant-Rich Diet

Antioxidants are vital for targeting free radicals. These are unstable atoms that can build up in your body and damage your cells. This is known as oxidative stress and is commonly caused by things that are bad for us. This includes high GI foods, too much alcohol, and smoking. Fortunately, it is pretty easy to get more antioxidants in your system, and some are even the best to eat, such as blueberries, tomatoes, and dark chocolate, so there's your excuse, yay!

Summary

CBD and hemp products help you alleviate some aging issues alongside well-established health-boosting supplements. These include the usual suspects, such as vitamins B, C, and D, as well as iron, magnesium, and others. Yet for overall improved health and wellness, you can also include adaptogens from foods like elderberries and shiitake mushrooms for fighting off common cold and flu symptoms. You can boost your health with Omega-3 and antioxidants.

If you’ve got a bone to pick with bone broth, I understand. While I personally love bone broth and found it essential in my gut-healing journey, I know to others, it can sound a little, unappetising. 

If that’s you, I get it, but I would love to have the opportunity to change your mind. 

What is Bone Broth?

Before we start, bone broth is vastly different from the packaged chicken stock you may have used to make soup. Bone broth is made by simmering the bones and connective tissue of animals. It’s a nutrient-dense stock that forms the backbone of many a soup and sauce but can also be drunk on its own. You can make bone broth out of practically any animal – including chicken, beef, fish, buffalo or lamb. 

My De-fishious Fish Broth!

I’d love to share with you ten reasons why I think that bone broth is super healthy and why you might like to include it in your diet. By the way, if you are vegan or vegetarian, then homemade vegetable stocks are delicious and nutritious for you too.

The first reason I’d like to point out is that it’s mineral-rich.

If minerals and vitamins were dollars, bone broth would be rich! Bone broth contains protein, collagen, calcium, selenium, fatty acids, magnesium, potassium, manganese, zinc, iron, and vitamin A and K.  This provides your body with essential nutrients, in an easy to eat and very easy to digest format.

2. Our gut loves it.

Bone broth has been used for centuries as a digestive tonic, helping heal and seal the digestive tract’s lining while reducing inflammation in the gut. An amino acid called glutamine found in bone broth helps maintain the intestinal wall's function and prevents a leaky gut. Emerging research suggests that glutamine, along with other amino acids found in bone broth, may benefit people with irritable bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome. 

If you’re looking for further gut support, I recommend Love Your Gut Powder. It helps remove the build-up of mucus, acid, plaque and bacteria in the gut to improve nutrient absorption and reduce digestive symptoms. If you’re looking to support your gut while on the move, why not try them in capsule form here?

3. It’s an inflammation fighter. 

Bone broth contains the anti-inflammatory amino acids glycine and arginine. Why does this matter? Well, chronic inflammation can lead to a whole host of diseases, including arthritis and cardiovascular disease; this is why it’s crucial to eat a highly anti-inflammatory diet and why I’m team bone broth. If you want to learn more about inflammation, click here.

4. It’s excellent for the health of our joints. 

Cartilage in the joints shrink and wear down with overuse, which can cause damage, pain and atrophy. Luckily, research indicates that collagen consumption can improve joint health and decrease knee pain and stiffness in people with osteoarthritis.

Bone broth also contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which support cartilage production. 

5. It can improve our brain function.

Bone broth can be extremely beneficial for our nervous system. The healthy fats within bone broth provide a source of fuel for the brain. Plus, bone broth is rich in calcium which is crucial for nerve health.

6. Hello, glowing skin. 

Collagen is blowing up in the beauty industry, and with good reason. Collagen is a significant component of the skin, helping keep skin wrinkle-free, plump and glowing. Unfortunately, as we age, our collagen production rate declines, so it’s crucial to replenish it through the diet to help slow skin aging and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. 

7. It supports the immune system.

The small intestine acts as the first line of defence for our immune system. If the gut barrier becomes leaky, this can disrupt immune system function. We know that bone broth is protective for our gut, so it’s also a massive supporter of the immune system. 

8. It can assist with weight loss and weight maintenance.

I know it’s not all about ‘calories in’ and ‘calories out’, but if you are looking for low-calorie options to support a healthy weight, bone broth is an excellent option. Bone broth is full of protein which can increase satiation while being low-calorie which is ideal for the waistline. 

9. It can act as a sleep aid.

Glycine, naturally found in bone broth, may increase relaxation and promote sleep. Studies have shown that those who took glycine before bed fell asleep faster, maintained a deeper sleep and woke fewer times throughout the night. Glycine reduces daytime sleepiness, improves mental function and memory. Sign me up.

10. It’s a bone protector and supporter. 

Our bones are made mostly of collagen, which supports their structure and keeps them strong. Collagen consumption can increase bone mineral density and stimulate bone growth. Bone broth is also rich in calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, which creates and maintains healthy bones.  

And that’s it! Bone broth is here to heal your gut, support your brain health and warm up your insides. What more could you want?

Beef Pho Bone Broth

S E R V E S 4 

Bone broth is all the rage at the moment, but you can enjoy the gelatinous benefits of this age-old tonic in a variety of delicious ways. This particular twist will whisk you away to the streets of northern Vietnam, where pho originated in the early 20th century. It was initially sold at dawn and dusk by roaming street vendors shouldering mobile kitchens. The garnish of lime and bean sprouts is a modern variation on this traditional healing broth. 

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 kg (2 lb 4 oz) beef bones (shin, knuckles, marrow and gelatinous cuts are good)
• 2 litres (68 fl oz/8 cups) filtered water, plus extra as needed
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• pinch of sea salt
• 6 star anise
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 cardamom pods
• 2 teaspoons coriander seeds
• 2 teaspoons fennel seeds
• 3 cloves
• 1 brown onion, halved and sliced
• 1 × 7.5 cm (3 inches) piece fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon wheat-free tamari
• 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) beef (e.g. sirloin), thinly sliced
• 3 zucchini (courgettes), spiralised 

To serve

• handful bean sprouts, trimmed
• handful mixed basil, mint and coriander (cilantro) leaves
• 2 limes, cut into wedges

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Heat a large flameproof casserole dish over medium heat and melt the coconut oil. Add the bones and stir to coat. Cover and transfer the casserole dish to the oven for 30 minutes or until the bones are browned. 

3. Return the dish to the stovetop and add the water, vinegar and salt. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat to as low as possible and simmer, covered, for 11/2 hours, adding a little more water from time to time if necessary. 

4. Carefully remove the bones using tongs and discard. Allow the broth to cool, then skim any unwanted fat off the top, setting it aside. 

5. Heat a heavy-based frying pan over medium heat and toast the spices for 2 minutes or until fragrant. Move the spices to the side of the pan, add some of the reserved broth fat, then sauté the onion and ginger until the onion is translucent. Transfer to the casserole dish with the stock, then add the tamari and beef.

6. Return to a gentle boil over medium heat on the stovetop, then reduce the heat to low, add the zucchini noodles and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente. 

7. Ladle into bowls, top with the bean sprouts, garnish with the herbs and serve with the lime wedges. 

SUPERCHARGED TIP

If you have a slow cooker, it’s perfect for this pho. If you prefer your noodles crunchier and your beef rare, you can put the noodles and beef into the bowls then pour over the hot broth.

While there is so much joy in growing homegrown vegetables right in your garden, there are a few things that can get fairly stressful. Just think about it; you have to deal with constant fluctuations in temperature, the weather is fairly unpredictable, and worst of all, you’re going to have to deal with pests. Yes, while you can have some protection for your plants when it comes to high temperatures, low temperatures, and the weather, you’re out there battling it out with so many different types of pests that it makes it feel next to impossible to win, right?  Fortunately, there are a few things you can do, so keep reading on to find out!

Start By Identifying the Infestation

As you walk through the garden, look for signs of pest damage. Holes, wilting, skeletonized leaves (veins exposed), and mangled growth are indications that you need to take action. Also, watch for disease transmission from bugs to plants. Identify pests by their physical appearance, feeding behavior, and target plant species. The pests most commonly found in gardens fall into seven insect groups or orders. Each order has its own characteristic plant damage. For the most part, you can count on each species to have a different pest control method. 

Remove Any Damaged Leaves or Stalks

You might be thinking, “The plants look a little bad, but it’s only natural; there isn’t that much harm,” right? Well, for the most part, pests aren’t only ruining the aesthetics of your garden/ plants, but they are also damaging your plants. Many damaging pests also transmit pathogens that lead to disease in the plants they chew or eat. This is why it is so important to remove all damaged plant parts because your entire plant might just get destroyed, and this could even spread to neighboring plants. Overall, it’d be a negative experience. 

Try to Monitor Your Garden Regularly

Is it an infestation, or is this just something that’s temporary? It can be hard to determine, but there’s always the chance that some pests are temporarily on a plant, while other times, they’re full-on infesting it to the point hundreds are covering the leaves and stem. Regular monitoring of the garden will allow you to detect pest problems quickly and catch them before they get out of hand. Overall, having a garden checklist will help you out a lot. 

Inspect plants at least twice a week, looking under leaves and on the stems. Record your observations in a garden log or on a small notebook dedicated to gardening notes, especially regarding plant damage and pests. Keep in mind that there is no way to eliminate all pests. In fact, in small numbers, some are necessary for a healthy, self-regulating ecosystem.

Understand That Pest Prevention Varies

When it comes to pest control, it’s good to understand that it varies. How you prevent snails from getting into your garden isn’t going to be the same as how you prevent caterpillars. It’s all going to be entirely different. The same even goes for organic pesticides versus more chemical-based pesticides. It’s all going to vary, so you’re going to have to figure out which is your preference and what you want for your garden. 

Taking care of your eyes is essential for maintaining optimal vision and overall well-being. Yet, over 13 million people in Australia have one or more chronic eye condition/s, according to the Department of Health and Aged Care. Around 90% of blindness and vision impairment cases in Australia are preventable or treatable if detected early, and government initiatives have since included collaborations with WHO to achieve effective coverage of refractive errors and cataract surgery by 2030.

While government initiatives are important, individual efforts are non-negotiable to boost and preserve your eye health. In this article, we will explore five habits that you can implement in your daily life for healthier eyes.

Practise regular eye examinations

Regular eye examinations are vital for maintaining good eye health and detecting any potential issues early on. Yet, Optometry Australia has found that 35% of people do not get regular eye checks. Eye examinations not only assess vision but also help identify underlying eye conditions such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy. Hence, adults are recommended to take a comprehensive eye examination every two years or more frequently as advised by an optometrist.

Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays

The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) outlines that exposure to UV levels is consistently higher in Australia due to the country’s proximity to the equator. To protect your eyes, the ARPANSA recommends selecting local sunglasses that comply with the Australian/New Zealand Standard for UV protection or AS/NZS 1067. Otherwise, sunglasses with polarised lenses are a must to reduce glare from reflective surfaces. Models such as the M Frame 2.0 from Oakley with its Prizm lens technology can comply with other Australian standards, such as the AS/NZS 1337 for occupational eye protectors for outdoor workers.

Take regular screen breaks

Excessive screen use can strain the eyes and contribute to symptoms such as dryness, eye fatigue, and blurred vision. The Australian Digital Health Agency recommends practising the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away to reduce eye strain. When you have to look at the screen, you can opt to wear eye protectors such as blue-light glasses. While there’s no high-level evidence to support wearing blue-light blocking glasses for vision protection, the blue-light filter can help influence your circadian rhythm and lead to better sleep that rests your eyes.

Maintain a healthy diet

Consuming foods rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and lutein/zeaxanthin can help protect against age-related eye conditions such as macular degeneration and cataracts. For a quick tip, look for orange vegetables that are rich in beta-carotene and vital for eye health, such as carrots and pumpkins. Otherwise, the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating recommends incorporating fresh fruits, vegetables, oily fish, nuts, and seeds into your diet.

Stay hydrated

Dehydration can lead to dry eyes, causing discomfort, headaches, and blurred vision. In Australia's often hot and dry climate, it's important to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Otherwise, you can also use a humidifier in your home during the winter to keep the air moist, and stay away from cigarette smoke, which tends to dry out your eyes.

By adopting these five habits, you can significantly boost and preserve your eye health. For more healthy tips, check out our other blogs on Supercharged Food and improve the quality of your life today.

Liquid Gold

Picture this: an ancient Greek philosopher wandering around, plucking olives from trees, and pondering the secrets hidden within those little green orbs. Fast forward to the present, and we're still obsessed with olives - particularly the golden nectar they produce: olive oil.

Today, we're going to dive into the glorious world of olive oil. That's right, that golden elixir that has been cherished by civilizations throughout history. Not only does it add flavour and depth to our dishes, but good quality olive oil also comes with a plethora of health benefits. So, grab your spatula and prepare for an adventure as we explore the importance of this liquid gold!

Quality Matters

Let's face it, not all olive oils are created equal. Just like choosing a life partner or your favourite pair of socks, selecting the right olive oil is crucial. Good quality olive oil is like finding a unicorn that makes your taste buds dance with joy. Look for extra virgin olive oil, as it undergoes minimal processing and retains more of the natural flavours and nutrients.

A Heart-Healthy Ally

One of the key reasons for the importance of olive oil lies in its heart-healthy properties. Unlike unhealthy saturated and trans fats, olive oil is predominantly composed of monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels while increasing the levels of good cholesterol. Regular consumption of olive oil has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, making it an essential ingredient for maintaining cardiovascular health.

The Riches of Antioxidants

Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin E and phenolic compounds. These antioxidants play a vital role in neutralising free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can damage cells and contribute to various diseases and age related conditions. Including olive oil in your diet can bolster your body's defence against oxidative stress and support overall health.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Chronic inflammation has been linked to numerous health issues, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The phenolic compounds found in olive oil possess potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat inflammation in the body. Regular consumption of olive oil may contribute to reducing the risk of chronic inflammatory conditions and promoting a healthier, more balanced immune system.

Nutrient Absorption and Digestive Health

Olive oil has a unique ability to enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as various phytochemicals. Including a drizzle of olive oil on your salads or cooked vegetables can help maximize the nutritional benefits of your meals. The other good news is that the healthy fats in olive oil can aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut, supporting optimal nutrient uptake and overall digestive well-being.

Culinary Versatility

Aside from its health benefits, olive oil's culinary versatility is a testament to its importance in the kitchen. Whether used for sautéing, roasting, dressing, or dipping, olive oil adds depth, flavour, and richness to a wide array of dishes. Its distinctive taste profile, ranging from mild and buttery to robust and peppery, complements both savoury and sweet creations, making it a cherished ingredient in cuisines worldwide.

So, the next time you drizzle that golden goodness over your salad or savour the aroma as it dances in the pan, remember that olive oil is not just a condiment—it's a gift from nature that nourishes both body and soul.

Now, go forth and drizzle, cook, and savour the wonders of good quality olive oil. Your taste buds and health will thank you.

Need a yummy recipe?

It’s time to grab that bottle of olive oil, whip up a simple pasta dish, and let the flavours take you to an Italian odyssey. Let's talk about the simple yet soul-satisfying dish of spaghetti aglio e olio, which basically means olive oil spaghetti. It's the culinary equivalent of a warm hug from Nonna.

With just a few ingredients like garlic, chilli flakes, and a generous pour of good quality olive oil, you can create a dish that dances on your taste buds. Plus, it's a quick and easy option for those busy days when you need a meal faster than your delivery app can say “arrivederci.” This recipe has the added crunch of almonds too!

Spaghetti with Olive Oil, Garlic and Roasted Almonds

Ingredients:

• 225g angel hair spaghetti (or use gluten free spaghetti of choice)
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon chilli flakes
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 bunch chopped fresh parsley or basil
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or use nutritional yeast flakes for dairy free)
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped almonds

Method:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked spaghetti and set it aside.

While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chilli flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add the cooked and drained spaghetti with the garlic and oil. Toss the spaghetti gently to coat it evenly with the oil and garlic mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to toss for another minute or two until the spaghetti is well coated and heated through.

Remove the frying pan from the heat and sprinkle the chopped almonds and fresh parsley over the spaghetti. Toss again to distribute the almonds and parsley evenly.

Transfer the angel hair spaghetti to serving plates or a large platter. Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast flakes) on top.

Enjoy your delicious Spaghetti with Olive Oil, Garlic and Roasted Almonds and let me know what you think in the comments section below.