GO NUTS FOR WALNUTS
Next time you reach for a packet of biscuits at the supermarket go for a packet of nutrition-packed walnuts instead. The reason? Recent research[I] carried out at the New Orleans School of Medicine shows that as well as being good for heart health and cognitive function walnuts may also act as a prebiotic, boosting levels of good bacteria in the gut if eaten regularly.
B IS FOR BEETROOT
If you are looking for a healthy post-gym drink, beetroot juice may be the answer. Recent research[II] from the University of Northumbria found that it helped ease muscle soreness following 100 vigorous jump exercises in 30 men between the ages of 18 and 28, who worked out at least twice a week.
IN THE PINK
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month so show your support on Pink Friday, October 20th. Wear something pink and join up with colleagues, friends and family and eat pink food whilst raising money and awareness. For more ideas visit the wear it pink website
[I] Byerley LO, Samuelson D, Blanchard E 4th, Luo M, Lorenzen BN, Banks S, Ponder MA, Welsh DA, Taylor CM. Changes in the gut microbial communities following addition of walnuts to the diet. J Nutr Biochem. 2017 Oct;48:94-102. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2017.07.001. Epub 2017 Jul 9. PubMed PMID: 28797931.
[II] Clifford T, Howatson G, West DJ, Stevenson EJ. Beetroot juice is more beneficial than sodium nitrate for attenuating muscle pain after strenuous eccentric-bias exercise. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2017 Jul 18:1-7. doi: 10.1139/apnm-2017-0238. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 28719765.
