Elevate your plate: expert tricks to turn basic ingredients into superfoods

Incorporating soaked seeds into fruits can dramatically improve insulin sensitivity.

Incorporating soaked seeds into fruits can dramatically improve insulin sensitivity.

Image by: Arlind Photography

Published Apr 11, 2025

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In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy diet can often feel overwhelming.

With the numerous diets and health trends flying around, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos of what to eat.

Yet, what if we told you that the secret to transforming your mundane meals into superfoods lies within your very own kitchen?

Culinary experts suggest that through simple yet effective hacks, anyone can significantly enhance the nutritional value of everyday staples.

Renowned dietitian, Manpreet Kalra, shares her insights about food pairings that not only elevate the taste of meals but also optimise their health benefits.

According to Kalra, the right combinations can make a remarkable difference in nutrient absorption, digestion, and overall health.

If you’re looking to enhance your dietary choices, here are some powerful pairings that can do wonders for your body:

Turmeric with black pepper

Turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties due to curcumin.

However, the body absorbs curcumin poorly on its own. When paired with black pepper, which contains piperine, turmeric's absorption rates soar. 

This dynamic duo not only fights inflammation but also supports extensive health improvements. 

Jaggery and ghee

As a natural sweetener abundant in minerals, jaggery paired with ghee - known for its beneficial fats - creates a delightful synergy.

This combination is especially effective in improving digestion and relieving constipation. It also introduces a touch of natural sweetness to your meals. 

Green tea and cinnamon

Green tea is packed with catechins, antioxidants pivotal for heart health. However, these antioxidants often fail to be successfully retained.

By pairing green tea with cinnamon, you not only enhance catechin absorption but also introduce additional anti-inflammatory properties.

Incorporating soaked seeds into fruits can dramatically improve insulin sensitivity.

Olive oil on salads

Many essential vitamins, including A, D, E, and K, are fat-soluble, meaning they need healthy fats for proper absorption.

A drizzle of olive oil on your salads is not just tasty - it ensures that your body absorbs these vital nutrients, promoting better skin, eye health, and overall well-being. 

Millet roti and ghee

Rich in fibre and essential minerals, millets paired with ghee can support gut health and provide sustained energy.

This combination is incredibly beneficial for boosting immunity, making it a key player in a balanced diet.

Roasted jeera and mint in buttermilk

Buttermilk is a natural probiotic that supports gut health.

Enhancing it with roasted jeera and mint not only brings a cooling effect but also provides necessary digestive support, particularly refreshing during the summer months.

Soaked seeds on fruits

Incorporating soaked seeds like chia, flaxseed, and sunflower seeds into fruits can dramatically improve insulin sensitivity.

This combination is not only nutritious but also provides a slow release of energy, making it an ideal snack for maintaining balanced blood sugar levels.

With these simple yet effective food pairings, you have the opportunity to turn your kitchen staples into powerful allies for your health.

As we embrace the importance of nutrition, it’s time to make deliberate choices that positively impact our well-being.