A balanced diet is not only about taking advantage of a variety of nutrients from different food groups, but also about consuming them in combinations that maximize absorption and effectiveness. You should give preference to foods that complement each other and increase the overall benefits of your diet, rather than food combinations that focus solely on taste or may even be harmful to your body. Ayurvedic ancient medicine also recommends food combinations that enhance palatability, digestion, and absorption. In Ayurveda, grains can be eaten with vegetables, pulses, or yogurt, and the nutritional benefits of milk can be enhanced by soaked raisins, dates, ghee, turmeric, saffron, cardamom, and ginger. Leafy greens and salads are recommended to be eaten with meat, while raw fruits are best eaten alone or with other fruits of the same type. (Also read: 9 foods that should not be combined with milk according to Ayurveda)
Modern food combinations often go against Ayurvedic principles. Combining salty foods with tea, legumes with eggs, milk, and sour fruits can cause health problems.
For overall health and wellness, food combinations that go well together and enhance each other's benefits must be prioritized.
In her recent Instagram post, nutritionist Apurva Agarwal shares the food combinations that you should eat together to boost your overall health.
1. Tomato and avocado
If you're making a sandwich, pizza, or salad, be sure to combine these two ingredients to enhance not only the taste but also the nutrition of your meal. “The monosaturated fat in avocados makes the cancer-fighting lycopene in tomatoes four times more potent,” says Apurvar.
2. Apple and dark chocolate
Apples and dark chocolate are a fascinating combination that allows you to create a variety of recipes. Make a mixture by melting dark chocolate and coconut oil together, then dip the apple slices in it and bake. “The heart-healthy anti-inflammatory compounds found in apples and the powerful antioxidants found in dark chocolate fight blood clots, improve circulation and reduce the chance of heart disease,” says the nutritionist. .
3. Green tea and lemon
Adding a little lemon to green tea doubles its effectiveness. It is a combination of foods that is convenient and can be expected to absorb nutrients more effectively. “Adding lemon to a cup of green tea helps your body more effectively absorb the catechins from green tea, which are responsible for most of green tea's health benefits.”
4. Chickpeas and beets
Enjoy a refreshing salad with chickpeas and beets or add them to soups for double the nutritional benefits. This great combination helps the body absorb more nutrients. “Chickpeas are rich in vitamin B6, a vitamin that helps your body absorb magnesium-rich foods such as beets,” says Apurva.
