Food combinations to boost your health

The way nutrients are broken down, absorbed and utilised within the body is called 'bioavailability', and it is this bioavailability that is enhanced when certain foods are eaten together - making their nutritional benefits work more efficiently. Try the following food combos next time you need a boost:

Tomatoes + avocados = cancer-fighting combo

Tomatoes are rich in a cancer-preventing antioxidant called lycopene, a quality that makes tomatoes known as carotenoids in the nutritional world. Healthy fats, like those found in avocados, help to pick up carotenoids and disperse them around the body, making their cancer-preventing properties work more effectively. Try avocado and chopped tomatoes on toast for a nutritious breakfast or snack.

Sweet potato + coconut oil = skin-improving combo

Sweet potatoes are full of vitamin A, which is key for maintaining healthy hair and skin. The body absorbs vitamin A more readily when it is combined with a fat source such as coconut oil. Try cooking up some sweet potato chips using coconut oil for shiny hair and glowing skin.

Raspberries/apples + chocolate = heart-healthy combo

Apples, raspberries and chocolate all contain flavonoids, and when eaten together they can help improve cardiovascular health. Try chocolate covered raspberries or slices of apple and dark chocolate.

Almonds + yoghurt = bone-strengthening combo

Vitamins A, D and E are all fat soluble, which means they are activated and absorbed better when eaten with healthy fats - like those found in almonds. Yoghurt is an ideal source of vitamin D, which helps to strengthen bones, so by adding a handful of almonds into the mix you can boost your absorption of vitamin D.

Hard-boiled eggs + banana = energy-boosting combo

This combination makes for an ideal snack when your energy is dwindling. The healthy sugars from the banana will deliver a quick release of energy, while the protein and fats from the egg will keep sugar levels from spiking.