White Bean Salad with Avocado and Dill

Tasty recipes that contain specific fats, spices, herbs and proteins that align with modified Mediterranean diet patterns that may improve brain health and cognition.

This recipe is good for brain health because it:

• Contains 3+ fruit and vegetable portions
• Contains no processed ingredients
• Has less than 10g of added sugar
• Has more than 10g of fibre
• Has no more than 75g of meat

It also has other benefits because it:

• Contains brassicas
• Is a source of vitamin C

Recipes that align with Mediterranean diet principles to reduce inflammation and increase specific micronutrients that support a healthy heart.

This recipe is good for heart health because it:

• Contains 3+ fruit and vegetable portions
• Contains no processed ingredients
• Has less than 10g of added sugar
• Has more than 10g of fibre
• Has no more than 75g of meat

It also has other benefits because it:

• Contains legumes
• Contains olive oil

They are packed with essential nutrients, fibre and phytochemicals that help lower inflammation, improve cholesterol levels and protect against DNA damage. Eating 800g or 10 portions every day is tied to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke and early death. 🥦🍎

They are plant pigments that give fruits and vegetables vibrant colours. Eating more carotenoids is linked to the prevention of chronic diseases including heart diseases, vision problems and certain types of cancer.

Keeping added sugars as low as possible can improve sleep and energy levels. Over time, lower sugar intake (under 25g a day) is tied to a lower risk of depression, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity.🍬

They add polyphenols with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that could help lower the risk of chronic diseases. Each spice adds ¼ plant point, which increases diet variety and supports a healthy gut microbiome. 🌱

Vitamin C helps the immune system work properly, acts as a potent antioxidant and helps produce collagen. Pairing vitamin C-rich foods like citrus, peppers, and kiwifruit with leafy greens or legumes can help the body absorb plant-based iron. 🤝

Regular consumption of grapefruit juice by middle-aged, healthy postmenopausal women was beneficial for arterial stiffness. The authors suggested that this effect may be related to flavanones present in citrus.

These vegetables provide 'glucosinolates', which increase the body’s detoxification enzymes and antioxidant defences. Eating brassicas regularly (~100g/day) may lower cancer and depression risk, and help remove pollutants. 🥦