Wanderlust: Expat Life & Style in Thailand April / May 2017: Health & Wellness Issue | Page 14

Health & Wellness
COCONUT
If you were stuck on a desert island, you’d hope there
would be plenty of coconuts. Considered to be one of the
world’s only complete, natural meal replacements, coco-
nuts feature many edible parts, which each offer a valu-
able source of nutrients. From the thin, fibre-rich brown
skin, to the electrolyte-filled juice, and the iron and potas-
sium-packed meat, coconuts perks are plentiful. Research
suggests they can improve brain health, weight control,
hydration, the immune system, digestion, the absorption
of minerals, and cholesterol ratios.
HOT PEPPERS
Anyone who has ordered a spicy Thai dish has experi-
enced a burning sensation from intensely hot peppers.
But besides boosting flavor — and bringing tears to your
eyes — hot peppers raise metabolism, help cure joint
pain and assist in cardiovascular health.
WATERCRESS
Though it's often re-
garded as little more
than a sandwich gar-
nish, watercress is a
highly-studied plant
that has been found
to be a rich source of
nutrients that togeth-
er pack a powerful
punch against cancer.
Sometimes available
at salad bars inside
BKK grocery stores,
watercress — like cab-
bage — is one of the
most powerful super
foods we can eat and
should be a princi-
pal part of your daily
greens intake.
14 WANDERLUST
WHITE CABBAGE
Another veggie rich in sulforaphane is white cabbage.
Even as far back as ancient Rome were the benefits of
cabbage recognized, with Cato the Wise once stating:
“Cabbage eaten alone, or cooked with vinegar or fat,
cures all!” Not only is cabbage laden with flavonoids and
phenols — which have all demonstrated beneficial anti-
oxidant activity — it’s also one of the most economical
vegetables available. Each portion is as kind to your body
as it is your budget.
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