7 Food Staples From Around the World That Promote Wellness

A century-old Japanese favorite, miso presents an iconic dish. While this fermented soybean paste adds depth and flavor to soups and sauces, its purpose goes beyond the taste buds. 

Miso’s probiotic benefits help promote overall digestive wellness, according to Web MD. It also can alleviate hot flush symptoms of women going through menopause. You won't want to skip out on tasting miso soup this winter season.

Imagine yourself basking under the Mediterranean sun as you indulge in bread dipped in olive oil, one of Greece's heart-healthy riches. Packed full of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil supports cardiovascular health, according to the British Heart Foundation.To reap these heart-boosting benefits, drizzle onto salads, saute your favorite dishes, or simply dunk crusty bread for an exquisite Mediterranean appetizer. 

Explore turmeric, one of India's most sacred wellness resources. As a natural spice in Ayurveda, turmeric is derived from the root of an Asian plant and provides abundant health benefits, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Its active compound, curcumin, may act as an excellent detoxifier and inflammation fighter. Incorporate this powerful ingredient into curries for extra spice, blend with smoothies, and even add to your morning oatmeal for a super healthy breakfast.

Mexico's avocados are a dream come true for health-conscious eaters everywhere. 

These green fruits are packed full of heart-healthy fats, fiber, and an assortment of essential nutrients, according to BBC Good Food. They are also rich in vitamin E, and could help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. 

What’s not to love? Whether it's guacamole, toast, or salad topping, avocados are irresistibly delicious and nutritious. 

Quinoa, a psuedocereal, dates back to 3,000-4,000 years in South America's Andean region, according to Healthline.  During this time, it held great cultural importance among Incans, who considered quinoa the “mother of all grains”. It stands out as a nutritional powerhouse due to its 18 percent  protein content and complete amino acid profile. 

If you’re looking for a grain alternative that is gluten-free and easy to digest, then quinoa is a must for your kitchen cupboard! Additionally, it's rich in fiber, magnesium, and iron, a true all-rounder! Replace your regular grains with this one for complete protein sources and essential amino acids. It’s perfect as the basis for salads, stir-fries, and even stuffing bell peppers.

As an essential wellness staple in Malaysia, coconut milk offers numerous health advantages, as Medical News Today reports. Going beyond nutritional perks, coconut milk provides flavor-enhancing benefits for sweet and savory recipes. Its antioxidative stress-protection abilities help to protect against diseases.

Coconut milk's lauric acid-rich content contains antimicrobial qualities that may boost immune health, making it even more useful as a plant-based dietary source. However, it’s worth staying mindful of its saturated fat content to ensure cardiovascular well-being.

Acai, an iconic wellness food from Brazil's Amazon rainforest, provides an array of health advantages, according to Healthline. People worldwide celebrate these deep purple berries for their antioxidant properties that combat oxidative stress and promote overall cellular wellbeing. The berry’s essential dietary components, such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber, helps to support digestion, immunity, and sustained energy levels. Its heart-health-promoting properties make it a superfood that people around the globe enjoy as a refreshing bowl or smoothie.

Symbolic of well-being, this Brazilian gem combines taste with health. Simply blend the acai berries before topping with fruit, nuts, or seeds for delicious drinks packed with an impressive nutritional punch.

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