Maintaining a balanced diet with nutritious foods is essential for wellness and wellbeing. Eating healthy can be tasty and fun! Below are four exotic recipes derived from wholesome foods. Start getting creative with your recipes, exploring delicious foods that nourish the body.

 1. A Crunchy Treat High in Essential Fatty Acids:

Increasing Omega 3,6,9 in the diet has been shown in studies to improve mental alertness and lower cholesterol levels. Try an exotic fruit salad topped with Greek yogurt, granola, and flaxseeds. This delicious snack is high in protein, a good source of probiotics (good for the digestive system), contains fiber, and is also high in essential fatty acids. Try mixing in some pineapples, raspberries, mango, strawberries and blueberries rather than the plain old “apples and bananas”.   

 2. Energizing and Nutty Balance with a French twist:

A diet high in protein is important for wound healing and muscular health. Good sources of protein are not limited to meats and legumes. Peanut butter is an inexpensive and tasty alternative for a snack high in protein. Warm a toast of French bread in the oven. Then spread crunchy peanut butter, and top it with bananas, walnuts, and a drizzle of honey. The carbohydrates from the bread, bananas, and honey provide the energy boost, while the peanut butter and walnuts provide fats and protein that slow down the absorption of the carbohydrates. Slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates promotes stable blood sugar and prevents the peaks and falls with high sugar intake. This is a great morning snack, promoting energy throughout your daily activities.

 3. Irresistibly Organic:

Pesticides and chemical can be very harmful to your health. Whenever possible try choosing organic products, which are free from pesticides, preservatives, and additives. Here’s an inexpensive and healthy idea: Mix in a bag of organic Italian Salad in a large bowl, top it with tangerines, almonds, cranberries, and organic cheese. Lastly, toss in crotons and add your favorite organic dressing. This fresh and tasty treat is high in vitamins and minerals and low in pesticides and preservatives.

 4. Healthy Healing & Immune Boosting Antioxidants:

The properties of Vitamin C are numerous such as wound healing, increases iron absorption (when taken simultaneously), promotes healthy skin, and boosts immunity.  Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals, which are harmful substances to the body. Most fruits and vegetables are high in vitamin C. One of my favorite treats is “The Green Tea” smoothie with a shot of immune boosting Vitamin C.  Simply add 6 cups of soy milk (if preferred, substitute with low-fat milk), 2 spoons of green tea powder mix (used for smoothies), honey (sweeten to your liking), and liquid Vitamin C (follow the recommended nutritional intake). Lastly, add ice to the mix and start the blender. In seconds you have a refreshing smoothie packed with antioxidants, enhancing your immune system and increasing energy levels!

 *All suggestions should be discussed with your physician prior to incorporating them on your own. Some people require modified diets to meet their nutritional needs, or diets tailored for specific health conditions that are not incorporated in this article.