126 health nut recipes

The health benefits of green papaya exceed those of the ripe variety. Raw green papaya is packed with vitamins, enzymes and phytonutrients. It contains vital nutrients including potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, E and B. However, perhaps the most important health property of green papaya is its ability to improve digestion and the uptake of nutrients, raising enzyme levels and improving assimilation, and thus also strengthening the immune system. Green papaya contains two of the most powerful plant proteolytic enzymes: papain and chymopapain. These enzymes excel at breaking down proteins, fats and carbohydrates, as well as aiding healthy digestion. Papain can only be found in the papaya fruit and is more effective than pepsin produced by our own stomachs.

Bircher muesli was first developed by a Swiss physician, Maximilian Bircher-Benner as part of the therapy he prescribed for his patients. Often called simply ‘overnight oats’ Bircher muesli is an ideal breakfast food – it can be assembled the night before, left in the fridge overnight and enjoyed in the morning – there is no cooking required. It's also a perfect combination of plant-based protein, slow-release wholegrain carbohydrates, and essential fats. The version below calls for pears and coconut, but alternative combinations are provided in the notes.

Inflammation is a major cause of heart-disease. Together with the oxidation of LDL ('bad' cholesterol) it often leads to the clogged arteries that result in heart failure. Fight inflammation with ginger. Apples contain antioxidants that have been shown to specifically fight the oxidation of LDL.

Very refreshing juice made purely of green fruit and vegetables! Serve with ice for a refreshing drink loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants.

This is a very simple recipe for roast chicken. Serve with roast vegetables and/or salad. If you opt for grains, choose whole grains such as brown rice instead of white, or mix brown and white rice together to increase the fiber content.

Low in fat, butternut squash contains significant amounts of dietary fiber, making it an exceptionally heart-friendly choice. It also contains potassium, important for bone health, and vitamin B6, essential for the proper functioning of both the nervous and immune systems. Importantly, the squash is very rich in beta-carotene (which your body automatically converts to vitamin A), which has been shown to protect against breast cancer and age-related macular degeneration, among other health benefits. If that was not enough, a single cup serving provides nearly 50% of the daily recommended dose of vitamin C.

Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that helps prevent heart disease and cancer. They are a good source of vitamin C as well as vitamin E to help protect the body from oxidative damage. Cucumbers provide anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits. Capsicum is a great source of beta-carotene which is an antioxidant and precursor to vitamin A, helping to promote vision and support reproduction, growth as well as a healthy immune system. Olives are antioxidant powerhouses and contain anti-inflammatory compounds, known for their role in preventing coronary artery disease.

Laksa gets a bad rap in Singapore because of the addition of coconut cream. However, coconut oil is actually a superfood, containing important compounds that enhance immunity and protect against digestive system disorders. In particular, coconuts are rich in lauric acid, which is known for being antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal, and boosts the immune system. Choose virgin coconut oil and coconut products that have no questionable ingredients added to them.

Asparagus—along with avocado, kale and Brussels sprouts—is a particularly rich source of glutathione, a detoxifying compound that helps break down carcinogens and other harmful compounds. It is also packed with antioxidants, ranking high for its ability to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals.

Full of vibrant, Moroccan flavours, these sweet potato and carrot 'fries' are a quick and delicious way to add a nutritious side to your main meal. Both sweet potatoes and carrots are rich sources of antioxidants. Sweet potatoes also contain manganese, an important mineral for stabilising blood sugar levels.

The stalk of the broccoli is actually the most nutritious part of the vegetable so make sure to use it in dishes that call for the florets. Chop the stalk into smaller pieces and incorporate into your dish with the rest of the broccoli. 1 serving of broccoli (a large stalk) provides 46% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A and 206% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C!

This Authentic Vegan Bulgur Pilaf recipe is hearty, healthy. An easy recipe for bulgur wheat. Full of fiber and easily customizable.

This juice contains camu camu - a South American berry that contains the highest concentration of vitamin C on the planet. It is available in powder form, but if you can't find it, just add more lemon to the juice. Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, that turns into vitamin A in the body and can help enhance immunity. The ginger is anti-viral, the garlic and oregano are anti-bacterial, and the turmeric is antimicrobial (an agent that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth). Meanwhile the celery and parsley are anti-inflammatory, and add a shot of blood-purifying chlorophyll as well.

This nutrient-packed side dish is perfect alongside any main dish - fish, meat or poultry.

Quinoa has been called the supergrain of the future because of its complete protein profile and nutrient density. It contains almost twice as much fiber as most other grains, and is rich in magnesium, iron and vitamin B2, which improves energy metabolism within brain and muscle cells.

A highly flavourful warm salad made with mung beans. Mung beans are a superfood rich in minerals such as magnesium, potassium, folic acid, zinc and iron. They are also an excellent source of protein and fibre.