- Searches for ‘natural remedies’ have increased by +26% in the last year
- Health experts share three essentials you should include in your diet and why
Health experts have shared three cupboard staples you need in your diet, and how they can help treat common ailments, from a common cough to aiding cardiac health.
As Benenden Health noted searches for ‘natural remedies’ have increased by +26% in the last year, Llinos Connolly Clinical Services Sister, at Benenden Health explains:
“It’s hard to sort fact from fiction with so many old wives’ tales about home remedies out there. But there are certain remedies that can help to relieve coughs, indigestion and more.
“So, to boost your immune system and naturally aid illnesses, these are three cupboard essentials that should be in your diet.”
Ginger for metabolism and indigestion
Packed with flavour and nutrients, it’s no surprise people are curious about the benefits of ginger. In fact, searches for ‘what are the health benefits of ginger’ have increased by +55% in the last year.
Firstly, ginger contains a range of vitamins and minerals, such as choline that can help to support your metabolism and muscle functions.
The root also contains gingerol, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it has been known to relieve indigestion and other stomach discomforts. If you’re prone to these issues, try adding ginger to tea before eating a meal to help with bloating.
Additionally, studies have shown its antioxidant properties have the ability to help protect against chronic diseases[1].
For the perfect invigorating drink, simply boil fresh slices of ginger in water for ten minutes and add lemon or honey to taste.
Garlic for colds and cardiac health
Garlic has been used medicinally for centuries, and its uses are still widely sought after today, as searches for ‘benefits of garlic’ have increased by 55% in the last year.
One reason is that garlic contains chemicals called phytochemicals, which are thought to aid cardiac health and lower high cholesterol.
Due to its antiviral properties, if you are suffering from the common cold or even the flu, this cupboard staple may be just what you need.
Fortunately, garlic is a staple ingredient in so many recipes, making it easy to gradually eat more of this immune-boosting ingredient.
You can even try taking garlic supplements during cold and flu seasons, to help alleviate symptoms.
However, the consumption of garlic supplements and large amounts of garlic should be avoided in people who use blood thinners, especially warfarin.
Honey for energy and coughs
A sweeter cupboard essential, honey, has somewhat surprising benefits if consumed regularly and in moderation.
Honey contains vitamins, A, C, D and E, making it a good natural source of energy and it can help strengthen your immune system too.
Additionally, because of its high antioxidant and adiponectin content, honey can help to reduce inflammation and improve blood sugar regulation.
And if you’re searching for ‘what foods help coughs’, a query that has seen a +100% increase in searches in the last year, honey may be the remedy you’re looking for. This superfood is known to alleviate symptoms and reduce the duration of coughs.
To sweeten and bolster your immune defences try a lemon and honey tea or a turmeric and honey juice for the ultimate pick me up.
Please note that children under 1 should not be given honey.
Now you know why these three cupboard essentials are important, why not put your knowledge to the test and try out Benenden Health’s Home Remedy quiz for more information?
