These tasty muffins are jam-packed with protective antioxidants and dietary fibre that help neutralise free radicals in the body and support cardiovascular health. Apples contain soluble fibre that helps to lower cholesterol levels, and polyphenols that can lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke.

Pine nuts are a nutritious seed containing vitamins E and K, magnesium and beneficial monounsaturated fats, all needed for good heart health. Eating foods like garlic, onion and mushrooms that are good sources of the trace mineral selenium will help boost immune function and reduce inflammation in the body.

Whether you’re trying to boost your memory or improve focus and productivity at work, including brain-enhancing foods, herbs and nutrients in your daily diet is a must.

This nutritious dish contains plenty of protein to keep you satisfied and blood sugar levels stable. Chicken is a great source of tryptophan, an amino acid needed to make melatonin which is an important neurotransmitter that helps us sleep and acts as an antioxidant in the body. Chicken also provides a good dose of immune-boosting zinc and vitamin B12 to support healthy brain and nerve function.

Hemp seeds are one of the richest plant sources of polyunsaturated essential fatty acids. They contain a perfect balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fats which help promote strong immune function and cardiovascular health.

Turmeric has been used and well respected for 2500 years in India as an Ayurvedic medicine. This brightly coloured spice, which gives curry its lovely orange-yellow colour, has many outstanding health-boosting properties. Curcumin is also a highly effective anti-inflammatory as well as having strong antioxidant properties. Regular consumption of turmeric in the diet could protect you against infections, especially those of the digestive tract, as well as relieving arthritic conditions and helping protect you from cancers and Alzheimer’s disease.

Lentils and other legumes are considered a low-GI food as they are digested slowly and won’t cause a sharp rise in blood sugar and insulin levels. The high protein and soluble fibre content of legumes slows the rate at which they leave the stomach and delays the absorption of its glucose. This makes them an ideal addition to the diet, especially for anyone having to watch their weight and blood sugar levels.

Chicken is an excellent source of protein containing branched-chain amino acids, leucine, isoleucine and valine, which are used to boost protein synthesis in the muscles as well as provide energy. Chicken also supplies vitamin B12, needed to support healthy nerve function and red blood cell production.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects millions of women Australia-wide and is one of the most common forms of hormonal imbalance in women of childbearing age. It varies in symptoms and degree from woman to woman but can significantly disrupt life. Thankfully, there are herbal, nutritional and lifestyle choices that can get your PMS into balance.

Antioxidants defend against cell-damaging free radicals, which increase your risk of disease and premature ageing. Including a variety of antioxidant-rich foods in your diet is one of the best ways to optimise health and longevity.

Chicken provides amino acids needed to build and restore the body. Eating protein helps stabilise blood sugar levels and gives you a sense of satiety after eating. Chicken also supplies plenty of zinc, an important nutrient needed for wound healing, healthy immune function and male and female fertility. Including dark green leafy vegetables like spinach in your daily diet is one of the best things you can do for your health. These nutritional powerhouses are rich in B vitamins, including folate, B6 and B12, which are all needed for good heart health.

This hearty risotto is a great source of dietary fibre. Brown rice contains around seven times more fibre than white rice per serving and has a lower GI (glycaemic index), which means it takes longer to digest and won’t cause sharp spikes in blood sugar levels. Fibre is important, not only for keeping blood sugar levels stable but also for cardiovascular health, as it helps to lower cholesterol levels.