NH ENG _Mac2022

FOOD & Nutrition
6 Seaweed
Seaweed is commonly used in Asian
dishes to uplift flavours and enhance
the overall appeal of various dishes.
It is also a popular snack or side
dish. However, it is more than just
a garnish or an appetiser, as these
sea vegetables, which are classified
as algae, contain high nutritional content, including fibres, proteins, omega 3
and 6 unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals like calcium, copper, iodine,
iron, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, phosphorus, potassium, selenium,
vanadium, and zinc. As it offers low caloric input, seaweed also helps with weight
loss. In Malaysia, the main cultivated seaweed species are Kappaphycus alvarezii
(elkhorn sea moss) and Eucheuma spinosum (red algae).
8 Bird’s Nest
Touted as the “caviar of the east,” edible
bird’s nest is one of the most prized
delicacies in the world. It’s easy to see
why: many studies claim that bird’s nest
has many nutritional elements ranging
from skin-enhancing components to
immunity-boosting properties. This
nutrient-rich superfood has also been
proven to contain essential amino acids
(protein), carbohydrates (high-fibre),
and minerals like calcium, sodium,
iron and potassium. It is regularly used
in Traditional Chinese Medicine to
enhance health and ease cough and flu
symptoms. It is also often consumed
as a beauty food by Asian women to
maintain a youthful appearance and
rejuvenate skin cells.
9 Palm oil
Widely grown in Malaysia, palm oil
is packed with heart-healthy fatty
acids and essential vitamins. Thanks
to its balanced ratio of unsaturated
to saturated fatty acids, it supports
healthy blood cholesterol levels.
According to the Malaysian Palm Oil
Council (MPOC), palm oil is extracted
from the flesh using an exclusive
technology that maintains the plant’s
carotenoids and vitamin E as well
as supplies fatty acids and other
important fat-soluble micronutrients.
In addition, solid fats made from palm
oil are better for health as they do not
have to go through hydrogenation,
which is known to cause cancer.
7 Kelulut honey
Did you know that honey produced by
stingless bees found in Malaysia is a
highly nutritious superfood? Known as
kelulut honey, this local honey species
has been reported to possess stronger
antioxidant activity and higher phenolic
content. It can also be used to treat
various medical conditions due to its
anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anticancer
properties. While it is sweeter
than sugar, this sweet-sour honey has
minimal sugar content and a lower
Glycemic Index (GI) than manuka honey.
10 Durian
Thorny and pungent, durian is not the most appetising fruit
around – for most people anyway. For durian lovers, you’d
be glad to know your acquired taste for this exotic fruit with
its creamy texture and intense aroma offers various health
benefits. Durian is a dietary source of potassium that plays
a vital role in maintaining blood pressure levels. It is also
rich in minerals like iron and copper to support bone health.
This sumptuous fruit is also an energy and mood booster. Thanks to its high
potassium content, durian can help you beat afternoon slumps and relieve anxiety.
Additionally, it contains tryptophan, which breaks down into serotonin – a chemical
substance that makes you feel happy and relaxed.
20 Natural Health * March 2022 VOL 126