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istockphoto.com, miwa_in_oz , Magone, chokja, Elena Tsvetkova, Drazen Zigic, alexander ruiz Nourish to Flourish Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach Charlotte Lau explores the benefits of incorporating another healthy ingredient into our diets. This month it’s turmeric Turmeric has become a bit of a ‘trendy’ wellness ingredient on social media in recent years, used in everything from lattes to pancakes and porridge, but what are the health benefits and is it worthy of the hype? The group of compounds that are responsible for much of turmeric’s health benefits are the colour pigments called curcuminoids. These are responsible for the vivid orange colour of turmeric as well as its powerful anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant properties. However, curcumin is poorly absorbed by the body, so in order to receive its full benefits, it needs to be combined with ingredients such as black pepper which contains piperine, a compound which enhances the absorption of curcumin by 2000%. Turmeric is also a fat-soluble substance, which means you need to eat it with a source of fat for it to be absorbed well, so pair it with foods such as coconut milk, avocado or cheese to maximise the benefit. In higher doses, such as in a supplement form, turmeric has been known to manage the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, offer cardio-protective benefits and help reduce the risk of type-2 diabetes, although more scientific research is being done to explore its full potential on our health. Charlotte runs Plume Nutrition, where she offers support and advice for weight management, controlling cravings, sleeplessness, stress and increasing energy levels. Find out more at plumenutrition.com Red lentil dahl with turmeric This warming red lentil dahl is a tasty, mild curry, protein packed, creamy and delicious…perfect for a cosy weekend supper and rich in turmeric and its antioxidant benefits. Serves 6 • 1 tsp olive oil or coconut oil • 2 onions diced • 3 garlic cloves finely chopped • 1 tbsp fresh ginger peeled and grated • ½ finely chopped red chilli (or ½ tsp dried chilli flakes) • ½ tsp cumin seeds • ½ tsp coriander seeds • ½ tsp mustard seeds • 2 tsp ground turmeric • 1 tsp garam masala • 200g dried red lentils, uncooked, rinsed and drained • 1 can chopped tomatoes • 1 can coconut milk • 500ml vegetable broth/stock • salt and black pepper • juice of a lemon • 2 handfuls fresh spinach, washed (frozen spinach can be used too) Grind the cumin, coriander and mustard seeds lightly using a pestle and mortar, then add to the pan, along with the turmeric and garam masala and cook for 1 minute. Add the lentils, tomatoes with their juice, coconut milk and broth/stock, then stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper and cook on a medium/low heat for 15-20 minutes until reduced and thick. If you have time, you can leave it a little longer on a very low heat for even more flavour (just stir often and check it doesn’t scorch on the bottom of the pan). Taste and add more chilli if desired. Stir in the lemon juice and spinach until it wilts. 93 priceless-magazines.com