BOOK: Neal's Yard Healing Foods

Established in Covent Garden in 1981, Neal's Yard originally launched to fight against the chemical approach to skin care and health that was being used so readily. Over 30 years later, Neal's Yard is still bringing us fantastic products and natural ingredients, but they've extended this into healthy eating with the launch of their new book 'Healing Foods'. I could not be any less interested in cooking or cookbooks, but this offers something different from the norm - a step-by-step guide to understanding what foods you should be eating and why. It starts off by explaining the different kind of diets around the world and why our Westernised food consumption causes so many issues, including IBS and gluten allergies. Once you read the introduction it makes so much sense (especially to someone who suffers from both,) and sets up the theme for the rest of the text. Neal's Yard take fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, meats, fish, teas and much more in turn, explaining the benefits of each individual ingredient and how it can aid your body's performance and recovery. Not one to normally sit down and read such a book pretty much from cover to cover, I was surprised at myself when I was still sat on my sofa fully engrossed two hours later. I learned a huge amount just from flicking through, understanding in particular what fruits I should be eating to ensure I'm fighting fit and my digestion is functioning the way it should. Here are a few tips I learned from the book, a must for anyone who wants to watch what they're putting in their mouth:

Dark chocolate can not only be used for heart health, immune support and digestion, but also to treat sore throats and coughs.
The humble watermelon can help speed up wound healing, while the aubergine aids body detox. No need for fancy supplements!
Cranberries can not only help with urinary infections, but also help alleviate heavy periods, gum disease and sore throats. What an amazing fruit!
If you're suffering with insomnia or jet lag, nom on some cherries... They contain melatonin which promotes sleep and helps you snooze off.
A kiwi provides 10% of your daily fibre requirement. Eat 10 and you're done for the day! Your tummy will be thankful.
Apparently pears are a good bulking laxative, so perfect for IBS sufferers. They also have soothing and uplifting qualities if you're feeling blue.
Apples help ease constipation and diarrhoea, as well as fat absorption - perfect if you're watching your weight or suffering from IBS.