Did you know that just by choosing how we pair our ingredients we can boost -or loss- their benefits? That’s right, it’s as simple as smart pairing.
Let’s embrace healthy fats
Some nutrients are fat-soluble (Vitamins A, D, E, and K), and your body absorbs them better with fats. Carotenoids (like beta-carotene) in carrots/sweet potatoes and lycopene (in tomatoes) especially benefit from healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, or nuts.
Cooking tip: Sauté your greens in olive oil or add a drizzle to your salad to boost nutrient uptake.
Did you know that iron loves Vitamin C?
Studies show that plant-based iron (non-heme iron) isn’t absorbed as well as animal-based iron. Vitamin C improves non-heme iron absorption, making it perfect to pair with iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, or beans. Add lemon juice or bell peppers to your plates to help your body make the most of plant iron. Just a heads up though, even if well paired, plant-based iron isn’t absorbed as well as animal-based iron.
It’s best when we avoid nutrient blockers at mealtime
Compounds like tannins (found in tea and coffee) can impair absorption of non-heme iron and calcium. Enjoy those beverages, just not right after an iron-rich meal — waiting at least an hour helps you avoid interference.
Calcium needs Vitamin D
Calcium is essential for bone strength, nerve function, and muscle health—but without vitamin D, your body struggles to absorb it. Foods rich in calcium (like dairy or fortified alternatives) work best when paired with vitamin D sources like egg yolks, fatty fish, or sunlight exposure. Just 20 minutes of midday sun helps your skin make vitamin D naturally.
Whether you’re trying to boost energy, improve health, or simply enjoy your food more, these strategies help you get the most from every bite.
Are You Ready to Transform Your Kitchen & Body?
If you’re excited to harness the full potential of your food and unlock better health, reach out. Team Kinetics NJ is here to help. Text us at 732-314-3086 or respond to this email and let’s create a program that nourishes your body and delights your taste buds! 💛
What’s Coming Up At Kinetics
ADULT PROGRAMMING
- JAN. 26 – MAR. 15: FITNESS CHALLENGE: 50 DAYS KINETICS STRONG
- FEB. 7 – MAR. 14: VINYASA FLOW SERIES, *theme, LOVE YOUR SPINE, Saturdays 11:15-12:30PM
- FEB 8, 1:00-5:00 PM: Historical Exhibit, The Black Kentucky Derby 1875-1921. RSVP required, text 973-433-6169
- .FEB 14, 3:00-5:00 PM Couples Vegan Cooking Class: Couples Who Cook. RSVP required, text 732-314-3086
KIDS PROGRAMMING
- JAN 2 – FEB 20, 1:00-3:00 PM: Cooking With The Vegan Spot: Vegan Cooking with Spanish Language Practice for Kids (ages 6-11)
- JAN 24 – FEB 28, 9:00-10:00 AM: Aerial Fit for Kids.
TO GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ANY UPCOMING PROGRAM, DO TEXT US AT 732-314-3086. WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU!