A nutritionist’s five top tips for an instantly healthier diet

In her new cookbook How Can I Help You? nutritionist Susan Fruhman shares nutritional advice with everyone who wants to eat the healthiest diet.

But the book is also specifically aimed at assisting anyone who wants to know which types of food are best when someone is unwell, too tired to cook and in need of support.

Read more about Susan, her book (the proceeds of which will go to Chai Cancer Care) here and the healthiest foods to take to someone who needs help.

These are five of Susan’s top tips for simple changes that make for a healthier diet:

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Iron age

Cancer patients, as well as women pre-menopause, can be anaemic or low in iron. Spirulina powder, which can be found in the health section in the supermarket, is a good natural way to increase ferritin levels.

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Blood sugar steps

Eat at regular intervals to help regulate your blood glucose. Buckwheat is a great alternative to plain flour if you're monitoring your sugar level and trying to balance it. Sweeten a drink or dessert with maple syrup which has a lower glycaemic level.

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Prevent processed

Remove processed foods which can cause inflammation and also increase your intake of anti-inflammatory products such as warming herbs like turmeric and ginger, and fresh vegetables. Make sure your diet is packed with natural, unprocessed ingredients.

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Fibre is fundamental

Always pick fresh whole foods, including plenty of fruit and vegetables, and have complex rather than refined carbohydrates to get more fibre into your diet. Think starchy vegetables, whole grains and beans rather than bread and biscuits.

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Prep power

It’s worth prepping ingredients from their raw state if you can. For example, instead of buying pre-grated or pureed ginger, buy it fresh and whole then grate it yourself — it will be far more nutritious and powerful.