Hot Food Trends for 2016

Trends come and go not only in the fashion industry but also on our plates. We all went mad for Quinoa, avocado and courgetti in 2015. What we’ll be filling up our cupboards with in 2016? We asked experts to list top trends they expect to take us all by storm.

Camel Milk

At first, it was soya milk. Then you were adding almond milk to your coffees. This year, Starbucks coffee shops introduced coconut latte. What’s next then? Camel milk. ‘Camel’s milk is not only much easier to digest than cow’s milk but it’s also low in fat and in calories. It is also packed with the essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, Vitamins B, D and C, calcium, protein and zinc.’ explains Shona Wilkinson, Head Nutritionist at www.nutricentre.com.

It lacks the protein beta-casein and other common allergens found in cow’s milk so it is also suitable for those, who are lactose intolerant.

Coenzyme Q10

No one wants to take five pills with each meal to top up their vitamins and minerals levels. That’s why this real multi-tasker will be your new supplement in 2016.

Coenzyme Q10 is found primarily in the mitochondria of our cells – the part of the cell where energy production takes place. Cassandra Barns, Nutritionist says ‘Because it’s produced by our body, it gives us a completely different ‘energy kick’ than stimulants, such as coffee or sugar. It switches on energy production in our cells. Coenzyme Q10 also helps defend against the degenerative changes of ageing, both inside and out. It supports brain health and helps protect against age-related memory decline as well as quenching free radicals that damage cells and age the skin. Go for a supplement that combines CoQ10 with a complex of antioxidant-packed botanicals. Try Nature’s Plus Ageloss Energy Support (www.revital.co.uk, £32.25)’

Crickets

Something that has been recently only a challenge for celebrities in a jungle seems to be a new protein ingredient among the Gwyneth Paltrows of this world! ‘Crickets are highly nutritious, containing more protein than beef per 100g which much less fat. They are also high in vitamin D, B1, B2 and B6, as well as phosphorus, iron, calcium, zinc, copper and manganese. You can buy the flour, which saves you crunching on a cricket! A fab new addition to your pantry and in your home baking! Although eating insects does sound gross, we have to remember that they are a popular food in many parts of the world and that it is just westerner who do like the idea!’ says Ella Allred, Nutritionist at www.nutricentre.com.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has a long history in traditional medicine – the first written record of its use is over 3000 years ago! It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity thanks to its content of flavonoids, tannins, carotenoids, vitamin C and polysaccharides, amongst others. ‘All these valuable ingredients can support and balance the immune system, partly through these anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe Vera can also help to fight virus infections as it has strong anti-microbial properties.’ explains Shona Wilkinson, Head Nutritionist at www.nutricentre.com.

Aloe Vera can also help to speed up cell growth and repair damaged tissues. ‘That’s why it’s an excellent after sun soother for irritated and burnt skin as well as an acne remedy. Due to its high vitamin content (A, B1, B2, B6, B12), Aloe Vera can rejuvenate and reach deep into the skin helping to heal micro-wounds, including acne scars. Try Soothing Skin Gel by What Skin Needs (www.whatskinneeds.co.uk, £14.99)’ says Sonja Dymalovski, Skincare Expert at What Skin Needs.

Turmeric

Forget about kale. Turmeric is a new superhero. Even though it might sound exotic, you probably had it in your curry as it’s used for depth and orange colour. ‘Curcumin is one of the main active ingredients in turmeric. Curcumin is well known for its health benefits especially its anti-inflammatory and anti oxidant benefits. Used for centuries in Asia for medicinal purposes, turmeric has always been popular but watch this space for it to become even more popular!’ explains Shona Wilkinson, Head Nutritionist at www.nutricentre.com. Not the biggest fan of curry? Take it in a supplement form to manage inflammation. Try CurQuMax by Quest Vitamins (www.revital.co.uk, 10.45).

Flexitarianism

A flexitarianism will be a new veganism in 2016. ‘It is where you are a vegetarian with the occasional inclusion of meat. This is fantastic news for the as reducing meat consumption is an essential for looking after our planet. Some people do however need a small amount of meat in their diet, making flexitarianism perfect for them! As long as you do it properly, by including lots of beans and pulses, you may see a massive change in your health, the planet and your bank balance. Start by halving your meat consumption and doubling your vegetarian protein consumption. Try three vegetarian days per week and build it up from there.’ explains Allred.

Medicinal mushrooms

Dubbed ‘The New Kale’, medicinal mushrooms may not be as photogenic as a green smoothie but after centuries of use in traditional Eastern medicine, they are emerging in our health food. Ella says ‘Lots of scientific research has been carried out on the positive effects of medicinal mushrooms on the immune system. Mushrooms like Shitake, Miatake, Cordyceps, Coriolus and lions main are becoming popular choices. They are high in beta glucans- which has an effect on the immune system and many other positive benefits. The nation is waking up to what the Chinese have known for years about medicinal mushrooms.’

But can’t we just throw some into an omelette? Catalina Fernandez de Ana Portela, a mycologist (mushroom biologist) and founder of Hifas da Terra. Says ‘You’d have to consume about 1lb of fresh mushrooms daily, for 60 days in a row to see a similar effect!’ Go for Hifas da Terra supplements (£55, Harrods) that offer potent, highly concentrated, organic mushroom extract in easy-to-consume capsules.

Ancient grains

Quinoa has started the trend for ancient grains but it’s time for new additions to your salad. ‘Grains are crucial in promoting digestive health and reducing the risk of bowel cancer. Its nutritional superiority and the health benefits that they offer have caused a shift in thinking and dietary habits.’ says Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading Nutritionist (www.marilynglenville.com).

‘Grains such Quinoa have started the trend and expected to follow are Farro, teff, Kamut and spelt.’ adds Allred.

Pulses

Pulses include beans, lentils and peas. They are not only a real mineral and vitamin bomb but also cheap ingredients that will keep you fuller for longer. ‘Pulses make a great addition to your diet by providing a vegan source of protein and fibre. Even meat eaters should be consuming them and decreasing their meat consumption. The world cannot sustain meat production at its current rate of consumption. Including pulses will not only bump up your fibre intake, look after the planet, but will go a long way to looking after your heart too. Red lentils are great because they contain iron and 100g of chickpeas contains more than your RDA of folate. Try using chickpea flour in baking and sauces. It also makes delicious pancakes!’ says Ella.