Being in your own surroundings, healthy living at home can be difficult, especially when lounging around on the sofa and eating junk food becomes all too familiar.

And, with leisure centres, parks and other social gathering areas around us closing their doors, it is important now more than ever to make sure your body is in a fit and healthy state – ready to tackle any sort of illness.

Feeling uninspired and a little stuck trying to decide what to cook at home? Here is some healthy food to always have at home as well as drinks to contribute to a happy and healthy body:

1. Garlic 

   Garlic has long been used by humans to improve various aspects of health. When looking at the effects garlic has on immunity, several scientific studies show that it stimulates multiple mechanisms in the body, which promotes the production of up to five important types of cells the body makes to drive our immune defences.

2. Watermelon 

   Besides being a great low-calorie source of vitamins A and C, watermelon contains lycopene, a natural carotenoid which studies have suggested can lower the risk of heart and vascular disease and some cancers. It is also a concentrated source of citrulline, an amino acid that helps your blood vessels dilate and support good blood pressure. It’s fantastic for a refreshing mocktail as we prepare for Spring.

3. Chickpeas 

   Chickpeas offer a range of health benefits. As an ingredient, they’re high in folate, other B vitamins, several minerals, protein, fibre and even contain omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. They have shown to reduce levels of bad cholesterol and make for a great addition to any salad and side dishes.

4. Quinoa 

   Quinoa is one of very few grains that contains enough of all of the essential amino acids that are required to repair and maintain our muscles, blood, enzymes, organs and support our immunity. It’s also high in probiotic fibre to foster good bacteria growth in our gut and is a good antioxidant. Plus, it makes a pretty great meat alternative too!

5. Green Tea 

   Green tea contains a rich concentration of flavonoids and polyphenols, natural antioxidants that may protect cells in the body. The tea’s antioxidants may also guard against heart disease by relaxing blood vessels, stopping the formation of blood clots that trigger heart attacks and strokes. Green tea also contains fluoride, which strengthens teeth.

6. Cranberry Juice 

   Research suggests that the anti-bacterial properties present in cranberry juice fight off disease in the mouth and around teeth. Experts say that a component of the juice called nondialysable material (NDM) stops bacteria from sticking to the gums. Alternatively, you can buy nano minerals to keep your body healthy. This is because many nutritionists are wary of fruit juices because of their sugar content, so limit your intake to no more than one glass (six to eight ounces) daily.

7. Water (obviously)

   Abundant, refreshing, providing everything the body needs to replenish the fluids it loses – humans relied on it as their only beverage for millions of years. A glass of fresh cold water can sometimes be just what you need – it also contributes to healthy skin!