Bitterness and why it is good for you.

The Radio 4 Food Programme recently discussed the disappearance of bitter tastes in the food we eat. Food producers are breeding out bitterness from fruit and vegetables and manufactured food is becoming sweeter to be instantly appealing.

Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic Medicine recommends a balance of the 6 tastes in our food for better health.

Bitter tastes stimulate stomach acid, digestive enzymes and bile production so that nutrients can be properly digested and absorbed. They help cleanse the body as they are sulphur based and support liver detoxification. Bitter food also stimulates the body's metabolism and controls sweet cravings so help with weight control and are anti-inflammatory strengthening the immune system.

A deficiency of bitter foods and a move towards sweeter options has led to a rise in inflammatory conditions, digestive problems, lowered immune function and diabetes.

There are many bitter foods, for example:
leafy greens e.g.rocket, kale, dandelion, nettle
spices like turmeric, cumin and fenugreek
herbs like basil, saffron and dill
coffee and raw cacao powder

Try and incorporate some of these into your diet to improve your digestion.

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