Rainy Day Booster


Rainy season has officially started! With this non-stop pouring also comes the frequency of colds and flu. Did you know that micronutrient deficiency may weaken your immune system and lower your defenses against sickness? Micronutrients play important role to complete particular bodily functions. They are often referred to as vitamins and minerals, which although only required by the body in small amounts, are vital to development, disease prevention, and wellbeing.1 Micronutrients are not produced in the body and therefore must come from the food that we eat. Let’s get acquainted with some of our micronutrients, shall we?

Did you know that deficiencies in micronutrients such as iron, iodine, vitamin A, and zinc can have devastating health consequences? But fret not as these micronutrients are available in the foods that we eat! Moreover, aside from foods that naturally contain micronutrients, there are also food items that are fortified and enriched with vitamins and minerals. This has been established through RA 8976 or the Philippine Food Fortification Program2. Now all you need to do is read the labels when you do the groceries.

                Good thing that Gardenia gives you a lot of healthy options to choose from as all of their breads are definitely loaded with micronutrients! Take for example Gardenia High Fiber Wheat Bread. Not only is it a great source of fiber (2 slices gives you 20% of your daily fiber requirement), has zero trans-fat and zero cholesterol, but it is also enriched with Vitamin B complex, Iron, and Vitamin A. As we know, these micronutrients are responsible for immunity, nerve function, and more (you may refer to the table above). So why not try out this delectable and healthy recipe using Gardenia High Fiber Wheat Bread: Gardenia Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Pizza.

 

Gardenia Brussels sprouts and Sausage Pizza

(Carbohydrates: 30g Protein: 16g Fat: 13g Fiber: 6g Calories: 300kcal)

 

Ingredients:

 

2 slices Gardenia High Fiber Whole Wheat Bread, flatten

1⁄4 cup grated cheese

1 pc sausage, thinly sliced

1⁄4 tsp pepper

1⁄4 tsp salt

2 Tbsp olive oil

6 oz Brussels sprouts, sliced

1 tsp red pepper flakes + fresh cracked pepper + grated parmesan to serve

 

 

Directions:

 

  1. Toss sliced Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper
  2. Spread Brussels sprouts on the bread.
  3. Top this with thinly sliced sausage and then sprinkle with ¼ cup grated cheese.
  4. Bake at 180 degrees for 15min until crust is brown, Brussels sprouts are slightly charred, and cheese is bubbly.
  5. Top with red pepper flakes, fresh cracked pepper, and freshly grated parmesan before serving.

 

So choose your snack wisely, go for micronutrient-enriched breads instead of other foods that contain empty calories — sugary and high sodium food items. Prioritize your health now, boost your energy this rainy season!