At least a third of Brazilian families’ spending is on health-related problems (medicines, exams and medical consultations), according to the most recent data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). This value is equivalent to more than R$168 billion. However, these values can be reduced by up to 35% if careful measures are taken to prevent disease, eat and have healthier habits, as shown in research published by Harvard Business Review.
Health month is celebrated in April and eating habits have a strong impact on improving quality of life and the immune system. The adoption of these habits begins when the family goes shopping at home, placing healthier items in the cart, which increase immunity and enable a healthier routine.
According to the manager of the DB Group Nutrition team, Evanilde Campos, combined with quality sleep, exercise and adequate water consumption, healthy eating increases immunity and directly impacts people’s quality of life. “Amazonas is one of the regions with the greatest variety of options that easily meet this type of demand. At DB Group units, regional items are highlighted and are offered in all units”.
The specialist highlights some regional items and what benefits they bring to health. “Camu-camu is very rich in vitamin C and has anti-inflammatory action; Peach palm, in addition to being rich in vitamins A and C, is also an important source of dietary fiber, with minerals such as iron and calcium, responsible for the proper functioning of the intestine and strengthening bones. Tucumã, a fruit so loved and consumed by Amazonians, is rich in omega 3, vitamin A, B1 and C,” she explained.
According to the expert, combining foods is one of the essential factors in achieving nutritional balance. In practice, it means knowing which foods should be combined to get the maximum benefit from each of them.
The most common combination among Brazilians is rice and beans and the expert points out that the union of different amino acids that are part of these grains forms a powerful protein of vegetable origin. Another combination widely used by Brazilians is carrot and orange. “Both are rich in vitamin C, however, the fiber in carrots helps control the glycemic peak generated by the fruit’s carbohydrates, making the combination even more complete,” she explained.
The combination can also be used in salads, as olive oil further enhances the benefits of tomatoes, which are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that slows down aging.
“Food produced locally and sold at Grupo DB units is fresher and healthier, as it does not need to go through long transport routes to reach final consumption. This ensures that the food maintains its quality and nutritional properties, in addition to providing a more intense and authentic flavor”, assured Evanilde.
