Page 52 - ELITE PLUS MAGAZINE VOL7

Popular among Asians, especially in Chinaand Japan, tea has many benefits, such as by burning fat, reducing cholesterol absorption and helping manage body weightindispensable for good health. These provide not only vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients but also fibre to aid digestion.Soybean milk: Considered a good source of protein, soybean milk has been popular with Thai consumers for decades. In recent years, fortified soybean drinks have been especially popular.Teas and other infusions: Never mind the lucky draws on the market right now, the benefits of the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) have been backed by research over a few thousand years. Popular among Asians, especially in China and Japan, tea has many benefits, such as by burning fat, reducing cholesterol absorption and helping manage body weight. Other plants consumed as beverages can also provide phytonutrients beneficial to our body in different ways.Coffee: Besides keeping drinkersawake – a property of caffeine – many studies confirm other health benefits of coffee, such as protecting our liver from cancer.Sports drinks: These are becoming more popular in tandem with the trend of being more physically active. After sweating heavily, our bodies need mineral replenishment, and the sports beverage market capitalizes on this.Other health food products: This group covers other items, such as coconut milk with an adjusted lipid profile that is healthier to consume, and mushroom extract that helps the immune system.Why eat health food?Unlike supplements, taken for nutritional and physical needs, the first consideration for food is often taste. Health food provides additional benefits, but the primary consideration remains the same. Other factors50 Elite+