Purple carrots
Why’ are they so good?Carrots are a great source of fibre, vitamins C and K, beta-carotene, potassium and magnesium, but purple ones are also rich in anthocyanins, which makes them good for cardio-vascular health and reducing inflammation. They’re not new either – in fact, purple carrots were commonplace until Dutch farmers began cultivating orange ones in the 17th century in honour of William of Orange. He must have been well chuffed!
What do they taste like? Erm, carrots. Except a little sweeter and more peppery.
Where do I get them? Waitrose do a 350g pack for £1.25.
Teff Flour
Why’s it so good? Made from a grain commonly found in Ethiopia this is a great source of iron, calcium and vitamin K – essential for good bone health, which cyclists need to pay particular attention to since bone density can suffer if you ride a bike, and bones can break if you fall off of one! Rich in protein and carbs it’s also good for gut health is and is gluten free.
What does it taste like? Much like any other wholemeal flour.
Where do I get it? Morrisons stock Doves Farm Gluten Free Teff Flour. Get a 120g bag for £1.60.
Black rice
Why’s it so good? It contains nutrients you won’t find in white rice. As well as being rich in fibre, it’s stuffed with copper, iron and high levels of anthocyanin, an antioxidant that boosts cardiovascular health and reduces inflammation, so again good grub to use when you’re recovering.
What’s it taste like? It’s got a nutty, earthy tang to it. Looks great on a plate, too.
Where do I get it? Sainsbury’s Thai Black Rice is £2.50 for a 500g pack.
Cocoa Nibs
Why’s it so good? Bursting with magnesium and iron these yummy shavings are made from parts of the cocoa bean often discarded during the manufacture of chocolate. Having undergone minimal processing and with no added sugars, they’re a great source of antioxidants and an even healthier treat for your heart than dark chocolate.
What do they taste like? Chocolatey. Eat them sprinkled on top of your cereal.
Where do I get them? Morrisons do Natural Days Cacao Nibs. Get 100g for £2.26.
Matcha Tea
Why’s it so good? Hard training can produce damaging oxidants (boo!), which you can counteract with antioxidants (hurrah!). Matcha tea is crammed with these plus an amino acid called I-theanine that’s a proven stress buster. So drink some matcha after a tough ride – it’ll boost your recovery.
What does it taste like? Think blended veg with a sweet aftertaste.
Where do I get it? Tesco do Pukka Organic Fair Trade Matcha Tea, 30g for £2.39.