There is something to be said for teamwork. Here are four pairs of foods that work best together, they understand, support and enrich each other. Like any good couple should.

Get Strong and Stay Strong (Iron and Vitamin C): Most of us, especially women don’t get enough of the energy boosting nutrient Iron. Found in animal proteins and most plant foods the nutrient cane easily come and go though the body without being properly stored. Best bet to get your fair share, add some vitamin C. Vitamin C helps free the iron from food and hand it over to your blood cells for use.  Iron in veggies like beans and lentils get a boost when consumed with bright red and yellow peppers or leafy greens.

Example: Red Peppers and Hummus.

For Heart Health and Sexy Skin: (Lycopene and Omega 3's): Lycopene is the magic behind the bright color in tomatoes, watermelon, and grapefruit. This carotenoid is believed to have strong antioxidant powers, with some studies showing a reduced risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease and macular degeneration. Researchers at Ohio State University found that when subjects ate tomatoes and avocados together, they absorbed 4.4 times more lycopene.

Example: Salsa and guacamole

Fight Cancer and Free Radicals (Sulphoraphane and Selenium): Sulporaphane may be new to you but we’ve always know broccoli was good for us.  Turns out cruciferous veggies like cauliflower, broccoli and brussel sprouts are loaded with this immunity boosting benefit. Selenium is a powerful antioxident producing mineral found in mushrooms, meats, nuts, seeds and eggs. Together these two pack a super healthy punch to knockout disease.

Example: Broccoli and Beef

Stay Smart (Folate and Vitamin B) These two nutrients work to balance each other out and keep our brains working at top speed. Two much of one and not enough of the other has been linked to slowed mental agility and forgetfulness. Folate found mostly in beans and veggies is best paired with Vitamin B rich foods like cheese, meat and other animal products.

Example: Salmon and Asparagus

Don’t go it alone!