In a country that is saturated with food chains and food products from abroad, it is no surprise why local food has taken a back seat. Often times, most Filipinos opt for sodas, burgers, etc. rather than trying indigenous (meaning, locally grown and harvested) produce. Here are 5 local food that might change your mind about eating local.

1. Buko

Did you know that, apart from being a truly refreshing drink, Fresh Buko or coconut water (from a shell and not in a tetrapack) has a bevy of health benefits?

Some benefits of coconut water include:

• being nature’s most perfect hydration aid. It contains the 5 key components of electrolytes (calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and sodium) to help your body stay hydrated whether you have health issues or not
• That it contains cytokinins, a class of phytohormones that have significant anti-ageing and anti-carcinogenic effects
• have live enzymes that aid in proper digestion

2. Malunggay

Malunggay or Moringa is an often-ignored indigenous plant that is filled with lots of vitamins and minerals.

Malunggay has:

• 3 times more iron than Spinach
• About 3 times more calcium than milk
• Twice the amount of Vitamin A than carrots
• 4 times more fiber than oats
• Twice the amount of protein than yogurt

Plus, Malunggay also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It helps lessen inflammations in the body.

3. Tuna

Tuna is one fish that is so abundant in the Philippines that is sometimes overlooked. In fact, when going to western countries, tuna is often so expensive and sought after. Plus, tuna is:

• Low in fat
• High in Omega 3, which is a must for heart health
• Very high in protein

When choosing to eat tuna, opt for the fresh cuts rather than the ones in can to get the maximum health benefit.

4. Kamote

Kamote or Sweet potatoes were found to be the food present in the daily intake of people who live past 100 years old. Kamote is actually a potent, but cheap, superfood. Kamote is:

• Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, E, and B6
• Low in Glycemic Index, which means it can help keep blood sugar levels managed
• High in good fiber, potassium, and niacin

5. Unpolished Rice

Apart from being a staple diet food, unpolished rice (red rice, brown rice, violet rice, black rice, etc) is loaded with vitamins and minerals. Unpolished rice is:

• Low in Glycemic Index. Which means that it can help regularize blood sugar levels
• Rich in Selenium and Manganese
• High in Fiber and Rich in Antioxidants