Laura Frontiero writes:
You’ve probably heard the phrase “food is medicine.”
But here’s something most people don’t realize…
Sometimes it’s not about what you eat—but what you eat it with.
Certain foods are more powerful when paired together.
They help your body absorb nutrients better, reduce inflammation more efficiently, and even enhance detoxification pathways.
We call this the synergistic effect—when two or more foods combine forces to amplify their health benefits.
Let me show you a few of my favorites:
1. Turmeric + Black Pepper + Healthy Fat
Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, is notoriously hard to absorb. But when you pair it with black pepper (which contains piperine) and a fat like olive oil or avocado, absorption increases by up to 2000%.
This trio can help lower inflammation, support liver detox enzymes, and may even improve joint and muscle recovery.
Try: Roasted veggies tossed in turmeric, black pepper, and olive oil
2. Spinach + Lemon Juice
Iron from plant sources (like spinach) is non-heme and harder to absorb. But vitamin C (found in lemon) helps convert it into a more absorbable form.
This duo supports healthy red blood cell production, boosts energy, and helps prevent iron-deficiency fatigue.
Try: A spinach salad with a fresh-squeezed lemon vinaigrette
3. Carrots + Avocado
The beta-carotene in carrots needs fat to be properly absorbed and converted to vitamin A. Avocados are a perfect partner.
This combo skin health, strengthens immune defenses, and protects vision—all with just two ingredients.
Try: Shredded carrot salad with avocado cubes and a splash of lime
4. Tomatoes + Olive Oil
The antioxidant lycopene in tomatoes is fat-soluble, meaning your body needs dietary fat to access its benefits. Olive oil also has anti-inflammatory polyphenols that enhance this combo.
In addition to being classically delicious, this pairing helps lower LDL cholesterol, reduce oxidative stress, and support heart and skin health.
Try: Sliced tomatoes drizzled with olive oil, fresh basil, and sea salt
These aren’t “superfoods” you have to hunt down—just everyday ingredients used intentionally.
If you’re already choosing clean, gut-friendly foods… this is the next level.
And if you haven’t downloaded my Food Toxins Hiding in Plain Sight guide yet, it includes a whole section on food synergy, plus simple swaps and clean recipes to help you eat for gut health, energy, and detox.
Download her PDF: https://laurafrontiero.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Food-Toxins-Hiding-in-Plain-Sight.pdf