Functional Foods is FLIK’s monthly series that explores global foods, flavors, and culinary traditions from around the world. Instead of spotlighting one dish, we highlight everyday ingredients and pair them with chef-tested recipes and practical shopping tips so you can bring these fucntional food ideas into your kitchen.
This month: Foods of Mexico. The health benefits of traditional Mexican cuisine come from nutrient-dense Indigenous staples—corn, beans, squash, chiles, tomatoes, herbs, and fresh produce—that naturally support balanced eating. Corn prepared through nixtamalization (the traditional process used for tortillas and tamales) helps improve mineral absorption and boosts protein quality, while beans add plant-based protein and fiber to support steady blood sugar and heart health. Squash contributes vitamins and antioxidants, chiles provide anti-inflammatory compounds and vitamin C, and ingredients like avocado and nopales add heart-healthy fats and additional blood-sugar support.
Fact Checked by FLIK is our new monthly series in which our Registered Dietitians review trending nutrition headlines and translate the science into clear, useful guidance. Each article gives a straightforward verdict and practical takeaways, so you can separate hype from helpful information. All content is written by our Registered Dietitians and grounded in current scientific evidence so that you can trust the guidance.
This month: Supplemental Fiber. Our dietitians break down the latest claims, explain what the research actually says, and offer simple tips you can use in the café and at home. Read this month’s Fact Checked post.
