Nettles have been given a bad rep because of their nasty sting and the misconception that the plant is nothing more than a weed. Be Nice to Nettles Week (May 17-28) aims to change all that by making people aware of the many benefits of this abundant plant.
Most people are not aware that nettles are in fact extremely good for you. Nettle soup and nettle tea make the most of the various vitamins and minerals found in the much-maligned plant.
Don't be put off if you see nettle soup on the menu in a restaurant. The plant has long been linked with health benefits and is full of iron, calcium, vitamins C, A and E and is a well known anti-inflammatory. Nettles are also thought to be beneficial to sufferers of eczema, arthritis and gout.

The health merits of roasted coffee have been much debated, but few people give thought to the humble bean in its raw form. Research has in fact linked raw green coffee beans (or coffee made from raw beans) with increased metabolism, allowing the body to burn fat quicker and therefore aid weight loss.

Fresh tomatoes are well known as a cancer-fighting fruit, but now research has found that tinned tomatoes may pack a superfood punch all of its own. The heat used in the canning process reportedly increases the antioxidant level by as much as 500%. And, of course, they still contain lots of lycopene, the nutrient thought to prevent us against various types of cancer.

Rejoice! The (moderate) consumption of ale has been linked with various health benefits, most notably decreased risk of heart disease, stroke and mental illness. Ale is in fact a rich source of nutrients thanks to the yeast used in the beer making process and is thought to contain high levels of magnesium, selenium, potassium and B vitamins. Just don't overdo it, otherwise you could end up with cirrhosis, which is definitely not 'super'.

Cinnamon is much more than just a spice used to add flavour to food. Research carried out at the US Department of Agriculture found that cinnamon increases metabolism and helps to enhance insulin activity and lower blood sugar levels.

No it is not a horrible type of worm, but a potent form of algae called spirulina which is outrageously good for you. Spirulina and other types of algae contain the highest known concentration of the antioxidant beta-carotene and is also high in B vitamins, protein, iron and immune-system boosting amino acids. You can buy it in tablet, powder or juice form.

Chocolate with a cocoa content higher than 70% is often linked with health benefits, but research has shown that a nutrient removed from cocoa in the chocolate making process could be the real key to health. Epicatechin was found to lower the risk of stroke, heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Raw cocoa tastes bitter but a team of scientists found that among the Kuna people of Panama, who drink up to 40 cups of cocoa per week, rates of the above diseases are as low as 10%.

This bright green sushi condiment does more than just use its natural spiciness to clear your nasal passages. Research shows that wasabi may also inhibit the growth of cancer cells, prevent blood clots and could even prevent tooth decay. (Wandaful, did a bit on the humble WASABI,once)!