Karen Mclean, the woman behind Dubai-based food blog Secret Squirrel reveals her four favourite health foods

1.Cinnamon

I love to sprinkle cinnamon on my breakfast in the mornings. Studies have shown that cinnamon stabilises blood sugar levels.

2.Chia seeds

These tiny little seeds are packed full of essential Omega 3 fatty acids and chia puddings make a very nutritious breakfast. I like to mix 3 tablespoons of chia seeds with 1 cup of milk and ¼ teaspoon vanilla bean paste and soak overnight. Then, in the morning, I layer it with fresh fruit and granola.

3.Dates

We are very spoilt in the Middle East as there are plenty of different varieties of dates available. Each variety is unique and has a different flavour and texture. Dates are the perfect natural alternative to refined sugar

4.Coconut oil

This makes a great healthy alternative for butter or vegetable oil and increases the metabolism.

To find out more about Karen Mclean head over to secretsquirrelfood.com