Perfect Pairings

It’s a pretty sure thing that singer Jack Johnson did not have apples and bananas in mind when he created his hit song, “Better Together,” a lovey-dovey tribute to a special someone.  But health experts say that’s exactly the idea when it comes to eating certain foods in pairs—they are just better for you when they’re together.
 
A balanced diet is always an important factor in healthy living, but nutritionists say you can make the most of the calories you are eating by knowing how to pair them.  Read on for tips on which of your favorite foods should go on a date to your tummy.

*Iron and Vitamin C: When paired together, these two promote healthy organ and immune system function. Try iron-boasting spinach and edamame, paired with vitamin C-filled oranges, grapefruit, strawberries and tomatoes, like a spinach salad topped with mandarin oranges.
 
*Fat and Carotenoids: The antioxidant benefits of carotenoids mixed with a little fat has huge cancer risk-reducing abilities. Mix tomatoes, yellow peppers, carrots and greens with a bit of olive oil, and you’re good to go!
 
*Red Wine and Vitamin E: The resveratrol found in vitamin E and red wine will promote a healthy heart and also aid in fighting cancer because of the increased antioxidant content. Red wine with a side of almonds is a good match, and so is sangria with mango and kiwi.
 
*Green Tea and Vitamin C: The vitamin C will help green tea's antioxidants be better absorbed and stick around even after digestion, promoting cancer, heart attack and stroke prevention. A cool iced green tea with sliced fruit is a healthy, disease-fighting option, especially on a warm summer day!
 
We want to know: What is your favorite vitamin-packed food pairing? [CBS News]