Okay, let’s keep it SIMPLE. Superfoods are a special category of nutrient-rich foods considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being. By definition, they are sparse in calories and dense in nutrients, meaning they pack a lot of punch for their weight. They are superior sources of antioxidants and essential nutrients we need but cannot make ourselves. They have been linked to combating auto immune disorders, cancer and depression. Along with protecting your body from free radicals!!
The most important thing for everyone to know is that superfoods are easy to find in every local supermarket and local farmers markets. They’re worth looking for and incorporating into your nutritional plan! Do an Internet search and you will find a number of “top 10 superfood” lists. Be sure to validate their reliability. In the meantime, here is a very short list of some of my favorites!!
1) Apples
2) Blueberries
3) Beets
4) Avocados
5) Kale, Spinach, Swiss Chard
6) Kiwi Fruit
7) Lentils
8) Sweet Potatoes
9) Walnuts
10) Wild Salmon
These nutritional, powerhouse foods are loaded with nutrients crucial to a healthy, long life.
I have also included a few of my favorite superfoods that you may or may not have tried:
Chia Seeds:
Ancient cultures throughout Central America have long enjoyed chia seeds as a key part of their food and medicine. The seeds were even used as currency. Chia seeds (http://www.sunfood.com/chia-seeds-1lb-organic-raw.html) are loaded with omega fats, protein, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. They have a mild nutty flavor and, since they absorb liquid, they’re ideal for hydration and feeling full.
Hemp Seed:
Hemp is a well-balanced, vegetarian protein source that includes all of the essential amino acids. Not only is hemp one of the best veggie sources of protein, it’s easy for the body to digest and assimilate. Hemp also features plenty of other nutrients, including abundant fiber, chlorophyll, vitamins, and omega-3 and -6 essential fatty acids. Sprinkle hemp seeds (http://www.sunfood.com/nuts-seeds/hemp-seeds/hemp-seeds-shelled-1lb-raw-organic.html) on salads and add them to smoothies for added protein. Just 3 tablespoons of hemp seeds will add 11 grams of protein to your smoothie.
Raw Cacao Nibs: Nature’s chocolate chips
Cacao nibs (http://www.sunfood.com/food/cacao-chocolate-cocoa/cacao-nibs-1lb-organic-raw.html) are made from pure cacao beans that come straight out of the tropical cacao fruit. Cacao was a culinary treasure to Mesoamericans for thousands of years and touted as the “Food of the Gods” for its superior nutritional profile and exceptional flavor. Make a trail mix with shredded coconut, raw cacao nibs, dried cranberries, and a nut of your choice.
Maca:
Maca is a potent, ancient Peruvian superfood highly prized by Incan warriors to increase stamina, boost libido, and combat fatigue. The maca root was prized throughout the Incan empire for its adaptogenic-like qualities that enable it to nourish and balance the body’s delicate endocrine system and to help cope with stress. It also energizes naturally, without the jitters and crashes of caffeine, and it can aid in reproductive function, helping to balance hormones and increase fertility. Add maca (http://www.sunfood.com/food/maca/maca-16-oz-1lb-raw-organic.html) to smoothies for an extra energy boost!
Maqui Powder:
The purple Chilean maqui berry is one of the most antioxidant-rich foods. It contains an abundance of vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium, anti-aging anthocyanins and polyphenols, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Sunfood Maqui Powder (http://www.sunfood.com/food/maqui-berry/maqui-berry-powder-8oz-organic-raw.html) has a tart, fruity flavor that’s a delicious addition to juices, smoothies, and desserts.
Goji Berries:
Goji Berries provide a number of important macronutrients, including carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and soluble fiber. There’s even more to this sweet, little, red berry including 18 amino acids, free-radical fighting antioxidants, carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and more than 20 other trace minerals and vitamins including zinc, iron, phosphorus, and riboflavin (B2). Ounce-for-ounce, goji berries (http://www.sunfood.com/food/goji-berries/goji-berries-1-lb-organic-raw.html) contain more vitamin C than oranges, more beta-carotene than carrots, and more iron than soybeans and spinach. Munch on these goodies as your afternoon snack.
Give one of these superfoods a try today to super charge your day!
Yours in health and happiness,
Kasey