We all want to thrive, to glow with good health. And we all know that the best way to achieve it is by avoiding stress, exercising regularly and – most importantly – eating well. Are there perhaps superfoods we can eat?
So we do all the right things, like avoiding sugar and processed junk foods.
But have you considered that some superfoods actually do exist? Foods that are so nutrient-rich, they’re regarded by nutrition experts as “superfoods”?
And since these superfoods are now available at health stores and pharmacies, there’s no excuse for not eating them!
Top five superfoods
1. Chia seeds
The little chia seed is the proverbial stick of dynamite since it offers so much for your health. It’s naturally high in fibre and in plant proteins, it’s packed with omegas and plays a beneficial role in managing your cholesterol. It’s also high in calcium. Says nutrition expert Jessica Bruso: “A 1-ounce serving has 136 calories, 4.6 grams of protein, 11.8 grams of carbohydrates, and 8.6 grams of fat, almost all of which is healthy unsaturated fat.”
Blend it into your smoothies, stir it into your yoghurt snack – just make sure you’re eating at least a tablespoon a day.
2. Maca powder
Maca powder is made by grinding down the Peruvian Maca plant root. And there are a lot of good reasons to eat it (besides the fact that it tastes a lot like the delicious malt drinks you crave in winter):
- First off, it’s high in vitamins (namely the Bs and vitamin C).
- It’s also rich in vital minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, iodine and selenium (to name a few).
- It contains seven of the essential amino acids meaning that it’s a great food supplement for vegetarians who don’t get their amino acids from foods like beef and chicken.
Stir it into your yoghurt or add it to your smoothies.
3. Goji berries
They don’t look like much, all wrinkled up. But Goji berries pack some serious punch. They’re very high in vitamin C (goodbye, colds and flus!). And they’re also high in antioxidants, meaning they help you avoid cancer, heart disease and also the signs of ageing. They’re also rich in beta-carotene, which gives you skin a radiant glow.
They add tangy sweetness to your smoothies, salads and snacks. Alison Spiegel from the Huffington Post has some other great recipes to try with goji berries.
4. Acai berries
These, like the aforementioned Goji berries, should be a staple in your home.
Acai berries are packed full of anthocyanins – antioxidants renowned for their ability to fight cancer and heart disease. Plus, they contain oleic acid – the same fat that makes olive oil so very good for your heart.
5. Cacao powder
Cacao beans are used to make chocolate (yum!).
The only food that contains more antioxidants than cacao, is blue-green algae (or spirulina).
It’s also rich in magnesium – a nutrient that is essential for a healthy heart. Plus, it contains serotonin and dopamine, which naturally boost your mood.
It lowers blood pressure and improves circulation thanks to the flavonoids it contains.
What’s not to like? Simply stir it into your coffee, your smoothies or your yoghurt.
Need any more reasons to stock up on these amazing superfoods?
We didn’t think so.
Contact Trifocus Fitness Academy
Because we know that you know, that good nutrition is the key to wellness. And if you’re passionate about wellness – especially nutrition – then take a look at the Specialised Nutrition Certification offered by Trifocus Fitness Academy.
