Natural Superfoods You MUST Try….

 

There is always some hype or new ‘healthy food’ craze going on, first it was the goji berry and now its ‘quinoa’ , we had a look at why some of these foods have been stamped “Superfoods”

 

 

 

Chia Seeds – Are native to South America and have been a staple in Mayan and Aztec diets for centuries. They have drawn  the interest of the West in recent times for their many health benefits and uses in cooking.

Contains : Protein, Omega 3, Fibre,Vitamins and Anti-Oxidants

Use: Add to puddings, salad dressing, muffins or just soak a teaspoon or two overnight in water and drink!

Benefits : Improved heart health, Combat diabetes, control tummy fat and its gluen and allergen free

 

 

 

 

 

Maca – An ancient Peruvian superfood belonging to the ‘radish’ family, was used by Incan warriors to increase stamina, boost libido and combat fatigue.

Contains: Vitamins,Calcum, Zinc,Iron

Use: In herbal teas or desserts or add to baked goods

Benefits: Increased energy, reduces symptoms of PMS and menopause, balances hormones & increases fertility

 

 

 

 

 

Hemp Seeds – Hemp seeds come from the same hemp plant renowned for its durable fiber, a varietal of the Cannabis plant.

Contains: Proteins, Essential fatty acids, Omega 3’s

Use: Add to smoothies for a ‘nutty’ taste, sprinkle over salads, as a topping on granola or use in baking or cooking

Benefits: Is an anti-inflammatory, lowers bad cholesterol, promotes healthy hair,skin & nails

 

 

 

 

 

Bee Pollen – The ancient Greeks and Romans referred to it as “life giving dust”, made by the bee and the food of young bees. It is often referred to as Ambrosia.

Contains: Proteins, Amino Acids, more than 15 Vitamins & 28 essential minerals

Use: Great in desserts or smoothies instead of sugar, add to yoghurt, use in brownies

Benefits: Stimulates & restores ovarian function, boosts immune system, effective in treating respiratory problems

 

 

 

 

 

Quinoa – A species of goosefoot, a grain like crop, belonging to the same family as those other ‘superfoods’ spinach and swiss chard.

Contains: Proteins, Fibre, Magnesium,Iron and Phosphorous. Is Gluten free.

Use: as a substitute for rice or pasta, as a replacement for cous cous in tabouleh, it pairs well with vegetables and cheese

Health Benefit: Mental clarity, regulates blood sugar, improved memory,improved muscle function

 

 

As we all move in the direction of ‘healthy living’ and our produce contains more and more preservatives and additives that reduce their nutritional value, it is comforting that there are still these little champions of goodness available to us.

 

The UN has declared 2013, the International Year of Quinoa, saying much about the nutritional value of this little seed.

 

Though the above superfoods contain the health benefits described, it is important that you consult a health practitioner before use,.