The term “superfoods” has been circulating a lot lately and many people are wondering what exactly it means. Superfoods are the most potent, concentrated and nutrient-rich foods on the planet. Think of them as supermen and superwomen that help your immune system flourish, while fighting for your health and destroying free radicals. They can also help with elevating serotonin production, cleansing organs and even improving hormone function.
Here are my favorite superfoods that are easy to add to your daily meals.
1. Cacao (Raw Chocolate)
Cacao is one of the highest antioxidant foods on the planet. It’s rich in antioxidants, magnesium, iron and manganese. Raw chocolate can help improve cardiovascular health, build strong bones, act as a natural aphrodisiac, elevate your mood and increase energy. Try making my raw cacao brownies and cookie dough. Video below!
2. Goji Berries
Goji berries have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years and can sometimes be regarded as a longevity and strength-building food. Goji berries contain 18 kinds of amino acids, including all eight essential amino acids, up to 21 trace minerals, high amounts of antioxidants, iron, polysaccharides and vitamins B and E. Sprinkle a few berries on your smoothie, morning cereal or salad for a nutritional punch.
3. Maca
This adaptogenic superfood has been a staple in Peru for centuries as it helps to increase energy, endurance, strength and even boost libido. It can also help balance hormones and relieve hot flashes. Dried maca powder contains protein, nearly 20 amino acids, including seven essential amino acids. If you want to try it out, start by adding a ¼ teaspoon to your morning smoothie and see how it makes you feel. You may find that you don’t need your morning coffee anymore!
4. Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds are packed with protein, iron, amino acids and vitamin E as well as omega-3 essential fatty acids. Omega-3s can help with healthy brain function. They’ve also been shown to combat inflammation. Hemp is also the perfect food for both children and adults looking to increase protein intake. Sprinkle some hemp seeds on your salad or just eat them as a protein-rich snack.
5. Algae (spirulina and chlorella)
Spirulina and chlorella provide a vast array of minerals, trace elements, phytonutrients and enzymes. Chlorella is also known for ridding your body of heavy metals and purifying blood. I like to add a teaspoon of chlorella to my smoothies or take a few chlorella pills in the morning on an empty stomach.
6. Astaxantin
Astaxantin is a carotenoid that comes from microalgae. It helps fight the damage of sunrays and acts as a natural sunblock. I take it in supplement pill form if I’ve had too much sun exposure or right before spending time out in the sun.
7. Camu Berry
Camu camu is fruit that grows in South America, known for having the highest recorded amount of vitamin C. It’s great for enhancing immunity and boosting energy. I like to add a ¼ teaspoon of camu camu to water and take it as an anti-oxidant shot when I feel run down.
8. Sea Vegetables (Kelp, Dulse, Nori, Hijiki, Bladderwrack, etc.)
Power-packed with nutrients, sea vegetables help rid your body of heavy metals and radioactive iodine and provide numerous trace minerals. Seaweeds are especially good for the thyroid and hormone function. To add more sea veggies into your diet, simply sprinkle some dry kelp or dulse on your food. They have a salty taste and are a great replacement for table salt.
9. Medicinal Mushrooms (Reish, Shaga, Cordyceps maitake, shiitake, etc.)
Medicinal mushrooms are terrific adaptogenic superfoods. They are perfect for boosting your immune system and supporting your adrenal glands in times of stress. When I feel stressed, I like to take a few capsules of Mushroom Optimizer Blend (sold at Whole Foods Market) that features several kinds of medicinal mushrooms.
10. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains medium chain triglycerides, which can be easily used for energy, as well as support your thyroid function and boost your metabolism. It is also known for its anti-fungal properties, which can help kill harmful pathogens. Add a few teaspoons of coconut to your morning smoothie for an extra boost of energy, put it on small cuts or simply use coconut oil instead of lotion.
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About Alina Z.
Alina Z., aka “The Green Goddess,” is a certified holistic health coach, detox specialist and raw-food chef (she conducts occasional classes at Whole Foods in Boca). Prior to moving to Florida, Alina hosted her own TV show in Maryland—“Entertaining A to Z”—for people who didn’t have time to cook but wanted to eat healthy. Catch one of her web episodes at eHow.com, visit Alina’s website at alinaz.com, or follow her on Facebook (facebook.com/CoutureFood) or Twitter (@CoutureFood). The Green Goddess blog runs every other Wednesday at bocamag.com.
