These days, it can seem like there’s a new superfood being touted as a ‘miracle healer’ every other week.
However, there are foods that pack a powerful, nutrient-dense punch, they really can be classified as ‘super’.
You don’t have to fork out wads of money for these foods – some can be found sitting in your pantry, or can be pieced together from your leftovers!
Whether you’re a superfood nut or just looking to sneak some more nutrients into your family’s diet, the following 7 superfoods live up to the hype surrounding them, and are worth looking in to:
1) Baobab
This exotic, South-African fruit has been used for centuries and usually comes in powdered form, perfect for mixing into bliss balls, porridge and smoothies.
You’ve heard people rave about the antioxidant content of acai – well Baobab is twice as rich in antioxidants and a fantastic immune booster, thanks to its high Vitamin C content.
It’s also full of fibre, making it perfect for those looking to improve their gut health.
2) Turmeric
It’s not exactly new, and you will find it sitting in the back of your pantry, but don’t let that fool you into thinking of turmeric as plain and boring.
Turmeric contains curcumin, a substance with incredible anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Numerous studies are being conducted to research the links between increased turmeric consumption and brain health, as many researchers believe turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties could be beneficial for warding off brain issues later in life.
Many people also take curcumin supplements to ease symptoms of arthritis. Try experimenting with turmeric based curries, or even trying out a turmeric latte: turmeric, cinnamon and hot milk. It may sound wacky, but it a tasty alternative to your morning latte and you’ll reap the benefits!
3) Kombucha
This black tea is the latest craze to sweep hipster cafés, with many now offering Kombucha on tap.
However, this superfood is hardly a new discovery – it has been popular in Asia for thousands of years, and no wonder: it’s a fermented tea full of probiotics. This means it is fantastic for increasing the good bacteria in your gut and easing symptoms of an unbalanced gut such as bloating and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
If you’re lactose intolerant, Kombucha also makes a great yoghurt substitute. If the thought of brewing your own puts you off, look for the pre-bottled variety at health food stores.
4) Maca
Maca has been around for a while now and usually comes in a powdered form – you’ve probably seen it sold at your local supermarket, and every insta-foodie seems to be putting it in their green smoothie.
There’s a reason this superfood is loved by many – it’s an energy booster, and packed full of iron and vitamin C, doubling as an immune booster.
Maca is a Peruvian root that is ground into powder, and is often used by women to ease symptoms of PMS.
It has an excellent nutty flavour, so picky eaters will love having this mixed into muffins, bliss balls or disguised in a fruit smoothie.
5) Bone broth
Yes, it may sound a bit ‘cave-man’, but bone broth is rich in bone-building minerals like calcium and magnesium, and is also a great source of glutamine, which promotes gut-healing.
If you’re suffering from symptoms of an irritable bowel, bone broth could be the perfect, nutrient-filled snack for you. It’s also cheap and easy to make – simply slow cook leftover bones from large roasts, like lamb shanks, overnight.
6) Teff
Teff is a gluten-free grain (gluten-free folks rejoice!) that is usually ground into a flour, and has more protein than wheat, along with calcium, iron and fibre. It is perfect for thickening stews and soups, and making polenta dishes.
7) Miso
Another superfood you’ll find sitting on the shelf at your local supermarket, miso is a cheap but filling, healthy snack.
It’s another fermented food, so it will greatly benefit your gut health, particular if you’re suffering from gastrointestinal discomfort. It’s also full of amino acids and vitamins, as well as immune-boosting antioxidants.
It’s no coincidence that this is a dietary staple in Japan, where people regularly enjoy the world’s longest life spans. Be sure to check the ingredient list – instant miso powders are often full of sugar and preservatives, which should be avoided.
Remember that incorporating one superfood into your diet won’t make up for your less than healthy habits, like a diet full of processed foods – they’re not that super!
Start slowly and build up on the superfoods that appeal most to you. You can find them at your local health food store or even your supermarket’s health aisle!
For more information on superfoods and where to find them, you can visit here.
Have you tried any of these superfoods? Can you suggest any others? Please share with us below.
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