I was standing in line at the supermarket. I overheard the cutest conversation between a toddler and his mom. “You know you are what you eat. Ms. Roth told us this today. So I am going to eat fish and swim across the ocean because I can”. He’s on the right track, I thought!
Fish, a “superfood” is a healthy, high-protein food, especially important for its omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential “good” fats that our bodies don’t produce on their own. Raw nuts and seeds also make up an important part of a healthy diet. They help you reach your recommended intake of protein as well as count toward your daily fat allowance. And fruits and vegetables provide you with rich nutrients that help to fight against many diseases.
But, I would bet that there are other “superfoods” that you may not be as familiar with and they will give you more energy, good skin and boost your energy levels too. So, what are they and how do they work? Here are a few that make the top of the list:
MACA POWDER- This is a complete protein and rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, and other essential vitamins and minerals. It provides an energy boost, but it's not a stimulant (like caffeine), so it won't leave you jittery and anxious. Maca’s radish-like root is typically dried and ground into a powder that has a caramel, or malty, flavor. You can find it online, in health food stores, and even in some supermarkets. Maca adapts to what the body needs and has a balancing effect. As a result, it helps to maintain equilibrium and balance stress levels. It may alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety as well. Maca may also help with hormone balance. Research has found that it can reduce hot flashes and night sweats in postmenopausal women. It can also help manage PMS symptoms. So, how do you use it? You can drink it warm made with your favorite nut milk or sprinkle some into your morning coffee. You can also make an iced-maca or add it to your smoothies or your granola. Just a word of caution, use ¼ to ½ teaspoon at first so you don’t overwhelm your digestive system.
CACAO POWDER- Not a hershey’s chocolate bar, cacao (or cocoa) powder is a by-product of the dried, fermented seed from the fruit of the cocoa tree. It's what gives chocolate its distinctive taste, although cacao itself isn't naturally sweet. Research has shown that cacao can help protect the aging brain, protect nerves from inflammation and injury, and help lower blood pressure and heart disease risk. It is easy to incorporate cacao into your diet by adding it to smoothies, desserts and nut butters.
CHIA SEEDS- These tiny but mighty seeds are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including omega-3 fatty acids associated with preventing heart disease. Chia seeds show promise in treating diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammation, depression, anxiety. Chia seeds are considered a complete protein and their high fiber content can help you stay regular and might keep you feeling full longer, staving off hunger between meals. I love to add them to smoothies, cereal, and juices for a fiber and nutrient boost. Click here for a great chia seed smoothie.
These are only just a few “SUPERFOODS” that will help you to feel great all over. Of course there are many more and for more information and to learn how to feel your best self, contact me at rachel@livehealthynyc.com