July 19, 2018
Superfoods!
This is such a fun subject for me. It is just amazing what the right foods can do for your body.
I am going to cover the top four superfoods I use most often:
Cacao
First, and most fun is Cacao, no not cocoa. Cacao is from the raw cacao bean. It is processed in a way to preserve nutrients and flavour. It has massive antioxidant power (think anti-cancer). Cacao can improve your mood, help with blood flow, constipation, and menstrual cramps. It contains good levels of magnesium (which most Americans are deficient in) iron, vitamin C, zinc (enhances immune system) and fiber! Cacao beans also contain compounds that can trigger weight loss. Be sure to take note that cacao is not the same as eating a chocolate bar. A chocolate bar is made of cocoa where the nutrients are not preserved and it won’t provide these amazing health benefits. I typically use cacao in my smoothies but it can be substituted for cocoa whenever it is called for.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are quite versatile making them an easy superfood to consume. These little seeds are rich in Omega 3, antioxidants, fiber, and protein. They can be added to yogurt, sprinkled on salad, desserts, and sandwiches. Chia seed pudding is a nutritious dessert that you can find a quick recipe for online. Chia seeds can also be used as an egg replacement as they gel up and help bind when combined with water.
Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage. Fermentation is a process that among other things adds beneficial bacteria to foods or beverages. This process helps keep the gut healthy, increases immunity, emotional health, vitamin absorption and digestion. Now you can find kombucha in the refrigerators with other beverages at most grocery stores.
Red Cabbage
Red Cabbage may not seem quite as exciting as the rest but it really can be. Red cabbage can help support the benefits from kombucha by feeding the good gut bacteria kombucha provides. It is high in L-glutamine which supports and repairs the intestinal lining. It is helpful for conditions including Crohn’s disease, celiac, and IBS. My favourite way to eat red cabbage is in coleslaw. It can also be sliced and sprinkled with olive oil and roasted for a delicious side to any meal.
These are just four of the superfoods, look up more and create fun nutrient rich meals for your family!
