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Nutrient-rich foods that positively affect health are often given 'superfood' status. These 'superfoods' offer essential nutrients that can power-pack your meals and snacks and provide the additional health benefits and energy we need to nourish ourselves. Supercharge your diet with one of these superfoods that are simple to add yet significant on gifts.
Powdered greens
It's no secret that most people don't eat enough vegetables, and green powders make it even easier for you to hit your five-a-day. Combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, green powders can support overall wellness. They are typically high in vitamins A and C to help support immune function and contain probiotics for digestive health.
Acai
In the same family as blueberries, dried acai berries are rich in antioxidants and properties that boost the immune system. Adding a serving of acai to your porridge or smoothie can dramatically increase the number of antioxidants in your blood, according to researchers at Texas A&M University.
Flax seeds
Prized for their health-protective properties, flax seeds are loaded with plant omega-3s. This rich source of omega-3 fatty acid ALA promotes good heart health and is linked to lowering the risk of a stroke. It contains two types of dietary fiber, soluble and insoluble, to promote regular bowel movements and improve digestive health. Ideal for those on a vegetarian or vegan diet, flax seeds are a great plant-based protein source for people who don't eat meat.
Maca powder
Maca, a Peruvian root, is usually used in powdered form. Low in calories with high vitamin C, potassium, and copper levels, boost your energy with maca powder and help keep your hormones balanced. It's also said to reduce blood pressure and support fertility. An excellent vegan source of iron, just one 5g teaspoon provides nearly 10% of the RDA for women and men.
Turmeric
Packed with the bioactive compound curcumin, turmeric is cited as one of the most potent herbs for fighting and potentially reversing disease. This distinctive yellow powder has been used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda for centuries, promising plenty of health benefits. It's said to prevent blood clots, reduce depression symptoms, fight inflammation, boost skin health, and help alleviate arthritic pain.
Chia
Chia seeds are full of essential nutrients. Rich in antioxidants, they are an excellent protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and calcium source. They also contain a large percentage of your daily intake of magnesium.
Matcha
Part of the green tea family, yet more of a concentrated powder than dried leaves, matcha is higher in caffeine and loaded with an amino acid called L-theanine. The compound L-theanine is associated with increased focus, alertness, and sustained energy.
Spirulina
Among the world's most popular supplements, spirulina contains various nutrients and antioxidants that can benefit your body and brain. A blue-green alga, it's high in protein, vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium and iron. Spirulina is also a fantastic source of antioxidants. It protects against oxidative damage, which can harm your DNA and cells.
Baobab
The fruit of the baobab tree, the plant-based superfood baobab powder, is high in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C. It not only releases sugars that regularise energy levels but benefits your digestive health too. It's believed to support the immune system, general hydration and skin health. A study by Oxford Brookes University found that when baobab fruit extract was baked into bread, it reduced starch digestion and glycaemic response.
Chlorella
Rich in carotenoids, this nutrient-dense alga can help rid the body of toxins. It helps to enhance the body's natural ability to clear toxins by weakening the heavy metal toxicity of the liver, brain, and kidneys. Nutrients like niacin, fiber, carotenoids, and antioxidants in chlorella may also help lower your cholesterol levels.
