Superfood. The word itself sounds powerful…and it is!
What is a superfood you may ask? By definition, a superfood is: “a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being.” [ref. Oxford Languages]
Many whole foods consist of healthy properties, but there are certain foods in our world that are extremely rich in nutrients. Add these three into your daily routine (or a few times a week to start) and you will love them:
Organic Spirulina Powder
Spirulina is a powerful green superfood that has been on the earth for over 3.5 billion years. It is rich in iron, acts as a plant-based protein, packed with vitamins and minerals, is a great source of antioxidants, and stimulates beneficial flora in the digestive tract to promote healthy digestion and proper bowel function. Spirulina also acts as a detoxifier; it helps remove not only heavy metals but also other toxins from the liver, intestinal tract, brain, nervous system and thyroid. It contains beta-carotene, which helps support eye health, reduce allergic rhinitis, lowers nasal congestion and swelling with allergies, and so much more.
You can easily add spirulina to your smoothies, baked goods, savoury snacks, or fresh juices!
Non-Fortified Nutritional Yeast
Nutritional yeast is a source of vitamins (high B Vitamins!), minerals, dietary fiber, it is a complete protein, gluten free and is great for gut health. This is a favourite amongst vegans because of the nutty cheesy flavour and protein. You want to make sure that you opt for the non-fortified version; say goodbye to synthetic additives!
Three tablespoons of nutritional yeast give you 8 grams of protein, 40% of daily Iron intake, 600% of daily Vitamin B6 intake, 90% of daily Vitamin B3 intake, 700% of Vitamin B5 intake, and more. Wow. Look at how incredible these values are! You can throw this into juices or smoothies, or use it as seasoning for salads, salad dressings, soups, meat/fish, and more!
Turmeric
Turmeric, the bright yellow-orange spice, has gained a lot of popularity in the last handful of years. If you visit a local café, there are chances you can now buy golden milk lattes featuring the lovely turmeric.
This spice has been used in India for thousands of years – in food and medicine – and science has now been backing up the traditional claims of its medicinal properties. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and its defense against Alzheimer’s disease and cancer.
In order to experience the full health effects of turmeric, it is best to take it with black pepper, which helps enhance the absorption of curcumin (the main active ingredient in turmeric).
You can toss turmeric into your cooking, smoothies, or golden milk lattes. Get your hands on this wonderful spice (but not literally because your hands might stain yellow for a bit haha)! Cheers to your health and incorporating superfoods.