9 Superfoods for a Super 2015
On this blog, I like to investigate food as medicine and eating for health. One recurring theme on healthy eating is the term superfoods. Most of these seem to have similar characteristics like a good source for Omega 3 or powerful antioxidants. This guest post investigates.
Every year there seems to be a brand new ‘hot’ food that is the latest trend in the word of clean eats and is branded a ‘superfood’. In past trends, there were goji berries, shiitake mushrooms and asparagus, but what is set to be the next big superfood in 2015? Here is a list:
1. Incaberries
(image: What Cook)
Incaberries are the latest superfruit to come out of South America. They are hailed as the next big thing thanks to their nutritious content of phosphorus and vitamins A, C and B12. Plus they’re packed with protein, making them the perfect bite-sized snack to keep you going.
2. Charcoal
Okay, so it may seem a tad odd to eat charcoal, but bear with us as it is actually very good for you in small doses. Charcoal has been used for thousands of years as a way of cleansing the body, and despite its dark shade, it is surprisingly brilliant for teeth whitening.
Try charcoal-infused smoothies or fruit juices for a morning detox and pick-me-up.
3. Black Rice
Your palette is probably well acquainted with pilau, basmati and wholegrain rice, but did you know that the best for your health is called black rice? This dark rice is more nutritious than other forms; it is high in iron, full of protein and it’s a great antioxidant.
4. Kelp
Sea kelp, similar to seaweed, is brilliant for those with thyroid issues, as it is a natural source of iodine which improves function. Kelp also boosts metabolism and prevents calories from being stored in the body as fat, making it highly popular with those trying to shed a few pounds.
5. Salmon
Salmon has long been a favourite among foodies thanks to its high level of Omega-3 and healthy fish oils which benefit the heart. But it is also nutritionally dense with high protein levels, vitamins and minerals.
Take a look at the smoked salmon mousse and avocado sandwich recipe on this blog for inspiration on how to serve it.
6. Hemp Seeds
Full of protein and a great source of Omega-3, hemp seeds make tasty additions to homemade baked goods, smoothies and salads.
7. Chlorophyll
You may remember chlorophyll from your school science classes. It is a green pigment found in plants that absorbs sunlight to help them synthesise, but plants aren’t the only living things that use it – we do too!
Chlorophyll is very similar to haemoglobin, and therefore when ingested it can do the same job. Chlorophyll will rebuild and replenish red blood cells, giving you more energy.
8. Freekeh
Freekeh is a green wheat cereal food that is high in fibre and protein, as well as calcium, iron, zinc and potassium. Substituted for rice or pasta, it will leave you feeling fuller for longer thanks to a low GI.
9. Matcha
Matcha are natural green tea leaves which are much richer in antioxidants than your regular green teas. Matcha is full of vitamins and minerals, can boost your metabolism, and can detoxify and strengthen your immune system, among many other health benefits. This is as ‘super’ as tea is going to get!
(image: Koumei Matcha under CC BY-SA 4.0)
Other foods and drinks to look out for this year include bee pollen, banana flour, farro, oat milk and barberries.
Not only do most of these foods have great health benefits but they taste super too; you’ll be feeling great in no time if you stock up on these little nutritious delights. Are there any other superfoods that you like that have not been listed here? Do share in the comments below.
This a guest post by : John Ross Jr. is a family run business with nearly 30 years of experience selling high quality Scottish smoked salmon and other fine foods. They’re appointed to Her Majesty The Queen’s fish merchants and curers, so you know that their products must be good!
