Cacao and cacao nibs – Who knew chocolate could be so healthy? Since coming across cacao a few years ago there was no looking back, I love it and would have to say it is my favourite superfood! It is naturally sugar free, packed with powerful antioxidants and essential fats. It also lowers insulin resistance, protects your nervous system and boosts your mood! I love making raw brownies, bliss balls and chocolate with it. Even just a sprinkle over some yoghurt can tame those chocolate cravings!
Greens – Wheatgrass, chlorella, moringa and spirulina powders all have an abundance of benefits for the human body. Super green powders are high in chlorophyll which helps remove toxins from the blood system and boost the immune system. They are all a rich source of vitamins, antioxidants, proteins, enzymes and amino acids! I tend to mix 1x tablespoon of super greens with a splash of apple cider vinegar and water in the morning.
Bee pollen – Comes from the pollen that collects on the bodies of the bees. It is a complete food containing fats, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals. It is richer in proteins that any animal source and contains more amino acids than most animal protein sources. It is a great natural energiser and can be enjoyed in a smoothie or can be sprinkled over a bowl of porridge or yoghurt.
Matcha – Matcha green tea powder originates from Japan where they have been using it for thousands of years. Only in the last couple of years has it really become popular in the western world. Matcha green tea has 137 more antioxidants to normal green tea. The caffeine gives you an energy boost and increases your metabolism which can help torch away that stubborn fat! It is rich in fibre, vitamins and chlorophyll which helps detoxify the body. I love drinking a cup of matcha green tea in the mornings or even a matcha latte with unsweetened almond milk!
Goji berries – Goji berries as like all berries are very high in antioxidants, vitamins C and A. They are also low in calories, fat free and packed with fibre. I like to graze on them raw and by themselves however they can be enjoyed in raw treats and over porridge. I keep a bag in my top draw at work, so that I never get tempted by all the other rubbish snacks going around the office.
Chia seeds – Chia seeds are high in omega 3 fatty acids, fibre and protein which aid in digestion, boosting energy and stabilising blood sugar levels. They are so easy to add to your daily diet too which is why I love them, you can just about sprinkle them on everything! Soak them over night in some water or almond milk with cinnamon or vanilla powder to make a delicious chia seed breakfast bowl. Then add yoghurt, berries, nuts and raw honey to the final product for a quick nutritious breakfast on the run!
Maca – Maca is a nutritionally dense superfood. It is rich in vitamin B, vitamins C and E. It helps balance hormones and can increase sexual function of both male and females. One of the best maca benefits is that it’s an adaptogen which helps the body to adapt to different kinds of stresses from menstrual issues and menopause to muscle gain and stamina. Sprinkle over salads, mix into yoghurt and smoothies or include it in hot foods.