10 Superfoods You Should Be Eating

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Tuesday, 08 July 2014

superfoods_smoothies

Superfoods are a quick and easy way to get some serious nutrients into your body. Yet stepping into the world of superfoods can be a little intimidating. We get it. We’ve been there!

“How much will this cost me?”

“Do they taste good?”

“Which ones do I use?”

“Why do I need those weird things anyway?”

In short, superfoods are great for your body and great for our world. They are all natural and are filled with many nutrients that our bodies crave but don’t receive. And because they are all natural that means they are coming from hard working farmers who take care of their crops and the earth in sustainable ways. So, to help you transition into becoming a superfood user we made a list of the top 10 superfoods we love in green smoothies.

chia_seeds Chia Seeds

If you are looking for a green smoothie staple then you have come to the right place. These do-it-all superseeds are good for your head with their high content of omega fatty acids that increase healthy brain function, but have also proven to be good for your heart by fighting high cholesterol and heart disease. They even boast a wide variety of nutrients, such as: protein, fiber, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, iron, calcium and antioxidants. Use up to three tablespoons of chia seeds in your smoothie for a thick consistency and a mildly sweet flavor.

coconut_oil Coconut Oil

If you are exercising for weight loss then coconut oil will be an important ingredient for you. The fatty acids in this superfood fight body fat by converting into energy that boosts metabolism as opposed to saturated fats that add body fat. Use one tablespoon of coconut oil in your green smoothie for breakfast and you should notice less of yourself in the mirror in no time.

flaxseeds Flax Seeds

Flax seed is best known for its fatty acids and fiber. When talking about omega fatty acids it is better ask what they can’t do then what they can. This powder plays its part in proper cardiovascular and immune system health, brain function, joint function, soft skin, and more. The fiber in flax is also good for many things, but especially effective with eliminating toxins from your body. Add just one tablespoon of ground flaxseed or try whole seeds to your smoothie for a subtle, nutty flavor with more than subtle nutrition.

goji_berries Goji Berries

Perhaps one of the tastiest top ten treats, goji berries are known for their healing strength. The nutrients included in these berries are antioxidants and amino acids, but the real strength lies within their more than 20 vitamins and minerals. These precious nutrients have been used for centuries in Asian cultures to strengthen eyesight, fight against viruses, balance hormones, and even to assist with the longevity of life. Not feeling the best? Sweeten things up with 1/2 cup of these berries in your smoothie!

Spirulina

Of course, superfoods aren’t always made from glamorous plants. Sometimes they are made from pond algae, like Spirulina. Though its taste may be subpar, its high content of everything nutritious makes up for it. Spirulina’s top two ingredients are protein and omega fatty acids. We highly recommended it to anyone who has recently taken on the challenge to eat vegetarian. Use anywhere from one to two teaspoons of spirulina in your daily smoothie.

cacao_powder Cacao Powder and Nibs

Cacao is filled with two things that we love: antioxidants and chocolatey flavor! The antioxidants boost your immune system which helps to resist those nasty colds and sickness. The rich, chocolatey flavor is delicious and dessert-like which helps to resist those sugar cravings while still satisfying your sweet tooth. Blend two to four tablespoons of cacao powder with your daily smoothie and enjoy the warm flavors. Or sprinkle some cacao nibs on top for just a hint of goodness. Or both!

avocado Avocado

We always have avocados on our counter. They are a big part of our diet. We toss them in smoothies, make guacamole and constantly eat them by themselves. These green gems contain almost 20 vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds that will boost your smoothie real fast and make it extra creamy. They are loaded with heart-healthy fats that will keep your skin glowing and your tummy full longer.

hemp_protein Hemp Protein

At times it can be difficult to receive the proper amounts of protein and fiber that our bodies need in a healthy way. Hemp protein powder makes it a little easier boasting a whopping 50% protein content and much higher levels of fiber than soy-based protein powder. The hemp content is also kid friendly, as it encourages childhood growth through its amino acids. Athletes can also turn to this superfood for its ability to repair muscles. You can add one to four tablespoons of hemp protein, which has a much stronger taste. You can also buy hemp hearts and sprinkle one to two tablespoons of top of smoothies or add to your salads for a nutty, protein packed punch.

camu_powder Camu Powder

Camu is all about the “C” that it starts with… Vitamin C. Camu berries come from the Peruvian river regions and are packed with more vitamin C than any orange you’ll ever eat. Vitamin C has been linked with stronger immune systems and protection against viruses helping you fight off those nasty colds, and may even help to keep your skin healthy and vibrant. Camu powder’s tart taste works well with all kinds of fruits. You only need to add one teaspoon or so to your smoothies to achieve that perfect combination of tart and sweet.

acai Acai

A-what? This smooth superfood is popular for its mispronunciation (uh-sigh-ee), but even more popular for keeping you fiery and full. These Brazilian berries are loaded with antioxidants that boost your body’s energy and ability to focus. Their protein and fiber will also keep you feeling full making the Acai berry (or powder) a weight fighting superhero. Acai has a wide range of possibilities. Its creamy consistency and almost chocolatey flavor works well with both sweet and savory flavors by adding just one tablespoon to your smoothie.

Bringing superfoods into your green smoothies is really all about knowing how to use them and knowing what you need in your diet. It is important to find superfoods that enhance the flavor and consistency of your smoothies, and work with your mix, but just as important to incorporate the superfoods that give you the nutrients you are looking for. Nothing beats finding that perfect combination of taste and nutrition to help you eat healthy and help our world.

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