Suppose you are focusing on a plant-based diet and are looking for unique foods that are packed with nutrients and will give you more energy, look no further than this list. You may be familiar with all of the popular foods now, such as kale and coconut oil, but the foods on this list are not as well-known and yet readily available at most natural health food stores.
You don’t have to be vegan or vegetarian to enjoy the superfoods on this list, but the fact is that 9.7 million Americans now are adopting a plant-based diet, so exploring the wondrous ways that these plants can boost your health may put you ahead of the trend.
But what is a Superfood anyway? A superfood is a food that packs in the maximum nutrients, antioxidants, and health benefits for minimal calories. Suppose there is fat or a large number of calories in a superfood, such as a coconut. In that case, it usually is in the category of superfood because of the reported health benefits of these fats or there is enough nutrition in the food is enough to make the extra calories “worth it.”
So what are these undiscovered superfoods?
- Chlorella
- Maca
- Tumeric
- Cacao Beans
- Pistachio and Brazil nuts
- Spirulina
- Sauerkraut
Chorella is a type of algae that has a bright green color and a high level of chlorophyll. Unlike many plants, Chlorella is a complete protein and has all of the amino acids, B Vitamins, iron, Omega 3 fatty acids, and fiber. It is supposed to bind to heavy metals, help detox, and reduce cholesterol and boost immunity.
Maca comes from a root in Peru and has a flavor combination of butterscotch and malt. It is valued as a natural stimulant and the ability to boost libido. Many people take Maca to balance their hormones.
Turmeric is an herb valued the world over, particularly in India where it is the main ingredient in curries. Tumeric has a host of important properties and purifies and protects the body with antioxidants. Turmeric is a blood thinner and is often used to reduce the risk of stroke. Some say it can prevent cancer and other serious ailments and it is often used mashed with other natural ingredients as a skin mask to purify the skin.
Cacao beans are the main ingredient in chocolate, but many people who eat cacao nibs find they are bitter until they get used to them. There is a stimulant effect, similar to caffeine,In addition, some and cacao is rich in antioxidants. It is said that cacao promotes healthy digestion, is rich in fiber, and contains more flavonoids, which help the heart than red wine.
Pistachio and Brazil nuts, like other nuts, are healthy, but these have unique benefits mere peanuts can’t match. Together these nuts provide many nutrients, including protein, monosaturated fats, and B vitamins and minerals.
Brazil nuts are one of the world’s best sources of selenium, which boosts the immune system and is also a good source of calcium. However, it is not good to overdo selenium, and it is recommended to limit your consumption of Brazil nuts to three a day.
Spirulina is a freshwater algae that is blue-green and is one of the world’s oldest forms of life. It is filled with protein, beta carotene, and many vitamins and minerals. In addition, Spirulina is rich in the fatty acid gamma-Linolenic acid that sustains many vital organs, including the brain.
Sauerkraut is not just something to eat on (vegan) sausages. Sauerkraut is a bearable form of cabbage with antibiotic properties and is filled with probiotics that promote gut health, digestion, and immunity. In addition, the cabbage in sauerkraut is loaded with Vitamin C, Vitamin K for bone health, and plenty of fiber.
Super-Charge Your Next Meal
Incorporate these superfoods into your next meal. Most of them are easy to add and after you are finished eating, chew on some cacao nibs. Once you have discovered these superfoods, you will make them a regular part of your menu.
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