SUPERFOODS PART 2

Allium Family
While many superfoods are exotic and popular, the allium family of foods are your humble super heroes: garlic, onions, leeks and chives. They contain flavonoids which stimulate glutathione production, a tripeptide which is the liver’s most potent antioxidant. This substance enhances the elimination of toxins and carcinogens. Garlic produces more “natural killer” cells in the blood to fight tumors and infections, reduces the risk of blood clots, lowers total cholesterol, and reduces the risk of cancers, particularly stomach cancers.

Ginseng
This ancient herb (of which the leaves and root are both used) is instrumental in the game of dealing with stress and fatigue. Ginseng is also a very restorative herb with anti-infection and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used widely throughout Asia as a natural energy tonic for the whole body, and was believed to cure lethargy, arthritis, impotence, senility reduce cholesterol and increase endurance.

Spirulina
Spirulina is a cultivated micro-algae, one of the best known protein sources on Earth, and has been consumed for thousands of years by natives of Mexico and Africa. It contains 70% complete protein, dominating your traditional steak which has only 25% protein once cooked. Studies demonstrate that this superfood can help control blood sugar levels and cravings, making it an excellent companion for diabetics, and those who want to lose weight.

Kefir
Kefir is a fermented probiotic milk drink originating from the former Soviet Union – the name kefir loosely translates to “pleasure” or “good feeling.” Unlike yogurt, kefir is made by adding “kefir grains” (pictured) to milk – a complex mixture of yeasts and lactobacillus (good) bacteria.

Noni Fruit
For 1500 years, Polynesian Islanders have used this fruit as a regenerative medicine – research shows that the noni fruit has an incredible anti-bacterial properties, anti-tumor activity and anti-inflammatory properties. It also generates cell repair, strengthens the immune system and is an effective pain reliever, not to mention its high concentration of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and phytonutrients. For best results, find a freeze-dried product that uses only the whole fruit, or look for unpasteurized juice.

Coconut
Young coconuts hold one of the highest electrolyte counts in nature, and the body needs electrolytes (ionized salts in our cells) to transport energy around the body. During World War II, coconut water was often used in place of blood transfusions, as the molecular structure of coconut water is identical to human blood plasma.

Coconut oil
While coconuts contain saturated fat, it is of the medium-chain fatty acid variety, meaning that it is digested easily and utilized by the body in a unique way, different to the way we absorb other saturated fats like butter, meat and eggs. These fats get stored in the body’s cells, whereas the fatty acids in coconut oil are sent directly to the liver where they are converted into energy. Coconut oil will also speed up your metabolism in a healthy way, contributing to weight loss. The oil is also a revered anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal agent.

Aloe Vera
A superfood due to the fact that research studies identified seventy five healing compounds in the plant, including natural steroids, antibiotic agents, amino acids, minerals, and enzymes. Ancient Egyptians used the plant (with its high concentration of natural suphur) as a skin moisturizer and in healing wounds, cuts, bruises, acne and eczema. Aloe juice alkalizes the digestive system, preventing over-acidity.

Quinoa
Quinoa is a recently rediscovered ancient grain once considered “the gold of the Incas.” The protein rich seed is rich in amino-acids, and when cooked has a nutty flavor and a fluffy, slightly crunchy texture. Considered a complete protein, the grain contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a good choice for vegans. Quinoa is also packed with lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair, and contains manganese, magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus.

Wheat Grass
Incredibly alkalizing and especially great for promoting healthy blood, wheat grass is the sprouted grass of the wheat seed. Since it has been sprouted, it is unlike the whole grain, and no longer contains gluten or other common allergens. Wheat grass normalizes the thyroid gland, which in turn stimulates the metabolism, assisting digestion, promoting weight loss, and cleansing the body.

By Sophie Ward