We love our super foods here at MG Herbs!
In the first blog of this series, we introduced you to superfoods, what they are, how they work and why we use them.
For the next couple of weeks, come and meet some of our favourite, functional foods...Starting off with the As, Bs and Cs of the superfood alphabet!
A L M O N D S are high in magnesium, calcium, protein and good fats. These super nuts are the perfect addition to the diet for recovery. They also keep you full and help stabilise blood sugar levels as they are slow burning fuel for your body. A tasty addition to an afternoon fruit or veg snack to help make the energy from other foods last longer.
A C A I is full of anthocyanins, avonoids, anti-ageing pigments, lot’s of minerals and vitamins, as well as omega-3, 6 and 9. It is a super powerful berry and is loaded with 19 amino acids, 30% fibre, and monosaturated fats. It also has low GI and low sugar, making it a heart-healthy essential.
B A N A N A is rich in potassium but what does that mean? It means that they can help reduce high blood pressure and risk of stroke as potassium helps to stop hardening of the arteries. Banana can also help reduce reflux as its works like an antacid so is great for gut healing. They are also jammed with energy so are perfect for a pre-workout snack or if you are just on the go and need a pickup. A perfect component of an energy smoothie!
B E E T R O O T is full of nitric oxide, which relaxes the blood vessels and increases oxygen circulation in the blood. It is perfect for those with high blood pressure. Beetroot is also great for detoxifying the liver so it can assist with weight loss goals and cleansing. As a vasodilator it can also be used as nature’s Viagra for the boys.
C A R R O T is full of the powerful antioxidant beta carotene which is super important for good skin, so it will help to clear any blemishes and also supports your immune system. Carrots also reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer with this amazing antioxidant, fighting free radicals in the body. Of course it’s still great for eyesight as we all know as well!
C H I A S E E D is the ultimate seed and is thought to be the most nutritious food in the world. We now grow the majority of chia here in Australia in the KiImberly's. Full of omega 3, 6 and 9, antioxidants, protein, calcium, protein, magnesium and fibre, these little miracle seeds are anti-inflammatory, blood sugar balancing, satiating and great for detoxing the gut and bowels. Easy to throw into a smoothie or sprinkle on top of salads.
C A C A O is a natural antidepressant and stress reliever! Cacao is full of antioxidants which keep our mind sharp and our skin young. Plus it’s the highest magnesium food in the world which is important in preventing cramps and headaches (hence why we girls crave it around our cycles!) as well as helping with stress and anxiety. It is the most mineral rich superfood, and is energising and mood enhancing since it increases serotonin levels in the brain (our feel good chemical). It has almost double the ORAC value (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) as acai berry and is rich in polyphenols to help reduce cholesterol and support heart health.
C O C O N U T is the ultimate fat. It keeps us full, satiated and helps stabilise blood sugar levels as it is slow burning fuel for your body. Coconut is also antimicrobial so is perfect for keeping any nasty bugs at bay. It will help keep your mind switched on ghting brain fog and is great for your hair, skin and nails as well!
COCONUT OIL is a rich source of super good saturated fats (90%) which are medium chain triglycerides. This means that they are metabolised uniquely and can actually help to burn fat when eaten by increasing the calories you burn. This oil is also antimicrobial so can help kill pathogens in the body and on the skin as well. It will keep you full and reduce hunger and sugar cravings.
Join us on the next blog to uncover more of the superfood alphabet with us!
In the meantime, pop over to the shop and pre-order your copy of From Peasants Food To Superfoods.