Take Your Health To The Next Level With These Superfoods
There is no doubt that we are now living in the era of superfoods. Scientists are constantly unlocking the hidden powers of many common foods, while also ‘discovering’ a series of new foods from around the world. Wasn’t it only yesterday that quinoa was a strange word from a distant land instead of a staple grain found in nearly every pantry. Kale was another superfood that seemed to come out of nowhere, but is now seen in every salad bar and morning smoothie.
So what are the new superfoods trends we should expect in 2017? Some foods have only recently been discovered, making their way for the first time into the western world but others have been on our kitchen shelves all along or are making their second debut as a super food due to new research.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Nothing new with this one, a common ingredient in many recipes and also a common herbal remedy for many ailments. Why does it make the list for new superfood trends of 2017? Because new research is coming out that proves what home remedies have always known, Raw Apple Cider Vinegar can cure a wide variety of ailments. This includes fighting colds by soothing sore throats and clearing up stuffy noses. Adding a spoonful to a glass of water a day can also help clear up (or prevent) yeast infections. It freshens breath by killing bacteria living in your mouth, while also whitening teeth. It’s also an exceptional digestive and eases many types of stomach upset.
2. Avocado Oil
Again, this one isn’t necessarily new to people with a healthy lifestyle. Perhaps you might already have avocado oil on your shelves from the last time it made the rounds through the superfood world. This year however, many people are making the switch from coconut oil to avocado oil because it is high in oleic acid, carotenoids, lutein and vitamin E. Not to mention the extremely high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). These fatty acids reduce inflammation throughout the body, thereby targeting disease.
3. Activated Charcoal
The next trend in detoxifying foods, activated charcoal is making its way into everyone’s smoothies and juices. In order to increase its detoxifying qualities, it has been processed with gas in order to open up tiny microscopic holes within it. These tiny spaces trap toxins and other harsh chemicals on the way through the body. This superfood should be consumed in small quantities, because it can even begin to remove beneficial nutrients from the body if taken in large doses. In order to maximize its ability to eliminate unwanted toxins from the body, instead of targeting the good ones, it is recommended to ingest at least 30 minutes before eating.
4. Inca Peanuts or Sacha Inchi Nuts
The sacha inchi nut, or the Inca peanut, is the latest ‘discovery’ from traditional South American diets. Without roasting, it is not suitable for consumption, but afterwards it takes on a distinctly mild nutty flavor. Its packed with tons of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin E, protein, fiber and omega 3, 6 and 9. For vegetarians and vegans, finding plant based foods high in omegas is difficult as there are very few out there. It also tends not to trigger allergic reactions. You can find Sacha Inchi Protein powder that has a high content of digestible protein, and also contains a range of minerals including iron, iodine, and calcium.
5. Watermelon Water
Another breakthrough in hydration and natural energy drinks, watermelon water is making waves. Watermelon water contains high levels of a substance called L-Citrulline. This amino-acid is vital to recovery after workouts, boosting energy and reducing muscle soreness. Although it should never fully replace the hydrating quality of good old fashion water, because it is high in natural sugars contains, watermelon water can be a great alternative to traditional energy or post workout drinks.
6. Inulin Prebiotic
Many of us try to incorporate foods into our diets which are high in probiotics. Probiotics help maintain a healthy and flourishing microbial environment within the digestive tract. In order for probiotics to be able to take hold, our bodies need to already have a specific type of environment which is hospitable to these tiny organisms. This is where inulin prebiotics are vital. They build a perfect environment within our digestive systems and probiotics love it! Probiotics can then more easily bind to the lining of the stomach. On top of helping probiotics to work, inulin prebiotics help the body absorb more vitamins and minerals.
7. Tiger Nuts
Although not technically a nut, tiger nuts are a great alternative to other nuts we typically use in North America. It can be made into nut flours, and nut milk but is actually root vegetable commonly grown in northern africa and the mediterranean. They contain high levels of calcium, iron, potassium and are extremely high in fiber. With all these nutrients packed into it, it helps reduce hunger cravings and maintain a healthy weight.
References
http://rescu.com.au/superfood-trends/
http://www.popsugar.com.au/fitness/New-Superfoods-2017-42652019
https://sunwarrior.com/healthhub/10-amazing-health-benefits-sacha-inchi
