Superfoods...what make them super and how you can use them

MACA

Maca is a superfood which originated in the Andes Mountains and has traditionally been used by the Incas and Peruvians for hundreds of years.

Maca has traditionally been used as a hormone modulator. What this means is that it brings the bodies endocrine system back into balance. It has the ability to act on stress hormones, sex hormones as well as thyroid hormones.

Maca also contains amino acids and minerals such as calcium, magnesium and zinc.

Because Maca does have such a strong affinity with hormones if you are being treated for a hormonal condition it is best to seek advice from your Naturopath or other health care professional.

The best way to have Maca is in a smoothie, but you can just have it mixed in some milk if you feel so inclined.

SPIRULINA

Spirulina is a blue-green vegetable algae. But don't be afraid, it is one of the worlds most nutritious food known to mankind. It is high in B vitamins, as well as B12. Spirulina is a source of chlorophyll, which as anti inflammatory effects on the body. It is a sourecof protein, Vitamin A and Vitmain E. It is also very high in iron. The perfect supplement for vegetarians and vegans which want to be mindful of their protein, iron and B12 intake.

You can take Spirulina in tablet, capsule or powder form. If you're having the powder then in a glass of water or in a smoothie is the best way…beware it tastes…green to say the least!

MESQUITE

Mesquite is a powder which has a caramel flavour. The major health benefits of using mesquite powder include blood sugar regulation and being rich in the amino acid lysine (needed for reducing the frequency and duration of cold sores). Mesquite powder is also rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc and even iron.

Mesquite is great in smoothies or to give things a caramel flavour in raw cooking or other cooking

LUCUMA

Lucuma powder is made from a fruit which originates from the Incas and Peruvians. It is high in Vitamins B1, B2, C as well as high finer and calcium.

Similar to Mesquite, Lucuma is great in smoothies or to give things a sweet citrus flavour in raw cooking or other cooking

BERRIES

Berries include everything fem strawberries, blackberries, goji berries and blueberries to the outrageously expensive macqui and acai berries. These berries are considered super foods due to their antioxidant value, as well as having many other phytochemicals such as anthocyanins which have protective effects on an individuals health and longevity.

CACAO

Cacao is the raw form on cocoa, so it the the stage before cocoa is heat treated. Because it is raw it has a high antioxidant value, as well as a high mineral content, in particular magnesium.

Beware though, if you have to much of this superfood, particular after lunch you may be kept awake as the caffeine content is also quite high.

My favourite ways to enjoy cacao is in raw chocolate…thats right raw chocolate! Favourite brands include PANA and LOVING EARTH…if you havent already tried some you need to check them out asap!!

OATS

Oats are a great superfood…they are warming, nourishing and a great source of fibre. Because of this fibre content they have a positive action on our cardiovascular health by keeping blood cholesterol under control.

BROCCOLI

Broccoli is full of essential nutrients such as B group vitamins and Vitamin K as well as minerals such as Iron. Broccoli in particular has the ability to help with hormone regulation through aiding liver metabolism of oestrogen. Broccoli contains Indole-3 Carbonyl and Diindolylmethane which enhance the liver detoxification process. Broccoli is also a a good source of fibre.

MUSHROOMS

Mushrooms have high levels of antioxidants as well as great immune enhancing properties. In particular reishi, shitake, cordyceps have the greatest immune enhancing ability compared to the generic button mushrooms. (More info on mushrooms next week!)

Karah is available for consultations in Ocean Grove, Geelong and Melbourne. You can keep up to date on everything health by liking her facebook page https://www.facebook.com/karahmnaturopath , following her on instagram @belyhealth , or visiting her website www.karahmclarennaturopath.com

Peninsula Family Medical Practice, Ocean Grove. Ph 03 52562001

Aura Health & Beauty, Geelong. Ph 03 52433966

A Peace of Health Clinic, Melbourne CBD. Ph 0396633665