Superfoods are incredibly nutritious, whole foods that provide high quantities of powerful antioxidants, phytonutrients and essential micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) our bodies need to run smoothly and stay disease-free.
Most superfoods also happen to be low in calories, are very easy to integrate into many diets (from low-carb, dairy free, to paleo) and are gluten free!
If you're new to the superfood powder world, here are some of our favorites...
Maca
The calcium-rich, malty-flavored Peruvian root has a reputation as an energizer, fertility booster, and libido enhancer. One study found around half a teaspoon a day for 12 weeks helped women on antidepressants get their sexual mojo back. Here's all about maca. Note: Maca is best used without cooking or baking it and pairs particularly well with chocolatey flavors.
TRY IT…stirred into nut milk, a smoothie, or peanut butter. A decadent maca chocolate cake is also a delicious option.
Cacao
You’ve heard about cacao’s heart-healthy flavonols, but it’s also a super source of fiber—one tablespoon has more fiber than half a cup of brown rice. Cacao is also full of magnesium, a mood-elevating mineral. Go for regular or raw but not “Dutch process” or “alkalized”—those treatments slash its flavonol content. If you're curious about the different origins of cacao, this is a great reference.
TRY IT…whisked into chili, added to a smoothie, or mixed into regular or chia pudding.
Acai
One teaspoon of this sweet-tart dust has the same inflammation-fighting power as many more common berries. Plus, the Amazonian powder delivers amino acids for repairing muscles post-workout, as well as fatty acids that give your mood and brain a lift. Buying tip: Look for freeze-dried, ground acai without added sweeteners.
TRY IT…mixed with yogurt, a smoothie, salad dressing, acai basil latte, or make your own refreshing acai smoothie bowl.
Camu Camu
Camu camu is admired for its many benefits. The powerful vitamins and antioxidants in camu camu support the immune system, promote good eyesight, support healthy, normal inflammatory levels, supports collagen formation, tendons, and ligaments, help fend off viral infection, support respiratory health and help maintain clarity of mind during stress.
TRY IT...camu camu powder mixes well with other citrus fruits and berries in your favorite superfood smoothies. It can also easily stir into yogurt and other powdered drink mixes.
In Peru, camu camu is a popular flavor of drinks and ice creams. Make a refreshingly tart camu camu berry lemonade by adding 1+ teaspoon of camu camu powder to freshly squeezed lemon juice, water, and berries, and sweeten with stevia.
I love to make camu camu gummies, and my kids love them too.
Spirulina
This blue-green, freshwater algae is not just for hippies and one of the most nutrient-dense food on the planet! It has almost 10 times more iron than spinach, four grams of protein per Tablespoon, and through-the-roof levels of immune system strengthening beta-carotene. Another superpower of spirulina is its ability to support healthy, normal detoxification, including heavy metals, especially arsenic.
While the slight fishy flavor can turn some people off, don’t fret. It typically disappears when mixed with food.
TRY IT…in your green drink, mixed with raw chocolate brownies or homemade energy balls, sprinkled on pesto, or in a toasted coconut spirulina latte.
Goji Berry Powder
This delicious, sweet goji berry fruit contains more antioxidant carotenoids than are found in any other known food, including more beta carotene than carrots, and zeaxanthin, which protects the eyes.
TRY IT...in your favorite smoothie, yogurt, or make your own goji juice, at whatever concentration you prefer, by mixing it with filtered water.
In Health and Happiness,
Kelly Harrington, MS, RDN
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods
