So many superfoods, so little time! Caique Ponzoni, founder of Naked Foods (pictured) has given us the low down on what to look out for. Source: News Corp Australia.
WE’VE all heard about chia seeds, kale, acai berries and quinoa by now, but there is a new generation of superfoods making waves in the health community for their additional health-boosting qualities — as well as great taste.
Here, Caique Ponzoni, founder of Naked Foods, lets us in on the next generation of superfoods about to hit stores nationwide — and why you need them in your cupboards.
1. Khorasan flour
While it may closely resemble modern wheat of today, the ancient grain type known as Khorasan is higher in protein, vitamins including selenium, zinc and magnesium. Importantly, the high content of selenium found in Khorasan is antioxidant rich. In addition, because of its higher percentage of lipids, which produce more energy in the body than carbohydrates, Khorasan wheat is often referred to as “high-energy wheat”, so it may be valuable to those of you looking for an added energy boost.
Khorasan flour. Source: Supplied
2. Pea protein
I have recently had an influx of customers at Naked Foods asking what pea protein is and why it is better than other protein sources.
For a number of years, soy protein has been a common ingredient in many protein-rich recipes, including protein powder supplements. However, with the attention turning to the need for superfoods in our daily intake, the spotlight is now on pea protein, which comes from yellow and green split peas. Pea protein contains no animal products or byproducts, making it an ideal choice for vegans and vegetarians. It is also low in fat and carbohydrates, and is free of soy, gluten and lactose. These qualities make pea protein a healthy choice for those who suffer from food sensitivities or allergies.
Pea protein comes from yellow and green split peas. Source: Supplied
3. Celtic salt
While there is a common belief that salt is bad for you, the truth is that salt is actually essential for optimal health in humans. Harvested off the north-west coast of France, Celtic salt is one of nature’s purest and most unrefined sea salts, sourced from the clay ponds found along the coastal areas of France.
Rich in precious marine minerals, organic Celtic salt is harvested using traditional Celtic methods by hand and wooden tools, which maintain the integrity of the essential trace elements found in minute quantities in sea water and natural unrefined salt. Free from chemical additives, the trace elements are associated with healthy digestion and immune support.
Celtic salt. Source: Supplied
4. Inca berries
Inca berries are delicious South American exotic fruits that will not only tantalise your tastebuds, but provide a number of health benefits that put it in the class of superfoods. Organically grown and processed, high in fibre and antioxidants, recent studies found that these jewel-like berries have an antioxidant capacity 400 times higher than goji berries and other dried fruits.
Dried organic Inca berries are also a great natural energy booster because of the high content of natural sugars; a healthy alternative to muffins, biscuits, chips and crackers. They’re low in fat — especially saturated fat — and a rich source of potassium, phosphorus, vitamin C and ascorbic acid. Organic Inca, cranberry and goji berries enveloped in rich organic dark chocolate create a burst of tart with a touch of sweet, and are the ultimate bite sized indulgence.
Inca berries. Source: Supplied
5. Kidney beans
More than just a meat substitute, beans are a nutritious food choice with a multitude of impressive health benefits. Kidney beans are a beneficial addition to your diet as they are a good source of protein and fibre, low in sugar and low in saturated fat.
Kidney beans are a hearty food choice that will help you to feel fuller for longer because of their rich profile of fibre and water — two ingredients that make you feel fuller, faster. Therefore, adding beans to your diet helps cut calories without feeling deprived.
Red kidney beans. Source: Supplied
6. Maca
Maca is a root plant that belongs to the radish family that has been used as a vital ingredient for health for thousands of years. Originating from Peru, this pale cream-coloured organic powder is sometimes referred to as Peruvian Ginseng.
The root is packed with nutritionally-rich compounds that make it a super addition to your daily intake. Rich in iron, maca is enjoyed for its well-being benefits. Powdered maca can be added to smoothies, juice and shakes. For those sticking to a raw food diet, raw powdered maca root is also available.
No comments:
Post a Comment