Superfoods

Superfoods are foods that are particularly rich in nutrients and are thought to be highly beneficial for our health as a result. Many contain more antioxidants and enzymes than other foods and may support healing, detoxification, fertility, alkalisation, digestion, nutrient absorption and anti-ageing.  They can also be helpful for improving energy in the body, particularly ...Read more for those working long stressful hours or experiencing long term fatigue.

Some of these superfoods may seem ‘exotic’ to us in the UK but are often part of a normal everyday diet in other countries (as normal as broccoli may be to us). In Japan for example, mothers take chlorella through their pregnancy and small infants are given it once on solid food.

Spirulina (named because of its spiral shape)

•    This is blue - green algae (single celled plant) that grows in inland freshwater. Algaes are one of the oldest living life forms, helping to sustain our oxygenated atmosphere.
•    Source of plant protein (contains 9 of the essential amino acids and 9 non-essential amino acids)
•    Rich in beta carotene, minerals, vitamin E and B vitamins. It actually contains more iron in one serving than one serving of spinach
•    Contains the natural compounds phycocyanin, polysaccharides and sulfolipids which may help to support the immune system
•    Helpful for cleansing and alkalising the body
•    May have a beneficial ‘cooling’ effect for some
•    Source of essential fatty acids
•    Rich in enzymes
•    Energizing

Chlorella

•    A singled celled algae grown in freshwater ponds
•    It has possibly one of the highest concentrations of chlorophyll of any plant (including spirulina) and has been in existence for billions of years
•    Like Spirulina, also high in protein but less than Spirulina
•    In order to be absorbed and utilised by the body, the cell wall of chlorella must be ‘cracked’ to access the nutrients.
•    Chlorella has been found to be effective to bind to heavy metals such as mercury, pesticides and carcinogens
•    Helps to support the immune system
•    Chlorella contains something called ‘Chlorella Growth Factor’ which is not found in other green foods. CGF is thought to be useful for improving growth in general and assisting with healing, helping to lessen degeneration and more.
•    May help support blood sugar imbalances
•    Another good source of essential fatty acids
•    In Japan, where a great deal of chlorella is grown and consumed, it is famed for its beauty use - to support the skin, improve complexion and assist with anti-ageing. Many Japanese women consume it daily
•    Energizing

Other blue-green algaes also have the above benefits.

Barley Grass

•    The green leaves of the barley plant contain a wide range of vitamin and minerals and are particularly rich in enzymes
•    Helpful for cleansing and the most alkalising of all the sea greens and land grasses
•    Rich in chlorophyll
•    Energizing
We recommend choosing a product which uses the powder made from the juice of the barley. This means most of the fibre has been removed so the remaining powder is much more nutrient dense and easily absorbed. For example, see the Green Magma product (see below) is from the juice powder.

Wheat Grass

•    Similar effects to barley grass as above
•    Rich in enzymes
•    Excellent for energising the body and mind
•    It may be helpful for detoxification

The grasses – barley grass and wheat grass are especially helping for alkalising and ‘cooling’ the body which may be helpful for those with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

Broccoli (and other cruciferous vegetables)

•    Rich in vitamins (a good source of vitamin C and folic acid), minerals and fibre. Also a good source of antioxidants.
•    From broccoli, a naturally occurring substance is extracted called indole, which is converted into DIM (Di – indolymethane). It may help to regulate oestrogen levels in the body. Specifically, it may be used to support better oestrogen metabolism (a normal everyday requirement for the body which can sometimes becomes ineffective, allowing excess oestrogens to build up in some women). Therefore, DIM may act to have a ‘clearing effect’ on an over-build up of oestrogens. Excessive oestrogen in women may cause symptoms such as mood swings/PMT, weight gain/difficulties in losing weight, acne and problems with fertility


Acai Berry

•    Acai is a member of the palm fruit family, so it is therefore rich in essential fatty acids. This is why it may be good at supporting metabolism and general health (as we need ‘good’ fats for our brain, skin, heart, liver and more)
•    Due to being rich in antioxidants it may help to support the immune system
•    It may help to improve blood flow due to the essential fat and antioxidant content

Goji Berries

•    An excellent source of iron (potentially more than some red meats)
•    A rich source of vitamin C, more than some citrus fruits
•    Rich in antioxidants
•    Some research has shown they may contain more beta carotene than carrots

Acerola Cherry

•    An excellent source of natural vitamin C (much higher than oranges). Research has also shown that vitamin C from acerola cherry has great bioavailability and therefore the absorption is improved. Additionally, it is thought to be retained by the body for longer periods of time ready to be used when most needed. Vitamin C is required for the immune system, healing, support during times of stress and lots more.
•    Rich in other vitamins and minerals
•    Acerola cherry may be helpful for skin as vitamin C is required for collagen formation. Collagen keeps our skin tight, line-free and generally youthful.
•    
Berries

Other berries are rich in vitamins and minerals but particularly antioxidants. There has been a lot of recent research into berries being excellent to include in the daily diet to help lessen the chance of developing chronic health conditions.

Beetroot

•    A good deal of research has shown the benefit of consuming beetroot to lower high blood pressure. This is due to beetroot’s natural nitrate content.
•    Beetroot is a good source of iron
•    Beetroot naturally contains a phytonutrients called betalains. In studies these have been shown to assist with reducing inflammation and helping with detoxification. Beetroot may be helpful to support with cleansing the liver in particular.

Medicinal Mushrooms

These mushrooms are quite different from the common or garden mushroom. They include Reishi, Shiitaki, Maitake mushrooms. Medicinal mushrooms may be helpful for a plethora of issues such as long term feelings of tiredness, immune issues, cardiovascular support and more.

How can I take Superfoods?

In supplement form, superfoods may be found as tablets, capsules, powder, liquid drops and food juices. Some products are as a single food or supplement whereas there are many which are a blend of the above and more.