When asked to name a superfood, most people will probably mention one of the usual suspects such as blueberries, avocados, fatty fish, or broccoli. These foods are undeniably packed with all manner of nutrients, vitamins and minerals and are excellent for our health. However, they are not the only super organic foods worth knowing about.
Here are a few less-well known superfoods that are available in powder form, and can supercharge your health simply by mixing them with a drink, or sprinkling them onto your regular meal. This can be very convenient if you do not always have time to prepare meals from scratch with fresh ingredients.
Spirulina
One of the less well known superfoods, spirulina is a blue-green algae that is rich in nutrients, and is available in powder or capsule form. It grows on the surface of water and submerged objects, and can be consumed by humans and animals. It contains a range of B vitamins, copper, iron, and magnesium.
There are many potential benefits of spirulina, as it is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to protect the heart, provide relief from allergies, and support the immune system. It’s also high in protein, helping to keep you feeling fuller for longer and reducing the temptation to snack.
Ashwagandha powder
Ashwagandha powder is obtained from an evergreen shrub that grows in Asia and Africa, and has been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It has traditionally been used for promoting natural sleep and to relieve the symptoms of stress and anxiety. It contains compounds that can potentially calm the mind and boost mental clarity.
The active substances in the powder include alkaloids, choline, fatty acids, amino acids, and a variety of sugars. It may also help to support the immune system and is used as a traditional remedy to encourage recovery from an illness.
Raw cacao powder
Raw cacao powder is an unprocessed version of cocoa, which is the basis of chocolate products. However, due to the minimal amount of processing, it retains far more nutritional value, without the added harmful ingredients such as sugar and saturated fats. In particular, it is rich in flavonoids, which are antioxidants that can have a protective effect on the body.
If you love the taste of chocolate but want a guilt-free way to enjoy it, then cacao powder is the answer. It can be used as a baking ingredient, or mixed with smoothies or hot milk for a nourishing and delicious drink.
Maca powder
Maca powder is derived from the root of the Maca, a native plant of the Andes. It is packed with minerals and amino acids, and is a traditional herbal remedy for stress relief and to boost energy levels. It also helps to support healthy hair, skin, and nails.
Coconut oil powder
Coconut oil powder is a very versatile product that can be used as a cooking ingredient, or externally as a skin and hair care product. It may help to support the immune system and have a protective effect on the heart.