Superfoods & Sprouts This is a few pages from FOODMATTERS Detox& Rejuvenation Guide E-book..Buy it its awesome! (www.foodmatters.tv) Why Superfoods? Superfoods are a category of foods found in nature, they are superior sources of essential nutrients - nutrients we need but can’t make ourselves. We all may be adding more salads and vegetables to our diets, but concern for the quality of foods grown on mineral depleted soils makes superfoods popular. They are nutritionally more potent then regular foods and are wonderful food sources of anti-oxidants for healthy healing. “Superfoods are the most powerful nutrient-dense foods on the planet and have virtually no calories, no bad fats or harmful substances. Thus they are powerhouses for any transformation to a slender more healthier you.” - Gillian McKeith, You Are What You Eat
Superfoods can be divided into 6 main groups 1. Green Superfoods 2. Bee Superfoods 3. Seaweed Superfoods 3. Herb Superfoods 6. Fruit and Nut Superfoods
Green Superfoods: Greens are good, Green Superfoods are even better! Green Superfoods have the highest concentrations of easily digestible nutrients, fat burning compounds, vitamins and minerals to protect and heal the body. They contain a wide array of beneficial substances including proteins, protective phytochemicals and healthy bacteria helping you to build cleaner muscles and tissues, aid your digestive system function and more effectively protect you against disease and illness. Green superfoods are extremely rich in chlorophyll – the pigment that gives plants their green color. The molecular structure of chlorophyll is very similar to that of human blood and studies show that when this is consumed, the production of haemoglobin in blood is increased. Higher amounts of haemoglobin in the bloodstream means more oxygen-rich blood, the first and most important element that cells need to thrive.
The Grasses: Wheat grass - Wheat grass is the sprouted grass of a wheat seed. Unlike the whole grain, once sprouted, it no longer contains gluten or other common allergic agents. Wheat grass is super-alkalizing and is excellent for promoting healthy blood. It normalizes the thyroid gland to stimulate metabolism thus assisting digestion and promoting weight loss due also to its high enzyme content and cleansing effect. Barley grass - Barley grass has 11 times more calcium than cows milk, 5 times more iron than spinach and 7 times more Vitamin C and bioflavonoids than orange juice. It contains significant amounts of Vitamin B12 which is very important in a vegetarian diet. Barley grass juice has anti-viral activities and neutralizes heavy metals like mercury in the blood. The Algae’s
Wild blue-green algae - Algae was the first form of life on earth and its power is immense. Wild blue-green algae is a phytoplankton and contains virtually every nutrient going. With a 60% protein content and a more complete amino acid profile then beef or soya beans. It contains one of the best know food sources of beta carotene, B vitamins and chlorophyll. It can make you think better and improve your memory, strengthen your immune system and help with viruses, colds and flu. Spirulina - Spirulina is a cultivated micro-algae which has been consumed for thousands of years by the indigenous peoples in Mexico and Africa. It is one of the highest known protein sources on earth and contains 70% complete protein towering over steak which consists of only 25% once cooked. Studies have shown that spirulina can help control blood sugar levels and cravings thus making it a key food for diabetics, and can be used to assist in weight loss and as a general nutritional supplement.
Chlorella - Chlorella is a fresh water algae and like it’s other algae cousins contains a complete protein profile, all the B vitamins, vitamin C and E and many minerals. It is amazing for the immune system and for reducing cholesterol and preventing the hardening of the arteries, a precursor to heart attacks and strokes.
Green Leafy Vegetables - Green leafy vegetables are so readily available and so highly nutritious, however most people do not eat enough of them. Recent studies continuously confirm that populations that eat a diet high in green leafy vegetables run a far lower risk of heart disease and cancer. Fresh raw green leafy vegetables contain high doses of chlorophyl, easily digestible proteins, enzymes and a wide range of vitamins and minerals. These particular vegetables act as mini-transfusions for the blood, a health tonic for the brain and immune system and a cleanser of the kidneys. Try any of the following: rocket, spinach, dandelion greens, kale, watercress, parsley, lettuce, endive, chicory, broccoli sprouts and mustard sprouts.
Bee Superfoods:
The Egyptians wrote about it way back in 5500 B.C., the Indians used it for their religious ceremonies in 1000 B.C. and even the Babylonians have been noted to use it in their medicinal practices. The western world actually discovered the benefits of bee superfoods by accident during an investigation of native Russian Beekeepers who regularly lived past 100 years of age who ate raw honey, rich in bee pollen, every day. "If the bee disappeared off the surface of the globe then man would only have four years of life left. No more bees, no more pollination, no more plants, no more animals, no more man." - Albert Einstein
Royal Jelly - Royal Jelly is a milk like secretion from the head glands of the worker bees. The Queen Bee lives almost exclusively on royal jelly and she lives around 40 times longer than the rest of the bees. Royal Jelly is a powerhouse of nutrients containing every nutrient necessary to support life. It is the worlds richest source of panothenic acid, which is known to combat stress, fatigue and insomnia and is a vital nutrient for healthy skin and hair. Bee Pollen - Bee pollen is collected by bees from flowering plants and formed into granules. Bee pollen is the most complete food found in nature and has 5-7 times more protein than beef. It is especially beneficial for the extra nutritional and energy needs of athletes and those recovering from illness. Research shows that pollen counteracts the signs of aging and increases both mental and physical capability. Propolis - Propolis is the substance that bees coat the walls of their hives with and bee hives have often been referred to as the most antiseptic places in nature. The powerful antibiotic properties of propolis can help protect humans from bacteria and can strengthen our immune system. Propolis works against viruses, something that antibiotics can’t do. Research shows that taking propolis during high risk ‘cold and flu’ seasons reduces colds, coughing and inflammation of the mouth, tonsils and throat.
Although not technically classed as a superfood let me tell you the benefits of:
Raw honey –" which has not been pasteurized or filtered, and ideally taken directly from the hive – is a treasure chest of nutritional value and medicinal remedies.
It contains an abundance of vitamins and minerals and is a natural and powerful medicine, both internally and externally.
“The list of honey's beneficial functions is a long one. Honey increases calcium absorption; can increase haemoglobin count and treat or prevent anaemia caused by nutritional factors; can help arthritic joints, when combined with apple cider vinegar; fights colds and respiratory infections of all kinds; can help to boost gastrointestinal ulcer healing; works as a natural and gentle laxative; aids constipation, allergies and obesity; provides an array of vitamins and minerals; and supplies instant energy without the insulin surge caused by white sugar. Many have found raw honey helpful for its positive effects against allergies and hay fever, and one or two teaspoons last thing at night can help with insomnia. As an antiseptic, honey is also a drawing agent for poisons from bites or stings or infected wounds, and has outperformed antibiotics in treatments for stomach ulcerations, gangrene, surgical wound infections, surgical incisions and the protection of skin grafts, corneas, blood vessels and bones during storage and shipment. Raw honey is exceptionally effective internally against bacteria and parasites. Plus, raw honey contains natural antibiotics, which help kill microbes directly. Raw honey, when applied topically, speeds the healing of tissues damaged by infection and/or trauma. It contains vitamins, minerals and enzymes, as well as sugars, all of which aid in the healing of wounds." An excerpt from an article by www.naturalnews.com
Seaweed Superfoods:
Seaweeds are the most nutritionally dense plants on the planet as they have access to all the nutrients in the ocean. They can contain up to 10 times more calcium than milk and eight times as much as beef. The chemical composition of seaweeds is so close to human blood plasma, that perhaps their greatest benefit is regulating and purifying our blood system. They help to alkalize our blood, neutralizing the over-acid effects of our modern diet and protect us from a wide array of toxic elements in the environment, including heavy metals, pollutants and radiation by-products converting them to harmless salts that the body can eliminate. But the most remarkable results with seaweeds we see in boosting weight loss and deterring cellulite build-up. The high concentrations of natural iodine help to stimulate the thyroid gland, so that food fuels are used before they can be turned into fatty deposits. At the same time, the minerals act like electrolytes to break the chemical bond that seals the fat cells allowing trapped wastes, to escape. Both by eating sea vegetables or bathing in, them helps reduce cellulite and stimulates lymphatic drainage. Seaweeds have been part of the oriental diet for thousands of years. Studies in Japan show that a diet as little as 5% seagreens inhibits cancer growths even causing remission of active tumors. Seaweeds are available to us in health food stores and asian supermarkets. Try to incorporate them into your diet to boost flavour and nutrition.
Nori - best known for the seaweed use to make sushi rolls. You can make your own at home, make sure you use the untoasted nori rolls ( raw ,as most shop bought have been cooked) for maximum nutrient content. Kelp - kelp is available in powder or capsule form for those who feel awkward eating seaweed. It is also the most common seaweed found along the ocean shores. Because of their thick leaves they are perfect for a hot seaweed bath. Dulse - a red seaweed, available in flakes. Because there is no need to cook it dulse is great to use as seasoning on salads or vegetables. Arame - consists of brown stringy seaweed. Soak in hot water for 5 minutes and they are ready to use. Wakame - with a sweet flavor makes a great accompaniment to sandwiches. Soak for 5 minutes in hot water. A good source of Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, C, E,K Folate, and soluble?insoluble fibre, and has the highest nutrient to calorie ratios from a vegetarian source of anti-inflammatory Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acid. Kombu - used in Japan for centuries as a mineral rich flavor enhancer. Add a strip of kombu when cooking beans making them more digestible and reducing gas. Add a strip of kombu to your sprouts when soaking them to allow them to soak up the minerals.
Sea vegetables help alkalise our bodies from over-acidity of the modern diet and contain 10-20 times more bioavailable minerals and vitamins than land vegetables, with no fat and low in calories! The salty taste is not just saly, but a balanced chelated combination of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous,iron, and trace minerals.
(A trusty brand I use is ‘Power super foods’ available at any good health food store, or check out www.powersuperfoods.com
Extra tip: You may even like to try your supergreens in your pets dinner. Recently opening a packet of Wakame, my cat got excited at the smell so I gave him some dried pieces. Well I couldnt believe how he got into them! (He loves dried Goji berries too)
Herb Superfoods Herbs as nourishment offer the body a whole host of nutrients it may not have received either because of poor diet or environmental deficiencies in the soil or air. Herbs as medicine are essentially body balancers that work with the body functions so that it can heal and regulate itself. Herbs have been used for centuries as part of the wisdoms of natural healing methods. Herbs are best used in their whole form rather than isolating effective plant constituents so called “active ingredients”. Since all body parts and most disease symptoms are interrelated, it is wise to use herbs which can affect each part of the problem Nettle - the bowel mover. These plants are best known as stinging nettle plants. However when the nettle leaves are dried and eaten the saliva neutralizes the sting. Nettles are incredibly effective in removing unwanted pounds. A cup of nettle tea in the morning is ideal to get things going in the bowel department. The nettle leaves increase the thyroid function, increase metabolism and releases mucus in the colon allowing for the flushing of excess wastes. Aloe vera - Aloe vera is a perennial succulent that grows in a wild range of climates and seems to do best in tropical and sub-tropical areas. It has been deemed a superfood after research studies identifying its seventy-five healing compounds including natural steroids, antibiotic agents, amino acids, minerals and enzymes. Aloe Vera has been used since Egyptian times as a skin moisturizer, and healer for burns, cuts, bruises, acne and eczema. This is mostly due to the high concentration of natural sulphur (MSM) that it contains. Aloe juices alkalizes the digestive tract preventing over-acidity, a common cause of indigestion, acid reflux, heartburn and ulcers. Echinacea - Echinacea is a household name when it comes to warding off colds and flu. This herb is used as a natural antibiotic and immune system stimulator, helping to build up resistance. The reason for its effectiveness is because of its ability to stimulate the lymph flow in the body. Lymph runs parallel with our bloodstream and carries toxins out of the body. Take in liquid or capsule form for 2-3 week periods during “high risk” flu seasons. The tea from this herb has also grown in popularity for treating infections and cancers including skin cancer. Ginseng - Ginseng is the quintessential herb for handling stress. This ancient healing herb has been used widely throughout Asia as an energizer tonic. This special herb is particularly beneficial when recovering from illness or surgery for its restorative and anti-infection properties. It promotes regeneration from stress and fatigue. Drink as a tea daily or otherwise in a capsule form.
Fruit & Nut Superfoods Free radicals may sound a little like an extremist terrorist sect invading capture and wreaking havoc across the globe and in fact within the context of your body you’d be right. They are in part a natural occurrence through metabolism however extra and unnecessary free radical load can be put on our bodies by external factors including pollution, cigarette smoke, radiation, burnt & deep fried fats and cooked foods. The best way to combat free radicals in our system is by our intake of foods with high antioxidant properties. When antioxidants react with free radicals their destructive properties are eliminated. Antioxidants are naturally occurring chemicals in foods. They include vitamins A, C and E, carotenoids such as beta-carotene, some minerals, phenolic compounds and other naturally occurring chemicals. Fruit and nut superfoods are not only nutrient dense but have very high antioxidant properties. Goji Berries - Goji berries are grown on vines in the protected valleys of inner Mongolia and Tibet. The distinctively flavored red berries are a very rich source of vitamin C, having 500 times more vitamin C per ounce than oranges and actually more than any other fruit. They are a superb source of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and E and contain a full complement of protein with 18 amino acids and 21 trace minerals. Most of all they are an excellent antioxidant making it an ideal natural whole food for reversing aging and protecting against disease. Thank you nature. Raw Cacao - Most cocoa powder and commercial chocolate is processed via the “Dutch method” meaning it is subjected to scorching temperatures of up to 150°C with the additional aid of solvents, thus destroying most of the nutrients and anti-oxidants. Whereas with organic raw cacao in a powder, nib or whole bean form as the temperature will have never been allowed to exceed 40°C thus allowing all the heat-sensitive vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants to remain intact. Raw cacao beans contain possibly the worlds most concentrated source of antioxidants found in any nut. Raw cacao beans have an anti-oxidant (ORAC) score of 95,500. To put that into perspective, that’s 14 times more antioxidant flavonoids than red wine, 21 times more than green tea! They are also extremely high in Magnesium which most of us are deficient in even in following a balanced diet. For those concerned with not getting enough Iron it should be pleasing to know that one small 28 gram serving of raw cacao beans gives 314% of the recommended daily allowance of Iron. Who would have ever thought that chocolate could be so healthy. Maca - Maca powder is from the Maca root, a flavorful ancient superfood from Peru. Maca has been cultivated for at least 2000 years and consumed by Inca Warriors to increase strength and endurance. It is a highly nutritious food that has been used traditionally to gain increased energy, promote sexual desire, support fertility and enhance immune system function. It continues today to be a significant staple food and medicinal plant for the Peruvian people and is now widely available the world over as a whole food supplement. Acai - Acai berries have long formed part of the staple diet of the tribes in the Amazon. With the appearance of a purple grape and taste of a tropical berry it has been shown to have powerful antioxidant properties thanks to a high level of anthocyanins, pigments also found in red wine. The ORAC rating of acai is 1,027. Make sure to look for the freeze dried acai fruit in which the nutrients are kept intact or when buying the juice ensure for a brand that has not been pasteurized. Coconuts & Coconut Oil - Young coconuts are one of the highest sources of electrolytes in nature. Electrolytes are ionized salts in our cells, that transport energy throughout the body. Through perspiration we can easily deplete our electrolyte supply making us feel tired and weak. We can replenish them by drinking fluids high in electrolytes, like coconut water, which is a much better alternative to commercial sports drinks laden with artificial sugars and colors. The molecular structure of coconut water is identical to human blood plasma, which means that it is immediately recognized by the body and put to good use. Drinking the juice from a young coconut is like giving your body an instant blood transfusion. In fact this was common practice during World War II in the Pacific, where both sides in the conflict regularly used coconut water, siphoned directly from the coconut, to give emergency transfusions to wounded soldiers. Coconut oil's saturated fat is of the medium-chain fatty acid variety, which are digested more easily and utilized differently by the body than other saturated fats (like butter, meat and eggs). Whereas other saturated fats are stored in the body's cells, the medium chain fatty acids in coconut oil are sent directly to the liver where they are immediately converted into energy. Coconut oil will actually speed up metabolism so your body will burn more calories in a day which will contribute to weight loss. Coconut oil supports healthy metabolic function and is a revered anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal agent. Pacific islanders deem coconut oil to be the cure-all gift from nature for all illness. Coconut oil (extra virgin cold pressed) has been used in India as a key ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine for over four thousand years and is still a primary form of medical treatment for millions of people. In South America, virgin coconut oil is drunk by the glass as a means of overcoming illness and speeding up recovery. It is used in hospitals around the world to treat digestive or malabsorption problems, and is commonly given to infants and children who have problems digesting other fats. Coconut oil is the premier oil for cooking. It is much more stable than other vegetable oils under normal cooking temperatures and does not break down into free radicals as quickly as other vegetable oils. It is also naturally more resistant to rancidity and oxidation than other edible oils. For a great read on the benefits of this great oil Download this Coconut e-book here Noni - This fruit has been used by Polynesian islanders as a regenerative medicine for more than 1500 years. Research documents that the noni fruit has astounding anti-bacterial properties, even against E-coli. It has anti-tumor activity, anti-inflammatory properties, is effective as a pain reliever, generates cell repair and strengthens the immune system. Noni contains a multitude of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, co-enzymes, plant sterols, antioxidants, phytonutrients and bioflavonoids. Many believe that the synergistic effect of the multispectrum nutrients is what gives it its potency. It has been proven beneficial for colds and flu’s, digestive disorders, skin disorders, pain relief, headaches, infections and more. Noni has gained worldwide popularity and has become widely available. For best results look for a freeze-dried product that uses only the whole fruit or when buying the juice look for a brand that does not use pasteurizing. Chia seeds-Chia seeds-Small seed big punch One teaspoon of dry chia in a just enough water to swallow will fix a stomach ache in less than 15 minutes! Dont forget the SPROUTS! And then theres HEMP!
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