Super Seeds and Berries

Health & Fitness – 16 September 2014

Superfoods continue to be the word on everyone’s lips and increasingly, shopping lists. Supermarket aisles filled with acai berries, chia seeds and kale promise to give us a potent punch of health buzz words such as ‘antioxidants’, ‘fatty acids’ and an entire alphabet of vitamins. We know these things are meant to be good for us, but what exactly do they do?

woman with drive put on their lab coats and deciphered the science behind the buzz words.

1. Acai Berries

This exotic berry has topped the lists of best superfoods for good reason. It has a highly concentrated amount of antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids. It’s also considered nature’s best way of fighting premature ageing. Just in case you’re wondering, acai is pronounced ah-sigh-ee.

2. Blueberries

These tasty little berries have been scientifically proven to slow the growth of some cancerous tumours. Blueberries also have anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent bacteria growth in the stomach, bladder and intestines.

3. Goji Berries

Packed with more Vitamin C than oranges, more beta carotene than carrots and more iron than red meat, goji berries are a great source of antioxidants and amino acids. But they are not actually a superfood. The Chinese have been fans of goji berries for centuries and use them in potions, not cooking, to help improve blood circulation, strengthen the limbs, improve eyesight, protect the liver, increase libido and boost immune function. Avoid eating goji berries if you have arthritis.

Quick tip: beta carotene helps create antioxidants in the body and is used to prevent cancers, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and high blood pressure.

4. Chia Seeds

Against popular demand, chia seeds are not actually a superfood. Although they are high in protein, omega-3 and fibre, they contain the less useful type of omega-3 so eating a piece of salmon is much better for your body. Chia seeds do however, keep you feeling fuller for longer but they are also packed with antioxidant compounds that can affect the absorption of certain minerals and can be potentially allergenic.

5. Quinoa

Packed with protein, quinoa like chia seeds is not a superfood despite what people tell you! Quinoa is high in carbohydrates so eat sparingly as it also can cause stomach irritation.

Here is a tasty snack you can eat throughout the day using some of the above ingredients.

Superfood Trail Mix

Servings: 8

Ingredients

½ Cup Pistachios Nuts

¼ cup Chia Seeds

½ Cup Walnuts, Halved

½ Cup Pecans, Whole

½ Cup Goji Berries

½ Cup Acai Berries

½ Cup Dried Cranberries

½ Cup Dried Blueberries