5 Superfoods to add important vitamins and minerals to your diet naturally

We’re all trying to live a little healthier, eating as much food from nature as possible to get all nutrients we need without having to opt for vitamin pills and supplements. Some of these foods have become labelled as superfood thanks to their high density in certain nutrients. But if you can’t see the wood for the trees in the world of superfoods anymore (as there are no set criteria for determining what is and what is not superfood) you’ll find this summary of 5 of the most popular superfoods useful to pick the ingredients that suit your needs. To make it easy and tasty to add them to your diet, we’ve also included some delicious smoothie recipes so that you can start reaping the benefits of these powerhouse foods.

Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that grows in both salt and fresh water. Spirulina has been consumed for centuries due to its high nutritional value and health benefits. Spirulina contains a number of nutrients, including B vitamins, beta-carotene and vitamin E. A 7 gram portion contains 4 grams of protein with essential amino acids ( the building blocks of protein) making it a great source of vegan protein. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which can protect against oxidative damage. Spirulina powder can be easily added to smoothies and smoothie bowls. Spirulina blends really well with fruit and juice-based smoothies. Spirulina has an intense blue-green colour, great for all those pretty smoothie bowl creations.

Maca is a plant that grows in central Peru, it has been cultivated as a crop in this area for many years. In foods maca is eaten baked, roasted or prepared as a soup. Maca root powder is a good source of carbs and protein, and rich in a number of nutrients including vitamin C, copper and iron. It is also a great mood booster, known for the ability to relieve depression and anxiety. Maca has also been studied as a remedy for hormonal imbalances and its rich phytochemical content is great for relieving the symptoms of PMS and menopause. Maca has an earthy, nutty taste and can be added to smoothies, oatmeal and sweet treats. Try it in a peanut butter smoothie, check the recipe below.

The moringa plant is gaining more popularity as a superfood due to its highly nutritious profile and powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and tissue protective properties. Moringa Oleifera is also known as horseradish tree, is a small tree from India, Pakistan and Nepal which has been used for generations in Eastern countries to treat and prevent diseases. Moringa is also popular as a natural leaf powder supplement. The pods, roots, bark, flowers, seeds and fruits are also edible. Moringa is nutrient packed, a rich source of vitamins, minerals and amino acids. It contains significant amounts of vitamin A, C and E, calcium, potassium and protein. It also fights free radicals and inflammation, moringa has blood clotting properties that benefit wound healing. You can add Moringa to your smoothies like the mango smoothie below or tea. The powder has a mild flavor, so it makes for a light Moringa tea with a slightly earthy taste.

Baobab is a tree native to certain regions of Africa. The Baobab tree can produce a large fruit that is commonly consumed and appreciated for its delicious citrus like flavour. The pulp, leaves and seeds, have been associated with many health benefits and are a staple in various recipes and cuisines. The leaves are rich in calcium and high-quality proteins. Powdered baobab pulp contains many important nutrients but is especially high in vitamin C, B6, niacin, iron and potassium. Aside the nutritional value, baobab can be used to add punch of flavour to desserts, stews, soups and smoothies. Give it a try while boosting your immune system with the recipe below.

Turmeric is used internationally as a staple spice in cuisine, holistic medicine, and even coloring in cosmetics. Turmeric has been providing the world with countless uses and immense health. Turmeric has a warm, bitter taste and is frequently used to flavor or colour curry powders, mustards, butters and cheeses. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory, the active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin a potent anti-inflammatory. Some people apply turmeric to their skin for pain, swelling and inflammation. You can add turmeric to your tea, mix it up in a curry, blend it into a smoothie, or juice it. To increase absorption of turmeric, best to enjoy it with good fat like avo, coconut oil and curries. You can also add it to your favourite smoothies or try it with our turmeric coffee smoothie.