Super Foods

As our desire for finding natural foods to fight disease and promote good health increases, so does the list of "super foods" being discovered by health experts. Labelled "super" because of the numerous health benefits they provide, here are some examples for you.

Acai Berries - Their home was the rain forests of the Amazon forest, but these days Acai berries can be found in tablet and juice form on the shelves of most heath shops around the country. They are packed with the antioxidant vitamins A, C, E, which fight free radicals and disease in the body and help to promote good health. Acai berries also contain minerals like copper, potassium, calcium and zinc, amino acids and essential fatty acids, which can help to repair and maintain body tissues, improve muscular function and improve the overall heart health. As if this is not enough, these berries are said to have a beneficial effect on the body's digestive system and by increasing body metabolism; they can even help towards weight loss. The berries can be taken in juice form to provide a nutritionally packed drink that tastes of chocolate and berries, all rolled into one.

Algae - Considering that algae produce more than 71% of the world's oxygen, it is not surprising that this green substance floating on riverbeds has acquired the status of a "super food". Vitamin and mineral rich, Algae is said to help people who suffer from heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis and even obesity. Scientists at the Carnegie Institute in Washington discovered that Algae is not only full of antioxidants and amino acids but is also a good source of protein. Spirulina is easy to digest and is good for the heart, the brain and the body's immune system. In the UK, Nadia Brydon, a senior therapist in complementary medicine at the Breast Cancer Haven is promoting the detoxifying and antioxidant qualities of chlorella in fighting breast cancer.

Goji Berries - Whereas the East discovered the benefits of these berries thousands of years ago, they appeared in Western health stores only recently. The scientific name of these berries is Lycium barbarum but they are popularly known as "goji" berries, a name used for them in China. Red in colour, these raisin look alikes might look tiny but they come packed with antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, vitamins B1, B2 and Niacin, 18 amino acids, trace minerals including selenium, calcium and zinc, fibre and iron. The Chinese have been using them for years to improve eyesight, liver function and blood circulation, boost sperm production and to promote longevity. Goji berries are also said to be anti ageing which definitely make them a great super food to snack on.

Quinoa - The Aztecs were enjoying the benefits of this "grain" thousands of years ago but its super qualities lay undiscovered by us until recently. Claimed to be a complete protein food it can prove essential especially for those on a vegetarian diet. Full of essential amino acids necessary for building healthy muscle, Quinoa is also rich in minerals like iron, potassium and calcium. It also contains vitamins like the B vitamins and vitamin E. Used in risottos, salads and soups, this nutty seed provides magnesium, an essential mineral that relaxes blood vessels and is especially of help to those suffering from migraines, blood pressure, high cholesterol and insomnia.