Goji berries
What? Dried, orangey-red, edible berries that look like raisins.
Why? They protect the liver, improve circulation, boost immune function and promote longevity. They can also combat malaria and alleviate fatigue, fever and hypertension. These berries have 18 amino acids, including 3 “essential” ones, and are rich in vitamins E and B. They’re also rich in carotenoids, such as beta carotenes and zeaxanthin (which protects the retina) Some studies have even shown that people with cancer seem to respond better to treatment when taking goji berries.
Kale
What? A cruciferous vegetable, which provides more nutritional value for its calories than any other food.
Why? Kale has a high concentration of antioxidant and vitamins A, C and K, as well as sulphur-containing phytonutrients.
1 cup contains 36 calories, 5 grams of fibre, 9% of your daily vitamin B6 requirement, 15% of your daily calcium requirement, 180% of your daily vitamin A requirement, 40% of your daily magnesium requirement, 200% of your daily vitamin C requirement and 1,020% of your daily vitamin K requirement. It's also a good source of copper, potassium, iron, manganese and phosphorus. It’s rich in carotenoids and flavonoids, high in antioxidants, helps reduce the risk of cancer and lowers cholesterol.
Sprouts
What? Plants in their youngest forms.
Why? Sprouts are some of the most complete, beneficial foods around. In fact, they’re the most reliable year-round source of vitamin C, beta carotene and many B vitamins. They are extremely easy to digest and preserve body enzymes as the starch and complexes carbohydrates are already pre-digested. Almost all vegetables and grains can be consumed in sprout form.
Maca
What? A root that has been a staple in the Peruvian Andes for thousands of years.
Why? Maca increases energy, strength and libido, helps the endocrine system and balances hormones. It can also help with menopausal issues and symptoms of altitude sickness. A rich source of fatty acids and sterols, Maca is also a great source of calcium, magnesium, sulphur, potassium and phosphorus, and is rich in vitamins B1, B2, C and E.
Cacao
What? Powder made from cacao beans.
Why? Raw cacao powder boasts over 300 different chemicals and has 20 times the antioxidant power of blueberries. It’s a good source of protein, calcium magnesium, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, sulphur and flavonoids. It also increases blood flow to the brain, enhances brain function and improves mood, as it regulates serotonin and tryptophan levels. Rich in iron, chromium, manganese, zinc and vitamin C, cacao can even trigger weight loss (yessss ...) and have a beneficial effect on blood pressure, insulin resistance and platelet function.
Coconut oil
What? Oil derived from coconuts. Why? Rich in MCT (healthy small- to medium-chain saturated fats), coconut oil is fully digestible and contains a large amount of lauric acid, which has antiviral, antibacterial and antiprotozoal properties. Good for promoting weight loss and helping maintain a healthy body weight, coconut oil can also reduce the risk of heart disease, support thyroid function, boost the metabolism and increase energy levels. In addition, it can help prevent infection, control diabetes, improve digestive disorders such as Crohn’s disease and IBS and protect the liver from alcohol damage. It also rejuvenates skin and prevents wrinkles!
Hemp seeds
What? Seeds derived from the hemp plant.
Why? Available in seed or oil form, hemp seeds contain essential fatty acids and are a great source of protein. They can help fight coronary heart disease and cancer and can even counter symptoms of depression. They can also help with allergies, ADHD and weight loss, can support recovery from disease and injury, have been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and can reduce inflammation, control blood sugar and improve digestion.
Chia seeds
What? Seeds derived from a desert plant that is a member of the mint family.
Why? Chia plants grow in Mexico and were the main component of the Aztec and Mayan diets. Rich in Omega-3, they can reduce joint pain, help weight loss, deliver an energy boost and protect against diabetes and heart disease.
Garlic and turmeric
What? Herbs renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Why?Garlic and turmeric are considerable health promoters, especially when it comes to fighting cancer and cardiovascular disease. Both have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, and garlic has even been proven to have antibiotic effects against germs. Garlic is also rich in saponins, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, selenium, polyphenol, arginine, vitamin