Including superfoods in your diet really can give you a super body.
The top ten superfoods to include in your diet are:
1 – Wild blue-green algae
Blue-green algae are packed full of amino acids, protein and beneficial enzymes and are a great source of chlorophyll and B vitamins. They are available in most healthfood stores, on sale as a liquid, capsule or powder.
If you are susceptible to colds and 'flus, wild blue-green algae can be a great help. As well as strengthening the immune system, introducing algae into your diet can improve concentration and memory.
This superfood also helps if you feel tired all the time, by promoting healthy, natural sleep.
2 – Cacao
That's right; one of the main components in chocolate is a great superfood. However, this doesn't mean you should rush to the sweet shop, because unfortunately chocolate is also full of refined sugar, milk, saturated fat and hydrogenated oils.
But natural, raw cacao beans are one of the best sources of antioxidants and also contain many helpful vitamins and minerals.
Women who eat raw cacao beans have reported that their skin becomes softer, smoother and more radiant. And if that doesn't get you eating them, perhaps the irresistible chocolatey taste will…
3 - Borage
Also known as the starflower, borage is a beautiful herb which grows through most of Europe.
This is a hugely versatile plant, with each part producing distinctive flavours. The leaves taste like ripe cucumber, and make a great ingredient in salads and soups, while the flower has a sweet taste similar to honey.
Borage is also used to make tea, and is a good source of gamma-linolenic acid, which helps the body fight inflammatory diseases.
4 – Aloe vera
Aloe vera isn't just for your shampoo! This sweet-smelling plant is extremely versatile, since it acts as a natural preservative as well as aiding digestion.
It helps in the treatment of numerous bowel and skin conditions, and has been shown to improve stamina and alertness.
5 - Spirulina
As a great source of protein, spirulina helps control hunger, making it a key food if you want to lose weight. Spirulina also balances blood sugar, ensuring your energy levels stay stable throughout the day.
For a refreshing wake-up call, drink 1 teaspoon of spirulina mixed with fruit juice.
6 – Barley grass
Green barley grass contains almost every nutrient the human body needs, except for vitamin D which comes from sunlight.
With 11 times more calcium than milk, five times more iron than spinach and seven times more vitamin C than orange juice, barley grass is a great source of nutrients that are needed to keep the heart, lungs, joints and bones healthy.
It is also a great energy booster, helps lower cholesterol and works as an anti-inflammatory. A real all-rounder!
7 – Wheat grass
Wheat grass needs to be juiced to get the full benefits. Alternatively, tablets and powders will be available from your local healthfood store.
It is an excellent source of calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc. As well as providing exceptional nourishment, wheat grass assists the immune system, aids digestion and can help you shift excess weight.
8 – Alfalfa grass
Alfalfa has been used as a herbal remedy for over 1500 years, as it can help boost strength and energy. It contains around four times more vitamin C than citrus fruits, as well as high levels of protein, calcium, vitamin A, amino acids and chlorophyll.
There are numerous uses, such as treating bladder disorders, aiding digestion, treating anaemia and relieving the symptoms of pre-menstrual tension.
9 – Propolis
Produced by bees, who use propolis to reinforce their hive structure, this sticky material comes from a wide range of trees and plants – especially poplar and fir.
Propolis has been used to treat ulcers, reduce the chance of developing cataracts and to support the immune system. As it works as a natural antibiotic, you should benefit from taking the lozenges and tablets that will be available in your local healthfood store.
10 – Kelp
A form of seaweed, kelp is high in essential vitamins and minerals. It is available as a powder of tablet and can also be sprinkled over dishes as a seasoning. If you add a strip of kelp to the pot when cooking beans, it will help convert indigestible sugars that are responsible for flatulence.
While there are other superfoods that would benefit your diet, if you start eating the top ten, you will be on your path to getting a super body. You can then introduce others gradually as you go along.
More information about superfoods can be found at www.gillianmckeith.info. Gillian McKeith is a groundbreaking nutritionist, who has helped numerous people discover how to be healthier and happier.
She is the author of the newest bestselling book 'Gillian McKeith's Food Bible', and known around the world for her television programme You Are What You Eat.
