Give your pantry a the super cape of honor by keeping it stocked with 7 superfood superstars!
Superfoods are natural foods that contain an exceptionally higher nutrient-density than other foods. Stocking your pantry with a few of these superfood basics will provide a great start to a super pantry as well as a lifestyle. The secret to success is to keep plenty of these choices on hand. The more nutrient-rich items you have in your pantry, the easier it will be to incorporate these into your diet daily.
With so many superfoods on the market, it is hard to choose the best ones because there are so many that can be added to this list and serve so many wonderful health purposes. For this reason, I kept with some simple and basic superfoods that can easily be found at the health food store. These are also some of my favorite choices that you can find in my pantry as well.
Superfood #1
Chia Seeds - This is my number one go-to superfood that contains an omega 3 fatty acid that helps to lower inflammation, helps support brain function, and boosts the immune system. It is also a great source of easily digestible protein, high in fiber and calcium.
Superfood #2
Flaxseed – Like chia seeds, flax also contains a high omega 3 fatty acid profile. It is high in fiber and protein and is particularly beneficial in protecting the heart.
Superfood #3
Hemp Seed - This is another one of my favorite go-to seeds for its rich omega 3, 6, 9 fatty acid profiles. Hemp is high in protein that is easily digestible. It is considered to have all essential amino acids and is a complete plant-based protein food. Thus, making it my number one go-to food for building muscle.
Superfood #4
Algae Powder – Spirulina and chlorella are two of the most popular algae on the market today. For starters, spirulina is 60–70 percent protein with chlorella following not too far behind at 58 percent. These are two plant-based protein superfoods which are a must to add to your pantry. Both spirulina and chlorella are rich in chlorophyll which helps with detoxification and can flush out heavy metals from the body. They are exceptionally high in micronutrients, antioxidants, and inflammation-fighting health properties. They can improve the immune system, improve mental function, and fight against cancer.
Superfood #5
Goji Berries - These delicious raisin-like berries are unique both in flavor and nutrients. Unlike raisins, goji berries are more tart than sweet. They are rich in vitamin C, contain 18 amino acids and have an amazing balance of all the macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, fat, and fiber). They are also rich in antioxidants that can help fight off free-radicals, and, due to the high carbohydrate content, they are a great source of energy.
Superfood #6
Maca Root Powder – Even though maca is known for its amazing energy and endurance-boosting properties, it is best known for supporting the adrenal glands which can help control stress. It has been touted as improving one's sexual health by being used as a sex drive superfood as it can help balance hormones and boost libido.
Superfood #7
Cacao Nibs – Cacao nibs are simply raw mini chocolate chips. They have a wonderful crunchy texture and are very flavourful. Cacao is rich in antioxidants and has a high source of magnesium which helps the muscles to relax. Cacao’s unique blend of phytochemicals has shown to help lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health. Raw cacao is a natural stimulant that can enhance emotions and mood by raising serotonin levels. It is no wonder that eating chocolate makes people feel good.
Stocking your pantry with new, unfamiliar foods can be intimidating. You don’t have to revamp your whole pantry all at once, but by just adding one item at a time, you can start to feel like a superstar with your superfoods!
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