What is a superfood? Superfoods are nutrient dense foods with vast amounts of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, essential fatty and amino acids, beneficial fats, polyphenols, and other nutrients that promote longevity, well-being, and optimal health.
SUPERFOODS
Camu Camu Berries
Also known as Myrciaria dubia, this superfruit from the Amazon rainforest is the most potent botanical source of vitamin C on the planet (30-60x more than oranges). The camu berry acts as an antidepressant due to its ability to strengthen, protect, and nourish the nervous system. It has antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-mutagenic, and emollient properties. Oh, and it's a very rich source of flavonoids, including high amounts of ellagic acid, which produces anti-diabetic effects. Given that camu has a low glycemic index as well, diabetic and pre-diabetic individuals can safely reap the nutritional benefits. The camu berry can also help prevent artherosclerosis, or clogged arteries, reducing the risk of heart complications. One hundred grams of camu camu berries provides small amounts of vitamin B1, B2, and niacin, to go along with beta-carotene, potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, and 1.55 grams of protein. They are low in calories and contain virtually no fat. Furthermore, these berries are a great source of dietary fiber.
Due to its vitamin C content and its ability to increase serotonin levels in the brain, the camu berry can improve mood. Likewise, it protects the brain from neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia. Alzheimer's is caused by a buildup of plaque on brain nerves, which is reversible through proper nutrition and physical/mental exercise. In addition, camu protects your eyes from degenerative diseases. Being anti-hepatitic, camu is extremely beneficial for the liver, not only in disease prevention, but also in promoting detoxification. Camu has also been linked to increased fertility.
Maqui Berries
One of the most antioxidant rich foods in the world, the maqui berry is packed with anthocyanins, delphinidin, petunidin, malvidin, triterpenes, cumarins, flavonoids, and cyanidin. In fact, maqui berries have 300% more anthocyanins and 150% more polyphenols than any other known food or drink. The delphinidins greatly reduce inflammation, which is pivotal considering that any disease ending in "itis" is caused by inflammation, as well as other serious diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Reduced inflammation results in reduced physical pain. Maqui berries also signficantly increases insulin levels in the body, suppress blood glucose levels, and prevent the development of new fat cells. Also present in maqui berries are potent anti-bacterial compounds, which can effectively treat infections and foodborne illnesses. Additionally, it contains vitamins A and C, calcium, potassium, iron, and omega fatty acids.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a rich source of lauric acid (only natural source other than breast milk), which is converted into monolaurin in the body, and is extremely toxic to bacteria, funguses, viruses, and other microorganisms. It eliminates them by disrupting their lipid membranes. It's natural, non-toxic, and a great way to treat viruses and various infections without the use pharmaceutical drugs and their potential side effects. Coconut oil resists rancidity, slowly oxidizes and is heat stable, making it appropriate for high temperature cooking. Coconut oil is also loaded with medium-chain fatty acids, which provide unique effects that differ from long chain fatty acids. These MCFA's have no negative effect on cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease and artherosclerosis. They are also converted into instant energy because the liver and gallbladder don't need to digest and emulsify them. Other health benefits of MCFA's include better circulation, increased metabolic rate, and more heat production.
The presence of lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid, as well as antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial properties contribute to skin care, hair care, weight loss, increased immunity, proper digestion and metabolism, dental care, stress relief, and heart health. Applying coconut oil to the scalp can relieve dandruff by killing off fungus. The fatty acids in coconut oil are unique in that they can freely flow into the hair's cell membrane, which results in a much deeper conditioning from within. The medium chain tryglycerides deeply moisturize skin and provide protection against environmental and free radical damage. It's also a natural sunscreen as it has the ability to block 20% of ultraviolet exposure. Coconut oil helps prevent premature aging and treats skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, and others. The content of vitamin E helps speed up the recovery of skin abrasions, burns, and other injuries. Coconut oil also helps the body absorb minerals such as calcium and magnesium, supporting overall bone health.
Mangosteen
Mangosteen, commonly touted as the "Queen of Fruits", is a small, tropical fruit native to southeast Asia. It has long been used in this region as traditional medicine, as well as a potent source of nutrition. Mangosteen is a rich source of xanthones, naturally occurring phytochemicals with powerful antibiotic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Xanthones are found in an array of dark red fruits and rainforest plants, but are exceptionally plentiful in the rind of the mangosteen fruit. The mangosteen contains more than 40 of these biologically-active, naturally occurring xanthones. It also contains polysaccharides, polyphenols, proanthocyanidins, catechins, quinones, and stilbenes. Additionally, the mangosteen is a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, and a moderate source of B-complex vitamins, copper, manganese, and magnesium. Studies have shown that mangosteen has the ability to prevent and treat cancer by not only inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells, but also inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death).
Goji Berries
Also known as "wolfberries", goji berries are one of the most nutrient dense foods in the world. Goji berries contain at least 18 amino acids, including eight essential amino acids, making them a complete protein. They also contain 21 trace minerals, including zinc, iron, calcium, germanium, copper, selenium, and phosphorus, and are the richest source of carotenoids on the planet. When it comes to vitamin content, goji's are loaded with vitamins A (beta carotene), B1, B2, B6, C, and E. Goji berries are a rich source of polysaccharides, which are known to fortify immunity and promote the growth of friendly intestinal bacteria. These polysaccharides provide certain sugars to immune cells which allow them to communicate more effectively. They also play a significant role in body detoxification. Furthermore, goji berries are the only known food on the planet to stimulate the secretion of human growth hormone. This is due to the presence of sesquiterpenoids, which also have anti-inflammatory properties. And because goji berries also contain L-arginine, L-glutamine, and potassium, which have synergistic effects when combined, they even further promote the production of HGH. The goji berry is also an adaptogen, meaning it enhances the body's ability to handle stress. Goji berries contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two key nutrients for healthy vision and protecting from age-related loss of sight. Other benefits include increased sexual function, improved sleep, improved appetite, and an increased sense of well-being.
Acai Berries
Indigenous to the Amazon region of South America, the acai berry is abundant in anthocyanins, antioxidants, amino acids, calcium, iron, fiber, polyphenols, beta-sisterol, and vitamins A, C, and E. Acai berries are bountiful in omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, both of which are essential for maintaining a healthy heart and protecting the entire cardiovascular system. Acai also fights free radical damage, which is thought to slow the aging process and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Mixed martial artists and soccer players in Brazil often consume acai berries before competing because they provide a huge energy and stamina boost. The fatty acids in acai are not stored as fat by the liver, but are used to propel metabolism, which promotes weight loss. Studies have shown that acai berries have the ability to trigger self-destruction in cancer cells. They are also a good source of niacin, riboflavin, and vitamin B6.
Chlorella
Chlorella is a green, single-celled algae that contains a multitude of nutrients and beneficial properties. All B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, magnesium, iron, trace minerals, beta carotene, amino acids, and protein (over 58%) are all present in this superfood. It is a very powerful detoxifier as it binds to toxins and heavy metals and carries them out of the body. Chlorella is the richest source of chlorophyll per ounce on the planet, which cleanses and purifies the blood, allows the body to more efficiently use oxygen, and supports detoxification. It is the fastest growing plant in the world and quadruples in quantity every 20 hours, which is made possible by chlorella growth factor (CGF). CGF is a concentration of a variety of nutrients that work synergistically to boost the growth, healing, and repair of tissue. Chlorella is also useful for balancing hormones, increasing white blood cell count, treaiting fatique, protecting the brain and nervous system, boosting immune response, and balancing blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. Many studies have shown that chlorella is also very powerful in treating and protecting cancer by raising blood levels of albumin.
Spirulina
This blue-green algae is such a potent source of nutrition that you could survive off of it and water alone. It contains chlorophyll, anthocyanins, and phycocyanins, and has around 60-70% protein, including eight essential amino acids and 10 non-essential, which are pre-digested for quick absorption and high utilization rates. Spirulina is a good source of gammo-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA), RNA, DNA, iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, vitamin B6. In fact, all B vitamins are found in spirulina. Plentiful in carentoid antioxidants, spirulina is loaded with 10x more beta carotene than carrots, as well as zeaxathin and lutein, which are all vital for eye health. The nutrition doesn't end there, as it also contains vitamin D, calcium, chromium, iodine, magnesium, potassium, selenium, phosphorus, copper, and zinc. Spirulina also contains polysaccharides that improve the functionality of bone marrow, thymus, and spleen cells. Additionally, it is the richest source of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the world, a powerful antioxidant that specifically neutralizes the superoxide molecule. SOD has a very powerful anti-aging effect. Other benefits include producing more white and red blood cells, improved digestion, skin care, supports a healthy heart, and promotes weight loss.
Purple Corn
A superfood from the coastal regions of Peru, purple corn is quite unique as it's one of the very few purple plants found in nature. It is also unique because of three powerful antioxidants; cyanidin 3-glucoside, pelargonidin, and peonidin. CG3 is an extremely powerful antioxidant that has been shown to destroy cancer cells, improve vision, lower LDL cholesterol, improve blood vessel function and overall heart health, prevent diabetes and obesity, and slow the aging process. Purple corn also has ample amounts of anthocyanins and phenolics, and a variety of other phytonutrients. It's high phenolic content provides adequate protection against degenerative diseases. Anthocyanins in purple corn have strong anti-hypertensive, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, improve circulation, and promote collagen formation. They typically produce blue, red, and purple colors. According to an ancient Hopi prophecy, when purple corn makes it to the West, it's a sign that great changes are happening on the planet. Purple corn has one of the highest antioxidant contents of any food in the world.
Mulberries
Mulberries contain a significant amount of anthocyanins, the chemicals that give berries their color. They are also rich in resveratrol, which protects against stroke, prevents cancer, increases endurance, and fights against neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, they are a good source of vitamin C, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, vitamin K, and B-complex group vitamins. Just like goji berries, mulberries are relatively high in protein for a fruit, and also low in calories. Mulberries also contain alkaloids that activate macrophages (white blood cells), which stimulate the immune system. Other health benefits include blood cleansing properties, improved eyesight, improved blood circulation, anti-inflammatory, free radical scavenger, anti-aging, promotes a healthy liver, calms nerves, and lowers blood pressure. These berries contain small amounts of vitamin A, vitamin E, lutein, zeaxanthin, B-carotene, and a-carotene, but combined pack a powerful punch.
Goldenberries
Otherwise known as Incan berries and cape gooseberries, goldenberries are a botanical relative to the tomato and potato and have been growing in the Andes for thousands of years. Goldenberries are rich in bioflavonoids, which have anti-carcinogenic, antiviral, antioxidant, antihistamine, and anti-inflammatory properties. They are yet another great source of protein (roughly 16%) for non-meat eaters. In addition, goldenberries are a fantastic source of phosphorus, which, along with calcium, is necessary for growing strong bones and teeth. They are also very high in vitamin A, vitamin C, and B-complex vitamins, including B1, B2, B6, and B12. The combination of these B vitamins helps increase energy levels, reduce stress, improve memory, stimulate metabolism, relieve PMS, and lower the risk of heart disease. The goldenberry has been shown to help treat numerous health issues, including asthma, edema, intestinal parasites, varying skin conditions, and optic nerve disorders.
Pomegranates
Originally native to Persia, the pomegranate is bursting with antioxidants and nutrients. One of those antioxidants is punicalagin, a polypenic antioxidant that, along with tannins, fight free radicals and lower the risk of heart disease. Pomegranates are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B5, as well as tannins and flavonoids. They also contain copious amounts of polyphenols, including the previously mentioned punicalagins, ellagitannins, catechins, anthocyanins, and gallocatechins. Pomegranates are extremely beneficial for heart health. The vast amount of antioxidants decreases inflammation and thickening of artery walls. It also reduces the build-up of cholesterol and plaque. The polyphenols in pomegranates have been shown to dramatically boost the Th1 function of our immune system. This is our bodies immediate response to hostile and unwanted organisms. They are classified as T helper cells, Natural Killer cells, and T suppressor cells. Furthermore, pomegranates offer substantial protection against cancer, heart disease, and arthritis. Plus, they are high in fiber.
Medicinal Mushrooms (Chaga, Reishi)
Chaga - A fungus that grows on birch and other hardwood trees, chaga is nothing like common mushrooms as it is nearly as hard as wood. It's often heralded as the "Mushroom of Immortality" due to its nutritional potency. Interestingly enough, chaga draws its nutrients out of living trees instead of the ground. The variety from birch trees are thought to be more powerful because they are rich in betulinic acid, which is lethal to cancer cells. They have one of the highest ORAC ratings and are extremely rich in B vitamins, copper, calcium, manganese, potassium, zinc, and iron. Chaga is also a very powerful adaptogen, and has antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, it is one of the richest sources of superoxide dismutase in the world, an antioxidant that rapidly slows the aging process. Chaga also contains over 215 phytonutrients, including sterols, flavonoids, polysaccharides, vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols. The presence of beta glucans stimulate the production of antibodies and activate T cell activity, enhancing the immune system. Also present are phenolic compounds known as chromagenic complex, which are only found in chaga mushrooms. Chromagenic complex contains melanin and is extremely protective for all tissues and great for skin health in general. Chaga mushrooms strengthen immunity, increase feelings of well-being, fight aging, strengthen the nervous system, improve quality of sleep, promote detoxification and tons more!
Reishi - This medicinal mushroom contains anti-carcinogenic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It also normalizes blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels while regulating the immune system. They boost immunity by increasing the amount of macrophage T-cells, which is especially important for people with a depleted immune system. Reishi delivers an abundance of heart healthy properties, including ganoderic acids, sterols, coumarin, mannitol, and polysaccharides. It helps immune cells bind to tumor cells, slowing tumor growth. Reishi also contains vitamins B, C, D, iron, calcium, chitin, and phosphorus. Consistent consumption of reishi offers remarkable protection against two of America's most devastating diseases, heart disease and cancer.
Blueberries
Loaded with anthocyanidins, nutrients that fight free radical damage and enhance the effects of vitamin C, blueberries are an inexpensive and easy way to increase your intake of antioxidants. Also present in blueberries are flavonols, resveratrol, pterostilbene, and tannins, which have all been shown to stop the growth of cancer cells. Blueberries are very good sources of vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. Flavonoids, especially in blueberries, greatly slash the risk of metabolic syndrome and diabetes. They boost the production of adiponectin, a hormone which prevents your liver from developing insuline resistance. Blueberries also contain B-complex vitamins, vitamin E, vitamin A, potassium, iron, copper, and zinc. They have been shown to improve memory, protect neural tissue from oxidative stress, and boost brain function. Additionally, blueberries trigger the release of dopamine, lower elevated blood cholesterol, and improve cardiovascular health.
Elderberries
Used as a folk remedy for hundreds of years in North America, Europe, North Africa, and Asia, this superfruit is known to actively invigorate the immune system. However, the leaves, stems, and unripe berries contain toxic levels of cyanic glucosides, so only ripe, cooked berries are used in preparations such as preserves, wine, and medicinal extracts. Elderberries are brimming with a variety of nutrients, including flavonoids, carotenoids, amino acids, vitamins A and C, tannin, rutin, calcium, iron, vitamin B6, viburnic acid, lectins, and organic pigments. They are exceptionally powerful against the flu. The high levels of anthocyanins in elderberries increase cytokine production, which essentially destroy the virus before it becomes an issue. Moreover, elderberries offer protection against cancer and heart disease, especially when combined with other anthocyanin-rich berries.