What's So Super About Superfoods? — exhiLARAated wellness

So what are superfoods?

Fun Fact: they do not technically exist as a food group (according to the American Heart Association). The term ‘superfood’ developed as a marketing tool for the advertising industry to refer to nutrient dense foods with a large amount of health benefits.

These nutrient dense foods contain benefits such as antioxidants to fight off cancer, healthy fats to help our heart, and phytochemicals to reduce risk of chronic disease, among many other things. Just like everything else in life, balance is key. While superfoods are super important, if they are not in collaboration with a colorfully diverse diet then your body will still not experience the maximum advantages.

A majority of people are familiar with superfoods such as blueberries, kale and salmon; and have heard of some others such as acai, matcha and ashwagandha but have no freakin’ clue what they are, what they taste like, where they come from or why they should be throwing them into their morning smoothie… I got you girl!

Here are a few of my personal faves, but just like everything else that is health related, everyone will have a different experience with superfoods in relation to their personal wellness goals, taste preferences, and lifestyle.

ASHWAGANDHA

Ashka-what-now?

This ancient medical herb is a popular Ayurvedic adaptogen that increases energy and alleviates stress. As it reduces the amount of cortisol released from the adrenal glands, ashwagandha lowers anxiety and inflammation, as well as blood sugar, by helping the body maintain homeostasis even through physical and emotional stress. Homeostasis keeps all elements of your body at a relatively stable level, including hormones. To my friends struggling with thyroid issues - regular use of ashwaganda supports a sluggish thyroid, i.e. Hashimoto’s disease, i.e. underactive / hypothyroidism. Research has seen significant improvements in the stimulation of thyroid hormones (TSH and T4) when taking 600mg of ashwagandha daily.

Yes it’s true, and I will attest to its magic.

Highly in favor.

Five Stars.

Would recommend to a friend.

Disclaimer: the powder is a bit potent, so I usually stick to liquid form, but I have also heard good things about the capsules.

SPIRULINA

The Mean Green Toxic-Fighting Machine.

Spirulina is an anti-inflammatory agent that contains many antioxidants and helps regulate the immune system. There is evidence that spirulina has the ability to reduce nasal inflammation, as well as histamine in the body; which means you can say a nice natural goodbye to those annoying runny-nose-sneezy-itchy allergy symptoms. Lock the door on your way out.

Spirulina is a great source of tryptophan, an amino acid that supports serotonin production. Serotonin plays an important role in mental health, happiness and mood. It does not stop there. Spirulina may also contain detoxification properties that could potentially counteract pollutants in the body, such as arsenic, lead, mercury and fluoride. With high protein and vitamin content, this blue-green algae supplement is ideal for vegetarians and vegans.

MACA

I’m Sexy and I know it.

Even though I think it kind of tastes like an earthy chocolate flavor, believe it or not, it is a cruciferous root. Maca is basically the Peruvian cousin of broccoli. It’s claim to fame came in the early 2000s when a study came out that had discovered the sexual powers to increase libido in both men and women. Maca has been said to increase semen quality, which increases fertility for men, while decreasing erectile disfunction. It contains flavonoids which improve mood and promotes natural antioxidants to fight free radicals. I personally love the benefits it brings to my energy and endurance.

Disclaimer: Maca is relatively new to the research community, and will continue to get more in depth testing before making any conclusive claims. Always consult with your doctor before making drastic lifestyle changes, especially if you have a preexisting condition.

Moral of the story,

mother nature has some incredible resources to heal our bodies. So next time you are suffering from an ailment or discomfort, try some holistic healing before reaching for the medicine cabinet.

XO ExWel

Interested in knowing more about a particular superfood that I did not mention? Leave a comment below and let me know! We’re all in this together.