Super Foods...Buzz Foods...The Low Down

January is a month that everyone begins fad diets to try and get back into shape ready for the Summer beach holidays...It is also a time when the words Super Food and Buzz Food pop up everywhere!

But what does "super food" mean?

I tend to use the phrase super food very loosely as I believe it is simply a marketing tool for the foods which come under this supposed umbrella. The foods are simply healthy and nutritious and can be used many different ways. 

What foods are "Super Foods"?

Chia Seeds

A member of the mint family and are the seeds of the Chia Plant. These seeds are a high source of fibre and protein, the contain omega-3 which is "super" for brain productivity. So for those of you with hard working jobs, or someone who is studying for exams then Chia Seeds could be the super food for you. 

How to use them: Chia seeds swell when soaked, so adding them into a pot with some coconut milk blended with a banana (leaving for 2 hours to soak) will give you a super tasty and healthy banana and coconut chia pudding.

Avocado

This is possibly my favourite of the lot. Avocados are great as they contain high amounts of Vitamin E which is good for keeping the skin healthy and glowing. This creamy fruit is also packed with essential fats that are important for our hearts. Eating Avocados can lower cholesterol, contributing to lowering the risk of developing heart disease. 

How to eat them: These can be eaten on toast with a poached egg, in salads or you could try making some homemade Guccamole.

Maca 

Maca is a root that belongs to the radish family and is avalible in powder form. Maca is rich in vitamins B, C and E and also provides plenty of Zinc, Calcium and Magnesium. Consuming Maca can increase energy levels and also stamina. Many athletes consume Maca as it has shown to improve overall performance. 

How to use: You can add Maca into a protein ball recipe or simply add a tea spoon into a smoothie.

Cacao Nibs

The middle part of the cocoa bean. Put simply Cacao is chocolate in its natural form, they contain no sugar ot preservatives and are high in antioxidants as well as fibre, magnesium and potassium all of which contribute to reducing the risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease. 

How to eat them: Raw with porridge or natural greek yoghurt or swap with chocolate chips in baking.

Quinoa

A wheat free alternative pronouced "keen-wa". With twice the protein content of rice or barley, quinoa is also a very good source of calcium, magnesium and manganese. It also possesses good levels of several B vitamins, vitamin E and dietary fibre. 
How to eat: Can be cooked similarly to rice but can also be toasted and used to make and incredible healthy and nutritious base to a salad.

You can get all of these products from most health stores or supermarkets, buywholefoods online is also a great website to order all from one place.