Super foods!

I was asked to write about some superfoods... so here you go :)

• Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties. This energy tonic contains vitamins A, B12, C, and E, the minerals sulfur, calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, and chromium, as well as antioxidants, fiber, amino acids, enzymes, sterols, lignins, essential fatty acids and is naturally rich in polysaccharides. The polysaccharides that are available in aloe have a particular lubricating effect on joints, brain and nervous system and the skin. They allow our immune system to fight back chronic viral, nanobacteria, and fungal infections. 

• Spirulina is anywhere from 62-71 percent essential amino acids. It contains beta carotene. It also contains chlorophyll, , and vitamin B12. It is actually the richest source of vitamin B12. B12 is important for healthy tissues, energy, and nerves…especially for strict vegetarians.
•   My mum uses spirulina in smoothies, or mixes it with alittle milk and drinks it like that... i have never used it... 

• Barley Grass has high anti-oxidant properties and significant levels of Omega 3 essential fatty acids, necessary for healthy cell wall development and brain function. Barley grass is also an alkaline food and helps keep the pH of the bloodstream at a normal healthy level. 

• Coconut oil helps to balance hormones, stabilize blood sugar levels and boost the cellular healing process. It is also known to stimulate the thyroid and reduce stress on the liver and pancreas. This increases metabolism and helps us burn fat more effectively. Additionally, coconut oil increases our energy levels due to its very clean and easy digestive process. 

  I use coconut oil whenever im baking/frying foods...  especially great when you are making pancakes :) 

• Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 and 6 fatty acids.

• Spinach offers twice as much fiber as other greens, so eating this food helps you feel fuller longer. Fiber slows down digestion, which can prevent you from feeling hunger for longer if you had gone for, say, iceburg lettuce, instead of baby spinach in your salad. Cooked spinach still contains great nutrients, but overcooking can take those away. Spinach is loaded with lutein, which keeps your eyes healthy and sparkling.

• Salmon:
  Fish oils, such as salmon, can help to lower triglycerides in the blood and, therefore, reduce the amount of stored fat on your body. Omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in pill form as well, help keep skin supple and soft.

• Avocados:
  This food is a natural diuretic that flushes out excess sodium and “water weight”. Say goodbye to bloating! It’s packed with vitamin B, which is a natural remedy for PMS. These babies also prevent wrinkling, by increasing the amount of collagen in your skin with glutathione. Use mashed avocado on your face, leave on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse off. 

• Grapefruit:
  In one study, 100 volunteers who ate half a grapefruit before each meal for 12 weeks lost an average of 3.6 pounds without dieting. It blocks enzymes involved in fat and carbohydrate storage. It rejuvenates skin as well, by boosting cell renewal. Mix juice with sugar to make a paste and use on damp skin in the shower. 

• Blueberries:
  Are good for anti-inflammation, including bloating. There have also been some studies done on rats that may indicate that blueberries and weight loss have a more direct link. These studies showed that blueberries could reduce belly fat, improve blood sugar, and lower cholesterol levels. The antioxidants in blueberries protect you from premature aging, as well.