health

Benefiting from a New Type of Green: Wheatgrass as a Superfood

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The health benefits from wheat grass are no longer news. Several products from the superfood sprung like mushrooms after researches unveiled the potential of wheat grass as the next big thing in the health industry. And next big thing, it truly was.

A mere 30 mL of freshly squeezed juice from wheat grass (a shot glass full) carries a nutritional value equivalent to that of a kilogram of leafy vegetable. If you think this is already impressive, you’d be more than surprised to find out that a teaspoon of powdered wheat grass (about 3.5 grams) contains the same level of nutrients found in an entire spinach salad. Wheatgrass also has twice the amount of Vitamin C from a kilogram of oranges, and doubled level of Vitamin A from a kilogram of carrots.

With this given, wheatgrass truly deserves to be a headline hugger. After all, it has more than ninety minerals – the highest number ever recorded for a superfood. More so, it contains 19 amino acids that serve as the building blocks of essential proteins. These work together with powerful enzymes, including:

  • Protease
  • Cytochrome Oxidase
  • Transhydrogenase
  • Amylase
  • Lipase
  • Superoxide Dismutase

These components brings forth a wide breath of health advantages that can uplift one’s well being and keep life threatening diseases at bay.

Greening Up the Blood…

 Health experts observed that the chlorophyll molecule of the grass mimics the nature of haemoglobin in the human blood, save for the differences in their internal element (magnesium for chlorophyll and iron for haemoglobin).

The similarities contribute to the ease of transforming chlorophyll into haemoglobin to increase the amount of RBCs in the blood. This allows more efficient delivery of nutrients and oxygen to different organs.

In the same vein, wheatgrass chlorophyll quickens the pace of building RBCs to normalize blood pressure and dilate blood vessels. The same benefit eliminates poisonous carbon dioxide inside the body and promote faster metabolism for weight loss.

Regularly drinking wheatgrass juice restores alkalinity of the blood to reduce over-acidity. As such, it can relieve internal pains and cure peptic ulcers, constipation, ulcerative colitis, and other digestion issues.

At the same time, wheatgrass serves as a natural antioxidant that can hamper the effect of carcinogens by detoxifying the liver and bloodstream.

Throwing Garbage Out from the Body

 Speaking of detoxification, wheat grass has also been the new favourite of health conscious individuals with its ability to purge toxins inside the body. Taking both the juice and powdered grass is effective in battling out free radicals to cleanse various areas of the body.

With the ideal levels of saponin, wheat grass can support the lymphatic system that’s responsible for flushing out almost all kinds of toxins that entered the body. Nutritionists explain that regular intake of wheat grass eliminates hardened mucous, crystallized acids and solid wastes.

More From the Green 

  • Stronger immune system and resistance to diseases
  • Protection against sickle cell anemia, anemia, and thalassemia
  • Enhanced reproductive potency of both men and women / increased fertility
  • Prevention of digestion-related problem, leukemia, diabetes, cancer, obesity, arthritis, etc.
  • Healthier skin and treatment of acne, black heads, sun burns, etc.
  • Regulated blood and cholesterol levels

Picking Prickly Pear: How Nopalea Juice Can Keep You Healthy

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Parched men who are trapped in a burning dessert extract cactus juice for refreshment and survival. The same holds true for those who are running low on nutrients and vitamins…except that it’s the fruits of the cactus they get the juice from.

Nopal cactus coined to as prickly pear is known to be the source of powerful superfood. Its fruits have long been consumed as food and alternative medicine. Though it can practically anywhere in the world, it thrives mostly inMexico.

This particular cactus is characterized by succulent oval pads and dark-coloured, pear-shaped fruits, and vibrant flowers. The pads, dubbed as “nopalitas” are stripped off of their pines to be used for culinary purposes. High-end restaurants serve the cactus raw (for salads), grilled, sautéed and pickled.

Nopalitas are known to be a good source of iron, B vitamins, iron, vitamin C, and calcium. But it’s the fruits that make it famous among health-conscious individuals as they carry a reputation as a potent superfood.

Prickly Pear is Not Exactly Thorny

 The fruit of the Nopal cactus was traditionally used by locals to treat numerous diseases and get relief from health conditions. Recent studies revealed that the prickly pear has properties that can enhance the function of immune and nervous system. Experts also unveiled its notable level of bioflavonoids that can give protection against free radicals and inflammation.

Prickly pears come with impressive health benefits – so impressive that the fruit was named as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. When the sunset-hued juice is consumed on a regular basis, you can gain a wide breath of health benefits.

Alleviating Chronic Pain

Nopalea juice is by far the most effective natural pain reliever for chronic pain. Patients with rheumatism and other illnesses that constantly endure unbearable pain as a symptom, are recommended to drink the juice daily.

Prickly pear has been observed to treat pain on specific areas of the body, and target the part of your brain that is susceptible to pain. Unlike pills and other drugs, Napolea juice does not “kill” the nerves that make you feel aches. Instead, it reduces inflammation and soreness on certain areas to prevent you from feeling groggy.

Protection from Inflammation

Scientists believe that chronic inflammation is one of the causes of many deadly illnesses and diseases such as cancer. As such, the prickly pear cactus juice gained high approval from doctors because of its anti-inflammation properties. Napolean juice halts inflammation before it becomes worst and lead to more serious conditions.

Flushing Out Toxins

 Extracts from the fruits of Nopal cactus are proven to have high levels of fiber that can help maintain healthy digestion. Drinking the juice can therefore flush out toxins and other harmful substances lurking in your colons. On the same token, the super drink can regulate bowel movements.

The cactus juice can also purge toxins that you may have ingested, breathed and drank unknowingly. Thanks to the powerful antioxidant, Betalain, you can flush out harmful radicals and molecules that may cause cellular damages, respiratory problems, and renal issues.

When Your Body Turns Golden

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A lot of people would think twice about (literally) eating a piece of jewellery, but some wouldn’t mind ingesting gold for its health benefits.

You read it right – gold can be consumed to gain optimal health. Studies revealed a new organic superfood coined to as Colloidal Gold. True to its name, it contains 99.99% pure gold that has been suspended in pure distilled water. Experts’ attention has been ensnared because of its proven ability to stabilize emotions while maintaining a sound mental and physical health.

With this said, gold might as well be dubbed as the new pink.

How Colloidal Gold Became a Superfood?

Well, the thought of eating gold alone seem to be a faction of a creative imagination taken out from a comic book. It is, in this sense, superficial.

The idea of consuming colloidal gold, nonetheless, is a hundred percent reality and has jumped from being superficial to being a superfood. In fact, gold tonics were drunk by elites few centuries ago for instant rejuvenation and maintenance of overall well-being. Its health benefits have also been the reason why gold became the primary material for making eating utensils: spoon, fork, cups and bowls.

If you’re hesitating about the safety of ingested gold, then your worries are spent on nothing. Gold is one of the metals that are vital in maintaining good metabolism, along with magnesium, manganese, zinc, selenium and iron.

The element also does not interfere with existing medications and other natural chemicals in the body. Gold is a highly revered non-toxic metal.

Why Should You Eat Colloidal Gold?

There are loads of reasons on why you should consume this superfood. While the body cannot absorb chunks of pure gold, it can get the most from the colloidal size of the element.

Ingesting colloidal gold has a wide range of health benefits, mostly concentrated in improving the mind’s functionality. Research has proven that gold is by far the most perfect nutrient in inducing peak levels of the brain’s efficiency.

Scientists explain that this can be accounted to the ability of the metal to increase the conductivity and communication that happens between the dendrites of the brain cells – messages from the nerves are “delivered” and transferred faster when gold is ingested. As such, colloidal gold is known to trigger one’s skill in multi-tasking and problem solving.

There are also reports on significant boost in individuals’ creativity and imagination. Some claim to have sounder sleep and better dream recall after taking colloidal gold supplements. Unsurprisingly, one particular study revealed a 20-point increase in the IQ of a controlled group that has been taking colloidal gold for three months.

Nutritionists also agree that pure colloidal gold is excellent in keeping the vigour of the body, by targeting specific body systems. It is the best supplement in keeping the joints, hart, brain and circulatory system at their optimal state. Given this, colloidal gold can also effectively shield the body from life-threatening diseases like cancer.

And yes, this superfood may just be the key to a golden mind and body.

All Oiled Up: Mega Benefits from Omega Contents of Sacha Inchi Oil

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Sacha Inchi is one of the oldest sources superfoods, and it just about time it step into the limelight.

The plant has been grown in the highlands of Peru, Amazon rainforests and east slope of lower Andes for three thousand years. Many archaeologists had found evidences of their use from the carvings they saw on Incan tombs.

The seeds are roasted to produce healthy nuts. In a more complex process the Sancha Inchi oil can be extracted for production.

So what is the Sacha Inchi buzz really all about?

Simple – the satisfaction it gives to savvy health conscious individuals who are looking for a yummier alternative for fish oil supplements. Saca Inchi oil made a splash, carrying with it 45% omega-3 fatty acid, 35% omega 6, 9% basic omega and 27% protein. This makes it one of the most powerful superfood ever known to man.

What Makes Sacha Inchi Super?

Few centuries back, locals residing near the Amazon rainforests consume the nuts and oil to get optimal health, solid endurance and sharper minds.

Studies are now pointing to the staggering levels of Omega 3’s, Fatty Acids, protein, amino acids, iodine and vitamins A and E. And though it sounds exotic, culinary practitioners may soon be shifting to Sacha Inchi to taste their salads and other cuisines. After all, the nutty flavour of the oil is said to be far more delish than vegetable oil and olive oil.

It is also easier to digest, allowing the body to absorb and all the nutrients to get the most out of its health benefits.

Gaining from Sacha Inchi Oil

Vegans and fans of raw foods are looking forward to the oil being the next big thing on health stores. Note that the oils are extracted from cold pressing process that’s free from refining and chemical additions.

It’s basically a superfood in its unadulterated, unsullied and untouched glory.

The following effects of the oil can therefore be observed almost immediately after the consumption:

  • Sharper thinking and improved cognitive functions
  • Longer attention span and better concentration
  • Enhanced moods
  • Alleviated pain and stiffness on the joints (making the oil perfect for patients with rheumatism)
  • Glowing skin, shinier hair and prettier nails
  • Relief from inflammation
  • Clearer vision

Regular intake and consumption of Sacha Inci oil can bring more health benefits which include:

Stronger Cardiovascular Muscles and Lower Cholesterol Levels

The oil is famous for its Omega 3, 6, and 9 contents that are notoriously wanted among patients with dangerously high HDL cholesterol levels. Aside from clearing out the build up of fats in the body, these also hamper blood clots. Saturated fats are kept static and mobile in the blood stream, thereby decreasing the risk of coronary diseases.

At the same time, the nutrients can keep stroke, heart attacks, hypertension, and diabetes at bay.

Improved Mental Health and Cure for Depression

Sacha Inchi oil is food for the brain in that it regulates nerve communication and transmission. It also maintains high level of fluidity and rigidity of the cell membranes.

More robust organs

This superfood can cure numerous skin diseases, asthma, migraine, ulcers, and glaucoma. Long acting ACE antioxidants in the oil is what keeps bronchial health well maintained. At the same time, it reduces pressures in the eyes, joints, and vessels.

Nibs to Stay Beautiful, Happy and In Love

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Nibbling raw cacao nibs is one of life’s great pleasures…minus the guilt.

High regard to chocolate as one of the most harmful junkfood is no secret. But this view should be attributed to commercial processing and refining techniques that tosses in loads of chemicals with the raw ingredients.

Remember that all chocolates are whipped out from cacao beans that are natural, organic, unadulterated, and unprocessed. Mixing the beans with white sugar makes chocolate one of the most harmful munchies. Nonetheless, eating it raw can help you absorb necessary nutrients and make the most out of its health benefits.

Nutrients in Cacao Nibs and how they Work

Flavonoids

Cacao has the highest level of this antioxidant than any sources tested like black teas, red wine and blueberries. In fact, the flavonoids in cacao nibs are four times more than that of green teas. This can bring the following health gains:

–          Stronger cardiovascular muscles: regular consumption of the nibs dilates blood vessels thereby reducing the risk of blood clots. Flavonoid also improves circulation, regulates blood pressure, and lowers the level of LDL cholesterol in the body. As such, eating the nibs is a step further from heart attacks and stroke.

–          Protection from toxins: cacao antioxidants eliminate possible cell and tissue damages that may resulted from free radicals. They also repair the dents and prevent certain cancers

Serotonin

Eating unprocessed cacao nibs increases the amount of serotonin in the brain. This is how it serves as an anti-depressant and cure to mood swings spurring out from PMS and menopausal symptoms/

Endorphins

Chocolates make you happy, and so do cacao nibs. The superfood promotes an overall sense of well being and induces a pleasurable sensation. This explains the “high” you get from indulging in sweets. This time, the experience is safer without potential harmful side effects.

Neurotransmitters

Cacao nibs can help you battle off fatigue and depression. The tiny beans can help you raise the level of neurotransmitters in your brain thus triggering the influx of positive thoughts and instant feeling of rejuvenation inside out.

Phenylethylamine and Anandamide

Hopeless romantics often claim that there’s no other state that can beat the feeling of being in love. Truth is, it is possible to feel the same giddiness and all-beautiful mood without necessarily finding a lover.

Snacking on the nibs is your golden ticket to being in love.

The beans can elevate mood and enhance alertness or concentration. They are found to contain two bliss chemicals that are produced by the brain only when you feel great. Cacao has N- acylethanolamines that can promote relaxation and prolong the “happiness.”

Sulphur

Who needs numerous beauty products when you have cacao nibs that can supply you with the beauty mineral? Sulfur is responsible in strengthening nails and hair strands. At the same time, it makes the skin glow as it flushes of toxins inside the body (particularly from the liver).

Essential fats

While fats have long been demonized, there’s such thing as healthy fats. These can be acquired from oleic acid that can raise the level of good cholesterol in the body. Ironically, it’s the essential fats that can make you slimmer by suppressing your appetite and letting you have full control of your diet.

Super Relief to Women’s Distress

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If you had enough of pre-menstrual syndrome or menopausal stress, it is probably time to include raw maca powder in your diet.

Maca is also called Peruvian Ginseng. It is a root crop that thrives in the high mountains of Peru. It has been 2,000 years when Peruvians started cultivating Maca for its wide range of health benefits. Long before the Westerners discovered it as a superfood, the root vegetable has already been serving the locals of Peruvian Andes well.

Maca is often consumed in its powdered form. This way, individuals can maximize its property as an adaptogen – having an ability to identify the stressed, weakened or painful parts of the body, and concentrate the healing process on these areas.

Alongside, maca powder is brimming with wide breath of minerals, amino acids, enzymes and vitamins. It is laden with 20 varying fatty acids, plus calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins B1, B2, B12, and C. Maca powder also contains more than 55 active phytochemicals. This includes hormonal precursors and sterols.

Women who are undergoing their “monthly burden” can then feel better when they take maca powder. Doing so puts their hormones back in balance, alleviates cramps, increases energy levels and puts a halt on mood swings.

Several studies have also proven the effectiveness of maca powder in enhancing performance in the sack, as it significantly increases libido and stamina.

But that’s not everything that you can gain from this superfood.

Advantages of Consuming Raw Maca Powder

Including the powder in your diet can help you regain a strong immune system, well-nourished body, and high level of energy. Alongside, it can also:

–          Contribute to overall soundness of health

–          Reduce Adrenal Stress

–          Improve memory

–          Sharpen the mind and makes learning a whole lot faster

–          Serve as a shield against cancer

–          Flush out toxins and battle free radicals

–          Fight off signs of aging

–          Make the skin spotless and glowing

–          Protect the cells against damages

How to Consume Raw Maca Powder

Dried maca tastes sweet and wee bit spicy. It’s interestingly yummy taste has gained its reputation as a famous delicacy. Alternatively, boiled maca is far sweeter than cocoa, making it a good alternative for chocolate as a desert.

Roasted Maca is just as delish. Some claim it tastes a lot like butterscotch, making it the most viable ingredient in making jams, puddings and juices.

On the same token, maca powder can also be used to whip out an eclectic of mouth watering confectionaries. It can be added as flavouring, taking the part of cinnamon and other powdered sweeteners. It can also be added to hot water to make a warm drink during chilly days. The malty taste of the powder mixes well with teas.

Some people also add the powder to their smoothies and daily tonic to have a safer and more effective energy drink. Athletes are particularly fond of adding few tablespoons of maca powder in their refreshments to maintain their needed endurance and power.

Small but Super: Impressive Benefits of Marine Phytoplankton

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You have probably heard back in grade school that whales feed from phytoplankton floating in the ocean waters. And by now you might still be wondering how a creature as enormous is nourished by feeds as minute?

The answer is simple: marine phytoplankton is superfood – not just to sea animals, but also to humans.

Marine Phytoplankton: One of the Most Complete Superfood in the World

Phytoplankton also goes with the name “micro algae.” Biologists describe them as one-celled plants where all other life forms on the planet have sprung. No matter how small, they remain to be big. After all, they supply 90% of the Earth’s oxygen.

These vegetation of the ocean are known for their property that can transform sunlight into inorganic minerals. At the same time, it can turn carbon dioxide into highly valuable superfood for marine creatures and humans. Phytoplankton are considered super because they contain high levels and minerals at par with those from 200 sea vegetables combined!

Each cell is brimming with essential fatty acids, amino acids, and antioxidants that can keep your health at its best. Given the dense concentration of these nutrients, small amount of phytoplankton can go a long way.

Remember that marine phytoplankton do their wonders on the human body because they contain all the minerals found in the blood. They can therefore restore the ideal level of these nutrients, thereby making your body good as new.

Gains from Marine Phytoplankton

Few health supplements sold from high-end stores. Based from the claims of both nutritionists and individuals who tested and tried the products, marine phytoplankton can bring forth the following perks:

Sharper Minds

An appropriate dosage of the phytoplankton is known to improve brain activity. It is also found to lengthen attention span and sharpen the memory. This can be accounted to the ability of phytoplankyon to deliver vital energy down to the core of DNA and Mitochondria. They can therefore penetrate barriers and feed energy to master glands located within the brain.

Shield Against Diseases

Taking the phytoplankton give the immune system a boost. Should an illness is weighing down the body, a dose of these algae can quicken the recovery process. This is because phytoplankton are natural antiviral and antibacterial. They work well in repairing cell damages and giving protection from radiation.

At the same time, they alleviate symptoms of allergy and asthma.

Better Blood Circulation

Marine phytoplankton contain chlorophyll. This very substance that gives its green hue is responsible in improving blood circulation and strengthening cardiovascular muscles. Chlorophyll increases oxygen update, thereby fueling all the muscles for optimum performance and endurance.

How to Take Marine Phytoplankton

Obviously, the algae cannot be eaten in its raw form.

One can enjoy the wide breath of benefits by buying processed phytoplankton in health stores. The products are often frozen dried and sold in powdered form. This can be mixed with fruit juices and smoothies to mask their strong taste.

Some manufacturers also have available capsules and tablets that are taken as supplements. Be sure to consult your doctor before taking these.

Golden Glory: Inca Berries as Superfood

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They’re gold, succulent, nutritious and super. Not many people know about them, but they are super. Inca berries can bring a full range of health benefits that can make the body just as golden.

Inca berries are also coined as cape gooseberry and physalis is abundant in high altitude tropical regions in South America. These exotic are small and round with glossy orange-yellow skin. The berries are surrounded by thin, paper-like leaves.

After the fruits are harvested and dried, they turn into an orange-bronze hue. They practically look like golden raisins. But their taste is far more tantalizing. Raw Inca berries are juicy and sweet, with a bit of tangy after taste. When they are dried, the sweetness is a bit more subtle.

These fruits are so tasty that they are often described as flavor-packed morsels. Chocolate-covered Inca berries are the subject of fondness among foodies with sweet tooth. Laid-back healthy savvy, alternatively enjoy them dried for snacks. Others would prefer the berries sweet and eaten with other varieties of fruits in a salad bowl.

No matter what style, Inca berries endow their patrons with perks that can keep diseases at bay.

Energy Throughout the Day

 Inca berries are superfoods. If you get the impression that eating the fruits can give you super powers, then you are not necessarily wrong. Many individuals claim that they are instantly filled with energy after snacking on the berries – both dried and raw.

Several studies conducted also show that Inca berries can improve brain functions while increasing the amount of oxygen distributed in the body. The high levels of vitamin B12 contained in each berry can be accounted for the strong support for cellular metabolism. This means that cells are more able to synthesize substances and turn them into energy.

Healthy Digestion

Remember that among the many reasons why Inca berries are super is their multifold of dietary fibers not present in other kinds of fruits. In fact, they have twice the amount of fibers than dates, prunes, apricots and blueberries.

Regularly eating the berries can then prevent indigestion and other illnesses down in the gut. They can improve bowel movements and flush out toxins that have accumulated in the colon. Because of this property, Inca berry are also seen as potential cure for digestion problems while serving as a shield against colon cancer.

The pectin of the berries are also taken for lowering LDL cholesterol levels and chelating heavy metals.

Natural Medicine for Illnesses

Over the centuries, the Inca berries are used by orthodox doctors in treating serious health conditions like cancer, leukemia, and hepatitis. These are among the deadliest illnesses in the world. Who knew a tiny golden berry is all it takes to cure them?

On top of these, Inca berries are also used to treat malaria, asthma, dermatitis and rheumatism. Up to date, they retained their identity as natural medicine.

At the same time, the berries are taken as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-viral, anti-heptoxic, anti-carcinogenic and anti-histamine. Thanks, mostly, to the richness of the fruits in bioflavonoids and Vitamins A, C, B1, B2, B6 and B12.