Clearly with modern supplements this is not the case. I discovered that my Milk Thistle capsules had Magnesium stearate , Titanium dioxide , Microcrystalline cellulose and then the Milk Thistle. This situation was not just unique to me as i discovered looking through the ingredients of commonly available supplements.
Excipients and fillers are added to pharmaceuticals (drugs) and (supplements) to help with the manufacturing and stabilization of these products. They are the “glue” which bind and stabilize a supplement. Historically they have been considered inert and without any medicinal benefit or influence. This assumption has allowed their use to be wide-spread with little regard for their actual influence. Excipients, for example have been found to initiate or participate in chemical and physical interactions which can compromise the efficacy of a medication or supplement. Excipients and fillers can influence the efficacy and quality of supplement and drugs and are best avoided when choosing supplements.
Magnesium stearate: Is a widely used excipient in Supplement and pharmaceutical products. Some studies have shown that it suppresses immune function. The absorbability of products is also questionable when magnesium stearate has been added to a formula. As a powerful binder of active constituents the rate of dissolution of a substance is altered, yet studies have shown that bioavailability remains the same. Some manufacturers believe that this is true and will only use magnesium stearate in the formulas as filler and never as coating due to the question of dissolution. Magnesium stearate is naturally produced when soap and hard water mix creating the unwanted “soap scum” ring around bathtubs.
Titanium dioxide: Is a common whitening agent used in some supplements and pharmaceutical agents. It has shown to be a potential carcinogen to humans. Rats studies have shown that inhalation of ultrafine titanium dioxide can cause respiratory tract cancer.
Parabens: Are a group of widely used preservative and anti-microbial agent in personal care products and supplements. There is growing concern that parabens can cause hormone disruptions and they have been found in high concentrations in breast cancer tumours. Parabens can be found in supplements as methylparabens, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben. Choose supplements that avoid this potentially harmful substance.
Lactose: A sugar found in milk can cause severe gastro-intestinal upset in individuals sensitive to milk products. In none sensitive individual’s lactose is generally not a great concern.
Maldodextrin: Is a polysaccharide that is rapidly converted to glucose in the blood stream. Maltodextrin can come from a variety of startch products. Wheat and corn are the most common. Although not generally a concern in supplements, the source of maltodextrin should be noted. If from a wheat source, gluten will be removed, but should still be avoided in individuals with celiac disease to avoid any potential adverse reaction.
MSG: or Monosodium glutamate is a common flavouring agent in supplements. It is a known neurotoxic agent and should be strictly avoided when choosing supplements. It has also been shown to cross the placenta and induce neuronal damage in developing mice.[7]MSG is a food additive used to enhance the flavour of food. Reactions to MSG may occur and may include: tingling and weakness around the face, temple, upper back, neck, and arms, with flushing of the skin and warmth. Some people experience heart palpitations, intense thirst, anxiety, nausea, and vomiting.
Talc: Is a known carcinogenic. Studies have shown that it increases the risk of endometrial cancer in peri-menopausal women when used topically in the peri-anal area. Inhalant or intravenous talc exposure increases the risk of pulmonary toxicity. Intravenous talc can lead to various degrees of granulomatous formation, compromised pulmonary function or death. The use of talc should be strictly avoided in supplements, oral, inhaled and topical.
Microcrystalline cellulose: Is a bulking agent used in supplements to fill capsules when the medicinal agents are too small. It is ideal filler as it is naturally occurring and derived primarily from wood pulp. It is glucose units bound together by a beta 1-4 linkage which creates cellulose a fibre indigestible to humans. It enters and leaves the digestive tract unchanged and is chemically inert.
Gelatin: Is derived from collagen in animal’s skin and bones. It is a gelling agent used in supplements to help coat the outside of capsules to make them easier to swallow. Gelatin is commonly found in various desserts and gummy candies. A vegan alternative to a gelatin capsule is hypromellose.
Gellan gum: Is commonly used as a food additive, it is used in most soy drinks to help keep soy products in suspension. It is used as a thickener and stabilizer in supplements. A study examined the dietary effects of large quantities of gellan gum and found that it seemed to affect transit time by either increasing or decreasing time in a few subjects. Serum cholesterol levels were decreased by an average of 12% in males and 13% in females. No adverse physiological effects were seen in the subjects.
Tartrazine: A yellow colouring agent used in some supplements and pharmaceuticals has been shown to cause adverse reactions in certain individuals. It is well known to cause asthma and urticaria in sensitive individuals and has been shown to cause behavioral changes such as irritability, restlessness, and sleep disturbance in children. The use of any food colouring additive should be strictly avoided when choosing supplements.
Allura Red: A red colouring agent used as a food additive has been linked to both behavioural and physical toxicity. When fed to rats in animal studies, rats displayed significantly reduced reproductive success, weight, brain weight, survival and impaired female vaginal patency development. Behaviourally, the rats had significantly decreased running wheel activity when compared to control.
Indigotine: A blue food colouring agent has been linked to asthma in one study. A case report outlined increased cough, dyspnea, wheezing and nasal congestion in a subject immediately following exposure to indigotine at work.
Brilliant Blue FCF and Indigotine: Two blue food colouring agents have been linked to various adverse effects. Animal studies looked at the adverse effects of brilliant blue and indigotine given to rats over a two year span. The study found that growth inhibition occurred in the male animals fed indigotine and subcutaneous injections of 30 mg of brilliant blue or 20 mg of indigotine into rats weekly for two years produced fibrosarcomas at the site of injection.
Combination of all food colourings: Was tested to determine if adverse effects exist. A study looked at a combination of several food colouring additives and a common preservative, sodium benzoate. This studied tested children aged 3 and 8-9 to determine if food colouring additives can increase hyperactivity in children. The study found that food colouring additives or sodium benzoate (or both) increased hyperactive in both age groups studied. The use of food colouring should be avoided in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products.
Artificial Flavours: Dr. Ben Feingold an allergist proposed 30 years ago that artificial flavours, colors and salicylates can be the cause of hyperactivity in children. A diet free of artificial colors, flavours and salicylates reduced hyperactivity symptoms and behavioural disturbances in 30 to 50% of children.
If you dislike dieting, like commonly most of us, and do not have enough time to go to the gym every other day, a few carefully chosen foods could help move your scale in a healthy direction and you won't have to break an ankle.
These lists of superfoods can help you lose weight by boosting your metabolism to burn fat and by reducing cravings for fatty foods. Also, these will keep your energy level high which causes fat to burn too.
Green tea has many health benefits claimed rather than coffee or other drinks. It helps in sustaining the body weight to its exactness by burning body fat, which results in condensed waist edge and weight loss, as explained to by a 2009 study published in the International Journal of Obesity.
Green tea holds epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), an antioxidant that burns calories throughout the day. For ideal health benefits and weight management, drink two cups of freshly made tea or thick green tea every day.
Blueberry, a powerful figure responsive superfood, should also be contained within your diet. These small berries hold a powerful antioxidant, which defuse free radicals. They also include ample amounts of soluble fibre and water that creates a feeling of fullness so that you will stay content for a longer period between meals while mending digestion.
Flaxseeds are one of the great and fast to lose weight, thanks to their healthy fat and fibre content. Flaxseeds covers a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s) that help in weight loss. A 2013 study printed in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports that including an enough omega-3s in diet helps prevent obesity.
Almond is alternative rich superfood that helps you slim down. Fibre, protein, and monounsaturated fat fillings of almonds help in losing weight. The fibre in almonds make you feel full and nurtured so that you avoid unhealthy foods. The vitamin B and zinc in almonds also help break sugar cravings.
A 2006 study was published in the Journal of Medicinal Food rumours that eating half of a fresh grapefruit before meals can result in momentous weight loss.
As a grapefruit contains 90% water, it can fill you up; so, then you eat less. It is even packed with immune-boosting vitamins, and is also low in calories. Try eating half a grapefruit before breakfast and the other half before lunch to improve your body's fat-burning achievement.
An oatmeal in breakfast is great alternative diet for those who are trying to lose weight or keeping a healthy body. Oatmeal contains beta glucan, a kind of soluble fibre that helps lessen abnormal levels of fat in the blood. It makes greater feelings of fullness and a lessening in hunger.
7. Oranges
Orange is an unbelievable superfood for weight loss. High fibre and vitamin C contents of the fruit encourage weight loss. Also, the fibre gratified of orange makes people less possible to gain weight.
This low-calorie and a fat-free fruit is also a good source of nutrients required for a healthy body. Start your day with an orange and drink a glass of fresh orange juice daily. Though, avoiding packaged orange juice as it holds sweeteners and preservatives.
8. Salmon
Cold-water fish like salmon also enhance your body's metabolism to helps burn fat faster. Salmon is packed with good fats, which are favourable to weight loss. Also, the good quality protein in salmon also supports weight loss.
Protein needs more energy from the body to process, thus the fat-burning aids. In addition, lean springs of protein like salmon help you feel full for longer. Salmon also contains vitamin D, which is poor in many people.
9. Avocados
Although avocados are high in fat, they are an outstanding addition to any weight loss program. The monounsaturated fats in avocados help content hunger and make you feel. Plus, avocados are rich in L-carnitine, an amino acid used in metabolizing fat.
10. Dark Chocolate
Many chocolates make you gain weight. But dark chocolate in contrast can help you lose weight. Dark chocolate with a high amount of cocoa is rich in antioxidants that help you slim down. It even recovers your metabolism to burn more fat. Hence, you need to enjoy it in self-control. If you are trying to lose weight, eat an ounce of dark chocolate three times a week, with the structure of cocoa between 70 and 85%
Source: itechpost.com
]]>The global superfood movement attracts an army of followers worldwide and Kazakhstan is no exception. In this sense, the Lotus Organics is a unique enterprise as this is one of two dozen companies in the world that manufacture patented biotechnological production strains based on algae bacteria.
Located in the Ontustik industrial zone in Shymkent, the plant is unique for the Kazakh market because it is engaged in the production of organic products based on the unique properties of spirulina, chlorella and a number of useful microalgae.
The company aims not only to contribute to the development of the domestic biotech sector but also compete with European producers.
The range of raw materials and final products of microalgae biotechnology and beneficial microorganisms is extremely wide. It covers almost all major economic sectors, including components for nanotechnology.
Industrial production of microalgae biomass and beneficial microorganisms and products of their biomass is highly profitable. The main consumers of such industries are pharmaceuticals, food industry, perfumery and the agriculture industry.
“We began testing and validation of the first products in June this year. We were working with the agro-industrial complex producing premixes for the animal farming group. However, the algae we have grown can be used for medical purposes. After consulting with foreign experts, we have come to the decision that it will be important to produce organic products for people,” Lotus Organics head Azamat Ibdullayev told the Astana Times.
The company sent two products – spirulina and fulvic acid for testing to the Switzerland.
Spirulina includes all the substances necessary for an organism including beta-carotene, chlorophyll, chromium, vitamin B 12 and iron, Ibdullayev said. Fulvic acid has long beenpopular in the western countries. It facilitates the absorption of minerals, increases metabolism and has antioxidant properties, and most importantly, removes toxins from body.
“We invited foreign experts to our studies. A leading specialist of our company is Biological Sciences Doctor Farkhad Omarov who collaborates with a team of 15 people, including chemists, biologists and engineers. We do not see the need for a large staff since our production is automated,” he said.
The project is entirely funded by private investors.
“Today, there are about two dozen companies in the world that produce patented biotechnological production strains based on algae bacteria and we are one of them. Our know-how technology allows keeping the useful components. Algae lose up to 40 percent of useful trace elements by drying. And we managed to avoid it. Many factors, such as sunny weather, altitude and water should be taken into account when you grow the bacteria. Our factory is located in the South Kazakhstan region. It is the most convenient location in terms of climatic conditions and sophisticated agrochemical and biochemical systems,” he said.
Source: astanatimes.com/
]]>The superfoods set to take 2017 by storm have been revealed! This year sees favourites including avocado oil and macadamia nuts topping the list, as well as unexpected new entries including insects and bone broth. With many of us looking for easy, healthy swaps to make in our diets, there are great alternatives on offer including black bean pasta or buckwheat noodles for delicious and nutritional alternatives to the classics.
Musclefood.com have unveiled 17 superfoods tipped to be huge in 2017 – see the full list below to discover what you should be adding to your shopping list!
Red Algae: Nicknamed 'bacon-flavoured seaweed', this brilliant superfood allows people to eat healthily without having to compromise on taste.
Kakadu Plum (also known as Gubinge): These tart and tangy fruits are a natural source rich with vitamin C and contain approximately 100 times more of the antioxidant than an orange.
Offal: Packed with vitamins, amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids, offal could be a superfood champion. Offal such as beef and pork hearts, liver, brain, kidney and other organs are also full of iron and essential antioxidants, not to mention they're budget-friendly: ask your butcher and you’ll go home with a bag full of offal and still have change from a fiver.
Turmeric: Turmeric is an increasingly popular household spice and looks set to explode in 2017 thanks to its healthy compound curcumin.
Goji Berries: Click here to buy 5Greens Organic Goji Berry Powder Goji berries, or 'wolfberries' have been steadily growing in popularity in recent years. It contains a multitude of vitamins and minerals, such as iron and vitamins A, C and B2.
Bone Broth: You may have seen this in supermarkets and been put off by the name, but this broth actually has incredible flavours and contains essential minerals and protein.
Coconut Sugar: This offers more vitamins and minerals than white sugar, as well as added iron and zinc.
Insects: In 2016, insects rapidly became an important and sustainable food source. Just 100g of crickets contain 214 per cent more protein than 100g of chicken breast meat.
Pea Protein: Pea protein looks set to become 2017’s alternative to whey protein. As well as being both dairy and gluten-free, it is 100 per cent vegan friendly.
Black Bean Pasta: 2015 had courgetti, 2016 had soybean fettuccine, now 2017 looks set to be the year of the black bean pasta craze. Unlike traditional spaghetti, black bean pasta is high in protein and fibre.
Raw Cacao Nibs: Click here to buy 5Greens Organic Raw Cacao Nibs Raw cacao nibs are great source of iron, fibre and magnesium, making them a great ingredient for desserts or just as a healthy snack.
Goat Meat: Goat meat typically contains more iron and less fat than beef, pork and lamb, and is already consumed across the globe.
Tilapia: This fish is associated with a number of health benefits including boosting metabolism, keeping bones strong, preventing arthritis and reducing signs of ageing.
Maca Powder:: Click here to buy 5Greens Organic Raw Maca Powder This foodie favourite boasts large amounts vitamins B, C, and E as well as calcium, zinc and iron, just to name a few.
Buckwheat noodles: Buckwheat noodles don't actually contain any wheat and are the ideal replacement for any noodle-based dish.
Avocado Oil: Packed with nutrients such as vitamin E that does wonders for your skin, avocado oil looks set to keep avocados high on people's shopping lists this year.
Macadamia Nuts: Macadamia nuts have a sweet taste and are a terrific source of energy. They also contain large amounts of vitamin A and iron, as well as zinc and calcium.
Source musclefood.com
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GOJI berries, the new Instagram “superfood,” have been a dietary supplement in Chinese traditional medicine since long before Internet crazes dictated food trends.
Adding the berries to breakfasts or beverages has become the fashionable way to eat healthy. Goji berry believers around the world sprinkle them onto morning oatmeal, enjoy them in lunch salads, throw a handful into protein shakes or just snack on the dried fruit.
Latching on to the trend, food producers now use the berries in juices, energy bars and baked goods. They are also marketed in skin creams that claim to slow aging.
Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are biologically in the Solanaceae family, which also includes plants like potato, eggplant, chili pepper and even tobacco.
They are native to China, mostly grown in the northwestern autonomous regions of Ningxia Hui and Xinjiang Uygur.
Directly translated as gou qi, the name of the berries first appeared in China in the poetry classic “Book of Songs” more than 2,000 years ago. Both species of goji berry — Lycium barbarum and Lycium chinense — are native to China.
“Superfood” trends have appeared as part of a general public interest in more healthy eating. Young people and fitness enthusiasts are especially ardent devotees. Though glowing claims of healthy properties usually accompany “superfoods,” proven nutritional benefits often fall short of the hype.
The bright red goji berry looks something like a raisin when dried. For a long time, it was considered an old-fashioned food among younger generations.
It has a chewy texture similar to dried grapes and is very sweet, with a hint of earthiness and bitter aftertaste. In China, the berries are rarely eaten as a solo snack.
“Goji is a traditional Chinese medicinal tonic,” explained Luo Jiaqi, an associate chief internist of traditional Chinese medicine at Shanghai Putuo District Central Hospital. “It contains high amounts of amino acids and anti-aging elements like carotene and vitamins.”
Dried goji berries are added to soups, stews and congee in very small amounts. The berries rehydrate and soften when cooked.
Goji wine is a popular traditional liquor made by either infusing the dried berries in white spirits or brewing them in yellow or white wines. The latter beverages have a higher alcoholic content than other Chinese fruit wines — at 24 percent to 55 percent — and are believed to be very nourishing.
“Goji is nutritious, but it’s a little warm in properties from a traditional medicine perspective, so many people pair the berry with chrysanthemum for balance,” said Luo.
China produces the majority of goji berries sold commercially worldwide. Close to half of the nation’s yield come from Ningxia, where industrial chains operate from cultivation to marketing. The fruits are usually harvested in August. Fresh goji berries cost around 70 yuan (US$10) per half-kilo online.
The leaf of the goji plant, which is also edible, can be added to pork liver, meat soups, scrambled eggs or even tea.
Goji berries should be consumed in small amounts, Luo said. He suggested no more than 10-15 grams of dried berries a day.
“In traditional Chinese medicine, goji berries can nourish the liver and kidneys, improve eyesight and aid lungs, but as a nutritious supplement, it’s not suitable for people with spleen problems or colds and fever,” explained Luo. “Goji berries also contain sugar, so diabetic patients should be very careful.”
The goji berry is not toxic per se, but eating too much over long periods of time could worsen other conditions a body might be experiencing. As Luo noted, traditional medicine doctors often say that “ginseng not only cures but can also kill.”
Goji is not particularly new in Western culture. The UK Food Standards Agency removed the berry from its “Novel Foods” list in 2007. North Americans started cultivating goji about a decade ago. The dried berries are added to yogurt, muesli, smoothies and cakes. There are also goji jam and relish recipes.
In addition to its use in foods, goji is also added to skincare products marketed for their anti-aging benefits. Serbian brand Hendel’s Garden has a goji cream it claims “softens the skin, smooths wrinkles and lifts facial contours, protecting the skin from aging and environmental damage.” A 50-milliliter tube of goji cream sells for US$53.45 on Amazon.
One reviewer wrote last year, “Personally, I wouldn’t buy it again. They say that you can see a difference in 15 days. I’ve been using it for two months, and I don’t see any difference.”
Look at the color. The fresh goji berry has subtle sheen, while older stock loses its luster. However, it’s important to remember that the brightest berries are not necessarily the best. Some suppliers artificially color the whole fruit. Examine the pedicles, which should be yellow or white instead of red.
The texture of the goji berry should be chewy but never crunchy.
The majority of better quality Ningxia goji berries won’t sink in water.
Make sure to scan packaging information to see if preservatives have been added. Naturally dried goji berries can be stored in cool, dark place for up to a year.
Source: www.shanghaidaily.com
If you are a pregnant woman, then obviously, you would be concerned about your own well-being, along with your unborn's, right? Did you know that there are a few superfoods that can keep you exceptionally healthy during pregnancy?
As most of us may know by now, pregnancy is a phase of a woman's life in which she experiences tremendous changes, both physically and emotionally.
Motherhood is no small feat; the to-be mother has to get prepared for a lifetime's worth of responsibilities of her soon-to-be-born child.
Imagine this, the minute a woman gives birth to a child, her priorities change and now, her child becomes her first priority!
Many woman even take breaks from their studies, career, etc., in order to give the much needed care and attention to their young children.
So, it is extremely important for a woman to stay healthy during her pregnancy, so that she can remain strong, both physically and mentally, and also avoid certain pregnancy-related health complications.
Here is a list of superfoods that must be consumed during pregnancy; have a look!
Dried apricots can be a regular part of a pregnant woman's diet, because they are nutritious and tasty!
Banana is a fruit that most of us love and they can benefit the pregnant woman greatly!
Adding chia seeds to your diet during pregnancy is the best way to stay healthy both mentally and physically!
Make hemp a part of your regular diet during pregnancy and rest assured that your baby will grow well!
Be it rajma or black-eyed peas, most varieties of beans can prove to be extremely beneficial for a pregnant woman's health!
Eggs are one of the best breakfast foods that a pregnant woman can have, in order to remain healthy!
Filled with a whole range of vitamins and minerals, broccoli is a wholesome superfood that every pregnant woman must consume!
www.boldsky.com/]]>
Lupins are known as pretty, blue-violet or pink blooming garden flowers, but in the bean-shaped seeds of the plant puts a lot of power. but Enjoyable is only the harvest of specially bred sweet lupins, whose seeds contain no toxins and no bitterness.
Lupins are related to soybeans, but they have significantly more protein content than their famous sibling fruit. And something else makes the new Superfood particularly unique. The lupine must not be fertilized in order for them to grow their ranges of nitrogen from the air. A farming without chemical pollutants? This plant finally makes it possible.
Lupins can be varied and creatively cooked. The seeds can be eaten pure, but often they are processed into flour. It can then be part of the most delicious dishes, conjured as burger patties, pizza, pancakes, biscuits or cereal-topping for the Acai Bowl - with hardly any carbohydrates! The flavor is neutral with slightly nutty notes.
And also for workouts, suck the power seeds as the protein concentrate Lopino is recovered, the superpower in smoothies and protein shakes and can be found in vegan cheese and spreads.
Lupine products have long been the secret among vegans and vegetarians, because 40 percent protein content, these legumes are one of the most important vegetable protein sources and a perfect egg or meat substitute. But also for all normal eaters this property is important because proteins help build muscle and are the basis for every low-carb diet .
The seeds also score high with essential amino acids. The so-called lysine for example, supports the structure of collagen, which in turn promotes firm skin and healthy hair. Vitamin E, magnesium, iron, calcium and phosphorus supplement the positive qualities of lupines.
The good news for allergy sufferers - lupines are gluten-free and also ok for people with soy intolerance. While the seeds are among the legumes, but unlike lentils, beans & Co. there is no unpleasant flatulence and therefore they are considered particularly easy on the stomach.
Lupins are suitable for those who want a few kilos less, because their content is made for a successful diet 100 grams of seeds contain 253 calories, 42 grams of protein, 6 grams of fat and 5 grams of carbohydrates
Source: www.elle.de
Want to take your diet to the next level? If so, it’s a smart move to take a look at some of the top superfoods that you can be including.
Superfoods are as the name suggests, foods that contain nearly ‘super’ powers. They are so loaded with nutrients and offer so many health benefits, they stand out from the rest.
Let me share with you today my top six superfood choices that you can use to get your diet started off on track.
Rich in soluble fiber and a very hearty source of complex carbohydrates, oats are one food that won’t quit. They’ll keep you feeling energized for hours ahead and provided you aren’t adding anything to them, they contain absolutely no sugar.
Eating oatmeal each day is associated with lower cholesterol levels, so this is a fantastic heart-health boosting food.
Need a way to liven up your regular plain oats? Try adding a dash of cinnamon or some fresh berries on top. Berries are another extremely healthy food, so this will really boost the overall nutritional content of the dish as well.
Next on the list is broccoli. Broccoli is very high in antioxidants and can act as a detoxifier to the body, helping you eliminate potentially harmful waste materials.
Broccoli is also very high in dietary fiber, so can help stabilize blood glucose levels, bring down cholesterol, and help you ward off diabetes.
It should be a big part of everyone’s diet plan.
Moving on, don’t overlook kale. Rated as one of the top nutrient dense foods you can consume, kale is loaded with vitamins and minerals. You’ll get a hearty dose of vitamin K (which is critical for blood clotting), vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, as well as iron and magnesium.
While kale generally tastes best cooked, it can also be used raw in a salad as well. It’s another vegetable that’s so low in calories, it’s a must-add to any diet plan.
Grapefruits are an often overlooked fruit, but one that you’ll want to start adding to your diet more often. Unlike oranges, the fruit that most people choose, grapefruit are relatively low in sugar content, thus they keep your blood glucose levels better stabilized.
If you are hoping to ward off diabetes, grapefruits are a perfect choice. In addition to that, grapefruits are also loaded with vitamin C, which is important for strengthening your immune system and warding off oxidative damage.
Want a protein source that will lower your cholesterol rather than raise it? Try beans. This complex carbohydrate offers a nice balance of protein and carbs and in addition to that, also provides a good dose of dietary fiber as well.
Beans will work wonders to lower your cholesterol level, so are a perfect heart-healthy food. In addition to that, they can also assist with the lowering of inflammation taking place in your body as well.
Finally, don’t overlook the avocado. Rich in healthy fats, this food will keep blood glucose levels stable as well while also helping lower your overall hunger. This is due to the healthy fat and fiber combnation it has to offer.
Avocado is also very rich in Vitamin E, which is a key antioxidant that will help keep your immune system strong while also improving the health of your skin, hair, and nails.
So don’t overlook these six foods. Are they in your daily diet? If not, it’s time to make them a part of your menu.
Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
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In Australia, a project to search for new 'superfoods' has received $10 million in funding. The Queen Garnet superplum and SuperGold sweet corn are two recent developments in the quest to find foods with extra health benefits. The plum received national attention more than a year ago as it has blood pressure lowering properties. The SuperGold sweet corn is able to protect against macular degeneration, a disease the leads to vision loss.
Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation's Dr Tim O'Hare, who developed the new variety, said consumers were having trouble spotting which variety gave the biggest benefit.
"Previous products that had elevated health properties were difficult for consumers to differentiate in the supermarket, and their health benefits were long-term and difficult to measure," Dr O'Hare said in a release.
"The consumer had to have faith in something they could not see, and trust in the product's long-term benefits."
The project, titled Naturally Nutritious, will be led by Dr O'Hare and will focus on identifying fruit, vegetables and nuts with a potential for health benefits.
Once identified the researchers will develop the variety through various techniques to promote the element that is beneficial to the consumer.
Potential candidates for the superfood category could include strawberries that could improve the growth of unborn babies, macadamias that could improve cardiovascular health and a capsicum that could improve eyesight.
Another part of the project will be clinical trials on humans to measure how much of a benefit the foods are.
Source: brisbanetimes.com.au
]]>The superfood trend is growing, and Search Laboratory has identified the most popular ones in the U.S. by online search volume. The foods, including avocados, kale and tumeric, were searched nearly 250,000 times per month on average.
The majority of the searches were clustered along the west coast and the northeast, in sync with population trends for singles and younger adults.
Portland was the top U.S. superfood search capital, with Seattle, San Diego and San Francisco close behind.
Rich in vitamins and minerals, superfoods have become popular in areas that have strong lifestyle appeal or income-advancing potential for young adults.
Most of the top ten superfoods, according to Google trend reports, are more likely to be found in homes rather than restaurants. This is partly because young adults, who are more adventurous eaters than their elders, are abandoning restaurants in droves – eating in has become cheaper with falling food prices.
As avocado, kale and turmeric — the top three (in order) among the top ten searched-for superfoods — have become more popular, more manufacturers and restaurants have incorporated them in their formulas. The popularity of Indian and Asian dishes have helped tumeric's rise, just as interest in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean meals have for bulgur, a form of cracked wheat, and kefir, a fermented milk drink.
Increasing numbers of vegetarians and vegans choose almond and coconut milk as well as flax – a common substitute for egg – as dairy alternatives, giving those three superfoods search count boosts. Blueberries and cauliflower, the remaining two of the top ten, are also perennial favorites because of their nutritional value, availability and versatility.
Source: http://www.fooddive.com/
]]>R&D has undoubtedly been essential to Peru successfully developing its agro-industrial products and now it is on the road to becoming the main supplier of superfoods in the world as it targets doubling its agro-exports to $10bn in the next five years. However, challenges remain, as Ulises Quevedo explains, whose company Grupo Rocío has used its human resources and technology to maximize its poultry, dairy, farming and agriculture activities for almost 50 years.
How has the agricultural sector contributed to the growth and dynamism of the Peruvian economy?
Nowadays the agricultural sector—especially export agriculture—is the second largest currency generator in the country, even ahead of fishery, which is a very important activity for the country. Also, the agro-industry is the main generator of labour. If you look at all agro-exporting companies, many of them are among the main creators of jobs in the country. It’s a balance of not only capital resources, but also employment for the most part, which is more importantly formal employment.
The agro-industry has been formalizing jobs for the past 20 years. What I mean with formalizing is that it has been complying with all labor rights and has brought the agricultural worker into the formal economy of the country.
Without a doubt it has become a driving force for the economy. What started 20 or 30 years ago as craziness in the desert, nowadays is one of the country’s main economic drivers and a provider of stability.
The new government has shown a firm commitment in doubling agro-exports in the next five years and reaching $10 billion. Do you think this is a feasible goal?
I think it is. It may seem unlikely to double the agro-exports in the next five years but it is achievable. The agro-industry sector is mature enough. We’ve been developing for the past 30 years and there is enough human capital and knowledge to take a leap this big. However, you don’t need just the efforts of the private sector to take this leap. We need integration—one that’s closer than what we’ve had until now—with the government. Basically, infrastructure can limit this challenge. It’s hard for the private sector to develop the infrastructure. You can make alliances between the public and private sectors, which is one of the alternatives to explore, but you also need an active participation from the government, one that goes hand in hand with private companies and also with multinationals that share this vision for the country.
The lack of infrastructure is present in ports, airports, irrigation, and formalization of mostly small-scale farmers. It’s crucial to consolidate the associativity. There are two agro-industries in Peru: the agro-industry for export, which basically is located on the coast—this is an already consolidated agro-industry and it now complies with all international standards in sustainability, environment, fair trade, work and safety. Also, there’s the agro-industry that satisfies the domestic market, the small-scale rural farmer in the highlands, where much needs to be done. If we want to double agro-exports, we have to include this group of small-scale farmers into this dream, into this effort.
What have been the key success factors in the evolution of Grupo Rocío?
The human factor is crucial, without a doubt. It was crucial to have all the human resources we have now and also being able to bet on the team’s development in the long-term—I say betting on it long-term because when you come out of a crisis, of living under terrorism, almost like the civil war that we had, thinking long-term is really hard, thinking that better times would come. And here we are exploiting this investment now.
Besides these crucial aspects, I’d say that the success factor in the business has to do with research and development. Once again, when you’re in times of crisis, allocating resources for development is hard; it’s about sacrificing short-term liquidity that’s needed in times of crisis, for a better future. Now, for our three units, whether it is the poultry industry, agriculture or livestock, its main bastion for development is that: substantial investment in technology, in research and development, and always developing new products.
For example, the last successful effort we’ve made is in the growing of cranberries; it’s a product that used to be solely for cold climates and for regions above the tropics.
With the use of technology we’ve managed to adapt and create a model that didn’t exist before: growing cranberries in the desert. And also, the results are among the best ones in the world.
When we interviewed José Manuel Hernández, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, he said the future depended on innovation and development. Do you share this opinion?
It may sound a bit like a cliché because if you read and travel the world, everyone wants to talk about how important R&D are. But in the Peruvian case, if you start analyzing the successful cases—asparagus, mangoes, grapes, cranberries—every agro-industrial product, every single one without exception, has been made possible thanks to an investment in R&D.
Regarding the group’s plans for growth, you started with poultry farming, then agriculture, and livestock farming. In what sector do you have more faith in the medium term?
The poultry sector it’s already consolidated. Peru is one of the largest per capita consumers of chicken in the world; we are above 60kg per capita of chicken consumption. So going from 60kg to 70kg per capita is more difficult than going from being a country where you consume 10kg and then take it to 20kg. So, the possibilities of organic growth in the poultry sector are small. It grows at a rate of 3-5% annually.
In the agricultural sector it’s the opposite case. It’s a sector where we’ve found a market gap with potential of growth—it’s opposite to the Northern Hemisphere. There’s a lot to be done there, and it can grow aggressively according to the results that come along. There’s more and more interest in the world in eating healthy. In the United States, one of the main health issues is obesity and poor diet. There are many programs and efforts on improving the quality of the diet, and that’s where Peru is capitalizing on because many of the products we export are extremely healthy. Cranberries are one of the main antioxidants and they have many other benefits. And just like avocados or asparagus, they are good at combating cholesterol. So much so that the Peruvian agro-industry sector is positioning itself with a newly launched and registered brand called “superfoods from Peru”. Peru is on the road to becoming the main supplier of superfoods in the world. This is sort of the vision we have. Regarding growth, this allows the agricultural sector to grow from 20% to 30% annually.
Regarding the farming sector, we began as a dairy company but now we define ourselves as a livestock company because the farming sector now has two components: milk production and the development of genetic lines specially designed for the needs of each country. In the dairy subject, we have Gloria as our only client. Therefore, we’ve developed the first embryo transfer laboratory in the country. There has probably been an embryo transfer in some university with no issues, but this is the first one at a commercial level.
What is your assessment of the FTA with the United States, and how important is a market like the United States for a group like yours?
It’s crucial and I’d go as far as saying that it’s not just important for us, but also for the entire sector and the entire world. The American market is today the largest market in the world. It’s impossible not having it in our markets. Before the FTA, 80% of our market was the European Community; we were focused on the European market. Since the development of the FTA we’ve diversified it to 50-50, and from this year, the United States should account for 60% of our exports.
You can’t renounce a market that accounts for 60% of exports, in this case, our company can’t.
Because, even though FTAs establish the rules of the game in trade, they’re not enough for agricultural products; there has to be development and a phytosanitary protocol in the countries, accompanied with the Minister of Agriculture through SENASA in the opening up of new markets with these protocols.
The United States is also an important partner. Where do you think American investors should look in Peru?
I think there are many opportunities for foreign investment and, there’s a great need for the Peruvian businessperson and the state to have this support. The risk levels in the country have been reduced tremendously and we already have access to very cheap external financing. What’s left to do in order to reap all the benefits is find foreign capital.
Source: theworldfolio.com
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It’s hard to think back to a time when there weren’t superfoods. There have always been health foods, to be sure, but only recently have so many ingredients become super. And for the items added to those magical lists, frenzied popularity seems to follow a select few. Kale is still the superfood poster child, it seems, and while we may still be looking for the ingredient with the power to dethrone the leafy green, 2016 did have its fair share of contenders. From chlorophyll to banana flour and kefir, here are the year’s trendiest health foods, and the ones that made a splash powerful enough to carry them into 2017.
Chlorophyll binds to carcinogens in the body, preventing them from being circulated and reaching susceptible tissues, like those of the joints and heart. It has also been shown to cleanse the liver by interfering with the metabolism of chemicals and heavy metals. But it’s the plant extract’s unexpectedly mild taste and eye-catching deep green hue that encouraged us to incorporate it into everything from yogurt bowls to water to cold-pressed juice this year. Available for purchase in ready-made bottles, this nutrient-dense extract is responsible for giving plants their green color. While Jennifer Lawrence and Nicole Richie already swear by it, we expect chlorophyll to only increase in popularity in 2017.
Traditionally used to treat poisonings and drug overdoses, 2016 saw the dark, chalky substance seep into everything from lemonade to hangover pills. It works because it traps toxins and chemicals in the body, allowing them to be flushed out instead of reabsorbed. However, while there is a growing trend of taking the supplement to prevent or treat the after-effects of a long night of drinking, the sponge-like substance can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients, supplements, and prescription medications, potentially outweighing the benefits of regular activated charcoal use.
Maple water was introduced this year as a lower-sugar alternative to the ever-popular coconut water, but the often-pricey drink contains fewer electrolytes and far less flavor than everyone’s favorite, coconut water. The beverage’s presence of abscisic acid (ABA) helps move sugar out of the bloodstream—where it otherwise contributes to weight gain—and can also stimulate immune function. But since coconut water also contains ABA, it’s unlikely that maple water will stick any more in 2017 than it did this year.
2016 saw to-go bone broth packets—similar to to-go Crystal Light—roll out due to an increasingly high bone broth demand. The elixir is beloved for being rich in collagen, glutamine, glycine, and proline, all of which help with ligament and muscle function and repair. The collagen in bone broth also reduces intestinal inflammation, leading to a healthier gut. Stars like Salma Hayek and Gwyneth Paltrow have already confessed to being loyal bone broth devotees, and there’s no telling who else will jump on board as this trend continues to grow in 2017.
Research continues to mount that a diet containing nuts can help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke. And almond butter—with its lack of carbs and abundance of protein, fiber, and healthy fat—is the perfect filling snack. As Justin’s to-go almond butter packets helped make the healthy and delicious snack more portable this year, Kylie Jenner endorsed them as an easy mid-day snack, making it the ultimate healthy accessory.
Banana Flour
Banana flour is extremely high in resistant starch, a prebiotic that promotes the growth of good bacteria in the gut and assists with everything from immunity to weight loss. Although banana flour hasn’t yet made it big in most superfood circles, there’s nowhere to go but up for this gluten-free prebiotic flour that’s high in potassium and can be used in baked goods as well as smoothies.
Acai bowls
Arguably the most Internet-famous superfood of 2016, acai bowls have started to feel like the crying–Jordan meme of health foods: The food, like the meme, is several years old. But defying every viral law, the two only seem to get stronger and more popular over time. Acai berries contain more antioxidants than other commonly eaten berries and are high in fiber and heart-healthy fats. Specifically, the antioxidant anthocyanin, which is abundant in acai berries, is linked to lowering oxidative stress and inflammation and promoting brain health. These eye-catching bowls aren’t going anywhere anytime soon, especially if Instagram has anything to do with it.
Kefir
As previously reported on Vogue, kefir is a probiotic, meaning it contains plenty of “good” bacteria and yeasts that are both nourishing to the digestive system and necessary for gut health. Since kefir is good for your intestines, it decreases pesky ailments like bloating. Many cultures have been drinking the fermented dairy beverage long before we in the West decided to call it a superfood, and if we know what’s good for us, we’ll continue to drink it well into 2017 and beyond.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent to treat conditions like jaundice, flatulence, hemorrhage, toothaches, and chest pain for millennia, making it a true superfood star. Although the taste can be bitter for some, it’s endless list of health-enhancing benefits—including being linked to lower rates of breast, prostate, lung and colon cancer—keep us searching for new ways to include it in our diets in 2017.
LaCroix
It’s not often that a massively trendy food originates in Middle America, but don’t be fooled by Wisconsin’s very own LaCroix, pronounced La Croy. The flavored seltzer water has been a favorite amongst Midwestern mothers since the 1990s, but no one expected the company to take over the sparkling water market the way it has. In 2014, writers in Los Angeles started guzzling LaCroix, in part due to the fact that the sugar-free seltzer was easy to find, portable, and delicious. Parks and Recreations writer Joe Mande—then a vocal supporter of the sparkling water company—even went so far as to beg the brand to make him their official spokesperson. Although LaCroix declined and issued Mande a cease-and-desist letter, the seltzer’s viral popularity among young people was only beginning. As more influential writers, comedians and artists began touting cans of LaCroix, 2016 saw T-shirts printed with the words “LaCroixs Over Boys“ written on them. New York artist Chloe Wise erected a painting in homage to the token colorful can; Williamsburg Wholefoods assembled nothing short of a LaCroix shrine; and tickets to a class on painting your own LaCroix can sold out in seconds. This year the water transcends its original position as a healthy alternative to soda, becoming a cultural symbol greater than itself: In a digital age where ironic detachment is king, liking LaCroix has become synonymous with showing the world that you’re in touch with trends while also defending yourself from the embarrassment of being earnest. This is the rare power that makes LaCroix 2016’s ultimate superfood. Not even kale could do this much for its troops.
Source: vogue.com
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The fifth annual "What's Trending in Nutrition" national food trend survey has been released after polling over 1,700 registered dietitians (RDs) across the country on next year's big trends in food and eating.
This year overall, results reveal a decline in consumers' interest in dieting. Instead, many are choosing clean and mindful eating as their path to healthier living. The survey is conducted by Pollock Communications and leading nutrition trade magazine, Today's Dietitian.
"Year-to-year, our unprecedented connection with Registered Dietitians – the real authorities on all matters of food and nutrition – has enabled us to document the movement towards mindful eating," said Mara Honicker, publisher of Today's Dietitian. "This annual increase in attention to eating with purpose and care is also reflected in the top 10 superfood trends. There has been a consistent focus on foods that are nutrient-rich – like seeds, avocados and nuts – along with those that have health-promoting qualities, like fermented foods and green tea."
Dietitians are attributing the latest shift in consumer food perception to the growing trend of "mindful eating," a slower and more thoughtful approach to eating. Based on the survey, 49 percent of RDs say that consumers will choose mindful eating over dieting. In addition, 59 percent say consumers will choose to "eat clean," by looking to consume foods that are less processed and more whole foods such as veggies, fruits, ancient grains and green tea, as well as plant-based proteins like nuts and seeds.
For the last five years, the What's Trending in Nutrition survey has been a leader in identifying and tracking the next significant trends in food for the upcoming year. In terms of what foods are still topping the coveted Top 10 Superfoods list, the survey shows that nuts and seeds still hold top spots, fermented foods take fourth place, and kale has lost some footing and continues to move down the list in comparison to previous years.
1 Seeds, like chia and hemp
2 Avocado
3. Nuts, like almonds and walnuts
4. Fermented foods like yogurt
5 Ancient grains
6. Kale
8. Coconut products
9. Exotic fruits
10. Salmon
Compared to 2016, dietitians report that consumers will be less concerned with the food trends of previous years, such as:
- Foods that are GMO-free, sustainable or gluten-free.
- GMO-free and sustainable foods have experienced on average a 20 percent decrease in terms of what concerns consumers. Dietitians attribute this decline to food label transparency and more food companies changing their ingredient deck. In contrast, consumers will be looking for more low-sodium and sugar-free options in 2017.
The survey also captures RDs' top tips for how to eat healthier and make smarter purchasing decisions next year. Their best advice for consumers includes:
- Eating more servings of fruits and vegetables.
- Choosing high-quality, nutrient-rich foods in all food groups.
- Limiting consumption of highly processed foods.
- And instead of focusing on diets, RDs recommend choosing foods based on a wholesome ingredient list and high level of quality proteins and carbs.
In addition, each year, Choose MyPlate, the United States Department of Agriculture's guidelines for healthy eating (myplate.gov), continues to play an important role in nutrition education, with 80% of dietitians utilizing MyPlate as a tool to help consumers eat right-up from 76% last year.
Technology has undoubtedly made shopping for healthier food and losing weight easier, and dietitians have noticed by unearthing these insights:
- 84% of RDs believe that technology is providing new options to help consumers make better food choices and/or eat healthier.
- New technologies are helping to shape the future of nutrition with 67% of RDs recommending apps, such as MyFitnessPal and the Fitbit App to plan and track food activity.
- Pre-portioned meal delivery services such as Blue Apron and Fresh Direct have also skyrocketed – 45% of consumers are now turning to these and similar healthy meal or weight loss menu delivery programs in order to eat healthier.
Not All Shopping Carts Are Created Equal – Barriers to Purchasing Healthy Foods
Although consumer awareness of healthy food has increased and mindful eating is on the rise in 2017, issues of access and cost continue to prevent certain populations from being able to eat and purchase healthy food.
- For low-income consumers, RDs say that cost, above all other factors including physical health, is the largest barrier when making food purchasing decisions. This often makes healthy eating options out of reach for low income families.
- RDs recommend increasing affordability and availability of nutritious food in low-income areas to help reduce barriers to healthy eating.
Source: www.smobserved.com
]]>Leading a healthy and holistic lifestyle is what each of us strive everyday. Especially, when it comes to kids, mothers take extra care in keeping then hale and hearty. It is quite essential for moms to check what their children are consuming vis-a-vis healthy eating. While it is also important for kids to go and explore the world, maintaining a good level of immunity becomes imperative at this age. According to The Heath Site, there some certain superfoods which can help in boosting your child's immunity—and yes it's easily available too.
So, check out these TOP 5 superfoods which can work wonders in boosting your kid's immunity powers:
Not every kid likes to munch on these nutties. But make sure you tell them how important it is for keeping well. Including walnuts, pistachios, raisins, dates and the like in their daily diet will pump up the immunity levels in the body. Also, you have to be a supermom in feeding your kids this superfood daily. Try feeding them dried fruit nuts, if available.
Now, this one can come easy. Most of the kids love to have eggs in breakfast. Eggs are a good source of getting proteins, and unlike a common presumption of not having the yolk—kids can actually have it as it has several essential vitamins and minerals. You can ven try out different varieties in preparing egg recipes—boiled eggs, omelette, scrambled, bhurji and the like.
Yes, we all know how important it is to consume green leafy veggies in our daily diet. The kids might find it boring, but it is imperative for them to have it on regular basis. Green veggies are immunity boosting foods, so you must add spinach or fenugreek in your meals which has zinc and folic acid and vital vitamins in good quantity.
Yoghurt has good bacteria which helps in boosting immunity. It fights the bad bacteria in the stomach and keeps related infections at bay. Having curd is a must for everyone and not just kids. You can try out different recipes with yoghurt to make it more interesting for your kids.
Eating fruits should be enjoyed rather than taken as a mandatory rule. There are plenty of options when it comes to relishing fruits. You should not only encourage your kids to eat apples, bananas and oranges but also introduce them to melons, pomegranate, peaches, berries and other coloured fruits.
Source: zeenews.india.com
]]>Legend has it that kombucha was first served in 220 BCE for the Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi. Because the Chinese had a hankering for longevity-elixirs, people referred to this fermented tea as the “remedy for immortality” or the “tea of immortality.”
Thanks to trade routes into India and Russia, eventually kombucha resurfaced in Japan. Apparently, a Japanese visitor to Kargasok (Russia) found this fermented tea and was amazed by the well-being it seemed to provide. Today, this longevity-elixir — once used habitually by Samurai — is widely used again in Japan. Kombucha has also found its way to Europe and now North America.
Kombucha, produced by fermenting tea with a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast (or a “SCOBY”), was regularly consumed to remedy inflammatory ailments such as arthritis and even cancer. Today, kombucha has become a go-to health beverage. Devotees use the beverage as an at-home remedy for acne, fatigue, hypertension, headaches and constipation.
Once fermented, kombucha becomes lightly-carbonated and contains vinegar, B vitamins, enzymes, probiotics and a high concentration of acid. People believe it can:
So, if you’re looking for an antioxidant-rich beverage — once enjoyed by emperors — that kills harmful bacteria and also fights several diseases, then this drink ancient drink for you!
Once hailed as an Aztec superfood in 3500 BCE, chia seeds have once again reclaimed their glory in modern times. Aside from ancient warriors eating these seeds whole, people also used them in medicine. They also ground them into flour, mixed them as an ingredient in drinks and pressed them for oil. Chia seeds were also useful in that they could be stored for relatively long periods of time.
In addition to these practical uses, they were thought to have been used as a sacrifice in religious ceremonies. In Mayan, chia means strength, which is why ancient civilizations believed these seeds held superpowers.
Chia seeds don’t actually have a very strong flavour, so people can easily add them to a wide range of foods. They also form into a digestible gel-like substance when mixed with liquid, making them an ideal thickener for soups, smoothies and puddings. Vegans can even use chia in gel form as a substitution for eggs in baked goods.
But what makes these seeds one of the healthiest foods on the planet is that they deliver a whole lot of nutrients with very few calories. In fact, just one ounce of chia seeds contains:
Research published in the Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society suggests that chia seeds are also high in antioxidants. These anti oxidants are what protect the sensitive fats in the seeds from going rancid. Chia seeds are also high in fibre — 40 percent fibre by weight — and low on carbs, making them one of the best sources of fibre in the world. They also contain an impressive amount of protein, which is shown to reduce appetite and prevent night-time binging. Additionally, chia seeds are a “whole grain” food and are usually grown organically. They’re also non-GMO and naturally free of gluten.
There’s been a rise in the popularity of ancient grains in past years, due largely to heightened food sensitivities and our desire to become healthier. Ancient grains have been around for about 75,000 years. And we call grains — such as quinoa — “ancient” because they remain largely unchanged over the last several hundred years. Unlike modern wheat, which has been crossbred, most ancient grains are nutritional powerhouses. They’re loaded with calcium, fibre and an amino acid, which helps your body burn fat (amaranth being the best source). Here are the top ancient grains you should consider adding to your diet:
SpeltThis nutty-flavoured grain contains more nutrients than wheat, including more protein, folate, magnesium and selenium. Spelt is also a high source of fibre, with half a cup containing four grams. You can use spelt flour in a number of dishes, with the grain found in a variety of products, including cereals, bread, pasta and crackers. But keep in mind, spelt does contain gluten and is therefore not suitable for anyone who has a gluten intolerance.
This “pseudo-grain” is often referred to as a vegetable. It’s gluten-free and has an impressive nutritional profile. It’s also high in fibre and has been shown to be beneficial in lowering cholesterol, according to research published in the International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition. Research suggests that amaranth is also high in protein, lysine, magnesium, calcium and squalene (an anti-cancer compound).
Pronounced “keen-wah,” this ancient grain is actually a seed and not a grain at all. Because of its high protein content, quinoa has gained enormous popularity. In fact, it’s actually a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids. And since quinoa is gluten-free it is a perfect for those who are sensitive to gluten or have Celiac disease.
Algae may not sound appetizing, but it is. Coastal populations across the globe have historically eaten edible seaweeds. The Japanese have been consuming seaweed for over 2,000 years. Today, it’s a staple of Asian diets, with one of the biggest benefits being the iodine content. We need iodine for healthy thyroid function. And due to salt-reduced diets, many of us aren’t getting sufficient amounts of iodine.
Due to the influx of Asian cuisine, seafood is fast becoming a superfood for Western culture as well. Research suggests that consuming seaweed regularly may protect against a wide range of modern diseases. Researchers have shown seaweed to have a preservative effect on foods, particularly with regards to Gram-negative bacteria. Raw or sun-dried seaweed health benefits include:
Don’t turn your nose up at this thyroid-boosting superfood. Apart from satisfying your salty cravings, it goes well with sushi, tofu, miso soup, salads, stir-fries, vegetable stews and greens.
This traditional fermented cabbage dish is fast becoming a probiotic staple in modern Western cuisine. Kimchi is a fermented ethnic food of Korea. It consists of vegetables such as Chinese cabbage fermented with lactic acid bacteria.
Kimchi is a vegetable probiotic food that contributes health benefits similarly to that of yogurt (as a dairy probiotic food). This fibre-packed cruciferous veggie dish is loaded with antioxidant-rich spices and, most importantly, gut-friendly probiotics. A study published by the Department of Food Science and Nutrition concludes that kimchi promotes:
Kimchi is both tasty and highly functional. People typically serve it with steamed rice at every Korean meal. And, if you’re adventurous, you can also prepare it yourself!
There you have it, five ancient superfoods that you need to include in your modern day diet. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they also kick butt when it comes nutrition.
Source: www.thealternativedaily.com
]]>Forget kale, chia seeds and quinoa. A whole host of new superfoods is cropping up for 2017. Rich in vital nutrients, superfoods are considered to be literally the superman of the food world!
Superfood is a term used to describe foods with supposed health benefits. Not in common use by dietitians and nutrition scientists, superfoods have been dubbed as a marketing gimmick by some.
Some of the superfoods are considered to be very good in terms of health benefits and it may even help some medical conditions.
Here are a list of superfoods for a healthy 2017:
Eat your greens! The phrase is famous for a healthy lifestyle, but this year, it is all about making it a little colourful by adding purple to your palate and plate. The purple colour in the food indicates a high density of nutrients and antioxidants. Many purple variants of popular food is available like cauliflower, black rice, purple asparagus, elderberries and purple sweet potatoes.
Adaptogens, as the name suggests, are able to adapt their function, specific to what our body needs. It is known to reduce stress. Liquorice and ginseng are a couple of popular adaptogens with an affinity for the adrenals and the endocrine glands.
A juicy bite of watermelon is a common experience but we spit out its seeds. According to the latest snacking trend, once the watermelon seeds have been sprouted and shelled, they can be roasted. This will boost its nutrition and taste. The seeds are packed with protein, vitamin B, Magnesium and monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
This is a root which is derived from the radish family. Common in its powdered form, it is rich in vitamins and helps in improving stamina, mood and general well-being.
It is widely used in air purification systems as well ass to light up barbecues. Activated charcoal has help you get a purer skin and whiter teeth. It absorbs the standing tannins found in drinks like coffee and red wine.
Probiotic Water
Probiotics are actually live bacteria and yeast that are useful for human body. They are commonly found in yoghurts and supplements. Probiotic water is now being introduced as a form of water with the added health benefits of probiotics. It is a great source of potassium, vitamin E, iron and unsaturated fatty acids.
Tiger Nuts
The strangely named tiger nuts are small, wrinkled root vegetables. Originating from North Africa, they are a very healthy snack low in calories and fat. They can also be made into a creamy drink and are a great source of potassium, vitamin E, iron and unsaturated fatty acids.
Goat Meat
Goat meat is another great healthy option for 2017. Commonly eaten in North Africa and Asian countries, it is a low fat and higher protein meat.
Source: indiatoday.intoday.in/
We live in the era of super foods and with so many new and exciting products being introduced to us at once, it’s hard to know what is best for us. Super food trends seem to come in waves, and the next best thing be gone tomorrow. Fiona Tuck Nutritional Medicine Expert, shares her views on superfood trends and what is really beneficial for our bodies. Here is her predictions for the major trends in 2017.
We have all been going loco for coco but now avocado oil is destined to be the next big player in the healthy oil arena. Avocado oil contains high levels of health promoting oleic acid, carotenoids, lutein, vitamin E and phytosterols. This wonder oil also boasts high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) helping to reduce damaging levels of inflammation in the body thought to help protect against heart disease, dementia and stroke. The added bonus of avocado oil is that not only does it taste delicious when used as a salad dressing it can also be used for cooking due to its high smoke point plus it can be used topically as a nutrient rich skin smoothing oil.
Move over probiotics, prebiotics are the latest thing. Probiotics have been plugged as a cure all for the majority of health conditions however we first need prebiotics to provide the right environment for the good gut bacteria (probiotics) to be able to thrive. Inulin, a soluble fibre, is a gut prebiotic and boasts an array of wonderful health benefits. Inulin is a fructan which is indigestible by our body, but the good bacteria in our gut flora flourishes in its presence. As our body cannot digest the fructans, inulin has little or no impact on blood sugar or insulin making it ideal for those with blood sugar imbalances. Health benefits include enhanced immune system function, heart health and improved absorption of minerals in the body. Inulin helps satiate the appetite aiding weight loss and aids digestion. Inulin is most often sourced from chicory and Jerusalem artichokes.
Forget lemon detox drinks and diets, charcoal is the new black! Activated charcoal is regular charcoal that has been treated with gas to create to multiple tiny internal spaces within the charcoal. These tiny spaces within the activated charcoal “trap” toxins and chemicals almost like a sponge.
Activated charcoal is used in medicine primarily to treat poisonings such as alcohol poisoning but is also used in water filters to purify water, and in tablet or powder form to help reduce flatulence, and alleviate symptoms of traveller’s tummy bugs and dysentery. 2017 is set to see activated charcoal becoming a huge trend and we will see it being added to a variety of health foods, smoothies, juices and skincare for its detoxifying benefits. Beware however as activated charcoal is so good at trapping chemicals it does this with the majority of substances it comes into contact with not just poisons. This means that the current detox trend of adding activated charcoal to juices, smoothies or food negates the nutrient content of the food!
Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) is a native Peruvian plant. The plant contains nutrient rich edible star shaped seeds rich in essential fatty acids sure to push the humble almond off its super food perch. Sacha inchi is also known as the Inca peanut, the seeds are often eaten whole like peanuts or the nutrients extracted and used as a superfood powder as a rich source of natural vitamin E, vitamin A, protein and alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. Sacha Inchi is thought to be the richest plant source of alpha linolenic acid available. What a star studded nutrient profile!
Source: http://rescu.com.au/
So you’ve mastered your traditional olive oils and dabbled in the kitchen with coconut oil but now it’s time for a new oil to join the rotation. Known for its creamy deliciousness in salads, dips and smoothies, avocado oil is packed with skin-loving nutrients such as carotenoids, lutein and vitamin E that leaves the skin glowing. The wonder oil has high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids, which reduces damaging levels of inflammation in the body and helps protect against heart disease, dementia and stroke. Similar to olive oil, the added bonus of avocado oil is that it can also be used for cooking due to its high smoke point plus it can be applied topically as daily moisturiser for soft, supple skin.
Probiotics are live microorganisms that when taken can help improve gut health, which is essential for overall health and vitality. But, for probiotics to actually have an effect, we need to create the right environment for the good gut bacteria to thrive. This is where inulin prebiotics come in. Inulin is a fructan, which is indigestible by our body, but the good bacteria in our gut flora flourishes in its presence and makes it stick to the bowel wall. Not only does it support probiotics, but inulin also helps to improve absorption of minerals, and can also help satiate the appetite to aid in weight loss. You can buy it in powder form or find it in foods like chicory and Jerusalem artichokes.
Since ancient times, activated charcoal has been used to remove parasites and bacteria from the body, and 2017 will see it become the new superfood to add to juices and even skincare. Acting like a trap, activated charcoal helps to rid toxins and chemicals within the body, by catching and eliminating them out of the system. But beware, the black substance is so good at trapping chemicals that consuming too much of it can also remove the nutrient contents of foods. It’s also not ideal for anyone with malabsorption gut issues, like IBS and Crohn’s Disease, so be careful with this superfood. An activated charcoal tip: It’s best to be taken 30 minutes before consuming any food so it only targets those unwanted toxins.
Say goodbye to soaking your almonds overnight, because the sacha inchi nut is an easily-digestible nut that is rich in essential fatty acids, sure to push the humble almond off its superfood perch. The seeds are rich in protein, omega 9 and vitamin E and A and can be eaten whole or in the form of a superfood powder or oil.
We are definitely not talking about the sugar-laden, artificially coloured jelly — instead, we’re on about the super-healthy wellness jelly that is making a comeback in a variety of forms! From bone broth-based dessert jellies, healthy gut-healing gummies to gelatin infused smoothies and juices, this grass-fed jelly is being used in health foods and drinks for its gut healing, skin-boosting, nail strengthening properties. Don’t be surprised if gelatin shots are your new go-to superfood in 2017.
While superfoods are a great way to get healthy, it would be edifying to find out the food miles associated with them. The ecology is, after all, as important as the food trends you want to show off to your pals.
`Source: punemirror.indiatimes.com
]]>It’s that time of year again when we collectively resolve to drop those stubborn 10 pounds, quit smoking and eat healthy. If you want to get ahead on your health-related New Year’s resolutions, take notes from market research group Mintel’s list of some of the trendiest superfoods of 2016.
It’s widely known that turmeric is packed full of health properties like anti-inflammatory benefits. This year, the spice became a superfood ingredient added to foods like flavored almonds, chocolate milk and sports drinks, and was also touted as an aid for recovery following physical activity.
A popular beauty product ingredient, the leaves of the moringa plant are chock-full of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals which are touted as anti-aging ingredients. This year, the plant crossed over into the food world, notably in shakes and smoothies, where it was billed as a beauty food ingredient.
Ancient grains like quinoa, amaranth, millet and teff became a popular food staple this year, making their way into both pasta and cereal.
Pulses got a major PR boost after the UN declared 2016 the International Year of the Pulse. Like ancient grains, pulses such as chickpeas, navy beans and lentils will continue to be vaunted in 2017 for being low-fat and high-protein, as well as their high fiber content. Expect lentil chips to become an alternative to kale chips, which have long been a popular healthy alternative to potato chips.
This year, nutrient-dense seeds like sunflower, sesame, hemp and pumpkin seeds were blended to boost their superfood strength, and added to foods like energy bars and soups, claiming to do everything from fight fatigue and help with metabolism.
Source: www.freemalaysiatoday.com
]]>How to make chocolates healthier and nutrition-rich? The Mysuru-based Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) has found an answer, thanks to chia and quinoa.
The premier food technology laboratory has developed chocobars that are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids and proteins. Its trial to integrate the “superfoods” into the chocobar recipes had become successful and the commercial launch was expected soon.
The Central Arecanut and Cocoa Marketing and Processing Co-operative Limited or CAMPCO has supported the CFTRI for the large-scale trials of the product, which will be formally announced in New Delhi on November 24.
Protein-enriched chocobar made from puffed quinoa and Omega-3 enriched chocobar made from crispy chia seeds (black and white chocolates) will be launched at CSIR’s Platinum Jubilee Techno Fest.
Besides adding to the nutritive value, the ingredients also add to the taste of the chocobars, making it sought after by all age groups, especially children and youth, according to CFTRI.
“CAMPCO, which has availed our chocobar technology for commercial production, is expected to launch the products in the market soon. Our idea is to integrate superfoods into chocolates for indirect blend of nutrition into foods,” said CFTRI Director Ram Rajashekaran.
Speaking to The Hindu, the CFTRI director maintained that addition of “superfood” grains in products like chocolates had not been tried since chia and quinoa are new to the country.
Chia is a plant of Mexican and South American origin and known for its nutraceutical value. Seeds contain about 30 to 35 per cent of oil, which is the richest source of Omega-3 fatty acids, according to CFTRI. Claiming that Chia seed incorporation in chocobars was “a first of its kind in the globe”, the CFTRI director said the product can help in the regular consumption of Omega 3 fatty acids by children thereby improving their cognitive skills, while quinoa incorporation can promote protein consumption.
Healthy and nutritious chocolates are a new concept with high market potential, said Dr. Rajashekaran, adding that CFTRI will get a royalty from CAMPCO from the sale of chocobars. Products from “superfoods” are the CFTRI’s efforts towards promoting two farmer societies – Raitha Mitra and CAMPCO, an FPO.
Source: thehindu.com
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Foodie commentators are picking that watermelon will slip into the superfood craze slot that coconut has held for so long this summer.
It's not the fruit itself that is getting all the attention, though it's a perfectly decent low calorie treat.
Its the juice and seeds which are getting called superfoods by some people - especially those selling it.
In part you can blame Beyonce. She's invested money in a watermelon juice business called WTRMLN WTR and in a press release said it was because it was the future of "clean, natural hydration".
This juice is taking on the coconut water market with claims it's packed with electrolytes and L-Citrulline (an amino acid that reduces muscle soreness and boosts performance).
But Sydney dietitian Dr Joanna McMillan says says as far as the juice goes she thinks it is just a fad. When it comes to needing hydration she says water still does it best.
Watermelon's black seeds, those things you spit out, are also becoming prized. Overseas, the internal kernal is roasted and sold as a snack.
Dieticians say that like any other seed they have good fats and fibre. But does that make it a superfood?
source: http://www.stuff.co.nz/
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Peru's Foreign Trade and Tourism Ministry (Mincetur) hopes to get European Union’s support to facilitate access of Peruvian superfoods to the bloc, by proposing liberalization on the entry of new products like Andean grains and blueberries.
“Peruvian superfoods' exports have plenty of space to conquer the Swedish and European market in general. We plan to propose that the European Union liberalizes the still restricted access for new Peruvian products,” Mincetur’s head Eduardo Ferreyros said.
The range of Peruvian superfoods includes Andean grains such as maca, quinoa, kiwicha, tarwi and cañihua, as well as blueberries.
The Minister noted trade opportunities that both countries might take advantage of during the meeting “Sweden does business in Peru.”
Peruvian exports to Sweden amounted to US$115 million in 2015, while imports totalled US$222 million.
Peru’s main exports to Sweden include copper, coffee, asparagus, grapes, tangelos oranges and wood.
Likewise, the European country comprises about 0.3% of total foreign direct investment (FDI) flows into Peru, totaling US$66.6 million between 1980 and 2015.