4 Superfoods You Should Eat Daily

4 Superfoods You Should Eat Daily Image via theawesomegreen.com According to Health.com, though there is no medical definition, superfoods are nutrient powerhouses that pack large doses of antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. Eating them may reduce the risk of chronic disease, and prolong life, and people who eat more of them are proven to be healthier and thinner than those who dont. Incorporating superfoods into your daily diet is a lot simpler than you think and is actually a tasty way to get some of the most vital vitamins and minerals that your body requires to function at its optimal potential. Most of these items can be found at your local grocer, farmer’s market, or you can even order them online. You don’t have to pick up all of them, but grab one or two the next time you’re shopping for food, as they are a small investment with a big impact. Everyone’s superfood preferences may vary, and there are plenty that I did not include in this list, but adding any of these to your routine will only do your body good! 1. Cacao An often overlooked superfood, raw cacao is essentially chocolate in its purest form and is rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and lipids. It is also known for battling free radicals and aiding in depression and cardiovascular health. Image via Onegreenplanet.org Cacao can easily be incorporated into breakfast meals or healthy desserts. I like to blend cacao powder, almond butter, and coconut milk to my after workout smoothies or sprinkle cacao nibs on top of my oatmeal or yogurt. Cacao pairs deliciously with apples or bananas. Try your hand at cooking with cacao with this recipe for decadent vegan raw cacao truffles. 2. Chia Seeds Originally grown in Mexico, chia seeds are valued for their medicinal properties and nutritional value. Aztec warriors ate chia seeds to give them high energy and endurance. They said just one spoonful of chia could sustain them for 24 hours. Chia means “strength” in the Mayan language, and they were known as “runners food” because runners and warriors would use them as fuel while running long distances or during battle. Today, chia seeds have become one of the most popular superfoods due to the same reasons. The chia seed is  nutrient dense and packs a punch of energy boosting power. They aid in burning fat, increasing energy, and even to reduce signs of aging. Chia seeds pack a ton of antioxidants that help in replacing the nutrients lost when exercising. They’re high in essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese and copper. A unique property of the chia seed is that it can absorb up to 10 times its own weight in water. As a result, the seeds increase hydration and improve nutrient absorption of electrolytes, which helps to slow digestion, thus keeping you feeling fuller for longer. Chia seeds can be consumed raw and sprinkled on just about anything from salads to yogurts. For a sweet breakfast or snack full of vitamins and minerals try making this overnight chocolate chia seed pudding, which you can whip up before bed and take on the go the next day! 3. Maca Root Maca, grown in the mountains of Peru, is a root that belongs to the radish family and is most commonly available in powder form. Maca is rich in vitamin B, C, and E as well as calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, and amino acids. Maca root has been prized for generations as an energy enhancer and mood stabilizer. It’s nutritionally and powerfully complex with a plethora of health (and beauty) enhancing ingredients. Image via blissfulbasil.com When you first start using maca powder, it’s best to begin by taking smaller amounts and building up, starting with 1/2 teaspoon and eventually increasing to 1 tablespoon as an average daily dose, rotating a few days on and off. I rotate between coffee and maca smoothies when in need of a morning workout energy boost but you can utilize maca powder in many different foods. Be sure not to add maca to hot foods or beverages, as that will cause it to lose many of its nutritional benefits. Check out this link for five easy ways to utilize maca powder in food, such as in shakes or raw treats. 4. Goji Berries You might have heard of goji berries and not have given them much consideration, but their health benefits may cause you to give this tart berry a second thought. Also known as wolfberries, goji berries are sweet in taste and bright in color. Their history as a medicinal plant has roots in ancient China, where goji berries are still used to treat eye, liver, and kidney ailments. The fruit’s many nutritional claims have now made it popular in the United States. Though most often sold dried, goji berries also can be found and grown fresh. For a breakfast treat, try them in cereal, oatmeal, or yogurt. Try mixing goji berries with raw nuts and dark chocolate chips for homemade trail mix. You can also drink your goji in the the form of goji juice or tea. Goji berries also taste great cooked with lean pork or turkey, adding a savory sweetness to hearty dishes.