We have had our kale and coconut oil in heavy doses this year and with the New Year just about here, it’s time to find out what new super foods we need to be eating.  Senior clinical dietitian Nathalie Djabrayan lists her picks…

Matcha Green Tea 

One cup of Matcha green tea is equal to the nutritional and antioxidant values of 10 cups of brewed green tea. And that’s not all. 1 teaspoon outweighs the antioxidant properties by 6.2 times that of goji berries, 7 times that of dark chocolate,  17 times that of wild blueberries,  and 60.5 times that of spinach along with essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, iron, zinc, and magnesium for only 3 calories per 1 gram.

And that’s not all! A 2003 study confirmed that drinking 1 cup of Matcha green tea has 137 times the amount of anti-cancer properties than conventional cup of green tea and it also lowers LDL or “bad” cholesterol. It also improves brain function and energy as it contains up to 5 times more L-theanine than conventional green tea, resulting in better concentration, clarity of mind, improves memory and mood as well as lowers blood pressure.

Moringa Oleifera   

This is full nutrition in one spoon. Usually found as loose tea or concentrated powder form, this is the perfect source of protein for vegans and vegetarians and those with iron deficiency.  Moringa Oleifera – Nature’s “Miracle Tree” contains over 92 nutritional values at the cost of only 3 calories per 1 gram and includes: a wide range of vitamins and minerals from iron to potassium and magnesium. It also contains vitamins A, D, B , and K and guess what? It’s caffeine free!

Spirulina 

Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that is  highly digestible, protects the immune system, reduces cholesterol, protects the brain and detoxifies the liver and kidneys with its B-vitamins especially B12,D,K,E and is packed with calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, iron, and antioxidants essential for vegetarians and vegans.

Its super food status means it increases antioxidant protection, curbs appetite, and promotes weight loss. It also supports healthy cardiovascular function, improves the digestion process and gastrointestinal health, creates beneficial flora in the digestive tract, overall giving it an anti-microbial effect.

Spirulina and Matcha can be sprinkled on almost any sweet or savory dish, salad, smoothie, and dessert for a mega boost.

Avocado Oil 

When it comes to cooking, we are overwhelmed with a wide range of cooking oils and cooking oil sprays….But the question is are we making the right choice? Avocado oil might could just be the ideal choice, as it has numerous benefits for our health and beauty and better yet, it tastes amazing!

Avocado oil has uniquely healthy properties of which have been confirmed through scientific research and is a good source of vitamin E and good fats. It’s derived from pressed avocado fruit and not the seed. Cold-pressed organic avocado oil is the best quality, though it will be a little more expensive. It is heat resistant, making it a good oil alternative for cooking.