The Wanderlust & I: How to: supercharge your food

The term 'superfood powders' was alien to me a few months ago. Now, I just can't get enough of them. Whilst several people suggest that 'superfoods' are merely a marketing term and don't really pack the nutritional punch they claim to, the products below are foods that I genuinely feel have supercharged my diet and leave me feeling more and more energized throughout the day.

I'm a firm believer that counting nutrients and not calories is the healthiest and most efficient way to maintain a nutritious, balanced diet. This is why superfood powders appeal to me so much. They're nutrient dense, energizing and an amazing way to cram in extra nourishment without a number in sight.

SPIRULINA

Okay, so this is a slightly odd one. First and foremost, Spirulina has amazing colour. This richly pigmented blue/green micro-algae is renowned for its abundance of protein, calcium, chlorophyll and a whole host of minerals and B vitamins too. Admittedly, Spirulina does have a rather acquired taste (it is an algae after all). However, when mixed into smoothies or juices, the algae taste isn't noticeable and you've got yourself one nutrient dense beverage.

why eat spirulina?

65% protein and amino acid content (ideal for vegans as an amazing natural source of protein)
Higher calcium content than milk
Anti-inflammatory
Immune boosting
Great source of iron (an ideal supplement for those with anemia too)

USE sparingly IN:

Juices, smoothies and dips

Flaxseed

Flaxseed, otherwise known as Linseed, is a versatile, nutrient packed seed that you can eat with almost anything. Plus, it doesn't have the same wacky taste that Spirulina does.

why eat flaxseed?

Great source of Omega-3, iron, protein, calcium and magnesium
Incorporating flaxseed into your daily diet can decrease cholesterol and triglyceride levels by up to 65%.
Rich in soluble fibre meaning that the body can easily digest it.
High in antioxidants
Blood sugar stabiliser (good for lessening the effects of diabetes)

USE (1 tbsp) IN:

Porridge
Smoothies
Nice-cream
Salads
Baking (add 2 tbsp into cake/biscuit mixture)

Cacao

Cacao is chocolate in its rawest form and is thought to be the most antioxidant-rich food in the world. It's also my all-time favourite superfood AND the perfect excuse to eat chocolate for breakfast. Whilst it tastes similar to its more refined self, cacao is more nutrient dense and has no additional artificial components.

why eat cacao?

Contains over 300 important compounds including magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, protein and healthy fats.
As Cacao is comprised of the chemicals phenylethylamine (PEA) and anandamide (an endorphin), it can act as a mood booster and increase focus and concentration.
Blocks oxidation of LDL cholesterol (essentially improving circulation and minimizing risk of heart disease)
The perfect excuse to eat chocolate all day, every day.

USE (1-2 tbsp) IN:

Porridge
Smoothies
Nice-cream
A more nutritious hot chocolate alternative
Ingredient for wholesome, chocolatey treats
Baking

chia seeds

Chia seeds grow from Salvia Hispanica, a plant that forms part of the Mint family. 'Chia', being the ancient Mayan term for 'strength', explains why these seeds are renowned for the sustainable energy they provide.

why eat chia seeds?

Despite being tiny, these seeds are full of nutrients and are a great, natural way to maintain energy levels.
Rich in protein, fibre and antioxidants
Improve metabolic health
High in Omega-3 and calcium

USE (1 tbsp) IN:

Porridge
Chia pudding
Smoothies
Nice-cream
Baking

This is just a small selection of the multitude of superfood powders out there. I'm so ready to try some more - Maca, Chlorella and Acai powder are next on my list! Are there any superfood powders you'd like to try?