Are superfoods still super?
If there’s one thing the past couple of years have taught us it’s that staying healthy is the single most important thing we can do for ourselves and our families. After all, if you haven’t got your health, what have you got? It’s this more proactive approach to everyday health that’s led to the mainstreaming of the wellness movement, a philosophy popular pre-lockdowns and mask mandates but now approaching stratospheric heights when it comes to attention level. The idea of ‘wellness’ has become an accepted, if not expected, way to live a modern life. And why not? If it means pursuing activities, choices or lifestyles that lead to a better state of health, count us in.
A key component of wellness lies in what we eat, specifically whether we’re eating the most nutritionally-rich foods we can. The answer for many of us is probably ‘no’ because if we’re being honest, old habits die hard. The good news is that there is a way to access nutrient dense foods with a name to go with it – superfoods. From antioxidant-rich berries to fibre filled greens, protein packed nuts to energy supporting spirulina, superfoods contain unusually high amounts of specific nutrients either missing in many of our dietary staples not available with the same potency.
But are superfoods as relevant today as they were? With the last two years causing an explosion in new dietary habits, some a little more responsible than others, it’s easy to think there might now be better options. The fact is, it’s hard to discount superfoods at this time. That’s because an important aspect of many superfoods is their ability to support the immune system, often the result of extraordinarily high antioxidant levels. So while the concept of superfoods is not new, its place at the table is definitely safe. They’ve also changed with the times. Many superfood converts favour powdered formula blends they can conveniently add to everyday dishes, smoothies or snacks. So, if you really want to say you’re doing all you can for your slice of wellness, you’ll need to grab a daily dose of superfoods.
Here are just a few superfood trends, now available in New Zealand from Nature’s Way.
Everyone wants to be a fungi.
Packed with B vitamins and antioxidants, shiitake and enoki mushrooms are the superstars of the fungi world and are now making their way into superfood blends across the globe. Not only do they support the immune system but also blood sugar levels while helping protect cells from oxidative stress. Nature’s Way now do a Vegan Wellness Broth packed with functional mushrooms and nutritive herbs to support a healthy mind, body and mood. Find out more here.
Ready for a beetroot burst?
This ruby-coloured root vegetable is a favourite among athletes for its incredible nitrate content which supports the flow of nutrients and oxygen-rich blood around the body. Rich in antioxidants, potassium, magnesium and a host of vitamins, beetroot also supports digestion and stamina. Best of all, beetroot is naturally sweet! To add beetroot to your daily smoothie, juice or baking, grab a Nature’s Way Organic Beetroot Powder. Find out more here.
A surge of spirulina!
One of the most nutrient-dense foods on earth, this blue/green algae is as brilliant as its colour. Spirulina is a fantastic fusion of B vitamins, calcium, niacin, potassium, magnesium, and iron. Just the stuff to support energy levels, mental clarity and the immune system! It’s also a great source of complete essential amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. And with Nature’s Way 100% pure organic Spirulina Powder, you can get your spirulina by the spoonful. Find out more here.
