9 SUPERFOODS YOU PROBABLY AREN'T EATING ENOUGH OF

GUEST POST WRITTEN BY POLLY NOBLE
You can read the original post here

One of the things I hear most from people is that they get stuck eating the same thing over and over again and lack variety in their diets. This is where I think superfoods play a super important role in helping to increase your nutrtional intake without having to get fancy or dream up culinary creations just to get your fix of the good stuff.

So I thought I would tell you about the 9 superfoods that I personally don't think enough people are eating and will be incredibly beneficial in helping you grow big and strong like supergirl. (Because who doesn't want to be supergirl? She is awesome!).

1. CHIA SEEDS

Chia seeds are one of my fave foods. A complete protein containing loads of easily digestible protein that helps to cleanse internal organs, this food is for those that want to be a warrior. Check out my post on "7 Reasons to Love Chia"

2. SPIRULINA

Spirulina is a blue green algae that offers 60-70% vegetable protein, essential vitamins, phytonutrients, antioxidants, and is rich in iron, magnesium, calcium, vitamin B12 and trace minerals. Add to your favourite green smoothie. Wanna try John's Banana Smoothie?

3. HEMP SEEDS

Hemp seeds are a great source of Omega 3 fatty acids which are essential for brain function and healthy cell regeneration and they are a fantastic source of protein. Sprinkle on salads, add to smoothies or make hemp milk.

4. BEE POLLEN

Bee pollen is a little known food but packs a punch with its complete protein and amino acid profile containing 5 to 7 times the amino acids found in equal amounts to beef, milk, eggs and cheese. It helps to boost the immune system, alleviate allergies and it is great for depression, digestion, fertility, weight loss, boosting energy, cramps and anti-ageing.

5. KUKICHA TWIG TEA

Twig tea has been around for centuries. It is made with the stems, stalks and twigs of the tea plant. it's known as a peasant's drink in Japan but in the west we have started to praise the health benefits of tea for it's ability to promote longevity. It's especially known for it's ability to balance acidity in the body which can lead to disease and ill health down the line.

6. KALE

Kale is a knockout superfood for many reasons, it's super anti-inflammatory, it's packed with calcium, iron, fibre, EFA, and the all important chlorophyll. Check out 8 Reasons to Love Kale and my much-loved recipe for Kale Crisps. Cruciferous vegetables like brocolli, kale, cabbage, cauliflower, radish, collards and brussel sprouts contain compounds with proven anti-cancer activity.

7. COCONUT OIL/COCONUT BUTTER

Coconut oil/butter ROCKS. It is the only oil that won't turn rancid when heated unlike the commonly used olive oil. It has numerous health benefits including helping present osteoporosis, reduces the risk of cancer and heart disease, boosts immunity and stimulates the body's metabolism. Let's also not forget that it's an amazing moisturiser and nourishing hair mask! Add to smoothies, use for cooking, making cheesecakes and desserts.

8. GINGER

Ginger is a powerful anti inflammatory and anti nausea solution. Add a chunk to Pad Thai sauce, smoothies, grate in salads or adda  chunk in some hot water and raw honey

9. GARLIC

Garlic contains compounds that promote apoptosis in colon, breast, lung prostate cancer as well as leukemia. This compound also exists in onions, leeks, shallots and chives. Garlic is much more easily assimilated by the body when crushed and dissolved in a drop of olive oil. Add to salads, soups, raw nut cheese.

Read my earlier posts on superfoods like maca, lucuma, acai and more.

+ What are your favourite superfoods? Let me know in the comments below

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Polly Noble is a Holistic Health Coach + author. Diagnosed with cancer twice before the age of 28, Polly was forced to take inventory of her diet and lifestyle which sparked within her a deep desire to begin her own health revolution in order to stay well. She is a big advocate of eating clean, whole foods, drinking green juice and practicing the art of extreme self care which she encourages others to do so that they can live a life they love.  Her latest book out now is "The Cancer Journey - Positive Steps to Help Yourself Heal". Find out more at www.thecancerjourneybook.com.

Read more from Polly at her website, or connect with Polly through Facebook and Twitter.