How To Get The Most From Superfoods

3 MIN READ • 1st December 2017

Combining superfoods in different ways allows you to get the most from these nutritional powerhouses. Nutritionist Rick Hay shows us how it’s done...

To turn back the clock

Try açai, blueberry and raspberries

This health-boosting trio contains bioflavonoids, anthocyanidins and resveratrol – superbly powerful antioxidants that may help the body protect and repair itself. This, in turn, can have a positive effect on protecting the length of your ‘telomeres’ – little tips at the ends of your chromosomes that scientists have found shorten as the body ages. Longer healthy telomeres mean a longer healthy life.

To help with digestion

Try barley grass, aloe vera and turmeric

To reduce bloating and digestive problems add a half a teaspoon of barley grass and half a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a smoothie or juice and drink once or twice a day. You can also add 5mls of aloe vera juice (which is antiviral, antimicrobial and antibacterial) to soothe an upset tummy and to reduce flatulence. This combo has prebiotic qualities that will encourage the growth of gut-friendly probiotics. Turmeric contains a substance called curcumin which has been shown to work as a powerful anti-inflammatory.

For weight loss

Try chia seeds and spirulina

Add a teaspoon of chia seeds and one of spirulina to a smoothie in the morning to help kick start your metabolism. They are high in omega 3 fatty acids so they will help with healthy hair, skin and nails and cognition. They also balance blood sugar which in turn supports optimum fat metabolism.

For more energy

Try spirulina, maca and wheat grass

Chlorophyll-rich spirulina and wheatgrass contain high levels of magnesium which boost energy production at a cellular level. When combined with the amino acid-dense maca, these three make a great pre-exercise option – a nutrient dense natural energy drink that’s free from caffeine and sugar. This blend will also help promote lean muscle mass after exercise which assists in fat metabolism and toning.

For detoxing

Try chlorophyll, wheat grass, barley grass and spirulina

Cleanse and alkalise the system with these four super greens. You only need to add a quarter of a teaspoon of each to water or fresh juice to create a nutritional cocktail that will help to alkalise your system. This is a good option if you are feeling really stressed or if you have been consuming too much coffee, alcohol, sugar, dairy or meat. The key to these superfoods is their deep green coloured pigments – these help to create an environment that is optimal for healthy digestion and elimination.