The superfoods we’re about to see everywhere in 2017

With the New Year commencing so are the latest superfood items. It’s not always easy to know which ones are worth the hype and the most beneficial for your body so we have rounded up the top 5 superfood trends to hit the shelves in 2017.

1. Charcoal

Activated charcoal offers some pretty amazing health benefits. Most commonly it has been used to improve digestive function and decrease the production of gas, but it also has fantastic teeth whitening properties. Charcoal works by binding with surface staining culprits like coffee and wine, removing plaque with one application. Look out for an abundance of charcoal-based teeth whitening products in 2017.

2. Diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth, otherwise known as fossil shell powder, is a natural detoxifying agent that acts to absorb harmful toxins, kill parasites and improve digestive function. It is one of the best natural ways to regulate bowel movements, without the negative impacts or dependency of laxatives. Diatomaceous earth is great in a smoothie or taken as a tablespoon mixed in a glass of water, once or twice each day.

3. Green Banana Flour

A prebiotic and resistant starch, green banana flour is one of the best natural additions to improve your digestion, the balance of beneficial gut bacteria and overall gut health. Made from green lady finger bananas, it is one of the highest sources of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5HTP) which balances your mood and can improve sleep. Simply use in smoothies, muffins and similar healthy treats, or mix in water and consume on a daily basis.

4. Blue Green Algae

Blue green algae have been shown to support the immune system, reduce inflammation, decrease triglyceride levels and protect against oxidative stress¹. It can be consumed as a supplement in either capsule or powder form, but it 2017, “smurf lattes” will be popping up in cafes everywhere. Yes, you heard that right. Blue algae powder served with your favourite heated nut milk will be all the rage.

5. Gelatin

Gelatin is an animal derived product, rich in the amino acids proline and glycine. It enhances gastric secretion which improves nutrient absorption and decreases inflammation. Gelatin is not only fantastic for digestive integrity, but also for an efficient metabolism, exercise recovery, joint health, immune function and strong hair and nails. Try our Gut Loving Gummies for your way to fantastic gut health with the addition benefit of turmeric, a fantastic anti-inflammatory and healing spice.

Gut-loving Gummies – Lemon

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup water
• 3 1/2 tablespoons grass-fed gelatin powder
• 2 teaspoons rice malt syrup
• 1 teaspoon cold-pressed extra virgin coconut oil
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• The juice 1/2 lemon
• A pinch of sea salt          

Method

1. Dissolve the gelatin in ⅓ cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to become gel-like. It will firm immediately so stir quickly and leave it until a rubber ball-like consistency forms.
2. Heat the rice malt syrup, coconut oil, turmeric, lemon juice and salt in a saucepan. Stir in the gelatin and remove from heat.
3. Pour into a 10 x 15 cm glass or plastic container. Refrigerate for 1 hour then cut into squares. Store in the fridge for up to 5-7 days and consume 3-4 per day.

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References

¹ Siah Ku, C et al. (2013). Health Benefits of Blue-Green Algae: Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Journal of Medicine and Food, 16(2), 103–111.

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