9 Superfoods You Need to Try in 2019

Ocean Pleasant

Instagram: @thrivemags

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We hear the same superfoods used time and time again; hemp seeds, maca root, turmeric, spirulina; but it’s time to shake up our smoothie ingredients in the new year with a fresh selection of superfoods that many of us haven’t tried before!

1. Fiddleheads

Just in time for spring, these ferns are only in season for a few weeks out of the year. They taste similarly to asparagus, but with an earthy, nutty edge. Packed with Vitamin A and Vitamin C. If you happen to encounter this veggie at the farmer’s market this spring, grab it!

2. Pichuberry

This cherry-sized fruit is native to Peru, and packs a punch despite its tiny size. It contains a crazy level of antioxidants and goes great atop your smoothie bowl or even in baked goods! It is also said to protect against liver damage.

3. Buffaloberries or Shepherdia This small red berry can actually be found in North America, but don’t go out looking for it unless you really know how to spot it, since it’s nearly interchangeable with a lot of little red poisonous berries lurking about. This berry is best consumed in drinks or sweet sauces, and carries phenolic and carotenoid antioxidants. It’s said to protect against chronic diseases like diabetes.

4. Kiwicha (Amaranth) This seed-like grain is totally safe for anyone with a gluten intolerance or Celiac disease! This superfood contains phenolic compounds, packed with fiber, iron, zinc, and calcium. It’s great as a breakfast cereal and can even be popped like popcorn. Cop this superfood if you’re looking for amino acids, calcium and iron.

5. Beluga Lentils These lentils are native to Syria and look remarkably similar to caviar. Toss them in salads or soups to take full advantage of the flavonoid antioxidants inside, which are said to strengthen memory. Just a half cup offers 12 grams of protein and 9 grams of fiber!

6. Birch Tree Water Harvested similarly to maple syrup, this superfood comes directly from the Birch tree. The sap’s primary benefits include enhanced skin health, hydration, weight loss. It also stimulates the cleansing systems of the body, helping boost kidney and liver functions. Micronutrients unique to the birch tree are also said to help strengthen the immune system!

7. Arame

Arame is a kelp/ sea veggie collected off the shores of Japan, but can be found at many health food stores. This is an excellent source of calcium, iron, iodine, magnesium, and vitamin A. Toss it in a salad or some homemade rice wraps!

8. Adzuki Beans Beans are known for having a lot of nutrition packed in, but Adzuki beans in particular carry higher amounts of protein and less fat count than most! They’ve also got a high potassium count, B vitamins, potassium, and fiber. A great source of energy. Substitute these in for any meal you’d use a different type of bean for, and note the difference in your amplified energy level.

9. Za’atar

This is actually a spice mix, not technically it’s own superfood, but hear me out! As a mixture of oregano, thyme, marjoram, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt, it contains high levels of carvacrol, which is a compound known for its antioxidant benefits and can have a positive impact on your mood and cognitive abilities.