What are power foods you ask? These are foods abundant in nutritional value. They are powerful because they give you such an incredible variety of complex nutrients that your body needs to function efficiently.
They are your superheroes.
There are dozens of power foods out there – most of them you’ve heard of and some you probably consume on a regular basis. [Think spinach and broccoli] But there are some that I’m betting you don’t know about.
Here are three power foods you need to get your hands on:
Quinoa
The often neglected and surprisingly unknown power food – that’s Quinoa. Often considered a grain, Quinoa is actually spinach’s good-looking cousin – a relative of leafy green vegetables. It has a fluffy, creamy, slightly crunchy texture but you’ll feel a slightly nutty flavor when you cook it.
Quinoa is an ancient “grain” and was once known as “the gold of the Incas” as it helped increase the stamina of warriors. It is a complete source of protein – it includes all nine essential amino acids and in high quantities.
This power food provides an incredible source of magnesium which helps improve cardiovascular health. Magnesium helps relax blood vessels allowing for improved blood flow. More so, Quinoa is a great source of manganese, iron, copper, and phosphorus and can help with conditions such as migraine headaches and diabetes.
This great power food can be found in your local health food or bulk store. It is slightly expensive but the investment is more than worth it.
Hemp Seeds
Another rarely-heard-of power food – Hemp Seeds. These powerful little seeds contain all the essential amino acids and essential fatty acids required for healthy living. Considered a complete and perfect protein source, hemp seeds are considered the single best source of protein in a form that is so easily digested and absorbed by the body. A handful of hemp seeds is enough to satisfy your daily requirements.
These little seeds are also a good source of carbohydrates and the shell is an exceptional mineral source. Due to their nutritious superiority, hemp seeds are commonly used to repair meat in diets [for the vegetarians out there].
Due to its abundance of protein, hemp seeds help promote vigorous cell repair and development for improved health. The essential fatty acids aid in improved immune, cardiovascular and reproductive health. Also a great source of fiber, hemp seeds help improve your digestive health. [Read more about the importance of fiber]
A word of warning – hemp seeds act as a laxative so you might want to stay close to the bathroom when you first start using it.
Hemp seeds are quite expensive. Get them at your local health store to give them a try first. If you enjoy them, it is possible to order hemp seeds in bulk for cheaper. I strongly recommend giving it a try.
Kamut
Kamut is a non-hybridized strain of wheat, but with one big difference – it has a powerful punch of nutrients. It is the GIANT of wheat – the kernel is huge but so are the nutritional benefits.
Kamut contains roughly 40% more protein and 60-70% more amino acids than the more common wheat. It is also more tolerable and more easily digestible. It is also an incredible source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and potassium.
So how to get more Kamut in your diet? Replace your regular wheat flour with Kamut flour. It will take some time to get used to the taste, but it is well worth it.
Summary: Power foods do exist. They are the superheroes of nutritional value and will help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Give each a try and tell me what you think.
What are some power foods that contribute to your well-being?
