You thought quinoa, coconut water and kale are the trendy superfoods? Well, we’re sorry to tell you that you’re not updated. There are some new kids on the block that have exotic tastes and more powerful nutritional benefits. Who thought of fasting with avocado toast or drinking collagen several years ago? We certainly didn’t. But better let’s read more about these new superfoods trends that are coming our way and establish together if they worth the buzz!
- Nut oils
Last year, when more and more people decided to ditch animal-sourced products in favor of plant-based diets, nut butters gained a lot of popularity. Following this trend, the nut oils obtained from cold-pressed cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts or almonds became the new breed of superfoods. Although their nutritional profile is quite similar, it seems that the oils contain less trans fats that are damaging for our heart. So whenever you want to enjoy a salad, consider using some hazelnut oil or avocado oil (if you’re allergic to nuts) and enjoy its full benefits.
- Moringa
We all supercharged our smoothies with spirulina, chlorella, maca and matcha. But guess what? There’s a new super-green in town that is packed with all the great vitamins, minerals and amino acids our body needs. It comes from the Moringa tree and it will offer your juice, smoothie or yoghurt a peppery flavor with a touch of bitterness. The best part is that moringa is caffeine free while still being a great energy booster. More than this, it can balance your blood sugar and stabilize the production of histamine.
- Chaga mushrooms
Forget maitake and shiitake mushrooms. They are not longer the most powerful fungi in the nutrition world. This new breed that resembles burnt charcoal has great anti-inflammatory properties, can regulate your digestive system and sooth inflammation in the bowels. Yes, it may look not very appetizing but since it can increase the production of immune cells, we believe you should give it a chance. It also works quite well in hot drinks so buy a packet of chaga and enjoy a mushroom coffee.
- Cassava flour
Move over coconut flour! You’re so last year! This new soft alternative to wheat and gluten-free consumers offers a great amount of nutritional benefits that you might not be able to get elsewhere. Yes, we can’t say that cassava flour is a superfood but it’s the best solution for your vegetarian recipes of savory breads because it doesn’t contain allergens and it doesn’t cause IBS irritation, bloating or other digestive issues that are usually linked to gluten-based flour.
- Watermelon seeds
Never thought of it? Well, what if we’re telling you that they replace the chia, sesame and pumpkin seeds among superfoods enthusiasts? Yes, watermelon seeds are full of goodness if you let them sprout before consumption. One cup of watermelon seeds contains 31 gm of protein, vitamin B, magnesium and polyunsaturated and monosaturated fats. Roast them, sprinkle them over your salads, acai bowls, yoghurts and give your meals a nutritional boost.
- Maqui berries
Acai and goji berries had their moment and now it’s the perfect time to let maqui berries shine. This low-sugar alternative to the berries of the moment have a less bitter taste and contain a bigger dose of antioxidants that can fight against oxidative stress, regulate blood sugar, aid digestion and speed up metabolism. Mostly consumed for their rainbow of minerals and vitamins, but also for their high intake of fiber, these fruits go perfectly in your smoothie, breakfast bowl or morning juice. Just add two tbsp of powder and supercharge your whole day!
- Tiger nuts
Small, raisin-shaped and with a high amount of dietary fibers, these superfoods are making their presence known and became the most popular addon in sweet and savory recipes. Easily grounded or compressed they can be a great vegan alternative for cow’s milk. Their high amount of magnesium can help the muscles relax and that makes tiger nuts a great remedy for menstrual cramps. More than this, because they are high in vegetable protein, potassium and prebiotics, tiger nuts can help aid digestion and increase the sensation of fullness.
- Probiotic waters
Several years ago, probiotics became mainstream on the dietary market. They were added in supplements, yoghurts, chocolates and all sorts of products for health-conscious individuals. Great in keeping the microbiome balanced and maintaining the digestive system healthy, these gut-friendly superfoods deserved their glorification.
But why to eat probiotics when you can drink them? Now present in liquid form, for a easier and better intake and absorption, probiotic waters are the new thing you need to maintain equilibrium in your gut. So, if you experience cramps, bloating or other digestive problems, add these unconventional liquids in your diet and enhance your overall health.
So, the next time you’ll see one of your crazy nutrition enthusiast friend sipping chaga coffee, drinking probiotic water or topping their yoghurt with sprouted watermelon seeds, don’t act surprise. They know what they’re doing!
