Today I wanted to give you a dose of food as medicine. Enjoy!
Let’s explore these three superfoods and their benefits:
BAOBAB:
The “upside down” Baobab Tree found across sub-Saharan Africa produces a melon like fruit with legendary healing properties. This fruit contains 6X more Vitamin C than oranges, 2X as much calcium than a glass of milk and 6X more potassium than a banana! Let’s be sure to mention that the fruit of the Baobab Tree has an antioxidant level that trumps blueberries, pomegranates and cranberries. It as well is chock full of thiamine, vitamin B6, iron and zinc. Just 1 heaping tablespoon of Baobab powder will satisfy 33% of your recommended daily dose of fiber. This fiber content, in combination with high levels of pectin in this fruit, will keep your weight balanced by satisfying your hunger for longer.
HOW TO USE: Give your breakfast a healthy twist! Add a tablespoon to smoothies, fruit juices, breakfast cereal, oatmeal or yogurt.
MANGOSTEEN:
Known as the “Queen of Fruit”, this superfood is found on one of the slowest growing fruit trees in the world and has a diverse list of health benefits. The rind of Mangosteen contains xanthine alkaloids which have ant-microbial, anti-inflammatory and even anti-tumor properties. Because Mangosteen is rich in antioxidants it drives off UV radiation damage by helping protect your bod at the cellular level. It has been shown to help fight chronic inflammation.
HOW TO USE:
Sprinkle into beverages, on top of salads or even use topically on damaged skin.
CINNAMON:
I bet this super spice is already sitting in your kitchen cupboard! We know it’s sweet aroma is prevalent in homes across our country, but this spice derived from the cinnamon tree’s potent bark does more than flavor your pumpkin pie! Throughout North Africa and Eurasia, cinnamon is used in many dishes and is esteemed for its medicinal qualities.
In our caffeine loving society, I must mention that adding a pinch of cinnamon to your coffee slows the absorption of caffeine into your bloodstream. This allows for a longer and more balanced energy boost. Keeping our blood sugar levels is key when it comes to longevity (just look at those *blue zones!). Cinnamon as well has powerful anti-fungal, anti-parasitic and anti-bacterial properties.
HOW TO USE:
Cinnamon is a versatile spice that can enhance the flavor of a variety of meals and beverages. Try a pinch in your coffee!
*blue zones are geographic areas of the world where people live measurably longer lives
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