Cool Ways With Seriously "Super" Foods!

Last week we explored a range of super foods you can find at your local supermarket (remember your old friend the green veggie... anyone?). But this week's super foodie article is all about learning how to enjoy those new-age, power-packed items that live only in the coolest of health food stores... y'know, the ones you're not quite sure what to do with!Helping us unravel the topic is all-round natural living devotee and keen foodie blogger Jessica Sepel. Read on for Jess' favourite super foods and a few ideas on how to incorporate them easily into your everyday life.

Jessica Sepel's Superfood Staples

Goji berries 

One of my favourites, containing essential fatty acids and B vitamins, essential for energy and stress release. Goji's contain powerful antioxidants to help combat premature ageing and improve eyesight (they're high n vitamin A) and are also very good for improving circulation and boosting your immune system.How to use? Add 1 tbs into smoothies for a sweet boost, or sprinkle on yoghurt to add texture. Also an interesting little extra to add to my yummy homemade Protein Bites. 

Chia seeds

These are high in Omega-3 fats (and yummier than fish oil!), B12, protein, calcium, potassium and iron and are also a great antioxidant.How to use? Sprinkle on oats or your home made muesli, add to smoothies for extra thickness, soak in coconut milk and a little cacao for a chocolatey treat, or try the delicious chia breakfast cocktail by the wonderful Melissa Ambrosini. 

Cacao Powder

This one has been called, "Food of the Gods" and hey, anything chocolatey has our attention! Cacao contains theobromine, a mild stimulant that can help enhance fat burning. It also increases pleasure and relaxation by boosting the feel good brain chemical (serotonin). Studies suggest cacao can lower cholesterol and help to control blood sugar levels (diabetics take note! Just don't use this as an excuse to delve into the chocolate box. We're talking raw cacao only, no sugar or milk added!).How to use? Add 1 tbs into warm porridge - better that chocolate pudding I swear! Or make a hot chocolate with boiling water/milk of choice. I also love adding a scoop to my smoothies, or try a delicious homemade nutella (yes please!) by the wonderful Claire Obeid of The Wellness Project. 

Stevia

Your new best friend - the alternative to artificial sweetener! Stevia is totally natural, contains no calories and will not spike blood sugar levels, helping you control cravings and your weight. The taste isn't for everyone so just add a small amount to start with, to avoid overkill!How to use? I use stevia to sweeten my tea, yoghurt, oatmeal and smoothies! 

Kale

The queen of greens! Kale contains super powerful antioxidants, helping to fight infection and detoxify your liver. Also high in iron, vitamin K, C and calcium.How to use? Chop and pop into your daily salad, or try my kale chips. 

Oat bran

A cholesterol-lowering agent as well an amazing source of fiber.How to use? Boil 1/3 cup oat bran in water/almond milk. Add nuts, berries and sprinkle with stevia and cinnamon. 

Apple cider vinegar

Promotes digestion and cellular cleansing in our bodies. It is also a great digestive tract cleanser and restores alkaline levels, therefore restoring hormonal balance.How to use? Add 1 tbsp into warm water every morning (or before a big meal to boost digestive enzymes), or use as salad dressing. 

Bee Pollen

Studies show bee pollen can restore balance to our endocrine system (hormones). Great for PMS and menstrual irregularity.Very high in protein and also contains natural Phenylalanine which acts as an appetite suppressant and Lecithin to help flush fat from the body. Extremely good for detoxification and cleansing.How to use? Add 1 tsp into your smoothie/juice, or simply eat a handful as is! This takes a little getting used to but is a powerful way to enjoy your bee pollen and can even help chase away a headache when enjoyed 'straight up'! 

Cinnamon

My favourite!!! This healthy spice is from the brown bark of the cinnamon tree. A daily dose of cinnamon has been found to stabilise blood sugar levels, which will help you control cravings and sudden hunger (it slows down digestion and sugar absorption). Studies also show it can lower LDL (bad cholesterol) too.How to use? Sprinkle on anything! I add cinnamon to my daily smoothie and yoghurt, or another great option is to sprinkle some onto grilled pumpkin for a super healthy version of pumpkin-pie. 

Coconut water

Packed with electrolytes so it naturally hydrates and balances pH in our bodies, clearing skin and detoxifying. Studies show that it can enhance weight loss by keeping the metabolism rate of the body at an optimal level. Very low in calories too!How to use? Great after a workout to replenish hydration!! Or add into your daily smoothies post workout (note: if you don't have a real coconut handy, Bondi BUF loves CHI Coconut Water, the lowest in sugar on the market and tastes pretty close to the natural version!) Check out more from Jessica Sebel here. And enjoy incorporating these seriously "super" foods into your daily lives. We're personally off to create some homemade nutella, erm, NOW. Thanks for the tips Jess!