10 Superfoods You Should Try In 2016, Including Coconut Oil, Spirulina And Matcha

10 Superfoods You Should Try In 2016
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From spirulina to matcha green tea and maca powder, a whole host of superfoods shot onto our radar in 2015.

If you didn't get around to trying them all, here are the ones you should make time for this year.

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Spirulina is a single-celled, blue-green micro algae that has lived on Earth for roughly 3.5 billion years, yet we don't use enough of it in our cooking.

It's a rich source of nutrients and antioxidants such as beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, selium, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E and B-Complex.

On top of that it's high in protein and amino acids, which help the body to fight infection while encouraging the growth of good bacteria in the gut.

Advocates say it can also be beneficial for the skin, aiding repair and rejuvenation.

Buy it in powder form and add it to smoothies, soups, pestos and stir-fry recipes.

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Dubbed "nature's viagra", the native Peruvian plant maca has been used as a fertility aid in both humans and animals for thousands of years.

But more recently, foodies have been adding maca powder into smoothies in the hope of gaining energy.

Nutritionists believe the plant helps to stabilise the endocrine system - the collection of glands that produce hormones to regulate metabolism, growth, sexual function, reproduction, sleep and mood.

Try it in smoothies, cakes, porridge, milk drinks or cacao treats.

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Camu camu is well-known for having 50 times more vitamin C than your average orange, but it's also high in B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, iron, amino acids, antioxidants and bioflavonoids.

Advocates believe this mix of vitamins and minerals gives camu camu antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Buy the fruit in powder form and mix with fruit juices or blend into smoothies.

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Raw cacao is made by cold-pressing unroasted cocoa beans, which preserves the beans' nutritional content. Think of it as the healthier relative of cocoa.

Cacao beans are rich in a number of essential minerals, including magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, potassium and manganese.

Foods rich in magnesium have been shown to balance brain chemistry, build strong bones and help regulate heartbeat and blood pressure.

Cacao also contains the beauty mineral sulfur, which is thought to promote strong nails and hair and provide glowing skin.

On top of all that, cacao has been shown to raise the level of serotonin in the brain, meaning it reduces symptoms of PMS and acts as an antidepressant for some people.

Add it to smoothies, teas, desserts, raw food bars or any dish that calls for the delicious flavour of chocolate.

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Traditionally a Middle Eastern food, freekeh is simply wheat that has been harvested earlier than we would normally in the UK. It is then roasted and threshed.

It's thought to contain three times the amount of protein and twice the amount of fibre than brown rice, meaning it can play an important role in diabetes and weight management.

Freekeh also has a low glycaemic index meaning that carbohydrates release quite slowly compared to baked potatoes and white bread and we feel energised for longer.

Use freekeh in place of brown rice or barley in dishes like pilafs, risottos and salads.

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Coconut has been cited for boosting metabolism, keeping you feeling fuller for longer, brightening teeth and strengthening immunity in recent years.

But in 2015, coconut oil took centre stage.

Extracted from the meat of the fruit, coconut oil can now be found in everything from salads and smoothies to beauty balms and hair treatments.

Advocates say the oil's antibacterial components and antioxidants help calm breakouts and brighten skin tone.

Make the most of it in the kitchen by adding it to salad dressings, soups and baking.

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Matcha, the finely ground powder made of whole, high-grade green tea leaves, is thought to contain as many antioxidants as 10 glasses of regular green tea.

It's been consumed in the Far East for over a millennium, but the tea has gained in popularity closer to home in recent years as a way to boost energy.

Nutritionists have said that matcha's unique combination of nutrients and amino acids, including L-Theanine, provide increased endurance for up to six hours with none of the usual side-effects of stimulants such as nervousness and hypertension.

In short, it's good, clean energy.

Add ½ teaspoon of matcha powder to your chosen drink - fruit juice, hot/cold water or milk - or add to baking if you're feeling adventurous.

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Bone broth, known to some people as stock, is a liquid made by boiling poultry, beef or fish bones until they break down. Vegetables such as onions, ginger, celery and garlic are sometimes added for flavour.

Dieticians have said bone broth can be beneficial to health as it's hydrating and contains vegetable and herb anti-inflammatories.

The bones the broth is made from also provide collagen - a protein thought to help with our own bone, joint and skin health.

Although bone broth has been used in cooking for years, fans are now sipping on it as a drink.

Find out how to make broth at home here.

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The South American fruit lucuma packs a powerful health punch with its abundance of antioxidants, fibre, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

The fruit also acts as a natural, healthy sweetener, meaning it can help stabilise blood sugar while also curbing cravings and appetite.

Studies have found lucuma extract has an anti-inflammatory effect on wound healing and even reduces skin ageing.

Because of its sweet taste, you can use lucuma powder in place of sugar in most dessert recipes including cakes and biscuits.

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Chlorella is a single-celled, fresh water algae which is cultivated mostly in Asia.

It's been heralded as the "number one algae for liver detoxification" as it removes alcohol, heavy metals and environmental pollutants from your system.

It also contains vitamins B6, B12 and iron, which support the immune system and may prevent you from catching a pesky cold.

To drink chlorella stir the powder into water and add a good squeeze of lemon to tone down the taste.

30 Superfoods To Try In 2016
Flaxseeds(01 of30)
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Health benefits: Good for the heart, thanks to omega-3 essential fatty acids and lignans, as well as colon-cleansing fibre (of which it contains soluble and insoluble types), according to WebMD.How to eat them: On top of cereal, in yogurt. (credit:Getty Images)
Broccoli(02 of30)
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Health benefits: Broccoli contains three nutrients that help neutralize toxins in the body, according to Chatelaine. Broccoli contains sulforaphane, which has been shown to help fight cancer and diabetes, among other issues, says PreventDisease.com.How to eat it: Preferably raw, like in a broccoli slaw. (credit:Getty Images)
Broccoli Sprouts(03 of30)
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Health benefits: Consuming broccoli sprouts was found to help the body excrete pollutants, according to NPR. And per a 2009 study quoted on WebMD, broccoli sprouts can help protect the stomach from Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a germ that could lead to ulcers, gastritis or stomach cancer.How to eat them: Add some salt to eat them as a snack, or throw them in a stir-fry. (credit:Getty Images)
Parsley(04 of30)
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Health benefits: Parsley boasts plenty of beta-carotene and vitamins A, C and K to help protect your kidneys and bladder, two key organs in detoxification. How to eat it: In a smoothie or as a tea. (credit:Getty Images)
Beets(05 of30)
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Health benefits: Beets help support good gallbladder and liver health. And they're full of vitamins B3, B6, C and beta-carotene, and are also a valuable source of iron, magnesium, zinc and calcium. How to eat them: Pickled, roasted, even juiced. (credit:Getty Images)
Brazil Nuts(06 of30)
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Health benefits: EverydayHealth.com reports one Brazil nut contains an entire day's worth of selenium, which helps break down toxins in the liver and can help fight off bone, prostate or breast cancer. Even though it is identified as a nut, this superfood is actually a seed.How to eat them: They can be enjoyed raw or roasted, but be careful not to overindulge, as eating too many Brazil nuts can result in selenium toxicity. (credit:Brazil Nuts)
Hemp(07 of30)
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Health benefits: Another fibre powerhouse, hemp seeds contain every essential amino acid you'll need to make it through the day, reports Shape Magazine. There are several other benefits, too, as they're rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help protect cell walls against toxins. How to eat them: Try them raw, salted or toss them on your salads or pasta. (credit:Getty Images)
Lemongrass(08 of30)
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Health benefits: Lemongrass is antiseptic properties and can help lower cholesterol, relieve fevers and improve or regulate one's blood sugar, according to SF Gate. How to eat it: Its tangy flavour can be minced into soups, curries or boiled into tea. (credit:Getty Images)
Cocoa(09 of30)
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Health benefits: The antioxidants in cocoa can help reduce memory loss, and lower the risk of heart attacks or cardiovascular disease. It's also an excellent anti-inflammatory powder.How to eat them: It can be baked into just about any dessert or drink, but why not add it into a brownie to improve your health and satisfy your chocolate fix? (credit:Getty Images)
Citrus Peels(10 of30)
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Health benefits: Citrus peels, specifically lime peels, are full of calcium, and Chatelaine magazine reports they can help reduce several different signs of aging. They can also help lower cholesterol, and improve the appearance of your skin.How to eat them: Try adding them to a lentil soup, a spring salad, or even a cocktail. (credit:Getty Images)
Garlic(11 of30)
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Health benefits: Last year, the Huffington Post Canada listed 11 healthy reasons to add more garlic to your diet, with one of the benefits being to boost your body's immune system and heart health. Click here for the full list.How to eat them: Crush it, mince it, slice it and dice it into your meats, sandwiches, salads, and soups. It's a handy (and fragrant) all-around seasoning, and helps repel vampires. (credit:Getty Images)
Cilantro(12 of30)
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Health benefits: Cilantro is a natural cleansing agent, which makes it an excellent source for Vitamin K. According to LiveStrong.com, this helps form strong bones and prevent blood clots.How to eat them: Sprinkle cilantro on a salad or soup, it is best enjoyed as a garnish. (credit:Getty Images)
Dandelion Green(13 of30)
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Health benefits: Dandelion greens are effective herbs that assist your digestive system, and promote regular bladder and bowel movements. WebMD says they also relieve stomach cramping, gas and muscle aches.How to eat them: Mix them into your salad greens, or add the powdered root into your soup or tea. (credit:Getty Images)
Green Tea(14 of30)
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Health benefits: Green tea is chock-full of antioxidants, which support cleansing by fighting damage caused by free radicals in our bodies. It's anti-inflammatory and can help speed up your metabolism and boost your brain cell production, while simultaneously soothing the body.How to eat it: Sip it hot, cold or enjoy it in its many other powdered forms, like green tea ice cream. (credit:Getty Images)
Cauliflower(15 of30)
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Health benefits: Another cruciferous veggie with cleansing benefits similar to broccoli, cauliflower is rich in vitamins and minerals, and boosts the body's supply of Vitamin K. How to eat them: Munch on some raw cauliflower, or boil it to add it to your favourite pasta, chicken or fish dishes. (credit:Getty Images)
Kale(16 of30)
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Health benefits: It's well known that this leafy veg is packed full of colon-friendly fibre, but did you know kale contains more Vitamin C than an orange? Shape Magazine says this means that one cup of chopped kale contains 134 per cent of the daily Vitamin C requirement, and can help improve your cardiovascular health. How to eat them: Have you ever tried kale chips? Kale can be baked (and salted), or enjoyed in stews, sauteed, or raw in salads. (credit:Getty Images)
Olive Or Coconut Oil (Oil Pulling)(17 of30)
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Health benefits: Full of medium-chain fatty acids, olive or coconut oil may be high in calories, but remains a great source of lauric acid, or healthy cholesterol. For cleansing, try oil-pulling with coconut or olive oil. It's also an excellent moisturizer for your skin. How to use it: See above for oil-pulling how-tos. Coconut oil makes for a great cooking aid, and also adds a dash of flavour to your favourite meals. (credit:Getty Images)
Apple Cider Vinegars(18 of30)
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Health benefits: Apple Cider Vinegar is a Dr. Oz favourite, and can be used to balance your digestive system, remove dandruff or take care of foot odour.How to use it: Try mixing it into teas, soups or salad dressings. (credit:Getty Images)
Tumeric(19 of30)
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Health benefits: Tumeric can help relieve liver ailments, fight off heart attacks and delay diabetes. How to eat them: Crushed tumeric root is fragrant, and is typically found in curries, soups, salad dressings or sauces. (credit:Getty Images)
Lemons(20 of30)
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Health benefits: Lemons (or lemon juice) can help hydrate your body, combat UTIs and relieve constipation. Here are the Huffington Post Canada's 12 reasons to start drinking lemon water.How to eat them: Squeeze some lemon juice into water, or add lemon slices to your favourite drinks. Alternatively, enjoy some lemon peels in salads or sauces. It's very refreshing. (credit:Getty Images)
Ginger(21 of30)
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Health benefits: Ginger doesn't just add more flavour to your favourite meals, but aids in the digestive process and also helps alleviate chest or sinus congestion, or stomach inflammation. However, according to LiveStrong.com, it should not be used as liberally by anyone with diabetes, gallstones or gallbladder disease.How to eat them: Use it as a seasoning or garnish in tea, soups, salads or drinks. (credit:Getty Images)
Artichokes(22 of30)
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Health benefits: Artichokes can help cleanse your liver and prevent stomach ulcers, as per Chatelaine.How to eat them: Steam or boil raw artichokes and enjoy them as a side dish, in a salad or with a main course like chicken, fish or tofu. Alternatively, artichokes can also be candied and served as a dessert with beets. (credit:Getty Images)
Cabbage(23 of30)
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Health benefits: Cabbage made Men's Health Magazine's list of the 10 Best Foods You Aren't Eating, and for good reason. The vegetable contains a chemical known as sulforaphane, which increases the amount of enzymes in your body that can fight off cancer.How to eat them: Boil it into a soup, or add it to variety of your favourite vegetable dishes or niche salads. (credit:Getty Images)
Watercress(24 of30)
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Health benefits: Watercress may be peppery, but its flavonoid antioxidants can help improve your eyesight and maintain cardiovascular health, reports The Guardian.How to eat them: Use watercress to enhance the flavour of your signature fish or chicken dishes, or to create a hearty broth. (credit:Getty Images)
Pineapple(25 of30)
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Health benefits: Pineapple contains a high amount of sugar (16 grams per cup, but its high amount of Vitamin A helps to replenish the body's damaged cell count, and eyesight.How to eat them: Enjoy raw pineapple in slices, cubes or in a juice. (credit:Getty Images)
Seaweed(26 of30)
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Health benefits: The Huffington Post has previously written about seaweed, dubbing it the "green superfood you're not eating," as it can help regulate the body's hormone levels of estrogen and estradiol while serving as an anti-inflammatory.How to eat them: Steam it, chop it raw or enjoy it with sauce or dressing in a salad. (credit:Getty Images)
Wheatgrass(27 of30)
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Health benefits: An excellent source of chlorophyll, wheatgrass can improve digestive and colon health. LiveStrong.com also reports its replenishing qualities also result in its frequent use to treat irritable bowel syndrome, and acid reflux disease.How to eat them: In a smoothie, in a salad, or in a soup. (credit:Getty Images)
Asparagus(28 of30)
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Health benefits: Chock-full of nutrients, asparagus is high in the detoxifying compound glutathione, which can help destroy carcinogens, according to Live Science. The vegetable is an excellent source of fibre, vitamins A, C, E and K and more, according to Eating Well Magazine. The vegetable also carries anti-aging qualities.How to eat it: Boil it, slice it and add the sauce of your choice to enjoy it as a delicious side or meal accompaniment. (credit:Getty Images)
Basil(29 of30)
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Health benefits: Basil can help clear your skin, and this iron source contains phytochemicals that can help lower cortisol, a stress-related hormone.How to eat it: An excellent seasoning, use fresh or powdered basil in your kitchen creations, or add the leaves to tea. (credit:Getty Images)
Cinnamon(30 of30)
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Health benefits: Cinnamon can help lower your blood sugar and carries healthy antioxidants. Health.com writes cinnamon also enhances cognitive function and brain health, while increasing your attention span.How to eat them: Cinnamon can be enjoyed in its powder form to sweeten up desserts, hot beverages (lattes, anyone?) or as a seasoning for hearty foods like fish and chicken. (credit:Getty Images)