Sunday, August 10, 2008

Who needs a Self-Portrait, I have Super Foods!

Dorian Grey could drink what he wanted, eat what he wanted and indulge every vice without reaping the consequences. Unfortunately, this is the real world, so we must all strive to keep balance in our lives, and the best way to achieve this is through antioxidants. Antioxidants are nutritional power houses that clean up our bodies. As with everything, some foods are better than others as far as their impact and levels of potency. I would like to give a brief breakdown of the top five “super foods”
ACAI- Qualities of a berry and a nut and about half the size of a grape with ten times more antioxidants than grapes, five times more than gingko biloba, and twice that of blueberries. Acai is extremely high in essential omega fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, protein, fiber, anthocyanins and more. Acai may support health brain function, mental clarity, hormonal balance, immune system, energy, anti-aging, beautiful skin, reduces inflammation and supports health cholesterol
levels. Acai has been featured on Oprah as the “Number One Superfood for age defying beauty.”
Capuacu- This fruit is about the size of a melon, looks like a coconut and is related to cacao.
This Super food is extremely high in flavanoids, including two newly discovered flavanoids. Flavonoids are most commonly known for their antioxidant activity. However, flavanoids are now known for the health benefits they provide against cancer and heart disease. This fruit may help lower cholesterol levels and protect against cardiovascular disease. This fruit is known to possess antiviral, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. Cupuacu was featured on NBC’s Today Show as “The Next Big Superfood.”
Cacao- Cacao beans grow on trees and are the raw uncooked form of chocolate. Cacao contains a wide array of unique properties and minerals, including beneficial high levels of magnesium, which has calming qualities. Cacao is known to have rejuvenating effects and to support healthy heart function, increase alertness and focus and to contain nutrients that make you happy.
Camu Camu- This fruit is about the size of a cherry and contains 30-60 times more vitamin-C than an orange. Camu camu is high in amino acids, flavanoids, valine, leucine and serine
and is known to support the metabolism and immune system.
Goji Berries- Goji berries contain ten times more antioxidants than blueberries and contain eighteen of the nineteen amino acids. Goji berries contain up to 21 trace minerals and vitamins B1, B2, B6 and vitamin E. Goji berries are known to enhance immune system function, improve eyesight, protect the liver and lungs, and improve circulation and reduce inflammation.

There are many products out today that boast large Acai contents, but there aren’t many that have all of these. My personal favorite is a juice blend called V. It has a great taste and a smooth finish. There are no added sugars and it has a hint of vanilla. My hope is that this juice will help me to maintain my health for a very long while. If anyone has trouble finding this juice, or would like to try it, contact me via email and I will get you the information.
Written by Jeremy Hargrove

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