Without doubt, nowadays, with more and more people are becoming aware of the importance of a healthy diet, so, we’re learning which foods are great choices for us and which aren’t.
And, kale, legumes, chia seeds, and acai are often on our menus because they’re deemed as superfoods.
Although all of them are rich in nutrients, according to Esosa Edosomwan, certified nutrition specialist and behavior coach, they’re ‘nothing’ compared to African superfoods.
Below, check out her favorite superfoods from Africa, as well as the best ways to add them to your diet and how they’ll help you.
4 Best African Supplements, According to Certified Nutritionist
- Moringa
Edosomwan says that this is her number 1 superfood.
She was introduced to it when she visited Ghana and met with moringa farmers. According to smaller studies, moringa had amazing benefits as a potential treatment for malnutrition.
And, it’s indeed amazing-it has 92 nutrients and 36 amino acids-all of the essential ones.
Moreover, it has seven times more vitamin C than oranges, three times more potassium than bananas, four times more calcium than milk, and four times more vitamin A than carrots.
It can be added to smoothies, homemade bread, pizza crusts, in pesto sauce, and more. You can also sprinkle it on top of whole-wheat pasta and other dishes.
2. Baobab
She says that baobab is so cool they call it the tree of life in Africa. These trees can grow for 15 to 20 years and bear fruits.
These fruits have been on our earth for thousands of years-a real ancient nutrient. The football-shaped fruit, when cracked open, reveals an interesting consistency which can be ground into a powder.
It has around 50 percent probiotic fiber-essential for keeping our gut flora balanced. It’s also abundant in potassium, vitamin C, and minerals.
Baobab tastes tart so she usually combines it into fruit smoothies and smoothie bowls. She also loves adding it to orange juice.
3. Teff
This grain is the real deal-it’s rich in vitamins A, B, C, and K, as well as a lot of calcium and iron.
It makes the great craving satisfier for women during their period. What’s more, it has a fair share of some crucial nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and all of the essential amino acids.
It’s also good for the gut since it’s free of gluten and 20 to 40 percent resistant starch. Although it’s most commonly used as flour, it’s great in fonio.
It’s similar to couscous and quinoa and it takes only a bit to be cooked.
4. Hibiscus
In Africa, hibiscus is known under several names, including bissap, sobolo or zobo. Different regions have different names for it-however, it’s all the same.
This plant is an awesome diuretic and it can be of aid in reducing the blood pressure, improving your digestion, and lowering inflammation.
Drink it as tea, but don’t go heavy on the sugar, Edosomwan advises.
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