Superfoods, we can't shake
them. Be it the London Lite or Sainsburys, this nutritional buzz word
is omnipresent. And UJ - ever on a mission of self and health improvement
- is biting.
Sadly, our first foray into the world of
acai ended up in the bin (the distributor failed to note "assembly
required"). A few test drives later, we give you an insider's guide
in to the more obscure of these dietary wonders.
Acai
The Dirt: Pronounced ah-sah-yee,
in its original form this fruit is a berry, but (outside of
its native Brazil) is generally sold as a frozen pulp. Surprisingly
rich, acai has a flavor that lands somewhere between a fruity
berry and chocolate. Why Bother? Having been deemed
one of the most nutritionally rich and powerful antioxidants
in the world, acai is also an excellent source of B vitamins,
minerals, fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Recommended consumption: Our favorite
of the ambiguous Superfood bunch, acai must be sweetened but
once prepared is delish, satisfying and (like its Latin roots)
sexually charged. Try blending acai (1pkg), banana (1), honey
(to taste) and milk into smoothie and sprinkle w/ granola-summer's
answer to winter's all day energy giving porridge. Daily Dosage: 1 packet Price: £3.99/6 serving package
Cacao:
The Dirt: Cacao beans (a nut
by origin) grow on jungle trees and are the source of all things
chocolate. In its raw form, cacao beans are simply an unsweetened,
less-rich version of dark chocolate. Why Bother? The word is that cacao
beans-despite their petite size-house over 300 chemically identifiable
compounds and are one of the most complex foods on earth. Aside
from antioxidant properties, cacao has high levels of magnesium
essential for healthy heart function and, just like chocolate,
has mood elevators to help you forget that recent row with your
boyfriend. Recommended consumption: As chocolate
purists, UJ enjoys munching these nibs on their own; a healthier,
craving killing alternative to a Mars bar. However, the flavor
may not be suitable to all palates. For Lindt lovers, we'd propose
a sprinkle on muesli or a milkshake blend. Daily dosage: 10-20 grams. Price: £1.99/60 gram package
Bee Pollen:
The Dirt: Bee pollen is the
brilliantly yellow dust a bee gathers from the inner part of
a flower called the stamen. Once in the hive, bees turn the
pollen into small pellets that are picked up by bee keepers
and air-dried. Logically, the resulting taste is similar to
a grainy honey. Why Bother? While possessing a
multitude of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, bee pollen's
superstar role is that of an immune system booster. Ironically,
it is also one of the most effective ways to treat hay fever
and air born allergies. Recommended consumption: Bee pollen
is an easy and not too invasive addition to the daily diet.
Depending on our menu of the moment, we sprinkle it onto cereal,
fruit, salad or practically anywhere we want a little sweetness.
Daily dosage: 1-3 tablespoons. Price: £5.99/150 gram canister
Maca:
The Dirt: A root resembling
a turnip, Maca is Peru’s natural Viagra. Once cultivated,
the Maca plant is dried and ground. The result is a strong,
smoky and distinctivly flavored powder that can take a bit of
getting used to. Why Bother?: Maca is said to boost
sexual health and function for all, normalize periods in women
and, due to its hormone regulating properties, aid in the treatment
of acne. Recommended Consumption: General
wisdom advises adding Maca to cereal, yogurt or coffee, but
UJ tends to find the flavor a bit too savory in the a.m. We
suggest sprinkling this wonder dust on cooked veggies, soup
or mixing it into salad dressing. Daily dosage: 2 tablespoons. Price: £7.99/ 220gram packet
Goji Berries:
The Dirt: This Chinese raisin-like
red berry is famously temperamental. If touched by human hands
during harvesting, goji berries will turn black, a sort of anti-Midas
quality that cultivating a magical air of mystique. Flavor-wise
expect a slightly medicinal blend of cherry and strawberry. Why Bother? Chinese Li Qing Yuen,
who consumed iron rich Goji berries daily apparently lived to
the age of 252 years (1678-1930). Reason enough for us. Recommended Consumption: For the
raw food veteran goji berries may be enjoyable on their own,
but newbies (like us) will probably prefer adding them to their
morning muesli or trail mix. Daily Dosage:
10-20 grams. Price: £1.99/150 gram packet