By definition, superfoods are sparse in calories and dense in nutrients, meaning they pack a lot of punch when it comes to nourishing your body. They are foods from in nature, not manufactured in a plant and sold in a box or package. 

They are excellent sources of antioxidants and essential nutrients that we need but cannot make ourselves. 

The most important thing to know is that superfoods are easy to find at your local Farmers Market and in every grocery store. 

Here are my some of my favorite superfoods:

1. Apples

2. Blueberries

3. Beets

4. Avocados

5. Kale

6. Kiwi Fruit

7. Parsnips

8. Sweet Potatoes

9. Brazil Nuts

10. Wild Salmon

These superfoods are nutritional powerhouses loaded with nutrients that are crucial to living a healthy, long life.

You can supercharge superfoods by including a variety of them in your diet every day. I promise, doing so will change your life!

Here are a few more my favorite superfoods that you may or may not heard of, or even have tried:

1 | Chia Seeds

Ancient cultures in Central America have long enjoyed chia seeds. It's  an essential part of their food and medicine. The seeds are so valuable; they have even been used as currency. 

Chia seeds are loaded with omega fats, protein, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. They have a mild nutty flavor and, since they absorb liquid, they’re ideal for hydration and feeling full.  

How to Eat:

Banana Coconut Chia Pudding Recipe

Mix 1 ripe mashed banana, 1 cup dairy-free milk, 1/3 cup shredded unsweetened coconut, 2 tablespoons chia seeds, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Place ingredients in a sealed container and shake well. 

Place in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours or overnight.  

2 | Hemp Seeds

Hemp is a well-balanced, plant-based protein source that contains all of the essential amino acids. 

Not only is hemp one of the best plant-based sources of protein, but it's also easy for the body to digest and absorb. 

Hemp also features plenty of additional nutrients, including abundant amounts of fiber, chlorophyll, vitamins, and omega-3 and -6 essential fatty acids. 

How To Use:

Sprinkle hemp seeds on salads like a seasoning, or add them to smoothies for added protein. 

Just three tablespoons of hemp seeds will add 11 grams of protein to your smoothie.

3 | Raw Cacao Nibs

Raw cacao nibs are commonly known as "nature’s chocolate chips."

Cacao nibs come from pure cacao beans that come straight out of the tropical cacao fruit. 

Cacao was a culinary treasure to Mesoamericans for thousands of years and touted as the "Food of the Gods" for its superior nutritional profile and delicious flavor. 

How to Use:

Make a trail mix with shredded coconut, raw cacao nibs, dried cranberries, and a nut of your choice, add it to smoothies for a chocolatey look and taste, and bake with it in a variety of ways.

4 | Maca

Maca is a potent, ancient Peruvian superfood highly prized by Incan warriors.

It is known to increase stamina, boost libido, and combat fatigue. The Incas valued maca root for its adaptogenic-like qualities. It nourishes and balances the body's delicate endocrine system and helps to cope with stress. It also energizes naturally, without the jitters and crashes of caffeine. It can aid in reproductive function, and help to balance hormones and increase fertility.  

How to Use:

Add maca to smoothies for an extra energy boost.

5 | Goji Berries

Goji Berries are sweet, little berries but are a source of essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and soluble fiber. Even more, they include 18 amino acids, free-radical fighting antioxidants, carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and more than 20 other trace minerals and vitamins including zinc, iron, phosphorus, and riboflavin (B2). 

Ounce-for-ounce, goji berries contain more vitamin C than oranges, more beta-carotene than carrots, and more iron than soybeans and spinach. 

How to eat:

Munch on these goodies as your afternoon snack!

Give one of these superfoods a try today to supercharge your day!