5 SUPER-FOODS YOU CAN’T PRONOUNCE (BUT MIGHT WANT TO TRY)

ACAI (uh-saw-ee)

Pros:  These berries hail from Brazil and have a slightly chocolate taste.  Acai is readily available these days in juice form and is said to contain ten times more antioxidants than red grapes.   Acai berries contain an almost perfect essential amino acid complex, which is important for muscle contraction and regeneration.  These berries also have anti-inflammatory properties, so drinking acai juice may be beneficial for those with arthritis.

Cons:  Acai juice has an odd taste which takes getting used to.  Also, since Acai is not readily available in raw form, the pasteurized and processed juice available for consumption tends to contain a significant amount of sugar.

CHIA (chee-uh)

Pros:   You may recognize chia from the animal-shaped pots which grow into fuzzy companions.  However, chia seeds can be consumed on just about anything from salads to cereals and smoothies.  The slightly nutty taste is mild, which makes them pleasant to consume so you can easily benefit from their high levels of omega-3 fats and fibre.  Cholesterol-lowering chia can also help stabilize blood sugar, so it might be helpful for those at risk of diabetes.

Cons:  While the high fibre content of chia makes it a perfect food to help in cleansing the body of toxins, the recommended dose of one tablespoon can cause stomach discomfort.  We recommend taking the dosage over several meals and with plenty of water.

Goji (go-jee)

Pros:  These berries found in the Himalayas may be helpful for those with diabetes, hypertension, and even cancer.  Containing high levels of vitamin C, beta carotene and anti-oxidants, goji berries are available in dried form and can be eaten on cereals, smoothies, and salads.

Cons:  Although they are very nutritious, other benefits of goji berries have not been scientifically proven.  The tart taste and high price of these berries might be a problem for some people.

Maca (mah-cah)

Pros:  This tuberous vegetable comes from Peru and has been consumed there for centuries.  Maca is thought to aid in hormonal balance, strengthening the immune system and the libido, and improving energy levels.  While also available in pill and liquid extract form, maca powder itself can be used in many recipes as well as in smoothies.  It tastes slightly malty but not unpleasant and can even be applied to the skin in order to help remove blemishes.

Cons:  Consuming too much maca too soon can cause insomnia.

Kefir (kee-fur)

Pros:  This fermented probiotic milk comes from the Caucasus Mountains and has been a staple food for many centuries.  Kefir combines milk with yeasts and lactobacillus bacteria, therefore making this drink incredibly high in probiotics and ideal for healthy digestion and a healthy immune system.

Cons:  If one is used to eating yogurt, the fizzy and tangy taste of kefir is quite different.  We like the flavoured varieties rather than the plain, although this usually equates to added sugar.  Be careful not to over-consume, as a little goes a long way.