The Superfoods That Are Helping People Live Longer And Happier Lives – Part One

It seems that trends in the superfoods we should be eating change as regularly as the seasons. There was a time in the not too distant past when the likes of Chia Seeds and Kale were a staple component on the menus of Michelin Star chefs from all over world. These days, however, a new range of foods have entered the consciousness of the gastronomic elite, promising a plethora of new life enhancing qualities that appeal to those with a taste for the finer things in life. Food trends move so quickly they are hard to follow. That’s why at Alyaka we have created the following list of superfoods with enduring benefits and appeal. These are foods that are made all the more desirable due to the fact they have already passed through the zeitgeist. They are exclusive by nature of their fleeting moment in the spotlight at the head of the culinary curve. But don’t let that put you off, they are still sure to be a delight on the palette for you or your dinner party guests and, of course, they are all incredibly good for you.

Black Soybeans - Packed with nutritious vitamins

© Vishal Majithia It’s a little known fact that black soybeans contain more antioxidants, more protein and fewer carbohydrates than any other bean in the world. Dieticians everywhere praised these soybeans for their perfect carb-to-fiber ratio, making them ideal for those looking to lose weight. The high protein levels in black soybeans also mean you stay fuller for longer, so snacking between meals doesn’t need to be a concern. Packed with Vitamin E, this is a superfood that also has phenomenal antioxidation qualities. Other benefits of Vitamin E include that it can combat heart diseases and may even slow the deterioration associated with ageing.

Black soybean recipes you will love:

• Black soybean chicken caesar salad
• Black soybean hummus
• Black soybean soup

Teff - A tremendous range of health benefits

© Marc Teff is a grain that although tiny in scale, packs a tremendous range of health benefits, including being high in iron and gluten-free. It’s also great as a source of protein for vegetarians, and as a result has been enjoyed by celebrity icons like Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham. Teff is also loaded with Vitamin C, which is not normally found in grains, and has high levels of amino acids. This makes it ideal for eating after your exercise routine as it will help the body repair and grow. It’s also incredibly low in sodium, so if you need a heart-healthy food that tastes great, you don’t need to look much further than Teff.

Teff recipes you will love:

• Gluten-free Teff Brownies

Avocados - One of the original superfoods

© Ruth Hartnup The avocado is one of the original superfoods. Packed with nutrients and life-enhancing goodness, it is delicious and can be used in a wide range of recipes. In fact, it is so good for you that one study even found that it reduces cholesterol by 22%. Avocados contain a cocktail of vitamin E, folate, potassium, phytosterols and dietary fibre, making it the perfect food for maintaining a healthy heart. This is because it can regulate blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels drastically. Avocados are also great for weight loss and skin care.

Avocado recipes you will love:

• Avocado dulce de leche muffins

We hope you have enjoyed reading through part one of our superfood guide, we certainly enjoyed sampling these delights!  Remember to check back soon for part two to learn more about the food that are helping people live longer and happier lives.