We are constantly bombarded with the latest “super food” that we should add to our diets. Some of us are more influenced by the hype than others. A certain male in my family jumped on the soy shake bandwagon a few years ago, only to find out that it’s benefits centered mostly on relieving menopause symptoms!
These latest additions to the super food list come from afar, and are packed with medicinal properties to protect, enhance and boost your health.
Seaweed:
The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry has concluded that seaweed can be just as effective at lowering blood pressure as some medications. It’s also a great source of iodine, which helps control the thyroid, thus preventing weight gain. It contains natural magnesium, which can improve sleep quality.
Seaweed is a staple in the Japanese diet, and is used in making sushi, as well as tasty salads. Trader Joe’s has a great dried seaweed snack that is only 30 calories per serving and costs a mere $.99 per bag. Try the sea salt or wasabi versions as an alternative to highly caloric chips for a quick snack.
Miso:
This Japanese soy paste is popular when made into a soup, or used as a condiment to make sauces. It has also been linked to a low incidence of prostate cancer in Japanese men. A recent study has shown that women who ate 3 or more bowls of miso soup per day had a 40% less risk of breast cancer than women who at just one.
Super Easy Super Food Miso Soup:
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Stir a little bit into 2-4 tablespoons of miso paste and add it to the boiling water. As miso pastes differ, taste and add a bit more until you find the flavor that is best for you.
Add sliced green onions, soba noodles, cilantro, watercress, cubed firm tofu and maybe even a little seaweed if desired and enjoy!
photo: Glasshouse Images
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