Superfood Secrets of a Supermodel
Miranda Kerr is most known for her career as a supermodel but many don’t know she has a background in nutrition and is passionate about natural living. Find out her favorite superfoods here. (by Rhiannon Sawyer, the Daily Telegraph)
Cacao powder Miranda says: “This is one of the best sources of muscle-relaxing, stress-relieving magnesium. I often use cacao powder in shakes.” Cacao is also rich in amino acids, beta-carotene, zinc and iron.
Raw dark chocolate Miranda says: “This is my weakness. It’s rich in antioxidants though, and I’m happy to remind myself of that!” Aside from its antioxidant benefits, raw dark chocolate is lower in fat than milk chocolate.
Sweet potatoes Miranda says: “My son Flynn loves these as much as I do! They can be grilled, mashed and roasted.” Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A and low-GI, and also provide fibre and a third of your daily required amount of vitamin C.
Maca root powder Miranda says: “Rich in amino acids, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and trace elements, it’s great to mix into smoothies, yoghurt, cereal, oatmeal or muesli.” Dubbed “the Peruvian superfood”.
Certified organic coconut palm sugar Miranda says: “This is a great substitute for regular white sugar, as it’s low-GI.” An unbleached sugar alternative harvested from the coconut tree blossom. It is low GI so reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Liquid chlorophyll Miranda says: “I add this to my water most days. It is naturally alkaline and contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids.” Chlorophyll is the green pigment in plants that is formed from sunlight and early research suggests it may help protect the body from the damaging effects of too much red meat.
Coconut water Packed with electrolytes, coconut water is being billed as a powerful natural hydrator. While more research is needed into its health benefits, it is an undeniable source of vitamins C and B, protein, calcium, iron and zinc. It has very little sugar and zero fat.
Chia oil Miranda says: “I use this or chia seeds in shakes. They’re also great for thickening a healthy muffin mix.” Chia is rich in antioxidants and omega-3. As it has little taste, the oil can be added to food or used in baking while the seeds are sprinkled on cereals.
Goji berries Miranda says: “A great snack between meals, goji berries are rich in antioxidants and are said to have more vitamin C than oranges.” These berries have been part of traditional Asian medicine for centuries.
Raw honey Miranda says: “It’s 100 per cent natural and deliciously sweet.” Research shows honey may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a healthier alternative to cane sugar.
Tamari almonds Miranda says: “I rarely leave the house without a small bag of these. They’re the perfect snack while I am on the road and I can never get enough.” Almonds are high in fibre, low-GI and a source of vitamin E, magnesium and riboflavin.
Organic wine If you’re attempting a completely organic diet and can’t part with the odd drop, Miranda recommends investigating the new crop of organic wines, many of which are also biodynamic and vegan-friendly.
Acai berry powder Miranda says: “I sprinkle it on my porridge, gluten-free cereal or smoothie.” Acai berries are a rich source of antioxidants and the powder is easily added to foods.
Dulse leaf and wakame seaweeds Miranda says: “I snack on these throughout the day and also put wakame in soups as it is nutritious and tasty.” Seaweed is rich in omega-3, iron and calcium and the red dulse variety is also very high in protein.
Noni juice Miranda says: “This is my worst-kept beauty secret. I drink it daily and noni extract is part of my Kora Organics range. It aids the immune system because of the number of vitamins and minerals it contains.” Noni juice is high in vitamin C and potassium and may have antibacterial properties.
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