The 10 is back and this week we are getting a little weird on you, nutritionally that is. With the broadening of the health and fitness industry, people are looking deeper and deeper into nutrition and finding the healthiest foods around the world. So, this installment of The 10 is all about the best foods you might not have heard of, and might be a little nervous to try out!
(In no particular order…)
- Wheatgrass: This is one you’ve probably heard of and maybe even tried. It is a staple in juice bars and health food cafes. What you may not know is the reason why. Wheatgrass cleans toxins from the body and is considered to be healthier than almost any other vegetable. Case made, just hope you enjoy the… earthy flavor.
- Marmite:
This is another one that probably has crossed your path, especially if you’ve been to the UK or down under. Marmite is a pantry must-have in certain parts of the world and there seems to be pretty good reason why. This spread made from yeast extract is low in sugar, low in calories and 100% vegetarian. It’s a great source of protein plus various vitamins and minerals that help break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats to deliver you energy, as well as promote a healthy nervous and digestive system. - Arame: Now for the more “out there” options. This sea vegetable is collected off the coast of Japan and is loaded with vitamins and minerals. Arame has been shown to strengthen nails and hair, and improve complexion. It is best when added to salads or soup.
- Beef Brains: Yes, I actually am suggesting you try beef brains. Gross? Yes! Healthy? Yes again. One 100-g serving of this (admittedly nauseating) dish can provide one-fifth of your daily protein needs, without adding high amounts of fat. It’s popular among people on a low-fat/hi-protein diet.
- Amaranth: Have you heard of this super-grain? It has a higher fiber content than wheat, provides potassium, Vitamins A and C, and iron. It’s easy on the digestive system so it’s popular amongst those recovering from sickness.
- Kohlrabi: Found originally in Europe, Kohlrabi means “cabbage-turnip”. Great in salads or stir-fries, this cousin of broccoli & cabbage packs a lot of Vitamin C, potassium and cancer-fighting phytochemical.
- Chicken Liver: Now, let’s be clear. I’m not talking about pate. Chicken liver itself, packs in a lot of iron, Vitamins A and B12, plus Folate which promotes fertility and Selenium which keeps your thyroid healthy. Certainly more impressive than the nutritional content of it’s spreadable derivative.
- Millet:
Sure, it may be found in bird seed but that doesn’t make it just for the birds. Millet is gluten free, chock full of magnesium, Magnese, fiber and phytic acid and totally safe for humans. Magnese promotes the development of connective tissue, bones and sex hormones in the body. - Hemp Milk: This may not be way out there in terms of strangeness, but hemp milk is certainly on the list of weird products that are super healthy. This milk alternative is full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium and other minerals, vitamins and acids.
- Kimchee:
Another popular vegetable originated and popularized in the orient. One serving of this fermented cabbage contains a full days worth of Vitamin C, as well as carotene and dietary fiber. But one of the highest benefits could be the healthy bacteria that aid digestion.
