NUTRITION TIP!! Natural energy boosters! 1. Spirulina Spirulina, a blue-green algae that grows in naturally alkaline (salty) waters, has endless health benefits. First off, it is 50-70% pure protein in its dry form, and unlike other forms of protein, it is incredibly digestible. Spirilina also contains more than 100 minerals and vitamins, including copper, vitamin K, vitamin E, selenium, vitamin D, zinc, gammalinolenic acid (GLA), beta-carotene and other B vitamins. Tip: add one teaspoon of powdered spirulina to a glass of juice or your favourite smoothie recipe for an instant power boost. 2. Edamame beans Edamame beans are the perfect low-fat, protein-rich, highly energising snack, packed with B-vitamins, copper and phosphorous. The fresh vegetable soybeans contain about 36 percent protein, which is 86 percent higher than mature soybeans. Edamame is also anti-inflammatory, so great for easing inflammation from sports injuries or aching muscles. Tip: you can buy frozen edamame beans from most Asian supermarkets. Simply steam for several minutes and sprinkle with sea-salt. 3. Coconut water Coconut water is a natural isotonic drink that provides many of the same benefits as formulated sports drinks, with electrolytes in their natural form. Tip: many supermarket chains in Australia now stock fresh coconuts, so try to go for the real deal over the packaged product. A fresh coconut comes preservative-free and without any added sugar or salt. 4. Quinoa Quinoa is a superfood (or supergrain) and comes packed with health benefits. It’s high in Riboflavin (B2), which improves energy metabolism within brain and muscle cells and is known to help create energy production in cells. It also contains iron, which supplies oxygen to our muscles and aids in contraction. Iron also increases brain function, regulates body temperature, aids enzyme activity and increases metabolism. Tip: For “green quinoa”, put kale, spinach and parsley into the blender and add to the water while boiling your quinoa.
Posted on: Wed, 24 Dec 2014 01:00:25 +0000
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