A new year means new superfoods to get excited over. In the past we’ve had kale, acai, goji and chia seeds(although the list goes on), but now MuscleFood.com has predicted which superfoods are going to take the health world by storm in 2018.
1. Cassava flour
Cassava flour may just be the holy grail of gluten-free, grain-free cooking. Traditionally used in South Asia this flour is made from the cassava – a root vegetable – making it paleo, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free and dairy-free friendly.
2. ‘Super powders’
The benefits of consuming ’super powders’ like turmeric and matcha are well documented (anti-inflammatory, improves energy, high in antioxidants, etc.); but MuscleFood predicts that health food retailers will see an increase in consumers taking powders for health and wellbeing.
3. Maqui berries
Everyone knows about the powerful antioxidant properties in goji berries, but now macqui berries are set to take over in popularity. Maqui berries are very rich in anthocyanins, which are purple pigments with very high antioxidant activity. With a milder flavour than goji or acai berries, macqui is also thought to regulate blood sugar levels.
4. Tiger nuts
Tiger nuts are largely unknown, but these small nuts are filled with fibre, vegetable protein, potassium and prebiotics, known to assist digestion. Not only this, but they're also a source of magnesium, a natural muscle relaxant and essential mineral to keep blood pressure healthy and bones strong.
5. Nut oils
Nut butters took the world by storm in 2017 and now it’s nut oils’ turn. Whether it’s derived from almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, tiger nuts, or even peanuts, MuscleFood predicts that oils will be the new cooking oil of choice thanks to a ‘better smoke point’ and lower trans fat intake.
6. Bacon
Despite the World Health Organisation classifying bacon as a carcinogen in 2015, the hangover breakfast staple is reportedly an alleviant of diabetes, stroke and heart disease when cooked without nitrates (chemicals or natural salts & preservatives – so not fried). Although a controversial pick, bacon is a source of protein and amino acids - the building blocks of muscle tissue – and can also provide your body with low-carbohydrate energy.
7. Mushrooms
Believe it or not, mushrooms are a powerful antioxidant and a great source of vitamin D and B-vitamins. It’s predicted that mushrooms will soon be put in everything from tea to skincare.
