In our 'cooking with superfoods' blog series - below we cover information on:

1. Chia Seeds
2. Flax Seeds
3. Spirulina
4. Maca
5. Pink Pitaya

Chia Seeds (Read More about the famous 'Chia Pudding' in our Healthy Breakfast Items Blog)

Calories in Chia Seeds per 100g - 444kcal

Nutrition in Chia Seeds

High in fiber and a great source of protein. They are also full of minerals such as manganese, phosphorus etc.

Chia Seed Recipes

Overnight Chia Seed Pudding, Chia in infused water and fresh juices, Chia as a topping for salads, bread and stir fry, Chia and mixed seed crackers

Where did Chia Seeds originate / where are Chia Seeds cultivated?

Mexico & Guatemala

Health benefits of Chia Seeds

This superfood actually has it’s name derived from a Mayan word meaning “strength”. Chia seeds help promote weight loss, bone health, reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes as well as cancer.

Flax Seeds

Calories in Flax Seeds per 100g - 534kcal

Nutrition in Flax Seeds

High in fiber and a great source of protein. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids

Flax Seed Recipes

Flax seeds aren’t usually used as the main ingredients in most dishes - although there is plenty that can be done with them.

Flax and mixed seed bread & crackers, mix in smoothies, use while baking as a substitute for eggs, use as garnish for soups, salads and stir frys

Where did Flax Seeds originate / where are Flax Seeds cultivated?

Egypt

Health benefits of Flax Seeds

Flax seed helps with hypertension, blood sugar / diabetes, inflammation and also is useful to calm hot flashes women experience during menopause

Spirulina

Calories in Spirulina per 100g - 409kcal

Nutrition in Spirulina

Spirulina is known for it’s high protein content - 60 to 70% of spirulina’s dry weight is basically protein. It contains essential amino acids that are the building blocks of protein. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium and potassium and B vitamins.

Spirulina Recipes

Can be mixed in water, smoothies, soups, juices and lemonade, can be added to pesto and guacamole, can be added to energy bars, truffles etc

Where did Spirulina originate / where is Spirulina cultivated?

Mexico & parts of Africa

Health Benefits of Spirulina

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of spirulina help with chronic inflammation and help prevent the risk of cancer. It also helps regularise cholesterol i.e., reduce LDL or “bad cholesterol” and increase HDL or “good cholesterol” which usually links to heart health management too.

Maca

Calories in Maca per 100g - 325kcal

Nutrition in Maca

Maca is known for its high protein and Vitamin C content.

Maca Recipes

Almond butter, coffee, maca smoothie, Maca cacao energy bites or cookies, Maca Coconut Milk Latte, Maca Honey Cinnamon Overnight Oats, Maca Fruit Smoothie

Where did Maca originate / where is Maca cultivated?

Peru

Health benefits of Maca

Maca is popular for its benefits related to hormonal health as well as energy enhancing factors. The adaptogen helps females with their libido and fertility.

Pink Pitaya

Calories in Pink Pitaya per 100g - 500kcal

Nutrition in Pink Pitaya

In terms of macros, carbs are found to be the highest in pink pitaya or dragon fruit. Pink pitaya is loaded with dietary fiber.

Pink Pitaya Recipes

Pink pitaya smoothie bowl with frozen banana, nut milk and nut butters, add it too lattes, pink pitaya cookies and treats

Where did Pink Pitaya originate / where is Pink Pitaya cultivated?

Origin -South America & parts of Asia

Health benefits of Pink Pitaya

Pink pitaya has benefits related to gut health and improving good bacteria balance, helps boost immunity, and also helps with hair, skin and nail health.

To learn more on nutritional benefits of ingredients and how to create recipes with them - contact NutriCal.

You may also email us at info@nutrical.co as well as call or whatsapp us at +971 54 994 1190.