Everything You Need To Know About Smoothie Powders
Calling all smoothie lovers. Maybe you looking to supercharge your smoothies with an extra dose of nutrition? Or perhaps you just want something a little easier and more convenient. Today, we’re exploring the ins and outs of smoothie powders. They can be a game-changer for your health regime and are incredibly easy to use.
What Does Smoothie Powder Do?
There are three main types of smoothie powder. There are those that replace the main ingredients of your smoothie. So, fruit powders, vegetable powders, or maybe protein powders. Then there are those that boost the nutrient content of your smoothie a little bit more. Things like maca powder, or ground flax. Finally, there are commercially prepared blends that include most (or all) of these in a single mix.
All of these are made from dehydrated ingredients that you simply reconstitute with a liquid. Usually water. The easiest and most convenient way is simply to stir or shake them, but you can also give them a quick whiz in a blender for totally smooth results.
Are Smoothie Powders Good For You?
But are smoothie powders good for you? Whilst we are all for what’s quick and easy, what about nutrition?
It turns out that they come with a pretty impressive set of creds on the nutrition front. Obviously, each one has a completely different profile from the next, but overall they can be a fantastic addition to your diet, especially if you struggle with getting enough fruits, veggies, or protein.
Yet, as with most things, the key is choosing the right ones and using them correctly.
Nutrients in smoothie powders
Vitamins and minerals
Fruit and vegetable powders are rich in essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health. You might find everything from Vitamin A for eye health to magnesium for muscle function. Whilst it is true that many vitamins, such as C, can degrade during processing and storage, the fact remains that most fruit and vegetable powders are rich and concentrated sources of most of the key nutrients found within the fresh produce itself.
Protein: essential amino acids
Protein powders, both vegan and dairy, offer a convenient way to increase your daily protein intake which is crucial for muscle repair and growth.
When you scoop into a jar of protein powder, what you’re getting is a concentrated dose of protein that’s been extracted and processed from its source—be it whey from milk, peas for the plant-based folks, or even crickets for the adventurous eaters among us (yes, that’s a thing!). But it’s not just about packing in the protein at the gym, these powders are for anyone needing a quick protein pick-me-up.
Fibre: insoluble and soluble
Whilst most smoothie powders boast that they contain plenty of fibre, which is great, it has already been broken down for you which means your body won’t have to do the work. In terms of soluble fibre this is not a problem, but when it comes to the indigestible fibre found in whole plants, the body does benefit from doing the work itself. Whilst this is by no means a downside, just be sure to include fresh wholefoods in your diet as well.
Fatty acids: Omega-3s and more
These powerful nutrients, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, are essential for heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Some powders include flaxseed, chia seeds, or hemp, which are all excellent plant-based sources of Omega-3s. Getting enough Omega-3s in your diet can be tricky, especially if you’re not a fan of fish or are following a plant-based lifestyle.
Our top tip: While smoothie powders can amp up your nutrient intake, remember to check the labels for added sugars or artificial ingredients – your body will thank you for it! And don’t forget to include whole natural foods in your diet too.
What is the healthiest powder to add to a smoothie?
The healthiest powder to put in a smoothie depends on your own individual nutritional needs. Discovering a range of powders that, when put together, provide the balance of nutrients you need is far more effective than isolating one single powder or superfood.
That said, there are some single superfood powders that come with an impressive nutritional profile. Here are just a few.
Maca powder
Maca is largely revered as an adaptogen, a natural substance believed to help the body adapt to stress and promote balance and overall well-being. It is also well known for its potential in maintaining hormonal balance, making it a popular choice for those looking to align their endocrine system naturally.
Find out more in our article ‘maca; the superfood you need in your diet’
Goji berry powder
Goji berries contain ten times more antioxidants than blueberries, and are one of few fruits rich in fatty acids. Know in Chinese Traditional Medicine as the longevity fruit, goji berries are rich in plant chemicals that support eye health, improve memory, and aid restful sleep.
Cacao powder
Cacao is also rich in powerful antioxidants, as well as containing a staggering range of nutrients.
Not only is it loaded with antioxidants that fight off free radicals, but it’s also brimming with minerals like magnesium, which is great for your heart and brain. Plus, it has more calcium per gram than cow’s milk, making it a delicious option for bone health. And let’s not forget the mood-enhancing effects of cacao—thanks to the natural compounds that release feel-good hormones, adding a scoop of this decadent powder to your blend can actually make you feel happier. We call that a winner.
The Benefits of Smoothie Powders
The benefits of smoothie powders go beyond the simply nutritional.
Convenience
Just scoop, blend, and go! Smoothie powders simplify the process of getting your daily dose of vitamins and minerals, especially on those busy mornings.
Versatility
Whether you’re craving something sweet, looking to boost your protein intake, or wanting a refreshing drink, there’s a smoothie powder out there to help you crush those goals.
Longevity
These powders have a longer shelf life than fresh produce and don’t require any refrigeration, which means less waste and more bang for your buck.
Customization
Mix and match to create personalized blends that cater to your taste preferences and nutritional needs.
Portability
They’re perfect for people on the move. Pack some powder, find water, and you’ve got a nutrient-rich snack wherever you are.
Nutrient dense
And of course, as we have already seen, they’re concentrated sources of nutrients. With a single scoop, you’re often getting the equivalent nutritional benefits of multiple servings of fruits or vegetables.
To wrap it up, smoothie powders are simply about blending convenience with health. Quite literally.
We’ve got loads of super smoothie ingredients available to buy online, including all these smoothie powders that we have been talking about.
This article was reproduced on this site with permission from operafoods.com.au the “Smoothie Ingredients Distributors & Wholesalers”.
See original article:- Everything You Need To Know About Smoothie Powders
Fruit Powders: Your New Secret Ingredient
What are Fruit Powders?
Fruit powders are a convenient and nutritious addition to any kitchen. Essentially, they are fresh fruits that have been dried and pulverized into a fine powder. This process typically involves freeze-drying or dehydrating the fruits to remove their water content, while preserving the maximum amount of nutrients and flavour. The result is a concentrated fruit product, packed with the same vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants as the original fruit, but in a form that’s easy to store and versatile in its use.
Not just for the health-conscious, fruit powders have long been used by pastry chefs and chocolatiers for their bright colours and concentrated flavours.
How are Fruit Powders Made?
The process of making fruit powders involves a few crucial steps. Initially, high-quality, ripe fruits are selected and thoroughly cleaned. After that, they are sliced into thin pieces to ensure even drying. The fruit slices are then subjected to a drying process, commonly freeze-drying or dehydration.
In freeze-drying, the fruit slices are frozen and then placed in a vacuum chamber to eliminate the ice content by sublimation. Dehydration involves circulating hot, dry air around the fruits to remove their water content. Both methods help to retain the nutritional value and natural colour of the fruits, yet dehydration is considered to be the superior of the two. Finally, the dried fruit pieces are ground into a fine powder using a pulverizer. This fruit powder is then packaged and ready for use.
Boost Nutrients fruit powders
Our Boost Nutrients fruit powders are made from slowly dehydrated pureed fruit, for the maximum retention of nutrients, colour and flavour. We do our best to source only Australian produce where possible, and preferably organic or pesticide-free.
Is dehydrated fruit powder healthy?
Yes, dehydrated fruit powder is indeed healthy. The dehydration process aims to eliminate water while preserving the nutritional content of the fruit. This means that the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in the original fruit are retained in the powdered version. In fact, since powdered fruit is more concentrated, a small serving can provide a significant amount of these nutrients. However, it’s important to note that while fruit powders are a convenient and versatile way to boost your nutrient intake, they shouldn’t replace whole fruits in your diet. Whole fruits offer dietary fibre and more volatile nutrients that may be lost during the drying process. Therefore, use fruit powders as a supplement to a balanced diet rich in whole fruits.
How long does dehydrated fruit powder last?
Dehydrated fruit powder can last for a long time if stored correctly. Generally, it can stay fresh and retain its nutritional content for up to a year. It’s crucial to store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and to keep it sealed in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption. Despite its long shelf life, it’s always a good idea to check for changes in colour, smell, and texture as these may indicate that the fruit powder is no longer in optimal condition.
The Benefits of Using Fruit Powders
Fruit powders offer several benefits that make them an excellent addition to your nutritional regiment:
Convenience: You can easily incorporate into a variety of meals, drinks, and snacks. They’re lightweight, easy to transport, and don’t require refrigeration, making them the perfect solution to your busy schedule.
Long Shelf Life: As mentioned earlier, fruit powders can last for up to a year when stored correctly, so you can enjoy their nutritional benefits long after fresh fruits would have gone in the bin.
High in Nutrients: Fruit powders are concentrated sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This makes them a potent supplement for boosting your daily nutrient intake.
Low in Calories: Most fruit powders are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake.
Versatility: Fruit powders can be used in a wide variety of recipes. They can add a nutritional punch and exciting flavours to smoothies, baked goods, sauces, salad dressings, and much more.
Remember, while fruit powders can supplement a healthy diet, they are not meant to replace whole fruits, which provide essential dietary fibre and other nutrients.
Different Types of Fruit Powders
Most fruit can be dehydrated to make into powder, yet some popular types are a particularly versatile addition to your pantry.
Here are some of the most popular types of fruit powders:
Banana Powder
Just like fresh bananas, banana powder is equally at home as a sweet slightly neutral base for other flavours or as the star of the show.
Try our Boost Nutrients organic banana powder
Berry Powder
This powder is packed with vitamin C, adding a tangy-sweet flavour and beautiful colour to your food. It goes really well with chocolate or cacao.
Our Boost Nutrients berry powder is made from only Australian berries
Mango Powder
Not to be confused with the Indian amchur which is a traditional souring agent, our mango powder has all the sweet goodness and flavour of ripe Australian mangoes.
Try our Boost Nutrients mango powder made with Australian mangoes
Goji Berry Powder
Highly nutritious, goji powder is a beautiful colour and a convenient versatile way to harness the nutritional power of goji berries.
Try our Boost Nutrients goji berry powder
Sometimes you come across a fruit powder that you wouldn’t have thought of, and have never seen before. Like our must-try super fruity organic peach powder.
Remember, each type of fruit powder carries its own unique nutritional profile and therefore serves different dietary purposes. Experiment with a combination of different fruit powders to discover which ones best suit your taste and nutritional needs!
Ways to use dehydrated fruit powders
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Smoothies:
Add a spoonful of your favourite fruit powder to your smoothie for an extra burst of flavour and nutrients. Try mixing different powders to create your own easy-to-use blends.
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Baking:
Fruit powders work great in baked goods. They can be used to add flavour and colour to cookies, muffins, cakes, and bread.
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Yogurt and Cereal:
Sprinkle some on your morning yogurt or cereal for a fruity twist.
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Pancake and Waffle Batter:
Mix some fruit powder into your pancake or waffle batter to make breakfast more exciting.
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Salad Dressings:
Use fruit powders to make your own salad dressings. They can add a lovely sweetness and tang to your salads.
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Teas and Lemonades:
Stir a little fruit powder into your tea or lemonade for a unique taste.
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Homemade Ice Cream:
Use fruit powders to add flavour and colour to homemade ice cream, or even to liven up a store-bought vanilla!
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Energy Bars and Balls:
Incorporate fruit powders into homemade energy bars or balls for natural sweetness and added nutritional kick.
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Marinades and Rubs:
Certain fruit powders, like pineapple or mango, can be excellent in marinades or rubs for meat. They not only add a pleasing acidity but contain enzymes that tenderise the meat.
Remember, the possibilities are only limited by your imagination! Experiment with different powders and recipes to discover your favourite combinations and expand your kitchen repertoire.
Find out more about the power of superfood powders in our guide.
Explore our full range of fruit powders and store cupboard superfoods that you didn’t know you couldn’t live without.
This article was reproduced on this site with permission from operafoods.com.au the “Best Fruit & Veg Powders distributors”.
See original article:- Fruit Powders: Your New Secret Ingredient
Boost your Brekkie: 8 Awesome Smoothie Bowl Toppings
What is a Smoothie Bowl?
Similar to an acai bowl, a smoothie bowl is a thicker, spoonable version of a regular smoothie. It is usually made with frozen fruits and vegetables, along with some liquid such as milk or juice. Served in a bowl, this thick, ice-cold base is the starting point for any number of toppings that not only boost the nutrient content but add contrasting tastes and textures.
Not only are they visually appealing and Insta-worthy, but smoothie bowls also offer a convenient way to maximise your nutritional intake at the start of the day. Or any time of day really.
So now that is out of the way, the next obvious question involves toppings for your smoothie bowls.
Our Favourite Toppings for Smoothie Bowls
Toppings add taste and texture to your smoothie bowl, as well as that all-important nutrient boost. You can pretty much put anything on there but here are a few of our favourites that are as nutritious as they are delicious.
Topping 1: Fruit Powder
Fruit powder is a game changer when it comes to smoothie bowl toppings. Made by simply dehydrating fruits and grinding them into a fine powder, it packs all the flavour of fresh fruit, but in a storage-friendly form. From tangy berries to tropical mango, fruit powder not only adds a vibrant color to your smoothie bowl, but also a concentrated punch of vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness.
Try our range our fruit powders
Topping 2: Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are tiny nutrition bombs that make a great topping for your smoothie bowl. Despite their small size, they’re packed with dietary fibre, protein, and a load of essential minerals. Not only do they add a satisfying crunch to your bowl, but when soaked in liquid (like milk or yogurt), they form a gel-like consistency for an extra creamy texture. Try using both for an interesting contrast.
Our black chia seeds are organic
Topping 3: Black Sesame
Black sesame seeds are the grown-up sophisticated cousin of your standard white sesame seeds. They have a slightly different flavour profile, with a nutty and slightly bitter taste. They also contain a higher level of antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Plus, the colour is great and can be used to striking effect. Think two-tone, rather than a riot of colour.
These black sesame seeds will boost your bowl
Topping 4: Cacao Nibs
Cacao nibs are the perfect topping for those who want to indulge their chocolate cravings more healthily. Essentially they are pieces of cacao beans that have been roasted, separated from their husks, and broken into smaller bits. They taste like dark chocolate but with a raw, more intense flavour and a satisfyingly crunchy texture. Cacao nibs are loaded with fibre, protein, and beneficial compounds like flavonoids.
Try these organic cacao nibs for an antioxidant boost
Topping 5: Dried Fruit
Dried fruit offers yet another textural contrast, bringing an almost candy-like chew. With all the sharp sweetness of fruit, in a concentrated flavour, they are also a longer-lasting store-cupboard-friendly option. As much as we love raisins, we are thinking along the more interesting lines of sharp sour cherries or tangy blueberries.
Try these organic dried cherries
Topping 6: Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds aren’t about to win the pretty prize, but what they lack in insta-friendly colour they make up for in nutritional heft. They are a powerhouse of proteins and healthy fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and they also serve as a rich source of dietary fibre and essential vitamins and minerals.
Our organic hemp seeds are hulled for better nutrient release
Topping 7: Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, bring a delightful crunch to your smoothie bowl. These tiny seeds are packed with protein, fibre, and a variety of essential minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc. They have a subtly sweet and nutty flavour, which pairs well with virtually any combination of smoothie bowl ingredients. Beyond their taste and nutritional benefits, their vibrant green colour will brighten your bowl, for an aesthetically pleasing and incredibly healthy topping.
Try these special variety Styrian hull-less pumpkin seeds for an easier eat
Topping 8: Bee Pollen
Bee pollen is a fantastic addition to your arsenal of smoothie bowl toppings. This natural byproduct of the beekeeping process is nutrient-rich, and filled with proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It has a mildly sweet yet floral taste that compliments a variety of fruits and other toppings. Prized for its potential health benefits, bee pollen may help to boost immunity and reduce inflammation. But remember, a little goes a long way; just a sprinkle of these golden granules is enough to give your smoothie bowl a nutritional and flavorful boost.
Our great-tasting raw Australian bee pollen
Basic Healthy Smoothie Bowl Recipe
More of a template than an exact recipe, this will help you get to grips with the basics and also act as a blueprint for endless creations of your own.
- Choose Your Base: Start by selecting your base ingredients. This could be a selection of your favourite fruits, like bananas, frozen berries, or mangoes. You will need some kind of liquid to help it along, but not as much as a traditional smoothie.
- Blend: Add your base ingredients to a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth, even consistency. The mixture should be thicker than a traditional smoothie, allowing it to hold up your toppings.
- Pour and Spread: Pour your smoothie mixture into a bowl and spread it out evenly.
- Garnish with Toppings: Now comes the fun part. Use an assortment of seeds, nuts, fruits, granola or even bee pollen. Try to include a range of colours and textures to make your bowl aesthetically pleasing.
- Serve Immediately: Smoothie bowls need to be enjoyed right away. Grab a spoon and dive in!
Smoothie Bowl Ideas
Tropical Bliss Mango Smoothie Bowl
Blitz a base of ripe banana, frozen pineapple, and mango powder and top with shredded coconut and chia seeds.
Black Sesame Smoothie Bowl
Start with a base of frozen bananas and a spoonful of black sesame seeds, blended to a creamy consistency. A dash of almond milk will make your base smoother and infuse a subtle nutty flavour. For the toppings, add a sprinkle of black and white sesame seeds and a drizzle of honey. Super simple and let that star ingredient shine.
Chocolate Lover’s Smoothie Bowl
Begin with a base of ripe banana and a heaping spoonful of nut butter. Add a dash of milk and 2 tablespoons of raw cacao powder and blend. Top with crunchy cacao nibs and a handful of fresh raspberries.
Berry Chia Smoothie Bowl
Make a base of blueberries and frozen banana with a splash of any milk. Top with a handful of granola, some more blueberries, and a generous sprinkle of chia seeds.
Cherry-Nut Smoothie Bowl
For the base, blend frozen banana, a handful of dried cherries, and a splash of milk. Top with a sprinkle of chopped almonds, a few more dried cherries, and a dollop of Greek yoghurt.
Detox Green Smoothie Bowl
For the base, blend a ripe banana, a chopped kiwi fruit, a handful of spinach leaves, a few kale leaves, and a splash of almond milk. Top with a generous amount of hemp seeds, and a few more slices of kiwi.
Autumn Pumpkin Smoothie Bowl
Start with a base of frozen bananas and a small pumpkin, peeled and cubed. Add a dash of almond milk for a smoother texture and blend until creamy. Stir in a spoonful of honey for a hint of natural sweetness. Sprinkle raw pumpkin seeds, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a dash of cinnamon.
Bee Pollen Breakfast Smoothie Bowl
Make a base of frozen banana, oats and oat milk. Drizzle with honey, top with Greek yoghurt, and a good scatter of bee pollen.
We have seen that from chocolate lovers to detox enthusiasts, there’s a bowl for everyone. Experiment with ideas for bases and toppings, mix and match ingredients as per your liking, and you’ll discover that breakfast can indeed be the most exciting meal of the day. Remember, the key to great breakfast smoothie bowls is using high-quality, fresh ingredients and finishing them with your favourite toppings.
Our top tip for the perfect smoothie bowl? Allow your frozen fruit like banana or pineapple to defrost slightly before blending. This will make it easier to blitz, and save your blender motor!
Explore our full range of superfood ingredients for your smoothie bowl.
This article was reproduced on this site with permission from operafoods.com.au the “Smoothie Bowl Topping Wholesalers”.
See original article:- Boost your Brekkie 8 Awesome Smoothie Bowl Toppings
Make the Perfect Healthy Smoothie: What to Include and Why
Smoothies are more than just a popular trend; they’re a fantastic way to pack a wealth of nutrition into a delicious, convenient meal. Perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or nutrient-packed snacks, a healthy smoothie can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary requirement.
Whether you’re a smoothie pro looking for new ideas, or you’re just beginning your journey into the world of blended meals, this guide is here to help. We’ll explore the key ingredients for a healthy smoothie, take a look at some of the benefits they offer, and share some ideas for smoothie combinations.
Blenders at the ready, it’s time to start making the perfect healthy smoothie!
The Key Ingredients for a Healthy Smoothie
Before we look at some specific ingredients, let’s quickly consider the anatomy of a smoothie because there is one very important component that is easy to overlook. That’s right; liquid. Without liquid, your smoothie is going nowhere.
What liquid is best for making a smoothie?
A smoothie doesn’t really need a lot of liquid. The liquid has two parts to play. It helps give the desired consistency, but it also helps keep things moving in the blender. If you have ever tried to blend something like frozen banana chunks in a personal blender just to have the blades spin and the motor burn, then you know exactly what we are talking about.
The best liquid for making a smoothie largely depends on your personal preference and nutritional goals. the main question is whether you do dairy or you don’t.
Water is a simple addition that can keep the flavours clean without the addition of extra calories (or nutrients).
Milk (including non-dairy versions like almond, soy, or oat milk) adds a creamy texture and can contribute additional protein and nutrients.
Coconut water is a refreshing choice that can help to hydrate and replenish electrolytes after a workout.
Fruit juice can add sweetness, acidity and an extra dimension of flavour as well as vitamins and minerals.
Remember, the key is to choose a liquid base that complements your other ingredients and aligns with your health objectives. Just be mindful of added sugars in some milk alternatives and fruit juices. Now we have the liquid part covered, let’s look at the other key ingredients in a healthy smoothie.
What are the best ingredients to put in a smoothie?
Fruits and berries
These are fundamentally the heart and soul of any good smoothie. They provide natural sweetness, vibrant colours, and a variety of textures. More importantly, they are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote a healthy body and mind. Whether fresh frozen, or powdered the possibilities are endless, allowing you to mix and match to create your perfect blend.
Vegetables
They may not be quite as appealing as fruit but they are loaded with fibre, which aids digestion, and are rich in vitamins and minerals. They also offer particular plant nutrients that you won’t find in fruit, and of course, contain less sugar. Leafy greens like spinach or kale are a popular choice, but don’t shy away from adding other veggies like cucumber, carrot, or even beets for a refreshing twist.
Proteins
Crucial for a balanced smoothie, proteins provide substantial satiety and aid muscle recovery, particularly after exercise. There are many ingredients you can add to a smoothie to boost the protein content. Here are just a few.
- Protein Powder: If you’re really looking to ramp up your protein intake, consider adding a scoop or two of protein powder. There are many options out there, including plant-based varieties like pea or hemp protein.
- Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt not only provides a hefty dose of protein but also contributes a creamy texture to your smoothie.
- Nut Butter: Whether it’s peanut, almond, or cashew, nut butter can add a delicious, protein-filled punch to your smoothie.
- Chia Seeds: These little seeds are not only a good source of protein but also packed with essential omega-3 fatty acids.
Healthy Fats
These are another vital component of a balanced smoothie. Here are some great ingredients you can add to your smoothie for a healthy fat boost. Many of them also include protein so you get two for the price of one, so to speak. Nuts and seeds are excellent examples of ingredients that provide a cross-spectrum of valuable nutrients. You may find our article on super seeds useful.
- Avocado: This creamy fruit is high in monounsaturated fats, which can help to reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
- Flaxseeds: As well as protein, flaxseeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
- Chia seeds: Chia seeds are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Hemp seeds: These little seeds are rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and they’re also a great plant-based protein source.
- Coconut oil: It’s high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that your body can absorb and use quickly.
- Almond butter: Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fats, and also provide a good dose of vitamin E. Choose an almond butter with no added sugars or oils for the healthiest option.
- Walnuts: Walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help to reduce inflammation. They’re also rich in antioxidants.
Powdered Superfoods for a Superfood Smoothie
Most of the ingredients we have already talked about can be considered superfoods in their own right. Yet as powdered superfoods become more and more available, they deserve a special mention. Not only can they provide a super nutritional boost to your smoothies, but they are easy to blend and have the added benefit of a longer shelf life than fresh produce. You can find out more in our guide to superfood powders.
Fruit powders
These can be used instead of or alongside fresh fruit. Use them to target specific nutrients, or to create interesting flavour combinations. Plus, they are super easy to use.
Explore our range of fruit powders
Greens powders
These are a really good way to add the nutritional benefits of vegetables, without altering the flavour profile of your smoothie too much. And not just greens, consider adding beetroot or carrot powders too.
Explore our range of vegetable powders
Protein powders
These got a mention before, but they are an excellent way to boost the protein power of your smoothie.
Explore our range of protein powders
Superfood powders
These include all of the above yet there are some other ingredients that can give you an extra boost, such as cacao or maca powder.
Here’s some other smoothie ingredients you may like
And finally, here’s a bunch of ideas (see what we did there) for healthy smoothies.
Some of our Favourite Healthy Breakfast Smoothies
When it comes to healthy breakfast smoothies you want something that will fill you up and keep you going throughout the morning, and possibly even well into the afternoon. Oats are great, as is an extra protein boost as well as some healthy fats.
Banana Coffee Kick-starter: A smoothie perfect for those who want an early morning energy boost. Blend bananas with a shot of espresso, a splash of almond milk, and a scoop of vanilla protein powder.
Blueberry Muffin Smoothie: Capturing the flavours of a blueberry muffin, this smoothie includes blueberries, oats, almond milk, and a dash of vanilla extract. Sweeten with a little honey if desired.
Carrot Cake Smoothie: Create this dessert-like smoothie with fresh carrots, banana, almond milk, a touch of cinnamon, and a spoonful of vanilla protein powder. Top with walnuts for a crunchy finish.
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Smoothie: For a hearty breakfast, blend oats, peanut butter, banana, and your choice of milk. This smoothie will keep you full and energized all morning.
Banana Oatmeal Smoothie: Ideal for a filling breakfast, this smoothie includes bananas, oats, and almond milk. A drizzle of honey will add a hint of sweetness.
Green Tea Smoothie: This smoothie combines the health benefits of green tea and spinach. Blend these with bananas and honey for a deliciously sweet and healthy drink.
More Banana Smoothie Ideas
Banana is the ideal base for any smoothie, with its sweet taste and creamy texture. There’s no wonder it is the most popular smoothie ingredient out there.
Tropical Banana Smoothie: Transport yourself to the tropics with this blend of banana, pineapple, and coconut milk. Add a squeeze of lime for a tangy twist.
Cinnamon Banana Smoothie: This smoothie is like a drinkable banana bread. Blend bananas with a touch of cinnamon, a dash of vanilla extract, and almond milk.
Banana Chocolate Smoothie: A healthy yet indulgent option, blend bananas with cacao powder and almond milk. Add a scoop of chocolate protein powder for extra protein.
More Green Smoothie Ideas
There’s no need to be scared of a green smoothie. When combined with clever ingredients, you won’t encounter the dreaded green sludge.
Green Goddess Smoothie: This smoothie is packed with nutrients from avocado, spinach, green apple, and almond milk. Sprinkle with chia seeds for a boost of fibre.
Zesty Green Smoothie: Blend lime, spinach, cucumber, and coconut water for a refreshing and zesty green smoothie that’s perfect for summer.
Minty Fresh Green Smoothie: Blend spinach, mint leaves, green apple, and almond milk for a refreshingly minty green smoothie. Add a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.
More Peanut Butter Smoothie Ideas
Everybody loves peanut butter but don’t forget you can switch out any nut butter you like.
PB&J Smoothie: For a twist on a classic, blend together strawberries (or any of your favourite berries), peanut butter, and milk.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie: For a dessert-like option, blend natural peanut butter, banana, cacao powder, and your choice of milk.
Peanut Butter Berry Smoothie: Blend your favourite mixed berries, natural peanut butter, and almond milk for a fruity and nutty delight.
There you have it, an array of smoothie ideas that are as delicious as they are nutritious. Whether you’re a fan of fruity flavours, a green machine, or a peanut butter lover, there’s sure to be a smoothie for you. A healthy breakfast smoothie will set you up for the day, but smoothies are a usual addition to your nutritional arsenal any time of day.
Don’t forget to explore our full range of smoothie ingredients, available to order online right now. There’s even a bulk buy option for some great savings.
This article was reproduced on this site with permission from operafoods.com.au the “Smoothie Nutrients & Ingredients Suppliers”.
See original article:- Make the Perfect Healthy Smoothie: What to Include and Why
Maca Powder: The Superfood You Need in Your Diet
Maca Powder: The Superfood You Need in Your Diet
Maca powder has been the superfood world’s best-kept secret for quite some time now, yet the popularity of this powerful little root continues to grow. If you are looking to elevate your health and wellness journey, this is certainly something that you may want to consider incorporating into your daily diet. Maca has an impressive nutritional profile and may offer some pretty amazing health benefits, from boosting energy levels to balancing hormones.
What is Maca Powder?
Maca powder comes from the maca root, a plant native to Peru that grows in the harsh climates of the Andes mountains. The root, which comes in a variety of colours including white, red, and black, is dried and ground into a fine powder. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to its array of health benefits, and thanks to its host of beneficial nutrients and powerful properties is now widely used as a nutritional supplement.
The unique taste of maca powder can be described as earthy and nutty, with a slight hint of butterscotch. It is not overly sweet but has a somewhat malty flavour which may take some getting used to for those new to its use. It has a rich, distinctive taste that goes well with some ingredients, but not with others.
The Nutritional Profile of Maca Powder
Maca root is a strong, resilient plant that survives in the harshest of environments and as such has built up powerful biological defences. This protective armour translates into a whole host of nutritional compounds.
Rich in nutrients, and brimming with vital vitamins and minerals, maca is a valuable source of protein, fibre, and essential fatty acids. It also boasts an impressive array of micronutrients. But as we shall see, the real power of maca lies within its unique plant compounds and their unusual properties.
A rich source of vitamins and minerals
Maca root powder is particularly notable for its high levels of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and aids in the body’s production of collagen. It also has good levels of vitamins B1 and B2, for energy metabolism, and vitamin E.
Iron, a significant mineral in maca powder, is vital for carrying oxygen from our lungs to the cells of our body. Potassium, key for nerve function and muscle health, and manganese, a trace mineral that aids in metabolism and bone development, also feature prominently in this potent powder.
Maca root is a particularly rich source of minerals and also contains calcium, iodine, magnesium, zinc and selenium.
A source of protein and fibre
The protein and fibre content in maca powder have crucial roles to play in our overall health and well-being.
A noteworthy source of protein, maca powder provides essential amino acids which are crucial for muscle growth and repair, as well as supporting a healthy immune system. Fibre digestive health.
Maca powder is also rich in fibre, which not only supports digestive health but also helps to maintain a feeling of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.
Powerful antioxidant properties
Maca powder has powerful antioxidant properties, which help the body neutralize a range of harmful molecules called free radicals. Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by these free radicals.
The high levels of Vitamin C and manganese in maca root contribute significantly to its antioxidant profile. These antioxidants help to strengthen the body’s natural defences and prevent oxidative stress, which is linked to numerous diseases including heart disease and cancer.
What’s more, the antioxidant profile of maca is believed to boost cognitive health, aiding in memory and learning functions.
The Health Benefits of Maca
But it is the surprising health benefits of maca powder that make this superfood so interesting. It has been shown to enhance energy and stamina, improve mental clarity and focus, and balance hormone levels. Traditionally used to increase fertility, the antioxidant properties of maca also make it a powerful ally for your immune system. And it does these things in a very special way.
Maca is adaptogenic
Maca root is one of the very few plants that act as an adaptogen. Understanding this is the key to understanding why it has such special supportive properties. Adaptogens help the body to balance stress and maintain equilibrium. Which is just astounding if you stop to think about it.
These adaptogenic properties come from unique plant compounds that support and nourish particular pathways through the brain and the endocrine system
Energy boosting properties
Maca powder is often hailed for its energy-boosting properties. And thanks to its adaptogenic properties it does this without acting as a stimulant. By supporting the adrenal glands, it helps to enhance overall energy, stamina, and endurance. It is also packed with B vitamins, which are essential for the body’s energy production process. Iron is also necessary for enhancing physical stamina and reducing fatigue as it aids in red blood cell production, transporting oxygen throughout the body.
More than just a physical energy booster, maca is also believed to improve mental energy, resulting in increased focus, clearer cognitive functions, and an overall uplift in mood. Thus, the inclusion of maca powder in your daily diet can provide a natural energy lift, supporting both physical and mental vitality.
Hormonal Balance
Maca’s unique ability to promote hormonal balance is of immense significance as hormones regulate just about everything that goes on in the body.
By nourishing the pituitary gland, maca root powder helps to facilitate balance within the entire endocrine system. This leads to increased regulation of hormones, enhanced fertility, improved mood, stabilization of menstrual cycles, and reduction of menopausal symptoms in women. For men, maca can help balance testosterone levels, contribute to prostate health, and boost libido. Therefore, adding maca to your regular diet can be a natural and holistic approach to maintaining hormonal balance.
Enhance memory and learning
Maca powder is thought to be a potent memory and learning enhancer. Its high antioxidant content assists in combating oxidative stress, which may be a significant contributor to neurodegenerative diseases. Studies have shown that the flavonoids present in maca are linked to improved cognitive functions, including memory and learning.
Mood enhancer
The mood-enhancing properties of maca root may be down to a cumulation of its many properties, rather than a single source. The endocrine system has a huge role to play in regulating mood. When in balance, it can better manage stress, leading to improved overall emotional health. When we have more energy, we instantly feel more alive. A body that functions is a joy to be in, rather than a sluggish system that drags us down and holds us back.
How to Use Maca Powder
Adding maca powder to your diet is quite simple and can be done in several different ways. The flavour of maca works best with creamy bases. Nuts and seeds work well, and fruits such as dates and bananas.
- Smoothies: Blend 1-2 teaspoons of maca powder into your favourite smoothie recipes.
- Baking: Add to your baked goods for a nutritious boost. Use it in bread, muffins, cookies or pancakes, substituting a portion of the flour with a small amount of maca powder.
- Porridge or Cereal: You can stir in a teaspoon into your morning porridge or cereal.
- Tea or Coffee: Add a teaspoon of powder to your tea or coffee.
Start with a small amount (1/2 to 1 teaspoon) and gradually increase to up to a tablespoon per day over a few weeks, as per your requirements. If you are pregnant or have a medical condition, please consult with your healthcare provider before adding Maca Powder to your diet.
Precautions and possible side effects of consuming maca powder
While maca is generally considered safe for most people, it’s important to take certain precautions when incorporating it into your diet. If you have a history of thyroid problems, you should proceed with caution. It may be suitable for those with an underactive thyroid but should be avoided by those with an overactive thyroid due to its iodine content. Due to its effect on hormones, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with their healthcare provider before using maca.
In terms of side effects, some individuals may experience digestive issues, such as bloating and gas, especially when first introducing maca into their diet. It’s also worth noting that due to its energizing effects, maca may make it harder for some people to fall asleep if consumed later in the day.
As we mentioned earlier it is recommended to start with a small quantity and gradually increase the intake.
As we have seen, maca powder certainly seems to hold great potential for bolstering health and promoting overall well-being. Its impressive nutritional profile, inclusive of vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids, equips it with the ability to boost energy, enhance stamina, and promote mental clarity. Something we are all looking for, right? A versatile superfood that can be used in so many ways, it couldn’t be easier to boost the nutritional value of your food.
Enjoyed this article? Read more about how you can harness the potential power of superfoods in your diet.
Not entirely clear on the role superfoods can play in your achieving your nutritional goals? Then perhaps begin with this detailed guide to superfoods.
Explore our range of versatile store cupboard superfoods today.
This article was reproduced on this site with permission from operafoods.com.au the “Home delivery suppliers of Superfoods for Granola & Acai Bowls”.
See original article:- Maca Powder: The Superfood You Need in Your Diet
Superfood Seeds are Super Healthy
Superfood seeds may be small but they are certainly mighty and their importance in a healthy diet should not be overlooked. Not only highly nutritious, healthy seeds are exceptionally versatile and can bring extra interest to almost any food you can think of. Lets take a look at just why seeds are so nutritious, and then explore some popular varieties in detail.
The benefits of healthy seeds
Seeds contain everything needed to grow a entire plant. For this reason they are highly concentrated sources of nutrition. Although each variety of seed has its own particular nutritional strength, they do all fit into a general profile.
- Seeds are good sources of (often complete) protein.
- Seeds are full of fibre, both soluble and insoluble.
- Seeds are good sources of healthy fats and essential fatty acids, particularly omega 3.
- Seeds are good sources of protective antioxidants
- Seeds have an excellent mineral profile
- Seeds are packed with healthy vitamins such as B and E vitamins.
As part of a healthy balanced diet seeds can help you to maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of heart disease, and help to regulate blood sugar levels.
Eat as wide a variety of healthy seeds as possible in order to maximise their nutritional benefits.
Take a look at our detailed guide to superfoods for more information on boosting your nutritional health with powerful foods.
What superfood seeds should I include in my healthy diet?
Chia seeds
These tiny little seeds are the kings of the super seed world. They are packed with omega-3 which can help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Full of fibre, both soluble and insoluble, they are great for stabilising blood sugar levels as well as maintaining digestive health. Chia also has an impressive mineral profile, particularly calcium and magnesium, and comes with a good supply of antioxidant plant chemicals too.
But chia’s super power is it’s ability to absorb up to 8 times their weight in water. Not only does this help to keep us fuller for longer, but involves some truly amazing properties too. Mucilage is only found in a comparatively few plants (okra is one of them which explains why it can be slimy) and it helps them to retain water. So not only is chia a great thickening agent but the mucilage itself is a really beneficial form of soluble fibre that supports the health of our digestive tract. Leave the seeds to soak in water for around 15 minutes and the seeds swell, surrounding themselves with a jelly like layer.
Chia has a neutral flavour that means it goes well with just about anything. Add the seeds to a smoothie for a super thick shake (you will need to leave it to stand so the seeds can work their magic) or mix with cocoa and yoghurt for a chia chocolate pudding (again, you will need to leave it aside to thicken). Even without making use of their gelling properties, chia seeds are great simply sprinkled over porridge or cereal for a little extra crunch.
Our black chia seeds are 100% certified organic
Hemp seeds
Hemp seeds are know for their perfect balance of omega-3, -6, and -9 essential fatty acids. They are also a source of complete protein, containing all of the essential amino acids. This is just one of the reasons that they are valued so highly as a plant based protein powder.
Hemp seeds are one of the few seeds that make a successful ‘seed milk’. Blitzed together with water they blend to a smooth liquid with creamy qualities that can be used in the same way as any plant milk.
An excellent source of fibre, hemp seeds also contain phytosterols (plant hormones) that can help promote hormonal balance. So they are an excellent food for PMS and menopausal symptoms.
Note that you won’t be able to sprout hemp seeds as they are sold deactivated.
Give your nutrition a boost with our hulled organic hemp seeds
Flax seeds
Flax seeds, also known as linseeds, are another of the major superfood seeds. Also known best for its balance of omega -3, -6, and -9, flax is possibly of most value in its ability to balance hormone levels, which is why you will find it in food products marketed for women. It does this through a particular group of antioxidant phytochemicals known as lignans.
Linseeds are a good source of protein, a well as both soluble and insoluble fibre. Like chia, flax is mucilaginous and therefore makes a great binder or thickener. This also makes it useful as a vegan egg substitute in baking. It does need to be ground in order to release its nutrients.
As well as helpful in balancing hormones, flax is also a rich source of vitamin E which is vital for healthy skin; something that can be problematic when hormones are out of whack. So a nice example of natures symmetry right there. The soluble fibre helps to lower LDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides in the blood as well as balance blood sugar levels.
Like most seeds, flax has a mild nutty flavour that becomes more pronounced when toasted.
Easy to use organic ground flaxseeds
Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds may not have the nutritional superpowers of some of the other seeds, but they do have some special qualities of their own. The plant hormones sesamin and sesamolin are shown to protect the liver from toxins and help to lower blood pressure. They are also a great source of vitamin E as well as very high in calcium. Sesame is also rich in a variety of minerals including zinc, magnesium, iron, phosphorus and selenium.
There is little nutritional difference between black and white sesame seeds and both are an excellent addition to your arsenal of ingredients. Both benefit from being slightly toasted in a dry frying pan, but be careful to watch them as they turn from toasty to burnt in a matter of milliseconds.
Pumpkin seeds
This is another seed that is lower down in the superfood status stakes yet is still an excellent source of nutrients and is of great culinary value. What pumpkin seeds may lack in superfood credentials (compared to say chia, or hemp) they more than make up for in texture, taste and flavour.
If linseeds can be considered as the women’s super seed, then pumpkin seeds might just be the seed for men. High in zinc, they are thought to be good for male fertility and the prevention of prostate problems. They are also a good source of magnesium and, like most seeds, are full of protein, fibre, and essential fatty acids.
Snack on our organically grown pumpkin seeds
Have you tried our organic LSA mix of linseeds, sunflower seeds and almond, with added probiotics? It is a great source of super convenient superfoods!
Explore our range of healthy seeds within the superfood section of our site.
This article was reproduced on this site with permission from operafoods.com.au the “Superfoods wholesalers”.
See original article:- Superfood Seeds are Super Healthy
How to Make your own Chocolate from Cacao Powder
Making your own chocolate from cacao may seem a little extreme, yet there are several compelling reasons to do so. The good news is that it is far easier than you might think, and whilst it may not quite match up to the shop-bought stuff it is still pretty good.
Why Make Homemade Chocolate?
For many of us (maybe most of us) chocolate is non-negotiable. A life without chocolate is simply unfathomable. Yet chocolate is widely available, so why go to the trouble of making your own, especially when the results may not be as silky smooth as the real deal?
The main reason for wanting to make your own chocolate is most likely the sugar content of the commercial stuff. Even dark chocolate contains sugar, which if you are on a completely sugar-free diet is a bit of a problem. Vegan chocolate is becoming more and more widely available, but sugar free?
And then there are all the other things that find their way into chocolate. The list of ingredients just seems to get longer and longer. It just makes sense to try and find a way to get your chocolate fix closer to home.
Different Types of Homemade Chocolate
Homemade chocolate all follows pretty much along the same lines, but your reasons for making it in the first place will dictate your eventual recipe. Most homemade chocolate recipes still contain sugar, albeit in a somewhat more natural form such as honey. If you want to go completely sugar free then the only way forward is to include milk powder. This tames the bitterness of the cocoa to a palatable degree. Anyone who says they like 100% raw chocolate with no sugar and no milk is possibly lying. If only to themselves.
Or you can keep the sugar, and omit the milk powder. Like we said; you can’t really do both. You could of course, try adding sugar AND milk powder.
Making Milk Chocolate from Cacao Powder
For us, the whole point was to be completely sugar free. With sugar, wheat, and all food additives off the menu it was a case of ‘well if you want to eat this thing, then you will have to make it yourself’.
We discovered the buffering effect of milk on the bitterness of cacao completely by accident. Our first sugar free chocolate fix was simply hot cocoa made with cacao and milk. Which was surprisingly good. Then, adding a spoonful or two of cacao to rice pudding made without sugar resulted in a creamy, deeply chocolatey, almost ganache like affair.
The only natural conclusion to this was ‘can we make milk chocolate with no sugar?’. The answer turned out to be yes.
How to Make your own Chocolate
Whilst you do not need any particularly special kit for making chocolate, there are a few items that you cannot do without. The first is a probe thermometer. These are really inexpensive and come in handy in all sorts of ways in the kitchen. You can make chocolate without one, but for the best results you need to follow as professional procedure as possible.
A stick blender. Commercial and professional bean to bar chocolatiers put their chocolate through a really fine grinder. The best way to approximate this is to use a handheld blender during the cooling process. Your chocolate will not be as silky smooth as the stuff you buy, but it will be closer than if you did not blend it at all.
Culinary grade cocoa butter. This usually comes as buttons, that look like large white chocolate buttons.
Some ground spices help balance the bitterness. Vanilla powder, ground cinnamon, and ground cardamom.
Chocolate moulds, although not necessary, do give you a nicer finish. We used plain bar silicone moulds.
The rest is simply a bowl over a saucepan of water, a silicone spatula, and plenty of patience. If you don’t use moulds, then you will need a baking tray and some baking parchment/greaseproof paper.
And of course, cacao powder.
Basic Recipe for Homemade Chocolate (sugar-free)
Whilst not exactly milk chocolate, this does contain full fat milk powder instead of sugar.
250g cocoa butter
60g FULL FAT milk POWDER
1 tsp vanilla powder
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- Measure out all of your ingredients, and make sure your working space is clear of clutter.
- Set out 6 chocolate moulds on a baking sheet, or place a generous sheet of baking parchment on a baking tray. Make sure you have space to put the tray into the fridge, on a level surface.
- Have your stick blender plugged in and ready to go, and the digital thermometer ready.
- Wear an apron!
- Find a suitably sized mixing bowl and a saucepan that it will sit snugly over. You need enough water to cover the bottom of the pan, but not touch the bottom of the bowl.
- Sit this over a low heat and bring the water to a gentle simmer.
- Add your cocoa butter to the bowl and slowly melt it to 40C. You may want to take it off the heat when it reaches about 35C and let the rest melt in the residual heat. Once melted, you want that cocoa butter at 40C – 45C.
- Remove the bowl from the pan, and place on a stable surface where you are comfortable standing. This process while take a while.
- Add the rest of your ingredients and stir to combine.
- Now, you are going to cool that mixture down to 28C. It could take 30 minutes so you really need to be patient.
- Use the stick blender for as long as you can during this process. It can be noisy, and the motor can get hot, so alternate bursts of blending with bursts of stirring with the wooden spatula. You can get away with brief periods of not stirring, but it is the cooling and the stirring that creates the tempering of the chocolate.
- Once you reach 28C, pour the liquid chocolate into the moulds or onto the baking tray.
- Transfer to the fridge to set.
- The chocolate will set quite quickly, but keep it in the fridge for a few hours. You will find that the texture changes over time, and also depending where you store it.
- Either store the bars as they are, or break up your sheet of chocolate. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge or in the cupboard. You may want to experiment with both, to see what works best for you and your kitchen.
Tweaking your chocolate recipe
Once you have made your first batch of chocolate you are ready to evaluate how it went. A grainy texture cannot be avoided, but hopefully with the blender and the proper tempering process it was kept to a minimum.
How did you find the taste? Was it too bitter? Did the milk powder bring in a softer taste? Do you think you would rather add a little sweetness?
Homemade Vegan Dark Chocolate
Following exactly the same procedure above you can make a darker, yet sweeter, dairy-free version. Simply omit the milk powder, and replace the cacao with 125g of our organic drinking cacao, which is made with pure organic cacao and organic coconut sugar.
Have you explored our range of superfoods for boosting your smoothies, shakes and healthy snacks?
This article was reproduced on this site with permission from operafoods.com.au the “Healthy ingredients Suppliers”.
See original article:- How to Make your own Chocolate from Cacao Powder
Vegetable Powder – Going Beyond Greens
Vegetable powder is often overlooked in the search for superfood supplements, yet is a valuable addition to your superfood store cupboard. In the nutrition stakes, greens powder generally gets all the glory. Yet, whilst it may be true that green leafy veg are some of the most nutrient dense foods on the planet, the overall goal of nutrition is one of variety, and vegetable powder has a lot of good things to offer.
The power of veggie powder
Veggie powders are an excellent way to boost the nutrient content of your diet, especially if this is one area in which your diet is lacking. Despite increased nutritional knowledge, and the increase of interest in all things plant-based, many people do not get enough vegetables in their daily diet.
Vegetable powder is made of dehydrated vegetables that have been ground to a fine powder. They have a much longer shelf life than fresh produce, and retain their nutrient value for longer too. They take up less space and are also easy and convenient to use. Not only do they make a great addition to smoothies, but are also an excellent way of sneaking extra vegetable goodness into your cooking. Add to soups and stews, dips and dressings, or even cakes and breads.
Other than our popular greens powders we have two kinds of vegetable powder; beetroot, and carrot.
Nutrients in Greens
Green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and even broccoli, all share a basic nutritional profile although each does have it’s own special brand of magic.
These plants are all rich in the life essence chlorophyll and abundant in minerals; especially calcium, iron and sulphur. They are also excellent sources of vitamins C, and K, and are chock-full of anti inflammatory antioxidants.
Greens support bone health, provide major antioxidant support, help to lower cholesterol, and have anti-cancer properties.
Nutrients in Carrots
Carrots are well known for their starring role in promoting eye health. Rich in beta-carotene, as well as antioxidant lycopene and lutein, they help us to maintain good eyesight. But there is more to carrots than eye health.
High in the insoluble fibre pectin, that is also abundant in apples. It helps to regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down digestion and decreasing the uptake of sugars. It also decreases the absorption of cholesterol so is effective in helping to lower total cholesterol levels.
A good source of the mineral potassium, which is essential for the fluid balance within cells, carrots can also help to regulate blood pressure.
Carrots also contain silicon, for healthy skin and nails.
Nutrients in Beetroot
Beetroot contains a unique group of antioxidants known as betacyanins. Responsible for their deep purple colour, these protective pigments offer support to the liver, help to improve circulation, and purify the blood. Not just an old wives tale!
Along with iron, that feeds the red blood cells with oxygen, the antioxidants in beetroot detoxify the liver and purify the blood by promoting excretion of toxins.
Also rich in potassium, beetroot is highly effective at lowering blood pressure.
More Benefits of Vegetable Powders
Carrot powder and beetroot powder have another advantage over greens powder. They add sweetness. Not sugar-rush sweetness, but the sweet taste that is often needed to round out flavours and make food more palatable. Green smoothies aside, a spoonful of carrot powder will round out any residual bitterness in a tomato sauce way better than a pinch or two of sugar. Mix beetroot powder into cacao powder to add sweetness without sugar or sweeteners. This blend has tons of uses, but try dusting it over popcorn. It’s great!
Have you explored our range of store cupboard superfoods? Available to buy in bulk online now! Boost Nutrients vegetable powders are all made from 100% organic Australian grown produce.
This article was reproduced on this site with permission from Opera Foods the “Vegetable Powder Suppliers”.
See original article:- Vegetable Powder – Going Beyond Greens
What Does Protein Powder Do?
Protein powders are a nutritional supplement, once only favoured by bodybuilders and gym goers. But what does protein powder actually do? And why do so many people now include it as part of their daily regime?
Types of protein powder
Traditionally, protein powders were made from animal sources. They were made either from components of cows milk (whey or casein) or from egg white derivatives. Both of which are excellent sources of complete protein. Before they were taken up by the bodybuilding community, they would have been (and still are) widely used in hospital and healthcare settings as a nutritional supplement for those unable to eat, or that needed an extra boost.
Later arrivals on the scene were the plant-based protein powders. Also sources of complete protein, these are derived from plants such as peas, or hemp.
Why take protein powder?
Why take protein powder? Surely we can get protein from the food we eat?
For a start, protein powder can be pretty handy. It has a long shelf life, mixes into an easy to drink shake, and is fairly portable. It can also be added to cooking and baking for a bit of a protein boost.
But why would we need a protein boost in the first place?
Protein in the body
Most of us are well aware that the body needs protein. A vital component of bone, muscle, and skin, protein is crucial to all our life processes at the cellular level. Without the amino acids that are the building blocks of protein we can barely survive; let alone thrive.
There are 9 amino acids that we need to intake from food. Foods that contain all nine amino acids are known as complete proteins. Most animal sources of protein are complete, and we once believed that without these foods that our diet was somehow lacking. We now understand that we can obtain our full quota of amino acids from a range of food sources; including plants.
How much protein do we need?
Roughly speaking, between 10 to 35% of your calories should come from protein, depending on your level of activity. For the average diet of 2000kcal a day this is somewhere between 50 and 175g protein. The average, fairly sedentary adult generally aims for about 50g; a goal that is easily achievable on a diet that includes animal proteins. A bit of milk, an egg, plus a portion of fish or meat and you are pretty much there. On a plant based diet, still aiming for 50g, that looks like a cup of lentils, a cup of quinoa and several large handfuls of nuts. Also fairly doable.
But what if you need to aim higher? Long story short, it is a lot easier to maximise your protein intake with an animal based diet than it is with a plant based one. And what about those all essential amino acids? You need a really varied range of plant proteins to ensure an adequate intake.
In all likelihood, the surge in popularity of protein powders has come with increased interest (and uptake) of a plant-based diet.
Protein in plants
All plants contain protein in varying amounts, even the ones we don’t think of as protein foods. Yet only a handful are sources of complete protein; most are missing an amino acid or two. So not only is the challenge to get enough grams of protein, but also to get an adequate supply of all nine amino acids.
For many people this is not an issue an at all, and with a wide range of plant foods they cover these needs easily. But not everyone.
Why you might need to boost your protein on a plant based diet
- For active gym goers, to aid recovery and repair muscle fibre
- To replenish energy levels on the go
- To help stave off hunger and promote weight loss
- When you aren’t eating proper meals
Plant based protein powder
Plant based protein powder offers an efficient form of protein delivery. A single scoop offers about 25g of protein, with all nine essential amino acids. Blended up into a shake, with water or a non-dairy milk, it is possibly the simplest way to meet your protein needs.
The two most common types are made from isolated pea protein or hemp seed. Both are sources of complete protein, yet hemp has a whole host of extra nutritional benefits to offer.
Take a look at our hugely popular organic hemp protein powder.
Superfood powders are a convenient way to harness the exceptional nutritional power of superfoods. Discover just how superfood powders can help you to reach your nutritional goals, or if you need a nutrition primer our in depth article on superfoods has got you covered.
Take a look at our entire range of superfoods, available to buy online in bulk now, or head straight to our protein powders.
This article was reproduced on this site with permission from operafoods.com.au the “Superfoods Wholesales”.
See original article:- What Does Protein Powder Do?
Our top 10 superfoods list for your pantry
There are certain foods that top the superfoods list time and time again. And, whilst there is officially no such thing as a superfood, it cannot be denied that some foods certainly hold more weight than others in the nutrient density department.
A varied diet including plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables is the best way to maintain nutritional health, yet this can often be more an ideal than an actuality. Luckily many of the top superfoods already have dry goods status, and many others are available in powder form for easy and economical pantry storage.
Here’s our top 10 superfoods list for your pantry (in no particular order).
Acai
Antioxidant boosting acai has long been known as a beneficial beauty food. Chock full of anti-ageing vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin E, Beta Carotene, calcium and phosphorus, acai appears on most of the superfoods lists for skin. One of the only fruits to offer essential fatty acids, the sugars in acai are absorbed more slowly than with most fruits.
Acai is rich in antioxidant anthocyanins, known as the the beauty antioxidant for their power to boost flow to all the organs (including the skin).
Cacao
One of the best dietary sources of magnesium, cacao is rich in the minerals iron, zinc, and sulphur. One of the richest sources of antioxidants, this fibre rich seed is full of heart healthy flavonoids. Boasting an impressive array of amino acids, phytochemicals, and small amounts of caffeine, cacao is also the ideal energy booster.
Maca
One of the most powerful foods in nature, maca contains almost 60 phytochemicals alone. A good source of amino acids, fatty acids, and fibre, it is particularly rich in minerals potassium, calcium and phosphorus. Maca is an excellent source of plant sterols that can help to lower cholesterol levels.
But the true magic of maca lies in its power as an adaptogen. These rare properties allow maca to support adrenal function, restore hormonal balance, and regulate and reduce stress. A source of non-stimulating energy, we think maca really deserves its place on the superfoods list.
Berries
Not to be underestimated, berries are the most nutrient dense of all the fruits. Full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, each variety of berry has its own nutritional benefits. Raspberries are particularly rich in Vitamin A, calcium, magnesium and iron. Blueberries are a good source of potassium, whilst strawberries are rich in manganese. All of them are great sources of Vitamin C.
Try our Australian mixed berry fruit powder
Flax seed
Flaxseed, also known as linseed, is one of the best plant sources of omega 3 fatty acids. Good for reducing inflammation and an excellent source of fibre, the mucus forming properties of linseed help to control insulin, stabilise blood sugar and reduce appetite. Linseeds contain lignans, a particular form of plant estrogens that make them particularly important for women’s health as they can help to maintain bone health and protect against certain female cancers. An excellent source of Vitamin D and E.
Try our organic Australian flaxseed
Goji
Goji berries have been a longevity food in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. A complete source of protein, with all the essential amino acids, they are an excellent source of fibre. Rich in antioxidants, beta carotene, and Vitamin C, goji berries are also a good source of iron. Like maca, goji berries are also adaptogens; a rare nutritional benefit.
Try our goji berry fruit powder
Leafy greens
Despite their humble status, dark leafy greens are some of the best examples of nutrient density. Full of antioxidant benefits, greens are rich with the minerals calcium and iron, as well as vitamins A, C, and E. They also boast high levels of life giving chlorophyll.
Try our organic kale vegetable powder
Hemp seed
One of the first plants to be cultivated by man, and still one of the most eco-friendly crops, hemp offers a complete source of protein, providing all the essential amino acids. One of the best plant sources of fatty acids, hemp is a rich source of GLA (gamma linoleic acid). A type of omega-6, GLA has shown to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol. Hemp is also rich in the minerals magnesium, iron, zinc and potassium, as well as a good source of fibre and Vitamin E.
Try our hulled organic hemp seeds
Oats
Oats, despite not always being suitable for the gluten sensitive, have some amazing nutritional properties. Rich in the soluble fibre beta-glucan, they are one of the best foods for lowering LDL cholesterol. Soluble fibre also helps to prevent insulin spikes. Oats are also a rich source of magnesium that can help to regulate insulin levels.
Oats also contain a natural sedative that can help to treat anxiety, depression and insomnia.
Try our jumbo oats organic 5 grain porridge mix
Green Tea
Green tea contains many beneficial plant compounds. Full of antioxidant polyphenols, it is a particularly potent source of a cathechin called EGCG; a powerful anti inflammatory that can help fight diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even help to slow cognitive decline. The high chlorophyll content of green tea is both anti-ageing and detoxifying, whilst the natural energy boosting properties of caffeine are tempered by relaxing l-theanine for a more sustainable buzz.
Try our supreme organic matcha powder
Read our in depth primer on nutrition and superfoods. Or head straight over to explore our range of superfoods.
This article was reproduced on this site with permission from operafoods.com.au the “Superfoods Warehouse”.
See original article:- Our top 10 superfoods list for your pantry