«CACAO BEANS »
from the seed (nut) of a fruit of an Amazonian tree.
It isn’t chocolate, but the source of cocoa.

Properties: Magnesium, chromium, anandamide  (the endorphin our bodies produce after exercise), theobromine, high concentration of anti-oxidants, zinc, Vitamin C, and omega 6.
Claim: Supports the heart, brain, and digestive system; builds strong bones; balances blood sugar; increases immune system function.
How to enjoy: Can be eaten raw; mixed with other berries into smoothies or ice cream; or steeped into tea with other herbs.
Additional info: Look for raw beans; for optimum benefit they should not be roasted, heated, fermented, or commercially grown.

« CHIA »
is a seed from an herb originally from Mexico.
Also known as Salba. 

Properties: Omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, magnesium,
anti-oxidants, and fibre.
Claim: Easy to digest, and gluten free. May lower blood pressure and blood glucose.
How to enjoy: Add soaked seeds to porridge and pudding; grind for baking.
Additional info: Usually found in their raw state.

« GOJI BERRIES »
from Tibet and China. These tiny orangey red berries resemble cranberries when dried.

Properties: Complete protein source and high source of
beta-carotene and lots of Vitamin C.
Claim: Enhances immune system; supports eye sight; protects liver; improves circulation and reduces fever. 
How to enjoy: Can be eaten raw; consumed as juice or wine; steeped for tea or prepared as a tincture. Also may be cooked. 
Additional info: Almost never found in their fresh form, these delicate berries are dried and packaged.

« KEFIR »
Kefir is a liquid yogurt product.

Properties: High concentrates of calcium and probiotics (beneficial bacteria). 
Claim: Aids with digestion; supports good health and longevity. 
How to enjoy: Blend into smoothies; use on cereal instead of milk.
Additional info: Also available as cheese.

« HEMP »
is a plant from the cannabis family. 

Properties: Fatty acids, omega 3s & 6s (EFAs), minerals, and protein.
Claim: EFAs reduce risk of atherosclerosis; have anti-inflammatory properties.
How to enjoy: Blend with fruit and juices into a smoothie; oil can be used like other vegetable oils; flour can be used in baking. Usually packaged in their raw state and refrigerated. Sprouted seeds can be made into milk and leaves can be prepared as tea. 
Additional info: Sold as hemp oil, hemp flour, hemp milk, and hemp protein powder.

« MACA »
Maca is similar to turnip, native to Peru. 

Properties: Calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sulphur and iron, and trace minerals; Vitamins B1, B2, C and E, nearly 20 amino acids and 7 essential amino acids; rich source of sterols. The root contains more protein and fibre than a potato. 
Claim: Increases energy, endurance and strength; boosts immunity; improves memory; increases oxygen in the blood; improves the neurotransmitter function; increases libido. 
How to enjoy:  Mix in smoothies, teas, nut milks, coffee; add to desserts, jam, pudding, and juice. Flour can be used for baking. Fermentation produces a weak beer. Enjoy leaves in salad.
Additional info: Usually in powder form.

« KELP IS A SEAWEED » 

Properties: Potassium, iron, iodine, Vitamin B6, riboflavin, dietary fibre, and glutamic acid. 
Claim: Absorbs and helps eliminate radioactive elements and heavy metal contaminants from our bodies. 
How to enjoy: Add to drinks, smoothies, soups, and other liquids. Add to recipes to enhance flavours and tenderize fibrous foods. 
Additional info: In granules or powder form.

« ACAI BERRIES »  
from palm trees of Central and South
America.  

Properties: Rich in anti-oxidants and high in fibre. 
Claim: Boosts energy levels; improves digestion; promotes sleep; helps cleanse the body of toxins; supports healthy skin.  
How to enjoy: Blend into smoothies, juices, and mix with tapioca or granola. 
Additional info: Available as juice, health drinks, yogurt and sorbet.

« BEE POLLEN »  
is the seed of the flower blossom collected by bees.   

Properties: All the essential amino acids, protein, trace minerals such as zinc, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and copper.
Claim: Anti-aging properties; relieves insomnia; aids digestion; improves mood; strengthens brittle hair and nails; protects against allergies, including mild hay fever; erectile dysfunction.  
How to enjoy: Eat raw or sprinkle on cereal, muesli, porridge, or yogurt; stir into warm drinks or blend into smoothies and desserts. 
Additional info: Raw pollen stored cold is superior to processed pollen in capsule form.

H&L