Superfoods are like magic elixir because they contain so many powerful health benefits. What’s so amazing is that we are continually discovering new foods and their powerful potion-like ability to provide protection from destruction to our bodies. Take a look at some of this year’s hot new superfoods.

 
Chlorella is a green algae that grows in freshwater. There has been some early research indicating chlorella may have anticancer properties and help treat high blood pressure. Chlorella has also been found to help increase healthy gut bacteria for immune boosts, improves digestions and is a natural detoxifier.


Bee Pollenis the pollen brought to bee hives and collected from plants. As a nutritional supplement bee pollen has been touted to help pump up athletic performance, aid in weight loss and treat addiction.

 
Collagen is a structural protein that makes up so many parts of our body including bone, muscle, cartilage and skin. In fact, collagen is also what gives our skin its elasticity. Unfortunately, as we age the collagen in our body begins to deplete. Collagen powder can help to replenish your collagen stores which will help with better looking skin, heal the lining of the gut and aid in joint support. Try adding it into your morning green smoothie for a real beauty boost!

 
Moringa, a plant native to the Himalayan region, has been used for a whole slew of things, including amping up one’s libido, relieving joint pain and helping the immune system better fight off any invaders. Some research has indicated that moringa can help asthma and also increase breast milk production. You can eat both the leaves and pods of the moringa plant which taste like green peas—only sweeter!

 
Switchel, the revived now hipster drink, is made of apple cider vinegar, ginger and sweetener. This drink was popular amongst woodsmen in the 1800’s and has now become popular again due to its many proposed health benefits. For one, ginger has been widely used to ease upset stomachaches and also tame inflammation throughout the body. Apple cider vinegar is rich in potassium and magnesium—well-needed micronutrients. Take a swig, sip it slow or even use it as a mix in your cocktail!

 
Bone broth might sound unappetizing, but it’s probably not so different from your mom’s homemade chicken soup. Bone broth is essentially broth that has been simmered for a long time with some type of bone (be it chicken or beef). The long simmer helps breakdown the bone minerals, providing you with an extraordinary amount of protein and minerals such as glycine (a key component in the body’s detoxification process). Proline and gelatin, also abundant in bone broth, will help keep your skin aglow and flawless. You can slurp it as is or use it in sauces and stews!


About the Expert
Brooke Alpert, M.S., R.D., C.D.N., is a nationally recognized nutrition expert and author. She is the founder of B Nutritious, www.b-nutritious.com, and works with a variety of clients to meet their nutritional goals while working within their lifestyle. Her expertise and nutrition knowledge has lead her to be featured on national television regularly including, The Doctor Oz Show, The Today Show,Access Hollywood and more. Alpert is also a nutrition consultant and her clients range from an international hotel chain, beauty companies including Nivea, private schools, national chain gyms, corporate accounts and renowned weight loss programs.