Super-CAL-foodalistic!

Feeling peckish, but not really up for a full meal and don’t want to reach out for those unhealthy deep-fried chips? Fret not, as healthy snacking is something you can do, thanks to the plethora of superfoods that are available in the city. Whether it’s Indian superfoods like turmeric and coconut oil or Western ones like goji berries and chia seeds, these foods are quite a hit with the health-conscious folk.

Talking about superfoods, functional nutrition and lifestyle practitioner Simran Gosain reveals, “They’re low in calories, extremely nutrient-dense and have a very good impact on your health. For instance, Camu Camu is a superfood that’s high in Vitamin C — it’s available online.

Then there are also foods like maca, which are good for hormones, goji berries which are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants and mulberries which have high amounts of antioxidants. Even raw chocolate ie cacao powder is high in magnesium and helps improve your mood. You can just add it to your smoothie or make chocolate out of it.” As for our desi foods, turmeric and coconut are good options. “Coconuts are high in electrolytes and help maintain the balance of your blood. Also, coconut oil contains MCT, which helps with weight loss,” says Simran, who also mentions noni juice, ajwain and sunflower seeds as beneficial.

So, how should one go about snacking on these superfoods? “They can be eaten at any time of the day. I always look for a combination of fat-fibre-protein, as it helps with blood sugar balance. But what suits one person may not suit another, and one must remember that anything in limited quantities is fine,” states Simran.

Superfoods can be inculcated in a variety of ways into your cuisine. Food writer Gauravi Vinay, who’s popular on social media for her recipes that use healthy alternatives, is a huge fan of superfoods. “Makhana is my favourite snack. I eat it plain roasted or spicy — it’s low in calories and very filling. I also opt for coconut water. Indian superfoods are easily accessible and I also have a lot of options in Australia where I live,” says the Bengalurean, who’s currently getting a taste of Indian superfoods at home. Chia seeds are another go-to option for her. “I use them to make puddings. I made this new recipe two days ago using low GI chocolate and tried another one where I made a tender coconut chocolate pudding topped with Makhana granola,” she reveals.

Fitness coach and vascular radiologist Swetha Devaraj, who’s turned vegan, relies hugely on superfoods for her nutrition. “I take Chia seeds, which have helped me a lot in terms of endurance running and also pbenesyllium, which is a pre-biotic. I also try supergreens from Unived Sports which has foods like alfalfa, moringa, spirulina etc. I take these in the morning in the form of a smoothie or pudding with a fruit.  They’ve really helped me meet my protein requirements from plants, my energy levels have risen and my recovery has been great,” she reveals.