Cashew: A Disease-Destroying, Bacteria-Blasting Super Nut

The bacteria responsible for acne, tooth decay, tuberculosis, pneumonia and leprosy have met their match with, of all things, the cashew nut. Containing anacardic chemicals that destroy gram-positive bacteria, this tasty seed of the cashew apple helps eradicate dangerous pathogens that cause a multitude of issues. Not only that, but cashews have also been shown to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, diabetes, weight gain and certain types of cancer.

Native to Brazil and grown worldwide in countries such as India, Mozambique, Tanzania and Nigeria, cashews are an outstanding source of copper, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese and zinc. However, sound harvesting and processing practices are crucial to avoid contamination with the caustic resin located within the cashew shell -- otherwise, the nut is unfit for consumption. This is the reason why cashew nuts are always sold pre-shelled.

Pumpkin—A Surprising Superfood That Lightens Depression, Subdues Inflammation and Discourages Kidney Stones

Pumpkin isn't just for pie or jack-o-lanterns. Full of vitamins, essential fatty acids, minerals and fiber -- this superfood should be consumed happily and often. The nutrients found in pumpkin prevent and alleviate conditions such as cancer, inflammation, kidney stones, depression, skin complaints and parasitic infections. Since autumn is the traditional time for pumpkin, the opportunity is ripe to take pleasure in all the bright, health-enhancing benefits of this humble vegetable.

Encourage Prosperity, Alleviate Famine And Heal The Environment With Hemp

Hemp. Just the word conjures images of the Drug Enforcement Administration and political battles. But industrial hemp is a far cry from marijuana and contains almost zero THC. An ancient crop, hemp has served humanity since 2000 BCE -- providing fibers for cloth and rope, building materials and paper. It's also an incredible source of food. Even the American founding fathers recognized the brilliance of hemp and cultivated it actively on their own land. Hemp is remarkably versatile and Eco-friendly with many modern applications for fuel, automobile fabrication, toxic waste removal and concrete manufacturing.

Superfood Kitchen Giveaway + Cacao Nibs

Superfood Kitchen is one of my all-time favorite cookbooks. Not only does it cover a wide range of ultra-healthy foods and how to use them in everyday life, but it's also beautifully photographed. The book is just plain gorgeous. And absolutely inspiring for seasoned superfooders and newbies alike. I cannot recommend it highly enough. Here's what Publishers Weekly has to say:

"Morris became interested in superfoods—“a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being”—while working with the superfood company Navitas Naturals. Despite ingredients that many people may be unfamiliar with, this book is surprisingly accessible. Morris explains exactly what superfood is, its many supposed benefits, how to incorporate superfoods into your diet, and how to shop. Included are sections titled “The Need for Nutrient Density” and “The New Superfood Pantry,” touting items like açai berry, an Amazonian berry containing concentrated antioxidants, healthy mono and polyunsaturated fats, as well as many vitamins and minerals; chai seed, similar to flaxseed, that the Aztecs, Incas and Mayans used for strength and stamina; and maca, a radish-like root that fights different stresses. Morris offers plant-based, nutrient-dense recipes of all kinds; breakfast bars—a lemon-coconut chocolate as well as one made with gogi berries (which have 18 amino acids); soups such as pumpkin, and kale, and black-eyed pea; and entrees like zucchini fettuccine with mega marinara, and pomegranate-glazed portobello steaks over lemony spinach. An ingredient resource guide takes the guesswork out of finding everything you need for these “simple recipes that can fuel an energetic lifestyle."'

DIY Spirulina Superfood Micro-Farm Can Prevent Starvation and Help you Survive Tough Times — Grow it Yourself

Create a micro-spirulina farm as an alternative to maintaining a full-fledged aquaponics garden and grow your own superfood to maintain good health, detox and provide nourishment during tough times. Economical and easy, growing spirulina is one of the best ways to ensure food security when times are rough. Exceptionally rich in vitamins, minerals and protein, spirulina can enhance the diet and even prevent starvation when food is in short supply.

One of Nature’s Most Powerful Plants

Prized by the ancient Aztecs and Mayans, spirulina has also been used throughout the world to fend off starvation when famine hits. As a complete protein, spirulina contains all eight essential amino acids in a form that is five times more easily digestible than meat or soy. Abundant in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, chlorophyll and beneficial fatty acids, spirulina is truly a wonder food. Not only is it exceptionally health enhancing, spirulina can also be grown easily at home for pennies on the dollar. Continue »

Thrive Short Order | Paleo Black Forest Breakfast Bars {Gluten-Free, Vegan, No-Bake}

I don't know about you, but I find most mornings in my household to be just short of a circus act. Between caring for a rambunctious three-year-old, working and tending to the nitty- gritty details of the home, sometimes I feel a sense of complete overwhelm - as I am sure many do. Yet, as with most things in life, daily chaos is also fertile ground for inspiration along with one of my all time favorite topics: chocolate.

Recently I was pondering the amazing health benefits of this delicious food and realized it could easily be transformed into a stellar breakfast meal. With a little creativity and plenty of superfood caliper additions, chocolate could be a near perfect beginning to any day for the reasons found here. Hemp seed adds protein, coconut flour a good dose of sugar balancing fiber and cherries are a powerhouse in their own right. The end result also had to be effortless in preparation and something that is grab and go. And since I need all the help I can get with clarity of thought in the morning, the bar absolutely had to support brain function in a serious way. Walnuts fit the bill nicely with an abundant dose of mind boosting omega-3 fats. Drop me a line and let me know if you give these a try.