The season for festivity, family, friends and food is around-the-corner, and the only thing that we can have control over is ‘foods.’ Holidays mean lots and lots of food and there’s no one telling you what to eat and what not to. Well, no one should, because there cannot be any bigger excuse than “it’s Thanksgiving, pal.”
However, what if we are able to share some easy-to-pull-off food tips while you enjoy your holiday meals? We believe that you can eat right during holiday season and still enjoy the time with your friends and family.
Proof your diet plan
You might not be in charge of what food will be served while others gobble down some lip-smacking delicacies; but you can –
- Eat close to your typical diet as possible. In case your meal is served later than your usual meal time, keep some nuts and dried berries, e.g. goldenberries handy to binge on until the food is served.
- Invited to a Thanksgiving party? Go and look if there is anything close to healthy foods available. For. Example – Swap rice with quinoa and enjoy your turkey.
Always outwit the buffet
You will be offered a large selection of delicious foods, but you will want to make a healthier choices. Here is how:
- Eat a very small amounts of food that you like the most and slowly walk away from the buffet area
- There must be vegetables available on the buffet table – start with them. It will edge off your appetite
- Avoid it completely or have small amounts of alcohol.
Try to fit in your favorites
- We don’t believe in putting any food on the wicked list. Rather, we suggest you to opt for foods you can’t resist yourself from eating and what you might not avail any other time of the year. While you do so, make sure you are being careful about the portion, because too much of butter-dipped chicken roast along with wine can add those extra pounds you lost over the span of 6 months.
Go for a morning walks at least, if not able to work out at the gym
It’s important for your body to get exercise and sweat a bit, especially during the holiday season as your plates are always full. It doesn’t seem quite possible for everybody to eat only what’s right, but you can eat close to what’s right.
Going out for a morning walk will work wonders during the well-worn holiday season. The endorphins in your brain will sense an accomplishment from squeezing a workout. So even if it’s a short one, it will allow you to take advantage of the mood-boosting benefits of a run.
We wish you a happy and healthy holiday season!
Yacon syrup might be less known to many, but this sweet-tasting syrup has been proven to help in your weight loss journey. It almost seems too good to be true, but fortunately, it is. Compared to most weight loss supplements, yacon syrup takes pride in its many human-based studies that actually back this claim up. This blog takes an objective look at this sugar substitute and the results in the studies behind it.
What is Yacon Syrup?
Yacon syrup is extracted from the yacon plant roots. The plant grows natively in the mountains of the Andes in South America. It has been used and eaten for many medicinal purposes for over a century in South America. People living in that region believe it to have second-to-none medicinal properties, resulting in a reduction of diabetes and aiding one’s digestive and kidney disorders. The fluid from the roots is extracted, filtered, and then evaporated in a chemical-free manufacturing process which resembles the process in which maple syrup is made.
Fructans – Fructooligosaccharides – Are an Active Ingredient in Yacon Syrup
Yacon syrup is one of the most recommended dietary sources of FOS (fructooligosaccharides), a kind of fructan. Fructans happen to be a category of dietary fiber which is soluble. The exact quantity might differ between different batches, however, yacon contains approximately 40-50% of fructans.
Yacon syrup also has certain digestive sugars and these include glucose and sucrose other than fructose. These sugars are responsible for the sweetness of the final product. The rest is a fiber called inulin and of course, fructooligosaccharides.
For a large part of this syrup is not digested, it typically has just a third of the caloric value of sugar, i.e. about 133 kcal per 0.220462 lb, and because of this very reason, it is considered as a low-calorie alternative to sugar. The fructans, in the end, get to the large intestine, where they feed the good bacteria in our digestive system. This is exactly where yacon syrup does its wonders. The good bacteria in our guts are incredibly critical for our health. Having good bacteria means associating with a lower risk of diabetes, improved immunity, and brain function to name a few. When these fructans are being digested by the good bacteria, they produce a short-chain acid that has robust anti-obesity effects.
Does yacon syrup really help with losing weight?
You can use yacon syrup for many of its various nutritional qualities. This is no ‘magic pill’ but consuming a healthy and balanced diet, and doing regular exercise is still key to losing weight, getting in shape, and improving your overall health. Also, it is to be noted that intake of yacon syrup must be restricted to 0.5 oz. before meals.
- Yacon syrup helps decrease BMI from 34 to 28 (meaning, from obese to overweight)
- It also increases stool frequency from 0.28 every day to 0.99, meaning an effective cure for constipation.
- Fasting insulin levels go down by 42%
- Insulin resistance, which is a big risk factor for heart disease and diabetes, was minimized by 67%.
In a nutshell, yacon syrup does have a dramatic improvement in our metabolic health and body weight.
Wondering if superfoods are really good for your health? Superfoods pack in more nutrients than your average food. They are mostly plant-based, but there are also some dairy and fish that are nutritionally dense and very good for your health. Hundreds and thousands of studies have shown that a healthy diet can lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. When you are eating nutritionally dense foods, your body will feel better and your good health will last longer.
Today, we will talk about 5 superfoods that are not only known for their superfood qualities but also ease-of-preparation.
Quinoa – Quinoa is a healthy alternative to rice and a grain that has grown in popularity because of its number of health benefits.
Benefits of quinoa
- It is a plant-based source of protein – 0.4 lb of quinoa provides 0.017 lb of protein. It also packs in a wide range of amino acids that support our healthy immune system activity and promotes muscle development.
- High fiber content – Quinoa is richer in fiber if compared to other alternative grains. It provides up to 0.011 lb of fiber in 0.4 lb of quinoa. This equals 15.42% of the recommended individual’s daily requirement, based on their gender and age.
- A source of antioxidants – It is also a brilliant source of antioxidants compared to other gluten-free foods. A majority of gluten-free products consist of rice, potato flour, and corn. These usually provide lesser nutrients than superfood ‘quinoa’ or other products using ‘quinoa.’
- Good source of iron – A single cup of quinoa provides 6.08 lb of iron, delivering up to 34.5% of the recommended daily intake for men and 15.33% for women.
How to use quinoa?
Quinoa is a great alternative to rice. You can simply boil it using milk or water and combine it with virtually anything to make it a healthy platter. It is easy to prepare and even easier to eat.
Cacao powder
Fiber in cacao powder encourages healthy digestion and lowers the symptoms and risks of digestive problems and irritable bowel syndrome.
Health benefits of cacao powder
- Reduced blood pressure – Cacao powder packs in flavonoids. These nutrients have been shown to reduce blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and improve overall blood flow to the heart and brain.
- Lower diabetes risk – The flavonoids in cacao helps boost insulin sensitivity, lowering the risk of diabetes.
- Reduce heart disease risk – cacao contains potassium, which has shown to lower the risk of heart disease by lowering stress on cells and body inflammation.
- Reduce inflammation – The flavonoids in cacao reduce inflammation in your body. Lower inflammation lessens the risk of diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and depression.
How to use cacao powder?
You can eat cacao powder with a variety of food items. Be it cookies or your favorite morning glass of fruit smoothie – 0.5 oz. of cacao powder blends in well with anything.
Yacon
Organic yacon syrup is a natural sweetener and it comes with tons of health benefits. Yacon contains good carbs called fructooligosaccharides (FOS). FOS are insoluble prebiotics or fibers that our bodies cannot digest. This may sound like a disadvantage, but it is the only reason why they are so good for us.
Health benefits of yacon
- Natural sweetener – This is a sweetener that you can use without the guilt. It has a number of health benefits. Yacon is a low glycemic natural sweetener that helps control blood sugar.
- Boost your immunity – Yacon syrup helps repopulate good bacteria in your gut, meaning it improves the absorption and digestion of nutrients.
- Lowers blood pressure – Yacon syrup has tons of potassium that help our blood vessels relax. When our blood vessels are relaxed, our entire cardiovascular system gets strained which ultimately does good to our health.
- Helps regulate blood sugar – The FOS in yacon prevents our bodies from soaking up bad sugars that derive from high-carbohydrate and processed foods.
How to use Yacon syrup?
The easiest way to eat yacon syrup is to stir in a teaspoon of it in a smoothie instead of honey or maple syrup.
Maca powder
This is a Peruvian plant grown in the Andes mountains. Maca is a cruciferous veggie, meaning it’s related to cabbage, kale, and broccoli.
Health benefits of maca
- Increased libido – The most popular benefit of maca powder is its potential to boost libido. A study conducted in 2010 has shown regular maca use to improve libido.
- Maca boosts energy and endurance – Some bodybuilders and athletes use maca powder as a supplement to boost energy and endurance, and there is evidence to support this claim.
- Increased fertility – Another prevalent use of maca powder is to improve fertility, especially in men.
- Improved mood – Maca has flavonoids that help improve mood while reducing anxiety. There was a study held on 14 post-menopausal women who had found that maca helps reduce depression and feelings of anxiety.
How to use maca?
Maca goes well with brownies and a hot cup of latte. You can also make a glass of chocolate maca smoothie, for quick consumption.
Goldenberries
Goldenberries are an orange-colored, bright fruit. This berry-kind has an impressive range of nutrients and holds a moderate number of calories, supplying 0.16 lb per cup. Most of these calories come from carbohydrates.
Health benefits of goldenberries
- Goldenberries pack in antioxidants – These berries are rich in plant compounds named antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect against and restore the damage caused by free radicals which are molecules liable for diseases and premature aging.
- Provides anti-inflammatory benefits – There are compounds in goldenberries called withanolides that have anti-inflammatory effects, which could protect against colon cancer.
- Boosts immunity – There have been many studies held in human cells that have shown to help regulate our immune system. It also has multiple polyphenols that block the secretion of certain inflammatory immune markers.
- Benefits of our bone health – These berries are rich in vitamin-k, which is a fat-soluble vitamin that improves bone metabolism.
How to use goldenberries?
Try goldenberries salad with your favorite spinach and this is a no brainer recipe.
Advanced Meal Preparation
We have been a constant witness to how a sedentary lifestyle is doing away with our physical health and mental health. We are mostly living on carbs and calories just because we cannot make time to prepare healthy foods for ourselves in advance.
Here are some advanced meal preparation ideas with our superfoods –
- Quinoa can be cooked in advance as well as stored in the refrigerator for quick reheating and consumption throughout the week. One of the quinoa recipes that can be prepped ahead of time is – Quinoa salad with zesty lime dressing.
- When we talk about cacao, ‘Fudgy Cacao Brownies’ are an ideal option to prep ahead of time and eat throughout the week. (Stay tuned for the recipe in our next blog post).
- Same goes with maca – ‘Brownie maca energy bars’ are easy to prep and store for quick consumption throughout the week.
- ‘Sweet yacon muffin’ is a delicious option for desert. You can prepare these muffins over the weekend and eat them when you are busy throughout the week.
Andean Star is a reputable and trusted manufacturer and supplier of Peruvian superfoods across the US. We offer you organic superfoods for the best price. You can order bundles or single products, we ensure the quality of our products and offer fast delivery services.
While most of us reach for heavy-filling and starchy foods as soon as the blues hit us hard, snacking on mood-lifting superfoods is going to keep you happier and healthier. We binge-on calories and carbs as soon as the winter hits the ground with its bags full of events. With family and friends coming over for lunch and supper the entire winter season, we hardly can keep tabs on our caloric intake, and at the end of the day, all we feel is sad and bloated. Reaching for comfort food is easy, but it gives you only momentary satisfaction. Winter blues are hard to resist, but if you have the right foods handy, you can still keep yourself from gaining those extra pounds around your waistline.
Festive season? Yeah, you can snack on some comfort and starchy foods and it won’t be even considered a crime. However, we suggest some of the superfoods that will not only help you maintain your weight during the festive season, but also improve your mood.
Swiss chard
It’s a leafy green rich in folic acid. Swiss chard is proven to be a mood-boosting food. According to a study conducted by the Hull York Medical School and the University of York, there is a connection between levels of folic acid and depression. You can always spice up your meal a little with healthy and scrumptious swiss chard along with onions.
Golden Berries
Goldenberries might sound like just a made up species of berries, but they are actually pretty good and a real thing. These super delicate golden tinge berries have many health benefits. The French call it ‘amour en cage’ meaning ‘love in a cage’ – they have given it a romantic gesture only to explain how much one can benefit from it emotionally as well as health-wise. Winter season is all about trying new things, hence this is an ideal time to incorporate this exotic fruit into your dietary plan. Although Golden Berries are a summer special, and you might not find this fresh fruit available in the market, Andean Star offers you the organic dried golden berries all year round. Golden Berries are low in fat and calories, while high in fiber, vitamin K/C, and beta-carotene. Just like blueberries, golden berries burst with antioxidants which further slowdown aging effects. Some studies also reveal that golden berries help boost your mood too. You can also incorporate Golden Berries into any salad.
Asparagus
This is known to be a versatile green vegetable that can be easily roasted in garlic and a little butter and be added to just any meal. Asparagus increases folic levels which are directly connected to depression. This veggie also contains Vitamin C which is also linked to easing down depression. Even if you eat 3-4 sticks of asparagus daily, it is considered to be effective enough.
Yacon syrup
When you ask about natural sweeteners, people can only tell you about sugar, monk fruit, molasses, maple syrup, stevia, and honey. However, there is another which rarely comes under the radar of natural sweeteners, not because it is not good enough, but because it is the best natural sweetener one can ever taste and believe to be true. Yacon syrup, for many of its health benefits, is considered a superfood. It provides soluble fibers which are shown to feed good bacteria in your gut that works to boost immunity, improve your mood, and lower inflammation. Yacon syrup is also popular with people in a weight loss journey.
Almonds
Almonds have always been a filling and easy-to-access & eat snack. They are simple nuts but packed with magnesium that is key to alleviating depression and maintaining good brain health. You can always prep a savory-sweet snack with a handful of almonds to go along with some dried fruits.
Maca
Maca is known to improve your mood for it contains flavonoids. Flavonoids are known for their psychological benefits. Maca can improve your mental health as well as your mood by lowering anxiety and depression, especially to alleviate menopausal symptoms.
Mussels
This very superfood belongs to the sea and is rich in Vitamin B12 – essential for healthy functioning of one’s nervous system and producing a compound named S-adenosylmethionine which happens to monitor our mood. For a mood-elevating and delicious meal, you can mix mussels with garlic butter – it’s a recipe you can never go wrong with. However, remember that mussels are rich in sodium, so eat in moderation.
Eggs
Who else knew that eggs count as a superfood!? Eggs help with your body’s ability to produce serotonin. When your body lacks serotonin, you are likely to get depressed easily. For kick-starting your day, you can always go for a simple piece toast and scrambled eggs.
Dark chocolate
Even if we don’t focus on its health benefits, it would still be safe to say that this is a real mood-booster. Who doesn’t like chocolate? Many of us do not even need to know its benefits before gobbling it down. Dark chocolates are filled with cocoa flavanols, which is a vital ingredient to lower stress levels.
We sometimes indulge in sweets when stressed out or depressed, because this provides some compfort. But it can quickly increase our blood sugar level, leading us to possibly developing many diseases. Always choose foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, foods that help pump up the probiotics, and always reach for whole grains (we recommend ‘Quinoa’).
How can we be helpful?
Andean Star manufactures and supplies the world with a wealth of superfoods, including organic maca, yacon syrup, dried golden berries, quinoa, cacao powder, and more superfoods straight from the mountains of Peru. Having served thousands of customers across the U.S.A., we are considered one of the largest and trusted suppliers of organic superfoods in the US.
If you are one of those fitness freaks who ride high on the feel-good, post-workout mood, now is the time for you to reward your fitness with foods that help refuel. Eating after an exercise session is key to having good health while preventing muscle breakdown, restoring glycogen, and ensuring a speedy muscle recovery; however, you need to choose the right food though. Here we have rounded up a list of the superfoods you can consider eating after a strenuous workout session –
Eat bananas
Bananas are one of the most easily portable healthy snacks, which offer potassium and carbs. Potassium and carbs are post-workout, muscle-friendly nutrients. You can add one or two bananas to a whole grain pancake or toss them into a delicious yet healthy smoothie. You can also mash them over a toast and eat with peanut butter.
Eat organic quinoa
This may be a tiny grain but packed in healthy plant-based protein and carbs. These two micronutrients work with your body for an expedited post-workout recovery. If you are a too-busy-to-cook and eat person, you can always plan ahead and buy some organic quinoa to stock for the whole week or a month.
Add organic dried golden berries to your diet
Golden berries are orange-colored, bright fruits and are related to tomatillo. Golden Berries, just like tomatillos, come wrapped in papery husk known as calyx, which needs to be removed before eating. Golden berries are also referred to as Peruvian groundcherry, Inca berry and cape gooseberry. Health benefits of organic dried golden berries include – They are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and they often prove to boost our immunity. Try making Chocolate Goldenberry Fruit and Nut Bars someday.
Eat eggs
Eggs are the largest storehouse of bioavailable protein, which helps restore and boost our muscle storage after a strenuous workout session. Eggs are easy to cook and delicious to eat. Pair them with almost anything and you are good to go. In case you are too busy to shop ahead, order online while you are at work and they will be delivered right at your doorsteps before you will even know about it.
Add Yacon Syrup to your post-workout diet
No, Yacon Syrup won’t add to your weight gain. It has Fructooligosaccharides that effectively functions as fermentable and soluble fibers that could only benefit your health. Yacon Syrup packs high in potassium and antioxidants. Besides, it is effective against constipation and often proves successful in lowering the blood sugar levels. Add this to your smoothie or pancakes instead of honey.
Eat chicken
The protein that chicken brings to your body is easily digestible, hence it is good to be added to your daily post-workout diet. Have it grilled, roasted, or boiled with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper – chicken provides your body just enough protein. Besides, you can toss it into a salad, lettuce wrap, or even go for slow-cooker recipes. You won’t need ample time to prepare it. You can even prep a chicken meal while doing other house chores. It doesn’t require you to stand next to it.
Eat chickpeas
Chickpeas pack in fiber and eating them before workout might cause digestive distress, however, if you eat them after exercise, they help replenish your blood sugar levels. Chickpeas are considered one of the most recommended superfoods for post-workout diet. They are a good source of carbs and plant-based protein. You can try Hummus Trio this weekend after your Sunday workout session. It’s tasty as well as healthy.
Yogurt
Yogurt provides you portable calcium and protein – two nutrients that help expedite your post-workout recovery. Today’s market has many types of yogurt to offer, but you should skip the flavored ones and pick the plain one. Season it with either maple syrup or honey to taste. You can also add yogurt to your smoothie instead of protein powder.
Add salmon to your post-workout diet
Salmon provides protein for your muscle recovery. It has healthy fats that help minimize joint inflammation and also keeps your cardiovascular system in its best form. Salmon is one of the quick-cooking foods, which can be a totally post-workout, weeknight-friendly dinner. Try pan-seared salmon with apple and kale salad this weekend.
Nuts
A handful of nuts is enough to provide your body the required amount of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Nuts keep your stomach full for longer and you will not feel the need to binge-eat. You can keep a small packet in your work bag and munch some while out for work or coming back home. There’s not much you need to do to eat nuts. Just buy some beforehand.
Oatmeal makes an ideal choice to be added to your post-workout diet
After exercise is the best time to enjoy a comforting yet healthy carb food like oatmeal. Oatmeal happens to replenish your worn-out muscles. You can plan to cook up a batch ahead of time and just microwave and eat after you are done with the workout. Oats are simple grain that can be cooked in a flash. Even the busiest person in the world can make time to prep himself a bowl of oats.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are the most popular amongst nutritionists, dieticians, and fitness coaches, because they have fiber, carbs, and potassium to help in the post-workout recovery process. They are not only delicious but also versatile and to be dressed up or down in several ways. Try sweet potato casserole this weekend. You can also invite some friends over it.
Conclusion
Besides these 10 superfood post-workout foods, you can also consider trying our organic maca powder and cacao powder to prep several recipes with. While maca powder is known to increase libido in men and women and fertility in men, cacao powder helps lower the blood pressure since it packs in flavonoids. Cacao powder is also recommended for reducing diabetes risk as flavonoids happen to increase insulin sensitivity.
Eat right, stay fit!
Just as promised, here we are with the health benefits of our bestselling products –
Give it a read!
Superfood has been gaining in popularity from the past few years, thanks to all the gym freaks, a variety of nutritionists, dieticians, and the growing diet brands – the importance of superfood have now reached people from all age groups. However, the only concern is – not all superfoods available are good as they claim. Because of the soaring demand for a superfood, today many offer unhealthy superfood supplements through aggressive marketing. You must not fall for any such claim.
Andean Star, i.e. we, deals in a range of organic superfood supplements. We are the manufacturer as well as the supplier of our products across the U.S.A. Having originally hailed from the mountains of Peru, we have always taken in the 100% satisfaction of our customers from all over the US.
The superfood market is growing around the world. With people taking interest in its health benefits, superfoods are evidently making to the top shelves of one in five families in the United States. We, being one of the fastest-growing and expanding superfood manufacturers and suppliers in the US, bring to you a range of organic superfood supplements. Our bestsellers include organic maca powder, cacao powder, and organic quinoa (available in a variety of colors).
Today, we will be narrowing down the health benefits of all three superfoods, so you can then decide for yourself.
Let’s start with –
Health Benefits Of Organic Quinoa
The existence of quinoa amongst mankind dates back to four thousand years ago when the Incas (of the Incan Empire – the largest empire in pre-Columbian America) came to realize that this seed is safe for human consumption. With centuries passing by, new research and studies taking place – the human race has been exposed to many more health benefits of quinoa, and today we are just going to discuss what they are –
- Quinoa packs in protein with all nine essential amino acids.
- It loads up 50% more fiber than most grains we consume. What fiber does is it relieves constipation and helps prevent heart disease as quinoa reduces diabetes and high BP. Moreover, fiber reduces glucose levels and cholesterol and might also lower the risk of developing any hemorrhoids.
- Quinoa packs in iron which helps keep your red blood cells functioning healthily and is also the basis of your hemoglobin making. Iron happens to carry oxygen between cells and also supply oxygen to the muscles for their contraction. Besides, iron boosts brain functioning because the brain takes 20% of your blood oxygen.
- Quinoa has lysine, which is mainly vital for your tissue’s growth and repair.
- Quinoa is magnesium-dense. Magnesium helps relax your blood vessels and so to reduce migraines. Magnesium also lowers Type 2 diabetes by encouraging healthy blood sugar control.
- Quinoa comes loaded with Riboflavin (B2). B2 boosts the energy metabolism within your muscle cells and brain and it popular for helping to create appropriate energy production in cells.
- Finally, quinoa is rich in manganese, which is an antioxidant and it prevents the damage of mitochondria at the time of energy production. Manganese also helps protect your red blood cells from free radicals.
Let’s proceed toward organic maca powder and its health benefits. While maca has already been gaining in popularity not just because of its range of health benefits, but also because of its easy incorporation into any recipe or diet plan. Maca can be incorporated into breakfast and dinner diet quite easily.
So, let’s hear about its benefits –
Maca has been a key part of Peruvian culture. It grows in the pristine altitude of the Andes Mountains in Peru. The healing powers of Maca have been a part of major discussions, scientific debates, researches, and studies. The studies have shown the wealth of health benefits maca has to offer us. Let’s find out!
- Maca boosts testosterone and fertility levels. As per a study published in 2002 in the Journal “Andrologia,” it was found that about 40% of men who took maca supplements for over three months reported a surge in virility between the eighth and twelfth weeks. While, on the other hand, the group which was on placebo reported no such progress on increase. Maca has been believed to boost sperm formation, mobility, and production in men.
- Maca boosts energy. Maca has a major positive impact on your mood, stamina, and energy levels and so it is widely recognized in sports and athletic fields.
- Takes care of prostate health. A majority of men suffer from prostatic hyperplasia – a common condition where the prostate gland gets enlarged. Many subsequent studies have shown that eating maca might help lower prostate enlargement. Maca is further believed to work on androgen receptors that are present in the prostate.
- Maca helps regulate our hormones too
- It also helps increase our learning power and memory retention. Maca has been commonly used by the natives of Peru to enhance cognitive ability in children.
- It is very good for our bone health. Maca packs in magnesium, calcium, silica, iron, and potassium that combined make your bones stronger and protect from common ailments.
Going forward, we will discuss the benefits of incorporating organic cacao powder into your daily diet.
In case you have never tried cacao before, make sure you can handle a taste that you might find a little bitter. When it comes to cacao powder, people mostly like to work their way up bit by bit increasing the percentage. With time, your palate will start adjusting with it.
Below are some of the easy-to-make food items that you can incorporate cacao powder into –
- Raw brownies
- Smoothies
- Baked goods
- Cacao bar
- Chocolate milk
- Hot chocolate
- Snack bars
What are the health benefits of organic cacao powder?
- Cacao is rich in more calcium than cow’s milk.
- It densely packs in iron, antioxidants, and magnesium.
- Consuming cacao might help with problems such as stress, depression, heart health, and blood pressure.
Andean Star has been serving the community for years now. With a growing reputation across the U.S.A. and enriching product shelves, we wish you experience the best products and health with us.
Fruits and vegetables are healthy for us – at least this much we all know. Fruits and vegetables are rich in minerals, vitamins – and very unique plant nutrients known as phytonutrients. Phytonutrients provide plants their distinctive characteristics, for example, their smell, vibrant color, and taste. According to some nutritional research reports, your body needs loads of phytonutrients from a diverse range of colorful vegetables and fruits.
Did you, however, know that most North Americans receive their phytonutrients from only a few sources, such as orange, strawberry, carrot, and tomato?
This is why it is a wise idea to shift your preferences and choices to green superfood supplements. Green superfood supplements will feed your body with a broad range of phytonutrients. The best quality organic green superfood supplements will help your body naturally increase its vitality and energy, balance the pH, and also provide antioxidants to protect it against free radical damage.
But, how do you ensure that the organic superfood supplements that you are shopping deliver all the benefits you seek? If you are buying from products lining store shelves, here are some of the factors you should consider before –
Research your items
The market is saturated with plenty of superfood supplements, with many claiming their products to be the best organic ones. But, are they telling you the truth? How can you be sure that the product you have bought is a 100% organic superfood product? There’s no way only if you do not try hard and figure a way out. Did you know that the Internet is a house of false and true information, but what you should do is differentiate the wrong information from the right one. And, the smartest way to do that is by researching the supplier throughout. The more you can learn about the supplier, the more sure you can be about the authenticity of their products. Look for unrealistic marketing gimmicks – such as “Start looking younger” or “Protection against cancer” and the like. Even the best quality organic superfood supplements do not work that way. To stay and live healthy doesn’t mean you will stop again or your cancer will disappear. They are to keep your body energized, give protection against some common seasonal diseases, take care of your hair health, skin health, and gut health.
Look if the products have enough effective ingredients
When you go shopping for organic superfood supplements, it’s not only the ingredients that you should keep an eye out for, also know the amount used in every product because it is important. Two different products may contain one common ingredient, but knowing the amount per serving will help you pick the right product.
If they provide enough phytonutrients
Since you are looking for green organic superfood supplements, your supplement must promise the right amount of phytonutrients per serving. Read the ingredients written in fine print on the back of the package carefully before buying. Know what you want, check what they are providing you – because it’s anyway your health and your money you are putting at stake.
Besides, the green organic superfood supplements, you can also consider organic instant Quinoa, Organic Lucuma Powder and Organic Fried Goldenberry, Organic Tricolor Quinoa, Organic Chia Seeds, and Organic Ancient Grain Blend (quinoa, kiwicha, and kanihua).
Stay tuned with Andean Star for our next blog on the health benefits of these aforementioned superfood products.
The kitchen is the most important and attractive part of a home and you sure want it to be in its best condition when you work there. Regardless of whether you are single or having a family, there are some kitchen necessities that you can’t overlook or ignore. You need to eat to survive, and in the process, you will want to ensure a well-maintained kitchen.
Vegetables, meat, fish, and other dry food items are an integral part of any kitchen and they need proper maintenance to remain fresh and good to eat. Thus, today, we will be discussing some lesser-known kitchen tricks and tips if you are looking forward to moving into your own house to live on your own, because Mom and Grammy cannot always be around.
Tupperware containers – how do you get rid of its odor?
While some use vinegar to get rid of that odor, we recommend something different – crumple up some newspapers and stuff them into each container. Keep it that way overnight. Next morning, throw away the newspapers and wash the containers thoroughly because newspapers aren’t clean. The odor will be gone by then.
Did you know you can put off bubbling over with a wooden spoon?
We often watch the milk boiling over and spill just like some other food items, such as boiling lentils. Sometimes, standing right next to the boiling pot doesn’t come easy because of many other house chores you handle at the same time. Here’s what you can do in such case – put a wooden spoon across the rim and wind up your other house chores without a worry. This trick will also settle the frothy bubbles for you. Clever!?
Got a stain on your stainless steel?
Put some rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball and wipe off the utensil with it. Your stainless steel will again be clean and shining as new.
Got dirty vegetables?
A fool-proof way to clean your vegetable in one go is by running them through the dishwasher. Yes, it works. However, be sure there is no soap or detergent powder in the machine. The machine will simply rinse all your dirty vegetables. And, you can then store them inside the refrigrator.
Microwave often gets that unbearable fishy stink– how do you get rid of that smell?
Here’s what Andean Star has got to suggest – soak your dishrag in some dish soap, leave it inside for about an hour. Then, wipe the walls of your microwave with it and your microwave will start smelling fresh once again. The fish smell that’s been plaguing you around for sometimes now, is now gone. Repeat the same trick the next time you microwave a fish.
Did you know filing the cookie sheet would have made your life easier than ever?
Using a proper filing system to keep the baking sheets in an orderly fashion will make your life much easier than before. What is better than not having to climb up to the top shelf of your cabinet to get the cookie baking sheets?
How do you soak up eggs?
If you drop a raw egg (although it is the most uncommon kitchen problem), sprinkle some salt right over the remnants. It will help soak up the egg whites. Yeah, science!
Got a dirty copper utensil?
Did you know copper utensils can be cleaned with ketchup? Put some ketchup on a cloth and wipe the utensil with it. Rinse the utensil in warm water and you’re good to use it again.
Got a gross dishwashing sponge?
Microwaving it for a few seconds will help it come clean again.
Cooking oil to your rescue
Making something that needs a sticky ingredient? You know what you can do to avoid all the mess that a sticky ingredient could potentially make in the process – coat the inside of the supposed container with cooking oil and save yourself the energy afterward while cleaning.
So, these have been some of the kitchen tricks and tips that you can use in your new home while helping your family grow happily and healthily.
Your body requires to be fueled, but only with the good foods, not the CRAP (Carbonated drinks/Refined carbohydrates/Added Sugar/Processed Foods) ones. However, we are living in an era where time is the only constraint, not the money or availability of the products. Nowadays, you can find any superfood in the supermarket near you, thanks to the popularity of superfoods amongst Generation Z.
Your body is the result of what you put in there – the CRAP foods have their own disadvantages that reflect later on as you age or consider going to the gym. They say it’s 80% diet and 20% workout, meaning unless you have righted your diet, no amount of strenuous workout will help you live a fit and healthy life.
Superfood supplements have gained in popularity lately because people find them easy to prepare and eat. In today’s blog, we will be discussing superfoods that you can eat before a workout, and those do not not require much of your time. Regardless of your taste preferences, you can always add these fuel-packed, magical superfoods to help your muscles recover soon after a strenuous weight lifting session. Moreover, the right foods help your metabolism function timely as well as in the right manner.
So, here’s a quick summary – The right food -> the right workout regimen -> good health and wellness.
Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds provide your body with a strong dose of protein, iron, magnesium, and zinc. They are good at strengthening your bone and muscular health. You can make roasted pumpkin seeds and store them for everyday consumption right before you leave for the gym. Roasted pumpkin seeds are healthy and crunchy. You can make both savory and sweet to satisfy your very unique tastebuds.
Avocados
Avocados are rich in oleic acid that helps your cellular repair itself and function to lessen inflammation in the body. Besides, avocados come with high levels of fiber and healthy fats what, according to some studies, keep you feel fuller for longer.
Quinoa
Quinoa happens to be one of the most popular, widely consumed superfoods in the world right now. It is rich in protein and one of the few plant foods containing enough amounts of all nine essential amino acids. Quinoa is also high in magnesium, B vitamins, calcium, potassium, fiber, E vitamin, phosphorus, and many other beneficial antioxidants. Here’re the health benefits of quinoa in a nutshell –
- It’s highly nutritious
- Contains the Plant Compounds Kaempferol and Quercetin
- Quinoa is richer in fiber than most grains.
- It is high in protein with all the essential amino acids
Salmon
Salmon makes an ideal superfood with omega-3 acids and protein. It can also be your go-to superfood for satiation and energy before you hit the gym.
Hemp seeds
These little guys are a powerhouse of protein and all the essential amino acids required by your body. By consuming hemp seeds, you will help your muscles build up. Added bonus? – they are also good for your immune system.
About us
Andean Star is a growing manufacturer and supplier of organic superfood supplements including quinoa, cacao/maca powder, organic fried goldenberries, yacon syrup, tara gum (the best quality food additive in the world), organic chia seeds, organic ancient grain blend (quinoa, kiwicha, and kanihua) and more.
Thus, if you have been looking for the right kind of foods that can boost your energy right before you hit the gym, you can stock up on these easily available superfoods bundles from our store.
Good nutrition is key to developing block for a healthy and well-functioning body. The foods you consume have the potential to feed and promote every cell in your body and are the only insurance policy to feel energized, perform at your best, and live longer.
Superfoods are the ones that have got five stars, for their special and additional ability to upkeep good health. Superfoods provide your body a whopping amount of fiber and antioxidants to improve the immune system and help battle against ailments such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and insulin sensitivity. They also keep you feeling good and looking great. The key is to incorporate different types of foods into your daily diet, followed by a combination of regular exercise and good night sleep, so you feel great and look super fresh for years to come.
What are organic superfood powders?
Consuming superfood powder is an effective way to get a balanced and nutritious meal on your way out to work. They are basically a blend of powdered food consisting of fruits and vegetables that create a high antioxidant and a nutrient-dense food product that will support your optimum health.
Conventional superfood vs organic superfood powders
Most conventional superfood powders aren’t gluten-free and they also contain fillers and additives. Some of them are stimulated with synthetic ingredients and to be spray dried they undergo a heating process which ultimately cuts down on their nutrient content.
Organic superfood powders are nutritionally way much superior to those of conventional ones as they come packed with lots and lots of organic vegetables and lush berries which themselves are loaded with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and vitamins to support good health while protecting it against common illnesses. Organic superfood powders also are probiotic for nutrient absorption and healthy digestion. Andean Star Superfoods powders are perfect for your entire family. They are rich in antioxidants, meaning they support better sports performance as well as healthy skin.
Benefits of organic superfood powders
Organic superfood powders are an ideal wholefood supplement that ensures 30% of your regular intake of vegetables and fruits to nourish your body. Now, when combined these powders with the protein it works effectively to order the appetite, encourage weight loss, and increase satiety. If you consider replacing a sweet snack, blend 1 serve of Andean Star organic Maca powder and make a delicious peanut butter maca cookie. It’s healthy, delicious, and wouldn’t make much difference in your weight loss diet plan. Neither do you have to lose the craving nor add to your weight.
Superfood boost immune functionality
Organic superfood powders ensure a strong dose of antioxidants from the purest whole foods that are easily absorbed by your body – and this even proves better when one’s immune system is compromised already. If your daily foods are nutrition deficient, it will result in the inability of your body to create antibodies, immune-related issues, and also cause the diminution of immune cells.
Organic superfood powders help energize your body
Organic superfood powders ensure a pleasant nutrient-loaded energy boost for an effective workout session. It also helps enhance your mental ability and attentiveness to focus both during and after your workout session.
Organic superfood powders support digestive health
Organic superfood powders support digestive health
Loaded with prebiotics, organic superfood powders happen to promote a healthy bowel function and balanced gut flora. Be sure you combine it with protein as researches show that in patients with Crohn’s disease, a high-quality protein supplement helps reduce the leaky gut and gut inflammation as well. It also helps restore and develop a healthy gut wall.
Organic Superfood powders are anti-aging
Healthy and refreshing skin starts from within and the foods you eat are the only key to nourish your it. Organic superfood powders are rich in antioxidants that ensure structure and strength for your skin. They are also crucial for firmness and elasticity of your skin.
Order a bundle of our reasonably priced organic superfood powders today!
Eating well needs not involve endless deprivation and calorie-counting. A dietitian at Cancer Wellness at Piedmont has shared some of the most consumed and delicious superfoods that offer hefty health benefits and can be easily added to your meal plan.
Superfoods are the foods that are accessible by everybody in their local grocery stores. They are surprisingly affordable and easy to cook. Superfoods come in more colors, meaning more nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins. Not just are superfoods full of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins, they also help improve your immune system, which, in turn, protect you against seasonal flu and cold. Stock up on a good combination of superfoods, so you can bring variety in your meals. More variety means more health benefits.
Here are some of the most popular, hence easily accessible and consumable superfoods that you can add to your day-to-day diet –
Apples – Apples are loaded with antioxidant quercetin, which are rich in fiber and lower in sugar compared to other fruits such as bananas and grapes.
Avocados – Avocados are loaded with calories than other vegetables and fruits. They are a brilliant source of healthy fats, hence top nutritionists and gym coaches recommend you use avocado while slathering a slice of bread. This way, you get all the benefits of antioxidants and no unnatural ingredients.
Capers – If you prefer olives or pickles, you will definitely like capers. Capers are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and are easy to get, plus affordable. You can try capers in tapenades, dishes, or salads prepared with lemon juice.
Cruciferous vegetables – People must eat cruciferous vegetables in some form every day. This group of vegetables usually include broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts as well as root vegetables. You can eat them roasted as well as raw.
Dark berries – for example – strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. These berries contain the highest amount of concentrated flavonoids. Consuming half a cup of either or mixed of these barriers 4 times a week is surely a healthy diet, plus habit. Berries are powerful breakfast foods anyone can have.
Dark greens, for example – kale, while other dark greens are collards, spinach, and Swiss chard. According to top nutritionists and doctors – if you have three cups of dark greens every week, you can make the most of their health beneficial properties. Greens have no carbs and calories, however, are loaded with minerals, fiber, and vitamins. All you need to do is sauté them a little with onions and olive oil or you can also try them in a salad.
Greek yogurt – Many people can’t finish a meal without their bowl of Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is known for containing more protein than regular yogurt and that is often used as a sour cream substitute and mayonnaise or to even prepare a creamy sauce.
Mushrooms – Mushrooms are a brilliant source of antioxidants and vitamins. They are also a good meat substitute.
Nuts and seeds – Nuts and seeds have anti-inflammatory properties, fiber, and antioxidants. You can pack some in your bag and eat intermittently at work as a healthy snack. They are so fulfilling that you will stay satiated for longer. Eat 40 unsalted pistachios for a mere 160 calories.
Quinoa – Quinoa makes an excellent substitute for rice. It is rich in protein and all nine essentials amino acids. It packs in fiber, fat-free and gluten-free. Its low glycemic index means it will not spike the blood sugar.
Did you know cooking quinoa in green tea water makes it more beneficial for your health? While it doesn’t bring any changes in the taste, it rather ramps up the nutrients and antioxidants. Consume half a cup 2-to-3 times per week as a main or side dish.
We are a largely trusted producer and supplier of organic quinoa from the mountains of Peru. When we tell you that you can pick our products with your eyes closed – we mean it 100%, because we strive to carry the highest quality organic superfood products to your doorsteps.
Good nutrition is key to building blocks for a supremely healthy body. Foods you consume have the potential to nourish your cells and are your nutritional insurance policy to feel energized, perform better and live longer.
Superfoods are often labeled as “five-star foods” for they have a special ability to help develop good health. They provide your body with whopping dollops of fiber and antioxidants to boost your immune system, so your body can fight ailments such as diabetes, obesity, insulin sensitivity, and cardiovascular disease, and also feel great and good. The goal is to add a variety of superfoods to your daily diet along with daily exercise and full night sleep, hence you will look great and feel super fantastic for years to come.
What is superfood powder?
Consuming superfood powder is a powerful way to provide your body nutrients and a balanced meal as you leave for work. Superfood powders are only fruits and vegetables in powder form which help create high antioxidant and nutrient-dense food products that support your optimum health.
Difference between organic superfoods and traditional superfood powder
Many traditional superfood powders happen to be gluten-free and yet containing fillers and additives. Most of these powders are spray-dried which involves heating process as well as stimulated with synthetic ingredients, eventually killing the nutritional content.
Organic superfood products are nutritionally much superior to the traditional ones as they are packed with tons of organic vegetable berries which are loaded with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and vitamins to protect your health against a variety of ailments. They also work as a potent prebiotic for nutrient absorption and healthy digestion. Andean Star Organic Superfood Powders are perfect for your whole family. They are high in antioxidants and they support better sports performance and skin. Organic superfoods are actually ‘perfect’ when paired with good sleep habits and workout.
Ingredients that are never supposed to be found in an organic superfood powder
Artificial sweeteners
Commonest artificial sweeteners typically used are xylitol, saccharin (954), or sucralose. Different harmful side effects could be caused by ingesting the aforementioned ingredients including migraines, headaches, gastric problems such as acid reflux and bloating.
Artificial flavors
Food sensitivities to additives could cause a range of illnesses including mood swings, headaches, and skin conditions.
Dextrins and fillers
All these ingredients typically increase glycemic load eventually contributing to your digestive disturbances. Most of these are processed with Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) corn, which could cause gastrointestinal distress in certain people. They are often incorporated into protein and superfood powders to bulk them out and save dollars for many producers.
Gluten
Food sensitivities to gluten could aide in the inflammation in some individuals, ultimately causing a variety of health issues including skin conditions, mood swings, headaches, and hormonal imbalances.
Benefits of organic superfood powders
They can help with your weight loss program (if you’re on any)
Organic superfood powders are the perfect supplements of wholefood that provide your body 30% of regular intake of vegetables and fruits, so you stay healthy. Mixed with protein it could work more effectively in regulating your appetite, encouraging weight loss, and increasing satiety. If you are considering replacing any of your meals, blend one serve of our organic maca powder with your evening cookies or morning smoothies and you’re good to seize the day.
Organic superfood powders help strengthen your immune system
They provide a high dose of antioxidants from whole foods which are easily absorbed by your body – especially better when your immunity has been compromised. If quality nutrient is deficient in your body, it could lead to immune cell depletion, disabling your body to make antibodies and resulting in immune-related problems.
Organic superfood powder energize your body
They provide scrumptious nutrient-loaded energy boost pre and post-workout. They also help enhance your mental awareness and ability to focus on both during and after training sessions.
Organic superfood powders support digestive health, gut health
Loaded with prebiotics, the organic superfood powder promotes healthy bowel movement and balanced gut flora. Be sure to mix with our Organic cacao powder as researches also reveal that Crohn’s disease patients need protein supplement for example WPI to help minimize leaky gut or gut inflammation. This as well helps build or restore a strong gut barrier.
They are anti-aging
Healthy skin begins from within and all meals are an opportunity to contribute to the process. Andean Star’s organic superfood powders are rich in antioxidants which provide structure and strength to your skin and are vital for firmness and elasticity. They will also help improve skin hydration.