The benefits of superfoods have been doing health and wellness circuits for many years. Even though we might think we know them all, some nutritious foods are being marketed as Superfoods but are not cut from the same cloth, e.g., overly processed or inferior quality. Functional Foods (classified as wholesome foods with scientific data proven to support health due to nutrient-dense, with magic ingredients aimed at protecting our skin and bodies from illness) have changed how we consume our daily dose of superfoods. These top functional superfoods aimed at various concerns can get incorporated into your daily diet along with an active lifestyle for optimal well-being.

>>> Ways To Add Functional Nutrition Into Your Life

Ashwagandha

With its many benefits, this simple herb has to be one of the finest gifts mother nature has bestowed on us. Rich in powerful antioxidants, iron and amino acids, it has been used for centuries to promote physical and mental health. As a natural adaptogen, it's been known to promote relaxation and help our bodies to cope with daily stress. With hormonal balancing support, anti-inflammatory, and sexual health benefits- its skincare benefits are just as enticing. This natural marvel helps boost the production of natural skin oils while promoting vital proteins such as moisturizing hyaluronan, strengthening collagen and elastin (which keeps the skin supple) and is famous for its anti-ageing and luminous effects.

Chlorella 

This super green whole food is packaged with vitamins, minerals, proteins, enzymes and antioxidants, which are super beneficial to your health. Known for boosting the immune system, supporting healthy digestion and reducing inflammation, Chlorella also reduces the oxidative stress of environmental triggers. It helps cell reproduction to regenerate the skin for a serious glow. It also binds to heavy metals within your system, detoxifying your body and skin for a breakout-free finish. 

Persian Saffron 

Persian Saffron is a fascinating herb that can be added directly in smoothies, food or even topically applied due to its benefits for skin healing. A bit goes a long way (just a pinch) with this fragrant spice famous for being one of the most expensive in the globe. Containing over 100 vitamin, mineral and antioxidant compounds (including three of the most powerful in the list), its long list of health and skin benefits has made this marvel very sought after for centuries in the culinary and functional wellness space. From relieving pain, reducing inflammation in the body to improving bone strength and nerve function, Persian saffron also has significant antibacterial and medicinal properties that boost the skin's healing process. It is perfect for reducing acne scarring and pigmentation. It also promotes anti-ageing skin by stimulating collagen production, thanks to being loaded with vitamin C that supports the skin, making this wonder a leading contender for obtaining a natural glow from within vibe.

Raw Cacao 

So you probably know Raw Cacao is a great addition when starting a Functional Nutritious journey to keep sugar cravings away. It also contains a "bliss molecule" called Anandamide that helps to enhance your mood and boost serotonin (our happy chemicals) to help balance mood swings. The benefits of adding this great source of healthy fats to your nutrition plans are endless. It supports your health and skin - increased blood flow flavinoids enhance cellular regeneration to give your skin a healthy glow. The power-balancing properties of magnesium will help your digestive health to improve and encourage better sleep patterns - Viola!

Spirulina

This nutrient-rich plant protein of the blue-green algae family is a powerful superfood praised for its many advantages over the years. The powder can be ingested for its rich antioxidants, pain relief and brain protection properties to boost your health. It focuses on removing toxins from the body and sustains a healthy gut. Its also an excellent addition to skincare products, with published studies within the beauty industry showing that Spirulina as an ingredient helps reduce swelling and accelerates healing, making it great for those struggling with Acne. It,s skincare properties have also been said to improve symptoms of eczema due to its anti-inflammatory and bacteria busting benefits. It is full of essential amino acids, vitamin B, iron and omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent free-radical fighter, ideal for anti-ageing.

>>> Maria’s superfood green smoothie recipe