Neuro Greens Superfood

This multicellular, spiral-growing, blue-green alga grows in freshwater lakes and has been eaten worldwide for centuries. It is dense in protein, magnesium, iron, vitamin A (as beta-carotene), vitamin B12, and GLA (gamma-linolenic acid, a non-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid). Its exceptionally diverse mix of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and other beneficial substances makes for a multiplier or “synergy” effect that amplifies its benefits as a food.

This single-cell, freshwater, green alga is especially popular in Asia. In a trial on immunity, chlorella boosted natural killer cell activity, and preliminary clinical data suggest it can benefit mood. A meta-analysis concluded chlorella promotes maintenance of cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar within normal range, and it has improved blood vessel tone and liver function.

Rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll, these two vegetables of the crucifer family are substantial contributors of potassium, chromium, vitamins C, K, folate, and fiber to the diet. They also contribute lutein and zeaxanthin, the two vitamin-like carotenoids essential for vision.

Rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll, these two vegetables of the crucifer family are substantial contributors of potassium, chromium, vitamins C, K, folate, and fiber to the diet. They also contribute lutein and zeaxanthin, the two vitamin-like carotenoids essential for vision.

Carrot root is rich in the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which are essential for vision and brain function. Since the body can’t make them, we must get them from our foods. Carrot also supplies beta-carotene, which the body can convert to vitamin A.

Strawberries are rich in polyphenol antioxidants, especially ellagitannins, and the anthocyanins that provide their distinctive color. In clinical trials, strawberries improved joint pain, blood antioxidant status, and promoted cholesterol levels already within the normal range.

This superfruit is one of the most concentrated sources of vitamin C in nature, with about 50-100 times more than an orange or lemon. Acerola also carries lutein and other carotenoids, anthocyanins, and flavonoids, making it an antioxidant marvel.

This fruit is particularly rich in ellagic acid, ellagitannins, and related polyphenols. It shows unique promise against pain. At least three of its active substances – ellagic acid, gallic acid, and a fatty acid called punicic acid – work in synergy, reinforcing each other’s pain blocking actions.

Blueberries have a variety of blue anthocyanins, along with other antioxidants. Daily consumption of blueberry concentrate has the potential to improve cognitive function, vision, circulatory health, blood sugar, and gut function.

Blackberries are rich in the anthocyanin cyanidin-3-glucoside, as well as in various well-researched flavonoids such as catechins, quercetin, and kaempferol. In a clinical trial, a blackberry concentrate promoted fat-burning and insulin sensitivity in overweight individuals.

Blackcurrants are extremely rich in anthocyanins and carry proanthocyanidin flavonoids. They promote healthy intraocular (eye) pressure. In a clinical trial, a single dose of blackcurrant juice improved alertness.

A traditional medicinal, beet root provides nitrate, which the body uses to produce nitric oxide, a messenger substance vital for circulatory health. It also contains betacynin, a unique purple anthocyanin, and various betalains that are powerful antioxidants. Beet is also uniquely equipped with trimethylglycine (TMG, betaine), a small molecule that contributes methyl groups into pathways that assist individuals with folate challenges.

This edible mushroom has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 1,000 years. Its unique terpene substances (hericenones and erinacines) stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) production in the brain. NGF supports acetylcholine circuits, which are required for focus, memory, and other cognitive functions. Lion’s Mane also is rich in beta-glucans, a special type of fiber that promotes healthy immunity.

This has been called “the dancing mushroom,” since finding it in the wild was cause for celebration. Animal studies and human case histories strongly suggest maitake beta-glucans promote healthy immunity. This mushroom also has alpha-glucans that additionally promote healthy immunity.

Reishi has been revered for over 2,000 years in Asia as “the mushroom of immortality.” In addition to beta-glucans, Reishi contains triterpenes. These chemical compounds can boost Nerve Growth Factor, which supports acetylcholine circuits, and Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor, which supports the maturation of new nerve cells and overall brain adaptability. Reishi has potential to improve human brain health even as it sustains immunity.

Shiitake has been a medicinal and food mushroom for over 2,000 years. It’s the source of lentinan, a beta-glucan particularly well studied for its immunity benefits. Shiitake can promote healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels already within normal range. It also contains the unique antioxidant ergothioneine, which likely plays a beneficial role in human health.

These bright red berries have been a superfood and medicine in Asia for at least 2,000 years. They contain both alpha- and beta-glucan polysaccharides. They also show immune system benefits.

This cold-water, brown seaweed is sustainably harvested off the Scottish Hebrides. It is a good source of minerals, especially potassium, calcium, and magnesium. It also contains ascophyllan, a unique sulfur-containing carbohydrate that has immune activity.

This soluble fiber has over 10,000 studies. It has consistently improved probiotic survival and proliferation in clinical trials, including the bifidobacteria which are the most abundant natural inhabitants of the healthy large intestine.

Apple fiber consists mainly of pectin. After an apple is consumed, some pectin reaches the colon, where bifido- and other friendly bacteria convert it to short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) that nourish the colon lining, liver, and other organs. SCFA can contribute as much as 7-8% of the body’s total energy requirements.

Flax is native to India and has been a superfood and medicinal for thousands of years. Once its oil has been removed, the variety of lignans, lignins, and other fibers that remain can be consumed to effectively increase the colon short-chain fatty acids production, plus increase the fecal bulk for better elimination.

Widely called “The Miracle Tree,” moringa has been used mainly in Asia and Africa as a food, spice, and medicine since at least 2,000 BC. As a nutrient-dense superfood, it is often employed to help correct malnourishment. Moringa’s leaves, the main part of the tree used as food, are especially rich in protein, vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, and manganese.

This superfood has been consumed in Asia as a beverage for at least 5,000 years. It contains catechin polyphenols, highly potent antioxidants. Recent meta-analyses concluded that drinking green tea promotes healthy cholesterol, triglyceride, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels already within their normal ranges.

This multicellular, spiral-growing, blue-green alga grows in freshwater lakes and has been eaten worldwide for centuries. It is dense in protein, magnesium, iron, vitamin A (as beta-carotene), vitamin B12, and GLA (gamma-linolenic acid, a non-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid). Its exceptionally diverse mix of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and other beneficial substances makes for a multiplier or “synergy” effect that amplifies its benefits as a food.

Raspberries are rich in ellagitannins, anthocyanins, and other polyphenol antioxidants. In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, single doses of raspberry polyphenols improved blood vessel function in healthy men.