Everyone knows most Brazilians have perfect bodies. Yes, it's mostly generations and generations of amazing genes but it's also their lifestyle and certainly their diet. Nowadays in America, there seem to be many trends promoting foods that are all-natural, supporting local companies, non-GMO, gluten-free, grass-fed and so on, that Brazilians – as well as many other cultures, just not ours – have always followed. We are not sure what caused us all to ignore the answer which was right in front of us, but here we are reminding ourselves and you that these superfoods exist, and not only are they extremely healthy and free of any dangerous chemicals, they are also plentiful and at our disposal. Time to start that Brazilian diet!
Cupuacu
Cupuacu, the so-called "pharmacy in a fruit" grows in a tropical rainforest tree much like that of the cacao. Commonly found all throughout the Amazon basin, this miracle fruit is grown in huge quantities in the jungles of Colombia, Bolivia, Peru and of course Brazil. The juicy fruit has a taste that one could describe as a mix between pear and banana... if you can imagine that.
The fruit can be prepared in many ways such as in cupuacu cream, butter, smoothies, as well as eaten raw like a mango or used as a beauty product in skin moisturizers and hand creams.
Cupuacu is a strong anti-oxidant and consists of distinctive polyphenols as well as vitamins A and C. This incredible super food is also filled with essential fatty acids, amino acids, phosphorus, fibers and vitamins B1, B2, and B3. It is also delicious and we can't wait for you to try it!
Guarana
A Brazilian climbing plant in the maple family, Guarana is a gorgeous red-brown plant with large leaves and blooming clusters of flowers. The seeds, however, are the true gem of this magic plant. Used as a very effective dietary supplement, guarana seeds contain about twice the caffeine found in coffee seeds. Seems like we've been missing out! Being a caffeinated plant, it is also an anti-oxidant and fat-burner.
Guarana is perfect for mixing into smoothies, juices, teas or even into your morning yogurt or oatmeal. We don't know about you but we'll definitely be enjoying some of this tomorrow morning.
Yucca Root
Yucca root, or in spanish "yuca," is a starchy root native to South America and eaten throughout Latin America, South Asia, the Caribbean and Africa. It is likely you have tried it before, as it is used to make tapioca flour, however cooked yucca has a texture much like that of a potato but with a milder taste.
A superfood because of its richness in nutrients, yucca can be used as a very filling and healthy substitute for potato and flour, providing a high percentage of vitamin C and therefore stalling your aging process and decreasing your chances of getting heart disease and cancer. Yucca is also wonderful for the skin and contains a large quantity of dietary fiber, vitamin B and potassium.
Acai Berries
The acai berry is a small reddish-purple fruit that comes from the acai palm tree, a native plant to Central and South America. A fruit extremely rich in antioxidants, it is said to promote weight loss and is certainly considered a key part of any healthy Brazilian diet.
Used in many beauty products as an alternative to other tropical oils, acai is used in things such as facial and body creams, anti-aging skin therapies, shampoos, and conditioners. For food, you can eat the berries or mix them into juice, smoothies, milkshakes, sauces, ice cream and more.
There's no end to the magical possibilities of these superfoods, so eat up!
