A ROOT Awakening: Superfoods To Super Size Your Health And Healing

It is no surprise that food plays a role in how we feel and how we heal. The food we eat can contribute to increased inflammation, anxiety and stress which in turn can lead to pain and disease. For centuries, eastern healing models such as Traditional Chinese Medicine, yoga therapy and Ayurveda frequently use herbs and foods to therapeutically treat symptoms of acute and chronic disease, mental health, and injury.

For example; turmeric root has been used in India for thousands of years as a spice and medicinal herb. Recently in the West, turmeric has been gaining popularity for its anti-inflammatory properties. Numerous studies have shown that turmeric’s active ingredient curcumin is not only a powerful antioxidant, but also can be used to help reduce pain and inflammation for people suffering from arthritis, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, bronchitis and even depression!

We wanted to know more about healing foods, so we sat down with licensed acupuncturist, nutrition and wellness expert Abby Diamond to ask her what she names as her 3 superfood must haves.

What are your 3 go to wellness boosting foods or herbs?

 “There are thousands of herbs out there that do wonderful things, but it can be overwhelming and confusing.

#1. I love Jujube dates. They are a natural sedative. Anytime I’m feeling a little anxious, I grab a handful of dates! Jujube dates contain saponin, which has a soothing effect on the entire nervous system. They’re also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants which help to fight disease (like cancer) and signs of aging.

#2. Another love of mine is dandelion. I start my day with dandelion tea because it is packed with antioxidants.  It’s also known as a “natural antibiotic”. As a high source of vitamin A and vitamin K, dandelion cleanses the liver, supports bone health, fights diabetes, skin infections and so much more. Not to mention, historically, dandelion has been used to treat problems relating to the liver, gallbladder, kidneys and joints.

#3. I never leave the store without grabbing a bag of goji berries. They are a household staple! Goji berries are another high level antioxidant food and are known for their anti-aging effects. They act on the liver and kidneys, support eye health, joint health, and even libido if eaten often. I usually add goji berries to my smoothies, hot cereal or hot water to create a delicious immune-boosting tonic.

The best part? All these things can be easily found at your local grocery store! Enjoy!”

Do you have a favorite super food recipe for our readers?

“Yes! In the summer months, I always start my day with this non-dairy, plant-based smoothie.

2 cups       almond milk or pea milk (yes that’s a thing)

1 scoop      plant protein of choice (I use Vanilla Mushroom Protein from Moon Juice)

1-2 cups    baby spinach or romaine (sometimes both)

1                  soft brown-spotted banana

¼                avocado

This day starter is so creamy, filling, and delicious. It also gives me a ton of energy!”

Hey ROOT Readers! Do you have a go to superfood recipe? Share your favorite for a chance to have it made and featured on IG! Follow us @rootyogatherapy_

Subscribe and save! All “A ROOT Awakening” subscribers will get a special 20% off your initial (in person or Skype) consultation and treatment with Abby when you mention this blog!

Contact her directly at:

Abby Diamond, L.Ac.

The Womb Wellness Center

Solon, OH

abbydiamond415@gmail.com

216-633-2828