Brazilians are well known for their energy and passion for life. But where does all this energy come from? Much of it is down to what they eat. It’s all part of a fresh, varied, nutrient dense diet. Since we could all do with a little Brazilian spirit in our day-to-day lives, we’ve researched some native Brazilian foods to keep our energy levels high and passion for life alive. Read more to find out.
Açai berry
This superfood might seem to be the newest health craze but actually it’s been a part of the Brazilian population’s diet for years. Why? It’s health benefits are endless: high in antioxidants, fiber and heart-healthy fats. Plus, if you’ve ever tried an açai bowl, you’ll know it tastes outrageously good with banana and guarana syrup. Wait, what’s guarana syrup you ask? You’re about to find out.
Guarana seeds
Unlike açai, guarana is not so well-known outside of Brazil. Since the plant is a member of the maple family, it’s no surprise that the seeds are used to make a syrup. This is the stuff which gives the raw açai pulp it’s flavour and creates the creamy smooth açai bowl texture we are used to. What’s great about these little guys is that they have twice the amount of caffeine found in coffee seeds. So if it’s energy you need, with this stuff, it’s energy you’ll get.
Brazil nuts
You should all know the health benefits of nuts by now. However, Brazil nuts are often overshadowed by almonds, cashews and peanuts. Not anymore. These super-rich nuts seem to also be super-human. High in selenium, they are said to prevent cancer, protect against bacterial and viral infections and their high levels of B-vitamins also improve brain health and boost metabolism. Is there anything they can’t do? Just be careful you don’t eat too much. 3 nuts a day will provide you with everything you need.
Cupuaçu
Another one of Brazil’s secrets, Cupuaçu is for all the chocolate lovers out there. The white pulp is said to taste like a mixture of chocolate and pineapple and often used in desserts. Hold on a minute…this can’t be healthy right? Wrong. Cupuaçu is said to be one of the most nutritionally advantageous super fruits you can get. It contains 9 powerful antioxidants including vitamins A & C, plus essential fatty acids, fiber…and the list goes on. The best thing is that Cupuaçu contains theacrine which produces mood and energy enhancing effects similar to coffee, but without the negative side effects.
Graviola
Also known as “Soursop”, Graviola is the fruit of Annnona muricata, a broadleaf native to Brazil. It’s most commonly enjoyed as a smoothie, however with a super sweet taste – described as combination of strawberry & apple custard – is also used to add taste to jam and ice cream. However we prefer to keep it clean. Graviola provides all the health benefits you’d expect from a superfood and is especially rich in vitamins, minerals, potassium, calcium, zinc, phosphorous and magnesium: almost everything an athlete requires to stay energised.
You might have to search to find these superfoods, but it’s worth it when you do. Delicious, packed with energy and likely to benefit you on the long run: what else could you want?
Eat like a Brazilian, perform like an olympian.
