5 amazing superfoods that only look poisonous and one that really is

Possessing superior health benefits, in a dimiunitive size, a superfood is relatively unknown, uncommon and often, incredbily inexpensive. Unconventional and unfamiliar, these five superfoods may only look peculiar but remain extraordinary:

1 Chlorella - a green algae that contains primarily chlorophyll, chlorella absorbs sunlight and converts it into edible, complete protein, more than any other plant. Chlorella is packed with vitamins and minerals and grows wild in fish tanks and ponds. Although chlorella is best in its pure state, pond scum has a tendency to be disgusting. Instead opt for the powdered variety. See recommendations below. (image courtesy lamolina.net)

2 Goji Berries (dried) - these “red diamonds” are one of the most nutrient rich superfoods on the planet. Goji berries primarily contain amino acids (eight are the essential kind) and free radical devouring antioxidants. Goji berries support a healthy immune system: they contain more vitamin C than oranges, beta carotene than carrots and more iron than spinach. See recommendations below. (image courtesy Stockbyte)

3 Wakame Seaweed - if you’ve had miso soup, then you’ve had wakame. The green, slippery leaf (kelp) multiplies via spores and grows rampant on ship hulls, marine farming equipment and bridges. Although wakame is an invasive weed, studies have shown that the pigment composition of wakame is healthy and can actually help burn fat cells. Wakame has also been found to have anti-aging properties. See recommendations below. (image courtesy Stockbyte)

4 Chia Seeds (salvia) - remember the Chia Pet™? Chia seeds. This Aztec superfood is best known for promoting endurance and high energy by creating a “barrier” in the stomach ultimately stabilizing metabolism by slowing down the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar. Chia seeds retain moisture and makes it ideal for maintaining hydration levels. Perhaps this is one of the reasons it is also sold as an anti-aging food. See recommendations below. (image courtesy Qwatra!)

5 Maca (Lepidium meyenii) - This natural Viagra® was once used for centuries by Peruvians to enhance sexual function and improve hormonal function. Maca’s libido boosting characteristics are possibly due to the macamides and macaenes, two natural compounds contained in the root of the plant, which is dried and converted to powder. Large areas of land in Peru are now devoted to maca cultivation. See recommendations below. (image courtesy pureamazonherbs.com)

6 Apple seeds - they contain cyanide which is probably why you never see apple seeds for sale. But everyone has eaten an apple seed, intentionally or not, and are alive simply due to the body’s ability to detoxify small quantities of cyanide compounds. In fact, chewing apple seeds are actually more dangerous than swallowing them whole. Apples, however are among the healthiest fruits. According to All About Apples.com a website devoted to everything apple (the fruit), “apples have no fat, cholesterol or sodium, and contain small amounts of potassium, which may promote heart health, help maintain healthy blood pressure and a healthy weight.” Did you know, that the number of seeds in an apple is determined by the vigor and health of the plant? I wonder what would happen if you fertilized an apple orchard with maca?