Miranda says: “This is one of the best sources of muscle-relaxing, stress-relieving magnesium. I often use cacao powder in shakes.”
Cacao is also rich in amino acids, beta-carotene, zinc and iron. Indulge in Cacao Gold Ecuadorian Organic Cacao Powder from www.powersuperfoods.com.au
>> Raw dark chocolate
Miranda says: “This is my weakness. It’s rich in antioxidants though, and I’m happy to remind myself of that!”
Aside from its antioxidant benefits, raw dark chocolate is lower in fat than milk chocolate. Try the Loving Earth range from health food stores. (03) 9095 6250, www.lovingearth.net
>> Sweet potatoes
Miranda says: “My son Flynn loves these as much as I do! They can be grilled, mashed and roasted.”
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A and low-GI, and also provide fibre and a third of your daily required amount of vitamin C.
>> Maca root powder
Miranda says: “Rich in amino acids, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and trace elements, it’s great to mix into smoothies, yoghurt, cereal, oatmeal or muesli.”
Dubbed “the Peruvian superfood”, the Maca Power range is certified organic and available online at www.power superfoods.com.au
>> Certified organic coconut palm sugar
Miranda says: “This is a great substitute for regular white sugar, as it’s low-GI.”
An unbleached sugar alternative harvested from the coconut tree blossom. It is low GI so reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Buy it online at www.powersuperfoods.com.au
>> Liquid chlorophyll
Miranda says: “I add this to my water most days. It is naturally alkaline and contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids.”
Chlorophyll is the green pigment in plants that is formed from sunlight and early research suggests it may help protect the body from the damaging effects of too much red meat. Try Grants Liquid Chlorophyll from www.inspiredwellbeing.com
>> Coconut water
Packed with electrolytes, coconut water is being billed as a powerful natural hydrator. While more research is needed into its health benefits, it is an undeniable source of vitamins C and B, protein, calcium, iron and zinc. It has very little sugar and zero fat. Check out the Cocobella range at www.purecoco
bella.com.au
>> Chia oil
Miranda says: “I use this or chia seeds in shakes. They’re also great for thickening a healthy muffin mix.”
Chia is rich in antioxidants and omega-3. As it has little taste, the oil can be added to food or used in baking while the seeds are sprinkled on cereals. Try The Chia Co’s range from www.thechiaco.com.au
>> Goji berries
Miranda says: “A great snack between meals, goji berries are rich in antioxidants and are said to have more
vitamin C than oranges.”
These berries have been part of traditional Asian medicine for centuries. The Goji Power range supports Tibetan causes. Available at www.powersuperfoods.com.au
>> Raw honey
Miranda says: “It’s 100 per cent natural and deliciously sweet.”
Research shows honey may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a healthier alternative to cane sugar. Indulge in the Maya Sunny Honey range from www.mayasunnyhoney.com.au
>> Tamari almonds
Miranda says: “I rarely leave the house without a small bag of these. They’re the perfect snack while I am on the road and I can never get enough.”
Almonds are high in fibre, low-GI and a source of vitamin E, magnesium and riboflavin. Try the Organic
Road range at www.organicroad.com.au
>> Organic wine
If you’re attempting a completely organic diet and can’t part with the odd drop, Miranda recommends investigating the new crop of organic wines, many of which are also biodynamic and vegan-friendly. Try the sparkling Blanc De Blanc from Organic One, a boutique winery in southern NSW. (03) 5886 1208, www.organic-1.com
>> Acai berry powder
Miranda says: “I sprinkle it on my porridge, gluten-free cereal or smoothie.”
Acai berries are a rich source of antioxidants and the powder is easily added to foods. RioLife’s acai products are 100 per cent organic and Fair Trade certified. Available at select health-food stores and at www.riolife.com.au
>> Dulse leaf and wakame seaweeds
Miranda says: “I snack on these throughout the day and also put wakame in soups as it is nutritious and tasty.”
Seaweed is rich in omega-3, iron and calcium and the red dulse variety is also very high in protein. Buy it at www.powersuperfoods.com.au
>> Noni juice
Miranda says: “This is my worst-kept beauty secret. I drink it daily and noni extract is part of my Kora Organics range. It aids the immune system because of the number of vitamins and minerals it contains.”
Noni juice is high in vitamin C and potassium and may have antibacterial properties. Try Tahitian Noni at www.nonijuiceint.com.au