Countless studies have been done that show that cacao (without added dairy or processed sugar) has a multitude of health benefits. I could literally write an entire paper on the benefits of cacao! Luckily for those of us who enjoy the sublime taste of raw chocolates, there are no scientific studies that have concluded that cacao is unhealthy.

Cinnamon should definitely be included in the “superfood” category for many reasons. Did you know that cinnamon has super-antioxidant power, and is several hundred times more potent than any fruit or vegetable? Cinnamon contains: B-complex vitamins, as well as chromium, iron, zinc, and calcium, and in studies it has been shown to help prevent brain tissue damage that leads to Alzheimer’s. The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease reported that cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin, both found in cinnamon, inhibit the clustering of a protein called tau, which forms lesions in the brain that lead to Alzheimer’s.

Many of you have heard of Maca by now, it’s fairly common to see it in most stores. And, that’s a good thing. Maca is truly a super food in every sense of the word, and the hype is well deserved. Maca is a root that has been used in Peru for a very long time, and is in the radish family. It is considered an adaptogenic root that can help you deal with stress, give you energy, provide hormonal balance and increase physical endurance.

One of the most frequent questions I get is “What is the difference between juicing and blending?” Some people are uncertain if these methods are the same, or if one is different from the other. Juicing and blending are actually completely different and I believe both can have a role in a living foods diet. However, in terms of nutrient power and efficiency, juices win hands down.