Costa Rica Superfoods: nutrient-dense food: Costa Rica bursts with what many modern nutritionists refer to as superfoods, which are especially nutrient-dense and are believed to offer immense health benefits. In fact, there is a good chance residents living in Costa Rica’s blue zone – the Nicoya Peninsula region famous for longevity – are taking advantage of the following locally available superfoods being organically grown, freshly harvested and inexpensively priced. Brief description below of six Costa Rica Superfoods below: Noni, Guanabana,Granadilla, Yucca, Moringa and Jocote.

Superfood
a nutrient-rich food considered
to be especially beneficial for
health and well-being

Noni – shown above

First of all, do not let this oddly shaped and harshly pungent fruit scare you! There is a reason so many naturopathic doctors, healers and shamans all use noni in their therapeutic practices. Noni is full of many powerful antioxidants and compounds that are believed to increase vitality. It is rich in selenium (supports skin elasticity, skin health), xeronine (improves cell structure health and regeneration), glycosides (fights against free radicals), scopoletin (anti-inflammatory) and terpine (allows the body to detoxify). While the natural taste of this fruit causes many people to pinch their nose and down like tequila, mixing its smelly juice in a smoothie with some organic honey makes noni a savory and nutritious snack!

Guanabana

This superfood, also known as soursop, comes from a large, green and spiny fruit that is sometimes described as tasting like a mixture of strawberries and pineapples. Guanabana is thought to have strong antibacterial compounds and promote deep sleep. Even without scientifically conclusive supporting evidence, guanabana is currently being used as a natural cancer remedy.

Granadilla

Granadilla is usually yellow or dark purple with an abundance of seeds. A variety of nutritional benefits are due to the fruit’s high mineral and vitamin content, including antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins A and C, riboflavin, niacin, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, fiber and protein. Granadilla is known to boost immunity, aid digestion, reduce blood pressure, and improve circulation and bone health.

Yucca

This root vegetable is rich in carbohydrates and a great substitute for potatoes. Yucca is an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C and potassium. Medicinal uses of yucca include easing arthritis pain and improving skin health.

Moringa

Moringa is sometimes referred to as the “miracle tree,” with leaves that retain immense amounts of vitamins and minerals when dried. In mainstream wellness circles, moringa is promoted as having more vitamin A than carrots and more vitamin C than oranges. It’s also said to contain more calcium than milk, more iron than spinach, and far more potassium than bananas.

Jocote

Tart and mouth-watering when ripe or unripe, and preferred by most locals with a touch of salt, this fruit is delicious, nutritious and inexpensive. Jocote contains high amounts of fiber, helps prevent acid reflux and is a healthy source of vitamin A and C.