© Shutterstock

1. Maca powder -

Maca is a root that is sometimes called Peruvian ginseng. It has an earthy, nutty flavor.

© Shutterstock

Health benefits -

Maca is high in many nutrients, including vitamin C, copper, and iron. It's thought to increase fertility in men, and reduce symptoms of menopause. In addition, it boosts mood and energy.

© Shutterstock

Suggestions - The flavor of maca isn't very exciting, but this makes it ideal to mix into oatmeal, smoothies, or baked goods.

© Shutterstock

2. Turmeric powder - Turmeric is another magical root that has become a health food sensation. It contains curcumin, and many studies have proven the incredible health benefits.

© iStock

Health benefits -

Turmeric reduces the risk of chronic illnesses such as cancer, brain, and heart disease. It's also a natural anti-inflammatory. Consume with black pepper to aid the absorption of the curcumin into your system.

© Shutterstock

Suggestions -

Turmeric is commonly used in Indian dishes as a spice, so it's perfect to add into curries and sauces. A new trend is the 'golden latte.' It's a warm, milky drink with turmeric, cinnamon, and a few other ingredients.

© Shutterstock

3. Hemp powder -

Hemp powder is made by grinding pressed hemp. It doesn't contain CBD or THC, but it does have a lot of health benefits!

© Shutterstock

Health benefits -

Hemp is an excellent source of plant-based, easily digestible protein. It's often used by gymgoers as a supplement, and is perfect for vegetarians and vegans. It's also a great source of fiber and is high in phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, and copper.

© Shutterstock

Suggestions -

Hemp can be blended into smoothies, or used to make homemade protein bars.

© Shutterstock

4. Matcha powder - Matcha is a highly concentrated powder version of green tea. This means that the benefits of green tea are magnified in matcha.

© Shutterstock

Health benefits -

Matcha helps with focus, as it contains almost the same amount of caffeine as coffee. It's good for your blood sugar levels too, as long as it's not a sugary processed drink containing matcha! It also has antioxidants that reduce the risk of cancer.

© Shutterstock

Suggestions -

Matcha lattes are all the rage at the moment, and they're actually delicious and easy to make. Simply mix matcha powder, milk, hot water, and honey or maple syrup.

© Shutterstock

5. Acai powder -

Acai powder is made by blending freeze-dried acai berries. This Brazilian fruit is bursting with health benefits, and is actually quite delicious!

© Shutterstock

Health benefits -

Acai has some vitamins and minerals, but it is most beneficial for its antioxidant properties. Some studies even suggest that acai may be effective in lowering LDL cholesterol.

© Shutterstock

Suggestions -

Elaborate acai bowls are the Instagram breakfast trend of the moment, but they're surprisingly easy to make. Blend acai powder, banana, any berries, and water or milk. You can also add any of the other powders from this list for an extra boost!

© Shutterstock

6. Cocoa powder - The powder is made by crushing the beans from cocoa trees, and removing the fatty cocoa butter. The remaining powder has a rich, chocolatey flavor, and is packed with healthy compounds.

© Shutterstock

Health benefits -

Cocoa powder can reduce blood pressure by improving nitric oxide levels. This can also reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke. The polyphenols can improve blood flow to your brain, which supports brain function.

© iStock

Suggestions - Where to start! Cocoa powder is excellent for all kinds of baked goods and warm drinks. For a healthier dessert option, you can make vegan chocolate mousse by blending cocoa powder, avocado, almond milk, and a natural sweetener like dates.

© Shutterstock

7. Baobab powder -

Baobab powder is made by crushing the fruit that grows on the baobab trees in Africa and Australia. The trees have an unusual appearance and grow up to 100ft (30 meters) tall.

© Shutterstock

Health benefits -

Baobab powder is high in vitamin C, vitamin B6, niacin, iron, and potassium. It's also high in fiber and useful in weight loss, as it promotes feelings of fullness. In addition, it helps balance blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.

© iStock/Shutterstock

Suggestions -

Baobab powder has a citrus flavor, so it's great to add to fruity mixes like smoothies or acai bowls.

© Shutterstock

8. Flaxseed powder -

If you think seeds are just for birds, then ground flaxseed is the alternative for you! The powder version actually provides more health benefits, as the digestive system can't break through the hard shells of the whole seeds.

© Shutterstock

Health benefits -

Flaxseeds are high in many nutrients, such as omega 3 fats, iron, and fiber. They also contain antioxidants that can reduce the risk of cancer. In addition, flaxseeds are also a source of high-quality protein, which may improve immune function and lower cholesterol.

© Shutterstock

Suggestions - Flaxseed powder is great in baked goods and granola. An easy and enjoyable way to add it to your diet is to mix it with some peanut butter. Add to your toast, oatmeal, or just eat it off the spoon!

© Shutterstock

9. Spirulina -

© iStock

Health benefits -

Spirulina is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on earth. It's extremely high in protein, iron, copper, and vitamins B1, B2, and B3. It has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can reduce LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and helps with allergy symptoms. It's magic.

© Shutterstock

Suggestions - A green smoothie is the easiest and most obvious way to use spirulina. When mixed with fruits and leafy greens, the taste disappears. If you're feeling creative, you can add it to homemade pesto, or make these spirulina bites for a quick and healthy energy boost.

© iStock

10. Moringa -

Moringa comes from a tree found in northern India. Its healthy benefits have been praised for thousands of years. Every part of the tree is used in herbal medicine, but the powder is made from the dried leaves.

© Shutterstock

Health benefits -

Moringa is rich in protein, vitamin B6, vitamin C, riboflavin, and iron. While scientific studies of its effects are still in the early stages, it's suspected that it lowers blood sugar, cholesterol, and inflammation.

© Shutterstock

Suggestions -

Moringa can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or bread mix. For a weekend breakfast, try mixing moringa powder with eggs and making a spinach omelette.

See also: Makhana: The superfood taking over fields in northern India

Source: Healthline

© Shutterstock