Are you looking for the best health promoting superfoods around the world?  Unfortunately, millions are falling victim to the endless slideshows and watered down websites promoting apples and oranges as “superfoods.”  Most of these foods have been hybridized, GMO, and sprayed with endless pesticides making them far from “super.”

Fortunately, we have compiled a list of the top 10 superfoods around the world that are organic, not hybridized, non GMO, and not sprayed with pesticides.  These foods have been used for centuries and are scientifically backed with research.

The Top 10 Superfoods That Actually Work

1. Cod Liver Oil

This superfood has been used for centuries and was first discovered by ancient Vikings.  Early Vikings used cod liver oil extensively through the winter months in order to remain healthy.  This super oil is full of vitamin d, omega 3s DHA and EPA, and vitamin K2.

Research shows that vitamin D helps modulate the body’s immune system and helps protect against auto immune conditions (1).  Furthermore, low vitamin D levels have been linked to mental disorders such as anxiety and depression (2).

The omega 3’s DHA and EPA are essential for good health and must be obtained from outside sources due to the body’s inability to manufacture them.  Studies have shown that both EPA and DHA help balance mood, enhance cognitive function, and protect against premature death (3).

A whole book could be written on the health benefits of vitamin K2, but for the sake of this post we will keep it short.  Without enough vitamin K2 in the body, calcium cannot enter the bones and fragile bones and poor dental heath will result.  Calcification is also a possibility since calcium deposits will begin to form in the body when vitamin K2 is not present to displace it.

Even researchers now agree that K2 is just as important as calcium when it comes to building strong bones (4).

Luckily, the high bioavailability of nutrients found in cod liver oil can help you stay both physically and mentally healthy.

Dropi Pure Icelandic Cod Liver Oil – Extra Virgin 220 ML

2. Bovine Colostrum

How bovine colostrum has not gone main stream is an absolute mystery.  The beneficial growth factors and immune modulating properties found within this superfood are unsurpassable.   Colostrum is the first milk produced by all mammals upon giving birth.  Research has shown that this milk contains all the antibodies to any disease the mother has ever been exposed to.  This ensures the survival of the new born and gives it protection against various disease(s).

However, those with gut disorders such as leaky gut, Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome can benefit the most from taking colostrum.

In fact, athlete’s given a bovine colostrum supplement showed a decrease in intestinal permeability than those who were not given colostrum (5).  This is important for those with digestive disorders because intestinal permeability is the number one cause of various digestive issues.

Furthermore, bovine colostrum provides a medium for the gene transfer of passive immunity against various pathogens which can offer disease protection in both humans and animals (6).

Colostrum-LD Powder 16oz with Proprietary Liposomal Delivery

3. Ghee

Ancient Yogis used ghee extensively for its many healing properties.  However, unless you’re from India, or into healthy living, you’ve probably never heard of this superfood. For those unaware, ghee comes from butter and it contains neither of the two common allergens, casein and lactose, that is found in the majority of dairy products.

Research published in An International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda showed there was a significantly lower prevalence of coronary heart disease in men who consumed higher amounts of Ghee (7).

Also, ghee is perfect for anyone looking to heal the gut and improve the integrity of their microbiome.  Researchers have found that the fatty acid Butyric, which is present in ghee, suppresses the growth of harmful gut bacteria and is helpful in those with irritable bowel syndrome (8).

ANCIENT ORGANICS 100% Organic Ghee from Grass-fed Cows, 32oz

4. High Vitamin Butter Oil

Similar to ghee, but much more nutrient dense, high vitamin butter oil is great for anyone looking to remineralize their teeth and bones.  Unlike ghee which is subject to high heat, butter oil is completely raw.  The process is quite complex but manufactures use centrifugal technology in order to capture the butter oil.

Since it’s a raw product, it will contain various nutrients that are otherwise destroyed by heat. It’s full of vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin K2, butyric acid, and calcium

Furthermore, high vitamin butter oil comes from cows who are specifically feeding on rapid growing green grass in the spring.  This is why butter oil is much more amber in color than most ghee products and also much more potent.

The vitamins and minerals found high vitamin butter oil are excellent for the skeletal structure of the human body.  There are numerous testimonials claiming that cod liver oil in tandem with high vitamin butter oil can reverse tooth decay and strengthen bones naturally.

 High Vitamin Butter Oil (Grass Fed & Organic) 13 Oz

5. Collagen

Although consuming a homemade bone broth or gelatin from grass fed bones would be best, collagen powder is a fantastic superfood that has tremendous health benefits.  Healthy skin and joints are all dependent on an adequate supply of collagen.  Joint pain is the biggest indicator that the body is low in collagen.

A 24 week study observed that athletes who supplemented with collagen hydrolysate showed significant improvement in joint pain.  It was concluded that collagen hydrolysate can possibly reduce the risk of joint deterioration (9).

Those looking to preserve their beauty can also benefit from taking a collagen supplement daily.  Researchers have found that collagen can reduce the signs of aging and that it enhances the fibrillar network which improves the integrity of the skin and leads to fewer wrinkles (10).

Pure Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides, Dietary Supplement, Grass Fed, 16 OZ

6. Maca

Ancient Peruvian Indians used maca root extensively in order to promote vigor, strength, and longevity.  Peruvian warriors were said to have consumed copious amounts of maca root before battle in order to increase their stamina and strength.

Maca is one of those superfoods you want to have in your household at all times.  The difference this small but potent vegetable can have on your health if amazing.  It’s considered by many to be one of the best stress reducing superfoods available.

A study published in the International Journal of Biomedical Science found that maca improves long term cognitive function, corrects the HPA-axis within the body, and lowers cortisol levels in the body thus reducing stress levels (11).

Furthermore, maca is a potent libido enhancer and is a great choice for those suffering from sexual dysfunction.  Researchers have found that maca corrects sexual dysfunction by raising libido and effectively increasing sperm count and motility (12).

Also, maca is one of the highest sources of diindolylmethane (DIM) which is excellent for those with excess estrogen or estrogen dominance.  Studies show that DIM contains anti-estrogen properties and effectively modulates estrogen metabolism and decreases the risk of estrogen sensitive cancers (13).

Maca is hands down one of the greatest foods on the planet and goes excellent in any superfood shake that you make.

 Terrasoul Organic Gelatinized Maca Powder, 16 Ounce

7. Acerola Cherry

Having adequate levels of vitamin C in the body at all times is essential for health and well being.  Most of the population is deficient in this key vitamin due to poor diet and stress.  Stress can lower vitamin c levels in the body since the adrenals glands use vitamin c in order to combat stress in the body.  When we become low in this vitamin, our immune system lowers and we risk burning out the adrenal glands.

Acerola cherry is one of the highest whole food sources of natural vitamin c on the planet.  In a 100 gram serving, acerola cherry contains 1500 mg of vitamin c!  This is well above of what is required of the body daily in order to maintain health.

Studies show that vitamin c can effectively reduce the duration of illness in healthy individuals due to its ability to enhance several immune system parameters (14).

Also, those looking for an all-natural beauty enhancer should definitely give acerola cherry a try.  Collagen production in the body is dependent on an adequate supply of circulating vitamin c at all times.  If vitamin c is lacking in the diet, collagen production naturally decreases and skin health will inevitably suffer.

Researchers have found that vitamin c acts as a co-factor for proline and lysine which have both been shown to promote collagen gene expression (15).

Taking a whole food vitamin c daily such as acerola cherry is the quickest and easiest way to promote collagen production in the body and preserve beauty.  Always, choose a whole food vitamin c source such as acerola since synthetic vitamin c (ascorbic acid) has been shown to have pro-oxidant effects in the body and is not considered safe by many experts (16).

Terrasoul Organic Acerola Cherry Powder (Freeze-dried), 4-ounces

8. Desiccated Beef Liver

Desiccated beef liver is one of the forgotten superfoods that can have serious health promoting benefits if taken daily.  Although fresh grass fed liver would be best, desiccated beef liver makes for any excellent superfood powder that you can take anywhere with you.

Liver contains an abundance of vitamins and minerals that are seriously lacking in the standard American diet.  Vitamin D, A, and K2, can all be found in liver and all play an extremely important role in maintaining good health.  Also, the minerals calcium, magnesium, copper, zinc, selenium, manganese, and phosphorous can also be found in liver.

Desiccated beef liver is such a powerful food that researchers are using it in order to reverse nutrient deficiencies in malnourished children in other countries (17).  In fact, liver is considered a complete food with all the necessary amino acids, vitamins, and minerals needed to sustain life.

Furthermore, the vitamin A content found in beef liver is unsurpassed when compared to any other food.  Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining good health and many researchers believe vitamin A deficiency is one of the causes of age related macular degeneration or poor eyesight (18).

The taste of desiccated beef liver may take some time getting used to but many find adding it to their favorite superfoods shake works great for masking taste and boosting the nutrient content.

Ancestral Supplements Grass Fed Beef Liver (Desiccated)

9. Cacao

Often referred to as “The Food of The Gods,” cacao was used for centuries by ancient Aztecs and various Amazonian tribes.  Cacao is the highest food source of magnesium in the world and contains an abundance of antioxidants which can protect the body from harmful free radicals.

In fact, research published in Antioxidant & Redox Signaling found that cacao protects against cardiovascular disease and reduces the risk of developing diabetes.   They also found that the flavanols in cacao have anti-inflammatory properties (19).

Chocolate has long been recognized as a longevity food among many researchers studying diet and nutrition.  The best example of this is the centenarian, Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122 years old.  It was documented that Jeanne consumed over 2 pounds of chocolate a week!

Furthermore, a study published in British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that the flavonoids in cacao preserve cognitive abilities during aging, lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, decrease the risk of stroke, and can combat emotional stress by having a positive effect on mood (20).

Cacao goes great in your favorite superfoods smoothie and naturally adds a boost of beneficial antioxidants which can improve health dramatically.

Sunfood Cacao Powder, 1lb, Organic

10. Bee Pollen

One of the best foods for reducing seasonal allergies, bee pollen is a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals.  It’s one of the best natural sources of B-vitamins on the planet and contains an abundance of calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, silicon, and selenium.   For those unaware, bee pollen is the pollen that has been packed into small pellets by the worker bees.

It contains over 22 amino acids, 10 of which are essential for health.  Bee pollen provides the necessary building blocks so that the body can regenerate itself and heal.  Also, unlike honey, bee pollen is extremely low in sugar and is a great option for those on a low sugar diet.

As well as being full of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, bee pollen can also detoxify the body of harmful pollutants.

Research published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine showed that bee pollen protects the liver from chemical toxins and has shown the ability to detoxify heavy metals, industrial gases and dusts, and pharmaceutical drugs (21).

Furthermore, bee pollen contains anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties.  Research indicates that bee pollen can inhibit the growth of 40 different pathogenic candida yeast strains (22).

Anyone dealing with a candida overgrowth or a gut dysbiosis can benefit tremendously from taking a bee pollen product daily.

Bee pollen goes great in recipes, smoothies, and even salads.  However, the best way to take bee pollen is mixed with a raw honey such as Manuka.  This will enhance the effects of the pollen against any pathogenic yeast or bacteria that may be residing in your gut.

Stakich SPANISH BEE POLLEN GRANULES 1 lb (16 oz)

Conclusion

These superfoods can help aid you in your journey of better health and healing.  Unlike most websites that put together a basic list of hybridized, GMO, and pesticide laden “superfoods,” we have put together the most complete list of foods that actually make a positive difference on your health.   These superfoods have been used for centuries and have a proven track record of nourishing the body on the physical, mental, and cellular level.  Choosing from this list of top 10 superfoods on a regular basis and making them a part of your of weekly diet can help improve your health and vitality tremendously.