4. Quinoa
This ancient grain is another Peruvian gem. For thousands of years, quinoa has been renowned as a good food source. The tiny grain is one of the most protein-rich foods you can eat, and contains all of the essential amino acids you need for good health.
Quinoa is also full of fiber and iron, as well as important nutrients like vitamin B2, manganese, and magnesium.
5. Spirulina
Don’t let the intense green color scare you off – spirulina is one of the most nutrient-dense foods out there. This algae, or cyanobacteria, is incredibly high in protein, fatty acids, and iron.
Spirulina also has a huge vitamin profile, is four times as rich in antioxidants as blueberries, and has 26 times the calcium of milk.
6. Sacha Inchi
Peru is at it again! The Incas first cultivated these seeds, which are similar to peanuts and are rich in Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9 fatty acids.
In fact, sacha inchi seeds make an excellent alternative to fish oil supplements, thanks to their fatty acid profile. In addition, sacha inchi seeds are rich in vitamins A and E.
7. Purple Potatoes
In taste and texture, purple potatoes (first cultivated in – you guessed it – Peru and Bolivia) are just about indistinguishable from your standard brown russet potato. Nutritionally, they’re fairly similar in terms of fat, carbohydrates, fiber, and so on, as well.
The big difference comes in the number of antioxidants. Purple potatoes, thanks to the phytochemicals that give them their color, pack in a huge antioxidant punch. These compounds may also help reduce blood pressure.
Have any recipes for these ancient superfoods? Share them with us!