Hot Chocolate
For centuries, maca has been used as a food and medicine to improve energy, sexual function, and fertility. The root vegetable, traditionally grown in the high Andes of Central Peru, is finding its way into functional snacks as a powerful adaptogenic herb. Expect to see more chocolate bars chockfull of earthy-meets-nutty maca that may enhance libido (and satisfy your sweet tooth).
Trailblazer
With the arrival of warmer weather, many runners are taking to the trails. Thanks to the soft, uneven, up-and-down nature of nature trails, running in the wild may improve balance, mental focus, and agility, while being easier on the joints than regular road running. Plan your route, wear proper gear, bring a buddy, and forgo headphones so you can stay alert and safe.
Tempeh tantrum
Tempeh, a traditional Indonesian food typically made from fermented soybeans, is rich in protein, probiotics, vitamins, and minerals. These compact bean blocks are firm in texture, and can be baked, steamed, sauteed, or crumbled into bowls, salads, or stews. Want a break from soy? Alternatives (made from chickpeas, lentils, lupins, and more) are going mainstream, packing big fiber, protein, iron, and vitamin B12.
Roll those eyes
Spending hours slouched over screens? You may be straining your eyes. Give eye yoga a go. Eye yoga combines mindful breathing with small eye movements and exercises, like palming (resting your hands over your eyes), focus shifting, blinking, and eye rolling to relax your eyes, improve your vision, and minimize your eye strain and fatigue.
Super soaker
Magnesium is a mineral your brain, bones, heart, and muscles need to function properly. Even though it’s readily available through food and water, many Americans aren’t getting enough. While more research is needed to determine how much magnesium can soak up through your skin, expect to see bath scrubs and soaks containing magnesium sulfate, aka Epsom salt, to ease muscle aches and pains.
Milk your mushrooms
Mushrooms are entering the alt-milk scene in the form of sippable, foamable barista blends, perfect for your morning latte. Cordyceps and lion’s mane mushroom extracts are added to an oat milk base for a creamy, malty flavor. While human-based research is in its early stages, these superfoods have been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to improve energy, boost immunity, and fight inflammation. [
