Here is another superfood you may not know of that belongs in your diet. There are many food that have an incredible amount of healthy nutrients we may not know about. Many immigrants rely on trees and plants of health or medicinal value to keep them healthy, instead of using pharmaceuticals. While the use of these so called nutraceuticals is growing, there are still not as commonly known to many American’s since they are just not familiar with them and had not grown up using them. Moringa oleifera, also known as the “miracle tree” is rich in antioxidants and has many medicinal uses as well. Check out this article regarding the plant and its uses. Why this “Miracle Tree”™ belongs in your diet Posted on November 21, 2015 by Brad Hoppmann Recently, we”™ve been spotlighting some incredible herbs, plants, mushrooms and foods that are true superstars when it comes to the health benefits they deliver. Today, by popular request, we will be diving into another remarkable plant named moringa oleifera, also known as the “miracle tree.” Native to parts of Africa and Asia, moringa is a true nutritional powerhouse. It is packed with 25 bio-available vitamins and minerals, 47 active antioxidants, 36 anti-inflammatories, and all eight essential amino acids. When compared pound-for-pound, moringa contains seven times the vitamin C found in oranges, four times the vitamin A of carrots, four times the calcium of milk, three times potassium of bananas, and essential minerals such as zinc and iron. The main antioxidants found in moringa include vitamin C, quercetin and chlorogenic acid. These antioxidants have been shown to slow cells”™ absorption of sugar, and animal studies have found it to lower blood sugar levels. As noted in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention (link available here): “The leaves of the Moringa oleifera tree have been reported to demonstrate antioxidant activity due to its high amount of polyphenols. “Moringa oleifera extracts of both mature and tender leaves exhibit strong antioxidant activity against free radicals, prevent oxidative damage to major biomolecules, and give significant protection against oxidative damage.” The ability to combat oxidative damage is critical to warding off disease. But fighting dangerous inflammation in the body may be even more important. read more