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Superfoods 101: Why to add superfoods into your life

November 8, 2017 By Ashley 133 Comments

This post and giveaway all about superfoods is sponsored by Navitas Organics. Thanks for supporting our sponsors.

Greetings, friends! I don’t exactly remember when I first heard the term “superfood” come up, but I do know that it was since I’ve been living in the San Francisco Bay Area — so within the past five years. While superfoods have been around for a lot longer than that (some of them are ancient, actually), the term itself didn’t seem to make it into the mainstream public eye until we all became a little bit more focused on our health as of late.

Well, I’ve always thought I had a decent working knowledge of all things superfoods, but then, a couple of months ago, I asked the lovely people in the A Lady Goes West Friends Facebook group what kind of questions they have about health and wellness, and the term superfood came up. Always wanting to know more, I jumped on that topic and decided to do some research on my own and also reach out to my favorite superfood company, Navitas Organics, for the real deal.

Superfoods 101

Superfoods 101- Why to add superfoods into your life by A Lady Goes West

It turns out that there is no official/legal designation for what makes a food a superfood, but the general consensus is that superfoods are foods that contain a lot of beneficial nutrients — they are powerhouses known to help people get healthier and perform better. And in addition to a balanced diet, you can optimize your nutrition by eating more superfoods on a daily basis.

There are two kinds of superfoods: (1) traditional superfoods, which most people can readily recognize and hopefully are already eating (like broccoli, nuts, sweet potatoes, etc.) and (2) specialized superfoods, which are the more obscure foods and sometimes have the lesser-identifiable names, like chia, maca, cacao, etc..

There are easy ways to incorporate these specialized superfoods into your life for a host of benefits, including and not limited to, improved immune function, bowel regularity (a SUPER important part of wellness and one we shouldn’t be too shy to discuss, by the way), reduced inflammation (another big marker of health), better energy and overall optimal health. 

Yet, perhaps the most important thing to note is that these specialized superfoods are not just for the wellness-obsessed health nut (like me) — in fact, everybody can benefit from superfoods, and the barrier to entry is low, low, low. Don’t be scared of these foods, just because you may not be familiar with them and aren’t used to seeing them on your pantry shelf. They are quite easy to start eating.

Now, to dig a little bit deeper with information straight from a reputable source, next up, you’ll find an interview with the new Navitas Organics in-house registered dietitian, Miranda Hammer. Miranda is answering all of our burning questions, and don’t miss the giveaway at the end!

What are superfoods - Navitas Organics - 6 by A Lady Goes West

All of our superfood questions answered

But first, a little bit about Miranda: Miranda Hammer, MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian, natural foods chef and the founder of the website Crunchy Radish. She focuses mostly on plant-based foods, and in her role with Navitas Organics, Miranda creates benefit-oriented superfood recipes, answers fan questions and represents Navitas Organics at health and wellness events and more. (Sounds like a fun gig!) 

Miranda has a Master’s Degree from the Clinical Nutrition Program at New York University, and she’s been featured in Vogue, on mindbodygreen, on Well + Good, on food52 and of course, now on A Lady Goes West.

Here are her answers … (and you can see MY comments in parentheses). 

In layman’s terms, what is a superfood? 

Superfoods are nutrient-dense foods that provide benefits for health and well-being. They can range from chia seeds to blueberries to spinach to cacao.

(Salmon, sweet potatoes, avocados, almonds and bananas are superfoods too. All of my faves.) 

Does the everyday person need to eat superfoods? 

The everyday person should integrate traditional superfoods into their diet, such as dark leafy greens, berries, nuts, seeds and cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts to name a few — for optimal health.

For added nutritive benefits and functioning, integrating more specialized superfoods, such as chia seeds, maca, cacao and goji berries, adds additional benefits for bowel regularity, immune function, reduced inflammation and optimal wellness.

(But remember, it all starts with a solid diet, and then you can try to add the extras on from there. You can’t add superfoods to a fast food diet and expect to feel better.)

What are some of the most popular superfoods?

Cacao, goji berries, chia seeds and matcha.

(I remember when it was hard to find chia seeds in the stores, now they are everywhere. But you want to choose the highest-quality ones, of course, and a little goes a long way. I use one tablespoon a day.)

How are superfood berries different from regular berries?

All berries are considered superfoods in my book, due to their antioxidant power and vitamin and mineral makeup. Specialized superfoods such as goji, mulberries and goldenberries do contain higher amounts of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, which help with immune function, boost collagen production and protect against premature aging.

(Based on my research, goldenberries and goji berries have more protein than your average berry and have an amazing amount of antioxidants, which protect the body from damage, and which I think I need now more than ever as I struggle with sleep deprivation from life with a new babe.)

What are superfoods - Navitas Organics - 3 by A Lady Goes West

What are some easy ways to start incorporating superfoods into your diet?

To start adding specialized superfoods into your diet, try adding a teaspoon of cacao, maca, maqui or acai powder into your smoothie for a seamless way to start integrating them into your routine.

Additionally, adding some hemp seeds or chia seeds to your morning oats, a soup, stew or a salad is another simple way to boost your meal without too many new tastes or textures taking over a dish. 

(If you’re a toast, pancake or granola person in the morning, you can add a handful of goldenberries or goji berries to the top of your spread for a simple addition. I do it almost every day, and these babies are delicious.)

What should we look for when deciding what kind of superfoods to buy?

Ideally, you want to look for products that are organic, and because most of the specialized superfoods come from various countries around the world, finding products that are fair trade and sustainable is also key.

Is it possible to consume too many superfoods on a daily basis?

When adding any new food into your diet it is important to start slow — about a 1/2 teaspoon at a time to see how your body responds, especially because some of the products, like chia seeds, are very high in fiber. You also want to make sure you are consuming water throughout the day to balance out the increase in fiber intake.

Additionally, anything in excess is never a good idea. Some superfoods are calorie dense and have high amounts of vitamins and minerals, so it’s best to stick to two to three a day and to watch your servings. 

(As with any new fitness regimen or diet in your life, start small and see how you feel.)

How is cacao different from chocolate? 

Cacao is the purest form of chocolate and is usually found raw. When cacao is heated and processed, it turns into cocoa and is usually infused with other ingredients such as preservatives, sugar, milk and food coloring. Chocolate is the combination of cacao or cocoa with sweeteners, milk, and possibly oil, nuts, dried fruit and seeds.

(Based on my research, cacao has a ton of antioxidants and helps with your cardiovascular health.) 

What are superfoods - Navitas Organics - 2 by A Lady Goes West

What will eating superfoods do for someone’s overall health, nutrition or fitness?

Adding superfoods into your diet has a multitude of benefits, ranging from improved immune function, bowel regularity, skin clarity, reduction of inflammation and improved energy.

(And quite honestly, you feel so good knowing that you’re fueling your body up with something a little extra. Or at least I always do.)

What’s your favorite superfoods recipe, which can be a side dish for Thanksgiving?

I love a big hearty salad side loaded with roasted delicata squash. Topping the salad with spicy sunflower seeds or cashews and a sprinkling of hemp seeds is an easy way to incorporate superfoods into a large dish and still have it be a crowd pleaser for all types of palates. 

And there you have it! Superfoods are beneficial and easy to add into your diet — you heard it here, straight from a registered dietitian.

A little bit about Navitas Organics

Let’s talk for a minute about Navitas Organics. I met the awesome people behind Navitas Organics before at an event they hosted in San Francisco (including the CEO and founder), and we’ve always kept in touch, because I’m such a fan of their products. If you’ve been around the blog before, you know I put Navitas Organics chia seeds on just about every breakfast I eat, and I’ve also been known to throw some pomegranate powder and goji berries into a dish as well. Yay superfoods!

Navitas Organics offers more than 60 nutrient-dense superfood ingredients and snacks, which are USDA-certified organic, and these products can be found in most grocery stores or online. The company has been around since 2003 and is based in Northern California — woohoo. And their products are oh-so-colorful and pleasing to the eye. Am I right?

What are superfoods - Navitas Organics - 5 by A Lady Goes West

And now for your chance to win …

Enter to win Navitas Organics superfoods

One lucky winner, who must reside in the U.S., will win one bag of each of the following to get their specialized superfood game on big time:

  • Cacao Nibs
  • Cacao Powder
  • Mulberries
  • Goji Berries
  • Goldenberries (my absolute favorite!)
  • And several Superfood+ bars (all of which are super delicious!)

Here’s a look at the spread the winner will receive …

What are superfoods - Navitas Organics -1 by A Lady Goes West
a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is closed!

Where to find Navitas Organics and a sale

Also, just a note: all of the Navitas Organics cacao products (including Nibs, Sweet Nibs, Powder and Butter) as well as the berry products (including Mulberries, Goldenberries and Goji Berries) and the Superfood+ Bars (Maca Maple, Cacao Cranberry, Goji Acai and Hemp Peanut) will be 20 percent off in November when you purchase directly from the brand, so head to the site to check them out. 

You can also find Navitas Organics products in a lot of grocery stores nationwide, including Sprouts Farmer’s Market, Safeway and even Target. Use this store locator to find a retailer near you.

Thanks for stopping by the blog today, my friends! Good luck in the giveaway!

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Navitas Organics. I received compensation and complementary products, however, all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the great brands that support A Lady Goes West.

Learn about superfoods and have a chance to win them on A Lady Goes West today ... Click To Tweet

Questions of the day 

What’s your favorite superfood?

What superfood do you most want to try and why?

What’s your favorite Thanksgiving recipe?

Filed Under: Food, Recipes Tagged With: Chia seeds, food, giveaway, Miranda Hammer, Navitas Organics, registered dietitian, sponsored, superfoods

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About Ashley

I'm a mom and fitness instructor in Charlotte, North Carolina. And A Lady Goes West is where I share fitness, wellness and clean beauty tips, as well as stories from my life.
 
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Comments

  1. Leah H. says

    November 8, 2017 at 3:08 am

    The Cacao nibs look delicious! I would top my protein smoothie with these!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 2:01 pm

      Ohhh that’s a great idea, Leah! I may have to steal it! 🙂

      Reply
  2. Jennifer says

    November 8, 2017 at 3:17 am

    I’ve tried all of these, actually–cacao nibs are my favorite. Love adding them to energy/protein balls!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 2:01 pm

      That’s a great way to use them! Thanks for entering, Jennifer! 🙂

      Reply
  3. Emily @ Pizza &Pull-ups says

    November 8, 2017 at 4:09 am

    Thanks for all the info! Looks like some great goodies!
    Emily @ Pizza &Pull-ups recently posted…Coffee DateMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 2:02 pm

      They are definitely great goodies! Thanks for saying hi, Emily! Happy Wednesday! 🙂

      Reply
  4. Patricia @sweet and strong says

    November 8, 2017 at 4:20 am

    I love Navitas Organic products, but had no idea they made bars! I would love to try them!
    Patricia @sweet and strong recently posted…Spin, Poke, Pizza Night and Other Weekend HighlightsMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 2:01 pm

      I LOVE the bars! You’d love them too. Thanks for entering, Patricia! 🙂

      Reply
  5. Allison says

    November 8, 2017 at 4:27 am

    I would love to try the cacao nibs and powder!! I can imagine all the ways I can use them. I’d also love to try the bars. I’ve seen them at stores but I can’t buy snacks at that price right now!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 2:00 pm

      Hi Allison! Totally – there are so many ways to use all of these superfoods. Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  6. Christopher Sorel says

    November 8, 2017 at 4:47 am

    superfood bars

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 2:00 pm

      They are good! Thanks for entering, Chris! 🙂

      Reply
  7. Julie says

    November 8, 2017 at 5:00 am

    I most want to try the goji berries because they are so colorful and intriguing looking!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:34 am

      I love the color of them too. Thanks for entering, Julie! 🙂

      Reply
  8. latanya says

    November 8, 2017 at 5:35 am

    Goji berries they sound wonderful and look great

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:18 am

      They are some of my faves!! Thanks for entering, Latanya!

      Reply
  9. Courtney Koch says

    November 8, 2017 at 6:01 am

    One of my favorite things about the specialized superfoods is how easy they are to incorporate into foods I already eat, like salads, smoothies and health-i-fied baked goods.

    And one of the things I miss most about drinking Shakeology every day is how many superfoods it contained per shake.

    Thank you for all this information. This was a super helpful and informative post!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:17 am

      Yay! So glad you liked it, Courtney! I know Shakeology made it easy, but I’m sure you can throw a few of these in your own smoothie and feel just as good! Happy Wednesday, my friend! (I’m wearing my k’tan baby wearer right now with a sleeping babe on my chest!)

      Reply
      • Courtney Koch says

        November 8, 2017 at 10:21 am

        Yay for the baby wearer! It’s like a tiny piece of me is there in some small way!
        Xoxo.

        Reply
        • Ashley says

          November 8, 2017 at 1:56 pm

          I keep meaning to take a picture of him in it, but the angle is TERRIBLE for me taking it myself hahah! Stay tuned for a photo! He’s in it again right now — it’s the only way I can get any work done. So I am eternally grateful to you! 🙂

          Reply
  10. Alyssa says

    November 8, 2017 at 6:26 am

    I’d love to try the cacao nibs or berries in my morning oats! With a new baby a little pinch of the good stuff is sort of an indulgence as well as good for you.
    Alyssa recently posted…My Other 25th Birthday GiftMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:16 am

      Agreed, Alyssa! We need all the treats we can get right now ehehhe. We deserve them! 🙂 Thanks for entering!

      Reply
  11. Maureen @ Maureen Gets Real says

    November 8, 2017 at 7:08 am

    I haven’t tried a ton of the “trendy” superfoods but I love adding chia seeds to overnight oats! They help keep me full from breakfast until lunch.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:15 am

      Me too! That’s how I first used chia seeds, actually! Thanks for entering, Maureen! 🙂

      Reply
  12. Heather says

    November 8, 2017 at 7:12 am

    I’ve never tried golden berries! I’d love to try them!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:15 am

      You’ll love them, Heather! Hope all is well! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  13. Liz says

    November 8, 2017 at 7:22 am

    I’m most excited about the bars! I’ve never tried these so I’m pumped about that.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:14 am

      They are so good! Thanks for entering, Liz! 🙂

      Reply
  14. Amy says

    November 8, 2017 at 7:53 am

    With a month old and a 2 year old, I am TIRED. I would love to try the goji berries for a little boost of energy!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:14 am

      Sounds like you need the berries heheh! Tired Mommas unite! 🙂 Thanks for entering, Amy.

      Reply
  15. Amber D says

    November 8, 2017 at 8:18 am

    I have always wanted to try mulberries! Great giveaway!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:14 am

      Thanks, Amber! You are welcome! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  16. Kelli @ Hungry Hobby says

    November 8, 2017 at 8:46 am

    I get this question all the time ! Love all the information here!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:14 am

      Yay! It’s Kelli approved! That makes my day heheh! 🙂

      Reply
  17. melanie huttner says

    November 8, 2017 at 9:36 am

    I want to try goji berries because I’ve heard so many positive things about them and I love berries!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:13 am

      Hi Melanie! And they are so tasty! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  18. jberry says

    November 8, 2017 at 9:52 am

    I would like to try the Mulberries. I know Navitas as a quality bran. Have had their Nibs and love their Pomergranate Powder, is a go to especially when I travel for work ( just packed a bag this morning for my trip to Fl. tomorrow).

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:13 am

      That’s a great idea to bring these for traveling. And yay for a trip to Florida. Where are you heading?

      Reply
      • jberry says

        November 8, 2017 at 11:25 am

        Temporary relocation to Pensacola.

        Reply
        • Ashley says

          November 8, 2017 at 1:53 pm

          Ohhh cool! Well I hope it goes well! Good luck!

          Reply
  19. Kaitlyn says

    November 8, 2017 at 9:55 am

    I love so many of these already! I’ve never tried mulberries before…I’d love to try those!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:12 am

      Yay for superfoods! Thanks for entering, Kaitlyn! 🙂

      Reply
  20. Amanda says

    November 8, 2017 at 9:56 am

    I use chia seeds in my overnight oats and love sprinkling hemp seeds on salads. I’ve never tried the golden berries though, so I will be on the lookout.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 10:11 am

      Hi Amanda! Good girl — glad you are already on the superfood train! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  21. Denise L says

    November 8, 2017 at 10:22 am

    I’d love to try the Cacao Nibs. Pure, unadulterated chocolate…my favorite!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:56 pm

      The BEST kind of chocolate, right? Thanks for entering, Denise!

      Reply
  22. Alaina says

    November 8, 2017 at 10:32 am

    Wow! I’d love to win this!! I need super foods in my life!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:56 pm

      Don’t we all, Alaina heheh! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  23. Alyssa says

    November 8, 2017 at 10:46 am

    I use chia seeds in my oatmeal but love the other suggestions Ashley!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:55 pm

      Good girl, Alyssa! 🙂 Thanks for entering!

      Reply
  24. Sarah4rdfl@gmail.com says

    November 8, 2017 at 10:58 am

    I would love to try cacao and cacao nibs. I feel like it would be a fun way to make healthy meals and snacks!
    Sarah4rdfl@gmail.com recently posted…Confidence Through AdversityMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:55 pm

      They sure are fun! Thanks for entering, Sarah! 🙂

      Reply
  25. Jessie N says

    November 8, 2017 at 11:08 am

    The Cacao nibs sound yummy! 🙂

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:54 pm

      They are!! Thanks for entering, Jessie! 🙂

      Reply
  26. Dee Johnson says

    November 8, 2017 at 11:22 am

    I really want to try the Cacao Powder because I have read many great things about it.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:53 pm

      Yessss — it’s so good! Thanks for entering, Dee! 🙂

      Reply
  27. Lauren Migdon says

    November 8, 2017 at 11:47 am

    I’ve been taking maca and cacao for years and I have had goji berries before but never tried the golden berries or mulberries! I would be so excited to win!!!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:53 pm

      That’s awesome you’re already on the superfoods train, Lauren! 🙂 Thanks for entering!

      Reply
  28. Jennifer @ Fit Nana says

    November 8, 2017 at 11:48 am

    I LOVE the cacao nibs! They are absolutely heavenly on a spoonful of nut butter. *swoon* Yes, I eat nut butter by the spoonful. 😀 I’d love to try the Goji Berries! Either I’m not looking well or I can’t find them around here. I’ll blame it on my old eyes. lol
    Jennifer @ Fit Nana recently posted…OCTOBER RUNFESSIONSMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:53 pm

      hahahah! Jennifer! So funny! Goji berries are delish — good luck in the giveaway! Thanks for entering!

      Reply
  29. Jamie King says

    November 8, 2017 at 11:55 am

    I absolutely LOVE Navita’s Organics products – especially the cacao nibs – perfect for smoothies and baking!
    Jamie King recently posted…I WANT TO QUIT INSTAGRAMMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:52 pm

      Yay!! You’ve got an eye for good brands, Jamie! hehehe! 🙂

      Reply
  30. rana durham says

    November 8, 2017 at 12:20 pm

    goji berries because i have heard ofv all good benefits.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:52 pm

      And they are so tasty! Thanks for entering, Rana! 🙂

      Reply
  31. Jessie says

    November 8, 2017 at 12:23 pm

    I’ve yet to try goji berries, they look so good!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:51 pm

      You’ll love them, Jessie! 🙂

      Reply
  32. Elle says

    November 8, 2017 at 1:52 pm

    I want to try the organic Goji berries because I have heard great things about them.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:57 pm

      They are delish! Thanks for entering, Elle! 🙂

      Reply
  33. Nicole @ Bento Momentos says

    November 8, 2017 at 2:26 pm

    Ooh I love chocolate so cacao sounds good!
    Nicole @ Bento Momentos recently posted…Wedding Planning – Step 1, done!My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 3:24 pm

      Hi Nicole! It is!! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  34. Mimi says

    November 8, 2017 at 4:29 pm

    Yum!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 8:35 pm

      Thanks for saying hi, Mimi!

      Reply
  35. Patty Vazquez says

    November 8, 2017 at 7:53 pm

    OMG that’s a really hard decision because there all look yummy but I’ll like to try the goji berries because I’ll like to top them on my smoothies and my homemade protein bars yummy .. thanks for the chance ?

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 8:36 pm

      Good choice, Patty! Thanks for entering!

      Reply
  36. Kimberly says

    November 8, 2017 at 7:55 pm

    I would love to try the superfood+ bars! I’m always looking for new healthy snacks and these look delicious!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 8:36 pm

      Me too! And these are good. Thanks for entering, Kimberly!

      Reply
  37. Diana Cote says

    November 8, 2017 at 8:04 pm

    I Am most excited to try the mulberries and golden berries, I am yet to try those. ?

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 8:36 pm

      Yay for berries! Thanks for entering, Diana!

      Reply
      • Diana Cote says

        November 8, 2017 at 9:22 pm

        No, ty! ?

        Reply
  38. Elizabeth says

    November 8, 2017 at 8:08 pm

    Really want to try the cacao nibs! I’ve somehow never tried them but I’m always on the lookout for health chocolate flavors ?

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 8:37 pm

      Ahh yes! They are delish! Thanks for entering, Elizabeth!

      Reply
  39. Sara says

    November 8, 2017 at 8:42 pm

    The golden berries and mulberries look good. I’ve never had either.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 8, 2017 at 9:01 pm

      Yay for berries! Thanks for entering, Sara! 🙂

      Reply
  40. Annette says

    November 9, 2017 at 2:26 am

    I most want to try Goji Berries. I’ve wanted to add them to my smoothie bowls, but haven’t bought any yet.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 9:16 am

      Hi Annette! Ahh yes, goji berries are perfect as a topper for smoothies. Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  41. Marykate says

    November 9, 2017 at 7:12 am

    I’ve been interested in adding superfoods now that we have a busy 2 year old. I want to help teach him about eating healthy, and that health foods can be delicious!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 9:17 am

      Ohhh yes! I bet he would love all the superfood berries! Thanks for entering, Marykate!

      Reply
  42. Pat says

    November 9, 2017 at 7:58 am

    I’ve never tried goji berries, so I would like to give those a try.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 9:17 am

      Great choice, Pat! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  43. Heather @ Polyglot Jot says

    November 9, 2017 at 8:05 am

    Cacao nib, Cacao powder…if it’s cacao I love it hahaha. I love adding it to oatmeal in the morning or to smoothies when I need chocolate in my life!
    Heather @ Polyglot Jot recently posted…5 Truths of Natural ChildbirthMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 9:18 am

      Yay for cacao! I like it too! Have a great day, Heather! Can’t wait to read your post! 🙂

      Reply
  44. Sheena says

    November 9, 2017 at 10:55 am

    I eat cacao (powder and nibs), Maca, and mushrooms and ashwagandha every day. I have never eaten mulberries or golden berries and would LOVE to try them!!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 1:00 pm

      Wow, Sheena! You are a superfood queen already! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  45. Sheila says

    November 9, 2017 at 11:21 am

    Goji Berries! Never tried ’em.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 1:00 pm

      They are delish! Thanks for entering, Sheila! 🙂

      Reply
  46. Cheryl says

    November 9, 2017 at 12:27 pm

    I most want to try Cacao Nibs. I’m a chocolate lover.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 1:02 pm

      Me too, Cheryl! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  47. Sabrina says

    November 9, 2017 at 3:15 pm

    Omg I love their company!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 7:34 pm

      Me too! Thanks for saying hi, Sabrina! 🙂

      Reply
  48. Christine says

    November 9, 2017 at 3:59 pm

    I’d love to try the mama!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 7:35 pm

      The mama? 🙂 hehhe I bet that was a typo?? Thanks for saying hi, Christine!

      Reply
  49. Melanie says

    November 9, 2017 at 6:55 pm

    I really want to try goji berries! I haven’t been able to find them in stores. I once saw a bag at Marshalls but it looked moldy ? Anyway, thanks for the cool superfood info!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 7:36 pm

      Hi Melanie! Moldy goji berries? No good heheh! Thanks for saying hi and entering! 🙂

      Reply
  50. MZiva says

    November 9, 2017 at 7:16 pm

    I love all things chocolate so I am excited to try that nativas organics cacao powder! It’s neat to know superfoods don’t have to be weird and they’re actually tasty things similar to what we already eat!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 9, 2017 at 7:37 pm

      Yesss, Mel! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  51. MZiva says

    November 9, 2017 at 7:17 pm

    I love all things chocolate so I am excited to try that nativas organics cacao powder! It’s neat to know superfoods are actually tasty things similar to what we already eat!

    Reply
  52. Samantha says

    November 9, 2017 at 7:50 pm

    I’d love to try Golden berries, I never have!! And love the benefits for immunity, collagen and premature aging, especially with working night shifts in the ICU, i need all the extra nutrients I can get!!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 10, 2017 at 2:11 pm

      Hi Samantha! Oh wow! You work in the ICU at night? What a tough job — YES, you do need some superfoods! Thanks for entering, lady!

      Reply
  53. Maya says

    November 10, 2017 at 10:31 am

    I’m most excited to try the Mulberries & Goldenberries bc it’s full of Antioxidant, vitamins & minerals and it is anti-aging! I’m already incorporating Goji berries and chia seeds to my diet so mulberries would be an awesome addition to kick start my day! Thanks for the chance of all these SuperFood gems!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 10, 2017 at 2:10 pm

      Hi Maya! So glad you’re already eating some superfoods! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  54. Farrah says

    November 10, 2017 at 12:03 pm

    Yay for goji berries + goldenberries! :] Thanks so much for the giveaway!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 10, 2017 at 2:10 pm

      Of course, Farrah! Hope all is well, lady!

      Reply
  55. MEGAN says

    November 11, 2017 at 4:01 am

    I’d love to try cacao powder in my smoothies!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 11, 2017 at 10:45 am

      Great choice, Megan! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  56. Jess says

    November 11, 2017 at 10:59 am

    I want to try to the cacao

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 12, 2017 at 8:27 pm

      Good choice, Jess! 🙂 Thanks for entering!

      Reply
  57. Julie @ Running in a Skirt says

    November 12, 2017 at 6:12 am

    How delicious! These look so good and love the use of superfoods in them!
    Julie @ Running in a Skirt recently posted…Fashion Friday – Black Boho TopMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 12, 2017 at 8:27 pm

      Hi Julie! Yayyyy for superfoods! 🙂 Hope you’ve been having a great weekend, lady!

      Reply
  58. Casey the College Celiac says

    November 12, 2017 at 8:06 pm

    I’m addicted to chewy fruits lately, so the mulberries and goji berries are calling my name!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 12, 2017 at 8:26 pm

      Hi Casey! For sure — you need these superfoods in your life then. Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  59. Carol says

    November 13, 2017 at 10:24 am

    I add chia seeds to oats and hemp seeds to smoothies. Love the idea of the superfood bars – super convenient!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 13, 2017 at 3:36 pm

      Hi Carol! The superfood bars are SO convenient! And tasty too! Thanks for entering!

      Reply
  60. Dandi D says

    November 13, 2017 at 8:30 pm

    I’d love to try the Goji berries because I’ve never had any before!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 13, 2017 at 9:08 pm

      Thanks for entering, Dandi! The goji berries are delish! 🙂

      Reply
  61. Renata says

    November 14, 2017 at 4:39 am

    I would most like to try the superfood bars to take with me to work as they are handy on-the-go!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 14, 2017 at 8:16 am

      They are super tasty and easy to eat any time. Thanks for entering, Renata! 🙂

      Reply
  62. Raymond says

    November 14, 2017 at 4:45 am

    I’d most enjoy trying the goji berries as they full of healthy antioxidants.

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      November 14, 2017 at 8:15 am

      Hi Raymond! And goji berries are delicious too! Thanks for entering! 🙂

      Reply
  63. Jennifer Berkey says

    November 30, 2018 at 11:46 pm

    Superfoods are super great! I have tried Cacao powder and still it’s my favorite one. Thanks for sharing this post!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      December 1, 2018 at 2:05 pm

      Thanks for reading, Jennifer! 🙂

      Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Friday Favorites #38 - Hungry Hobby says:
    November 10, 2017 at 8:00 am

    […] message we all need to hear  carbs, meat, and pregnancy? Should I buy an Instant Pot? superfoods giveaway What is Skyr anyway? What is safe for your dog on Thanksgiving? App Review: Veg Out Seniors should […]

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  2. Monday Announcements: 11.13.17 says:
    November 13, 2017 at 4:58 am

    […] Navitas Organics Superfood Prize Pack from A Lady Goes West – Ends 11/14/17 […]

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  3. Current faves: Review of The Class, good food and weekly workouts | A Lady Goes West says:
    August 10, 2018 at 2:56 am

    […] to an event with Navitas before and even met the founder (a very nice guy) and worked with them on this post all about superfoods 101. (Fun fact: I actually use at least two Navitas products EVERY single day with my breakfast, […]

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Hi, I'm Ashley. I'm a mom and fitness instructor living in Charlotte, North Carolina. I love to help you live a balanced life with no extremes, making sure you never skip a rest day. A Lady Goes West is where I share my workouts, simple meals, clean beauty tips and wellness insight with you. Find out more about me and stay awhile!

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I've got to be honest, I'm much more of a writer t I've got to be honest, I'm much more of a writer than an Instagrammer and many times I feel like what I want to share doesn't fit well into a grid. But I'm able to bring much more long-form content to my blog each week. Speaking of that, this week, I debuted a new series called "A Lady Goes West Advice Corner" which has been something I've wanted to put together for a while. In this series, I'm taking totally anonymous questions from YOU and giving you some neutral third-party advice on it all. Here are the questions I addressed in the first advice corner edition:
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-“I became a first-time mom last spring and am currently dealing with all things motherhood. How do I deal with my expectations vs. reality of being a mom?" (such a good one, and I've been there)
-“How do you deal with days when you don't love your body? I think we can all relate to looking in the mirror and being disappointed with what we see?" (this happens to us all)
-“How do you deal with comparing yourself to others on social media and not feeling like everyone is doing things better than you?" (spoiler alert: everyone has their issues that you don't see)
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The answers are long, they come from my heart, and I hope they can provide some value to you! If this is something you're interested in, head over to A Lady Goes West today to check it out, and you can submit a question for the next edition.
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Here's the direct link: https://aladygoeswest.com/ask-me-anything-a-lady-goes-west-advice-corner-first-edition/
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Have a great night, friends! And when in doubt, talk it out.
G.I.V.E.A.W.A.Y!🎉 Who doesn't love a collagen g G.I.V.E.A.W.A.Y!🎉 Who doesn't love a collagen giveaway? As a little thank-you for following, I wanted to do a giveaway of one of my favorite products. I've been using Vital Proteins collagen in my morning tea latte for years, and not only does the collagen creamer add a great taste, but it also supports healthy hair, skin, nails and joints too. Today, I'm giving away not only one canister of collagen creamer, but also a canister of collagen peptides to one lucky winner.
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Here's how to enter:
(1) Like this post.
(2) Follow @aladygoeswest and @vitalproteins.
(3) Leave a comment on this post tagging a friend who wants healthy skin and joints.
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You can leave as many comments as you want, and each one serves as an entry. You can earn an additional entry by sharing this post to your stories and tagging me. This giveaway closes on Saturday, February 27. The winner must live in the U.S. And this giveaway is not associated with Instagram. Good luck, and thanks for being here! 🙂 xoxo
HOME! We closed on and moved into our home in Char HOME! We closed on and moved into our home in Charlotte over the weekend, and we're so excited to get settled in our new neighborhood, city and state after many weeks of transition. In honor of this momentous occasion, I thought it would be fun to look back at the places Dave and I have lived together over the last 12 years. Here's what it has looked like -- and each place has been special for different reasons:
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-2009-2012 in a high-rise condo in downtown Orlando, where we lived when we got married.
-2012-2013 in a one-bedroom apartment in South of Market in San Francisco, which was always freezing no matter the time of day or year.
-2013-2014 in a tiny studio apartment in Nob Hill in San Francisco, which was only 550-square-feet, but we could hear the cable cars out of our always-open windows, so that was cool.
-2014-2017 in a two-bedroom townhouse in Walnut Creek, where we brought home both Rudy and Brady and had many sleepless nights.
-2017-2021 in a house that we owned in Pleasant Hill outside of San Francisco, which was across the street from a Starbucks so we went there way too often.
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And now we're here in Charlotte. It's good to be home! I'd love to know: Where do you call home?
Soulmates. ❤️ Whether you’re loving on other Soulmates. ❤️ Whether you’re loving on others or just yourself today, my little crew is wishing you a wonderful Valentine’s Day!
Good additions! Even though I'm all about simplify Good additions! Even though I'm all about simplifying life, I also like adding more good, if there's room for it. And the last year has given me ample opportunity to make some changes and add a lot of good. Here's my super-random list of things I've added to my life in the last year that I now love:
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-Using oat milk as my milk of choice (it's literally the creamiest, and I can’t go back to others now)
-Choosing to be outside as much as possible (can't believe I stayed indoors so much before, never exploring the beautiful Bay Area and now Charlotte until the last year)
-Teaching and taking virtual fitness classes (I was a gym rat for years, and now I actually love to work out at home with my virtual fitness friends)
-Wearing my Apple watch for notifications so I don't always need to be on my phone and tracking some beneficial metrics (I've only had my watch for about 9 months, and I love to check my heart-rate and close my rings)
-Appreciating the ability to work for myself and giving myself friendlier deadlines (I've been my own boss for several years and used to be so strict with my deadlines, until I realized it was stressing me more than it needed to, so now I say no to a lot of things and only do what works well in my life, without adding too much unnecessary stress)
-Shorter workouts (full-hour workouts are a thing of the past for me)
-Wearing more colors (no more black uniforms every day)
-And more!
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I wrote a whole post about this topic on A Lady Goes West this week if this is of interest to you, and you can head on over and check it out. I'd love to know: What's something (random or not) that you've added to your life in the last year that you now love?
Over the weekend, I stepped foot into a big-box gy Over the weekend, I stepped foot into a big-box gym for the first time in more than 11 months. How did I feel about it? Mixed ... When we left California, gyms were still closed, and once we got to North Carolina, I was so used to not going to the gym, I didn't even think about going. After being here a month, I finally decided to get a guest pass at a gym near me, and I went twice. Here are my thoughts on the experience: 
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At first, I felt so excited to drive up and go in and work out in a big space with a lot of equipment and not be at home. But then reality sank in: Even though masks were required and there were signs everywhere reminding people, about half the folks in the gym had their masks off or had them down around their chin. Ummm, not cool. I get it, working out with a mask on sucks, but rules are rules, folks. I also didn't like that it was busier than I expected, and quite a bit of the equipment I wanted to use was occupied. That never happens at home.
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Overall, I'm glad that those who need to get to the gym are getting the opportunity, but right now, I think I'll go back to sweating safely at home for a little while longer. But at least I got my first locker-room selfie in almost a year. I'd love to know. Have you been back to the gym yet?
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A Lady Goes West is a personal blog meant for entertainment purposes only and does not serve as a substitute for professional advice from your own doctor, trainer or nutritionist. While I'm a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, the workouts, food and plans I post are what works for me and may not work for you. Please enjoy these stories and tips from my life, but proceed with caution. Also, know that affiliate links and sponsored posts appear from time-to-time, and I appreciate your support. For more information about how your data is stored, visit my Privacy Policy. Thanks for reading!

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