Baobab: the new superfruit

by Christina Agnew,


We've been adding baobab powder to our smoothies for a while now. After we saw it mentioned in Vogue recently we knew it was about to be noticed in a big way. We met up with Andrew Hunt, founder of Aduna, to ask him about the benefits of baobab and how he came to be involved with this amazing fruit. We'll be posting our own smoothie recipe using baobab soon.

Aduna close up

What is baobab and where does it come from?

The baobab tree grows in Africa, where it is known as ‘The Tree of Life’. One of its miracles is that it produces the only fruit in the world that dries naturally on the branch. We just harvest, remove the seeds and sieve to create a 100% natural, exceptionally nutrient-dense raw wholefood.

What is the no.1 difference that baobab can make to our health? 

Baobab is the closest thing there is to a natural multivitamin and is almost fifty percent fibre, so it has a whole raft of health benefits. The most common benefit people report is increased energy, but improved digestive health might be the most important.

How can taking baobab benefit skin health? 

Good digestive health is one of the most important factors in maintaining healthy skin. Baobab also happens to be the highest ranking fruit in the antioxidant table with almost five times the antioxidant capacity of fresh acai berries and six times the vitamin C of an orange, so it’s pretty powerful at stimulating collagen production and fighting free radicals too.

Is baobab safe to use for children and pregnant women?

Absolutely. Aduna baobab fruit pulp powder is literally one hundred percent pure fruit, which means it is safe for anyone. In fact, in Africa one of its traditional uses is as a substitute for mother’s milk. This stands up to scrutiny as a result of its uniquely broad nutrient profile, which includes being a rich, non-dairy source of calcium. It’s also high in iron.

How did you personally get involved in the baobab story?

I discovered baobab while I was living in The Gambia, West Africa, where it is served as a delicious drink on the beach and at wedding and naming ceremonies. I loved it for its taste long before I knew anything about the health benefits. I’ve been taking it ever since.

Baobab fruit

How do you see the growth of baobab making a positive impact in Africa?

There is no such thing as a baobab plantation; every tree is community-owned and wild-harvested. The trees thrive in the driest and remotest parts of Africa, which are also the most challenging environments for people to survive in. Our vision is to create a global demand for baobab and, if we are successful, an estimated eight to ten million rural households stand to benefit, by supplying the demand from a crop that already exists.  

What are the best ways to eat baobab?

The most important thing is to find a way of integrating baobab into your daily regime. If you are a lover of daily smoothies then two teaspoons of baobab will take you to heaven. If not, the next best thing is to use it as an alternative to sugar to stir into unsweetened yoghurt, museli or porridge. One small tip – don’t try and mix it straight into water. As it is completely unprocessed and exceptionally high in fibre it doesn’t dissolve instantly!


Jemma Kidd on her Rest Day & other tips

by Christina Agnew, , link

When make-up artist and former model Jemma Kidd booked a Rest Day for herself and her husband recently, we couldn't resist asking her a few questions about beauty and health.

Jemma Kidd

How did you find your recent Rest Day?

I did the Beauty Rest Day because I am always interested in new ways to nourish my skin from the inside. I found the Rest Day very easy and simple to follow. I wasn't hungry at all and loved the juices.

What is your philosophy for keeping healthy?

I firmly believe that a healthy gut is the cornerstone of a healthy body.

Do you take any nutritional supplements?

Yes I take Udo’s Choice Ultimate Oil Blend, added as a dressing to salads or in a juice. I also take probiotics and have fresh organic juices daily. If I feel a cold coming on then I reach for elderberry extract.

What are your top tips for achieving beautiful, healthy skin?

 I think hydration is really important so I drink 1.5 – 2 litres of water daily. Your skin also needs good oils to be properly hydrated from within. The Udo’s oil has made a huge difference to my skin. I base my diet around fresh organic food. Lastly, I have regular colonics to keep my gut in great condition.

What are your make up bag essentials for people who are short of time?

I'm a big fan of BB creams. I also rely on Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliner, Benefit They’re Real Mascara and Bobbi Brown pot rouge for lips and cheek in powder pink. 


3 Easter eggs worth eating

by Christina Agnew, , link

We are all about balance at Radiance. We are more than happy to dig into pudding at a restaurant or have a few squares of chocolate after lunch. We just try to make sure that our treats are really worth it - high quality, nutritious and satisfying. So we will definitely be cracking open an Easter egg come 31st March. Here is what we will be buying.

inSpiral Artisan Raw Easter Egg: Morello Cherry 

Made with 100% raw, natural and vegan ingredients - sweetened with only coconut sugar and superfoods lucuma and yacon.

 

 

Booja Booja Stem Ginger Truffle Egg

From one of our all time favourite chocolate makers, this is the egg to go for if you want something that looks beautiful, as it's hand-painted by artists in Kashmir.

 

Montezuma Organic Dark Chocolate Eco Egg

Billed as the most eco friendly Easter egg around, this has special biodegradable packaging and supports the Butterfly Conservation charity.



Established London 2009
100% Organic Cold-Pressed
Delivered across the UK