Superfoods, a common term for foods packed to the brim with nutrients your body needs, have gained a lot of attention in the past couple of years. As diet becomes more acceptable as a key, critical factor in a person’s health and wellbeing, millions of Americans are taking a closer look at what they put in their bodies on a day-to-day basis— and many are aware of the big, trendy healthy superfoods, namely: kale, quinoa, acai, coconut oil, and blueberries. In order to deliver your body the nutrients it needs, our nutritionists have identified four relatively newer superfood ingredients to consider adding to your repertory.

Kombucha: bubbly fermented tea

Hailed for its probiotic benefits, Kombucha is a fermented tea drink that’s rapidly becoming more popular – you’ll certainly find it in your local specialty food stores. We’re starting to see kombucha in national chain grocery stores, as well. Kombucha is lightly carbonated and quite tart – the perfect alternative to sodas or artificially flavored waters. As a living food, kombucha is replete with good bacteria: microbes that maintain the health and ecosystem of the gut. Look for kombucha with fewer sugars added – some of the brands have added flavorings that take away from its nutrient density.

Tahini: toasted ground sesame seed butter

Tahini, one of the ingredients in hummus, is a lot of like a nut butter (almond butter, cashew butter), but more savory. Tahini is a favorite ingredient for nutritious, calorie-conscious dressings and dips. Packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, tahini also contains fiber and calcium. It adds a creamy, nutty crunch to anything!  Need a nutritious dressing for your next salad or vegetable and grain bowl? One of our favorite healthy recipes is made of just tahini, apple cider vinegar, and garlic!

Turmeric: anti-inflammatory powerhouse

Turmeric, a spice that’s a relative of ginger, has recently garnered a lot of attention from the medical and integrative wellness communities for its myriad health and anti-inflammatory benefits. The chief chemical in turmeric, curcumin, is often cited as the source for the health benefit. Plus, with a bright yellow-orange hue, it’s a vibrant, zesty ingredient – add it in marinades, dressings, and hummus!

Sardines + anchovies: Nutrient-dense fatty fish

Often the secret ingredient on salty, savory dressings, these small fatty fish are brimming with healthy fats and protein — plus, they’re low in mercury. Sardines and anchovies also deliver essential minerals, like selenium, calcium, sodium, magnesium, choline, folate, and more. Not a fan of fish? When mixed in dressings, the taste of fish gives way to a delicious, meaty saltiness — otherwise known as umami. Buy them at the grocery store (canned, usually in oil) and mince them for a delectably briny bite in your dressings.