13 Exotic Health Foods You Have to Try!

You may not recognize the names or appearance of these foods, but you should definitely give them a try. If you're feeling adventurous, munch on some of these exotic treats with some awesome health benefits.

Jicama

A root vegetable indigenous to the Americas, jicama has a crunchy texture and sweet taste. It contains potassium, iron and vitamins B-6 and C, in addition to soluble fiber, and is low in fat and sodium. It is eaten raw and can be added to fruit salad.

Chia Seeds

These are the tiny black seeds of the Salvia Hispanica plant from South America. Rich in vitamins and minerals, they are also loaded with antioxidants, fiber and Omega-3 fatty acids. They can be spread on top of yogurt or cereal.

Cherimoya

Native to South America, cherimoyas taste like a cross between pineapple and banana. Though they are higher in calories than other fruits (176 per serving), they come loaded with vitamin C and beneficial fiber.

Persimmon

Technically a berry not a fruit, persimmons are bright orange in color and very sweet when ripe. They pack a lot of vitamin A, vitamin C, antioxidants and minerals. Pair them with something tart to offset the sweetness.

Carambola

Also called star fruit, it has a sweet flavor and a texture resembling that of a cucumber. It is low in calories and high in fiber and flavonoids.

Black Garlic

It looks like white garlic that has gone very, very bad, but black garlic gets its color from being fermented and aged. It contains twice the antioxidants as regular garlic, making it great for bolstering the immune system.

Turmeric

This spice’s principal health benefit is that it helps reduce inflammation, the chronic version of which can be very damaging and is associated with serious illnesses. It can be added to lentils, rice and eggs.

Farro

Common in Italy, farro is a whole grain with a nutty flavor. It can be used for risotto and soups. It is a complex carbohydrate (healthier than a simple carbohydrate such as sugar) and also contains minerals and fiber.

Chayote

A pear-shaped squash with an edible pit, chayote is loaded with fiber and vitamin C and is a good source of folate, which is necessary for everyone but essential for pregnant women. Like other squash, it can be steamed or baked.

Gai Lan

Also called Chinese broccoli, it has a similar shape but is much leafier. It provides needed potassium, calcium and iron, in addition to vitamin C and vitamin A.

Adzuki Beans

These red beans are originally from China and are often an ingredient in Asian desserts. They are low in calories and provide fiber and protein. For those concerned about gas, they are also easier to digest than other beans.

Kukicha Twig Tea

Boasting many of the same benefits as green tea, kukicha twig tea is made from the roasted twigs of the Camellia sinensis bush. It contains very little caffeine and has six times the calcium found in milk.

Seaweed

There are various forms of this algae but they all provide an excellent source of antioxidants and iodine. This can be practical for those cutting down on sodium and therefore using less iodized table salt.