11 healthy powders with superfood benefits: maca, matcha and more

For calm alertness try...matcha.

Matcha's energy-boosting power comes from caffeine (a teaspoon of this green tea powder contains half the amount of caffeine of brewed coffee). However, Desiree Nielsen, Vancouver registered dietitian and author of Un-Junk Your Diet, adds, "Matcha has an amino acid in it, called L-theanine, which helps to relax you and oppose the effects of caffeine – so it gives you a kind of calm alertness."

For managing hormones try...maca.

This powder is derived from the root of a Peruvian plant, and its most promising health benefits are aiding hormone imbalances and sexual dysfunction. It's also commonly used for an energy boost and fending off osteoporosis.

For a metabolism boost try...goji berry.

Also known as 'wolfberry', goji berry's weight loss powers come from two amino acids (L-glutamine and L-arginine), both known to increase growth hormones and boost metabolism.

For overall nutrition try...bee pollen.

This nutrient-dense powder, made from the pollen that bees collect from plants, is loaded with protein, carbohydrates, omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory) and vitamin B, says Nielsen.

For energy try...ginseng.

Ginseng powder offers well-established energy-boosting and anti-fatigue effects. Bonus: evidence shows it may also improve blood sugar levels and lower the risk of certain cancers.

For increased iron try...moringa.

This mineral-rich powder comes from the leaves of the tropical moringa tree. About 1 1/4 tablespoon contains 120 percent of your daily iron value.

For glowing skin try...raw cocoa.

Raw cocoa powder has richer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties than processed cocoa, and its polyphenols may improve the look of your skin. "There's actual clinical research to show raw cacao improves the microcirculation, meaning it will give you that glow," explains Nielsen.

For disease-fighting powers try...spirulina.

Sourced from blue-green algae, evidence shows spirulina helps support blood sugar and blood pressure levels as well as improve blood fats and athletic performance. Spirulina is also packed with protein and offers anti-inflammatory and anti-viral benefits.

For a vitamin boost try...baobab.

Baobab (an African fruit) powder is a nutritional powerhouse, containing fibre as well as concentrated vitamins. For example, some baobab powders offer 15 percent of your daily iron and 90 percent of your daily vitamin C with only 40 calories, says Nielsen.

For boosted immunity try...propolis.

Research shows that this resin — collected by bees from pinecones and tree buds — has antibacterial and antiviral properties, and may even help fend off the influenza virus. Because of its origins, asthma and allergy sufferers should avoid it.

For concentrated antioxidants try...acai berry.

Acai berry is recognized for its wealth of antioxidants. Nielsen adds that it's high in anthocyanin, which help protect the heart. Look for frozen pulp and freeze-dried acai powder to ensure maximum disease-fighting properties.