Wild blueberries pack more antioxidant punch per serving than any other berry, including cultivated blueberries. They also outshine pomegranates and sweet cherries in anti-aging, anti-cancer and heart-healthy properties. Wild blueberries are sweet, tangy and generally smaller than their cultivated cousins. They have a short, six-week harvest time and only grow in certain parts of Maine and Canada. Due to their limited availability, wild blueberries are most readily found frozen, which are great to bake and cook with.

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Hemp seeds are a complete plant-based protein rich in omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. They also contain nervonic acid, which is found in brain cell insulation and decreases your risk of obesity and heart disease, according to The Happiness Diet by Tyler Graham and Drew Ramsey, MD. Williams sprinkles them in salads or mixes them into a morning smoothie.

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Adzuki beans have anti-inflammatory healing factors and assist in kidney and bladder functions—so much so that they're sometimes referred to as the "peeing bean," according to Williams. They're also full of soluble fiber, which keeps you fuller longer. Pair it with a grain to make a complete protein.

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Make Jerusalem artichokes part of your meat-free meals. Also known as sunchokes, they deliver almost 30 percent of your daily recommended value of iron. They also help reduce cholesterol, according to Williams. 

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Seaweed provides a rich source of iodine—hundreds of times more than fish—which is crucial for a healthy thyroid, the gland that regulates metabolism. An underactive thyroid is linked to low energy, poor memory, depression, ADHD, migraines, weight gain, infertility, infection and heart disease, according to The Happiness Diet. Iodine is also necessary for proper brain development.

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Help new brain cells grow, fight inflammation and regulate hunger with coconut oil, which is rich in caprylic acid. Use it when baking to create "flaky pie crusts, crumbly scones and fluffy cupcake icing, all without butter," suggests New York Times food writer Melissa Clark.

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That funny looking root vegetable with nobs and roots that you see in the supermarket is called celeriac, also known as celery root. It's loaded with digestion-promoting fiber, vitamins A, C and K and potassium. Try shredding it and mixing it with a dollop of mayo and a sprinkle of lemon, salt and pepper for a simple spin on celery remoulade, a classic French salad.

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Often referred to as the natural Viagra, maca root boosts libido, sexual function and overall energy. It's native to Peru and mostly sold in pill form here.

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Next: 27+ Age-Defying Eats

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