In today’s fast-paced world of convenience, it’s easy to lose sight of how our ancestors nourished themselves for millennia. Ancient cultures relied on nutrient-dense, natural foods to sustain their energy, vitality, and longevity. These so-called ancestral superfoods not only provided essential nutrients but also laid the foundation for optimal health.

At The Simple Pursuit, we’re all about going back to basics—embracing simplicity, whole food ingredients, and a connection to our roots. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most powerful ancestral superfoods, discuss why they’ve been forgotten in modern diets, and offer practical ways to reintroduce these nutrient-packed foods into your life.

The Wisdom of Our Ancestors

Our ancestors didn’t have the luxury of packaged, processed, or fast food. Instead, they relied on whole, organic foods sourced directly from the earth. Their diets were inherently rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants—nutrients that modern processed foods often lack. But beyond just surviving, these ancestral superfoods helped people thrive, maintaining their energy levels, supporting mental clarity, and promoting long-term health.

Why Modern Diets Are Lacking

Despite the abundance of food today, many people are still nutritionally deficient. The rise of industrialized farming, mass food production, and a heavy reliance on convenience foods has stripped much of our diet of essential nutrients. Many of the superfoods that sustained our ancestors have been replaced by sugar, artificial ingredients, and unhealthy fats. This shift has contributed to the modern epidemic of chronic health issues, such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

What Are Ancestral Superfoods?

Ancestral superfoods are nutrient-rich whole foods that have been consumed by traditional cultures for thousands of years. These foods were prized for their ability to sustain life, boost immunity, and promote healing. While they vary across different regions of the world, the common thread is their abundance of essential nutrients, and they often require minimal processing, making them as close to nature as possible.

Top Ancestral Superfoods We’re Missing Today

Let’s explore some of the most important ancestral superfoods that have been left behind in the modern world and why it’s time to bring them back.

1. Organ Meats

While the thought of eating organ meats might not be appealing to everyone, our ancestors understood their immense nutritional value. Organ meats, such as liver, heart, and kidneys, are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, iron, and zinc. Liver, in particular, is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet.

Why We Need It Today:

Organ meats are a powerhouse of bioavailable nutrients that are often lacking in modern diets. They can help boost energy levels, support brain health, and improve immune function.

How to Incorporate It:

Start small by adding liver into ground beef or making a nutrient-rich pâté. If the taste is a hurdle, try supplementing with desiccated liver capsules made from grass-fed animals.

2. Bone Broth

Bone broth is one of the most ancient healing foods. Made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues for hours, bone broth is rich in collagen, gelatin, and amino acids like glycine and proline. It’s been used for centuries to support gut health, joint function, and overall healing.

Why We Need It Today:

Bone broth helps repair and maintain the gut lining, supports joint health, and provides a rich source of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. With so many processed foods causing inflammation, bone broth’s healing properties are more important than ever.

How to Incorporate It:

You can make bone broth at home by simmering bones (from grass-fed, organic sources) with water, herbs, and vegetables for at least 12 hours. Enjoy it as a warm, comforting drink, use it as a base for soups, or add it to savory dishes for extra flavor and nutrition.

3. Fermented Foods

Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir were staples in the diets of our ancestors, offering a natural way to preserve food and improve digestion. These foods are rich in probiotics—beneficial bacteria that support gut health.

Why We Need It Today:

With the rise of processed foods and overuse of antibiotics, many people’s gut health has suffered. Fermented foods help restore balance to the gut microbiome, promoting better digestion, immune function, and even mental health.

How to Incorporate It:

Start by adding a small serving of sauerkraut or kimchi to your meals, or enjoy a glass of kefir or kombucha. Look for unpasteurized versions in the store to ensure you’re getting the full benefit of live probiotics.

4. Wild-Caught Fish

For thousands of years, wild-caught fish was a staple in the diets of coastal communities. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential minerals, wild fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines were a key source of nourishment.

Why We Need It Today:

Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. However, many people today consume more omega-6 (found in processed vegetable oils) than omega-3, leading to an imbalance that can cause chronic inflammation.

How to Incorporate It:

Aim to eat wild-caught fish, like salmon or sardines, at least twice a week. If fresh fish is hard to come by, canned versions can be just as beneficial, as long as they’re from sustainable sources and free from harmful additives.

5. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds have long been a staple of ancestral diets, providing healthy fats, protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are some of the most nutrient-dense options.

Why We Need It Today:

Nuts and seeds offer plant-based protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants that support heart health, brain function, and skin health. They’re also a great source of energy, making them perfect for on-the-go snacks.

How to Incorporate It:

Snack on raw or lightly toasted nuts, add seeds to smoothies or salads, or use them to make homemade nut butters. Remember to choose organic and avoid varieties that are coated in unhealthy oils or sugars.

6. Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets were dietary staples for our ancestors. These vegetables are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support digestion and provide lasting energy.

Why We Need It Today:

Root vegetables are nutrient-dense, filling, and low on the glycemic index, meaning they provide a slow release of energy without spiking blood sugar. Their fiber content also promotes healthy digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied.

How to Incorporate It:

Roast a mix of root vegetables with olive oil and herbs for a nutritious side dish, or add them to soups and stews for extra depth of flavor.

How to Bring Ancestral Superfoods Back into Your Life

Now that we’ve covered some of the most powerful ancestral superfoods, how can you start incorporating them into your daily routine? Here are a few simple tips to get started:

1. Start Small

If you’re not used to some of these foods, it’s okay to start with small amounts. Try adding a little fermented food to your meals or swapping out processed snacks for nuts and seeds. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually increase your intake of these nutrient-dense foods.

2. Focus on Quality

When choosing ancestral superfoods, always prioritize quality. Opt for grass-fed, pasture-raised, and wild-caught whenever possible. The nutritional profile of these foods is far superior to their factory-farmed counterparts, and they’re less likely to contain harmful additives or pesticides.

3. Make It Fun

Incorporating ancestral superfoods doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Get creative in the kitchen—try new recipes, experiment with flavors, and involve your family in the process. Making these foods a regular part of your life should be enjoyable, not restrictive.

Final Thoughts on Ancestral Superfoods

While modern conveniences have made our lives easier in many ways, they’ve also distanced us from the natural, nutrient-rich foods that sustained our ancestors for generations. By reintroducing ancestral superfoods into your diet, you’re giving your body the nourishment it truly craves.

At The Simple Pursuit, we believe that eating clean and returning to our roots doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little knowledge and intention, you can easily bring these powerful foods back into your life and enjoy the benefits of increased vitality, better digestion, and long-term health.

What ancestral superfoods are you excited to try? Let us know in the comments below, and feel free to share your favorite recipes and tips for incorporating these nutrient-packed foods into your daily routine!