SUPERFOODS

What would you term a food that is rich in nutrients, packed with antioxidants, and can boost the immune system? What would you think of a food that seems too good to be true? Would you consider a food that is supported by scientific evidence to enhance health and help us fight diseases? Albeit it’s essential to remember that there is yet no medical or legal formality in this aspect to date, these sorts of foods have been loosely termed “superfoods.”

Superfood is a term that is associated with a number of foods being sold today that are found to be nutrient powerhouses. These premium foods are enriched with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols. Consuming these foods have resulted to prolonged life, protect the body from several chronic diseases, and enhance our health. Consider one, or consider them all, to optimize your diet and enhance your health.

Tomatoes – The antioxidant lycopene, which is not easily available in other foods, are found in Tomatoes. Lycopene plays a part in the prevention of certain cancers by lowering cholesterol, and protecting the skin from UV rays. Tomatoes are also packed with fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. This delicious fiber rich slow cooker stew (vegan or omnivore) contains tomatoes in it.

Salmon – Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which cannot be produced by the body itself. These fatty acids are said to reduce the risk of cancer, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and enhance the ratio of good to bad cholesterol. It also has selenium, which stops cell damage, as well as other B vitamins.

Blueberries – This little berry is rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients. The phytonutrients present in this fruit works to neutralize free radicals, which may otherwise cause aging and cell damage. The antioxidants in blueberries can be protective against cancer and may reduce the negative cognitive effects seen in age-related issues such as dementia. Consuming blueberries regularly enhances memory. In addition to that, one cup of blueberries contain 6 grams of fiber, which facilitates reduction of cholesterol levels.

Black Beans – Black beans when added to your diet can be a rich source of protein, which feeds your muscles and organs, without the saturated fat usually found in meat. This superfood is also packed with antioxidants, fiber, and iron.

Chia Seeds – Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and calcium. They are also a great source of fiber that promotes colon regularity and improves heart health. Chia seeds can be a great topping for your healthy smoothies.

Kale – Although kale showed up in the mainstream marketplace quite recently, it has taken the world by storm. It contains a phytonutrient that is found to reduce several types of cancers, including ovarian and breast. Packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, kale is here to stay.

Microgreens – These are baby greens from the vegetable family. And we are well aware that greens are not just incredibly tasty when added onto almost any dish, but they’re also enriched with nutrients. They add a varied range of flavors, considering what you’re eating – spicy, sweet, peppery, etc. They are available in most stores, however, it’s also quite a fun (and cheap) to grow them yourself.

Oats – Oats are rich in all nutrients including magnesium, potassium, phytonutrients, and fiber. The fiber present in oats helps to protect against heart diseases. Magnesium is known to help regulate blood sugars, which is essentially helpful for those diagnosed with diabetes or obesity.

Açaí – This little purple berry has got high levels of antioxidants, in the form of anthocyanins. Anthocyanins help the body to fight against cancer and heart diseases. They also contain oleic acid, which is commonly known as heart healthy fats found in olive oil. Studies have also shown that it can help prevent aging and aid in weight loss. It is necessary to recognize that only the real berry has these health benefits, and not the powdered variety mostly used in smoothies and juices, which lack the nutrients and are packed with sugar.

Cacao/Cocoa Powder – Cacao powder is packed with flavonoids that facilitates in lowering blood pressure and improves blood flow to both the heart and brain. It also has minimal calories and nearly no fat, yet it has a sweet enjoyable taste.

Now do you see why these foods have been coined “superfoods”? The next time you visit the market, don’t forget to toss a few of them to your cart. Besides improving your health it will also be a good buy for your palate.

Irrespective of what you name them, these foods are super! With that being said, the list above can be expanded more; here are some more of your favorite whole foods that fall in the category of “superfoods”: avocados, berries, bananas, quinoa, watermelon, broccoli, spinach, black rice, beans, lentils, flax seeds, mushrooms, cashews, almonds, beets, squash, carrots, sweet potatoes, peaches, apples, cherries – – and, this could just go on and on.