Have you ever wondered what the importance and benefits of superfoods are? Or perhaps how to use them in order to reap their benefits? Regarded as “super” because of their all-encompassing benefits, they are understood to be good for you in every way. But are these so called Superfoods really super as believed, or are they just called super for promotional purposes?
Superfood is a general term used to describe a food that has health benefits beyond satisfying energy needs. There is no official scientific or regulatory definition, so superfood is a matter of interpretation to some degree. A superfood is considered to be very good for your well-being and that may even help some medical conditions. The cautious distinction should be made that the word superfood is a non-medical term. This means it was coined basically for the purpose of its general believe that it is excellent or exceptional.
The truth is the key to good health is simply eating a healthy diet. It is necessary to consume a variety of different foods to make sure your body has all the vitamins and minerals it requires. No one food can guarantee you optimal health without a mix of balanced diet and other tenets of a healthy lifestyle. A diet filled with vegetables, fruits, nuts & seeds, and lean meat is healthy. This makes superfoods are a good idea to incorporate into your diet.
Superfoods are not only healthy for you, but they taste amazing as well. Although, not everyone shares the same taste buds, there is an option to please choosy eaters. Below, we list 6 types of superfoods and also give suggestions on how to use them!
What are the Types, Importance and Benefits of Superfoods?
There are many foods that are deliberated to be superfoods with avocados, berries, salmon, and others on the list. It appears that there are numerous foods all from varying food groups classified as superfoods. Superfoods are loaded with nutrients critical to good health and a sound mind. They are said to contain high levels of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and are great foods to eat to support your immune system.
1. GREEN TEA
Green tea is made from the Camellia sinensis plant and it is calorie-free. The polyphenols in green tea work to neutralise the mechanisms that cause harm to the body. It is vastly rich in antioxidants such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and theogallin. They help to reduce harmful free radicals and prevent degenerative illnesses within the body.
Green tea has natural antibiotic and anti-fungal properties, and provides several benefits like boosting your immunity and detoxification. Even though it contains caffeine, green tea is wonderful for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system and good digestive well-being.
Suggestion: Although Green tea is conventionally enjoyed hot, you can also make green tea and put it in the fridge with some portions of lemon for a revitalizing drink.
2. Types, Importance and Benefits of Superfoods: QUINOA
Quinoa is an excellent vegetable source of protein and contains iron and potassium. It is naturally gluten free and is fast becoming one of the best superfoods you can include in your diet. This grain-like product is actually a relative of spinach and beets, and suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Suggestion: Quinoa can be used in various recipes like porridge for breakfast or mixed in a salad for lunch. It is quite versatile and very satisfying.
3. GINGER
Ginger is another “superfood” that contains a high nutrition density. It The Rhizome (ginger root) is the source of its spicy flavor. Gingerol is a natural bioactive component of ginger, which is responsible for activating the spice receptors of your tongue
In addition to being a wonderful spice for cooking, ginger has powerful health benefits— and for good reason. It can also help relieve different types of nausea, such as seasickness, post-surgery nausea. Ginger has very powerful anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant effects. It is also useful for battling infections as it contains high levels of vitamin C, zinc, phosphorous , and sodium.
Suggestion: You can make fresh ginger tea with a little lemon, which is beneficial if you have a flu. You can also chop it finely and add in your next stir fry.
4. SALMON
Salmon is a healthy source of protein that’s low in fat and has incredible health benefits. Its rich combination nutrients like omega-3’s, selenium, and vitamins A and D are vital for boosting the immune system. It’s an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which helps maintain heart and eye health.
Suggestion: It can be grilled on the barbecue, and served with some potatoes!
5. Types, Importance and Benefits of Superfoods: AVOCADO
Avocados are nutrient-dense foods packed with loads of nutrients like folic acid, Omega 3, magnesium, potassium, lutein and fiber. It is also rich in A, C, D, E, K vitamins and B Group vitamins. Avocados are also filled with healthy monounsaturated fat, which makes it a great superfood. The monounsaturated fat present in avocados contains oleic acid, which helps lower your cholesterol levels. Although avocados are rich in healthy fat, they are relatively low in calories. Its healthy fat and fiber content means it will keep you feeling full.
Suggestion: Guacamole is a popular way to use avocado. It is best enjoyed with salt, pepper, and a bit of lemon.
6. MIXED BERRIES
Berries are delicious, nutritious, and provide a number of impressive health benefits. These enjoyable fruits come in different varieties and colors like blackberries, raspberries, blueberries and strawberries. Beyond the popular berries listed, there are also huckleberries, acai berries, mulberries, and many more! All berries contain some fiber, which means that they are low in carbs. Consuming berries with fiber content may lead to reduced hunger and increased feelings of fullness.
Berries are a great source of antioxidants and flavonoids. They are high in vitamin C, potassium and possess anti-inflammatory properties. It contains powerful antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and resveratrol. Berries can lower your cholesterol, reduce your risk of heart disease and aid health concerns involving weight loss.
Suggestion: Everyone loves a yummy smoothie bowl! Pancakes or muffins loaded with berries, are equally as nutritious for you as a smoothie!
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