Though there is no official definition of superfoods, they are foods that offer high levels of desirable nutrients. Superfoods are rich in antioxidants, fiber, fatty acids, etc., and are considered beneficial to a person’s health. In addition to being packed with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, they help reduce the risk of heart ailments & cancer. Also, they improve brain function, help lose weight, and provide tons of other health benefits.
According to studies, these healthiest and most nutritious foods pose these four components:
- Excellent source of vitamins, fiber, minerals, and other nutrients
- Rich in antioxidants & phytonutrients such as vitamins A, E, and beta-carotene.
- Help reduce the risk of cancer, heart diseases, and other medical conditions
- Readily available
Each superfood has different nutritional properties. Overall, they are associated with heart health, cancer prevention, strong immunity, lower cholesterol, etc. Furthermore, taking superfoods as part of daily nutritional intake is excellent but only when consuming a healthy, balanced diet. Check out the 11 best superfood companies.
Why do you need Superfoods?
Superfoods have grabbed massive attention in the health industry. Everyone is recommending superfoods for a healthier life, which has created a lot of buzz on the internet. Superfoods are nutritious foods packed with vitamins and minerals, promoting a balanced diet. Below are some of the “super benefits” that these “superfoods” provide:
High amount of antioxidants
Packed with high amounts of antioxidants, Superfoods protect your body from free radicals and germs. They help prevent cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Further, they also flush out toxins from your body and keep your organs healthy. Some antioxidant superfoods are Beetroot, Wheatgrass, Kale, etc.
Rich in nutrients
Superfoods are high in nutritional value that keeps bacteria away from your body. They promote weight loss, reduce inflammation, and also boost energy. Besides, it is essential to have a balanced diet with adequate nutrients and minerals.
Immunity & Energy Booster
As superfoods are high in vitamins, they help strengthen and boost your immunity. Also, they protect your body from cold, flu, sinus, etc. They also have a positive effect on blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Apart from this, Superfoods boost energy levels and also reduce your cravings. This also cuts down your calories and promotes healthy weight loss.
Enhances your Skin
Superfoods are highly beneficial in brightening up your skin and preventing acne, pimples, etc. Their alkalizing property reduces redness and puffiness and makes your skin even. The best part is that they also prevent your skin from aging.
List of Superfoods: Foods That Are Good For You
Here are some of the best foods that may be worthy of the superfood title:
Berries
Loaded with flavonoids and fiber, berries are naturally sweet. Their rich colors mean they are packed with high amounts of antioxidants and disease-fighting nutrients. Further, berries can help lower the risk of heart attacks. Add to yogurt, cereals, smoothies, or eat plain for a snack. The category includes Acai Berries, Blueberries, Goji Berries, Raspberries, etc.
Leafy Green
Dark & leafy greens are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, as well as several phytochemicals. Additionally, they add fiber into the diet and may prevent cancer. They are also high in vitamin K and folate, which are good for bone health and promotes heart health. There are numerous greens to choose from, including, Spinach, swiss chard, kale, arugula, collard greens, mustard greens, etc. Moreover, use them in salads or add greens to soups
Pumpkin
Among its various health benefits, pumpkin is packed with antioxidants and potassium that help prevent heart disease. Pumpkin is rich in lutein & zeaxanthin, antioxidants that protect your eyes from age-related issues. Add pumpkin to your diet and also eat pumpkin seeds which are packed with health benefits of their own.
Lentils
These low-cal legumes are high in protein, which is vital for cellular repair. They are also loaded with folate, iron, and potassium, making them a suitable alternative for meat. Legumes are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein. Besides, studies show they can help reduce the risk of heart disease. This broad category includes kidney, black, red, as well as soybeans and peas.
Whole Grains
Whole grains contain several vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. In addition, they are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Studies show they help lower cholesterol levels and protect against heart disease and diabetes.
Chia seeds
These small seeds are a good source of fiber, protein, and antioxidants. As well as vitamins and minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and zinc. At just 100 calories per ounce, they are also a low-calorie food. Toss them into a smoothie or oatmeal, or add a healthy punch to chia seed muffins.
Fish
Fish is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which prevent heart disease. Buy fresh, frozen, or canned Fish. Apart from this, Fish with the highest omega-3 content are salmon, tuna steaks, mackerel, etc.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a probiotic full of good bacteria that support gut health. These “good bacteria” help protect the body from more harmful bacteria. It is also a good source of calcium and protein. Besides, yogurt is associated with cancer prevention and immune system stimulation.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are bursting with the antioxidant lycopene, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. They are a major dietary source of lycopene that reduces the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes are root vegetables and are excellent sources of beta carotene and many other vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. They have significant amounts of potassium, fiber, vitamin C and B6, manganese, and copper.
Flaxseed
Flaxseeds are small tiny seeds that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. They are an easy alternative to incorporate into your diet. Sprinkle a couple of teaspoons into your oatmeal or smoothies or onto salads.
What is Green Superfoods?
Green Superfoods include green leafy vegetables. Plus, other veggies like Avocados, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and things like spirulina, wheatgrass, etc. In addition to smoothies and juice, Green Superfood Powders are also popular. These supplements are composed of various greens, plus other fruits & vegetables. Moreover, they are an easy way to work more of those ingredients into your diet. Start your day with these superfood green powders and get infinite health benefits.
Furthermore, Superfoods greens powders are dietary supplements that help you reach your daily recommended vegetable intake. Greens powders can support your body’s immunity, energy levels, detoxification, and more. These superfood greens are generally low in calories but high in minerals, including selenium, iodine, and vitamins A, C, and K. And plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions.
Bottom Line on Superfoods: The Best Foods For The Health
If you want to eat healthily, you have options: Paleo, Keto(Checkout Best Keto Subscription plan), vegetarian, or vegan. However, you might do it all the way by loading up on Superfoods. Usually, plant-based superfoods are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals and come with high nutrient density. These are foods that are especially healthy for you, and there are dozens of them. Next time you are preparing a meal or eating a snack, turn to these healthiest foods for the extra benefits.
