Superfoods are foods that contain a high level of various vitamins, minerals and other components that are beneficial for one’s health. These foods have a great nutritional value and protect us from various diseases. Keep reading in order to find out what are the foods you should definitely include into your diet.
- Acai
This fruit belongs to family of berries and we are all aware of the amazing health benefits of various members of berry family. Acai originate in South American rain forests. It is widely believed that acai berries aid in weight loss and anti-aging process. They are rich in antioxidants in the form of anthocyanins that prevent cancer and protect our heart. Moreover, acai berries are one of rare fruits that contain oleic acid which is a heart-healthy fat usually found in olives. It has more antioxidant level that other commonly eaten berries like cranberries or strawberries. Acai berry is used for the treatment of ulcers, diarrhea and many other infections.
- Goji berries
Goji berries are native to Asia, more precisely Himalayan Mountains, Mongolia and China. Now, they are eaten worldwide due to numerous health benefits. Goji berries contain a high level of Vitamin C, protect our heart health, aid in weight loss, and according to some studies they prevent cancer. Gogi berries are consumed by people on daily basis as it is proved to be a cure for many common problems such as it improves eyesight, hair discoloration, enhances mood, has anti-aging properties, etc.
- Cacoa powder
Yes, this is correct. According to the recent studies, cacoa powder can be safely included into group of super foods. Cocoa powder contains flavonoids which lower blood pressure and improve blood circulation to the brain and heart. One tablespoon of cocoa powder has less than 15 calories and almost no fat. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder showed antioxidant activity in studies that was equivalent or even higher to the antioxidant activity of acai berries, cranberries, blueberries etc. The study that discovered the amazing benefits of cocoa powder was conducted by Hershey Company and findings were published in Chemistry Central Journal.
- Seaweed
Seaweed contains Omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for our overall health. It is also rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, iodine, iron, potassium, and zinc. Some health benefits of seaweed include: improved memory, good eyesight, strong teeth and bones, healthy thyroid function, improved immune system, reduced risk of allergies and infections, lower blood pressure etc. Moreover, seaweed is beneficial for the skin and regular consumption can give us that healthy glow we always want, and it improves the quality of our hair.
- Mangosteens
You have, probably associated this fruit with mangoes, but they aren’t related. The kind of this fruit contains compounds called xanthones which have anti-inflammatory properties and reduce the risk of getting cancer. Mangosteen is a juicy, delicious fruit which is rich in fiber and has no cholesterol.
- Kefir
Kefir is an ancient drink that originated in Russia and is most widely used in Eastern and Southeastern Europe e.g. Balkans region. It is similar to yogurt and slightly sour. Kefir is also more powerful probiotic than yogurt; it has powerful antibacterial properties that protect us from various infections, improves our bone health and lowers the risk of osteoporosis. Moreover, kefir has cancer-fighting characteristics too, improves our digestion, and eases symptoms of allergies and asthma. Another great benefit of kefir is the fact it is well tolerated even by people who are lactose intolerant.
- Avocado
Avocada is originated from Mexico. They are an excellent source of healthy raw fat. Avocado also contains fiber, potassium, Vitamins E and B, and folic acid. Moreover, avocados have the ability to enable one’s body to more efficiently absorb fat-soluble nutrients like alpha and beta-carotene etc.
- Kale
Kale contains antioxidants and fiber. It is, also, one of the best sources of Vitamin A which promotes healthy eyesight and strengthens immune system. One-cup serving of kale has the same amount of Vitamin C as an orange. It is rich in minerals such as potassium, calcium and zinc. Kale is a vegetable and can be consumed on regular basis as it lowers the risk of cancer, high cholesterol and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Kiwi
Kiwis are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants that flush away toxins from our body and protect us from various diseases and infections. Additionally, kiwis have more nutrients that some other fruits and according to a study whose findings were published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition consumption of kiwi promotes sleep due to the fact it also contains serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone that helps induce and maintains sleep.
