The term Superfoods was created to market a healthy lifestyle. Although there are no standard criteria to classify something as a superfood, (which means that anything can be a superfood) they are usually plant-based and possess a variety of nutrients, antioxidants, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins and minerals for a minimal number of calories. Yasss!
The key to eating healthy with superfoods is that they should be natural and unprocessed. Packed food and drinks labelled as superfoods can contain high amounts of added sugars, which takes away their “super”.
The other super thing about them is that because they contain Omega 3, vitamins E, C, A and K, they can help prevent conditions such as heart and kidney disease, improve bone density and strengthen hair and nails, as well as giving you a healthy skin.
If that wasn’t all, you can make these super babies into smoothies and fancy meals (Instagram worthy), or if you are not that really into greens or a good cook, try making an avocado face mask, your skin will thank you.
Here are some of the easiest superfoods you can get:
- Berries: rich in vitamins, antioxidants and fibre.
- Spinach, cabbages and broccoli: vitamins A, C and K, as well as fibre, calcium and other minerals.
- Sweet potatoes: high in potassium, fibre, vitamin C and B6, manganese and copper.
- Eggs: proteins, iron, vitamins and all nine essential amino acids.
- Mushrooms: fibre, potassium, iron and B vitamins.
- Oats: fibre, magnesium, potassium and phytonutrients.
- Yoghurt: calcium, vitamin D and protein.
- Quinoa: potassium, iron and fibre, plus antioxidants and all nine essential amino acids.
- Avocado: high in potassium, omega-3, vitamin E and copper.
- Walnuts: high in omega-3 fatty acid.
Anyway, superfoods may be a little super, but so is other food out there. If you truly want to be healthy, the best option is to go for a balanced meal, get some exercise and drink water, instead of surviving on blueberries and oatmeal!
