Superfoods are universally known these days. Each country has its own list of the best superfoods, but there are some superfoods that we all should be eating more. The main difference between regular foods and superfoods is their nutrient content. Superfoods are high in a great number of vitamins and minerals as well as powerful antioxidants that help to fight and prevent many diseases, including heart disease and cancer. Enjoy learning about some of the best superfoods that can help you improve your health for good.
1. Camu camu berries
Camu camu berries are the most potent source of Vitamin C of the superfoods and have been widely used in folk medicine to prevent and treat colds, as well as many other diseases. They have even been used in ancient medicine as an anti-viral remedy, anti-depressant, hair tonic and anti-inflammatory.
Camu camu berries help to strengthen the immune system since they contain 30-60 times more vitamin C than oranges. They are also full of powerful antioxidants and flavonoids that give them a tart flavor similar to a cross between oranges and cranberries. Camu camu berries are fortified with B vitamins and several amino acids. You can add Camu powder to cold drinks, herbal teas or smoothies to reap all their benefits.
2. Goji berries
Another popular superfood that can boost your mood is goji berries. These tiny, bright red berries are rich in essential nutrients and powerful antioxidants. Moreover, Goji berries contain Vitamin C, 18 amino acids, 12% of your daily iron requirements, and 5 essential fatty acids. They originated in Chinese medicine practices and are known to improve blood flow and even boost libido. Add dried goji berries to trail mixes, cereals, smoothies, or make Goji tea.
3. Dandelion
I couldn’t even guess that dandelion is one of the most detox foods and superfoods on the planet. However, don’t pick dandelions in your backyard since they might be coated with weed treatments and fertilizers if you have lawn services to treat your yard. Choose organic dandelion greens or drink organic dandelion herbal tea – one of the easiest ways to get in the powers of this superfood. 1 cup of dandelion leaves has 25 calories and contains 32% of your vitamin C and 112% of your vitamin A needs for the day.
4. Chia seeds
I like chia seeds. These tiny seeds are so energizing, filling and they are high in iron, fiber, Omega 3 fatty acids, magnesium and plant protein. Chia seeds are also very hydrating, making them perfect food for long workouts. Chia seeds can also help you prevent bloating. I add tons of these tiny seeds in my yogurt, oatmeal, kefir and homemade cookies.
5. Flax seeds
Flax seeds are one of the excellent sources of dietary fiber and Omega 3 fatty acids. They also contain phytoestrogens that are good for PMS. Flax seeds are good at preventing and relieving constipation and bloating, and they are a healthy substitution for eggs. I like cold-milled ground flax seeds in homemade pies, homemade treats, and smoothies, but you can use them in any meal you like.
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6. Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the most expensive spices that help prevent inflammation and diseases. I know the bright orange hue seems unappealing, but it signals how nutritious this food is in antioxidants. This spice has the amazing ability to calm the nervous system, soothe skin diseases including psoriasis, prevent PMS, and even fight cancer because of curcumin, an active ingredient that gives it the orange hue and works as anti-inflammatory in the body. Try adding a pinch or even two to your fish or egg dishes, rice dishes, chili dishes and chicken. Turmeric also pairs well with stir-fry veggies, tofu and quinoa.
7. Spirulina
Spirulina is an amazing source of plant protein. It’s plentiful in Vitamin B12, Vitamin A, iron, and is a great source of chlorophyll that treats acne, reduces inflammation, prevents and treats constipation, heals the digestive tract, purifies the blood, and eliminates toxins. One teaspoon of spirulina boasts 70% of your daily iron requirements, 888% of your daily requirements of Vitamin A, 81% of your daily Vitamin B12 requirements, and 4 grams of protein. Studies have found spirulina can help to prevent inflammation in the body. Spirulina also clears the mind and soothes the whole body.
8. Maca
Maca is one of the best foods for your endocrine system, hormones and adrenals. Maca has a sweet, caramel-like essence to it, which makes it delis in energy bars, homemade cereal, smoothies, etc. Maca pairs especially good with chocolate, vanilla and cinnamon. It contains amino acids, vitamins C, B1, E, B2, and minerals, including phosphorous, calcium, zinc, iron and magnesium. It’s also an excellent source of potassium that helps to control your blood pressure and the water balance in your body.
More: 10 Best Foods to Eat to Fight Stress
Do you eat any of these superfoods? Do you believe in their powerful health benefits? Believe it or not, but these superfoods can help you live a longer life. They keep your energy levels high, digestive system and heart healthy, and ward off certain serious diseases that lead to premature aging. Do you consume any other popular superfoods that keep you healthy?
