Superfoods are the foods that have some medicinal properties in them. These foods or herbs score more in their nutritional value as compared to our staple diet. These offer us with more nutrients as compared to our regular food items.
The foods that are grown under minimum effects of chemicals and pesticides are the organic ones. So, if you are in search of a superfood with its nutritional properties intact as given by nature, you need to choose only the organic ones, preferably in their raw form. They contain low calories and no trans fats. These foods have some medicinal properties in them, which is why they are healing foods in many respects.
Lets check out these superfoods:
1. Goji Berries (red kishmish): Goji berries are known as the best anti-aging dry fruit. It is native to Asia and is widely consumed as a dry fruit. It has high levels of l-arginine and l-glutamine, amino acids, which help in the production of Human Growth Hormone (HGH). The HGH hormone is at its highest levels in the 20s but as the age progresses, the production of this hormone dips tremendously. Goji berries help in producing this hormone, which then helps in protecting DNA from free radical damage and thus, prevents the aging of the body cells.
2. Honey: Honey collected from the wild growing tree’s flowers, unfiltered and untouched by hands work as a superfood. This raw and organic honey is rich in antioxidants, minerals, probiotics, and enzymes. It contains vitamin B9 and is a source of complete protein. Always buy honey from trusted sources, which is unfiltered with bee wings in it (which you can easily filter on your own but it is a mark of your honey being pure).
3. Spirulina: It is a spiral-shaped algae that grows in freshwater lakes in America and Africa. It is often referred to as the queen of protein as this alga converts sunlight into pure protein, carbohydrates, and other minerals. One tablespoon of it contains around 4 grams of protein. It also contains thiamine, riboflavin, copper, and iron. It is available in the form of pills and helps in increasing muscle endurance. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel contains vitamins A,C and E, sulphur, calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium , and chromium, antioxidants, phytochemicals, sterols, lignins etc. It is known to
- Help the immune system in fighting back against potent bacteria and fungal infections.
- Help in losing weight and gaining lean muscle mass.
- Makes skin glowing and radiant, if applied topically on a regular basis.
- Helps in recovering from G.I. diseases like colitis, ulcers and crohn’s disease.
- Helps intestines to absorb more nutrients by dissolving away the layer of mucus over it.
5. Hemp Seeds: Hemp seeds are a rich source of phosphorus, zinc, manganese, vitamin B1 and vitamin B6. After Spirulina, hemp seeds are the second richest source of complete protein in plants. These seeds are a good source of high protein foods for those who are allergic to other high protein food sources like soy and whey. The proteins found in them are easily digestible and do not cause any allergic reaction.
Try making a high protein smoothie and salad dressing by adding dehulled hemp seeds in it. These can also be eaten as a snack.
6. Coconut: The fiber found in the coconut meat maintains lower cholesterol levels in the blood. This protects the heart as well. Coconut meat also controls blood sugar levels. coconut oil if applied topically provides a glowing and radiant skin, all due to its healthy fats. Consumption of coconut meat (10-15 grams), boosts the immune system.
7. Chia seeds: Chia seeds help in recovering from various micronutrient deficiencies. Being a good source of protein and dietary fiber, these seeds help in fighting with hunger pangs by increasing the body’s lean muscle mass. A regular consumption of chia seeds, say upto 10 grams daily, helps in maintaining normal blood glucose levels, normal blood pressure, and also improves your gut’s functionality.
8. Moringa Oleifera: Moringa beats lemons in its vitamin C content. Among carrots and moringa, moringa scores higher in its carotene content. it stands first in its calcium content, when compared with milk and cheese. It is the richest source of iron, even beating spinach in this regard! Its seeds have the ability of maintaining normal levels of both your blood sugar and your blood pressure. Owing to the vast health benefits of moringa, it secures the position of today’s superfood, meeting all of our body’s nutritional demands.
9. Quinoa: It is a great plant source of complete protein. It helps in maintaining a good heart health. being a rich source of dietary fiber, it supports your digestive tract health. It is gluten free, so is a preferable source of complete nutrition among the celiacs. It works as a superfood for those suffering from lactose intolerance, weak bones, anemia, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol levels.
Read More: Quinoa: The Ancient Seed for a Modern Diet
10. Green Leafy Vegetables: These have very low calorie count, due to which, these are an ideal food to be consumed during your weight loss journey. These are a rich source of folate, vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium and potassium. These are a must to be consumed by people suffering from any kind of heart problem, diabetes, anemia, problems with eyesight.
Conclusion:
Superfoods can be added to your diet in any style. Just blend out a superfood of your choice into some new version of a shake or a smoothie. Use a superfood to make your morning cup of tea or create a newer style of salad dressing at home, by using it!
Read Also
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