21 Jul Top 5 Superfoods
Superfoods are high in vitamin and mineral content which can help keep your body healthier. They include grains, berries, fruit and vegetables which have specific benefits such as boosting your immune system, increasing your metabolism and providing added vitamins to your body. When you incorporate superfoods into a well-balanced diet, you are doing wonders for your heart health, weight loss, energy levels and overall health and wellness.
So what makes these foods ‘super’?
We have selected our top 5 foods that we feel you should be adding to your diet ASAP.
#1 Goji Berries
Goji berries are delicious and a source of carotenoids, particularly zeaxanthin. They have high levels of vitamins A and C and are packed with antioxidants. They have been used in traditional medicine in Asia for over 2000 years, believed to have benefits that promote liver health and anti-aging mechanisms.
#2 Kale
It almost seems cliche these days but yes, kale! Kale is again a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins A and C, isothiocyanates and indoles (phytonutrients). It also has one of the highest sources of calcium found in vegetables. It is a member of the cabbage family, together with broccoli and brussel sprouts, it is the phytonutrients in these vegetables that have generated all this hype.
#3 Quinoa
Quinoa (pronounced ‘kin-wah’) has a glycemic index (GI) value of 53 making it a fab choice for a low GI diet. In addition, it is gluten-free, contains magnesium and potassium, plus a bunch of B group vitamins. This native grain of the Andes of South America has been used as a staple diet item for years. It’s gaining popularity around the world can be attributed to the grain’s protein content and other health benefits. It also has a deliciously nutty flavour and can be added to salads, soups and curries easily!
#4 Spirulina
Spirulina is pretty awesome. Thought to be one of the world’s oldest superfoods, the use of spirulina dates back to the 16th century when the Aztecs harvested ‘blue mud’. In the Sahara Desert, it was named Dhie and harvested in a similar way to the Aztecs. It contains almost 70% protein and provides all of the essential amino acids. Again, this superfood is a rich source of the B group vitamins, chlorophyll, and other essential minerals such as zinc, selenium, and magnesium. This one is great for adding to smoothies, juices or breaky bowls.
#5 Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is known as a ‘green superfood’ rich in chlorophyll. It also contains vitamins A, C and E, iron, calcium, and magnesium. It contains around 30 enzymes and is considered a complete protein containing all essential amino acids. Try adding wheatgrass to a carrot, apple and ginger juice for the ultimate kickstart to your day.