Lesser Known Superfoods
As more and more nutrition information is released, the general public is becoming more aware of certain "superfoods" that have a multitude of health benefits. Although there is not an official or defined list, there are certain types of foods that are acknowledged as superfoods. The following list will describe the lesser known or less mainstream superfoods.
1. The Acai berry is a small purple berry that
has weight loss and anti-aging properties.
This fruit also contains anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that help
fight cancer and heart disease.
2. The Gogi berry is an orange-red tangy berry
that contain a lot of vitamin C. Chinese
herbalists have utilized this berry to treat circulation and visual ailments
for centuries. This berry also contains
plant-based antioxidants.
3. Cacao/Cocoa Powder are rich in
flavonoids which help lower blood pressure as well as improving blood flow to
the heart and brain.
4. Seaweed
is a sea grown vegetable that contains omega-3 fatty acids which help
boost heart health. This superfood also
contains important minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, and
zinc.
5. Chia Seeds are put in the superfood group because they
are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and calcium.
6. A mangosteen is a fruit that has a thick
purple rind that contains xanthones which are thought to combat cancer and
inflammation.
7. Maca Powder is a root vegetable that
when grinded into a power is said to help undo damage from fatigue and improve
regeneration/repair.
8. Probiotics have
becoming more popular to improve digestive health and boost the immune
system. Kefir is made from fermented milk and is found to have probiotic
compounds.
9. Hemp Seeds are beneficial due to their
high protein and essential amino acid content.
These are needed for growth and repair.
10. Black Garlic is created by fermenting
raw garlic by being exposed to heat and humidity. The nutritional components of garlic have
heart and anticancer benefits, and due to the fermentation can be an important
source of priobiotics.
Fan, Shirley. "11 Superfoods You Should Know
About." Real Simple. Alexia Foods, n.d. Web.
