Superfoods are foods that are classified as extremely nutritionally beneficial. Therefore, they would be good for health. Blueberries, salmon, kale and acai are just a few examples of foods that have received the “superfood” label.
However, there are no set criteria for determining what is and what is not a superfood, according to the American Heart Association. Superfoods contain a variety of nutrients such as antioxidants.
see more
Biology teacher fired after class on XX and XY chromosomes;…
Cannabidiol found in common plant in Brazil brings new perspective…
They also have healthy fats, which help prevent heart disease, diabetes and digestive problems. Consuming foods that are full of nutrients (as many so-called superfoods are) is certainly a good idea.
However, the key to a healthy diet is eating a variety of nutritious foods in the right amounts.
Blueberries often top many superfood lists because they are rich in vitamins, soluble fiber and phytochemicals. But the same nutrients found in blueberries are also found in many other types of fruit, including strawberries.
A study published in 2013 in the journal Circulation found that a high intake of phytochemicals known as flavonoids – which are found in blueberries, as well as other types of berries – may reduce the risk of certain heart conditions in women young people.
Chard, kale, mustard, spinach and cabbages are also on the list. These dark veggies are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, calcium, and other minerals.
Sweet potatoes and winter squash are also often on the superfood list, for similar reasons as those listed for leafy greens. Both types of foods are generally excellent sources of fiber, vitamin A, and more.
Beans and whole grains are also included on superfood lists. Beans are a low-fat source of protein. They contain insoluble fiber, which lowers cholesterol, provides a greater feeling of fullness and loads of vitamins and minerals.
Nuts and seeds contain high levels of minerals and healthy fats. While these are common additions to superfood lists, the downside is their high calorie content.
Salmon, sardines, mackerel and some other fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are supposed to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Any list of superfoods will certainly contain an “exotic fruit”. This could include acai, dragon fruit, or pomegranate.
These fruits may be healthy, but scientific studies do not show that they are healthier than others. Some of these fruits can be particularly dense in certain types of nutrients. Pomegranates, for example, contain ellagitannins (ellagic acid), which may have anticancer properties.
Scientists claim that the use of the term "superfood" is largely a marketing tool. Still, farmers rely heavily on marketing strategies and lobbyists to shape the public's perception of their products.
Another general criticism of using the term “superfood” is that while the food itself may be healthy, the processing may not be. For example, when green tea is freshly brewed, it has several antioxidants. Commercially produced bottled green teas, however, are often brewed with large amounts of sugar.
Many types of acai “super juices” may also include large amounts of added sugar.
Likewise, whole grains are often processed to make them more palatable, which makes them less healthy. For example, instant oatmeal is just as unhealthy as white bread, as it quickly raises blood sugar levels.