Do you know what exactly a superfood is? Foods that are nutrient-dense and that are high in minerals, vitamins, and other healing compounds, are being called superfoods. Check out 8 most popular superfoods that keep you healthy today.
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, and many illnesses. They have even been used in ancient medicine as an anti-viral remedy, an anti-depressant, hair tonic and anti-inflammatory. Camu camu berries have been proven 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 also contain B vitamins and several amino acids. You can add Camu powder to cold drinks, herbal teas or smoothies.
2. Goji berries
Another most popular superfood that keep you healthy is Goji berries. These tiny, bright red berries are rich in lots of nutrients and 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 potent 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 that is 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 since they’re so energizing, filling and they are high in iron, fiber, Omega 3 fatty acids, magnesium and plant protein. They are also very hydrating, so they are perfect for energizing long workouts. Chia seeds are also perfect for helping to prevent bloating.
5. Flax seeds
Flax seeds are one of the great sources of dietary fiber and Omega 3 fatty acids. They also contain phytoestrogens that are good for PMS. Flax seeds also help to reduce constipation and bloating, and they are a good substitution for eggs. I like cold-milled ground flax seeds in homemade energy, homemade treats, and smoothies, but you can do anything with them!
6. Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the most expensive spices that help prevent inflammation and diseases in the body. 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 like 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 great with such foods as stir-fry veggies, tofu and quinoa.
7. Spirulina
Spirulina is one of the best sources of plant protein, along with being high 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’s amazing ability to prevent inflammation in the body. Spirulina also clears the mind and can soothe 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 delish in energy bars, homemade cereal, smoothies, etc. Maca pairs especially good with chocolate, vanilla and cinnamon. Maca 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, which can help control your blood pressure and the water balance in your body.
Do you eat any of these superfoods? Do you know any other popular superfoods that keep you healthy? Share your thoughts, please!