There is no universally accepted definition of superfoods, but nutritionists generally define it as a food that offers superior nutrition for its category.
Superfoods are nutrient-dense and offer a lot of nutrition for the calories they contain. Superfoods don’t all meet this standard. And superfood trends come and go.
Superfoods have their place. While a balanced diet can be beneficial for heart health, it is not the only thing you should do. You could give these a try.
Beetroot
Beetroot has become a popular food, particularly when it comes down to performance in sports. Beetroot, which is rich in nitrates and beetroot-juice are being studied to see if they have an effect on endurance exercises. Some studies suggest a performance boost, while others show no effect.
Whole beetroots can add a vibrant color to even the dullest dishes. They are rich in vitamins, antioxidants and dietary fiber. Roasted, baked or blended into smoothies, they’re delicious.
Blackcurrants
Blackcurrants contain polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Blackcurrant consumption has also been shown to increase blood flow. The majority of studies looked at blackcurrant (as a supplement), however, it is always better to eat whole foods if possible.
These compounds are found in other berries, which are delicious to eat on a regular basis.
Cold-pressed nuts oils
The oil is extracted without the use of heat or solvents. There are many oils available including macadamia, cashew, and walnut. They all contain different fats, with varying degrees of stability. Macadamia oil, for example, has a higher monounsaturated fatty acid content and is more stable.
It’s not just one type of oil or food that is good for us, but the variety in our diet. They can add flavour to your food, but don’t offer any additional health benefits.
The whole nut has the most health benefits, because it contains not only the healthy oils but also fibre, a tiny amount of proteins and vitamins and minerals.
Watermelon seeds
The seeds of watermelon are high in fat, proteins, and classified as seed oils. In parts of Africa and Middle East the oil is extracted and used to cook. Other parts of the globe use them as a garnish, soup thickener, or as a snack.
Overall, the protein quality is moderate. They can be an excellent source of protein if you get your amino acids from other sources. Also, they contain zinc , and iron. Watermelon seeds, in general, are not more special than any other seed.
Algae
Algae are single-celled organisms that live and grow in water. It creates energy by photosynthesising, which means it uses sunlight to do so. This is why it’s of interest for human health.
Some companies also use marine algae to make omega-3 supplements. Omega-3 supplements can be helpful with our current diets. However, if you have a poor diet, the supplement will not do much to improve your health in the long run.
If you don’t like seafood, an algae supplement may be a good alternative. For individualised advice, you should always consult a nutritionist.
Offal
Organ meat is the term used to describe internal organs or entrails that are consumed as food. We eat the organs and entrails of an animal, which are not the muscles.
Steak: muscle. Chop: muscle. Loin: muscle.
Heart: offal. Liver: offal. Tongue: offal. Spleen: offal.
Offal has a variety of nutritional compositions. However, most offal products are a good source all-about-protein, B vitamins, phosphorus. However, most of them are good sources of proteins and B vitamins.
Offal is both inexpensive and nutritious, so it will likely become more popular over the next few years.
Turmeric
Turmeric, a yellow-orange spice, is commonly used to flavor curries. It has grown so popular, that turmeric lattes and turmeric tonics, as well as other concoctions, are now widely available. Although the evidence for its use as an alternative cancer treatment is inconclusive, it has been widely promoted.
Curcumin is the main component that has been studied, and studies have shown health benefits in lab models. Turmeric contains only 3% curcumin. Due to curcumin’s low bioavailability, short half-life and poor bioavailability, we absorb a very small amount of turmeric when we consume it.
While you may enjoy curries and turmeric lattes, they won’t save you from poor health – especially if your rest of the diet is not healthy.
A balanced diet that is rich in whole foods and a variety will make you healthy. If you are concerned about your diet or health, always speak to your doctor.