The term "superfood" has been thrown around a lot lately, but what does it actually mean? A food is classified as a superfood due to its superior antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, mineral and vitamin content, all within a healthy amount of calories.
Although superfoods are not scientifically recognised as a class of food, it's not all hype. There are indeed foods that provide maximum nutritional value when consumed frequently.
However, these superfoods need to be incorporated into an overall healthy diet to reap the full benefits. Here are some superfoods you can easily add to your diet for a healthier life:
MushroomsMushrooms may be simple, but they have a whole host of benefits. They are rich in anti-inflammatories and essential antioxidants such as glutathione and ergothioneine, which help prevent chronic and degenerative diseases.
In fact, a scientist has fought for ergothioneine to be recognised as an essential vitamin, proving why mushrooms belong on this list. This should convince you to add more of them to your veggie stir-fries.
TurmericTurmeric is already known to have wonderful beauty and skincare benefits. It's also an ingredient that enhances the flavour of stews and curries.
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It is also considered a superfood because of its curcumin, a powerful antioxidant that prevents oxidative stress and damage in the body. It's best to take it with black pepper to increase absorption and get the full benefit.
BerriesBerries such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries are probably some of the most beautiful and tasty fruits around. You may love them for their taste alone, but there's more to them than that because they come with a long list of benefits.
Berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins E, C and K, prebiotics and fibre, to name but a few.
They should now be your go-to snack, especially if you have a sweet tooth and a big healthy addiction to your juices and smoothies.
Sea MossSea moss has gone viral and for good reason. It's now considered the new superfood because it can help with a wide range of health issues, including digestive problems, thyroid problems and low immunity. Some people who have tried sea moss have even reported that it has helped with weight management and irregular periods.
Although sea moss is new to the list, it is definitely promising. You can find it in the form of wild-crafted sea moss gel in plain flavours, or even versions combined with other superfoods such as blueberry and honey.
BeetrootBeetroot is a root vegetable known for its striking reddish-pink colour. You can easily find them sold as they are, or even in the form of juice to enjoy.
This root vegetable gives you a healthy boost of antioxidants, as well as other benefits for digestion and blood pressure management. They can also boost your energy levels and some athletes even include them in their diet for this purpose.