For millennia, yogis have said: “We become the food we eat.” Science today has finally caught up, and determined that the type of foods we consume, will ultimately determine our health and vitality.
We can, therefore, use different types of food to reach a specific outcome. Superfoods stand out above the rest as they have been found to contain higher concentrations of essential nutrients.
Below, find a list of foods and superfoods proven to be great for health and vitality.
12 Superfoods
Carrots & Carrot Juice
First grown in Asia, carrots are filled with antioxidants that may protect against cancer and vision loss.
They can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, and are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Mushrooms
Bioavailable iron is found in mushrooms, which is excellent for the formation of red blood cells.
They are further low in calories, have nutrients such as B-vitamins, vitamin D (if exposed to sunlight), selenium, potassium, and copper, and are a good source of fiber and protein.
Lentils
As superfoods, lentils are especially helpful for vegans and vegetarians worried about not ingesting enough nutrients and protein.
These small seed-like vegetables are part of the legume family and are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, folate, magnesium, and protein.
One cup of lentils contains 18-grams of protein, 40 gram carbs, 16-gram fiber, with only 230 calories.
Lemons
Vitamin C in lemons are so abundant; we need only one standard size lemon to fulfill our daily needs.
Vitamin C is essential to the functioning of our immune system, aids digestion, improves skin tone, and supports detoxification.
It also helps balance our PH levels and can even aid in keeping our weight in check by reducing the appetite.
Apples & Apple Juice
Studies found apples may be one of the healthiest foods. They are rich in flavonoids, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.
Researchers M. Martinoli and G. Bureau (University of Quebec a Trois-Rivieres) found that apples contain quercetin (an antioxidant) that reduces cellular death caused by the inflammation of neurons and oxidation.
Another study at Florida State University found women who ate apples every day had 23% less bad cholesterol (LDL), after just six months.
Blueberries
Antioxidant galore!
Blueberries are considered a superfood that helps protect our bodies from free radicals, which are unstable molecules known to disrupt or corrupt cellular structures contributing to aging.
Blueberries are also low in calories but high in nutrients such as Vitamin C, K, manganese, and fiber.
Cacao As Superfood
Raw cacao is packed with antioxidants that can fight illness and reduce cell damage. It is rich in plant-based iron, magnesium, potassium, copper and manganese.
It also has mood-boosting effects. Unfortunately, some of these powerful properties are damaged or destroyed in the process of making chocolate.
Acai Berries
Acai berries are considered superfoods as they have high levels of powerful antioxidants.
They also contain amino acids, which aid in endurance, strength and the production of energy.
Acai berries protect from free radical damage, have low levels of sugar and have the same levels of vitamin C as blueberries do.
Maca
A superfood that assists in enhancing energy and mental clarity, Maca is known as an “adaptogen. This is because it can help the body to cope with stress.
Maca is good for hormone balance, in both women and men. It is rich in phytonutrients, vitamins, amino acids, minerals and fatty acids.
Maca also has a higher level of calcium than the levels found in milk.
Coconut
Coconuts are considered superfoods as they have high levels of nutrient dense fats, lauric acid, antimicrobials and fatty acids.
Coconut is good for gut health, the digestive system, and a healthy immunity. It also keeps you full for longer periods of time as it is high in fiber.
Hemp Seeds As Superfood
Hemp seeds are one of the highest sources of plant protein, as 1 tablespoon contains around 10 grams of protein.
Along with the protein hemp also contains omega 6, fatty acids, vitamin E, amino acids, magnesium, sulfur, potassium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, zinc, and antioxidants.
All these factors are what make hemp seeds superfoods, and why it is considered the most nutritious seed.
Lucuma
Lucumas are superfoods from Peru, which have high antioxidant levels, vitamins C and B3, calcium, zinc, and iron.
The fruit has a low Glycemic Index and helps control blood sugar. It is also good for your immune system, bowel health and digestion.
Food has an impact on how we feel in general, and choosing the right foods can help you feel healthier, more relaxed, or happier. The list of foods and superfoods we investigated above is just the starting point. Continue researching and finding the best foods for your body, mind and soul.
Happy living!
References
- Unknown. “Top Superfoods For Everyday Health & Vitality”, Craft Breakfast, September 18, 2020.
