What are superfoods and why have they become fashionable?

What are superfoods and why have they become fashionable?

In recent years, a series of foods have come to the fore under the label "superfood" or superfoods . What is special about them? A nutritional potential, a high concentration of antioxidants, healthy fats or vitamins . But the thing to keep in mind is that no food is "miraculous." The key is to eat a balanced diet and exercise .

What exactly are superfoods?

The Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition (SEEN) explains that from a scientific point of view, there is no official definition of superfood. Although superfoods are called those that contain a high degree of nutrients, vitamins and minerals, with great antioxidant power and healthy fats that take care of our health and provide us with extra energy.

What are superfoods ?

Its consumption will strengthen our body and help us feel better. These are some of the best known:

Olive oil: helps us reduce bad cholesterol and, consequently, the probability of suffering from cardiovascular diseases.

Chia : has its origin in Latin America and is the perfect combination to enrich our desserts, yogurts, salads. It is a source of fiber, calcium and omega 3.

Quinoa : does not contain gluten, therefore it is suitable for coeliacs . It has more fiber and protein than legumes . It favors digestion and improves our intestinal transit, preventing us from diseases.

Legumes: their low percentage of fat and fiber content make them a suitable option for weight loss diets .

Broccoli: it is an alkaline food that provides us with vitamin C and fiber. In addition, thanks to its water content it gives us a feeling of satiety.

Garlic: strengthens our immune system , protecting us against the flu and colds. It also helps us reduce cholesterol, which is why it is considered a heart-healthy food .

Spirulina: it is a type of green-blue algae that grows in warm waters. It has a high concentration of protein, minerals (calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, Omega-3) and is a vegetable source of vitamin B12 . It was declared by the 1974 United Nations World Food Conference as the best food for the future.

Acai berry: it is purple in color from Brazil. It is considered a rejuvenating food , natural detoxifier , promotes digestion and cleanses the colon.

Bulgur: widely used in the cuisine of the Middle East and North Africa, it is a food that is made from wheat . It is a source of carbohydrates that give the same energy as pasta, rice or cereals.

Kale: this kale has anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular properties and has a high antioxidant power.

Other foods such as blueberries, pomegranate, turmeric , ginger , tea , nuts or oily fish, could fall within the coveted list of superfoods.

What do superfoods contribute to our health?

As we have mentioned before, "superfoods" have antioxidant properties , vitamins, minerals and provide fiber and natural fats that are very necessary to take care of the health of our body. In addition, they constitute a natural probiotic that favors or strengthens our gastrointestinal and digestive health.

In turn, they prevent and protect us from diseases, strengthening the immune system, and its therapeutic power is also reflected in its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities .

Without a doubt, all these advantages are very remarkable, but eating a healthy and balanced diet is the first step towards physical and mental well-being. Therefore, experts recommend the Mediterranean diet , rich in nutrients and made up of these "superfoods". (superfood company)