Superfoods are known as nutrient powerhouses as they contain high amounts of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and phytochemicals. Most of the superfoods are plant-based; another consists of dairy and fish.
Some of the most popular superfoods include almonds, salmon, acai berries, and kale. Since a proper definition of superfoods cannot be found, any high-nutrient food can be put into this category.
Benefits of superfoods
As superfoods contain high levels of minerals and vitamins, which can increase the body’s ability to fight off diseases.
Superfoods accompanied by a balanced diet can perform healthy functions such as improve energy levels, promotes weight loss, reduce the aging process, and promote heart health.
Antioxidants found in superfoods are helpful in preventing cancer and in reducing the risk of heart diseases.
The fiber in superfoods helps in preventing diabetes and digestive issues. Phytochemicals aid in decreasing the risk of many cardiovascular diseases.
Superfoods perform some other functions as well, such as regulating metabolism, lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and protect organs against toxicity.
Eating a well-balanced diet
It is worth mentioning that superfoods are quite good for your health as they provide necessary nutrients but relying alone on superfoods is not a great idea.
Eating only one type of food for such a long time on a daily basis can cause some detrimental effects on your body as well.
It is suggested to add superfoods into your balanced diet and get the benefits combined.
Popular High Antioxidant superfoods and their benefits
1. Kefir
Most people do not even know about this food. Kefir is one of the high-probiotic foods. It is basically a fermented beverage, comes from raw milk and kefir grains.
It appears in a yogurt-like texture with high amounts of potassium, calcium, proteins, and B vitamins. It is rich in pre-biotic properties.
Probiotics found in prebiotics enable the growth of good bacteria in the gut, which can be helpful in treating various diseases such as diarrhea, gastrointestinal infections, and irritable bowel syndrome.
2. Avocado
Avocados contain monounsaturated fats and vitamins E and B6. Avocados give many health benefits including, reducing arthritis, decreasing the side effects of chemotherapy, and reducing cholesterol levels.
Vitamins found in avocado are helpful in red blood cell formation, producing glycogen, promoting skin health, and protecting cells from free radicals.
3. Kale
Kale is a green leafy vegetable that contains high amounts of vitamins A, C, and K, and also antioxidants, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Kale provides low calories and high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.
They help in treating many inflammatory conditions like asthma, autoimmune disorder, and arthritis.
4. Salmon
Salmon contains rich amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which are helpful in lowering the risk of stroke and heart diseases.
Salmon also contains selenium and vitamin D. Salmon provides a variety of benefits such as reduces inflammation, lower blood pressure, prevents cell damage, improves skin, nails, hair, and bone health, and also improves mood.
5. Quinoa
Quinoa is a super grain that is rich in proteins, fiber, potassium, and iron. It contains the highest amounts of proteins.
Quinoa is not a grain, but it is a seed. It is also a rich source of many antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Quinoa is naturally free from gluten and is mostly used as a substitute for rice.
