In general, superfoods are natural foods that not only provide essential nutrients but also offer specific health benefits. Essentially, superfoods can be considered therapeutic foods. The key characteristic of superfoods is that they are rich in one or more compounds known to support health. For instance, the dark color of elderberry indicates its high flavonoid content, while Alaska salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin, a natural antioxidant. Similarly, kale and other dark leafy greens are also classified as superfoods because of their high antioxidant content.
How do superfoods act?
Superfoods which include adaptogens, nootropics, and antioxidants, each offer unique health benefits. Antioxidants play a crucial role in overall health by protecting cells from free radical damage. Adaptogens assist the body in managing occasional stress more efficiently. Nootropics are associated with brain health. Additionally, omega fatty acids, particularly omega-3, support heart health.
How are superfoods consumed?
In some parts of the world, people incorporate superfoods into their daily diets. For example, individuals in the Mediterranean region including Greece, Spain, and Italy, consume a significant amount of olive oil, antioxidant-rich fruits, and vegetables. The Mediterranean dietary pattern is endorsed by the American Heart Association for its ability to lower risk factors for heart disease and stroke. The traditional Japanese diet also includes a variety of superfoods such as fish, green tea, mushrooms, and fermented foods like miso and natto. One way to intentionally incorporate superfoods into your daily diet is by using superfood drinks or supplements.
Plant-based food powders
Superfood powders are often made from plant-based and herbal ingredients that are mixed with liquids or fruits to create superfood shakes or smoothies. Today, these powders such as spirulina, are very popular for their health benefits.
Superfood tea or coffee
You can reap the benefits of superfoods by incorporating them into your daily routine through various teas, like Tulsi tea made from holy basil leaves. Furthermore, coffee and certain coffee alternatives may also contain superfood mushrooms, such as lion’s mane mushrooms, which are recognized for their positive impacts on brain health.
Superfood supplements
One simple way to enjoy the countless benefits of superfoods is by incorporating them into your diet through dietary supplements in pill or capsule form.
Some examples of superfoods include turmeric known for its curcumin bioactive substance; ashwagandha and holy basil for their adaptogenic properties, ginger for its antioxidant properties derived from active compounds like gingerol and shogaol; and reishi mushroom and lion’s mane mushrooms for their adaptogenic and nootropic properties.
For more information, please refer to the articles on Health Benefits of Astaxanthin, Health Benefits of Ashwagandha and Providing energy using natural supplements.
