Superfoods are foods that pack so much nutrients compared to other types of food at the same amount and same caloric value. They also are loaded with compounds beneficial to health. What are these foods anyway, and what makes them so special?
The egg is one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. One large egg has 6 grams of protein, complete with all essential amino acids. It has antioxidants. One antioxidant found in egg is lutein. Lutein keeps your eyes healthy and prevents macular degeneration. Eggs are also rich in Vitamin B-complex and iron and other minerals. They are also a good source of choline, which your brain needs to make neurotransmitters and is thus essential for brain health.
Did you know that the most popular spice is also rich in bioactive compounds? While you may skip on garlic because it makes your breath funny, it’s actually great for your heart. It lowers cholesterol and triglycerides. It also lowers risk of stroke by reducing chances of platelet coagulation. Studies that show the cardiovascular health benefits of garlic are extensive. Research has shown it can lower blood pressure. It also has antimicrobial properties and is known to kill certain types of bacteria and fungi. The best thing about garlic is you don’t have to eat it alone. It’s best added to main courses and side dishes as a spice.
There are a lot of nutritious vegetables in the market, and one of the most nutritious is kale. One hundred grams of kale has only 50 calories. That amount of kale roughly has 2 grams of fiber. It’s very rich in Vitamin A, C, and K. It’s also a good source of calcium and potassium. On top of that, it has sulforophane and indole-3-carbinol, substances that research on animals have shown to fight cancer.
4. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is rich in MCTs or medium chain triglycerides, which help lower blood cholesterol and reduce levels of bad fat (LDL). MCTs also increase your metabolism, thus helping you control your weight. It is actually full of surprising health benefits.
Blueberries are one of those types of foods that have high nutrient-calorie ratio. However, what makes them a superfood is their antioxidant content. When ranked with other foods rich in antioxidants, blueberries are one of the few on top. These antioxidants help control blood pressure, low density fat, and cholesterol. Antioxidants also prevent cancer by getting the body rid of unwanted junk that cause cellular mutation.
Salmon has a lot of fat, good fat! That’s why it’s called a fatty fish. The fat in salmon is mainly omega-3. People who don’t eat cold-water fish, like salmon, never get enough omega-3 fatty acids. Two servings of salmon per week are enough for your weekly omega-3 needs. You know what omega-3 does. It fights bad cholesterol and prevents heart disease.
Salmon is also rich in Vitamin B-complex, potassium, and selenium. Thus, it doesn’t only prevent cardiovascular disease. It also prevents dementia.