5 Superfoods with the Results to Back it Up

Superfoods have high nutritional and biological value because of the extraordinary concentrations of nutrients and bioactive ingredients that are packed into them. Superfoods play an important role in diets and contribute to the proper operation of the body.

baobab

Most complete super fruit. Has high levels of K, Ca, Mg, Fe, and Zinc. You may not recognize this one because it originates in Africa and Australia. You’re more likely to find it in powder form in your health food store or online.

Add baobab to smoothies or bread recipes for a boost of antioxidants (carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds), fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Baobab has twice the fiber content of a pear or banana.

quinoa

A gluten free grain high in protein and fiber. Quinoa contains the nine essential amino acids making it is a critical source of nutrition for development and growth. The properties in Quinoa have anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and antioxidative effects.

The phytosterols in quinoa effectively lower cholesterol levels. The phytosterols resemble cholesterol in the small intestine. The body will choose to absorb the phytosterols instead of the cholesterol which reduces serum cholesterol levels.

Other grains that have super properties are oat, amaranth, and buckwheat also high in K, P, Ca, Fe and B vitamins.

chia seeds

These seeds are small powerhouses when it comes to nutritional density. Omega-3 fatty acids and phenolic compounds are responsible for their anti-oxidant effects. If oxidative damage inside the body gets out of control you can start to see chronic issues like cardiovascular disease.

Adding chia seeds to your diet can help prevent high cholesterol, high blood pressure, inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. There’s been some positive results about how chia seeds contribute to the development of a fetus if mom consumed them regularly.

A recent mice study showed that consistent intake of chia seeds was effective against obesity and the inflammation that comes with it.

They’re incredibly easy to sneak into any recipe. Pack them into no-bake oat balls, desserts, salads, yogurt…etc. You may even be able to find chia flour pasta which has higher nutritional value than regular pasta.

fungi

Mushrooms are a truly powerful superfood. The Reishi mushroom is known as the mushroom of immortality. This is due to their very high protein levels (19.5g), fiber, kipids, phenolic compounds, zinc, Fe, and P.

A randomized controlled trial was performed with adults that ate mushrooms everyday for 4 weeks. Blood and saliva samples showed improved immunity and decreased inflammation.

spirulina

algae product claimed as the most nutritious, concentrated whole food source found in nature. Spirulina has high levels of protein, potassium, carotenoids. You can find this in powder form that is easily added to smoothies, yogurt bowls, pancakes or desserts. It is the most beautiful blue that adds an amazing pop of color to any dish.

check out these recipes that use spirulina