Superfoods are some of the healthiest foods on the planet. They get their name from their high nutritional value and ability to produce beneficial effects in our bodies. Another word for superfoods is functional foods, and both terms are used interchangeably in literature.
They contain what are known as bioactive ingredients, which are responsible for the positive effects they have on our bodies. Many of these foods exist, but for this blog, we’ll discuss 4 of the top superfoods, including sprouts, microgreens, goji berries, and coconut oil. Let’s dive in!
Sprouts and Microgreens
To understand the benefits of sprouts and microgreens, we need to know what they are. Sprouts are germinated plant seeds like alfalfa, bean, and broccoli. Microgreens are small leafy greens that are about a centimeter in diameter. Both are edible seedlings of vegetables or herbs.
Broccoli sprouts and microgreens are highly nutritious, with beneficial effects on the body. They are anticarcinogenic, have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, and can help prevent and manage obesity and diabetes.
If you’re wondering how to add sprouts or microgreens to your diet, there are plenty of ways. They both work great on sandwiches, in salads and stir-fries, and as a garnish for many dishes. Always wash sprouts before use because they can harbor bacteria.
Goji Berries
Berries are a great source of nutrition, containing various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Among them, goji berries are considered one of the healthiest. These superfoods were first used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and while fresh goji berries can sometimes be found in North America, they are more commonly available dried.
Goji berries are a great source of vitamin C, prebiotics, fiber, lipids, proteins, and minerals. They also have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antidiabetic effects, similar to the benefits of sprouts and microgreens. In addition, goji berries are neuroprotective, which means they help protect our nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves that supply the rest of our body. This makes them a special food with unique benefits.
Goji berries have a sweet flavor and can be used in various dishes. They are great in oatmeal, energy bites, and trail mix. You can even use them in more savory dishes like curries as well.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has many health benefits. It’s a good source of medium chain triglycerides or “MCTs,” which are a special type of fat that is digested and absorbed differently from others. MCTs go straight to your liver to be used for energy, making them great for increasing energy, fighting chronic fatigue, and weight loss. Coconut oil is also high in saturated fat, which has a bad reputation for being linked to high cholesterol and cardiovascular diseases. However, research has shown that coconut oil does not significantly affect our cholesterol levels, unlike the saturated fat found in animal products.
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a powerful antimicrobial agent that can stop the growth or kill off microorganisms. It’s even used for moisturizing skin, lips, and hair. The best varieties of coconut oil are unrefined and virgin or extra virgin. You can easily incorporate it into your diet by using it in cooking. It has a mild flavor and is better than butter and margarine. Some people even use it in their coffee for a delicious creamy drink with an energy boost from the MCTs.
Wrapping It Up
As you can see, these foods have earned their name for a reason. While we only discussed four of the top superfoods, tons of others are available with unique health benefits. If you haven’t tried any of the superfoods listed in this blog before, or you don’t eat them very often, try adding them to your routine! You can use the examples provided in each section to easily incorporate them into your diet.
