WHAT SUPERFOODS SHOULD I BE EATING?

What is a Superfood?

While there is no official scientific definition, a Superfood is something that contains high levels of nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and fiber. It is thought that by including Superfoods into your diet, you could be reducing the risk of various chronic diseases while remaining (on average) fitter and healthier than those who don't include Superfoods in their diet.

However, with the exception of Blueberries and Salmon, do you know what foods are classified as 'Superfoods' and, most importantly, are you incorporating them into your diet? Below are some of the best Superfoods around that can be easily sourced in local supermarkets and can be used every day.

1. Cocoa Powder/ Raw Cocoa

As well as it’s chocolatey taste and low calorie count, Cocoa contains flavonoids, which work to improve blood flow to the brain and heart as well as lower blood pressure.

2. Chai Seeds

Chai seeds are packed with nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and fiber. These native Mexican seeds are well worth having in your cupboard – they can be added to your morning cereal/ omelettes or to put in cooking to add a crunchy texture.

3. Avacado

Packed with nutrients such as vitamin E, monosaturate fats, vitamin B12, lutein and gluthathione, the avacado is a huge health booster and helps protect your body from heart disease, cancer and brain disease. This is a Superfood that can be easily mixed into any meal, including smoothies, salads or even as a side to go with your morning scrambled eggs.

4. Kale

Kale is low in both saturated fat and cholesterol, and is a great source of fiber, protein, iron and magnesium, while also being packed with vitamins. This is one Superfood that everyone should have in their kitchen. Cook it as you would cabbage or spinach, or you can do what I do and add it to your daily juices and smoothies.

5. Black Beans

Full of fiber, antioxidants and iron, a tin of black beans contains 15grams of protein. Add to your pastas, curry’s and even salads - with none of the saturated fat found in meat, this is also a great meat alternative.

6. Broccoli

Packed full with vitamin C, this is a great immunity booster. It is one to indulge in on those colder months when the flu starts to be passed around.

7. Kiwi

Kiwi offers a huge array of nutrients and minerals such as fiber, potassium, folate and vitamin E as well vitamin C and antioxidants; it keeps the immune system strong and helps fight disease. A must have in that fruit bowl.

So there you have it! A few of my favourite Superfoods that can be picked up from the local supermarket and are easy to include into your daily/weekly cooking. By introducing Superfoods into your diet, you will be giving your body a nutritional boost that will benefit you in so many ways. 

Happy Eating!

ps. for more food tips, fitness plans and workout ideas, follow me on Twitter @georgiedonk and Instagram @georgie_donk