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 T witter @georgiedonk and Instagram @georgie_donk