Super foods are special foods that have great nutrient value.They are low in calories, but are great energy boosters. They help a lot in weight loss, and regular consumption of these foods makes the body healthier and stronger. In the recent times, people have started to become more health conscious, owing to studies and news reports of poor eating habits causing a lot of harm to people. It’s time that you wake up to some lesser-known super-foods and include them in your diet.
Goji Berries
1. Goji Berries
A very rich source of antioxidants, these berries are mostly grown in Asia and America. Deep red in color, they are mostly dried for consumption like raisins. Chinese people believe these berries are capable of improving the libido of a person. Other benefits of these berries include an improved immunity, better quality of blood, improvement in eyesight, and protection of the liver.
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Coconut
2. Coconut
Coconut water is a wholesome food. It is nutritious and delicious at the same time. Drinking coconut water regularly keeps many stomach ailments away and leaves the skin glowing. Since coconuts are rich in sodium and albumin content, those suffering from cholera can get great relief by drinking coconut water. It also contains great amount of antioxidants.
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Acai Berries
3. Acai Berries
A famous South American fruit, Acai Berries improve vision and the functioning of the heart. They are also great for detoxifying the whole body and make the immune system stronger. These berries contain plant sterols that help in reducing the cholesterol level of the body. They help in digestion, and help you lose weight as well.
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Blueberries
4. Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in water and leave the body hydrated. They further contain flavonoids, which protect the memory cells of the brain. Their dark color is the secret for an obesity-free long life.
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Broccoli
5. Broccoli
Broccoli delays aging and keeps cancer at bay. It can be eaten raw or can be cooked with other vegetables. It is a rich source of iron and calcium, and is recommended to all those who exercise regularly.
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Pumpkin
6. Pumpkin
Pumpkins are a rich source of Vitamin A, which helps to improve vision. They are also rich in phytosterols that help to keep cholesterol levels in check. The carotenoids in pumpkins help to get a wrinkle-free skin. Some of its properties also help to prevent cancer.
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Maca Powder
7. Maca Powder
Maca is a vegetable of Peru. It is in radish like form, but is made into powder for consumption. It should be consumed in very small quantity, about one teaspoon a day, as too much in not recommended for good health. It can also be applied on the skin to help prevent acne. It increases libido and controls mood swings. It is rich in Vitamin B, C and E; however,it’s not recommended for pregnant women. Maca powder is sprinkled over salads and juices.
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Cupuacu
8. Cupuacu
It is a highly fragrant fruit, often compared with berries. It however, contains more nutrients. The best benefit of Cupuacu is that it strengthens the immune system a lot. Moreover, it provides energy to the body, and also helps to reduce cholesterol levels. You may also experience better-looking skin and hair with its regular consumption.
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Yogurt
9. Yogurt
Yogurt is another super food rich in calcium. Its healthy bacteria prevents diarrhea, and aids in digestion. It is also good for keeping the body cool, and helps in getting better looking skin. An even better variant to this is Organic Kefir, which is actually capable of colonizing the intestinal tract, and giving better energy levels to the body. But since Kefir may not be available easily in all parts of the world, most people include yogurt in their diet on a regular basis.
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Swiss Chard
10. Swiss Chard
This green leafy delight is rich in potassium and helps to prevent muscle cramps. It also balances the electrolytes in the body, and is particularly good for gymnasts and sports persons or those indulging in high amounts of physical activity.
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CamuCamu
11. CamuCamu
Yet another South American super food, CamuCamu has great anti-viral properties that help to fight against sore throats and infections, along with Herpes and Shingles. It is also a rich source of many vitamins and essential amino acids.
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Spinach
12. Spinach
Spinach is a great source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K. This green leafy vegetable is rich in iron, and therefore helps in getting healthy eyes and hair.
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Bamboo shoots
13. Bamboo shoots
They are low in calories, and help you to stay full for longer. They also are high in fiber and help fight against cancer.
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Apricot seeds
14. Apricot seeds
Apricot seeds contain B17. They are known to prevent cancer, and can be consumed in various dishes and smoothies. Some dried forms can be consumed in a savory mix as well as a snack in between meals.
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Pu-erh tea
15. Pu-erh tea
This is perhaps the most expensive tea that fights depression and aids in weight loss. It is completely harmless and can be consumed at any time of the day except before going to bed. It is something that most actors and models swear by.
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Green coffee beans
16. Green coffee beans
Although these beans are ground in the same way as normal coffee beans, they don’t taste like coffee at all. They are bitter in taste, so a sweetener has to be added to the coffee. They have anti-inflammatory properties and are excellent for the body.
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Flax seeds
17. Flax seeds
Flax seeds are a great combination of fiber and protein. Hypertension and depression are automatically taken care of for those who consume flax seed oil or consume tablets containing this oil. They reduce cholesterol and reduce the risk of liver diseases that result from drinking. They further arrest the cells that cause prostate cancer.
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Noni
18. Noni
Noni juice is extracted from the ripe fruit of the Morinda Citrifolia tree found in Australasia and its surrounding areas. It is said to treat cancer, aid in weight loss and boost energy. The intake should be gradually reduced as you start noticing results.
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Tempeh
20. Tempeh
Tempeh is a food rich in calcium, protein and fiber. It is prepared from soybeans, which are cooked and fermented and formed into a cake-like substance. It can be baked or grilled or even added to other foods. It is found mostly in Indonesia, but its refrigerated varieties are available in most places round the world.
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Aloe
21. Aloe
Aloe, also called ‘aloe vera’, contains gel and latex. The gel is used for skin treatments like sunburns, frostbites and bedsores. It is also used in some beauty products. Aloe medicines are taken for diabetes and ulcers. Latex is used to treat constipation, asthma, depression and some vision problems.
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Chia seeds
22. Chia seeds
Chia, meaning ‘strength’, is grown in Mexico. True to their name, Chia seeds contain proteins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, fiber and antioxidants. Chia seeds can be added to soups, salads, yogurts and many other foods. Consumption of these seeds leaves you feeling full, thus combating hunger and helping in weight loss while giving energy at the same time.
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Amaranth
23. Amaranth
Amaranth is a grain like rice and contains all vital vitamins like A,C,E,K.B5 and B6. It is rich in protein and fiber. It further contains the amino acid lysine, which assists the body to absorb calcium and produce energy. Lowering cholesterol, reducing blood pressure and inflammation, and protecting against cancer are some more benefits of Amaranth.
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Seaweed
24. Seaweed
It is a type of algae found around the coasts of East Asia, South Africa, South West England and Scotland. It looks like spinach and is highly nutritious. It contains Vitamin B-12, Vitamin A and iodine. The different varieties of seaweeds are nori, kelp and kombu. Seaweeds cure cold, arthritis and tuberculosis. They also help lower cholesterol and control weight.
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Propolis
25. Propolis
Propolis is the gum or glue extracted by bees from flowers and plants to seal their houses and protect them from the outside temperature and intruders. Egyptians have been known to use if for mummification. This sticky super food contains Vitamin A, B Complex and Vitamin E, various minerals, ethanol and amino acids. It is used in medicines for treating oral ulcers, tooth decays and boosting immunity.
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Most of these foods may seem uncommon and rare to people, because you do not tend to use them much or hear of them in your daily life. However, if you consciously add some of these super foods to your diet, you will experience a much better state of health.
