There is no official categorical term for ‘superfoods’. Non-processed foods that are high in nutrition fall into the superfood category. Superfoods are well known for their health benefits beyond ‘common’ foods due to rich nutrition in phytochemicals and antioxidants. Antioxidants are known for their nutritional ability to defend your body against harmful effects of free radicals, which can damage your cells and DNA. This unique chemical is also famous for slowing down the ageing process and supports in maintaining a stronger immune system.
Let the things taste the way they are ~ Alice Waters
Ginger
Ginger has a long history of medicinal use that dates back thousands of years. It contains gingerol, which gives ginger its flavour. Gingerol helps to protect against cancer, particularly bowel cancer, as well as boosting immune function and helping to fight infection in our bodies.
Soy
Consuming 25g of soy protein each day helps to lower blood cholesterol levels. The antioxidant isoflavones found in soy protein help to counteract the buildup of cholesterol in blood vessels, reducing the risk of blood clots and heart attack.
Broccoli
Broccoli has a bounty of health-promoting properties, which are attributed in part to the plant compounds isothiocyanates. Studies have shown these compounds to be potent in the prevention of disease, and against bladder cancer, however, results are not definitive. This is because their effects can be reduced or even destroyed by cooking, so the disease-fighting activities only take place when broccoli is eaten raw.
Blueberries
Packed with polyphenolic compounds such as flavonoids and proanthocyanins, blueberries help protect memory and cognition. They may exert their beneficial effects by lowering oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing the risk of developing a neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a great source of calcium, protein, vitamin B12 and riboflavin, but it’s the probiotics found in some yogurts that make it particularly beneficial for your health. Probiotics are healthy bacteria with many benefits including promoting a healthy gut and protecting the immune system.
Emotional Benefits:
- Feeling energetic and lighter
- Helps to ease insomnia
- May prevent and cure anxiety and depression
- May increase memory and prevent dementia
- Boosts daily mood
Physical Benefits:
- Aids digestion
- Fights cancer
- Fights heart disease
- Protects organs from toxins
- Lowers cholesterol
- Regulates metabolism
- Reduces inflammation in the body
The key is to take any new change or habit, one step at a time. Start incorporating or adding to the superfoods you already have in your diet with new ones, that you love. Over time your tastebuds will change from craving “comfort foods” such as bread, biscuits and cake or sweet treats, with foods that radiate with vibrance and are good for your body.
