Superfoods and the Power of Antioxidants
Yes, superfoods exist, and they are where you least expect them. Some of the most powerful superfoods may even already be in your kitchen, waiting for you. But let's get to the truth: what is so special about them that they fall into the superhero category? So much pressure... easy. We explain it all.
Super…what? The introduction you need to superfoods
High in phytonutrients, superfoods concentrate many nutrients in small amounts. They are good for our health and have benefits beyond nutritional ones.
In addition, they may be high in fiber and improve intestinal transit or contain many omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, which are good for the cardiovascular system. They are also high in antioxidant vitamins and minerals that help prevent aging and degenerative diseases. But how do antioxidants work in our bodies?
It's time to call antioxidants to the stage.
Antioxidants are chemical substances that help stop the damage caused by free radicals. These are molecules that damage cells, accelerate aging and cause various diseases.
Free radicals are also created by the body naturally, due to cell metabolism. However, production can increase in response to factors such as pollution or a diet high in fried foods.
But did you know that we naturally produce antioxidants? It's true. But it is not always enough. And in those cases, we need to get extra help from the antioxidants we find in food.
But what are antioxidants and where are they?
Generally, they are easy to find in fruits, vegetables, and, for example, whole grains. But to get to know them better, we might as well move on to introductions:
- Vitamin E. This vitamin with antioxidant power is found in vegetable oils, wheat germ, whole grains, seeds, and nuts.
- Vitamin C. This vitamin is famous, isn't it? And as you already know it is found in citrus fruits. But not only in that: it's also found in strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, and potatoes.
- Vitamin A. For example, you can find this vitamin in sweet potatoes, carrots, milk, or egg yolk.
- Carotenoids. Carotenoids are great allies in the diet, and they can be found in sweet potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, Brussels sprouts, pumpkin, and broccoli.
- Zinc. An important mineral that you can find in seafood, lean meats, milk, and nuts.
- Selenium. Here's another mineral to include in your cooks that you can find in seafood, lean meats, and whole grains.
- Looking to include more of this mineral in your meals? Look for it in seafood, lean meats, milk, and nuts.
- Flavonoids. These are powerful substances that you can find in teas, citrus fruits, red wine, onions, and apples.
Now that you are already a superfood guru, are you feeling the pressure to improve your diet? We hope so. To give you some extra help, we present you 3 of the most powerful superfoods.
Get to know 3 of the most powerful superfoods
1| Ginger and Turmeric
They are both roots and can be used in many ways, such as in teas or for seasoning. Ginger comes from China, while turmeric originates from India and Indonesia. With many health benefits, these two are a great option when used as a shot, for a nutritious start of the day.
2 | Red Fruits
A group that includes fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. They are perfect alone as a fruit but can also be added to yogurt, salads, or in different preparations. And yes, we also mean freshly squeezed juices like our Berries juice.
3 | Avocado
The trendy superfood. Versatile, it can be eaten plain (au natural) or used in preparations, such as the famous guacamole. You can add it to salads, use it as a spread on toast, or drink it. What do you think of an avocado juice?
You need to know that superfoods can be great allies, but they are not miraculous. And, of course, they are no substitute for consistent healthy habits. Still, it's nice to be able to count on them whenever you need an extra boost.
