The title of a superfood is not given so easily – superfoods are those foods that are rich in nutrients and filled with a ton of health benefits. They’re mostly plant-based, but some fish and dairy are considered super too. By adding these superfoods to your diet, you can maximise those health benefits.
Fermented ingredients
Fermentation is a natural process that involves breaking down sugars by bacteria and yeast. By eating fermented foods, the number of beneficial bacteria, or probiotics, can increase in your gut. These good bacteria help improve digestion, boost immunity and help us maintain a healthy weight. Examples of Fermented foods include Kimchi, a Korean dish of fermented vegetable. Or Kefir, a fermented milk drink which originated in Eastern Europe.
Pulses
The United Nations declared 2016 ‘the International Year of Pulses’ for a reason. Pulses are a plant-based superfood that is nutrient-dense, a great source for fibre, iron and potassium. This superfood is a good low-fat source of protein. In addition to these health benefits, pulses are good for the planet. They possess a low carbon footprint and use significantly less water than other foods.
Seeds
Due to seeds containing all the starting materials necessary to develop into complex plants, they are extremely nutritious. Seeds are a great source of fibre and, with a healthy diet, can help reduce blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure. Try adding Flaxseeds, Chia Seeds and Hemp Seeds to your everyday diet.
Beetroot
Finally, this superfood contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre. As well as this, Beetroots are rich in nitrates, which help muscles use oxygen more efficiently. In addition, this food can be one of your five-a-day. Why not try putting Beetroot into a salad or even your juice?
