Today I want to talk about a topic that is very trendy in the nutrition field, and that is also great to improve your health: SUPERFOODS.
Superfoods are foods that are considered nutritionally dense. This means that they contain a large number of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and antioxidants that the body needs to function properly. Many of these reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, improve brain function, aid weight loss and they also provide thousands of other health benefits.
According to the Mayo Clinic, superfoods must have three of these four components:
1) Excellent source of fiber, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.
2) High content of phytonutrients and antioxidant compounds, such as vitamins A and E and beta-carotene.
3) Help reduce the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
4) Easily accesible.
Now that you understand what superfoods are and their health benefits, I'm going to share with you my top favorites:
a) TURMERIC: Turmeric is a superfood because it has a compound called curcumin, which has many health benefits. Turmeric has been scientifically proven to help us prevent heart disease, Alzheimer's and cancer. It is also a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant and can help us improve symptoms of depression and arthritis.
b) COCOA: Cocoa is an excellent source of saturated, monounsaturated fats, vitamins, minerals, fiber, natural carbohydrates and proteins. It is one of the highest sources of antioxidants, which help us maintain a youthful skin. It is one of the highest foods in magnesium, which is key to the body's muscle and nerve functions. Cocoa also stimulates the brain to release neurotransmitters that trigger emotions of well-being, concentration, and alertness.
c) MACA: Maca is known for its adaptogenic properties and its ability to help the body cope with stress. Among its benefits we can find hormonal regulation, increased libido and improved fertility.
d) MATCHA: Matcha is powdered green tea, which has many health benefits. In recent years, it has been proven to strengthen the immune system and help reduce stress, stimulate the mind, relax the body, help keep arteries healthy, control hypertension, lower blood sugar levels, provide sustained energy levels and it also helps improve the appearance of skin and nails. It contains a large number of antioxidants that help eliminate free radicals that promote cellular aging.
e) HONEY: It is considered a superfood for its nutritional and healing properties. It is a natural sweetener with antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains enzymes and amino acids, which have a fundamental role in the growth and synthesis of different tissues of our body. On top of that, honey helps us metabolize our food, prevent and relieving stomach indigestion.
The good news is that incorporating superfoods into your daily diet is not complicated, since only small doses are needed to obtain their benefits. As a matter of fact, Sarai's spreads contain superfoods that provide us with the necessary amounts for the body´s health and well-being.
Remember that beyond eating "perfect", what most helps your body to stay in balance is eating with love, freedom, joy and healthfully.
See you soon,
Monica Hefferan
Monica is a nutritionist, author, and founder of Nutrición Energética. She participates as a nutrition expert on TV and radio and her professional studies include a BS in Nutrition, and a Ms in Nutrition from Columbia University in New York.
You can contact her at IG and FB: @monica.hefferan and on her website: www.monicahefferan.com
