Superfoods are so-called due to their nutrient density, considered to be especially beneficial for our health and wellbeing. Some of the most popular superfoods are kale, blueberries, salmon, avocado and chia—all coveted due to the various positive impacts on our health.
Borne out of the superfood trend, there are now a number of superfood supplements available. These come in various forms (mostly powders or tablets) and can be added to smoothies, meals or taken orally. Including superfood supplements in our diets can help those who are short on time but wish to maintain a healthy diet, and are an excellent way to sneak more healthy vitamins and nutrients into your children’s meals.
It’s common knowledge that a diet rich in fruit and vegetables is vital for good health, but this is now especially important—according to recent research by the University College London, we should be eating 10 portions of vegetables and fruit every day, not five as the NHS recommends. The study revealed that people who consumed at least seven portions of fruit and vegetables per day were 42 percent less likely to suffer premature death than those who ate only one portion.
Vegetables were found to be more beneficial than fruit, reducing the risk of death by 16 percent, whereas fruit reduced it by only four percent. The study’s author, Dr Oyinlola Oyebode, said: ‘The clear message here is that the more fruit and vegetables you eat, the less likely you are to die at any age. My advice would be however much you are eating now, eat more.’
See also: Celebrity Superfood Fans
Realistically, many of us would struggle to eat 10 portions of vegetables a day, especially if you have a hectic schedule. Supplements can provide a convenient way of increasing your vegetable intake.
If you’re curious about adding superfood supplements to your diet, there are a variety of options on the market. According to Amazon, the best sellers for superfood supplements are plant-based protein powders but there are plenty of other choices, from spirulina (an ancient blue-green algae) to wheatgrass (full of chlorophyll and vitamins)—all high in antioxidants and a good source of protein.
However—as with all supplements—superfood supplements should be used as an addition to a healthy and varied diet, and not used as a substitute.
What Makes Them Super?
Although the term ‘superfoods’ doesn’t have a medical or legal definition, they are considered to be nutrient powerhouses that contain large quantities of antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. Including superfoods in your diet can improve your overall health and wellness, reduce the risk of chronic disease, and prolong life. Plus, people who eat more of them are generally healthier and slimmer than those who don’t.
The Super Six
Kale
Contains vitamin A, vitamin C, lutein, phytonutrients.
Good for skin, eyes, neutralising cancer-causing substances.
Blueberries
Contain phytonutrients, antioxidants.
Good for protecting against cancer, reduce effects of age-related conditions.
Salmon
Contains omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, several B-vitamins.
Good for reducing inflammation, improving circulation, increasing good cholesterol, preventing cell damage.
Garlic
Contains vitamin C, B6, manganese, selenium, antioxidants.
Good for lowering high blood pressure and cholesterol, promoting growth of white cells, boosting immunity, slowing growth of harmful bacteria, yeasts and fungi.
Avocado
Contains vitamin E, B-vitamins, potassium, folic acid, fibre.
Good for skin, cardiovascular health, constipation, weight management.
Broccoli
Contains folic acid, vitamin C, phytonutrients, magnesium.
Good for suppressing growth of tumours, boosting immunity.
See also: Vitamin Supplements
What to Look Out For
The majority of superfood supplements come in powder form (like the below), so are easy to add into a smoothie or sprinkle over a salad.
Spirulina: A natural green algae that is incredibly high in protein, plus a good source of antioxidants and B-vitamins.
Wheatgrass: Also rich in protein, and contains a high amount of amino acids and chlorophyll.
Matcha: A powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals.
Turmeric: A member of the ginger family, this spice is anti-inflammatory and an anti-depressant.
Cacao: A good source of magnesium, which many of us are deficient in.
Maca: Helps to balance hormones, especially in menopausal women.
Read more on Celebrity Angels on the benefits of adding fruit and veg in your diet and more nutritious superfoods to munch on.
