The Importance of Super Food: What Makes These Foods So Special?
If you’ve been told about the importance of having a super food in your diet, you would probably think them to be the end of all your nutrient worries.
Unfortunately, a superfood will not solve all food-related problems of your diet or the world but its advantages are far too many to ignore.
What is a superfood?
The term, ‘superfood’ constitutes foods which are rich in certain nutrients and antioxidants that are essential for our physical and mental well-being elements that may be lacking in our daily food supply.
Organic superfoods are a better choice than inorganic ones. This is because fruits and vegetables, if not grown organically, can lose their nutritional value or worse can be poisoned and degraded due to the application of harmful pesticides.
What can be called ‘superfoods?’
According to the American Heart Association, there is no specific guideline for food to be labeled, ‘superfood.’
Superfoods include:
- Berries like cranberries, and Goji berries
- Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, kale and Maca
- Nuts and Seeds like walnuts, almonds, Chia Seeds and pistachios
- Fatty fish such as salmon and tuna
Eating Habits That Will Help You
The quality of food around the world differs immensely from country to country. Quite a lot of food in the USA is non-organic, and the nutritional value of these foods is not very high.
Market research shows that while organic food has created a large market for itself in Europe and Asia, it is not the case in America. More organic food is now readily available in the US market, but it is still not as prevalent as it should be.
The situation can lead to a deficiency of nutrients in foods and lead to life-threatening diseases. To prevent this, you would need to take supplements; however, since they are synthetic, they cannot be consumed at a stretch for an extended period of time.
Why do we need superfoods?
Falling back on fast food and canned products is often the easy way out of a busy schedule.
Unfortunately, it isn’t always the right choice.
Obesity is a very real problem in the United States of America. According to studies, US per capita calorie intake has increased by more than 300 kilocalories (kcal) within a period of 7 years- from 1985 through 2002. Fast food is a health risk as it can lead to heart problems and high cholesterol.
This is why we need the super foods. They are nutritious, time-saving and easy to consume. They satisfy the requirements of our body without much trouble. Super foods give one a healthy lifestyle which is much needed in today’s world.
Are superfoods enough?
Superfoods are not your definite substitute for a well-balanced meal. Research has shown that a proper diet consists of an equal distribution of super foods, leafy greens, and animal protein.
It’s time you become more cautious about the food you eat – it’s not just about eating more but it’s about eating right.