Superfoods – Worth the Hype?

Oyster

A little background: The term superfoods was originally used in a nutrition journal. Aaron Moss said, “Humans have many options when it comes to fueling their bodies, but the benefits of some options are so nutritious that they might be labeled as superfoods.” The key here is “might be labeled” as a superfood. Nutritionists and dietitians most likely won’t be using the term. But there is truth to the title. Foods that are labeled superfoods have certain nutritious benefits more than other foods. The key to healthy eating is to eat real, not packaged or processed, whole foods. If there is a commercial for it or it comes individually packaged chances are it contains some questionable ingredients.

With that said, there are foods that are better for you because they are high in vitamins. So overall, YES superfoods are worth the hype!

Some superfoods for you to incorporate into your diet today:

Prunes – Great for building bone density.
Walnuts – Improves memory and coordination.
Brussels sprouts – Pack the best cancer-fighting punch compared to all other vegetables!
Acai juice – (Pronounced “ah-sai-ee”) is High in antioxidants.
Bok choy – This can help ward off PMS since it is so high in calcium.
Salmon – Great for Omega-3s.
Spinach – So high in vitamin K that it helps build stronger bones and is great for blood clotting.
Cauliflower – Packed with cancer-fighting glucosinolates.
Collard greens – These greens are great for your eyes, they’re packed full of vitamin A and lutein.
Oysters – Great for keeping your immune system strong.

Vegetable

Strawberries – May halt the growth of cervical and colon cancers.
Lentils – A great source of meat-free protein. Also great for pregnant women since they have vitamins that protect babies in the uterus from neural tube defects.
Asparagus – Perfect for vitamin K and lessening bloating.
Broccoli sprouts – More cancer prevention!
Baked potatoes – Perfect for lowering blood pressure.
Sweet potatoes – Protect your vision and your immune system.
Tea – Prevents the hardening of arteries!
Blueberries – More antioxidants. They also improve memory!
Oranges – Vitamin C to keep you healthy!
Shiitake mushrooms – Has as much calcium as a glass of milk!
Dark Chocolate – The most fun Superfood – the darker the better, at least 60% – is full of antioxidants. Remember moderation is key with this one!

Start your day with a breakfast made of all superfoods!

Green smoothies are delicious, nutritious, and great for a quick breakfast on the go.

2-3 kale leaves
1/2 cup spinach
1/2 cup frozen blueberries
1 banana
1 tbsp Chia or flax seed to keep you full!
1 tsp of apple cider vinegar
1/4-1/2 cup juice of choice

Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour in a glass and enjoy!