For many people, the term “superfoods” sounds like just another marketing gimmick to make you believe in an easy solution to a certain problem.
In reality however, superfoods are products that are proven to have a certain net benefit for human health, meaning they are actually functional and beneficial.
With this article, we’ll provide you with the basic information you need to know about superfoods, as well as a list of our favorites!
What Is Health, Even?
It is likely that traditional medicine has made some of us believe that health is dependent on one thing.
However, you have to realize that the body is a complex machine and so is its health.
By definition, health can be defined as the proper, balanced functioning of all bodily systems, active tissues and processes.
The thing here is that health is AUTOMATIC … Your body takes care of it all!
You don’t have to think about digesting and absorbing essential nutrients.
You don’t have to think about feeling sleepy, hungry or thirsty.
You don’t have to think about waking up in the morning.
All of this is automatic and ALL you have to do is feed the body the right nutrients for it to be able to sustain the healthy functioning of all those systems and tissues.
Macro VS Micro Nutrients
Now, if you know a thing or two about healthy nutrition, you probably know the terms “macronutrients & micronutrients”.
If not, here’s the short story - Macronutrients are protein, fats & carbohydrates and they provide the majority of the energy our bodies need, along with essential nutrients.
Think of the term “essential nutrient” as something that the body needs but can’t produce on its own.
Contrary to macronutrients, we have micronutrients, which include vitamins, minerals and electrolytes.
These nutrients don’t really have a caloric value, but are intricately involved in a variety of processes, meaning that most of them too, are essential.
THIS is where superfoods shine!
The 5 Best Superfoods
Granted, health isn’t dependent on consuming just one “superfood”, but these are the exact foods that can help reinforce your body’s overall health.
So let’s have a look at the top-rated superfoods & drinks!
1. Green tea
Herbs and teas are known to have a variety of active ingredients that have different effects on the body and its processes.
The right combination of herbs can treat a variety of issues, which is why herbs are a big part of traditional medicine in many countries.
More specifically, green tea is a Chinese herb, rich in antioxidants, polyphenols and some caffeine!
Looking to fight inflammation and maximize your mental focus and energy levels? Get yourself some green tea.
2. Ginger
Some of the most potent ingredients have the strongest smell and taste and granted, ginger is one of them!
Ginger is a root, used in Chinese traditional medicine to create a variety of different home remedies, teas and even some food products!
This root has a variety of antioxidants that too have the anti-inflammatory & antioxidative effect on the body.
Ginger shines when it is time to treat acute and chronic inflammations and can also be consumed regularly as means of prevention for cardiovascular diseases.
3. Forest Fruits
If there’s one food group that we could call “stacked with goods”, well that would definitely be forest fruits!
These sweet fruits have a load of antioxidants which are proven to reinforce immunity and improve overall health.
Blueberries, raspberries, goji berries and strawberries are amongst the best-tasting, most nourishing superfoods one can add to their nutrition plan!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve covered your main nutrient requirements coming from protein, fats and carbs, it is time to add some sides to your meals!
Or better yet, have a nice afternoon cup of green tea with ginger in the shade…
If you liked this article, stay tuned on our blog as we are releasing content like this on the regular basis!
See you soon!