Superfoods - Nutritional Powerhouses

Superfoods are nutrient-rich foods that are considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being. They are typically high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Category
Food
Where to get
Available in health food stores, grocery stores, and online.
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

superfoods FAQ


Image credit: rd.com

Is there such a thing as a superfood?

Nutritionally speaking, there is no such thing as a superfood. The term was coined for marketing purposes to influence food trends and sell products. The food industry bestows the superfood label on nutrient-rich foods with a supposed capacity to positively affect health.

What is a superfood & why is it important?

The term “superfood” is a fairly new term referring to foods that offer maximum nutritional benefits for minimal calories. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. No standard criteria or legal definitions classify any food as a superfood at this time. However, most superfoods are plant-based.

What are'superfoods'?

So-called "superfoods" are foods that are rich in nutrients. (Image credit: Shutterstock) Superfoods are foods — mostly plant-based but also some fish and dairy — that are nutritionally dense, containing lots of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are good for one's health.

What makes a superfood?

There is no specific criteria defining what makes a superfood, but they are essentially foods that are rich in nutrients and shown to bestow unique benefits to health. Many superfoods are plants, which means that people eating a plant-based, high-fiber diet often benefit from obtaining more of these ingredients.

What is a superfood & how to eat a healthy diet?

A diet based on a variety of nutritious foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, remains the best way to ensure a balanced nutrient intake for optimal health. The concept of the superfood is a popular one when it comes to food and health.

Is there a superfood for good health?

Good health is best supported by eating a variety of nutritious foods every day. Including some or all of the foods on this list as part of a balanced diet can help your overall health and even prevent certain chronic diseases. Nutritionally speaking, there is no such thing as a superfood.

What are the top superfoods?

This article lists the top superfoods, their benefits, and how to incorporate them into your diet. Dark, leafy greens contain vitamins A, C, and K, fiber, magnesium, zinc, iron, and calcium. They also contain phytochemicals (special plant compounds), such as antioxidants, carotenoids, and flavonoids, that offer health benefits.

superfoods References

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