Spirulina, Goji berries, chia… superfoods are everywhere. For the last few years, they have been invading supermarket shelves, health store displays and magazine covers. Superfoods are the Holy Grail of food, a wholesome touch to your home cooking.
Available as food supplements, medicinal plants or fresh produce to consume, superfoods have many qualities praised by health professionals, nutritionists and sports coaches. Today there are superfoods to satisfy all kinds of tastes and desires, and some are really surprising! So what are superfoods, really?
What is a superfood exactly?
Superfoods are mainly fruits, oilseeds, spices, grains, microalgae or vegetables containing concentrated levels of nutrients, vitamins and minerals.
If you are looking to supplement your diet with minerals, essential fatty acids, protein, fiber, enzymes, or even antioxidants, there are many superfoods that will help you. Forget about industrially processed products and fill your snack food pantry with acai berries, turmeric and cranberries. These are your allies in the fight against disease and aging, plus they’re delicious!
When consumed in appropriate quantities, the value of superfoods are far superior to that of conventional foods.
Some superfoods are known to reduce the risk of cancer, protect against cardiovascular disease or even improve intestinal transit. If you are athletic, you should consume them regularly and in large quantities. They help strengthen muscles, improve performance, and promote better recovery. Superfoods have great benefits for you!
Also, if your diet is not balanced enough, superfoods can help you avoid nutritional deficiencies. They also slow visual degeneration and cellular aging. All this, and they are 100% natural. Wait no longer to add them to your plate!
Superfoods: which ones to choose and how to eat them?
Choose your superfoods well
Are you convinced? Fantastic. Now you just need to choose the superfoods that suit you.
Ginseng, blueberry, ginger and more; there are multitudes of superfoods you can add to your diet to improve and preserve your health. If you are a woman or a great athlete, why not go for spirulina? A source of iron, calcium and magnesium, this microalgae also contains complete proteins, which promote blood production and improve cardiorespiratory endurance. This superfood may also improve muscle recovery.
Are you a fan of caffeine? Replace your morning coffee with a good dose of guarana. This natural stimulant has the advantage of not being addictive. It is the ideal partner for marathon runners, as it helps them avoid running out of steam.
The Goji berry, a small berry from South America, is good for a little boost during exercise. This little bomb of energy is a source of protein, iron, potassium and fiber.
Are you a bodybuilder? Maca and fenugreek are sources of potassium, calcium, phosphorus and vitamins. They are the ideal partners in your physical preparation. Our Natierra Cacao Powder with Maca is great in smoothies, yogurts and baked goods! Fenugreek is a natural anabolic, which strengthens your muscles while adding a delicious taste to your food.
How to consume your superfoods
Most superfoods can be eaten fresh. Garlic, cabbage or blackcurrant are easily found in the produce section of your local supermarket. If you choose powdered products, be they capsules or twigs, you should systematically check the labels to make sure you are consuming a good quality product. Always give preference to organic products in order to get the most benefit from any superfood you choose.
Some superfoods can be eaten as is. Others taste better when mixed with regular foods, such as milkshakes or smoothies. You can consume superfoods with a purpose, such as ones that fight against fatigue or are marked as good support components for athletic activities. They can also be consumed daily, as general supplements, but always make sure you have a varied and balanced diet.
Consuming superfoods alone is not enough to maintain good health. The key to success in your nutritional quest is variety and moderation. And there is a whole range of superfoods to try, ranging from chia seeds to Goji berries… pick what you like and let your body enjoy the superpowers of superfoods!
Don’t hesitate to send us your feedback and recipes on instagram @natierrasuperfoods
Coline