We’ve all heard of superfoods and that they are incredibly healthy. But what actually makes a food a ‘superfood’?
Well, superfoods are high nutritional foods that contain a dense concentration of essential vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, good fats, and healthy enzymes that are beneficial to our health.
They basically pack a big nutritional punch and can give our diet a healthy boost, while reducing our risk of developing various health problems.
The antioxidants found in superfoods help defend against free radicals (which can damage our cells and cause illness and aging), and they naturally stimulate and normalize the function of many vital organs.
There are lots of different superfoods to choose from. Some of my favorites are:
Dark leafy greens and vegetables such as kale and spinach, Brussels sprouts and broccoli. They are an excellent source of folate, zinc, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber.
Berries are loaded with antioxidants and phytonutrients, and are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C.
Pomegranates have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, they are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, vitamins C and K, fiber, folate and potassium.
Goji Berries are full of antioxidants, and are rich in iron, zinc, selenium, riboflavin, fiber, protein, and vitamins A and C.
Spirulina has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contains all the essential amino acids, vitamins A, K, and B’s, calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium.
Wheatgrass is loaded with nutrients including vitamins A, C, E, K, and B’s, as well as iron, magnesium and calcium, and amino acids and flavonoids.
Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Nuts & seeds are rich in fiber, protein, heart-healthy fats, with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Chia seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, packed with antioxidants, rich in calcium, potassium, magnesium, protein and iron, and high in soluble fiber which also makes them great for constipation.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle and aging healthily can help to improve our quality of life and general health as we get older.
The foods we eat now will have a considerable impact on our health in the future. It’s important that we eat nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, and healthy fats, and to avoid eating too many processed and packaged foods. Drinking healthy smoothies and juices can be a great way to include superfoods into our diet.
Find out more on healthy living in the “Life Doesn’t Stop at 50 Survival Guide on Aging Healthily!”
Thekla Coumas is a Naturopathic Nutritionist, Alkaline Diet Adviser, and Life Coach.
She shares her own personal healthy aging experience, adventures, and tips on how to age healthily through her book, and her ‘Life Doesn’t Stop at 50’ social media platforms and website www.lifedoesntstopat50.com
