You’ve probably heard about superfoods and their unbelievable benefits, but do you really have all the details on this nutritional mega group? They’re like the superheroes of the food world! So, to help you along on your path of health and happiness, we’ve put together a guide of everything you need to know about superfoods. Start munching now!
What are superfoods?
Superfoods are nutrient-rich ingredients that benefit the body in multiple ways. Nutritionist Parul Khanna, SCI International Hospital, New Delhi says, “Superfoods are like super heroes that protect our body. They are very low in calories and have the super quality to reduce the risk of ailments such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease”. See? It’s like we said: superheroes! For instance, tomatoes are superfoods that contain carotene lycopene, which is a powerful natural anti-oxidant. Soy is rich in protein and it also has zero calories and no fats. Guess what you’ll be adding to your diet, asap.
“Most of the time we are already consuming these foods without knowing that they are superfoods,” adds Parul. They are easily available and don’t require a lot of sourcing. But if you can’t find them, don’t panic, as Parul adds, “You don’t need to compulsorily consume them unless you have a deficiency, which needs to be fulfilled with these foods. Many of these foods can also be easily substituted”.To illustrate, superfoods like acai berries, maca and goji berries are not easily available in India, but you don’t require them unless you have a special nutritional deficiency.
Superfoods you should be eating
Nuts: Walnuts, almonds and pistachios are a great source of protein and fibre and they are all high in nutrient value.
Kale: It is rich in anti-oxidants and serves as a great source of fiber, calcium and iron.
Ginger: Known for its medicinal properties, ginger adds a strong flavour when mixed with tea or water and helps cure nausea, motion sickness and indigestion.
Green Tea: Rich in anti-oxidants, a cup of green tea works as a great remedy for many health problems. It also helps in losing weight.
Berries: All kinds of berries like blueberries, cranberries and strawberries classify as superfoods. Berries are a rich source of vitamin C. They are powerful anti-oxidants and very low on calories.
Chia seeds: They are loaded with essential fatty acids and nutrients like iron, magnesium, potassium and calcium.
Quinoa: A protein-rich ingredient, quinoa provides all the nine essential amino acids, which our bodies can’t produce on their own.
Oatmeal: Oatmeal is high in fiber content and anti-oxidants, which makes it extremely nutritious for the body.
Where to look for superfoods?
Parul suggests a visit to Modern Bazaar in DLF, Delhi, which stocks all the superfoods. But if you are looking for foreign produce (which are also more expensive) Godrej Nature’s Basket and Foodhall are the best places to buy them.
In Mumbai, Nutritionist Disha Jhaver Shah suggests visiting food malls like Reliance Fresh. You can also buy them at Godrej Nature’s Basket and Foodhall or order them online from Shophealthy.in and Naturallyyours.in.
