Blueberries, quinoa and kale have all served us well and will continue to do so for they keep our bodies healthy and energetic.
However, we’ll have to make some room for a brand new range superfoods that will help us stay in great shape and fend off diseases. These superfoods will also add excitement to our daily/weekly meal-planning! Check them out.
These 10 foods have been recommended by experts, from veggies and extracts to seeds and oils, and they’ll be making their way to supermarket shelves, recipes and, yes, even into our social media in 2019. They are all packed with good-for-you nutrients that help with everything from disease prevention to reduced inflammation.
Seaweed
Seaweed is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, and zinc, and it’s also high in iodine, which you need for healthy thyroid function and regulates energy levels, mood, and weight. Christy Brissette, RD, a registered dietitian and president of 80 Twenty Nutrition in Chicago, recommends ordering seaweed salad at Japanese restaurants or adding dried seaweed to popcorn, trail mix, soup, roasted veggies, and grain bowls.
Watermelon Seeds
It’s likely no surprise to you that watermelon has long been hailed as a superfood, but research has shown that the seeds can be equally healthy, so don’t be so quick to spit them out. A handful of watermelon seeds is only 20 calories, and they contain fiber and healthy fats along with some vitamin E and small amounts of iron, magnesium, and folate. Go for sprouted watermelon seeds for even more nutritional benefits.
Cassava Flour
The resistant starch found in cassava and cassava flour is a type of fiber that feeds your healthy gut bacteria and helps boost your digestive health while also lowering inflammation, according to 80 Twenty Nutrition, Christy President, Brissette. It may also help control blood sugar and help you feel more full after eating, which could help with weight loss.
“This gluten-free flour is gaining popularity. It’s also nut-free, which is great for people with allergies. Cassava flour has a fine, light texture and neutral flavor so it works well in all kinds of recipes, including muffins and pancakes.
Maqui Berries
Maqui berries help lower inflammation thanks to antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, ellagic acid, and flavonoids. “There’s some evidence that maqui berries can help with dry eyes and diabetes, and a small research study in people with prediabetes found that macqui berry extract could help lower fasting insulin and glucose levels. In another small study, taking maqui berry extract for over 3 months lowered hemoglobin A1C (plasma glucose concentration) and LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) while raising good LDL cholesterol.
Moringa
Moringa is increasing in popularity, and for good reason. In addition to being chock-full of protein, iron, and calcium, some research suggests it might support milk production in new mothers — always consult a doctor before consuming supplements or new foods while lactating.
Moringa is a great source of vitamin C that will promote a healthy immune system. It is also a good source of antioxidants that will help prevent free radicals from causing damage to your cells
Sauerkraut
Like kimchi and kefir, sauerkraut is rich in probiotics, a type of good bacteria that can improve your immune health, boost your metabolism, and promote digestive health. Sauerkraut could also be helpful in preventing sickness, thanks to its antibacterial properties. Because it’s made from cabbage, sauerkraut is also packed with vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports your immune system, vitamin K for bone health, and fiber, which can help keep you regular and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Hemp
Not only are hemp hearts and seeds a great source of plant-based protein, they also have an optimal ratio of 3:1 omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a great way to fight inflammation throughout the body while building strong muscles and bones. Brigitte Zeitlin, MPH, RD, a registered dietitian and owner of BZ Nutrition in New York City, recommends keeping a bag of hemp hearts in your refrigerator, because the seeds stay fresh for longer there than when kept in a cabinet. From there, you can add the seeds to salads, avocado toast, oatmeal, stir-fry, and more.
Chaga Mushrooms
Chaga mushrooms have grown increasingly popular, particularly blended into coffee, tea, and other beverage mixes. These fiber-rich mushrooms are a great source of B vitamins, vitamin D, magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants like selenium, and have anti-inflammatory effects, too. They have also been linked with lowering cholesterol, boosting heart health, and managing chronic illnesses.
Trout
If you love fish, then this one will not be an issue for you to add on to your list of superfoods. Trout is high in omega-3s, which may help promote heart health by supporting healthy blood pressure and triglyceride levels. The oily fish is also high in protein and an excellent source of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which you need for a healthy heart, brain, and eyes.
Kefir
There are two types you can choose from: water kefir or milk kefir. Both are probiotics rich and help with your gut health by normalising the count of good bacteria. They are relatively easy to make and consume at home – you’ll need a starter pack to get you going. These are available at all good health stores, and they can even be purchased online.
Article: www.popsugar.com
