Superfoods…
August 6th, 2012
Superfoods is a term used to describe certain food groups which have amazing recorded properties, documented in clinical research and bibliography. Currently there’s no legal definition of what constitutes a superfood, however the tag has been applied because of their concentrated array of nutritional benefits. They contain a rich compliment of varied amino acids, vitamins and minerals which facilitate the possibilities of superior mental and physical health.
Below is a list of some of the most popular superfoods which can be sourced in Scoopaway.
Acai Berries: Is a small forest fruit found in the Amazon with a wide range of beneficial properties. I contains high levels of iron, calcium and carbohydrates, nutrients which boost energy and endurance while it is also rich in antioxidants contributing to an overall better body function. In Brazil, it is used as a high performance fuel for all activities and especially for the sexual ones!
In addition Acai Berries provide good levels of antioxidants, omega fatty acids, amino acids and vitamins, great for enhancing the immune system, prevent cell damage and protect against disease.
Bilberry: A small, blue forest fruit with some rare beneficial properties. It is harvested in many different countries. It has a high concentration of anthocyanidins, a pigment antioxidant that accounts for bilberry’s blue colour.
Recent research has suggested that Anthocyanidins may help maintain eye and heart health.
Goji Berries: Some very weird and wonderful claims have been made recently regarding the help they can give to the immune system.
Used for centuries in Chinese medicine. It is considered as one of the richest natural sources of nutrients as it contains b-carotene, vitamin C, vitamins B1 and B2. They are very rich in immunomodulatory polysaccharides. In addition to this Goji Berries also contain the trace mineral germanium, which is known to increase numbers and regulate the action of CD4 cells and help regulate different immunological responses.
Grape Seed Extract: The extract of Grape Seeds is a natural nutrient rich in chemicals known as polyphenols, including flavonoids and antioxidants.
Green Tea: The evergreen bush grows in China, Japan, India, Sri Lanka and other places around the world with tropical weather conditions. Tea (especially the green one) has been the most common drink for more than 4,000 years because of its pleasant taste and its beneficial attributes believed to be strong in antioxidants
Lucuma
Stevia: Is derived from the Stevia plant – a small shrub grown largely in Latin America that has been used for centuries by the indigenous population to sweeten their food and drink.
It is a great natural alternative to sugar, not only is it calorie free, making it useful for weight management, but it doesn’t increase blood glucose levels making it particularly suitable for people with diabetes. The increasing prevalence of diabetes in the UK should welcome this tasty alternative to sugar which is both chemical free and completely natural.
…and don’t forget the humble bean! Although superfoods have been basking in recent media light, we should not forget about the rich variety of beans available today. They are such a good, all round nutritious ingredient that doesn’t get the same celebrity treatment. Beans have more protein than any other vegetable. They are high in fibre, both soluble fibre which helps lower blood cholesterol and insoluble fibre which improves digestive health. They also have a low Gi index, low in fat and a good source of iron. They have also been known to give relief for menopausal symptoms as they are a natural source of phytoestrogens.