Also known as functional foods, superfoods are any type of processed or fresh food that is loaded with vitamins and other nutrients known to combat specific illness or promote the strengthening of the body’s immune system. The term was first used in Japan during 1980 to identify foods that could be used in the treatment of specific health issues. There are many different types of superfood powder on the market today, as well as a number of supplements that are made from selected types of superfood products
In terms of processed foods, a superfood can be any type of vegetable, meat, or fruit that has been enhanced with additional nutrition in some form. For example, if the packaged food includes additional herbs and spices to replace the amount of salt present, the product would meet the basic definition for a superfood. The same is true with any juice blend that includes several different fruits or vegetables in order to provide more nutrition in a single serving.
One of the more recognizable examples of a superfood is natural foodstuffs that contain high amounts of chlorophyll and antioxidants. Various types of seaweed is an example of this type of green super food. They tend to contain high concentrations of essential minerals. Chlorella and spirulina are two other examples of green superfood sources that are often used in many commercial supplements.
Whole grains often meet the basic requirement to be known as a superfood. Alfalfa and barley both contain a wide range of vitamins and minerals that help to support the healthy function of just about every system in the body. Wheat grasses also provide a significant amount of nutrients and may be consumed as a flour, powder, or be juiced to produce a nourishing liquid.
Lemon peel, rose hips, and orange peel are also considered examples of a superfood. The high amount of Vitamin C found in each, along with calcium and other minerals is augmented with the presence of a healthy dose of bioflavinoids. The pectin content of the orange and lemon peels is also considered helpful for their ability to flush out excess amounts of heavy metals from the body.
It is possible to integrate superfoods into the daily diet with relative ease. Some examples of super food, such as fresh spinach, can be found in any supermarket. Acai berries and commercial products such as Fruta&Reg; can be purchased in some health food grocery stores and vitamin shops; they are also available for purchase by mail order and online. Seaweed products can often be purchased at ethnic supermarkets as well as from online sources. While some of the superfood options are more expensive, there are many options that are no more expensive than other foods that do not contain the same level of nutrition.
