A list of superfoods can be a nice little tool for increasing nutritional diversity. Here are a few of the best superfood options to try in 2017.
Maca
While it’s not a brand new kind of superfood, maca will be around for many years to come. It’s definitely one of the products to include in the list of superfoods to consume in 2017.
Maca is a native to Peru and it’s a radish-like root. It’s been used as a food and as an ingredient of traditional medicine for centuries. Maca is recognized for its energizing properties and it’s also considered a powerful aphrodisiac/fertility booster.
Analysis shows that the maca root is particularly rich in essential nutrients. It’s a source of amino acids, fiber, trace minerals and a wide array of vitamins. These have a positive impact on nearly all bodily systems, especially the cardiovascular system. Maca can be consumed in the form of powders, supplements and maca concentrate.
Sauerkraut
The fermented form of cabbage was recognized as a superfood only recently. While it’s been around for centuries, people are currently beginning to focus more on its amazing health benefits.
Just like most other fermented foods, sauerkraut is a source of probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and help strengthen the immune response. In addition, probiotics improve digestion and reduce allergy symptoms.
On top of owing its fermentation to beneficial bacteria, sauerkraut is a source of various important nutrients that the human body needs to function properly. These include potassium, dietary fiber, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium and vitamin B6.
Amaranth
Amaranth is a type of cereal grain that’s a Central America native. This superfood is gluten-free, it’s an excellent source of protein and it also provides iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium and fiber. Amaranth has anti-inflammatory properties and it can influence health in a range of positive ways.
For a start, amaranth contains powerful antioxidants that protect the cells from damage. There’s also some evidence that amaranth can be used to prevent the mutation of normal cells into cancerous cells.
In addition, the consumption of amaranth enhances bone density, improves cardiovascular health and lowers bad cholesterol, contributes to healthy weight loss and can even reduce the risk of birth defects during pregnancy.
Cactus Water
Cactus water is one of the latest trends in the world of healthy eating. There are several reasons why it has become so popular.
This is a low calorie beverage that provides important nutrients without contributing to the accumulation of body fat. It’s derived from the prickly pear cactus and it’s a source of sugar, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, electrolytes and minerals. In some senses, cactus water is comparable to coconut water but it has a higher nutritional value.
The consumption of cactus water has been linked to a number of health benefits. The most important ones include reduced inflammatory response, enhanced cardiovascular health, better digestion, a stronger immune response and regulated bowel movements.
These are just some of the superfoods to add to an already healthy diet. More traditional superfoods like honey, quinoa, farro, seaweed, matcha, goji berries and nutritional yeast should not be ignored either.
