8 foods that deserve to be called 'superfoods'

Foods with high nutritional value are often referred to as 'superfoods'. So what are these foods?

1. The term "superfood"

The term "superfood" is used to define foods that are high in specific nutrients (antioxidants, vitamins, or minerals) and have additional health benefits.

However, there is no accepted scientific definition for a superfood. A food is labeled a “superfood” when it is claimed to have multiple health benefits at once or to help prevent disease.

The term superfood is said to have been popularized in the early 20th century when a company in the world used the term in its marketing strategy. The company actively marketed the health benefits of bananas, encouraging people to include the fruit in their daily diet on the basis that they were cheap, easy to find, nutritious, easy to digest and could be consumed both cooked and raw. The idea of ​​bananas as a superfood then became more popular as doctors and nutritionists appreciated the nutritional value of bananas.

Bananas are said to be the first food to be called a "superfood".

Overall, some foods labeled as superfoods have the potential to provide health benefits when consumed in appropriate amounts alongside other nutritious foods. It is important that a healthy diet should not only include superfoods but also include a variety of other healthy foods. Even superfoods should only be consumed as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

2. How to add superfoods to your daily diet?

When choosing the best nutrients for your diet, it is important to remember that no single food can provide all the essential nutrients needed for a healthy life. Focusing too much on superfoods can detract from other, more nutrient-dense, healthy foods.

According to the Ministry of Health 's "Ten tips for proper nutrition by 2030", it is emphasized that eating enough, balanced and varied foods every day; reasonably combining foods of animal and plant origin. Daily use of foods rich in micronutrients; vegetables, tubers and fruits of different colors. Carefully read the nutritional information on food labels before buying and using...

3. What foods are "superfoods"?

A balanced diet, prioritizing healthy foods, is good for health and improves resistance.

While there are some superfoods that are overhyped, there are some foods that are recognized by many nutritionists for their health benefits and nutritional value.

Here is a list of foods that provide nutritional, health benefits:

Berries: Rich in fiber, antioxidants and disease-fighting nutrients.

Fish: This is a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are very good for heart health.

Green leafy vegetables: Dark green leafy vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium and bioactive plant compounds.

Nuts: For example, hazelnuts, cashews, pecans, almonds, and walnuts are good sources of protein and heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids.

Olive Oil: This vegetable oil is a source of vitamin E, polyphenols, and monounsaturated fatty acids.

Whole grains: Whole grains are a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber, B vitamins, minerals, and bioactive plant compounds.

Yogurt: Many varieties are rich in calcium, protein, and beneficial bacteria (probiotics).

Legumes: For example, kidney beans, soybeans, lentils, chickpeas, and peas are good sources of plant protein, fiber, and folate.

Several studies have evaluated the health benefits of superfoods. Bioactive peptides found in various food crops such as corn, common beans, amaranth, quinoa, and chia seeds are known to possess a variety of properties, including antihypertensive, anticholesterol, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. As such, these foods are designated as “superfoods” and are often included in food formulations.

However, some studies have shown that superfoods are often overhyped, and the scientific data claiming disease-preventing properties of certain superfoods is largely inconsistent and inconclusive.

Source: https://giadinh.suckhoedoisong.vn/8-loai-thuc-pham-xung-dang-la-sieu-thuc-pham-172250105230100808.htm