According to a recent news article, superfoods are trending down. Not all superfoods, just the ones that have been the media darlings, acai, goji berries and the like. I actually like this trend because as I wrote previously (back in 2008 I might add) we don't need to import superfoods. Bringing them to your table from other countries that adds to the environmental impact of sourcing them. We would do better to utilize those that are readily available. It's more sustainable, eco-friendly, and also easier on your wallet.
What are superfoods
While there isn't a true definition for a superfood, it's generally accepted that they are foods with high levels of vitamins, minerals, and/or antioxidants. Eating them is supposed to be beneficial due to their increased nutrient values. To take advantage of their health benefits, choose local, or domestic, options.
Domestic superfoods
Berries– with lots of fiber and antioxidants they're great and easy to add to the diet in cereal, yogurt, salads, plain, anytime.
Eggs – high in protein (1 egg provides 6 g) with lutein and zeaxanthin (good for your eyes) eggs are nourishing, versatile and satisfying.
Nuts – raw and unsalted are the best. Soaked nuts are optimal for good nutrition. Providing monosaturated fats they are a great heart-healthy choice. Add them to foods such as cereals or baked good or take some along for healthy nutrition boosting snack.
Broccoli – yes, it is a super food. With an amazing nutritional punch, it provides not only fiber and a wide range of vitamins, but it also has sulforaphane which is a potent cancer-fighting detoxifier.
Beans – with a hefty dose of fiber and iron beans are an all-around good for you food. Soups, stews, and dips are a great way to add them to your meals.
Beta-carotenes – okay so this isn't a food but rather a group of foods. Found in orange foods (think sweet potatoes, winter squashes, carrots, etc) and dark leafy greens (the chlorophyll hides the color) like kale, spinach, collards, and more betacarotene is a powerful antioxidant that supports immune system health, reproductive health, and it's very good for your eyes.
So while imported superfoods may be trending down I'm rooting for an overall upward trend in the concept of nourishing foods.
