العربيةWhen it comes to healthy foods, we are spoilt for choice with a wide range of nutritious options available at supermarkets whether they are fruits, vegetables, fish or nuts.
We are even seeing the shift of restaurants and cafes moving towards this sector by introducing more healthy items to their menus which really isn’t a surprise given that the majority of people today are prioritising their health and wellbeing.
If you’re looking to broaden your horizons and try something new in your diet, then ‘superfoods’ could be the answer. As a chef with more than 8 years of experience, some of these foods not only bring out the most incredible flavours but also contribute to a better and healthier you.
More importantly, they are nutrient-rich that not only optimises your immune system but can also reduce inflammation and kill harmful bacteria.
Here are five superfoods, some that you may not have heard before which I recommend that can help you live a more longer, productive and healthier life.
- Spirulina
Termed as the ‘best food for the future’, this type of blue-green microalgae is one of the highest protein-rich foods with just one tablespoon containing between 5 to 6 grams of bioavailable protein content. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, this powder can be added to your favourite smoothie, mixed (a spoonful) into your oatmeal or sprinkled onto your salad.
- Hemp seeds
Around 100g of this superfood contains 37 grams of protein, which is approximately twice the amount of most other nut and seed varieties. Rich in omega 3 and 6, hemp seeds meet 73 per cent of the daily value for protein based on a 2,000 calorie diet and contains vitamin E, as well as magnesium which are beneficial for healthy skin, hair and bones.
- Camu Camu Powder
Used regularly in beverages and smoothies, this tropical fruit from the Amazon possesses high vitamin C content and is considered an all-important nutrient for the modern day lifestyle. This powder is so nutritious that around a quarter or half a teaspoon a day is usually enough to meet the adult daily requirements.
Additionally, you may find a berry flavour of this powder which can help nourish your eyes and retina. Among the ingredients included are carotenoids, which can help protect your eye-sight from diseases.
- Cruciferous vegetables
Packed with vitamins and minerals and an excellent source of fibre and phytochemicals that may prevent against certain types of cancer, it’s more often than not that you have eaten cruciferous vegetables before. Broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collard greens, kale, mustard seeds, radishes and turnips are among the foods that belong to this group.
- Legumes
If you’re a fan of kidney and garbanzo beans, soybeans or peas, then you’ve eaten this type of vegetable before. Legumes have plenty of health benefits – they’re low in fat, have no cholesterol and have the same amount of calcium as a glass of milk. They are also an excellent source of fibre, folate and plant-based protein and can help reduce the risk of heart disease, according to studies.
