26 Superfoods to Be Eating Right Now
We all have heard the term “superfood” thrown around for years now - but what does it actually mean? A superfood is simply a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being. Scientific research has made certain foods almost like celebrities, with articles and photos of them floating around social media, raving about their benefits and advantages. From the acai bowl trend to wheatgrass shots - the trends are always in but do you know the benefits?
Keep reading to learn about 26 superfoods you may know, and some that may be new to you. Learn how to serve them up to eat or drink, and be on your way to a happier, healthier lifestyle!
Super Seeds
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds have been leading the superfood trends for some time. So what is all the hype about? These little seeds are FULL of antioxidants. Antioxidants fight against free radicals in your body, which can damage cells and lead to diseases like cancer.
Chia seeds also have a huge amount of protein for such a tiny seed, so vegetarians or vegans can easily get some protein in with chia seeds!
Flaxseed
Flaxseed is full of antioxidants, fiber, and high in omega-3’s. Get flaxseeds into your diet by grinding them up and adding them into smoothies, on your morning oatmeal, or leave them whole and sprinkle them into salads or homemade granola.
Here’s a quick, delicious recipe for Energy Balls that include chia seed and flaxseed.
Hemp Seeds
Technically hemp seeds are fruit, and they look like little sunflower seeds. These tiny seeds pack a serious punch.
Full of amino acids, rich in magnesium, iron, and zinc - they also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help if you deal with arthritis, eczema, or asthma. On top of all this - they are FULL of protein.
Sprinkle them on practically anything- they have a sweet nutty taste!
Super Veggies
Broccoli
Not only is it yummy, but the high levels of folic acid and potassium in broccoli help maintain your central nervous system. It also contains immunity-boosting vitamin C and phytonutrients which have been shown to reduce the oxidative damage to cells which causes diseases (such as cancer).
DID YOU KNOW: You can find Broccoli powder in our Teami Superfood Greens Powder!
Dark Leafy Greens (Kale, Spinach, Bok Choy, Chard, Chlorella)
Of course, the most known greens like spinach and kale have been on the superfood list for a while now. So why are they so awesome? Dark leafy green vegetables are full of calcium as well as vitamins A, C, and K. Vitamin K alone can help your blood clot, promote cardiovascular health, and help prevent bone fragility.
You guessed it, our Teami Superfood Greens Powder includes Kale Powder and Chlorella, plus 12 other green superfoods!
Sweet Potatoes
When you want some Vitamin C, you probably don’t think of the sweet potato. But the fact is, it’s loaded with it! It also packs fiber and beta-carotene. Since it is a complex carbohydrate, it takes longer to turn into glucose and you benefit from all its nutrients. Its superpower is in the peel, so cook it and eat it with the peel on to take advantage of all it has to offer.
Super Roots
Beet Root
Beetroot is known for keeping your blood clean. If your vital organs are flowing with healthy blood, then your whole body is happy and functioning better. Add beetroot to your diet by juicing it, or adding beetroot powder to your shakes or smoothies.
Maca
Most commonly used in its powdered form, maca belongs to the radish family. It is good for your general health in a number of ways, by providing a healthy source of iron, calcium, and zinc to name a few. It also helps to restore red blood cells and keep bones and teeth healthy.
Super Tea
Green Tea
Green tea has been called the world’s most popular tea - ever wondered why? It is full of antioxidants that are good for your memory, heart, and skin. It lowers the risk of heart attack and stroke and may help prevent cancer and lower blood pressure.
Matcha
Matcha is a powerful powdered green tea. It boasts all the benefits of green tea, and even higher levels of L-Theanine, which is an amino acid that has a calming effect which can help reduce stress. Add Ceremonial grade matcha tea to your diet by making a yummy tea today!
Peppermint Tea
Full of antioxidant flavonoids, peppermint tea has long been a remedy to soothe the digestive system, making it a great choice for those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. Peppermint tea is caffeine free.
Super Fruits
Lemon
Lemon may be best known for its high levels of vitamin C, but lemon has many superfood qualities as well. Maybe the most important is its ability to rid the body of toxins. The best way to get lemon in your diet? Drink it! Get a tumbler to help you make lemon-infused water, and drink it on the go!
Baobab
The baobab is a fruit from Africa that looks like a large mango with a hard outer shell. The baobab ripens on the tree, and when cracked open, it has dried pulp inside that has naturally dehydrated in the shell.
Baobab is rich in many vitamins and minerals, but the most amazing thing about this superfood is its extremely high levels of vitamin C. It has such high levels it has been said to be one of the best sources for getting vitamin C in the world.
If you can’t get it off a tree in Africa, you can buy baobab in powder form!
Camu Camu
Grown in parts of the Amazon Rainforest, camu camu has been used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. It boasts many benefits, such as anti-viral properties (to fight viruses such as the common cold), high levels of potassium (which helps your heart and kidney function properly), and it’s packed full of essential amino acids.
Super Berries
Goji Berry
The goji berry will provide you with a healthy dose of beta-carotene, which will contribute to healthy skin. They are high in vitamin C and fiber and also a good source of iron. Since they have a high level of protein for a fruit while remaining low in calories, goji berries have become extremely popular. Get your goji berries in tea, add them to your salads or yogurt, or just eat them raw. They’re a yummy treat to curb a sweet tooth!
Acai Berry
Made popular when Oprah announced them as a superfood on her show, these berries have been used for much longer by Amazon natives. They have a similar appearance to blueberries, but are not as available in fresh form, due to the long way they have to travel. But you can get the benefits of these berries in dried form. They are higher in antioxidants than blueberries, and preventing oxidation in your body helps to prevent heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions related to aging.
Super Grass
Barley grass
Rich in antioxidants and essential amino acids, barley grass keeps cholesterol at healthy levels by providing the body with fiber. Add barley grass in powdered form to your smoothie, and the only difference you’ll notice is the rich green color!
Wheatgrass
A small glass of wheatgrass juice can boast as many vitamins and minerals as a huge bowl full of fruits and vegetables. It is a powerful detoxifier, especially of the blood and the liver. It helps get rid of the toxins and pollutants in the body.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass has diuretic properties, which promote detoxification of harmful toxins. It also promotes digestive health by offering anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. Lemongrass can help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and contains numerous vitamins and minerals. Try adding lemongrass to your diet by drinking a blended tea.
Super Spices
Turmeric
Technically a root, turmeric is most widely used as a spice. Turmeric has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Among its many benefits, it helps to heal wounds, aids in balancing blood sugar and helps with aches and stiff joints. Add the vibrant yellow powder to your foods for all these benefits plus to add color and spice!
Ginger
Also a root, ginger can be used in all forms to aid in digestion and decrease nausea in pregnant women or chemotherapy patients. Ginger is also anti-inflammatory so it can aid in ailments associated with arthritis and ease sore muscles. Try this recipe for a Immunity Booster that includes turmeric and raw ginger.
Super Grains
Black Rice
Bursting with antioxidants, Black rice boasts the antioxidant anthocyanin which is believed to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and cancer. It also has essential vitamins and minerals such as copper, iron, thiamine, and riboflavin.
It has high fiber content, folic acid, and amino acids. It is a great carbohydrate if you want to lose weight because it has a low glycemic index. Even though it is also known mythically as ‘forbidden rice’, don’t exclude this gem from your diet!
Oatmeal
Not your grandma’s breakfast anymore, oatmeal is a versatile grain that is high in fiber and helps reduce cholesterol and help boost metabolism. Try this oatmeal recipe that includes matcha green tea powder for an extra antioxidant boost!
Super Proteins
Wild Salmon
Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have been suggested through research to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Salmon also increases the levels of good cholesterol (HDL). High in protein, salmon is a healthy choice if you are trying to lose weight or just reap the benefits of those omega-3s, which boast aiding in sun protection as well as improving your cognitive function.
Black Beans
Black beans have virtually no fat or sugar, are loaded with protein and antioxidants and are extremely inexpensive - making these tiny beans a powerhouse superfood. Their versatility (add them to soups, dips, and dishes) makes it easy to get them into your diet.
Walnuts
This delicious tree nut is very good for you. Walnuts contain vitamin E, magnesium, and protein to name a few. While nuts are high in calories and fat, it is in all the good ways. Eating a handful of nuts every day can help lower blood pressure, promote heart health, and reduce your risk of diabetes.
Conclusion
Adding some of these superfoods to your diet does not have to be overwhelming or difficult. It can be as simple as sprinkling powder into your smoothie or brewing yourself a cup of tea!
Make these nutritious foods a part of your routine and begin to reap the benefits of all their superpowers! How many of these are in your kitchen right now?
Adi Arezzini
Teami Blends - Co-Founder + CEO
Certified Nutrition Health Coach
6 comments
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Hello! I love this list and I’m trying to add in more of these to my daily diet. I’d love an infographic I could print off and keep on my fridge. :o) . Thanks!