10 superfoods for youth and health

Superfoods (from the English superfood – super-food) are called products with the highest content of vitamins, nutrients and trace elements. They increase immunity, strengthen health and prevent aging. Psychotherapist and naturopath Odile Chabriillac talks about the 10 trendiest superfoods.

Even inveterate fans of a healthy lifestyle can get confused in powders, algae, seeds and berries with exotic names. Let’s see what the benefits of the most popular superfoods are.

Algae

First of all, we are talking about spirulina and chlorella. They are rich in protein, B vitamins and various trace elements. For example, spirulina contains almost double the amount of iron and the daily supply of manganese.

According to a number of studies, these algae have a strong antioxidant effect and can even prevent the occurrence of certain types of cancer. But there is one downside. Algae absorb toxins and heavy metals from the water. Therefore, they should be consumed in moderation or in the form of dietary supplements from large manufacturers.

Wheat sprouts

Wheat grains contain a lot of useful substances, flavonoids, vitamins C and E. But all this is in an inactive phase. Only when the grain gives a young sprout, its contents are mobilized. That is why germinated wheat (or wheat germ) is many times more useful than ordinary grains or their derivatives.

Wheatgrass is sold in different forms – fresh, dried, powdered, pasteurized, in the form of juice or capsules. In any case, they strengthen the immune system, reduce the risk of cancer.

Noni

Noni or Morinda citrus grows in South Asia, Hawaii, Australia, New Guinea and the islands of French Polynesia. According to experts, the high amount of antioxidants in noni juice helps protect cells from oxidative stress.

Morinda juice has a tonic, immunomodulatory effect and restores the body’s natural defenses. The main disadvantage of the product is the exorbitant price. In principle, you can find no less useful products for a more adequate price.

Turmeric

This spice is often referred to as a natural antibiotic. It has beneficial effects on liver function and helps lower cholesterol levels, as well as improves digestion and may reduce the risk of ulcers. Turmeric slows down the development of multiple sclerosis. By participating in the metabolism of fats, it helps to stabilize weight. It softens the effects of radiotherapy, therefore it is used in the rehabilitation of patients with cirrhosis of the liver.

Royal Jelly

Supplements called Gelée Royale (that is, “Royal Jelly”) in France can be bought at any pharmacy. The capsules contain a mixture that is secreted by nurse bees to feed the queen of the hive and larvae.

Royal jelly contains various hormones, including acetylcholine, known as the hormone of creativity or the enlightened mind. It facilitates mental activity and strengthens blood vessels. In addition, vitamins B present in royal jelly5 and B7 improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails.

Blueberry

These berries contain flavonoids – substances that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It is believed that blueberries are the champion in their content, moreover, they do not lose their properties either in dried or frozen form. Blueberries improve vision, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve brain function. Blueberry leaves are no less beneficial to health than its berries.

Garlic

Garlic has always been valued by Ayurvedic experts. Modern scientists have proven its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Garlic strengthens the immune system and prevents colds.

Researchers have found that those who eat more than six cloves of garlic a week are 30% less likely to get colon cancer and 50% less likely to get stomach cancer than those who don’t eat garlic. Finally, garlic prevents blood clots and improves blood circulation.

Goji

These berries are used in Chinese medicine. In the West, they are credited with a variety of miraculous properties – from weight loss to improved sexual function. However, we can only say with confidence that goji are a source of a whole complex of vitamins and amino acids, help strengthen the immune system and have an antioxidant effect.

Чиа

The seeds of the South American plant contain an incredible amount of the essential omega-3 acid: they contain 10 times more than salmon. And iron in chia is 6 times more than in spinach.

In a liquid, such as juice or milk, chia swells and increases in size. The resulting dish contains not so many calories, but allows you to permanently eliminate the feeling of hunger. Therefore, chia will certainly be included in the diet of those who follow the figure.

Garnet

Pomegranate juice contains 15 amino acids, 6 of which are found, in addition to pomegranate, only in meat and are indispensable for the human body. That is why pomegranate is a must for all vegetarians. In addition, this fruit is an excellent source of vitamins C, P, B6 and B12.

Pomegranate tannins have a disinfectant effect, help to cope with dysbacteriosis and intestinal infections, as well as improve appetite.

About expert

Odile Shabriyak(Odile Chabrillac) – journalist, naturopath and psychotherapist. Author of the French version of Psychologies. He has a blog about healthy lifestyle.

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