Anyone interested in healthy eating cannot avoid one term at the moment: superfoods. Many manufacturers use the term to promote their products, and many nutrition blogs also recommend integrating alleged "miracle cures" into the daily diet. But can superfoods really do more than other foods? What characterizes products referred to by this catchy term? We took a closer look at the trendy term and summarized everything important about the sought-after superfoods for you.
What are Superfoods?
There is no official or even legally binding definition for the term superfood. This is important for you as a consumer to know, because it means that any food or beverage can be called a superfood by the manufacturer. However, there are, of course, non-binding definitions. The EUFIC (European Food Information Council) describes superfoods as "foods, especially fruits and vegetables, that have a higher health benefit than other foods due to their nutrient content". Even if definitions like these leave a lot of room for interpretation, they provide a starting point for what we can expect from a superfood.
Foods that combine many health benefits are considered superfoods. These include
- High nutrient content
- High content of antioxidants and vitamins
-
Low calorie count
The most common Superfoods
- Berries: They contain many vitamins, fiber, and phytochemicals such as antioxidants. In addition to controversial exotics such as acai or goji, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are also considered superfoods.
- Algae, grasses, and herbs are considered nutrient bombs due to their high iron and mineral content. Algae also contain the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, which have high bioavailability.
- Spices like ginger and turmeric contain minerals, essential oils, and antioxidants, among other things.
- Seeds and kernels are often rich in fiber and other vital nutrients.
- Fermented products such as sauerkraut, kimchi, or kombucha are rich in probiotic bacterial cultures that can strengthen the gut microbiome.
Healthy eating in everyday life
Berries contain many vitamins – especially vitamins B and C – as well as antioxidants. They support heart function and normal blood pressure.
- Strawberries also provide folic acid, which is particularly important during pregnancy.
- Blueberries support digestion, skin health, and cell vitality.
- Raspberries have a positive effect on blood sugar levels, strengthen the immune system, and promote heart health.
Matcha is considered an energizer due to its caffeine content, and thanks to many antioxidants and vitamins, the green tea also has a positive effect on the body and counteracts fatigue.
Coconut contains many proteins, which, together with vitamin B12, are good for our energy metabolism.
The targeted addition of other vitamins ensures further health-promoting effects in our DIY balls. Our mixes are free from preservatives or other unnecessary additives and are easy to prepare in just 10 minutes. Safely stored in the packaging can, they will accompany you at home and on the go for 2-3 days.
Conclusion: No miracle cures, but still great!
- The term "superfoods" is often used misleadingly. Superfoods do not replace a healthy diet and are not miracle cures.
- However, particularly nutrient-rich foods with many important ingredients are an important part of a healthy diet. Variety and diversity are key.
- Superfoods do not have to have traveled far. Local fruits and vegetables, as well as nuts and seeds, can also be enjoyed in various forms of preparation.
- In everyday life, foods with many nutrients help to eat healthily even on the go and with little time. Our Healthy Affair snack balls take advantage of the health-promoting effects of raspberries, strawberries, matcha, and co!