In the search for a healthier way of life, many people look to the health benefits of superfoods to improve overall health and wellbeing and nutrition.
These natural ailments are full of vitamins and minerals and beneficial compounds that help to improve our health.
In this article we explore the positive impact and effects that some of these superfoods can have on our health, focusing on cocoa. turmeric, ginger, matcha tea, Extra virgin olive oil and Hydroxytyrosol, also not forgetting Red fruits and berries. So how can these ailments potentially help our health and wellbeing?
Cocoa The raw material of chocolate and a superfood is charged with antioxidants. These compounds help to combat free radicals in our system and reduce oxidative stress. Whatsmore, cocoa contains flavonoids which help to improve cardiovascular health, reduce arterial pressure and improve blood pressure. It has also been demonstrated that the consumption of cocoa helps to improve mood and reduce the risk of chronic illness and diseases such as diabetes and heart problems.
Turmeric (Curcumin) is a spice widely used in the kitchen and has valuable anti-inflammatory properties. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin which is attributed to numerous health benefits. It has been demonstrated that curcumin has antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties that can help to combat and overcome chronic illnesses such as arthritis, cancer and heart disease. It also helps to improve digestive health and strengthen the immune system.
Ginger is another superfood that has traditionally been used for its medicinal properties. This root has powerful antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties but its most commonly known benefit is its ability to aid and have a positive effect on digestion, and relieving nausea and sickness. Ginger can help to reduce digestive symptoms, stomach acid and nauseas associated with faintness and pregnancy. It has also been demonstrated that ginger has anesthetic properties which makes it an ideal natural option for relieving pain.
Matcha tea is a variety of green tea that has become very popular in recent times due to its healthy properties and benefits. Matcha tea is elaborated from pulverizing the leaves of green tea into a fine powder allowing the full benefits to be appreciated. It is a superfood rich in antioxidants known as catechins, that can help to protect damaged cells caused by free radicals. It also contains caffeine that can help to improve alertness and mental concentration.
Extra Virgin Olive oil is a key ingredient in the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits. Olive oil is a source of healthy fats like monounsaturated fatty acid which can help to reduce LDL cholesterol, or bad cholesterol found in our system. It helps promote a healthy heart and it also contains phenolic compounds such as Hydroxytyrosol which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds can help to fight against cardiovascular illnesses, premature aging and certain types of cancer.
Red berries and fruits such as strawberries, blackcurrants, blackberries, redcurrants and raspberries are excellent antioxidants. These small but delicious berries contain vitamin C and anthocyanins as well as other beneficial ingredients that can help to combat free radicals, reduce oxidative stress in our systems. The antioxidants present in red berries are associated with healthy brain function, vision and the prevention of chronic illness, heart disease and certain types of cancers. They are low in calories, rich in fiber making them a healthy option to include in daily diets.
In short, the inclusion of superfoods into our diets such as cocoa, turmeric, ginger, matcha tea, olive oil, Hydroxytyrosol and red berries can have an extremely positive effect on our overall health and wellbeing. These ailments are full of nutritious benefits and compounds that help to strengthen our immune systems, improve and contribute towards healthy heart function and cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Make the most of the benefits these superfoods have to offer to enjoy a healthier life and state of wellness.