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Super-foods are foods that contain a much greater than average level of various critical nutrients. We may hear more about superfood spices or seeds, but there are plenty of “superfruits” as well. Here are 14 superfruits that should be part of your diet. We’ll also take the time to explain why these fruits are considered superfruits.
Figs
Figs are more than a sweet treat. They provide a fair dose of fiber, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. They also help to regulate our blood sugar level. You’ll see these benefits whether you eat them fresh or dried. If you aren’t fond of figs, consider consuming cherries instead. They’ve been shown to promote healthy blood sugar levels, too.
Cherries
Not only are cherries delicious but they are full of great nutrients as well. Cherries get their rich red color from anthocyanin, an antioxidant that has been shown to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels while having some anti-inflammatory properties, too. As a matter of fact, a recent study that was performed by the University of Michigan found that lab rats who were fed cherries showed reduced levels of two markers associated with blood vessel inflammation. They also showed significant drops in cholesterol and weight as well.
Lingonberries
Lingonberries are rich in antioxidants. Their high level of plant polyphenols fights inflammation in the body. They have a number of other beneficial naturally occurring compounds. If you can’t find lingonberries or acquired a taste for them, a good alternative is cranberries. The flavonoids in cranberries give them their very high antioxidant activity, boosting their cardioprotection.
Cocoa
Cocoa powder can be good for you. The antioxidants in cocoa are good for you. The natural stimulants in cocoa enhance concentration, while cocoa is well known for its ability to improve mood. Just don’t use this as an excuse to eat too much chocolate loaded down with sugar.
Noni Fruit
The Noni is an evergreen tree found in the Pacific Rim. Historically, it was used to make clothing and for medicinal purposes. The noni fruit is rich in potassium and antioxidants. However, noni has a number of other advantages. It reduces inflammation in the body and bad cholesterol levels. Noni facilitates the production of nitric oxide, which can help burn excess fat, regulate sleep patterns, improve lung function, and improve blood circulation among other things. If you have trouble finding noni fruit in the store or getting enough of it in your diet, supplements like Nitro FX contains a blend of concentrated noni fruit. If you want to learn more about it and its benefits, you can check it out at www.kyaniteamabundance.com.
Blueberries
Consumption of blueberries has been linked to a reduced risk of dementia. Their antioxidants and other ingredients may also help the body ward off cancer. They have been proven to improve memory and overall brain health. They aren’t nearly as expensive as acai berries or goji berries and they taste much better than cranberries. If you want to increase your intake, simply add them to muffins, ice cream or pancakes.
Bananas
If you want something that will fill you as well as give you some of that good glucose you need to fire up your neurons, look no further than the banana. Bananas are rich in potassium, which can have a lowering effect on blood pressure. They are also full of resistant starch, which is a healthy carb that will keep you satiated for long periods of time while boosting your metabolism.
Kiwi
The kiwifruit is a natural digestive aid. Eating this fruit is a natural way to find relief from irritable bowel syndrome. Kiwifruit contains actindain, a substance that helps the body break down protein faster and more effectively than normal. You can eat kiwi raw, mix it in with smoothies, or throw pieces into desserts like yogurt. And don’t forget to add some to your fruit salads.
Beetroot
Beetroot is a natural detoxifier. On top of that, it contains a large number of multiple nutrients. Beetroot juice stimulates the growth of red blood cells and improves overall blood circulation.
Lemons
Lemons are a natural source of vitamin C, which acts as a powerful antioxidant. Since vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient, your body can’t store it up for future use, so you need to consume significant amounts of it each day. Lemon has also been shown to improve skin quality, prevent kidney stones, and aid digestion among other things.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupes are also your friend if you want supple and healthy-looking skin. The skin health benefits of cantaloupe can be attributed to its rich vitamin A content, which also gives it exfoliant qualities by boosting cell reproduction.
Grapes
Very few people think of grapes when talking about superfruits, but they do have some essential nutrients that can very beneficial. One of these nutrients is resveratrol, an antioxidant which promotes better heart health. And an extract found in grape seeds has also been shown to slow down the progression of Alzheimer in mice, which could be promising for the future.
Watermelon
Watermelon contains the same lycopene, a carotenoid pigment, as tomatoes. It tastes good without you adding any extra sugar. And the juicy fruit is refreshing. You can throw watermelon chunks along with other berries on this list into the blender to make superfruit smoothies.
Avocado
Avocados are also a great source of nutrients and are packed with essential fatty acids and monounsaturated fats. Avocados have been shown to significantly reduce LDL levels and increase the amount of good cholesterol in your system. The good fats that are found in avocados also help with the absorption of other nutrients as well, like lycopene and beta-carotene, for instance, which are both essential for cardiovascular health.
Conclusion
Superfruits range from exotic foreign fruits locals have known about for years to familiar fruits the average person didn’t know could be this good for them. Try to integrate as much of these superfruits into your daily routine if you want to really enjoy their benefits.
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