Are there superfoods for weight loss and energy? The experts weigh in.
Superfoods are supposed to be good for you. That depends on who you ask and what superfood they're talking about. Dozens of different foods, spices, and even whole diets have been pegged as "super" in recent years. But which ones give your body more nutrition than other ordinary foods?
Superfood is a catch-all phrase used to describe any food that is exceptionally high in some beneficial compound. These types of food can have a positive impact on your health if you eat them frequently enough. However, not all superfoods are created equal.
Some are better than others at boosting your metabolism or helping you lose weight. With so many different types of superfoods, it can take time to figure out which ones might be best for your needs. Keep reading for details about some of the most popular options and how they can help improve your diet.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a root that's used in a lot of different Asian dishes. It has a vibrant yellow color and a bitter, savory flavor. It's also incredibly healthy and packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
These compounds help protect your body from a variety of different diseases. Turmeric is also believed to affect your metabolism positively. It contains something called curcumin.
This chemical increases the rate at which your body breaks down fat. Some studies have found that taking curcumin supplements can help people lose up to five times more fat than those who don't. Eating turmeric might not have the same effect, but it's still a superfood that can benefit weight loss.
Oranges
One of the most consumed fruits worldwide is the orange. They're used in everything from drinks to desserts and salads. Oranges are also incredibly healthy. They're high in fiber and vitamin C, essential for keeping your immune system healthy.
Oranges are also great for aiding weight loss. They contain a lot of pectins, a type of fiber that can help you feel fuller for longer. Because pectin fills you up, eating oranges with other foods is recommended to maximize their effects.
They can also help lower your cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Oranges are known for being high in vitamin C, which has been shown to increase the number of calories you burn daily.
Berries
Strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries are some of the most popular superfoods. And they're easy to find at farmers' markets, grocery stores, and even some convenience stores.
They're packed full of antioxidants to help prevent cancer and other diseases. They're also good for your brain and can help improve your memory.
Berries are low in calories and fiber, making them perfect for weight loss. They're also loaded with vitamins and minerals, which give your body the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
These juicy fruits are good for more than just weight loss. They can also help lower your cholesterol and blood sugar, making them a superfood for overall health.
Beans and legumes
Beans and legumes are packed full of protein and vitamins. They're recommended for vegetarian diets or as part of a healthy weight loss diet. They're full of fiber and other nutrients that can help you feel fuller for longer.
Some research has even found that eating beans can reduce your risk of heart disease. That's because they're high in antioxidants that can prevent and reverse heart disease by getting rid of bad cholesterol.
Beans and legumes are also good for your digestive health. They can help improve your gut bacteria, which is essential for a healthy metabolism.
Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is a superfood in more ways than one. It contains minerals and vitamins to help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. It's also high in fiber and can help you lose weight.
Dark chocolate is so good for you because it contains a lot of cocoa. This is the main ingredient in many energy and sports drinks. It has caffeine, which can help boost metabolism and increase energy levels.
Most dark chocolate has a high amount of sugar, so it's recommended that you eat it in moderation. But it's still a superfood that can help improve your diet.
Oats and grains
Oats and grains like quinoa are some of the oldest superfoods out there. They're commonly eaten in different parts of the world, especially in the United Kingdom and Asia. They're packed full of fiber and have vitamins and minerals that can improve your health.
Oats and grains are also suitable for weight loss. They include a lot of fiber and a few calories, which might make you feel satiated for longer. Oats and grains are also recommended for people looking to improve their health. They can help lower your cholesterol and blood sugar, preventing many diseases.
Conclusion
Superfoods are believed to be good for your health, but not all are created equal. Some are better than others at boosting your metabolism or helping you lose weight.
With so many different types of superfoods, it can take time to figure out which ones might be best for your needs. However, there are plenty of options to choose from.
We've covered turmeric, oranges, berries, beans and legumes, dark chocolate, oats, and grains. No matter your diet, there's a superfood that can help improve it.