What Makes Superfoods So Super

The nutrient-dense products you need in your diet. 

by SOPHIA RIZZUTO ★ OCTOBER 22, 2019

Superfoods are the talk of the town in the health and nutrition world. You may have heard about them but still have no idea what exactly they are––do these foods have superpowers or something? Well, buckle your seatbelts because here’s the 411 on superfoods: what they are, what they can do for you and how you can incorporate them into your diet. 

The Avengers’ Competition:

In simple terms, superfoods have nutrient-rich qualities that can promote incredible health benefits. Every superfood has its own vitamin, mineral and nutrient mix that makes it a great addition to your plate.

The catchy name “superfood” is essentially a marketing term that highlights how promising it can be to incorporate them into your diet on a regular basis. And don’t worry –– they’re super easy to work into a college lifestyle. Here are a few examples of superfoods and some great recipes to try! 

Kale Yeah!

Classified as a DGLV (dark green leafy vegetable), this superfood is loaded with folate (aids in cell reproduction), zinc (boosts immune functions), iron (transports oxygen to the blood), calcium and magnesium (keep bones strong), and fiber (helps to regulate GI activity) ––all minerals that are great for your health.

Another reason why Kale and other DGLV’s are so super is because they have the ability to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Its naturally bitter taste may scare some away, but being creative in the kitchen can help mask that bitterness and leave you with a delicious meal.

If you don’t think kale will end up being your salad green of choice, try it in a soup or smoothie (don’t worry, you won’t be able to taste it!)

Credit: Society6

(Blue)berry Good For You:

Among many other berries, blueberries are a great source of antioxidants. You may hear this word thrown around a lot, but essentially antioxidants are natural compounds that can prevent or delay some types of cell damage.  Basically, they’re GREAT for you! Blueberries are also a great source of fiber and are associated with reduced risk of certain inflammatory conditions.

Blueberries are also super versatile in their culinary applications. One of the most delicious ways to incorporate them into your diet are with these blueberry muffins. Word of advice: just try not to turn into one like Little Miss Violet did in Willy Wonka.

Credit: Greens & Chocolate

Spill the Green Tea:

Yeah girl, that venti iced green tea is doing good things for you. Green tea is loaded with medicinal properties, including a type of antioxidant called polyphenol that has strong anti-inflammatory effects - like reducing that pesky puffiness after a night out.

Green tea is also naturally caffeinated, so it’s a great alternative for that midday pick-me-up. So yes, it’s just fine to have one a day from Starbucks (as long as you don’t overdo it on the sugar). Sip on some green tea as you chat with your girls over the tea of the day.

Credit: Science of Skin

Oh (Ginger) Snap:

This plant delivers a double-whammy as a flavor enhancer and a superfood. It’s probably most popularly known for its ability to ease nausea or an upset stomach, but it’s also useful in reducing pain from inflammatory diseases and contains some of those powerful antioxidants we mentioned. Ginger is often used to add flavor punch in Asian-inspired recipes like this veggie packed stir-fry. 

Credit: Epicurious

Avo Good Day:

Oh yes, it’s the good kind of fat. While its claim to fame might feel overrated, it’s so true! Avocados are high in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) which lowers the body’s level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol), decreasing your risk of heart disease - keeping your heart healthy enough to power that mid-winter sprint down frat row.

Avocados are also a great source of fiber –– they have even more than bananas as a matter of fact. Have a legit Taco Tuesday with this traditional guacamole recipe, and you might just become the next guacamole vine sensation.

Credit: Crispers

Now that it’s understood what superfoods are and why they are so beneficial to our health, the next step is to incorporate them into your diet as much as possible! Time to get in the kitchen, put that apron on, test those recipes and reap the benefits of those tasty powerhouse foods.