According to a news article I read recently superfoods are trending down. Not all superfoods, just the ones that have been the media darlings, acai, goji berries and the like. I actually like this trend because as I wrote previously (back in 2008 I might add) we don't need to import superfoods. We would do better to utilize those that are readily available. It's more sustainable, eco-friendly, and also easier on your wallet.
So what are these superfoods that we should be more aware of (and eat more often)?
Berries- with lots of fiber and antioxidants they're great and easy to add to the diet in cereal, yogurt, salads, plain, anytime.
Eggs - high in protein (1 egg provides 6 g) with lutein and zeaxanthin (good for your eyes) they're versatile and satisfying.
Nuts - raw, unsalted are the best. Providing monosaturated fats they are a great heart-healthy choice. Add them to foods such as cereals or baked good or take some along for a healthy nutrition boosting snack.
Broccoli - yes, it is a super food. With an amazing nutritional punch it provides not only fiber and a wide range of vitamins, but it also has sulforaphane which is a potent cancer fighting detoxifier.
Beans - with a hefty dose of fiber and iron beans are just an all around good for you food. Soups, stews, and dips are a great way to add them to your meals.
Beta-carotenes - okay so this isn't a food but rather a group of foods. Found in orange foods (think sweet potatoes, winter squashes, carrots, etc) and dark leafy greens (the chlorophyll hides the color) like kale, spinach, collards and more betacarotene is a powerful antioxidant that support immune system health, reproductive health, and it's very good for your eyes.
So while imported superfoods may be trending down I'm rooting for an overall upward trend in the concept of super foods.