Superfoods

Super foods yes but...

​Super foods are natural foods that stand out in terms of nutrition. However, there is no official definition. They generally contain a very high amount of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fibre and other nutrients.
Their regular intake can complement a healthy diet, but they should not be confused with "miraculous" foods. Superfoods often possess a wealth of nutrients but they are only "super" when combined with other foods, as they cannot help maintain a balanced diet on their own. They will allow you to meet some of your nutritional needs.  Generally no negative health effects  are reported with their consumption if they are part of a balanced diet.
It is necessary to vary the nutritional pleasures we consume. 

What are they?

​The list is extensive. However, we can divide them into several categories:

• Super green foods: green vegetables that contain a high concentration of proteins, vitamins, minerals..... Among them wheat grass, barley grass, spirulina, kale cabbage.....
• Superfood fruits and nuts: they have healthy properties and help to fight bad bacteria. To name a few, goji berries, pomegranates, blueberries, nuts, cocoa, chia seeds....
• ​Herbs: we can mention herbs and plants that contain a large number of vitamins and have medicinal properties such as nettle, aloe vera, echinacea, ginger, turmeric
• The other great foods: Some come from the bee hive, pollen, honey and royal jelly, also many types of seaweed are also classified as super foods.​

​Real or supposed effects?

Their over-consumption can have an impact on health, but also on the environment (for example quinoa in Bolivia or avocado in Mexico)
Others must be consumed in very large quantities for their benefits to be effective.
Moreover, their price is sometimes exorbitant and their effectiveness is not always scientifically proven. 
Some have been tested and contain significant amounts of pesticides (which counterbalances their positive effects) so their origin has to be carefully looked at.

So, to take them or not?

​In terms of nutrition, the best prevention against fatigue, weak immune system and certain chronic diseases remains a sufficient, varied and balanced diet where the emphasis is on fruit, vegetables, lacto-fermented products, very fresh local products are also interesting, may be even more so than an exotic fruit that has travelled across the world.
That said, from time to time and if you feel the need (fatigue, overwork, stress...), you can  supplement with superfoods to feel recharged.