Make this decade, your healthiest one yet. Here are our top five superfoods to see in the new decade.
Matcha Tea
For Centuries now, Matcha tea has been an integral part of traditional tea ceremonies. It is considered a very special type of green tea, its unique growing and harvesting techniques giving way to a vibrant green tea leaf that is rich in antioxidants. Unlike green tea, the matcha leaf is finely processed down to a fine powder, where is then whisked with hot water until frothy.
Packed full of nutrients
By drinking the whole tea leaf, you ingest a potent amount of nutrients. Matcha contains some the highest amounts of antioxidants than any other superfoods this is why it makes our lift of the top 5 superfoods of 2020
Catechins are a special form of antioxidants that Matcha is rich in. The Catechin EGCg is continually being studied for its cancer-fighting properties at every turn researchers find more to love about Matcha tea.
L-Theanine is an amino acid that is also abundant in Matcha powder. This element promotes an overall feeling of relaxation and wellbeing, assisting people who suffer from anxiety and stress.
Learn more: How Matcha Helps with Anxiety
Tumeric
Tumeric powder is easily distinguishable thanks to its vibrant yellow color, and aromatic scents of ginger and orange. In recent years this spice has been hailed as a superfood, so much so it is not uncommon to see Turmeric pills, turmeric lattes and turmeric desserts for sale - all boasting its superfood quality.
For centuries, Turmeric has been used in Asian dishes, adding a depth of flavour, aroma and vibrant colour. In Indian cultures, Turmeric is also used for healing wounds and treating upset stomachs, And yet, it wasn't until a 2006 study that the western world became aware of the possible health benefits.
What makes Tumeric a Superfood?
Curcumin is an active compound in Tumeric and is shown to be a very powerful anti-inflammatory agent. By reducing inflammation in your body you can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's, heart disease, arthritis and even cholesterol.
Further studies are also showing that Turmeric can also aid in boosting brain performance. It is thought that the curcumin may act in improving blood flow to the brain, assisting to improve cognitive function and mood.
How to eat Tumeric
Tumeric can be enjoyed in most curries or Indian dishes. As it does not last long in your body it is recommended to have two doses per day. Many people choose to enjoy Tumeric as a dish, as a Tumeric 'shot' or latte or in pill form.
Fermented Foods
The process of fermenting foods is where microorganisms break down sugar and glucose into other products. This preserves the food and removes toxins from the ingredients. The microbes also have an added benefit on your gut health
The most common fermented foods include yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha. In western culture, While yoghurt has long been the most popular fermented food, prized mostly for its dessert-like flavour. It is only in recent times that its health benefits have been marketed to the public.
Why are Fermented Foods A Superfood?
Research on gut health has taught us that our gut is more than a digestion tube. Studies have opened our eyes to our body's complexity and inter-connectivity and just how vital a balanced diet is to the health of our body and our mind.
Your gut is full of bacteria, both good and bad. In fact, you have between 200-500 different types of bacteria living inside your gastrointestinal tract. The bacteria mix you have can potentially have a great impact on your overall health, immune system and wellbeing.
All fermented foods contain a powder keg of beneficial bacteria. By consuming a range of fermented foods you will be helping your body to keep the bad bacteria at bay and help to reduce inflammation, heart disease and even make you happier.
Sardines for protein
For years you may have heard that you really should be eating more fish every week. Not some times, not some weeks - but every single week. Now, nutritionists are really spruiking the benefits of protein-rich sardines in your diet. Not only are they convenient, available in cans packaged in a variety of flavors they also packed full of nutrients.
Unlike many large fish, sardines contain far less mercury and yet still has just as much omega-3 fatty acids as salmon.
Sardines are an oily fish
Oily fish pack a punch on your plate, providing an array of preventative health benefits. Sardines, in particular, are full of beneficial EPA and DHA fats, these aid in reducing inflammation and decreasing risk of heart disease.
A can of sardines can provide you with a third of the recommended amount of calcium, along with being a good source of Vitamin D helping to support your bone density.
Pulses, a plant-based superstar
Long gone are the days where lentils, chickpeas are the tasteless substitute for meat. Today, regardless of your food preference pulses are coming to for the forefront as a nutritious and appetizing substitute for any meat in any meal.
Pulses include lentils, peas, chickpeas and beans and offer a remarkable array of nutritional benefits. Not only do they contain protein, but they also offer fibre, carbohydrates along with vitamins and minerals. Studies continue to show that their consumption keeps you fuller for longer while also improving your overall gut health
Cheap and Healthy
Beans and lentils are staple ingredients in diets around the world. From the humble hummus to tasty lentil curries. Compared to red meat, lentils are cheaper to purchase and are a sustainable food source, requiring minimal water and only enriching the soil where they are planted rather than depleting it.