If I told you about foods that not only pack a nutritional punch, but also offer as few calories as possible, would you feel excited to try them?
Yes, we’re talking about superfoods.
There is no medical definition of a ‘superfood’. But that doesn’t stop them from being nutritional powerhouses of some vital nutrients that are essential for thriving health.
Superfoods are great in that they not only contain high quantities of vitamins and minerals but also provide massive amounts of antioxidants, phytochemicals, healthy fats and fibers.
Consequently, these help the body combat diseases by supporting its natural immune response and improving overall health. They also aid weight loss, promote heart health, boost energy levels and may even defeat signs of ageing.
The good news is that the majority of these superfoods come from plants.
Keeping in line with that, we’re Including 6 plant-based superfoods below.
Whether you want to give your immune system the boost it needs or desire to achieve an overall better health, these superfoods will definitely help you get there.
Turmeric is that popular-kid-on-the-block when it comes to superfoods-Think turmeric lattes that have become all the rage in the recent past.
This stellar superfood contains bioactive compounds that have strong medicinal properties.
Turmeric is also notorious for its anti-inflammatory strengths.
The main active ingredient in turmeric, called curcumin, is highly anti-inflammatory. It has been known to fight inflammation at the molecular level and also acts as an antiviral.
Garlic is an all-rounder superfood. It is chock-full of some essential vitamins such as vitamin B6 and vitamin C as well as manganese, selenium, calcium, fibre, copper, potassium and iron.
Garlic is great at fighting infections thereby preventing colds, flu and other everyday illnesses.
The main active ingredient in garlic called allicin contains sulfur that not only gives garlic its unique taste and smell but is also responsible for its immunity-boosting properties.
Allicin increases the resilience of some types of white blood cells to help fight against viruses, bacteria and other pathogens.
Elderberry is an antioxidant-rich fruit that has been used since ages for its benefits against cold and flu.
A combination of immunity-boosting antioxidants like flavonoids and anthocyanins as well as Vitamin A, B and C make these dark purple berries an excellent choice for strengthening the immune system.
Elderberries also reduce inflammation, which may decrease the risk of some chronic illnesses such as heart diseases and cancers.
Ginger has been used as an old-time home remedy against seasonal ailments like cold and flu as well as nausea, sore muscles and even indigestion.
It contains some of the most potent anti-inflammatory substances and is a great antibiotic, antiseptic and antiviral.
The main active ingredient in ginger, called 'Gingerol', makes it a perfect immunity booster.
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of gingerol help strengthen the body's natural immune response by fighting inflammation.
Additionally, containing more than 60 trace minerals, ginger also helps fight stress, tension headaches and reduces blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
As the name suggests, rosehip comes from the rose plant and is most commonly consumed in the form of rosehip tea.
Rosehip contains a high amount of antioxidants, polyphenols as well as vitamins A, C and E.
It's exceptionally high content of vitamin C makes it a great immunity booster. Vitamin C helps enhance the function and production of lymphocytes, the white blood cells that fight infections.
It also helps maintain the skin's protective barrier, one of our main defences against pathogens.
Additionally, vitamins A, E and polyphenols also help strengthen and protect the immune system so it can fight against bacteria and viruses.
American coneflower, purple coneflower or Echinacea, however you call it, has been traditionally used by both Americans and Europeans for its effectiveness against a variety of ailments.
These not only included fighting off the common cold and flu but also snake bites, burns and some minor wounds.
Echinacea is a great immunity-booster owing to some natural plant compounds known as polysaccharides and alkamides.
It stimulates the immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties, hence its high effectiveness against cold symptoms.
Knowing about these great superfoods and their health benefits for your immune system, you may find yourself wanting to include all of them in your diet.
But quite frankly, that’s not always possible.
Which is why Sash Vitality has expertly formulated its Immunity Complex Capsules for you.
These vegan capsules contain 100% natural ingredients to help boost your immune system.
Including the ones mentioned above. And many more.
With only 2 capsules a day (or as directed by your GP), you can get yourself topped up in the immune department.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
