Superfoods are a category of foods that are nutritionally dense, containing lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are good for ones health. However, the term "superfood" is not scientifically recognized, and there are no specific criteria a food must meet to be considered one. The title is typically reserved for natural foods that are especially nutrient-dense while generally being low in calories. Superfoods are not a cure-all food, and including them as part of daily nutritional intake is great but only when consuming a healthy, balanced diet overall. Some examples of superfoods include:
- Avocado
- Berries
- Beets
- Chia seeds
- Cinnamon
- Dark, leafy greens
- Garlic
Each superfood has different nutritional properties, but overall, they are associated with heart health, a strong immune system, cancer prevention, reduced inflammation, and lower cholesterol. Superfoods are often nutritious, but the term is more useful for driving sales than it is for scientific purposes.