The talk in towns, homes, hospitals and even social media is how to live healthy and keep fit. This trend has led to people concentrating on what they eat. Many theories and myths have developed on what kind of food one should take. Superfood? This is one of the foods that people talk about, but do they really know what it is? Superfoods are a type of foods that are found naturally. These foods are very good sources of antioxidants; essential nutrients that our bodies require.A survey by whole Foods market LP (3) clearly points out the statistics of people who used such Superfoods. It categorically claims that only 32.6% of American adults eat fruits two or more times a day. In addition, it also highlights that only 27.2% eat vegetables more than three times a day. This makes the author wonder why people avoid taking such foods. Several assumptions have come up, which are such as ignorance on their existing or unavailability. This clearly points out that Superfoodshave not been widely consumed by the public. It also gives an understanding that people are not yet familiar with this type of foods.
These foods are not manufactured in any food company but are indigenous. Do you believe that super foods are advantageousto your body? Well this argumentative essay will point out clearly the benefits of Superfoods. Many people keep searching for foods that fight against aging and diseases, aid the immune system and help in the reduction of cholesterol in our bodies. Such benefits would be derived from Superfoods such such as salmon, sweet potatoes, avocados, pumpkin seeds and blueberries.
The image below represents some of superfoods by Amanda.
Superfoods are meant for all people. This is to counter the notion by some people who believe that Superfoods are associated with a certain group of people. Others tend to believe that such foods are for the people who cannot afford to buy manufactured food. Evaluation of why elderly people had a higher life cycle than the current generation would give a clear picture. This is because the elderly people never used manufactured food, but the indigenous food. Their bodies were thus in a position to fight diseases and lived longer than the current generation. Superfoods are not for any specific group of individuals. People should,therefore, fight this myth as it deprives them of the ability to use and acquire the benefits associated with the Superfoods.
Superfoods are the most nutritious foods in the world identified by nutritionists. They have unique features that make them to be the most recommended by dietitians. They are a foundation for creating an ongoing vitality and longevity in one's life. They do this because of their quality sources of antioxidants and their nutritional value.
According to , thSuperfoodsfferent types of Superfoods. They can be classified into different categories Beans are one of these foods. Beans are rich in fiber. They are also a rich sources of potassium and magnesium. Dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and collards are super healthy as well. The body requires vitamin c, citrus fruits such as oranges, limes, grapes and lemon are a rich sources of these vitamins. Sweet potatoes are rich in carbohydrates. They are also rich in vitamin A and fiber. These components are very essential in the body development.
Berries are one of the Superfoods that people should consider including in the diet. Examples of such are the strawberries and blueberries. They are good sources of vitamins, antioxidants and fiber. Minerals such as iron and vitamins E and C can be well supplied with tomatoes. Whole grains contain nutrients that are required for body growth anddevelopment. These grains are rich in magnesium, omega 3 fatty acids, foliate and chromium. Potassium and fiber can be gotten from oatmeal and pearled barley. According to , nuts are good sources of healthy fats. They can also be used in hunger management. Nuts also provide fiber and magnesium . Some of these nuts such as flaxseeds and walnuts are rich in omega 3 fatty acids.
There exists Superfoods that are rich sources of vitaminsand minerals, which are essential building blocks in our bodies. They are rich in calcium, iron , magnesium, vitamin c and many other useful nutrients. According to Mason , these foods are on the rise. He gives goji berry as an example which stimulates the human growth hormone. There is a deficiency of these foods. The reason being poor farming practices that havelead to a decline in their supply. The western culture has greatly contributed to this, whereby people nowadays prefer readily available processed and fast foods.
Superfoods are beneficial to our body development. They build bones, improve eyesight, prevent our bodies from chronic diseases and alsohelp in body weight loss. Toxicity and deficiency diseases have a greater impact in our societies today. The two lead to many disorders that affect our bodies. A deficiency of these Superfoods can lead to conditions such as diabetes. The effects of diabetes can be reduced by incorporating these foods into the diet . Prunes, which is one of the Superfoods is loaded with polyphonies that helps to boost the density of bones. This is possible for the plant chemical stimulates cells that build bones. Nutritionists say that these foods can help improve memory and coordination of the body. Brussels sprouts combat cancer causing cells and they help in body detoxification.
Heart diseases and loss of memory are some the complications that develop, but can be solved through consumption of omega 3 rich fish. Cold blooded fish such as salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel are rich in omega 3. Omega 3 is also found in fortified eggs, walnuts andflax seeds.These foods are rich in healthy saturated fats that reduce the amount of cholesterol.. Some of these foods can as well boost libido. Many couples have this problem,whereby one partner or even both have low libido. Experts have come to their rescue by recommending Superfoods to boost their stamina. They also provide energy and increase sexual performance. Superfoods also improve fertility for both women and men. The foods can serve as a good substitute for viagra, which hashad its bad debate by bringing more harm than good. These foods also relieve the symptoms of menopause in a short time considering other methods that are used. Additionally, Superfoods are known to be immune boosters, preventing the body from unnecessary infections.
Of concern is how Super foods such as sweet potatoes can survive in harsh conditions. Arid and semi arid areas can utilize this feature to curb hunger. These foods are viable sources of carbohydrates, a supplement of maize. Hunger management is one of the major problems in most parts of the world. Parts of Africa and other areas in the world where rains are limited can use this crop to manage the effects of famine.
Golden berries are good examples of superfood that grow on the mountains. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, specifically in vitamin c, vitamin A, iron, phosphorous and niacin. They contain pectin that helps in digestion. It also lowers the level of cholesterol in the body. People in Peru with diabetes use these berries to control levels of blood glucose. These typesof berries are packedwith vitamin P, the vitamins are anti-sclerotic, anti- inflammatory, anti-histamine, anti-viral, anti-carcinogenic and anti-oxidants. They are also a good source of proteins.
Oxidative stress is a medical condition that can lead to an enormous damage to the body. Damage of the DNA, accelerated aging, mutation of cells among others are some the conditions that can be as a result of oxidative stress. Antioxidant properties that are exhibited by most of the Superfoods are a good cure for all these problems. Antioxidants also protect the body from wear and tear. Fruits such as acai juice contain a larger component of antioxidants. Apple fruits also have the antioxidant properties that can be used to reduce the risk of lung infections (Brown 32).
Digestion problems are a havoc in many people, constipation being one of these problems. The problem is caused by lack of fiber. This digestive component can be supplied by increasing the consumption of Superfoods.Being a leading source of fiber, Superfoods aid in reduction of constipation as they contain fiber that is necessary for digestion.
The society has different opinions about the intake of super foods. To find out the public opinion on the issue, three people were interviewed about super foods,UNA student, respondent 1, a nutritionist, respondent 2 and a grocery seller respondent 3. In the interview, they were asked what their opinion was regarding the eating of supper foods and what made these foods to be eaten or not. Below is a summary of their responses. Respondent 1, agreed that super foods are important for human health detailing the benefits that are associated with them. She mentioned the reported importance of these foods in boosting the immune system and helping cure some diseases and conditions like cancer and diabetes. However, she said that the level of their intake is not as high as expected due to their prices and availability. She went on to say that, some of these foods are not available in the country and imported goods are expensive and may not be fresh. Respondent 3, owner of a grocery store; her response was quite realistic as she gave me the real picture of the super food intake in town. First, she agreed with the associated benefits they have onthe human body. Secondly, she explained that even though they are good for all, they are limited in the market and therefore affordable by the wealthy in the society. Respondent 2, a nutritionist, gave a detailed account of the importance of super foods. In addition, she gave an overview of who should take what and the recommended quantity. Notably was her advice on nut intake for children and pregnant women where she emphasized that nut intake should be low. On the importance, she added that some Chinese food could be used as medicine to boost the immune system, cure diabetes and lower high blood pressure. She also mentioned a red fruit from the Himalayas that has anti-aging abilities and sunflower seeds could remove toxins from the liver among others.
Although these Superfoods are very important in our lives, they face a considerable number of limitations. They are scarce in the market. Most of the farming practices have led to this shortage, with farmers embracing the first growing crops, forgetting the indigenous ones. A low demand for such products in the market has forced farmers to plant other different types of crops. Why would one plant crops that are not demanded in the market? Conventionally, farmers opt for alternative crops that they believe will sell fast. This scenario makes such crops continue diminishing in the farms. Change in technology has also led to many changing to cultured crops. These crops grow faster and their yields are high compared to indigenous ones. Indigenous crops take a longer duration of time to reach maturity. Therefore a farmer would prefer to plant crops that have a shorter maturity period.
Superfoods are also very expensive, due to their higher value, demand has increased making the sellers to hike the prices; some farmers who cultivate such crops have realized how such crops are demanded in the market. This practice makes the financially challenged people less likely to consume them. This is because they maynot afford such commodities. points out that most people prefer fast foods and the GMO ones since they are cheap. Availability is also another hindrance. They are not found in most countries. Western cultures which have embraced technology seem to have forgotten about the existence of these foods. Imported ones lack the freshness and their prices are extremely high. These hindrances have made it difficult for people to include Superfoods in their budget. Although, they arenutritionally recommended, most people take a shorter route to using food supplements which are abit cheaper and readily available in the market. Most current generation farmers have insufficient knowledge of the cultivation of these crops. This makes them not plant them even if they wanted.
Superfoods play a significant role in our bodies. People should stop believing some of the misleading myths on such foods. They should change their opinions that hinder their preference to super foods. Aggressive agricultural practices that embrace planting such Superfoods should be reinforced. This is because these foods are diminishing as farmers have shifted from planting them. Conventionally, this will see these foods become available in the market. Moreover, people would be able to use them because such plants are not available to purchase. Superfoods offer significant benefits to the people. Medical practitioners should conduct aggressive campaigns and educate the public on the benefits that are derived from the foods. This move will not only work in favor of farmers, rather, the society at large..
Most people prefer manufactured food to indigenous food. However, they forget that the indigenous foods lack the chemical components that are added to act as food preservatives in almost all manufactured food. The chemical components have side effects such as causing body complications, with a perfect example of cancer. It is evident that Superfoods have nutritional values in bodies. On that note, people should be advised to take such foods .Besides, manufactured foods are a leading cause of body illnesses.
The indigenous foods should be made available for people to use them. People should be educated on the benefits of such foods. Farmers should be encouraged to plant the foods. This practice will see the products increase in the market. A likely boost to farmers would be their new source of income. This is because when people understand the value of such crops they will purchase them. Certain diseases which people acquire as a result of using the manufactured products such as cancer would reduce drastically. When people consume the indigenous foods that are only planted and cultivated using organic manure, cases of other related diseases would reduce. Today the fight against cancer is a global problem. If people take the Superfoods as advised by medical practitioners, then such global issues would be no more.
Works Cited
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