Superfoods: Are expensive exotic foods worth it?
Superfoods are widespread these days and there seem to be more and more of them. However, the term is not clearly defined, but rather a marketing term. The Oxford English Dictionary describes superfood as "a nutrient-rich food that is considered particularly beneficial to health and well-being". In general, such foods are considered "super" if they have a high nutrient density and are therefore particularly beneficial to health.
The list of superfoods mainly includes various exotic fruits, berries and seeds, especially those from overseas such as açaí berries, goji berries, quinoa and chia seeds. However, there are also foods that have been known for a long time but are only now gaining their health benefits, such as cocoa. These exotic superfoods are conquering the health market. However, they are not only more expensive than domestic superfoods due to the long transportation routes, but their freshness also suffers as a result. Fortunately, however, there are local alternatives to these exotic foods.
One Alternative to chia seeds are linseeds, for example. They are a valuable source of omega-3, omega-6, calcium and iron. Flaxseeds even have a slightly higher content of omega-3 fatty acids compared to chia seeds and similar fiber values. They are also a good source of minerals, calcium, zinc, iron and antioxidants.
As Alternative to goji berries you can fall back on blackcurrants. This regional superfood option is rich in nutrients, especially vitamin C, as well as vitamins A, B, E, K and P (OPC). They also contain calcium, iron and antioxidants. Sea buckthorn and rosehip are other alternatives with a high vitamin C content.
Millet is a Alternative to quinoa. It is also gluten-free and contains similar nutrients to quinoa, in particular a high protein content. Millet also contains silicon, vitamins A and E and various B vitamins.
For those from Brazil Açaí berries blueberries or bilberries offer a local alternative. These blue fruits are rich in healthy vitamins, antioxidants and minerals, including folic acid and manganese.
Conclusion:
There are healthy alternatives to exotic superfoods that grow in our own garden or in the neighboring field. The advantage is that they don't have to travel long distances and are therefore fresher. With regional superfoods such as blueberries or linseed, however, you should make sure that you buy them seasonally and in organic quality.
Other superfoods include field mustard, nettle, lamb's lettuce, kale, blueberries, raspberries, currants, linseed, horseradish, parsnips, purslane, radicchio and sunflower seeds.
