These days, we have an entry of a superfood every now and then. However, the options may appear limited to those who have taken the vegan route. Veganism is on the rise, thanks to the advocacy of many top celebrities and a common acknowledgement of its benefits for consumers and planet earth's health. Not to forget the cruelty-free food choices. One legit concern is how to meet nutritional needs while avoiding animal products. Here is a rundown of five vegan superfoods that really should be A-listers. By regularly including them in your diet, you can reduce the chances of being overweight, diabetic, or developing heart disease.
Pomegranate
This bright crimson berry packs a nutritional punch. Pomegranate's punicalagin content makes it an anti-cancer powerhouse, and pomegranate juice has more antioxidants than red wine, cranberry juice, green tea, grape juice, or acai juice. The antioxidant properties offer defence against cardiovascular disease, cancer, and dementia—this aids in maintaining collagen and the skin's general health.
Quinoa
Quinoa salad, Image Source: Pexels
One of the few plant-based sources of "complete protein," quinoa has been farmed in the Andes Mountains for approximately 5,000 years. Bolivians refer to this gluten-free, vegan "pseudo-cereal" as the "mother grain" due to its abundance of iron, calcium, fibre, magnesium, copper, and manganese. A lower incidence of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity is associated with a diet high in whole grains like quinoa. It's versatile, tasty, and quick to prepare, making it perfect for salads and morning dishes like poha.
Cacao nibs
Much while a square of dark chocolate is considered by many to be the healthiest dessert option, there is something else related to chocolate that is even better for you. The cacao tree's fruit and bean give chocolate its distinctive flavour. Cacao nibs, approximately a third of the size of a raisin, aren't highly flavorful on their own, but they add a lot of health benefits when mixed with things like smoothies, cereal, or shakes. This South American cuisine's antioxidants, fibre, iron, and magnesium are exceptionally high.
Sweet potato
Baked sweet potato, Image Source: Pexels
The ubiquitous potato has been overshadowed by its sweet-tasting relative. To begin with, it's rich in vitamin B6, which lowers homocysteine levels, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, bone fractures (including hip and other bone fractures), rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and other severe, long-term conditions. Beta carotene, potassium, magnesium, vitamins C and D, and magnesium are only some of the nutrients found in these tubers. Over 400% of your daily value for vitamin A can be found in just one average-sized potato. In addition to being a rich source of iron, they are suitable for vegans. They have a low glycemic index and could benefit those with diabetes. You can also reduce hypertension and cancer risk by eating these foods. Fibre helps keep your digestive system working correctly.
Goji berries
A wide range of A-listers, from Madonna to Miranda Kerr, attest to the health advantages of this Chinese fruit. These berries, which are very high in antioxidants and vitamin A, improve the immune system, increase brain activity, defend against cardiovascular disease and cancer, and lengthen one's life. According to several types of research, goji berries can also help prevent Alzheimer's disease. You may get them dried in speciality shops and health food stores.
Final words:
Vegan diets are the healthiest since they contain no animal products, added sugars, or salt. People who follow a vegan diet are typically very aware of how much protein they consume to stay caught up. That they help you shed pounds is another reason for their rising popularity. Now is the time to put these vegan superfoods to the test.
