Jakarta –
Recently, many foods have been labeled superfoods because their health benefits are so superior. However, the health claims of some superfoods are considered excessive, aka ‘overrated’.
Mentioning ‘superfood’ or ‘super food’ certainly comes to mind in the form of healthy food ingredients with a multitude of nutrients and benefits. The popularity of superfoods has recently skyrocketed to the point where it has pushed aside other food ingredients which are actually no less nutritious.
Many healthy living practitioners are willing to dig deeper into their pockets to get food labeled superfood. However, not all superfood health claims are considered commensurate. There are also drawbacks and side effects if you consume too much of this super healthy food.
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MUI Kitchen US (19/11/2024) revealed 7 superfoods whose health claims are considered exaggerated:
1. Kale
Since around 2017, kale has been widely praised as a superfood vegetable. In fact, this green vegetable has been around for a long time, it is said that it has even been around since the 17th century. Kale is high in vitamins and minerals.
But actually, kale is not the only vegetable with super benefits. Consuming spinach and broccoli, for example, is no less good because these green vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, K, and antioxidants. It is recommended to consume various types of green vegetables to get maximum nutrition.
2. Dark chocolate
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Dark chocolate is also considered a superfood with high antioxidant content. But that doesn’t mean that eating dark chocolate alone can make you completely healthy. Keep in mind, a person’s health depends on various factors, such as genetics, physical exercise, stress management, and of course a balanced nutritional diet.
Although the flavonols in dark chocolate can help improve certain aspects of health, they cannot replace poor nutritional intake or a sedentary lifestyle.
3. Goji berries
Goji berries grow widely in the highlands of China, near Mongolia and the Himalayas. This fruit has been consumed for thousands of years to treat various diseases. Goji berries are rich in antioxidants and minerals which make them have a multitude of benefits, such as anti-cancer, improving sexual function, boosting the immune system, and increasing longevity.
However, goji berries are not always truly healthy because this fruit is high in calories. Goji berries can also have bad effects if combined with several medications. The downside is that this fruit is rare and expensive. Even though there are many fruits out there that also have similar benefits.
4. Chia seeds
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Once very popular with healthy living practitioners, chia seeds are also classified as a superfood. Usually chia seeds are eaten for breakfast as a mainstay source of fiber, protein and omega 3 fatty acids. Regular consumption can help maintain blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol, and make you feel full longer.
But don’t consume too much chia seeds. Because it can trigger flatulence, gas and constipation due to its high fiber content. Eating chia seeds is also recommended along with adequate hydration.
More details are on the next page.
