The health and beauty of your skin, hair, and nails also depend on the foods you choose to put on your plate. A diet based on processed foods (high in saturated fat and sugar) will not provide essential nutrients and will be a source of inflammation for the skin. On the contrary, if you make sure to find a balance and add foods known to be “superfoods” to your plate, then your body and your skin will thank you!

But what exactly are superfoods? Superfoods have incredible health benefits. Thanks to their high nutritional value and detoxifying power, they are known to stimulate the immune system, reduce fatigue, prevent disease and improve the condition of the skin, nails, and hair. They are, in general, very rich in nutrients. Nutrients are antioxidants, minerals, fibers, vitamins, trace elements, vegetable proteins, or essential fatty acids.

So, we are going to talk to you a little bit more in detail about the different types of superfoods! That way, you won’t have an excuse the next time you go shopping!

Lemon

A major ingredient in detox drinks. If we put it at the top of the list, it’s for a specific reason! Lemon is the food to have in your kitchen at all times. Lemon is acidic. However, once assimilated by the body, it becomes alkaline and allows to regulate the pH in your body. It is antioxidant, tonic, antiseptic, healing, astringent, and degreasing, a real superfood for the body. Enriched with vitamin C, it will stimulate your immune system by giving you a good dose of energy and will be an excellent antiseptic/antiviral in case of need. Moreover, its detox action will also eliminate bad toxins, especially from the liver. Do not hesitate to prepare detox drinks with this superfood.

Lemon is a great ally for a radiant complexion but also to fight against free radicals responsible for skin aging.

Turmeric

Turmeric is commonly used in traditional Indian and Ayurvedic medicine as a detoxifying agent. It is the roots of this herbaceous plant that give turmeric powder. This natural supplement works wonders for our bodies. The carmine it contains is an active ingredient with anti-inflammatory properties. This “superfood” ingredient is rich in iron, zinc, manganese, and selenium as well as vitamins C, B6, and B3. A vitamin cocktail that stimulates the nervous system and has an anti-stress action.

Turmeric can also be used in powder or oil form to relieve acne, wounds, psoriasis, or fungi.

Spirulina

Spirulina has seen its popularity soar for some time. Its pretty blue-green color indeed makes it intriguing! This microalga is a super detoxifier that has exceptional levels of iron and protein. It also contains gamma-linolenic acid (an essential fatty acid found in breast milk). Its nutritional richness makes it a superfood that will prevent deficiencies and boost your immune system! It also stimulates your liver to de-clutter it!

Red fruits (blueberries, blackcurrants, goji berries…)

They are among the fruits that contain the most antioxidants: red fruits are “superfood” ingredients to be integrated into your diet. They help fight the bad effects of free radicals on your body. They are rich in essential fatty acids and fiber while being low in calories. A snack to devour without hesitation.

Flax and chia seeds

Flax seeds contain a very high level of nutrition. They are rich in omega-3 and fiber, which helps improve transit, fight against excess cholesterol and relieve symptoms related to menopause. Finally, thanks to its richness in omega-6 essential fatty acids, they improve the quality of the skin.

Chia seeds contain five times more calcium than milk, more iron than spinach, more potassium than bananas, and more vitamin C than oranges. It also contains zinc, vitamin B1, B2, and B3. Anti-inflammatory, the chia seed is a superb source of energy. Moreover, this “superfood” ingredient is also an antioxidant that helps slow down skin aging. So what are we waiting for?

Green tea (and matcha)

Consumed in Asia for thousands of years, green tea has powerful antioxidant benefits. Although it is not a detox food, it is a stimulator of the fat elimination metabolism. It is an excellent diuretic that promotes the proper functioning of the digestive system while reducing cholesterol levels. Finally, its high level of caffeine and vitamin C makes it a very good energizer! Toning and purifying, green tea is known for its mattifying action on the skin as well as for a deep cleansing that tightens the pores.

As for matcha, it is a variety of green tea consumed as a fine green powder obtained by crushing tea leaves between two stones. It is traditionally drunk whipped in water. With anti-aging and energizing effects, matcha tea powder is a healthy alternative for breakfast!

90% dark chocolate or cocoa

Let’s finish with a superfood for the foodies here! If you too can’t imagine a life without chocolate, it’s time to switch to a much healthier alternative. It’s the anti-depression treat since theobromine and magnesium present in dark chocolate are active ingredients that will regulate the nervous system. They increase the effects of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, known for their role in stress and anxiety. In addition, the flavonoids it contains boost concentration and memory.

One last thing… The University of Northumbria in England has looked into another benefit of chocolate: promoting sleep. Indeed, the serotonin it contains helps relaxation. So, no need to feel guilty! Dark chocolate (between 85% and more) is good for your health if you eat it in reasonable quantities as part of a varied diet.

So there you have it, you know everything (or almost everything) about superfoods. Now, it is important to remember that, although they are excellent for your health, they are not intended to become the basis of your diet! We take this opportunity to recommend you to eat local and seasonal!