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  Life   Health  21 Aug 2017  Experts question health benefits claims about superfoods

Experts question health benefits claims about superfoods

THE ASIAN AGE
Published : Aug 21, 2017, 3:39 pm IST
Updated : Aug 21, 2017, 3:39 pm IST

Here's what they say.

Representational Image. (Photo: Pexels)
 Representational Image. (Photo: Pexels)

Superfoods are believed to hold powerful benefits.

They are thought to be nutrient-rich with immense health benefits. Risk of heart disease, stroke and cancer could be reduced if people consume superfoods it widely believed.

But are they really packed filled with goodness like many claim? Experts say no one food is the answer to combat unhealthy lifestyle or reduce the risk of a disease, according to a report by The Sun.

UK's National Health Service's guide to these kinds of foods has been banned on packaging unless there is scientific evidence to back it up.

Here are some facts and evidence over superfoods’ big benefits, as reported by The Sun.

1 Blueberries

Nutrition: Source of vitamin C, manganese, fibre and antioxidants.

Dieticians say the evidence about its huge health benefits is inconclusive.

2 Kale

Nutrition: Vitamin K, C, A and B6

Experts suggest eating kale as part of a broad and diverse diet.

3 Goji berries

Nutrition: Vitamin C, B2, A, iron, selenium and antioxidants.

They are thought to boost brain activity, longevity and help protect against cancer and heart disease. However, these claims have not been backed up by important research.

4 Green tea

Nutrition: Folate, vitamin B,  antioxidants

There is currently inconclusive evidence about its health benefits.

5 Broccoli

Nutrition: Vitamins C, A, K, folate, calcium and fibre.

More research is needed to determine if broccoli can help fight cancer, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

6 Garlic

Nutrition: Vitamin, C, B6, manganese, selenium and antioxidants.

Evidence as of now suggests that its supplements may not have a significant effect on your health.

7 Wheatgrass

Nutrition: Vitamin A, C, E, iron, calcium and magnesium.

While it is thought to be nutritionally superior to any other vegetable, experts say the evidence suggests otherwise.

Instead of focusing on trendy foods, experts suggest a diet that contains fruit, vegetables and wholegrains.

Tags: superfoods, nutrition, vegetables, diet, fruit, calcium, heath and wellbeing, health, health benefits, wheatgrass, garlic, broccoli, green tea, goji berries, kale, blueberries