Recent news (Blog)
Super foods and their benefits
- Hits: 2928
San José, Costa Rica. May, 2015.
Chia seeds, flaxseed, cranberries, kale leaves, aloe, among others, are part of the so-called super foods. They bring many benefits either in their natural form, enriched or fortified, they improve the quality of lives of people and their consumption can prevent certain common diseases.
According to Dr. Monserrat Schmidt Zumbado, nutritionist of the Clínica Bíblica Hospital, “Although it is true that these super foods boost life quality, it is important to clarify that in the same way as any product, they should be consumed in proper quantities, since the excess could be harmful and may even have effects that are contrary to what is desired.”
In the same way, in the case of people who already have certain pathologies, these foods may collaborate with the control of the disease or reduce the risk of complications.
Another important aspect to consider is that the properties of these foods vary according to the type of active compounds present in each one of them. In the case of the most common super foods, the benefits are:
• Chia: Excellent source of fiber and anti-oxidants, calcium, protein and fatty acids and omega 3. When the chia seeds are combined with liquids, they form a kind of soluble fiber that helps you to feel full longer. It also delays the increase of sugar in the blood.
• Flaxseed: a seed rich in diet fiber, both soluble as well as insoluble. It is a source of anti-oxidants and Omega 3. The soluble fiber helps to regulate blood pressure and the levels of glucose in the blood. It is also associated with the prevention of diverticulitis (inflammation of diverticula in the colon) and prostate cancer.
• Aloe Vera: Its nutritional content is extensive since it contains vitamin A, C, E and B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12, folic acid, minerals, among others. Aloe Vera is healing, moisturizing and regenerating. It has anti-inflammatory properties ideal for reducing problems such as acne. It is depurative, disintoxicating and favors digestion. It regulates glucose in the organism and is considered a diet supplement.
[alert]
Super foods or functional foods have become more and more popular so they are easy to find in supermarkets, macrobiotic shops, agricultural fairs or exhibitions for organic products, and even the internet.
[/alert]
Although it is true that these foods have excellent properties and benefits, they are not magical and, therefore, should be consumed in the recommended portions and as a supplement for a balanced diet, which also suits a healthy life style.
“It is noteworthy that the super foods are not tablets, capsules or other forms of nutritional supplements, but foods in their natural form. Under no circumstance should they replace the medical treatment in persons that present any illness,” concluded Dr. Schmidt.
For further information or for requesting medical attention, please call the number 2522-1000, or write to the email citas@clinicabiblica.com or contact us via chat at the website: www.clinicabiblica.com.
CHAT
Clínica Bíblica Hospital
