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Top 10 superfoods

Superfoods like pomegranates, goji berries and quinoa might get all the hype, but there are lots of everyday products that will have super effects on your diet.

Here we've picked out our top 10.

Berries

Berries

What? blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackcurrants, goji berries

Why? High levels of vitamin C, fibre and antioxidants. Research suggests they may improve memory, reduce risk of heart disease and even have anti-aging properties.
Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds

What? walnuts, brazil nuts, almonds, flax seeds, linseeds, sesame seeds

Why? Rich source of minerals, omega-3, antioxidants and essential fatty acids.
Whole grains

Whole grains

What? oats, buckwheat, rye, brown rice, wholemeal flour, quinoa

Why? Great source of minerals, vitamins B and E, antioxidants and soluble fibre. Important in the fight against heart disease and cancer.
Alliums

Alliums

What? onions, garlic, shallots, leeks, chives

Why? Packed with flavonoids that help the body eliminate toxins and carcinogens.
Oily fish

Oily fish

What? salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring

Why? Good source of protein and omega-3 which studies shows could combat heart disease, improve brain power, reduce inflammation and fight depression.
Pulses

Pulses

What? lentils and beans

Why? Powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, vitamin-rich, low glycemic index and high in protein and fibre.
Brassicas

Brassicas

What? broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, spring greens, pak choi, turnips, cauliflower

Why? Packed with vitamins, minerals and detoxifying elements which can help reduce the risk of cancer.
Tomatoes

Tomatoes

What? tomatoes, peppers, chillies

Why? A great source of vitamin C, fibre, and rich in lycopene - one of the most potent carotenoid antioxidants linked with reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Unusually, this is enhanced in processed tomato products.
Oils

Oils

What? olive oil, rapeseed oil, avocado oil, flax oil, coconut oil, sesame oil, hemp oil

Why? Rich in omega-3, 6 and 9 fatty acids essential for bodily functions, including reducing cholesterol and maintaining a healthy heart.
Soy products

Soy products

What? soya beans, soy milk, tofu

Why? High in protein, low in fat, with antioxidant and cholesterol-reducing properties.

By Eleanor Smallwood
 
 
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