By Rishabh Chokhani
Founder and CEO, Naturevibe Botanicals
With summer in full swing, to keep our body healthy and hydrated is of utmost priority. Every season has its pros and cons, so does summer. No matter how bright the sun blazes we still love going outdoors in the sweat-trickling heat. Here is a list of 5 superfoods that one should include in their diet to be summer ready against heat stokes, inflammation, irritability, etc :
1. Flax Seed
Flax seed belongs to the flax plant called Linum Usitatissimum, which is an ancient grain and dates back to Babylon in 3000 BC. Earlier Americans used it weave linen but nowadays, its seed are used as superfoods. It is packed with a good amount of protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and is rich source of some vitamins and minerals. It contains lignans that are antioxidant and have estrogen properties, which lower the risk of cancer and improve health.
2. Quinoa
Quinoa is the most popular superfood in the world for its long list of health benefits. It is gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contain amounts of all nine essential amino acids. It comes in three types: white, red and black, and includes plant antioxidants called flavonoids. It is very high in its fiber content and helps to reduce blood sugar levels, lowers cholesterol, and helps with weight loss. It also contains lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair.
3. Black Chia
Chia seeds, also known as Salvia Hispanica, are considered one of the most popular superfoods around the globe. These come from a species of flowering plant in mint family and are native to areas of Mexico and Guatemala. These seeds, if properly prepared, can be easily digested. These have many health benefits like it supports healthy skin, enhances oral health, fights cancer growth, balances blood sugar levels, improves heart health, promotes digestive health, boosts energy and exercise performance, etcetera.
4. Goji Berries
Goji berries, also known as Lycium Barbarum or wolfberries, are used in traditional Chinese medicines for more than 2000 years. These berries have a sweet taste and therefore can be consumed raw or as a juice or herbal tea. These contain high levels of antioxidants, which helps to protect the body against free radicals. Some of the many benefits of these berries are the ability to protect eyes from age-related diseases, promotes healthy skin, supply high levels of antioxidants, vitamin C and vitamin A, boosts immune system and protects the body from high levels of inflammation.
5. Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds or Pepitas have many powerful nutritional benefits packed together and have been consumed since ancient Aztec times. They are popular for their medicinal properties, delicious flavor, versatility and energy sustaining abilities. These are special source of zinc, magnesium, omega-3 fats, manganese and antioxidants, which helps reducing anxiety and stress, boosts metabolism and promotes sleep.