Superfoods are nutrient-dense foods that are believed to have great health benefits. They include solid foods, bottled juice drinks, powder mixes, protein or nutrition bars, and smoothies. Some health-conscious people see superfoods as a magic bullet to good health. There are tons of superfoods out there, but we’ve narrowed down just a few to get you started on your way to feeling healthier and help you reduce the risk for certain ailments.

1. Acai Berries: These magical berries are everywhere and have been touted by many dietitians; they can be eaten raw or drank as a juice. The juice can be added to ice cream, jelly, and liqueurs. 

• Potential Benefits: Used for osteoarthritis, high cholesterol, erectile dysfunction, weight loss and obesity, and for improving general health. More evidence is needed to determine its effectiveness in improving these conditions.

2. Avocados: Our favorite of the superfoods is the lovely avocado. Its rich texture is a common ingredient in salads and wraps. They are also used to make guacamole and other dips.

• Potential Benefits: A good source of B vitamins, Vitamin C, potassium, folate, and lutein. They may reduce your risk for heart disease, osteoporosis, depression, and cancer.

3. Blueberries: These yummy little berries are packed full of flavor and an antioxidant punch. They can be eaten alone or added to yogurt, smoothies, fruit salads, or desserts.

• Potential Benefits: Rich in Vitamin C, dietary fiber, and manganese. They may reduce your risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and bone loss.

4. Cauliflower: The recent breakout star of the cruciferous vegetables is cauliflower. It can be eaten alone, added to soups, salads, main dishes, or appetizers, or riced to created a rice substitute.

• Potential Benefits: High in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate, dietary fiber, pantothenic acid, and Vitamin B6. It may reduce your risk for cancer, digestive problems, and osteoporosis.

5. Chia Seeds: The tiny seeds found in the flowering plant in the mint family native to Central American can be made into chia pudding or added to salads, yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothies.

• Potential Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, dietary fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. They may reduce your risk for cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

6. Kale: Kale yeah! This superfood is found everywhere nowadays. It is often added to salads, soups, pastas, or smoothies. It can also be baked, sautéed, or steamed.

• Potential Benefits: High in protein, dietary fiber, vitamins (A, C, and K), folate, alpha-linolenic acid, and lutein. It may reduce your risk for heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and digestive problems.

7. Oats: Eating oats for breakfast can fuel a body for hours. Adding strawberries or blueberries and a dash of cinnamon helps you get the added superfoods your body craves. Oats can be found in cereals, oatmeal, muffins, cookies, and granola bars. 

• Potential Benefits: High in beta-glucan and avenenthramides. They may reduce your risk for diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, and digestive problems. Be careful of granola bars packed with added sugars, which can be bad for you.

8. Strawberries: This delicious berry, picked in the peak of winter, is a favorite of children and adults alike. Strawberries can be eaten alone or added to yogurt, smoothies, fruit salads, or desserts.

• Potential Benefits: High in Vitamin C, fiber, manganese, and potassium. They may reduce your risk for heart disease and cancer.

There are many more superfoods to choose from that will help improve your health. For a more complete listing you can purchase the QuickStudy Nutrition Super Foods & Supplements guide and tailor your superfoods diet to your liking.