A superfood basically is a food that is very rich in nutrients, vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and electrolytes while containing low levels of calories compared with other usual foods.
Our lifestyle and our diet in a great way affect not only the health but also the shape of our bodies. It is because of such knowledge that increasingly there is promotion and consumption of all-natural, gluten-free and non-GMO foods.
Brazilians have been known for many centuries to have kept alive the culture of majorly consuming foods that are exceptionally healthy and free of chemicals that can be dangerous to their health. It is no wonder that most Brazilians have a perfect body and are healthy or fit. The superfoods in Brazil are plenty because they are cultivated in the natural and fertile Amazon forest. Consequently, if you want to benefit from the immense health properties and nutrient-rich content of the healthy Brazilian diets, here are the best superfoods to try.
Acai berry
For centuries, the Acai berry has remained as part of the Brazilian staple diet and for that reason, it is a popular superfood. Acai berry is small in size and has a dark purplish color and it is available in plenty and naturally in the Amazon rainforest. Acai berry is rich in antioxidants compared with other berries including strawberries and blueberries. Acai berry is also rich in healthy fats and fibers which greatly also assists in promoting weight loss and boosts your immune system. Acai mask is a popular exfoliating gel mask for the purpose of invigorating the skin.
Coconut water, flesh, and oil
The Anao coconut is the most popular coconut type in Brazil. The shell of the fruit is smooth and green and the water inside is rich in electrolytes, potassium, and kinetin. The water has hydrating health benefits because of the electrolytes and potassium contained. The kinetin functions to keep the coconut young even though it is exposed to the harmful effects of the sun all day. The coconut meat is rich in fiber and protein and has healthy saturated fat. The saturated fat has been proven to support our skin, nervous system, immune system, and thyroid gland. The coconut butter and oil also contain this type of fat that is safer and healthier for our bodies.
Cupuaçu
The fruit is a cocoa plant relative and it grows naturally in the Brazilian rainforest. The fruit has the expected rich chocolate flavor and it contains antioxidants, phytonutrients, triglycerides, and amino acids. The fruit is available in the form of butter and it can either be used as alternative cooking oil or added to smoothies. Moreover, the wild fruit butter can be directly applied onto the hair and skin to achieve softness, smoothness and a wonderful smell.
Camu Camu
This berry grows in the Amazon region and it contains about 100 times the quantity of the Vitamin C contained in lemon. The berry also has good fatty acid, beta-carotene, and protein. It is because of its nutrients the reason why the berry has been relied on for centuries for treating depression, asthma, and headaches apart from other illnesses. Camu Camu’s lightly acidic taste used to discourage people from eating it but its popularity has risen over the last few years as it is available in a processed form. You can get it in the form of capsules or powder. Furthermore, creams and serums for skin-brightening are also increasingly using the CamuCamu berry.
Brazil nuts
They are a rich source of selenium and therefore the nuts are recommended for people with a thyroid that is underactive or has a low function. Selenium is also important for supporting your immunity, hindering depression and faster healing of wounds. 2-3 Brazil nuts a day will supply you with your daily Selenium requirement.
Banana
The huge Brazilian bananas are known as plantain while the sweet and smaller ones are identified as silver bananas. All the different types of Brazilian bananas are packed with resistant starch and potassium. The healthy carb packed in Brazilian bananas helps you stay satiated and thus prevent snacking. Some studies have also linked the bananas to be great for lowering blood pressure.
Yucca
Yucca root, otherwise known as cassava, is also a popular superfood consumed by Brazilians. Just a cup of the root vegetable contains approximately half the daily doses recommended for manganese and Vitamin C. Yucca root also contains high levels of fiber, folate, and potassium. The high nutrient content of Yucca is beneficial in the rebuilding of collagen and fighting free radicals. You can eat Yucca either in its dried, steamed or boiled form.
Watermelon
In Brazil, watermelons grow naturally and they are packed with water and thus they have low calories and sugar. Watermelons also contain Vitamin C and A. Watermelons have been linked to reducing heart disease risk and lowering blood pressure. In conclusion, these are some of the best Brazilian superfoods available for you so make sure that you try them out.
