5 Local ‘Superfoods’ You Should Be Eating More Of

I have no idea what complex carbs are, and I marvel at the people that can keep track of their macros and micros, good fats, or good cholesterols. Like most people, I consider it a good day if I’ve remembered to drink enough water. It’s easy to be ignorant of the power of certain foods, but some of them are treasure troves of nutrients. They can make your skin better, give you more energy, and prevent deadly diseases if eaten regularly. It’s time to be more aware of what we put in our bodies.

1. Beetroots

This vibrant red veggie is available at every supermarket or sabzi stand. Most of us overlook this underrated, nutrient-packed vegetable though. They are low in fat, full of vitamins, and packed with powerful antioxidants which protect cells from damage and prevent cancers. Studies have confirmed that beetroots are effective in reducing blood pressure, which helps prevent cardiovascular disease. Beets are also 88% water, which makes them low in calories. Beet juice is a great idea for your morning smoothie — pair it with apple and carrot juice for a giant power punch to the gut. 

2. Berries

They’ve been proven to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, since berries are high in antioxidants. They are also high in vitamin C and fibre. Berries can reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes by acting as an alternative to sugary snacks as well. You can incorporate them into your diet by adding them to your morning bowl of cereal, yoghurt, or even salads.

3. Green Tea

As Pakistanis, we’re all guilty of indulging in one too many cups of chai, and personally speaking, some of us shouldn’t even be approached until we’ve had our morning coffee. Green tea is the neglected middle child of the tea/coffee trifecta. It’s usually reserved for the nights when we’ve eaten too much, or feel a little bloated. They’re useful for so much more than that though! Green tea deserves our attention and love. Not only does it improve brain function in the short term, but also protects your brain by lowering the risk of neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also been shown to boost our metabolism and decrease body fat, which you won’t catch us complaining about. Bring on the second and third cups of green tea, we’re officially big fans.

4. Dates

Dates have an excellent nutritional resumé. You should always have them sitting in your fridge. Since they are dried their caloric content is higher than fresh fruits, but they more than make up for it in what they do for our bodies. Side note: Most of the calories in dates come from carbs, so if you’re following the Keto diet you might want to forego them for a while. If not, then high carb foods are great for making you feel full for longer — they make an ideal breakfast, or midday snack for energy and satiety. Moreover, it is said eating one date per day will help in maintaining eye health for the rest of your life. Sounds like a good bargain, right? Dates are also thought to have a laxative effect. They’re super rich in fibre, so if constipation is bothering you and you’re sick of being bloated, grab a box of dates and go to town.

5. Fish

Winter is coming! Fish is in season, and it should be on your menu at least twice a week. Generally, all types of fish are great for you, but fatty fish like Salmon and Tuna are considered the healthiest since they are higher in fat-soluble vitamin D. Fish has also been seen to reduce the effects of asthma in children by 24%, which is super helpful considering seasonal allergies and winter colds can often trigger adverse reactions from children suffering asthma. Studies have also shown eating fatty fish can improve your quality of sleep and daily functioning.