Organic vegan superfoods are something every vegan should be aware of to ensure they are getting a boost in their nutritional needs.
We understand that when just starting out vegan, there are definitely a few things you may be conscious about. For help on that you can always reference our most recent blog post, HERE.
With any type of diet there always seems to be a buzz around the word, superfoods.
But, what about organic vegan superfoods? Yes, there are plenty of plant based alternatives just in case you were wondering.
So, in today’s blog post we are going to cover 9 organic vegan superfoods that you should consider incorporating in your diet.
First, what are superfoods?
The term ‘superfood’ is actually a marketing term that describes foods with alleged health benefits.
To count as a superfood, the food has to fulfill certain criteria.
The food must provide a large amount of nutrients or vital substances.
The food should be as natural as possible. Organic is a plus.
To be a superfood all parts of the food are used. If only one substance/vitamin is used it counts as a dietary supplement
Here are 9 Organic Vegan Superfoods
Raw Sauerkraut – Raw sauerkraut (not pasteurized) is famous for supporting gut health. It contains a large amount of probiotics, which are linked to good digestion and other health benefits like weight loss, healthy skin, and an enhanced immune function.
Non-vegan foods that contain those probiotics are yogurt and kefir.
Broccoli – Broccoli is known to be one of the healthiest greens on the planet.
It is not only full of vitamin C, but also contains vital nutrients like beta-carotene, folic acid and many minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphate.
Broccoli helps to improve the immune system and the UV-protection of the skin. Some studies even say that it helps in the battle against cancer.
Chickpeas – When going vegan you have to find other sources of protein, since most of your protein intake probably did come from animal products (meat, eggs, diary).
Chickpeas, just like other legumes, contain high amounts of fiber and protein. Furthermore you will find other key nutrients for example vitamin A, E and C, folate, magnesium, potassium and iron.
Chickpeas are known to support gut health and help fight heart diseases and certain kinds of cancer.
Avocado – Avocado is one of the most popular foods amongst health conscious people, and not without a reason.
This fruit is a real superfood, because it does not contain any cholesterol, sodium and avocados are low in saturated fats (aka the “bad” fats).
Because almost 70% of an avocado is fats, you will feel fuller for longer and you are less likely to snack mindlessly throughout the day.
Avocados provide other nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B, vitamin E and vitamin A. They are also a great source for potassium, which isn’t produced by the body naturally.
Turmeric – Inflammation plays a big part in many ailments, ranging from acne, heart diseases to Alzheimer’s.
If you are not eating a well-balanced diet, you run the risk of getting chronic inflammation.
Turmeric is a spice, that gives curry its yellow color and contains a compound called curcumin.
Curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and helps fight inflammation on a molecular level.
Acerola – As mentioned above, broccoli contains a lot of vitamin C, but that is nothing compared to this bright red berry.
Acerola is a vitamin C bomb and probably contains more vitamin C than any other food.
Despite its small size, this berry does also contain a lot of vitamin A , the same amount as a full-sized carrot, which helps improve your vision.
With those two important vitamins, acerola also supports your immunity and is rich in antioxidants.
Acai – Even if you are not into fitness, you have probably heard of the vegan superfood berry Acai.
This berry from South America is famous for different health benefits, especially for its benefits as an antioxidant.
The most important component in the berry is anthocyanins, which
gives acai berries the deep purple color and functions as an antioxidant (can be found in blueberries or black beans as well).
Another plus is that acai contains healthy fats and are low in sugar.
Lentils – Lentils belong to the legumes and are another great source of protein.
In combination with their cholesterol-lowering fiber, they are good in lowering cholesterol and managing blood sugar levels.
So after eating lentils you are less likely to have one of those blood-sugar
spikes that makes you want to binge on every cookie that is in sight.
Flaxseeds – Flaxseeds are mostly known for their heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are mostly found in fish.
Just one tablespoon gives you a good amount of protein and fiber as well.
Even if you are not vegan you should still consider adding these organic vegan superfoods into your diet.
Remember, you DO NOT have to eat animals to be healthy!
It is important to know that nature offers a wide range of super healthy foods that give you everything you need without having to harm or eat animals.
So now I am curious….what are you favorite organic vegan superfoods? Let me know in the comments section below.
