Superfoods or Supermyths?

As we all want to live a healthy life and have our children eat well, you may have considered having more of the so-called superfoods in your diet, such as Acai Berries, Goji Berries or Wheatgrass. In an article at thinkingnutrition.com.au, Tim Crowe explains why superfoods are more like supermyths.

No conclusive clinical studies

Crowe says no clinical studies have been done yet to prove that Acai Berries have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. The same for Goji berries, proponents of which claim it has the highest level of vitamin C of all plants. According to Crowe, such claims can only be make believe, as Goji berries offer no real special health benefits over strawberries, blueberries and other more familiar berries.

Anti-cancer properties are also being attributed to Noni fruit and juice, but the best it can do, according to one study mentioned by Crowe, is that it lessens nausea in post-surgery patients. Ginger is also capable of lessening nausea, adds Crowe.

Of the superfoods being debunked by Crowe in his article, it’s the claims for wheatgrass that gives cause for concern. One claim that stands out in particular is the one where one 30 mL ‘shot’ of wheatgrass is nutritionally equivalent to one kilogram of vegetables. Crowe, in all disgust, dismisses this as utter nonsense. He says that one tablespoon of spinach has more nutrients than a single shot of wheatgrass juice.

Just a marketing term

Personally, I think the word superfoods is just a marketing term. Although I understand that some foods are more nutritious than others, no one superfood can deliver all the health benefits a person needs. The key to good health will always be eating right, getting regular exercise and getting enough rest. This is what we should instill in our children, and they will be the healthier for it.

To read the full article, read here.

Tags: children's health

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