Do you feel as though you’re missing out on vital nutrition and health benefits because you can’t afford the latest trendy superfood ingredient for your morning smoothies? Don’t worry – here are the six superfoods you don’t really need to buy. You can substitute them with something that is affordable, yet equally nutritious.
1. Açaí berries
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Little research has been done to prove that these berries have higher antioxidants than other, more readily available, and locally grown berries.
2. Coconut water
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Coconut water is indeed refreshing and not harmful if you love the taste of coconut drinks. It’s been claimed that coconut water has better hydration properties than ordinary water and also contains electrolytes, making it a good post-workout drink. However, the added sugar in flavoured coconut water adds a lot of extra, empty kilojoules. Stick to the unflavoured versions.
3. Wheatgrass
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This is a sprouted grain that is often used as a booster in smoothies and juices. While it does contain nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E and magnesium, it is often praised for its high level of chlorophyll, the green pigments in plants. The nutritional benefits of chlorophyll can just as easily be ingested from other green leafy vegetables.
Related: Make this healthy and delicious salad today!
4. Kale
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Kale has been enjoying the spotlight for quite a while, but does it warrant all the hype? While kale as a cruciferous vegetable definitely has its virtues, the nutrients and fibres it contains can also be found in other more readily available green vegetables. Ditch costly kale – spinach is equally good for you.
5. Agave
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This sweetener does have benefits – it has a low glycaemic index, it’s vegan and it dissolves easily – but we need to remember that it’s still an added sweetener. Agave contains no real nutrients and consists of 90% fructose, the form of sugar contributing to a slew of health problems.
Nutritionists recommend sweeteners such as honey or pure maple syrup. These options are less refined and at least contain some minerals and antioxidants in addition to fructose.
6. Goji berries
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These dry berries with their distinctive sour taste add texture and colour to breakfasts. Are they better than any other berry? No. All berries are equally rich in antioxidants. You don’t have to stop enjoying these berries, but cheaper, locally grown berries will provide the same benefits.
ALSO READ:
- 7 affordable alternative superfoods
- 9 diet myths you need to stop believing
- What your food cravings really mean
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