Superfood - that sounds like very special and possibly exotic food that has to be prepared according to complicated recipes. Yet a diet that prepares our body well for the cold season is actually quite simple. After all, vitamins are what our organism and especially our immune system needs during the cold season.
We eat quinoa bowls, sip açai smoothies and smear avocado breads as if we'd always done it this way. But we often forget one thing: this superfood usually comes from very distant countries, is grown especially for western cultures and has to travel thousands of kilometres by plane before it lands on our plates.
Totally unnecessary, we think. Because there are also local fruits and vegetables that contain many vitamins and minerals and taste mega delicious:
Pumpkin
Pumpkins are in high season. Everywhere you look you can see the bright orange fruit vegetables, which are great as soup, but also in the oven, e.g. in slatted form. Pumpkin is rich in vitamin C, which has an anti-inflammatory effect and slows down the ageing process of the cells. Pumpkin is also rich in magnesium, which protects the immune system and the heart. Potassium and zinc ensure regular blood pressure, and the proteins it contains are particularly important for vegetarians and vegans. As a spread, it is a delicious - albeit orange-coloured - avocado substitute.
Brussels sprouts
This small cabbage with the florets is rich in fibre, protein, vitamin C and folic acid. Studies have shown that Brussels sprouts can protect against carcinogenic substances. The vegetables also contain substances that can help with arthritis and asthma. Because Brussels sprouts can regulate oestrogen levels, they are also said to have a curative effect on hormone-related problems, such as PMS or menopause. Because Brussels sprouts contain bitter substances, some people have an aversion to them, but this is completely unfounded. Brussels sprouts should be washed and their outer leaves removed before cooking them in light salted water. Also delicious: fried Brussels sprouts.
Nuts
are simply underestimated by many, the nut representative begins with the angular nutcracker face. As a real superfood they are full of vitamins and minerals for a strong immune system. They also contain plenty of protein, high-quality fatty acids and nerve-strengthening B vitamins. Just take our secret superstar, the WALNUT. Women in particular benefit from its high folic acid content. And with its extra portion of zinc it supports the natural beauty from within.
Flaxseed
It does not always have to be chia seeds: Linseed from domestic production is also good for your health. They are an excellent source of vegetable omega-3 fatty acids, which can help prevent cardiovascular disease in particular. And the seeds are also very beneficial for the intestines and digestion due to their very high fibre content.
Pears
Autumn is here and the pears taste good again. What the apple is in summer, the pear is definitely in autumn.
And this superfood is healthy, because they:
- have a high content of antioxidants that trap free radicals.
- contain many fibres that protect us from ravenous appetite attacks because they keep us full longer.
- contain a lot of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system.
- are easily digestible and low-fat.
- have a high content of potassium, calcium and boron. The first two stimulate the metabolism and the latter helps the body store calcium.
Pears can be eaten raw as fruit or in a salad. Pears can also be poached, cooked or baked in the oven.
So you see: delicious and inexpensive superfoods can also be found in domestic regions! Why not try them out - we are sure that they will be of help to you, especially in autumn.