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Superfood is a popular term and a nutrition buzzwords. Superfoods—nutrient-dense, health-promoting foods—are taking center stage, especially those that support antioxidant activity, reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and promote gut health. These four pillars of wellness are more important than ever, as research continues to highlight their role in preventing chronic diseases and enhancing overall well-being. Today we are going to talk about a survey from Today's Dietitian and Pollock Communications' annual "Nutrition Trends" survey of 564 registered dietitians providing a prediction of 2024 food trend and superfood.
In this survey, affordability and gut health will be key drivers of consumer purchasing decisions in 2024. With an increase in grocery prices, dietitians predict affordability will be an important driver of what people decide to buy. Another trend might be gut health. More and more people are interested in learning the benefits of a healthy microbiome and its impact on our health including weight management, emotional health (such as anxiety, depression), and immune system and etc. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for the protection of immune health, and consumers are interested in immunity-supporting foods. In this survey, dietitians predict that the top purchase drivers in 2024 will be foods and beverages that: Affordability (65%); Promote gut health (60.4%) Accessible and convenient (59.8%) Support immunity (52.6%).
Top Superfoods for 2024 | What to eat for antioxidant rich, anti-inflammatory, immune support and gut health?
According to the dietitians who participated in the "What's Trending in Nutrition" survey.
Fermented foods, such as yogurt, kimchi, kombucha tea, pickled vegetables
Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, the “good” bacteria that populate your gut microbiome. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health.
Blueberries
Blueberries are high in antioxidants, especially flavonoids like anthocyanins, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce cell damage.
Seeds, such as chia and hemp
Chia seeds and hemp seeds are loaded with fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like calcium, magnesium.
Avocados
Avocados are loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. It is a good source of fiber. Half of the avocado is about 6gram fiber. It equals about 20% of daily fiber requirement.
Nuts, like almonds and walnuts
Almonds contain monounsaturated fats that help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and improve heart health. Walnuts are great source of ALA, which is an essential fatty acid and it can be converted to EPA and DHA omega-3.
Green tea
Green tea is loaded with polyphenols and catechins, especially EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate), which help fight free radicals and reduce cell damage.
Pulses, such as dry peas, beans, lentils, and chickpeas
Legumes like dry beans, lentils, peas, and chickpeas are considered as plant-based protein. They are packed with nutrients and offer a wide range of health benefits.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are low in calories yet rich in essential nutrients such as B vitamins (like riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid), selenium, potassium, and copper.
It is very interesting that many mushrooms produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D is important for bone health and immune function.
Ancient grains
Ancient grains refer to grains and pseudocereals that have remained the outer shell with very minimal processing. They are typically rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthful alternative to more refined grain.
Salmon
Salmon is one of the best sources of EPA and DHA—essential omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation, support heart health, and promote brain function. Salmon is also considered as a good protein source.
Final thoughts:
As a registered dietitian, I agree the 10 food listed above are pretty good sources of nutrients, and packed with antioxidants, and polyphenols, which can be beneficial for our health. However, there is no single food or supplement can perform miracles. Having a healthy and balanced diet are the key for our gut health, immune system, and lower chronic health risks (such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and etc).
Cheers,
Elaine Vancouver Dietitian
Reference
Affordability and Gut Health Predicted as Leading Food Purchase Drivers in 2024
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