Superfood, we have all heard the term and could probably name a few of them. But how many of us could explain what superfoods are or what characterizes a food as a superfood? According to the American Heart Association there are no set of criteria for identifying what is and isn’t a superfood. Now we are talking about a very common term that isn’t a food group and doesn’t have set parameters. So what exactly is a superfood?

Simply put, superfoods are foods found in nature that are typically low in calories, high in nutrients, and good for one’s health. They tend to be an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential nutrients-nutrients the body can’t produce on its own. Incorporating these types of foods in our diets can help us live a healthier, longer life.

The truth is, not all foods labeled as superfoods are equal. The lack of set parameters and characteristics has new “superfoods” popping up left and right. All it takes is one celebrity to tweet about their favorite food and boom, a new “superfood” that cures everything under the sun is born.

It takes looking past the hype and marketing claims and into the science behind the product to make an educated decision on which superfoods you should be putting in your body. As you continue your health journey and carefully select your superfoods look for the following characteristics:

• Found in Nature: Superfoods are not made in a lab. In fact, our bodies are not meant to process lab made “foods.” Be sure your superfood can be found in nature.
• Natural Regeneration: Can your superfood grow on its own or does it require input from humans? Look for a superfood like wild microalgae or AFA (Aphanizomenon flos-aquae). This microalgae thrives in Klamath Lake and grows from late Spring/early Summer into the cooler months of Fall without any human intervention.
• Nutrient Dense: Look for a food with a variety of nutrients. We are talking about vitamins, minerals, amino acids, phytopigments, antioxidants, and fatty acids. For example, AFA contains three key phytopigments, over 60 trace minerals, 20 amino acids, trace levels of over 12 vitamins, a variety of antioxidants, and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
• Scientific Evidence: Look for the scientific evidence. Make sure the company you purchase from can back up their claims. Don’t be afraid to seek third-party validation or email the company for additional scientific information.

Looking for a green superfood that fits the criteria above? Try New Earth’s organic Wild Microalgae® risk-free with our 90-day guarantee.