We’ve all heard that superfruits are good for you, but what exactly are superfruits? Superfruits are exotic fruits found around the world that have been known to have the highest concentration of antioxidants and nutrients of any other food or beverage.
“Superfruits are great because they multi-task,” said fit-living expert Laurel House. “Not only do they give you more energy throughout the day, but they are filled with antioxidants that help prevent disease.”
While nutrition experts are always searching for the “next big thing” in the diet and health industry, some of the most popular superfruits are available in most supermarkets, usually in the form of juices and extracts.
Acai: Acai berries contain several substances called anthocyanins and flavonoids. Acai berries are known to help enhance energy levels and help prevent diseases caused by stress, such as heart disease and cancer. Acai berry products are often sold in health food or gourmet stores, in the form of juice, smoothies, energy drinks, jellies, jams and ice cream.
Barbados Cherry: Also called acerola, Barbados cherries are dark red fruits that hail from the Caribbean. Barbados cherries have twice the vitamin C of oranges and half the calories, with a taste reminiscent of sweet raspberries. Acerola can be eaten fresh, but are mainly used in preserves and pies.
Goji: Known for their beauty-enhancing properties, such as helping improve your complexion, Goji berries are almost never found in the U.S. in their fresh form. Typically sold in bags or boxes in dried form, Goji berries can be enjoyed in cereal, granola, teas and jellies.
Mangosteen: It sounds like mangosteen could be related to everyone’s favorite tropical fruit – mangoes – but don’t be fooled. Mangosteen is a dark purple fruit about the same size as a peach or apple. At its center is a soft white berry that resembles a head of garlic, but has a sweet, tart flavor. Mangosteen is said to have anti-inflammatory properties and helps prevent wrinkles and other signs of aging.