Consumers today are increasingly choosing healthier food and beverage options. The NPD Group in one of their health and wellness research, reported that approximately a quarter of U.S. adults are trying to manage a health or medical condition with the choice of ‘Superfoods’. The Superfoods are foods that help you live a longer and healthier life.

About 19% of the meal and snacking choices by young adults were made considering health improving foods. NPD’s Health Aspirations & Behavioral Tracking Service found that young adults were 45% more likely to choose foods that promote brain health, as compared to the 35-44 age group.

Superfoods provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in higher proportion. They boost your immune system, heart health, and energy levels. Some of the well-known superfoods are salmon, elderberry, Manuka honey, kale, quinoa, Indian ginseng, etc.

The NPD found that consumers are interested in trying the following superfoods for their special powers:

Elderberry for its antioxidants that help to ward off flu and cold and as an immunity booster.

Manuka Honey obtained from the Manuka flower to improve digestion, heal wounds, etc.

Indian Ginseng also known as the ‘Ashwagandha Herb’ for its calming properties.

Having a balanced diet and an exercise routine along with consumption of superfoods is necessary for a healthier lifestyle. A well balanced diet should include a variety of pulses, nuts, fruits, vegetables. As the INTEGRIS dietician Meagan Ballard says, “No one food can provide you all of the essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants you need. It is very important to eat a wide variety of nutrient-rich foods to obtain the health benefits our bodies need. There is nothing wrong with eating a food item that provides you a good amount of a specific vitamin or mineral that you need, but our bodies require many vitamins and minerals to function properly, so don’t rely on one superfood alone to achieve this.”