What do aronia berries, pomegranates, turmeric, beetroot, avocados and currants have in common? What sounds more like a strange smoothie combination to some is actually a nutritional trend. Superfruits in sports nutrition are a hot topic, which naturally interests the experts at nutrineo. What exactly are superfruits? What effects do they promise to have on one's fitness? Do they really work in that way?
Verena Claus
Marketing Manager
Phone: +49 581 806-6166
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Contrary to general expectations, superfruits are not limited to exotic fruits, but also include fruits growing directly in our region; for example, currants or pumpkin seeds are also said to have a positive effect on health if consumed in sufficient quantities.
Whether the fruits actually have a positive effect on health is a matter of controversy as discussed in the existing literature, similar to other sports nutrition trends such as low-carb or ketogenic diets.
On the one side there are some nutritionists who have the opinion that superfruits act like drugs, provided that they are consumed in high quantities and in a form that is as natural as possible, for example as raw fruits.
On the other side there is the Verbraucherzentrale (German Consumer Advice Center) that takes the opposite view and even warns in part against their consumption, especially of concentrates and exotic fruits. This is because first of all, the health effect has not been established, secondly, the production conditions in the countries of origin can, amongst other things, result in higher contamination with harmful substances, and thirdly, toxic substances can more frequently be found in the concentrates.
nutrineo recommends superfruits, for example in combination with protein shakes or protein puddings to support fitness or muscle building training. The abundance of nutrients satisfies the need for proteins, polyphenols and vitamins. Antioxidants and minerals play an important role in high intensity training. This is why superfruits are a good alternative to other fruits and should at least be considered in future diet plans.
Superfruits in focus
Pomegranate
• Rich in polyphenols and antioxidants
• Reduces blood pressure for a short time and oxidative stress
• Reduces intestinal discomfort, skin rashes, headaches
• Especially tasty with salads, in juices and smoothies
Chokeberries
• Contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants
• Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering
• Serve best with green leaf vegetables; can be consumed dried or as juice
Acai berries
• Antioxidants
• Promote metabolism
• Cultivation in the rainforest is critically questioned
• Replace preferably with blueberries or sour cherries (contain more antioxidants)
Currants
Goji berries
The "Green Energy" smoothie from our nutrineo experts can make it easier for you to get started with the Superfruit theme and is particularly suitable for working people who don't have much time in the morning.
In summary, it can be stated that the consumption of minimally processed superfruits or fruits of domestic origin is in any case harmless, probably even beneficial to health. However, there is no scientific evidence available that they have a performance-enhancing effect or can, for example, reduce wrinkles.
Verena Claus
Marketing Manager
Phone: +49 581 806-6166
Get in touch