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SUPERFOOD

Just a “snippet” of information for this article. Scanning the newspapers this week, I came across an interesting item regarding so called “Superfoods”, such as pomegranates, almonds and acai berries. Apparently, many people believe eating a portion or two of these foods can undo the damage caused by a bad diet.

Top dieticians warned that people are putting themselves at risk by putting so much faith in these types of food. Christina Merryfield, lead dietician at Bupa’s Cromwell hospital in London, said. ‘The term “superfood” is misleading as there is no clear definition of it.’

Ms Merryfield also stated, ‘Many of the supposed health claims about them are vague or not fully substantiated.’

In a YouGov poll for Bupa, six out of ten people said they bought or ate items because they had the “superfood” label on them, while one in five people even consider that “superfoods” can prevent cancer, even though there is no evidence to support this claim.

Ms Merryfield added, ‘Some superfoods like pomegranate juice and almonds can be good for you as part of a balanced diet.’

‘But giving them a heroic sounding name can cause worse diet choices, as people mistakenly believe that they can undo damage caused by unhealthy foods.’

The poll also went on to state that almost one in five people who ate a lot of superfoods were healthier, with a similar number being prepared to pay extra for them.

The item I read gave me pause for thought. For a couple of reasons!

Although Ms Merryfield, is employed as a dietician for Bupa, as mentioned. One has to ask the questions, how many pharmaceutical companies were involved here? Is Ms Merryfield actively involved with a pharmaceutical company, or two, as well as Bupa?

The reason I asked myself the questions, is in the fact that the poll did show that people who ate a lot of superfoods, were actually healthier!

I do agree with the fact we need to ensure we have a balanced diet. I also agree that the labelling on these type of foods needs to be better, and regulated, as they can, indeed, be misleading.

I may just be being a little cynical here. However, the pharmaceutical companies (and let’s not forget food processors!) have a lot to lose if people start turning more to generic goods, which have no patent, and leave behind remedies which do have a patent.

On a personal level, I think I would rather carry on eating these wholesome foods and natural supplements, and know I am not doing myself any harm, and quite possibly, I will be doing myself a power of good. I will also take care to ensure that I don’t overdo it with vitamins & minerals.

Take a look at Aloe – Your Miracle Doctor, the link is in the recommended resources box up on the left. Lots of good advice for a truly natural product.

Something to think about there, huh! Until the next time, keep your chin up, and be wise.

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Paul.

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