10 Energize your health with unique Asian foods

Superfoods are all the rage for the past decade. We’ve all heard about kale, acai and flax seeds, and they’ve all been praised for their many health benefits.

But what’s often forgotten are the superfoods grown outside of western countries. Specifically, in Asia.

Are there any Asian superfoods that can boost my health?

Let’s take a closer look.

Here are 10 super foods from Asia that we recommend adding to your diet.

 

1. Mung bean sprouts

 

Mung Bean Sprouts are often served as a garnish in Asian soups, stir-frys, and other dishes. However, you may not be aware that these little white sprouts contain so many health benefits.

Mung beans are a great source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K, as well as B vitamins. They are a rich source of folate and iron, which makes them beneficial for maintaining good health. Mung beans are also a great source of manganese.

This crunchy and nutty-tasting sprout can help you feel and look younger. Mung beans can strengthen cartilage and skin, as well as connective tissue. Additionally, its antioxidants can help fight against cellular aging. 
 

2. Shiitake mushrooms

 
Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms are the second most common edible mushroom in the world. Their savoury, slightly meaty taste makes them a popular choice for soups and stir-fries, as well as other Asian dishes.

What are the Benefits of Shiitake Mushrooms?

Herbal remedies are often used in shiitake mushroom therapy. Shiitake can help reduce cholesterol, inflammation, and improve your immune system.

Zinc, selenium, and vitamin B2 are some of the most effective anti-cancer compounds.


3. Kimchi


 
Red in colour, kimchi is a traditional Korean dish that is made with fermented radishes, scallions, pickled cabbage, and cucumber. The fermentation process of kimchi produces probiotics that aid in good digestion and absorption of nutrients in the body. It is also rich in vitamin A, vitamin B, and vitamin C .

4. Ginger


Ginger is a popular spice that is used to season many Asian dishes. It is a sharp, spiky herb that can add a bit of zest to your food.

Benefits of ginger:
Ginger has a variety of anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation. It can also help with gastrointestinal issues and digestion.
If you are a gym-goer, you will be pleased to know that—when consumed on a daily basis—ginger reduces muscle pain and muscle soreness.

5. Taro


A purple root vegetable with a mild nutty flavor, taro has a baked potato-like consistency when cooked. Originating in India and Southeast Asia, taro can be simply referred to as a ‘tropical potato.’

Vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants are abundant in taro, making it an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Taro has been shown to reduce the risk of diabetes and improve vision, as well as boost the immune system.

6. Edamame




EDAMAMA IS A SALTY, FINGER-LICKING, BUTTERY-LING GOODNESS

Considered one of the most popular appetizers in Japanese restaurants, edamames is made from boiled green soybeans that are packed with protein and complex carbs.

The health benefits of edamames include:

1. It lowers cholesterol

2. It helps prevent cancer

3. It helps prevent heart disease

4. It helps prevent osteoporosis

5. It is a good source of iron

6. It is rich in vitamins A and C
 

7. Goji Berries



Goji berries are a type of fruit snack with a slightly bitter taste but a pleasant aftertaste. They are often used in traditional Chinese medicine and contain high amounts of vitamin C and vitamin A, as well as selenium. Goji berries are known to reduce the risk of cancer, protect the heart, and improve vision.

8. Bok Choy


Bok choy is one of the most nutritious vegetables in the cruciferous family and has been cultivated in Asia for thousands of years. Bok choy is rich in vitamin A and C and fiber, as well as magnesium, zinc and iron. It also contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce the risk of cancer, strengthen bones and improve skin health.
 

9. Umeboshi plums


These tiny Japanese plums are sometimes added to soups or stir-fries and have a sour taste.

The pickled plums are low in calories and rich in manganese and potassium, as well as fiber.

They also help reduce fatigue and remove toxins from the body.

Umeboshi has been found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells, decrease liver damage, and improve digestion.

10. Daikon


What is Daikon, Also Known As Chinese Radish, Mooli Radish, Satsuma Radish and Japanese Radish?

This unique East Asian vegetable may appear to be a white carrot, but it is in fact a white radish, also known as a cruciferous vegetable.

What is the health benefits of Daikon?

Like other cruciferous vegetables, Daikon has many health benefits. This food item is abundant in fiber, and is also a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium. It also contains a good amount of beta carotene and iron, as well as phosphorus and calcium.

Why is Daikon good for your health?

The white radish has many health benefits, but perhaps the most important one is that it improves digestion.

Diastase is an enzyme found in radishes that helps to reduce heartburn and indigestion. It also helps to speed up hangover recovery.








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