Superfoods: Health benefits, uses, and risks

The higher levels of flavonoids in berries have been shown to lower the risk of a heart attack . A few commonly identified superfood berries include

• acai berries
• blueberries
• raspberries
• tart cherries
• cranberries
• goji berries

The high omega-3 fatty acid content in salmon and other fatty fish, such as trout and herring, can decrease the risk of abnormal heartbeats, reduce cholesterol and slow the growth of arterial plaque.

Research has found that dark chocolate is high in flavonoids. Flavonoids demonstrate antioxidant activity, prevent coronary heart disease and certain types of cancer, and boost the immune system.

The component in chocolate specifically responsible for these benefits is cacao powder. Manufacturers derive this from cacao beans. Bear in mind that chocolate may have added ingredients, such as added sugar, that might negate these benefits.

Resveratrol, the polyphenol found in wine that made it famously “heart healthy”, is present in the skins of red grapes.

A few studies have shown promise that resveratrol can protect against diabetic neuropathy and retinopathy. These are conditions caused by poorly controlled diabetes where vision is severely affected.