The term “superfood” was first used to promote bananas in the early 1900s. Today, the word superfood is used to describe any food that has many health benefits, especially those that are rich in nutrients and low in calories. While there are many benefits to consuming superfoods, eating too much of them can be just as dangerous as eating unhealthy junk food.
We believe in the saying: “everything in moderation.” While there are certain foods that are healthier to eat than others, we should not abuse them and let them harm our body.
Broccoli Can Irritate Your Intestines
One cup of raw broccoli contains only 31 calories, 6 grams of carbohydrates, and 0.3 grams of fat. It is rich in fiber, protein, vitamin C, potassium, and other vitamins and minerals.
However, studies have found that consuming too much broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables (cruciferous means “to carry across” and includes vegetables such as kale, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts) can cause intestinal irritation or gas.
In a more alarming light, excessive consumption of broccoli and its cruciferous relatives has negative effects on people taking heart medications and blood thinners due to their high vitamin K content.
Salmon Can Thin Your Blood
Salmon is a good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, good for reducing inflammation. A 3-ounce serving of salmon takes care of almost 30% of an adult’s daily protein needs.
Although salmon is the best option for many health-conscious people, consuming too much omega-3s can have a negative effect on your platelet count and can even thin your blood.
Additionally, studies have found that eating a lot of fish, including salmon, can increase blood levels of mercury.
Unlike wild salmon, farmed salmon has been found to have almost twice the fat and calories. Recent research has also found that farmed salmon may be linked to obesity with the number of pollutants and chemicals that can be found in farm waters.
Cinnamon Can Poison The Body
Cinnamon is considered a superfood due to its high antioxidant content and many medicinal properties. Capable of lowering blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation, and preventing heart disease, the popular apple pie spice is considered one of the top superfoods in the spice family.
Despite all its health benefits, the amount of cinnamon we eat should be controlled for one teaspoon per day per adult. Research has revealed that excess cinnamon can be toxic due to the coumarin it contains. Coumarin is especially dangerous for people with liver problems and can cause liver damage with excessive intake.
It is important to note that there are different types of cinnamon with different levels of coumarin:
- Cássia cinnamon (+ 1%) – considered “normal cinnamon”, the one we use normally
- Ceylon cinnamon (0.04% coumarin), also known as “real cinnamon” or “Mexican cinnamon”
- Cinnamon Korintje (4% coumarin): a cassia cinnamon variety, most popular in North America
- Saigon cinnamon (8% coumarin): stronger and sweeter compared to other cinnamon sticks
Avocado Can Cause Fat Buildup
Avocado has gained worldwide popularity as a superfood in recent years due to its nutritional properties. A single serving of avocado is responsible for a quarter of an adult’s vitamin K needs, a fifth of our folate needs, and a tenth of our daily vitamin E needs. Fat fruits are also rich in omega- 3 and fiber, but too much avocado can also lead to inflammation, bloating, and an upset stomach.
Due to their fatty properties, avocados are not only rich in nutrients, but also high in calories. Like any other calorie, many of them can lead to weight gain. If you plan to include avocados in your daily diet plan, experts recommend eating 50 grams, or about a third to a half of an avocado.
Hummus Can Lead To Obesity
Hummus is a Middle Eastern sauce made from chickpeas, sesame paste, lemon, garlic, and olive oil. Individually, all the ingredients contain a variety of health benefits; But when combined, they produce a nutritious, protein-rich superfood.
Hummus is not only suitable for vegans and people with nut, gluten, and dairy allergies but it has also been linked to better digestive health and blood sugar control.
It is important to note that the benefits of hummus are primarily found in the homemade version. Most store-bought hummus is not as healthy and may even contain dangerous ingredients, such as large amounts of sodium, oils, and unnecessary preservatives.
Shelf hummus, like other processed foods, can contribute to obesity and various diseases, so it’s best to make your own.
Do you think that eating very healthy can be dangerous for your health? Which of these superfoods surprised you the most?
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