Everytime I hear the word “superfood” I think of some odd cartoon of a fruit with superhero cape...…I know the visual is odd  but after finding pictures of superhero fruit I guess I am not the only one.

 We have all most likely heard the term “superfood” but what does that really mean and what foods have been coined this term. 

There has been a lot of debate in the media what is a “superfood” and normally we do not use this term in medical field However, it is important we are aware of what a “superfood” is associated with. The word superfood has been associated with foods that deem multiple amounts of benefits while consuming these. Additionally the term “superfood” has also included supplements such as green tea extracts which are not regulated by the FDA. Just by doing a search on the internet, I found that now supplement drinks that provide what they stated multiple grasses are being categorized as a “superfood”. We have to be cautious with the term “superfood” as they are normally highlighted in the media to sell a product or endorse an organization.  

Many of the foods that have been placed into these categories include:

Green leafy vegetables

              

                Broccoli

                Kale

                Brussels sprouts

                Collard greens

 

Citrus and Berry fruits

                

                Blueberries

                Raspberries

                Acai

                Pomegranate

Fatty Fish

                Salmon

                Mackerel

                Sardines

Legumes

                Lentils

                Beans

Most of us are enjoying this hot summer weather; however, we do have to be careful while outside for many reasons! Dehydration and the sun itself can cause many problems that need to be kept in mine. 

Dehydration can occur very quickly. Make sure to stay hydrated before you even go outside to start your summer day adventures. Drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day. Some signs of dehydration can include thirst, weakness, confusion and fainting.

There are even very cute backpacks that you can buy now that hold water to help hydrate you throughout the day. Make sure to eat foods that are filled with water content: cantaloupe, grapefruit, strawberries and of course watermelon – that one even says it in its name! Coconut water could also be consumed for additional hydration. 

Sun screen is very important in the sun as well for overall health. The sun can cause major damage immediately causing burns and longterm possibly causing skin cancer in many individuals. SPF is the barrier measure of the ability to protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation rays from the sun. There are many things to keep in mind with sunscreen: how much to apply, what SPF to choose, and re-application is necessary many times. 

Here is a good link: http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen

Overall, we all want to enjoy the time that we can outside especially in cities that have long winters. Just make sure to protect yourself while doing so and hindering dehydration and skin burning.