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In Mexico , there is a broad and rich variety of foods that we can –and should- include in our diet. Many Mexican foods are so nutritious that they could even be considered super foods .
Mexicans are used to consuming some of these foods on a regular basis. Such is the case of nopales, beans, chile, avocado, chayote squash, corn cobs (“elotes”) , and sweet potato. However, today we will focus on other foods that perhaps you don’t know about.
1- Pápalo : Also known as pápaloquelite or Bolivian coriander , it is an edible herb with significant health benefits. Due to its high levels of calcium, it helps the development of the skeletal system while reducing cholesterol and fat levels in arteries.
2- Coriander : This annual herb is good for the digestive system and prevents stomach gas. It has several anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce the symptoms of arthritis while eliminating toxins. It also helps secrete insulin and lower sugar levels in the body, which makes it highly beneficial for people with diabetes.
Photo: File photo/EL UNIVERSAL
3- Charales : This type of fish is considered a super food due to the high amount of minerals it contains: Potassium, iron, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, iodine, and vitamins A, B, C, and D. It helps the proper functioning of the nervous system and stimulates digestion while controlling cholesterol levels.
4- Amaranthus : This is perhaps one of the easiest to obtain and constitutes a rich source of vegetable protein, as well as vitamins A, B, B1, B3, and C. It also helps in the prevention of colon cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, kidney failure, and hypertension.
5- Chapulines : These little grasshoppers are rich in protein and fiber. They are also ideal for people with cardiovascular problems since they serve as blood pressure regulators.
6- Jumiles/Chumiles : They are small stink bugs that are high in minerals such as calcium, iron, selenium, niacin, and thiamin. Furthermore, they are very rich in protein and stimulate digestion. It also has pain-relieving properties.
Photo: Alma Rodríguez Ayala/EL UNIVERSAL
7- Tuna : Not to be confused with tuna fish, “tunas” are the fruit of the Opuntia ficus-indica cactus, also called “nopal.” It is very rich in vitamins and minerals and is known to improve the function of the kidneys while relieving minor aches caused by gastric ulcers. Furthermore, this super food reduces triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the body.
8- Cherimoya : Also spelled “chirimoya,” this fruit is rich in vitamins A, B, and C, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and potassium. Due to its high potassium content, it helps to regulate blood pressure and reduces cholesterol levels.
9- Camote : Also called “sweet potato.” This root vegetable is known to eliminate toxins due to its high levels of glutathione, a substance which facilitates the elimination of free radicals. It can relieve pain since it has a high amount of polyphenols. It is highly recommended during pregnancy, since it is also rich in folic acid.
Photo: Gonzalo Ibáñez/EL UNIVERSAL
10- Xoconoxtle : It contains high levels of vitamin A, which stimulates the production of red blood cells and strengthens the immune system. It also serves to control sugar levels in the organism and has anti-cancer properties.
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