Kale Is Out & THIS Superfood Is Now No. 1 In America

Image by Alita Ong / Stocksy

Kale is SO 2018. The previous reigning champion favored by nutritionists and green-smoothie lovers alike has fallen from the list of the top 10 superfoods, according to a survey of 1,342 registered dietitians. What food could possibly be super enough to replace this beloved leafy green? The answer lies in some serious probiotic power.

The survey, which evaluated foods on qualities such as benefit to overall health and anti-inflammatory effects, found that fermented foods snagged the first position. They were followed by a stellar lineup of other superfoods worth seeking out, listed below:

  1. Fermented foods
  2. Avocado
  3. Seeds
  4. Ancient grains
  5. Exotic fruit (e.g., acai, goldenberries)
  6. Blueberries
  7. Beets
  8. Nuts
  9. Coconut products
  10. Nondairy milks

Lucky for us, we have plenty of opportunities to include the No. 1 superfood in our diet with sources like sauerkraut, yogurt, kombucha, miso, tempeh, cheese, and kimchi.

Why are these foods so nutrient-dense and beneficial, you ask? That would be the fermentation process. For food to go from raw to fermented, microorganisms (like good bacteria or yeast) are added, which converts carbohydrates to alcohol or other acid and preserves a high nutrient content.

Not only is food preserved through this process, but it's effectively transformed into your gut's best friend. Fermented foods can keep your digestion on track, boost immunity, and decrease much-dreaded inflammation. With recent research showing links between our microbiome and serious diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer's, it's no wonder these gut-friendly foods are gaining popularity.

While we're not ready to say goodbye to kale, it may be time to up our fermented food intake, which has never been easier with so many great kombucha options readily available like Evolution Fresh and KeVita. If you're feeling the DIY vibe, you can even make your own fermented foods at home.


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